- Must visit
Museo Ralli
International contemporary art museum with strong Latin American and European collections, set in a quiet gardened area near the coast.
Sunny Marbella is often known as the playground of the wealthy, particularly during summer months when the number of luxury yachts moored in the marina increase significantly and many of the town's Middle Eastern property owners and film stars are in residence. Even the mega popstar Prince owned a villa in the town for a while, yet the pretty Old Town still remains unspoilt and is a popular Andalucia visitor attraction. Regular, scheduled flights to Malaga and onwards to Marbella are available with a number of airlines throughout the year, as the Costa del Sol is renowned for its warm, sunny climate.
Malaga-Costa del Sol is the main Marbella airport, located just over 30 miles distance from the town. Travellers will need to take a cab or shuttle bus to Marbella, or hire their own car.
There are Increased numbers of flights into Malaga Airport during the summer season, due to its immense popularity with vacation makers and property owners located in America, the Middle East, and Africa. However, dozens of airlines offer regular flights to Marbella via Malaga Airport throughout the entire year, including Ryanair, TUI, British Airways, Lufthansa, and Air Baltic.
Malaga Airport is the fourth busiest in Spain, offering links to 20 of Spain's major cities and more than 60 countries around the world. This makes it very easy to find affordable flights to Marbella on the dates and times preferred.
Keen golfers will be particularly impressed by the courses in and around the Marbella region, the local cuisine is also excellent, with fresh fish dishes on the menu in restaurants and tapas bars. The resort's beaches are fantastic, and visitors seeking a quieter, lesser known beach will find that Playa de la Bajadilla ticks all their boxes and offers some of the best freshly caught fish dishes available. Mountaineers and adventure seekers will adore the Sierra Blanca mountains, located just a couple of miles outside the city. These mountain ranges offer plenty of challenges for keen climbers and hikers. It is possible to catch an intercity bus from Malaga Airport to Marbella, however, travellers need to be aware that the coastal Renfe train terminates at Fuengirola and does not complete the journey to Marbella.
Discover the best of Marbella — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Marbella trip today.
International contemporary art museum with strong Latin American and European collections, set in a quiet gardened area near the coast.
Municipal engraving museum in a historic building, known for Spanish graphic art and works by major 20th-century artists.
Museum on Roman villas and baths at Río Verde, offering archaeological remains that reveal Marbella’s ancient coastal settlement.
Marbella’s iconic old town square, lined with orange trees and historic buildings, perfect for atmosphere, photos, and a heritage walk.
Elegant pedestrian avenue connecting the old town and seafront, famous for Dalí sculptures, palms, and easy central strolling.
Long seafront promenade ideal for walking and cycling, linking beaches, parks, and neighborhoods with constant Mediterranean views.
A chilled tomato soup from Andalusia with olive oil, garlic and bread. A Marbella staple in hot weather, often topped with egg and jamón.
Small fried fish, often anchovies or whitebait, lightly battered and served by the sea. A classic Costa del Sol tapa tied to local fishing traditions.
Fresh anchovies marinated in vinegar, garlic and parsley. Popular all along the Málaga coast and prized for the quality of local catch.
Historic old-town restaurant known for refined Andalusian cooking, seafood and a polished classic setting with a long local reputation.
Traditional tapas bar in Marbella’s old quarter, valued for local specialties, cured meats and an authentic casual atmosphere.
Popular beachside chiringuito famed for espetos, fried fish and rice dishes in a relaxed seafront atmosphere.
Marbella is pricier than many Spanish cities, with higher hotel and dining costs in tourist areas, though local buses and simple meals remain manageable.
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service; round up taxi fares; small change is fine in cafes.
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