Things to do in 

Marbella

Marbella glistens under a generous Spanish sun, an urban beach paradise with hidden depths. The city's old town subtly reveals its moorish past while glittering Puerto Banus brings a touch of glamour to the Mediterranean shoreline. Whether exploring the Andalusian architecture or basking on golden beaches, the true essence of Marbella shines through. A generous range of things to do in Marbella can suit any mood – sampling local tapas, storm watching around Alameda Park's Dali statues, or getting lost in the maze-like Soho art district. As each season unfolds, Marbella embodies new rhythms, new possibilities.

Explore Marbella off the beaten path

Seek alternative things to do that slip past the beach clubs, following quiet rhythms—taste, listen, and climb into places locals use when the crowds drift elsewhere.

Cultural experiences: Book a table at Tablao Flamenco Ana María in the Old Town and feel the room tighten when the palmas and guitar take off late evening. Earlier in the day, drop by D.Oliva on Calle Nueva for a relaxed olive oil tasting that maps Andalusia in a few sips.

Small museums and galleries: Step into the Ralli Museum on the Golden Mile for bright Latin American art without the fuss or ticket lines. Back in the Old Town, the Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo tucks rare prints into a quiet former hospital. If you’re in San Pedro Alcántara, Es.Arte Gallery shows smart contemporary work in a calm, white space.

Less crowded scenic viewpoints: Walk up to Ermita del Calvario and watch the tiled roofs and sea line up in soft light toward sunset. If you’ve got time, head to Mirador del Juanar above Ojén late afternoon for a wide sweep of coast and mountains.

Shop for local products & souvenirs: Wander the Mercado Municipal de Marbella for vacuum‑packed jamón, olives, and local goat cheese to take back. For a tidy bundle of cured meats, step into La Casa del Jamón on Avenida Ricardo Soriano. Sweeten things with spiced nuts and soft turrón from Sabor a España in the Old Town, perfect for the flight home.

Popular neighbourhoods

Delving into Marbella's diverse neighbourhoods offers invaluable insights into the city's soul, allowing you to experience it more richly.

Old Town: Delve into the heart of Marbella by strolling through its prettily winding, narrow streets. The whitewashed houses adorned with gorgeous hanging flower baskets envelop you in a warm, friendly atmosphere.

Puerto Banús: Explore this marina, often frequented by the rich and the famous, and soak in the lavish lifestyle. Luxurious yachts bob gently on the water as shopaholics relish in designer boutiques.

Golden Mile: Enjoy a leisurely walk down this palm-lined, four-mile stretch that links Old Town with Puerto Banús. Upscale villienda mansions, boutiques, and stunning ocean views dazzle visitors along the way.

Nueva Andalucía: It's a golfer's paradise, with rolling greens featuring some of the region's premium courses. The neighbourhood seamlessly merges leisure with landscape.

San Pedro de Alcántara: Offering a charming mix of old and new, this neighbourhood lets you unwind on its pristine beaches or indulge in its bustling gastronomic scene.

Things to do in Marbella by season

Spring: Wander orange-scented lanes in the Old Town, tee off on lush fairways and watch Semana Santa processions wind past whitewashed chapels. Beach clubs reopen with mellow afternoons that suit couples and families easing into the season.

Summer: Plan unhurried beach days and late-night paseos along the promenade, with San Juan bonfires lighting up June. Feria de San Bernabé brings rides, music and fiestas, while luxury travellers book shaded cabanas and sunset tables.

Fall: Swim in warm seas, hike La Concha under crisp skies and linger over seafood lunches once the crowds thin. Seniors often find this the best time to visit Marbella for gentle temperatures and quieter beaches.

Winter: Count on clear days for Old Town tapas crawls and day trips to Ronda, then wrap up for festive lights and the Three Kings parade in early January. Christmas in Marbella feels low-key and sunny, perfect for easy strolling.

All summer, Starlite lights up the Nagüeles Quarry with big-name concerts, while June’s Feria de San Bernabé fills town with traditional dress, parades and casetas. Noche de San Juan sparks midnight swims on June 23, and October celebrates the Feria de San Pedro Alcántara with fairgrounds and flamenco.