Marbella
Marbella is one of the crown jewels of the Costa del Sol, offering a perfect mix of luxury, tradition, and stunning coastal living. Known for its upscale amenities, vibrant lifestyle, and international appeal, Marbella is a prime destination for both visitors and residents. In this guide, we’ll explore Marbella’s neighborhoods, schools, sports, shopping, restaurants, nightlife, beach clubs, and property market.
Neighborhoods in Marbella
Old Town Marbella
The historic heart of Marbella is a maze of narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses, orange trees, and boutique shops. Highlights include Plaza de los Naranjos and a variety of traditional tapas bars
Golden Mile
Stretching between Marbella’s center and Puerto Banús, the Golden Mile is synonymous with luxury living. This area boasts some of the most opulent villas, beachfront mansions, and five-star hotels.
Puerto Banús
A hotspot for nightlife, luxury yachts, and designer shopping, Puerto Banús is the epitome of Marbella’s glamorous side.
Nueva Andalucía
Known as "The Golf Valley," Nueva Andalucía offers a mix of family-friendly villas and golf-oriented properties.
San Pedro de Alcántara
A quieter, more affordable area, San Pedro is perfect for families seeking residential comforts without compromising on proximity to Marbella’s amenities.
Sierra Blanca and La Zagaleta
For exclusivity and breathtaking mountain views, these areas feature some of the most prestigious properties in Marbella.
Schools in Marbella
Marbella is home to top-tier educational institutions that cater to international families. These schools offer a range of curriculums to suit diverse educational needs. There are approximately 10 prominent international schools in the city and surrounding areas, each offering unique features and programs. These include schools with British, German, French, Swedish, and Spanish bilingual curriculums.
Swans International School
Follows the British curriculum and offers a well-rounded education from early years to A-Levels
Aloha College Marbella
Offers both the British and IB curricula, making it a favorite among international families.
Laude San Pedro International College
Located in San Pedro de Alcántara, it provides bilingual education and a global perspective.
The British School of Marbella
Deutsche Schule Málaga
Catering to the German-speaking community, this school blends German and Spanish educational traditions.
Svenska Skolan Marbella
Sports in Marbella
Golf
Marbella is home to an impressive array of golf courses, making it a top destination for golf enthusiasts on the Costa del Sol. Here’s a list of notable golf courses in Marbella and its surroundings:
Santa Clara Golf Marbella
Known for its parkland-style course with fast greens and strategic bunkers.
Offers a mix of pine forest and sea views, featuring challenging par 3 holes.
A scenic course with beautiful mountain and sea views, designed by Javier Arana
Renowned for its beautifully maintained course and challenging layout.
Known for its stunning scenery.
A popular choice for its design.
Shopping in Marbella
From designer boutiques to local markets, Marbella is a shopper’s paradise.
Luxury Shopping
Puerto Banús houses flagship stores for brands like Louis Vuitton and Gucci.
High-Street Options
La Cañada Shopping Center offers a wide variety of popular brands.
Restaurants in Marbella
Marbella’s culinary scene combines Andalusian flavors with international influences. Here are some of our top picks.
A must-visit in Marbella for both locals and tourists. Perfect for celebrations or indulgent moments, it offers two tasting menus featuring international flavors and innovative techniques. Known for its award-winning cheesecake.
Barbillón Marbella
A restaurant and beach club in Guadalmina Baja with stunning sea views and an exclusive vibe. The menu blends Mediterranean cuisine, exquisite rice dishes, premium seafood, and signature cocktails. Ideal for enjoying by the Mediterranean.
GAIA
Located in Puente Romano, this restaurant celebrates Greek cuisine. Using fresh ingredients, it serves dishes like sea bream carpaccio and oven-roasted goat in a setting inspired by Mediterranean nature.
Nintai
A 12-seat gem by Michelin-starred chef Marcos Granda, offering high-end Japanese cuisine. The 'itamae' showcases masterful knife skills, and the sushi menus, Zen and ENSō, are pure culinary poetry.
El Pimpi Marbella
Opening in 2024 at Puente Romano, this iconic Andalusian restaurant celebrates Southern Spanish flavors. From Iberian ham and artisanal cheeses to traditional meats and seafood, every dish is a tribute to local gastronomy.
Casanis Bistrot
Located in Marbella's charming old town, this French-inspired bistro blends creative cuisine with Belgian influences. A long-time favorite, it shines with dishes like prawn and langoustine croquettes and sole meunière. Perfect for an elegant meal in a lively setting.
Cipriani
Located in the lush gardens of Puente Romano, Cipriani brings the charm of Venetian haute cuisine to Marbella. With its elegant ambiance and signature dishes like the iconic carpaccio 'alla Cipriani,' it's a must-visit for lovers of Italian dining.
Coya
A vibrant hotspot on Marbella's Golden Mile, Coya blends traditional Peruvian flavors with Japanese, Chinese, and Spanish influences. Its ceviches, especially the tuna chifa, and signature pisco cocktails make it a favorite among international food lovers.
La Cabane
An iconic Mediterranean beach club blending luxury and style, La Cabane features cuisine by chef Dani García, décor by Dolce & Gabbana, and vibrant energy from Mosh. Perfect for poolside indulgence or seaside dining with spectacular views.
Marbella Club Hotel
A timeless hotspot for the Costa del Sol's elite, the Marbella Club Hotel offers charming dining options like its beach club or terrace. Don’t miss the crispy whole grain chicken, followed by coffee and a gin tonic for a perfect afternoon.
Playa Padre
This lively beach club delivers dining with a show. With fire acrobatics and live performances on the sand, enjoy an eclectic menu featuring sushi, meats, pastas, and tartars in a festive atmosphere.
Sea Grill
Located in Puente Romano Beach Resort, Sea Grill offers fresh Mediterranean cuisine with stunning sea views. Enjoy expertly grilled seafood like prawns, lobster, or sea bream, paired with fine wine for a perfect seaside dining experience.
Tragabuches
Dani García’s tribute to Andalusian cuisine, Tragabuches combines modern culinary trends with local traditions. Highlights include grilled lobster and the iconic Málaga-style mollete for breakfast. Family-friendly with a kids’ area, it’s perfect for long, relaxed meals.
Soleo
An essential beachfront spot in Marbella, Soleo serves a mix of traditional dishes, like paella and sardine espetos, alongside international favorites. With beautiful sea views, it’s the ideal place to savor the coastal vibe.
Areia
A celebration of Mediterranean living, Areia offers exquisite dishes like wild grilled sole, Mont Royal pigeon, and Málaga white shrimp. Its warm ambiance and refined tasting menu (€120) make it a must-visit for fine dining enthusiasts.
Leña
Dani García’s iconic steakhouse, Leña, is a haven for meat lovers on the Costa del Sol. Known for its world-class interior design and standout dishes like tender chuletón and a flavorful burger, it’s a culinary gem in Marbella.
Mamzel at Finca Besaya
A hotspot for celebrities, Mamzel combines global cuisine with an electrifying Dinner Show. With Mediterranean roots and Argentine grill influences, its menu and revamped performances make it a unique dining experience.
Nightlife in Marbella
Experience exclusive venues like Pangea, La Sala and Olivia Valere. Enjoy cocktails with sea views at venues like Amàre Beach.
Beach Clubs in Marbella
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La Sala by the Sea
A stylish beach destination in Puerto Banús, La Sala by the Sea offers a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere inspired by Thailand. With top DJs, dancers, saxophonists, and percussionists, it transforms into a lively hotspot on weekends, guaranteeing a fun and energetic experience. -
Naô Pool Club
Located in Nueva Andalucía, Naô Pool Club is one of Marbella’s most fashionable pool clubs. With live DJ sets, exclusive cocktails, and an electric atmosphere, it promises unforgettable summer parties and a vibrant social scene by the pool. -
Trocadero Arena
Trocadero Arena is a beachfront club and restaurant in Río Real, east of Marbella, that maintains the charm of a traditional beach bar. Known for its stunning décor and featured in lifestyle publications, it’s a magical spot open year-round, offering a unique experience by the sea. -
Ocean Club
Located in Puerto Banús, Ocean Club is a 9,000 m² space offering style, luxury, and glamour. The epitome of what a modern beach club should be, it combines top-notch service, a lively atmosphere, and breathtaking views for an unforgettable day by the sea. -
Nikki Beach
Situated in Elviria, Nikki Beach blends American positivity with European chic. Known for its luxurious beach life, international cuisine, glamorous parties, and cosmopolitan crowd, it’s the ultimate destination for music lovers and sun-seekers alike. -
Laplage Mistral
In Puerto Banús, Laplage Mistral is a family favorite, offering a relaxing yet fun atmosphere. With shallow waters ideal for children, massages, water sports, and delicious food and drinks served on sunbeds, it’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy with loved ones. -
The Siroko Beach Club
Located in Marbella Este, The Siroko Beach Club offers something for everyone. With a true Spanish charm and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s perfect for families, featuring beach loungers, umbrellas, and drinks. Kids can enjoy the inflatable castle in the family-friendly garden, while adults can savor excellent meals on the beach or in the restaurant. During summer, the beach club comes alive with DJ sets, live music, and dancing. -
Trocadero Petit Playa
Nestled on Marbella’s Golden Mile near Trocadero Playa, Trocadero Petit Playa is the ideal family beach club. With its rustic charm, tropical cocktails, and stunning sea views, it’s a favorite spot for relaxing beach holidays. The family-friendly environment includes a supervised play area where kids can engage in creative activities, making it a perfect choice for those traveling with children. -
Cocoa Beach Marbella
Situated on the beautiful Cabopino Beach, Cocoa Beach Marbella offers a glamorous beach experience. Lounge by the sea with a refreshing cocktail, book a bed with stunning ocean views, and enjoy delicious dishes at the exclusive restaurant. The beach club also features DJ beats and vibrant summer dance nights on the sand, ensuring the ultimate beach getaway -
Bono Beach
Located in El Rosario, Bono Beach underwent a complete renovation last year, blending the traditional charm of Spanish beach bars with the elegant style of Tulum, Mexico. The beautiful wooden beds, large enough for two or four people, and the palapa-style umbrellas set the scene just steps from the white sandy beach. With its breathtaking views of one of Marbella’s most beautiful beaches, Bono Beach offers a captivating atmosphere that engages all the senses.
Property Market in Marbella
Marbella’s property market offers a range of options from luxury villas to golf-side apartments.
Luxury Villas
Areas like Sierra Blanca and Golden Mile host some of the most opulent properties
Apartments
From beachfront residences to city-center options, there’s something for everyone.
