Marbella: from the exclusive Puerto Banús to the charming old town

Marbella ranks as one of the most celebrated towns along the entire Costa del Sol coastline.

Situated approximately one hour’s drive from Malaga, this glamorous resort has cultivated a longstanding reputation for exclusivity and sophistication.

World-renowned nightlife, distinguished international visitors and millionaire residents all point towards one defining characteristic: luxury.

Why Marbella attracts the rich and famous

The town functions as a genuine playground for wealthy travellers and celebrities alike.

More than 20 championship golf courses dot the surrounding landscape, including prestigious venues such as Marbella Golf and Country Club, Los Naranjos Golf Club and, further afield, Valderrama Golf Club.

Five-star hotels provide accommodation for discerning guests, while Michelin-starred restaurants deliver exceptional dining experiences throughout the resort.

Likewise, the Golden Mile, which stretches 6.4 kilometres (somewhat misleading!) westward from Marbella towards Puerto Banús, harbours some of Europe’s most luxurious villas and hotels. These include the Hotel Don Pepe Gran Meliá, the Hotel Marbella Club and the Hotel Puente Romano.

An impressive collection of designer boutiques and luxury shops completes Marbella’s appeal to affluent visitors.

Exploring Marbella Old Town and historic centre

However, most visitors to Marbella head first to the historic Casco Antiguo (Old Town). Curiously, it preserves nearly the identical street layout it possessed during the 16th century.

Two historical neighbourhoods, Barrio Alto and Barrio Nuevo, form the oldest residential quarters.

Plaza de los Naranjos (literally Orange Square, named for the orange trees planted there) serves as the Old Town’s main focal point.

This charming square showcases the spectacular town hall, the Casa del Corregidor (a historic magistrate’s house), and the Chapel of Santiago.

Additional buildings worth visiting include the Church of Santa María de la Encarnación, the Casa del Roque and the atmospheric remains of the Arabic castle and defensive walls.

Puerto Banús: Marbella’s exclusive marina and shopping destination

Puerto Banús, located on the western side of Marbella, represents a major draw for those seeking a taste of Mediterranean luxury.

This famous marina features an exclusive leisure and shopping complex where spectacular yachts and speedboats float alongside the quayside.

Top-of-the-range Porsches, Lamborghinis and Rolls-Royces regularly appear parked along the harbour front, creating an impressive display of automotive wealth.

Designer boutiques, upmarket restaurants and fashionable bars surround the marina, making Puerto Banús a destination in itself.

Best beaches in Marbella for watersports and relaxation

That said, many visitors head to Marbella primarily for its exceptional beaches.

Playa El Cable extends for approximately two kilometres along Marbella’s eastern coastline, offering dark volcanic sand and excellent facilities.

This popular urban beach takes its name from the telegraph cable that once connected Spain with North Africa, landing at this very spot.

The promenade running alongside Playa El Cable features palm trees, well-maintained gardens and numerous restaurants serving fresh Mediterranean cuisine.

Banana Beach, located at the eastern end of Playa El Cable, draws considerable crowds during peak season with its vibrant atmosphere and array of beach clubs.

Both Banana Beach and the nearby Funny Beach (which takes its unusual name from a former karting track that once operated at this location) host several watersport centres where you can try jet skiing, kitesurfing and numerous other aquatic activities.

Here, traditional chiringuito beach bars line the shoreline alongside luxury beach clubs and sophisticated waterfront dining establishments.

Marbella nature and the Artola dunes

For a completely different beach experience, the Artola Dunes (Dunas de Artola) near Cabopino offer a protected natural environment between Marbella and Mijas Costa.

This designated natural monument features striking sand dunes covered with native vegetation, creating a landscape more reminiscent of North Africa than the typically developed Costa del Sol.

Playa de Cabopino, which fronts the dunes, provides a quieter, more unspoilt alternative to Marbella’s busier urban beaches.

The area attracts nature lovers and those seeking tranquillity, with wooden walkways protecting the fragile dune ecosystem whilst allowing visitors access to the beach.

How to get to Marbella from Malaga city

Travelling to Marbella without your own vehicle requires some planning, although several options are available.

The most practical public transport route involves taking the Cercanías commuter train from Malaga city centre to Fuengirola, a journey lasting approximately 45 minutes.

From Fuengirola, you’ll need to continue by bus or taxi for an additional half-hour to reach Marbella.

Alternatively, direct buses operate from Malaga’s main bus station, while private transfers and car hire provide more flexible options for exploring the Costa del Sol.