Marbella sights, the top 5 most fun places in Marbella!
Discover Marbella, Spain
Marbella is a charming coastal town in Andalusia, Spain, offering a perfect blend of warm temperatures, beautiful beaches and rich history. Located at the foot of the impressive Sierra Blanca mountain range, Marbella also invites long walks in nature. These mountains house archaeological remains of Phoenician, Carthaginian and Roman settlements, while Moorish rule lasted until 1485, when the Spaniards regained control.
Over the centuries, as a result of different rulers and cultures, Marbella has developed a unique diversity of character. The old center itself already offers an abundance of sights, each representing a piece of history.
1. The old town of Marbella (center)
Discover the rich history of Marbella’s old town, where fragments of history surround you. Here you can admire the old city hall, built in the 16th century in the Renaissance style. The town hall is located in Plaza Naranjos and features a chapel with beautiful frescoes. The old city walls, with remnants from Arab times, can also be found here.
Besides the square with its sights, you can also discover the remains of an Arab castle, known as “Murallas del Castillo,” right in the center of Marbella.
2. Puerto Banus
Puerto Banus, Marbella’s prestigious marina, is located about 6 kilometers from the old city center. This impressive port was originally built in 1970 and expanded in the 1990s, despite opposition from environmentalists. With incredible prices of up to 500,000 euros per square meter and daily rents of 4,000 euros, Puerto Banus is known as one of the most exclusive marinas in all of Europe. It is undoubtedly a haven for the jet set.
This port attracts mostly wealthy Arabs, who dock their luxurious yachts here. From Puerto Banus you can make your way to the affluent part of Marbella, where beautiful golf courses and opulent villas can be found. It is the place to spot the jet set!
3. Tip: Discover Marbella by bicycle
Highly recommended: The most ideal way to discover the different sides of the city is with a fun Marbella bike tour. An enthusiastic guide takes you to both the modern Marbella with for example the marina Puerto Banus, but also along the historical sites with Moorish influences in the old part of town. Because some attractions are a bit further apart and the city has excellent bike paths, this is the perfect way to discover Marbella.
4. Climb the La Concha mountain
For centuries, the La Concha mountain has stood tall above Marbella. Though not exceptionally high, measuring only 1200 meters, its lack of vegetation and proximity to the coast make climbing this rock a truly unique experience. Embark on the journey from ‘Refugio de Juanar,’ and it will take you approximately three hours to reach the summit, followed by a two-hour descent. Due to its close proximity to the coast, you’ll encounter the most breathtaking panoramas and scenic views along the way, including the Cruz de Juanar viewpoint.
5. Canyoning in Guadalmina (23 km)
Guadalmina, a ravine near Marbella, is a perfect place for the exciting sport of canyoning. Here you will find a landscape similar to the mountains surrounding Marbella, with bare whitish limestone rocks. The water is clear and pale blue, creating an inviting environment for an unforgettable day. Best of all, canyoneering in this gorge is also suitable for beginners, so there’s no need to fear intense waterfalls or strong currents. Embrace this adrenaline-filled adventure and have the time of your life in the sun. (For more information and reservations for canyoning).
