If you’re visiting Malaga, Marbella might be a perfect day trip for you to take. Keep reading if this tiny stunning town is on your bucket list.
Malaga is a gorgeous city where you can spend a few incredible days, but it’s also a great base for many lovely day trips to different towns in Andalusia.
If you’re searching for an amazing little day trip from Malaga, look no further than the picturesque coastal town of Marbella. Marbella offers a perfect blend of cultural charm and sun-soaked relaxation, so you’ll get to enjoy its old town, as well as the beach. Keep reading to find out why is Marbella so special!
This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you.
MALAGA TO MARBELLA DISTANCE – WHERE IS MARBELLA?
Marbella is a small resort town located on the Costa del Sol in southern Spain. Costa del Sol is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. People come to enjoy the beaches, vibrant nightlife, golf courses, and cultural attractions.
Marbella is situated approximately 58 kilometers southwest of Malaga. Due to its close proximity, Marbella is easily accessible by car, bus, or even train. Because of that, it’s really an ideal destination for a day trip.
WHY VISIT MARBELLA?
Marbella has many incredible things to offer and it’s absolutely worth the visit. Here’s some of my favorite reasons why you should visit Marbella.
Firstly, Marbella is an interesting mix of history and modern luxury. If you’re the person who enjoys exploring old towns with narrow cobbled streets, this is the town for you. Marbella will give you the breathtaking experience of its white and blue Old Town engulfed in flowers.
If you don’t care for history and prefer luxury and modern amenities, Marbella is a perfect choice for you too. This resort town is full of great hotels in which you can enjoy your holiday to the fullest. You can also do lots of shopping in various luxury and local stores.
Secondly, Marbella is a perfect choice for anyone looking for great beaches. Many Spaniards, as well as other Europeans come to Marbella each summer for a great summer holiday.
Marbella has stunning beaches with golden sands and clear waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Some of the most famous beaches include Playa de la Fontanilla, Playa de Nagüeles, and Puerto Banús Beach.
Finally, Marbella is perfect for you if you like outdoor activities. Marbella is a haven for golf enthusiasts, with numerous world-class golf courses in the area. Beyond the beaches and golf courses, you can also try a variety of outdoor activities. Most popular are hiking, horseback riding, and water sports like jet-skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding.
HOW TO GET FROM MALLAGA TO MARBELLA – 3 WAYS
Getting to Marbella from Malaga is a breeze, thanks to the town’s convenient transportation options. Here’s the three easiest ways to reach this little coastal town!
Malaga to Marbella by car
If you have a car, you’ll have the easiest time getting to Marbella. It’ will take you around 50 minutes (59.5 km) via AP-7 highway to get from Malaga to Marbella. There’s a free parking called “Parking Miraflores” where you can park your car. From there you have a 15-minute walk to the Old Town of Marbella.
Malaga to Marbella by autobus
If you don’t have a car, don’t stress. You can still reach Marbella in a quick and easy way. From Malaga’s main autobus station, there are several buses throughout the day that drive the Malaga – Marbella route. The ride takes around 45-50 minutes and the round-trip costs 15 euros. Pretty affordable and effective! This is the option we’ve chosen and it was excellent.
Malaga to Marbella by train
Equally easy and maybe even more enjoyable, you can take a train ride from Malaga to Marbella. The train ride is 45 minutes, and it’s 15-20 euros round trip. You can get tickets at the train station or online.
HOTELS IN MARBELLA – WHERE TO STAY IF YOU’RE THERE FOR LONGER
If you’re thinking of visiting for more than a day, here are some accommodation recommendations. Marbella can get quite crowded during summer since it’s a resort town mainly for holidaying, so keep that in mind while choosing accommodation.
A nice hotel with modern amenities might offer more privacy and relaxation if you don’t like crowds. If you like swimming at public beaches, accommodation doesn’t have to be too important to you.
These are some of the most expensive and luxurious hotels in Marbella:
These are more affordable but still excellent options:
WHAT TO DO AND SEE IN MARBELLA IN ONE DAY
This blog post is bringing you a list of things and places you shouldn’t miss on your day trip to Marbella. Use this travel plan to see every little corner of Marbella and enjoy this tiny coastal town.
EXPLORE THE OLD TOWN
Marbella’s Old Town is the most beautiful part of Marbella you’ll get to see. The gorgeous narrow streets, white walls and buildings, and lots of color and flowers make this Old Town very unique. There are several locations in the Old Town you need to explore:
Plaza de los Naranjos
The “Orange Square” is a picturesque square located in the heart of Marbella’s Old Town and it’s one of the most iconic and charming spots in the city, known for its vibrant atmosphere. The square is surrounded by beautiful buildings featuring traditional Andalusian architecture, as well as many orange trees, hence the name.
At the center there are quite a few restaurants and cafes. There, you can grab a drink or a quick bite. Surrounding the square, you’ll find several historical landmarks. Some of them are the Town Hall, the Chapel of Santiago, and the Casa del Corregidor. Overall, this was an incredible place for relaxation and I would highly recommend stopping there and enjoying the surroundings.
Calle Carmen
Calle Carmen is a charming street characterized by its narrow, winding cobblestone pathway. As you stroll along Calle Carmen, you’ll notice the colorful facades of the buildings, decorated with vibrant flowers and gorgeous tiles. This stunning street is great for taking photos because the surroundings are charming and unique!
Along Calle Carmen, explore other gorgeous streets in Marbella such as Calle Nueva, Calle Ancha, and Calle Gloria.
Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación church
This Marbella church is definitely one of the prettiest churches I’ve seen! The stunning white and yellow church is one of the main landmarks in Marbella and you’ll find it near the central square. The church dates back to the 17th century and to this day it still holds regular religious services.
Santo Cristo de Marbella chapel
The Santo Cristo de Marbella Chapel is a small, historic chapel located in the Old Town. The chapel characterized by whitewashed walls, simple lines, and a humble facade. Situated on a small square, it’s a picturesque building worthy of a visit!
GO SHOPPING
Once you’ve explored the landmarks, stroll through the Old Town and discover some of the best stores and boutiques in Marbella. There are several luxury stores scattered along several Marbella streets just waiting for you.
If you’re not into luxury, there are local stores with hand-made products where you can buy souvenirs and clothes. Calle Nueva, Calle Gloria, and Calle Ancha have artisan shops which will make you stop and see what they offer!
VISIT ALAMEDA PARK
Alameda Park is situated near the historic Old Town and it’s a must visit, especially during summer. The park is full of trees, shrubs, and flowers that provide shade and beauty throughout the year, and colorful sculptures and decorations make it even more special. I’ve fallen in love with the decorative benches in the park. Sitting on them seems as if you’re sitting on a piece of art!
You’ll find the park in between the Old Town and Marbella’s promenade, so use it as retreat where you can unwind and prepare yourself for a walk by the beach, or even a swim!
WALK ALONG THE BEACHSIDE PROMENADE
The Marbella beachside promenade, also named Paseo Marítimo, is a scenic coastal walkway that stretches along the shores of Marbella. Both locals and tourists enjoy spending time at the promenade – walking, biking, or just sitting at one of the many cafes situated near the beach. The promenade offers various fitness and recreation facilities, so if you’re an outdoorsy person you might love this part of Marbella the most!
The most popular beach at the promenade is beach Venus. Make sure you stop and admire the gorgeous sandy beach, or even take a dip if you’re visiting in the summer!
MARVEL AT THE CASTILLO DE MARBELLA
The Castillo de Marbella is a historic fortress located in the heart of Marbella’s Old Town. Because of its location, it’s easily accessible while you’re exploring the Old Town. It’s one of the city’s oldest structures and it reflects Marbella’s rich history, with elements dating back to the Moorish era during the 9th and 10th centuries.
There’s no possibility of entering the fortress as there are only remains left. Nonetheless, I still recommend visiting the walls and ruins to get some insight into what it once looked like!
VISIT PUERTO BANUS
Puerto Banús is a luxurious marina and resort town located close to Marbella. There, you can marvel at the luxurious yachts moored in the marina. You can also explore the designer boutiques and chic cafes that line the waterfront.
Most of Marbella’s luxury accommodations are located right there at Puerto Banús. If you feel like splurging on this day trip definitely check it out! If you’re on a budget at least go for a stroll and enjoy the gorgeous views of the white buildings and the gorgeous sea.
