Marbella has long been one of the most popular destinations on the Costa del Sol, but this stylish seaside city offers much more than sun, sea and beaches. Explore the charming Marbella Old Town with its narrow streets and lively squares, the luxury marina of Puerto Banús, excellent golf courses, designer shopping, local markets and the Mediterranean promenade. Nature lovers and active travellers can also enjoy mountain walks, water sports and memorable day trips from Marbella to places such as Málaga, Ronda and Granada.
In this complete guide, we share the best things to do in and around Marbella, including attractions, activities and day trips. Whether you are planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday or a golf trip, StayatSas Marbella in Nueva Andalucía puts Puerto Banús, Marbella’s top attractions and many of the highlights of the Costa del Sol within easy reach.
Explore Marbella from StayatSas Marbella. Our holiday apartment in Nueva Andalucía is close to Puerto Banús, beaches, golf courses, restaurants and many of the best things to do in Marbella and on the Costa del Sol.
Map of Marbella & the Costa del Sol
Use the map below to see where the top attractions, beaches, nature areas and day trip destinations around Marbella are located. From StayatSas Marbella in Nueva Andalucía, many of the highlights of Marbella and the Costa del Sol are within easy reach.
Top Attractions in Marbella
Marbella offers much more than luxury and beaches. Its combination of a historic Old Town, Mediterranean promenade and the famous Puerto Banús marina makes it one of the most varied destinations on the Costa del Sol.
Marbella Old Town (Casco Antiguo)
Marbella Old Town, also known as Casco Antiguo, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Marbella. As soon as you leave the modern shopping streets behind, you enter a maze of narrow, flower-filled streets, whitewashed Andalusian houses and charming squares. Take a few hours to wander without a fixed route, as some of the best boutiques, tapas bars and hidden terraces are tucked away in the smaller streets.
At the heart of Marbella Old Town is Plaza de los Naranjos, a picturesque square lined with orange trees, restaurants and cafés. It is a lovely place to stop for lunch or a drink, especially in the evening when the square has a lively, typically Spanish atmosphere.
A short walk away are the remains of the Murallas del Castillo, Marbella’s old city walls dating back to the Moorish period. Although only part of the fortifications remains, the walls offer an interesting glimpse into Marbella’s long history
Also worth visiting is the Iglesia de la Encarnación, one of the best-known churches in Marbella Old Town. Its richly decorated interior and impressive altar make it well worth a short visit.
From the Old Town, walk towards Parque de la Alameda, a peaceful park with colourful flowers, fountains and shaded benches. From here, continue along the famous Avenida del Mar, a wide pedestrian promenade leading towards the Mediterranean. Along the avenue, you will find several bronze sculptures by Salvador Dalí and can easily continue towards Marbella’s seafront promenade and beach.
StayatSas TipCombine Marbella Old Town with a walk along Avenida del Mar and the Paseo Marítimo. Finish with lunch at Plaza de los Naranjos or a drink along the seafront.
Puerto Banús, Marbella
Puerto Banús is Marbella’s most famous luxury marina and one of the best-known places to visit on the Costa del Sol. Even if luxury shopping is not your thing, the marina is well worth visiting. Along the waterfront you will see impressive superyachts, luxury cars and some of Marbella’s most exclusive shops.
Around the harbour you will find the world's most famous designer shops, such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Dior, Hermès, Valentino, Dolce & Gabbana and many other luxury brands. Even if you don't want to buy anything, it is nice to stroll through the stylish shopping streets and look at the shop windows.
As well as all its luxury, Puerto Banús also has a cosy side. The promenade is lined with terraces, cocktail bars and restaurants where you can enjoy the view of the harbour. During the day, there’s a relaxed holiday atmosphere, whilst in the evening the area transforms into a lively hotspot with atmospheric lighting and cosy bars.
From Puerto Banús, you can follow the Paseo Marítimo towards Marbella, passing beaches, beach clubs and seafront restaurants along the way. The coastal route between Puerto Banús and Marbella is around 7 kilometres long, but you can easily walk just part of it and stop for lunch or a drink along the Mediterranean.
StayatSas TipStayatSas Marbella is only around a 20-minute walk or 5-minute drive from Puerto Banús. We especially love visiting the marina around sunset, when the atmosphere along the waterfront is at its best.
Paseo Marítimo Marbella, Seafront Promenade
The Paseo Marítimo is Marbella’s seafront promenade connecting Marbella with Puerto Banús and one of the best places for walking and cycling along the coast. During the day, walkers, runners and cyclists enjoy views across the Mediterranean, while in the evening the promenade becomes a lively place with terraces, restaurants and a relaxed atmosphere.
Along the promenade you will find countless cafés, ice cream parlours and restaurants where you can sit down for breakfast, lunch or dinner with a sea view. Along the way you will pass charming little beaches, palm trees and atmospheric squares. The boulevard is largely pedestrianised, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll or renting a bicycle.
A fun way to discover the surrounding area from the water is by hiring a boat in the port of Puerto Banús. You do not need a boating licence for this, and you can hire a boat for 1.5 hours for up to six people from around €80. Sail along the coast, take a refreshing dip in the sea or enjoy the views of Marbella and the luxury villas along the coast along the way.
- Kilometres of seafront promenade along the Mediterranean
- Ideal for walking, running and cycling
- Plenty of terraces, cafés and restaurants
- Beautiful route between Marbella and Puerto Banús
- Easy access to beaches along the way
- A beautiful place to watch the sunset
StayatSas TipFrom StayatSas Marbella, you can walk to Puerto Banús in around 20 minutes. From there, follow the Paseo Marítimo along the Mediterranean towards Marbella Old Town. It is one of our favourite ways to explore Marbella without taking the car.
Shopping in Marbella
From charming boutiques in Marbella Old Town to exclusive designer stores in Puerto Banús, Marbella is one of the best shopping destinations on the Costa del Sol. Whether you are looking for unique fashion, luxury brands, interior accessories or souvenirs, there is something for every style and budget.
Shopping in Marbella Old Town
Marbella Old Town is one of the best places for shopping in Marbella if you are looking for independent boutiques and local stores. As you wander through the narrow streets of Casco Antiguo, you will find charming boutiques, concept stores and small local shops surrounded by whitewashed Andalusian houses, lively terraces and picturesque squares.
One of our favourite shops is Salotto, a stylish boutique with a wonderful collection of bohemian and Ibiza-inspired clothing, accessories and home decor. Lovers of vintage fashion should definitely not miss Chic Vintage and Déjà Vu Vintage.
As well as these well-known shops, the old town is home to countless small fashion boutiques, jewellery shops, art galleries and delicatessens. It’s precisely the pleasure of wandering around without a plan that makes shopping in Casco Antiguo so enjoyable.
- Authentic Andalusian atmosphere
- Independent boutiques and concept stores
- Individuelle Boutiquen und Concept Stores
- Vintage and designer shops
- Art, jewellery and local delicacies
- Plenty of terraces for a break
Luxury Shopping in Marbella and Puerto Banús
Marbella and Puerto Banús are among the best destinations for luxury shopping on the Costa del Sol. From exclusive designer boutiques and luxury department stores to large modern shopping centres, Marbella offers everything from international fashion brands to more affordable shopping.
For shopping close to the marina, visit Marina Banús, a shopping centre next to Puerto Banús. Here you will find well-known international fashion brands including Zara, Massimo Dutti, Mango, H&M, Calzedonia and Oysho.
For luxury brands, El Corte Inglés Puerto Banús is another popular shopping destination, with fashion, jewellery, cosmetics, accessories and international designer labels under one roof.
For a larger shopping centre, head to La Cañada Shopping, one of Marbella’s main shopping centres with more than 150 shops, restaurants and a cinema.
- Luxury designer boutiques in Puerto Banús
- International brands at El Corte Inglés Puerto Banús
- Fashion stores at Marina Banús
- More than 150 shops at La Cañada Shopping
- Free parking at La Cañada
- Everything from affordable fashion to exclusive luxury
StayatSas TipStaying at StayatSas Marbella? Puerto Banús is only around a 20-minute walk or 5-minute drive from our apartment, making it easy to combine shopping with lunch at the marina or an evening in Puerto Banús. For boutique shopping, we recommend Marbella Old Town later in the afternoon, followed by a drink at Plaza de los Naranjos.
Outdoor Activities and Adventure in Marbella
Outdoor-Aktivitäten und Abenteuer in Marbella
Hiking La Concha in Marbella
Hiking La Concha is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Marbella. At 1,215 metres, this iconic mountain forms the dramatic backdrop to Marbella and offers spectacular views across the Costa del Sol, Gibraltar and, on a clear day, towards the coast of Morocco.
The hike is challenging and requires a good level of fitness. If you plan to hike La Concha, start early and take plenty of water.
- Spectacular views over Marbella and the Mediterranean
- One of the best-known hikes near Marbella
- Ideal for active nature lovers
- Panoramic views from the summit
Caminito del Rey, Day Trip from Marbella
Caminito del Rey is one of the most spectacular day trips from Marbella. Located around a 1.5-hour drive away, this famous walking route takes you through dramatic gorges along elevated walkways built against steep rock walls.
Along the route, you can enjoy impressive landscapes, turquoise reservoirs and spectacular views. Tickets should be booked well in advance, particularly during busy periods.
- One of Spain’s most spectacular walking routes
- Impressive gorges and scenery
- Popular day trip from Marbella
- Unique outdoor experience in Andalusia
Walking Marbella’s Golden Mile
Marbella’s Golden Mile is one of the most famous coastal areas between Marbella and Puerto Banús. The route is known for its luxury villas, five-star hotels, tropical gardens and beautiful Mediterranean coastline.
Walking along the Golden Mile is an easy way to experience this part of Marbella. Along the way, you will pass beach restaurants, luxury resorts, terraces and beautiful sea views.
- Beautiful coastal walk in Marbella
- Route between Marbella and Puerto Banús
- Luxury hotels, villas and beach restaurants
- Especially beautiful around sunset
Water Sports in Marbella
Thanks to its Mediterranean climate and long coastline, Marbella is an excellent destination for water sports on the Costa del Sol. From paddleboarding and jet skiing to boat trips and other activities on the Mediterranean, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Marbella from the water
Best Water Sports and Activities in Marbella
Marbella and Puerto Banús offer plenty of water sports and activities along the Costa del Sol. Stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking are relaxing ways to explore Marbella’s coastline, especially in the morning when the sea is often calmer.
For something more adventurous watersports in Marbella or Puerto Banús, you can rent jet skis at several locations or visit a boat rental in Puerto Banús, with no boating licence required for certain types of boats.
In addition, boat trips regularly depart from Puerto Banús to go dolphin watching , offering a good chance of seeing wild dolphins. For even more adventure, you can choose flyboarding, parasailing or canyoning.
- Stand-up paddleboarding
- Kayaking along the Marbella coastline
- Jet skiing
- Boat rental from Puerto Banús
- Dolphin-watching boat trips
- Flyboarding
- Parasailing
- Canyoning in the mountains around Marbella
- Hire a boat without a licence: Boat2Go Boat & Yacht Rental
- Luxury boat trips and private yachts: Marbella Boat Charter
- SUP and kayaking: NaluSur
- Jetski: Jet Ski Puerto Banús
- Parasailing: Pirate Parasailing
- Dolphin-watching: Water Sports
StayatSas TipMost water sports and boat trips depart from Puerto Banús, just a 5-minute drive from StayatSas Marbella in Nueva Andalucía.
Golf in Marbella: Stay in the Heart of Golf Valley
Marbella is one of the leading golf destinations on the Costa del Sol, with more than 70 golf courses along the coast. Many are located around Nueva Andalucía, making this one of Spain’s most popular areas for a golf holiday.
StayatSas Marbella is located in Nueva Andalucía, right in Marbella’s famous Golf Valley. Several renowned golf courses can be reached within approximately 5 to 10 minutes by car, while Puerto Banús, restaurants and the beach are also nearby.
Los Naranjos Golf Club
Los Naranjos is one of Marbella’s best-known golf courses. The course is renowned for its wide fairways, fast greens and excellent maintenance.
- One of the finest courses in Golf Valley
- Well maintained
- Good practice facilities
- A cosy clubhouse with an excellent restaurant
Less suitable as: if you’re looking for a cheap green fee.
Real Club de Golf Las Brisas
Las Brisas is an exclusive professional course and has belonged to the absolute top of Spain for years.
- Top quality
- Fantastic course condition
- A very exclusive look and feel
Less suitable as: you don’t have much golfing experience yet.
Aloha Golf Club
Aloha Golf Club is one of Spain’s most prestigious golf clubs. The course offers stunning views of La Concha.
- Spectacular location
- A challenging but fair job
- Great view
Less suitable as: you want to play spontaneously.
La Quinta Golf & Country Club
La Quinta features 27 holes, allowing you to play various combinations. The course is suitable for almost every level.
- Three different loops
- Lots of variety
- Suitable for beginners and advanced users
- Stunning sea and mountain views
Less suitable as: you prefer to play a classic 18-hole course.
PG by Magna Golf Marbella
Magna Marbella is a compact 9-hole golf course and is ideal if you’re short on time or fancy a relaxed round.
- Ideal for a quick round
- Good value for money
- Perfect for beginners
- Lovely driving range
Less suitable as: if you’re looking for the full golfing experience.
Banús Executive Golf and Guadalmina
Banús Executive Golf is a compact par-3 course. Real Club de Golf Guadalmina is a historic golf club with two 18-hole courses.
- Banús Executive Golf is ideal for beginners
- Guadalmina has two different courses
- Beautiful combination of parkland and coastal golf
- Plenty of variety within a short distance of StayatSas
Why Stay at StayatSas Marbella for a Golf Holiday?StayatSas Marbella is located in Nueva Andalucía, in the heart of Marbella’s famous Golf Valley. Several of Marbella’s best-known golf courses, including Los Naranjos, Las Brisas and Aloha Golf Club, are just a few minutes away by car.
StayatSas Tip Planning a golf holiday in Marbella? Stay in the heart of Golf Valley, close to top golf courses, Puerto Banús and the beach.
Best Things to Do in Marbella with Kids
Die besten Aktivitäten mit Kindern in Marbella
Selwo Aventura
Selwo Aventura is one of the most beautiful safari parks in southern Spain. You can drive or walk past giraffes, elephants, lions, rhinos, zebras and many other animal species.
Amazonia Adventure
This adventure park features various courses among the trees with rope bridges, ziplines and challenging obstacles.
Catamaran Trips & Dolphin Watching from Puerto Banús
Catamarans and excursion boats depart daily from Puerto Banús. During the trip you can enjoy the view and regularly spot dolphins.
Segway tour along the promenade
On a guided Segway tour, you’ll discover beaches, parks, luxury villas and lively terraces.
CostaJump Marbella
This modern trampoline park features hundreds of trampolines, foam pits and obstacle courses.
Water Parks near Marbella
On hot summer days, a water park is always a hit. From Marbella, you can reach several large water parks within about half an hour’s drive.
- Aqualand Torremolinos
- AquaMijas
- Aquavelis near Torre del Mar
StayatSas TipMany family activities in and around Marbella are easy to combine with Puerto Banús or a relaxing afternoon at the beach. StayatSas Marbella in Nueva Andalucía is a convenient base for exploring Marbella with children.
Padel, Tennis & Fitness in Marbella
Marbella is one of the Costa del Sol’s most popular destinations for an active holiday. Thanks to its mild climate, you can play padel and tennis or exercise outdoors almost all year round.
Real Club Padel Marbella
This modern sports complex features padel courts, an indoor and outdoor gym, HYROX, group classes, yoga, pilates, a restaurant and wellness facilities.
International Tennis Club and Padel
This sports complex features multiple padel and tennis courts and regularly organises group classes. Private lessons are also available.
Why Stay at StayatSas Marbella for an Active Holiday?StayatSas Marbella in Nueva Andalucía is an ideal base for an active holiday in Marbella, with padel, tennis and fitness facilities within walking distance and numerous golf courses in nearby Golf Valley.
Best Markets in and Around Marbella
Marbella is also known for its lively local markets, from weekly street markets to atmospheric artisan markets near Puerto Banús and along the Costa del Sol.
Marbella Market
Marbella's largest and most popular market takes place every Monday morning at Las Albarizas.
Puerto Banús Market
The Puerto Banús market is situated next to the former bullring in Nueva Andalucía and is one of the best-known markets on the Costa del Sol.
San Pedro Alcántara market
The market in San Pedro is a little smaller and more authentic than the one in Marbella.
Marbella Marina Artisan Market
On Sunday, Marbella marina transforms into a lively craft market featuring jewellery, art, ceramics and souvenirs.
StayatSas TipFrom StayatSas Marbella in Nueva Andalucía, you can reach both the Puerto Banús market and the San Pedro de Alcántara market in around 5 to 10 minutes by car.
Day Trip from Marbella to Málaga
Málaga is only around a 40-minute drive from Marbella and makes an excellent day trip. The city combines history, culture, gastronomy, shopping and modern architecture.
Alcazaba and Gibralfaro
The Alcazaba is one of the best-preserved Moorish fortresses in Spain. Combine your visit with a climb up to the Castillo de Gibralfaro.
Picasso Museum
Málaga is the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. At the Picasso Museum, you can admire more than two hundred works.
Málaga Cathedral
The imposing cathedral, also known as La Manquita, is one of Andalusia’s most famous landmarks.
Atarazanas Central Market
The covered market is the place to sample fresh fish, Spanish hams, cheeses, olives, fruit and tapas.
Muelle Uno
Muelle Uno is the modern boulevard and marina of Málaga with restaurants, shops, terraces and art galleries.
Playa de la Malagueta
Round off your day at Playa de la Malagueta and try the famous espetos de sardinas at a chiringuito.
StayatSas TipLeave Marbella early so you have enough time to combine Málaga’s culture and shopping with a good lunch and a relaxing afternoon by the sea.
Day Trip from Marbella to Ronda
Around an hour’s drive from Marbella lies Ronda, one of Andalusia’s most spectacular historic mountain towns and a popular day trip from the Costa del Sol.
Puente Nuevo and the El Tajo Gorge
The Puente Nuevo is the ultimate icon of Ronda. This impressive stone bridge spans the El Tajo gorge, which is over 100 metres deep.
The Old Town
Stroll through narrow streets, past whitewashed houses, atmospheric squares and small boutiques.
Arab Baths
The Arab Baths are among the best-preserved Moorish bathhouses in Spain.
Casa del Rey Moro
Via the famous water mine, you descend a long flight of steps towards the river at the bottom of the gorge.
Ronda Viewpoints
From the various viewpoints you look out over the bridge, the gorge and the surrounding mountainous landscape.
StayatSas TipEtwa eine Autostunde von Marbella entfernt liegt Ronda, eine der eindrucksvollsten historischen Bergstädte Andalusiens und ein beliebtes Ausflugsziel an der Costa del Sol.
Day Trip from Marbella to Granada
Granada is a longer drive from Marbella, but well worth the journey. The city is world-famous for the Alhambra and is one of Andalusia’s most impressive cultural destinations.
Alhambra
The Alhambra is one of the most beautiful palace complexes in Europe. Book your tickets well in advance.
Albaicín
In the oldest district of Granada you walk through narrow streets with white houses, flowers and cosy squares.
San Nicolás Viewpoint
From this famous viewpoint you look out over the Albaicín, the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada.
StayatSas TipLeave Marbella early and book your Alhambra tickets well in advance online. This gives you enough time to explore Granada and the Albaicín at a relaxed pace.
Why Stay in Nueva Andalucía, Marbella?
The right location can make all the difference to your holiday. Our StayatSas apartment is located in Nueva Andalucía, one of Marbella’s most sought-after neighbourhoods. Here you can enjoy the peace and space of a green residential area, while Puerto Banús, Marbella’s beaches, Golf Valley and other highlights of the Costa del Sol are all within easy reach.
Spacious 80 m² private terrace
Tropical garden with two swimming pools
Bright, comfortable and stylish living room
- Puerto Banús is around a 15- to 20-minute walk away
- Several beaches within walking distance
- Located in Marbella’s famous Golf Valley
- Free secure private parking in the shade
- Peaceful and secure residential area
- Close to El Corte Inglés, Marina Banús and La Cañada
- Restaurants, cafés and supermarkets nearby
- An ideal base for day trips to Málaga, Ronda and Granada
Whether you’re coming for a relaxing sun holiday, a week’s golf, an active holiday or a combination of culture, nature and fine dining, Nueva Andalucía is the perfect base from which to explore the best of Marbella and the Costa del Sol.
Stay at StayatSas Marbella Our spacious holiday apartment in Nueva Andalucía, Marbella has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a sunny 80 m² private terrace, tropical gardens with two swimming pools and a private parking space.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is the apartment from the beach?
How far are Puerto Banús and Marbella Old Town?
Do I need a car when staying in Nueva Andalucía, Marbella?
Is the apartment suitable for families?
Is private parking available?
Is the apartment suitable for longer stays in Marbella?
Is the apartment suitable for spending the winter in Marbella?
Are pets allowed?
Are the swimming pools open all year round?
Is the apartment suitable for a workation in Marbella?
Ready for a holiday in Marbella? Stay at our apartment in Nueva Andalucía and discover why Marbella and the Costa del Sol are such popular holiday destinations.
