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Marbella city

Plaza de los Naranjos, Marbella, Andalucía

Description

Marbella is a well-known seaside resort along Spain's Costa del Sol, in the foothills of the Sierra Blanca. It is also known for its many golf courses. The original settlement dates back to either the Phoenician or Roman era and, in the 10th century, it was already under Moorish rule (Caliphate of Córdoba), only becoming part of the Crown of Castile in 1485. The first hotels were built at the beginning of the 20th century and over the decades it has become a popular venue for the rich and famous. Highlights of the city include the Plaza de los Naranjos and the Old Town, the Ermita del Santo Cristo, the Church of Santa María, and the various beaches.

Access & Transport

The city is 60km southwest of Málaga on the AP-7. There are direct buses and the journey lasts 45mins. Malaga airport is 50km away and is the closest international gateway (direct bus lines)

Instructions & Recommendations

If you have some spare time during the day or staying more than one day, there are some scenic walks in the hills right behind the city. Whether it is the beach or a hike, don' forget your sunblock and cap/hat.

Meta review

Travel guides and online reviews are consistent in recommending a visit of the Old Town area which "almost makes you forget you are in Marbella" (this is borrowed from a review and says a lot about the contrast between that area and the rest of the city). The small street with flowers blooming in pots, the churches, the many small cafes and restaurants and the famous Plaza de los Naranjos all combine to make a very enjoyable urban exploration. The other area that gets special mention is the seaside promenade: very enjoyable, with good sea views but nothing really original or spectacular besides.

Environmental & Social

Environmentally neutral Socially, massively over-commercialised with negative impact on the community

Conclusion

Marbella is well known as a seaside resort, but its brand doesn't exactly resonate with every type of visitors. Those who would normally avoid it as lacking interest should not be so ready to dismiss it though and it is probably worth a day's visit as it has managed to retain an attractive old town neighbourhood. Those who fancy the combination of beaches and nightlife will not be disappointed either.

Key positive

Charming old town

Some family-friendly beaches

Key negative

Busy and expensive in the summer

Seafront not visually attractive due to massive residential developments

Suitability

Suitable for all ages and accessible for visitors with reduced mobility

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

June 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit

av. transport time:1h

est. visit time:6h

Sunlight based

Sunrise / early morningOk

MorningOk

Lunch timeOk

AfternoonOk

Sunset / eveningOk

Night – bef. midnightOk

Night – aft. midnightNo

Pricing
Free

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