And if you’ve already started looking for vacation rentals Marbella, you’re headed in the right direction. This guide will assist you in organizing the kind of vacation you are going to be talking about years later.
Why Choose Marbella?
Let’s be honest, there are plenty of beach towns in Spain. But Marbella hits differently. It features a rather unique blend of a casual Mediterranean demeanor and luxurious overindulgence. You may get to walk through the quiet streets with cobblestones, and pass the next minute having cocktails on a rooftop bar.
It is also very picturesque. On the one hand, there is the mountains of Sierra Blanca and, on the other, the Mediterranean Sea stretching to infinity. Marbella has about 320 sunny days annually, which makes it a destination for all year round.
When to Visit Marbella
Depending on the season you travel to Marbella, you will have the very different experience, thus the breakdown goes like this:
Spring (March to May)
A golden weather, beautiful days, slightly chilly nights, and flowers in full bloom. There are fewer tourists this time of year, so it’s easier to get tables at restaurants and better rates on vacation rentals Marbella.
Summer (June to August)
It is the busiest time of the year. Imagine crowded beaches, busy beach clubs and vibrancy. It can get really hot there (we’re talking 90°F/30°C or so), but oh well, that’s what pools and sangria are for.
Fall (September to November)
Plenty warmer, but slightly calmer. It isn’t as overcrowded at the beaches and you can walk around town without the summer crowd. September is lovely, weather-wise (summer) and tourist-wise (low season), for inhabitants.
Winter (December to February)
Silent and calm. There is no snow in Marbella, and the temperatures are on par. Want fewer crowds and a touch of local color? It is a good time.
How to Get to Marbella
There is no airport in Marbella but it is not an issue. The closest airport is Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, which is about a 45-minute drive. You can rent a car, use a taxi, or order a personal transfer. Major transportation is provided by bus that regularly runs between Málaga and Marbella.
Pro tip: Flying in? You can find direct flights into Málaga, especially outside of the country. It is well interconnected to most of the major cities in Europe and the UK.
Getting Around Marbella
When you arrive to Marbella, there is no necessity to use a car unless you decide to visit the rural or neighboring towns. Inside the city, one can get everything on foot or taxi or even through public transport. Buses are also inexpensive and frequent, mainly in areas within the city and along beaches.
Where to Stay in Marbella
Your accommodation can be the thing that will make or break your trip. Puerto Banus and Marbella have all types of resorts, apartments, hotels and even luxury 5-star beach resorts and clubs. But more travelers are leaning toward vacation rentals Marbella for the comfort, privacy, and local feel they offer.
Be it a spacious apartment in the Old Town or a luxurious sea view villa, you will find a hefty portion of rental offers that fit your taste.
Best Neighborhoods to Stay
In brief, the following is a guide to some of the most popular areas of Marbella:
- Old Town (Casco Antiguo): Charming and historical. Perfect to stay in case you like to stroll along tiny streets, explore local cafes, and be near cultural attractions.
- Golden Mile: This is the roadway between the heart of Marbella and Puerto Banus. It is the place where you will locate luxurious hotels, restaurants and we also have very attractive houses.
- Puerto Banús: The flashy marina is full of yachts, nightclubs and designer shops. This is the place to party or to find people to watch.
- San Pedro de Alcántara: A Calmer region to the west of Marbella, and more local and relaxed, very family friendly.
Top Things to Do in Marbella
1. Wander the Old Town
The old town is the heart of the town of Marbella. It is as though you have entered a time machine with cobbled streets, flower pots of all colors and sweet houses all around. Do not forget about Plaza de los Naranjos, where people are invited to have a drink under orange trees.
2. Lounge on the Beaches
The beaches in Marbella can be found in all tempos along the miles-long coastline. Playas de la Fontanilla is the central and vibrant and the Cabopino Beach is the choice of the day to be calm and relaxing. There are sun loungers, showers and beach bars (called chiringuitos) in most beaches.
3. Visit Puerto Banús
Unless you have seen Puerto Banus, you can not say that you have toured Marbella. It is showy, to be sure, but fun, too. It is heaven to wander or indulge with supercars, designer stores and beautiful boats.
Marbella Nightlife: From Chill to Chic
Marbella is known to have stylish nightlife with its luxurious clubs and street nightlife bars. Some of the places to visit are:
- La Sala: A mix of restaurant and lounge bar. Great for dinner and live music.
- Olivia Valère: Probably the most iconic club in Marbella, luxurious and energetic.
- Pangea: Rooftop views and upscale drinks in Puerto Banús.
Shopping in Marbella
Like to shop on vacation? Marbella’s got you covered.
- La Cañada Shopping Center: A large mall with high-street brands and a big supermarket.
- Puerto Banús: Designer boutiques like Gucci, Dior, and Versace.
- Old Town Boutiques: Artisan shops selling handmade jewelry, ceramics, leather, and clothes.
Travel Tips and Essentials
- Language: Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken by majority of people in tourist hotspots.
- Currency: Euro (E). They accept credit cards.
- Safety: Marbella is pretty safe, however, keep an eye out on your valuables when you are in the busy parts of the city.
- Meal Times: The residents are late eaters. A snack at 2 PM, dinner at 9 PM.
Staying in Style: Nightfall Group Experience
For travelers seeking an unforgettable Marbella experience, Nightfall Group offers the next level of luxury. We offer some of the finest villa rentals Marbella has to offer, think infinity pools, sea views, and high-end interiors.
But it’s not just about where you stay. Nightfall provides complete concierge services, including:
- Private chefs
- Chauffeurs
- Yacht rentals
- Event planning
- In-home spa treatments
No matter whether it is a family visit, group excursion, or romantic vacation, you can be sure that everything will be fine during the entire process. The detail, comfort and experience-oriented approach that we put on an accustomed vacation turns it into something quite unique.
Looking for holiday rentals Marbella but want something more exclusive? The properties of nightfall are carefully selected and are among the most desirable areas of Marbella. Whether you desire that Insta-worthy shot or that great night of sleep in a dreamy villa, then this is the way to do it.
Budget-Friendly Options
Don’t be afraid that you are not into luxury at the moment. There are plenty of holiday rental Marbella options that are comfortable, affordable, and still close to the action. Seek some suburbs rather near the center, such as Elviria or San Pedro. You will find that you have more space at a lower price, and yet you will be close to beaches and restaurants.
Conclusion
Marbella is the kind of place where you can spend all day sipping your cocktail and all night partying or vice versa. It is sun, sea, and Spanish flair with a touch of lavishness. Whether it be meandering through Old Town or drinking wine in a beach club, you are welcome to slip yourself into vacation mode.
Be it a highly exclusive boutique apartment, total immersion through Nightfall Group, or simply taking advantage of the sun, Marbella has the style you seek. Then get started, begin to plan, and pack lightly because the rest will be taken care of by Marbella.
Start planning your trip with Nightfall Group now by calling +1 (310) 666-7012 or emailing Bookings@nightfallgroup.com, and get in touch with one of our concierge team members to curate a luxury staycation tailored exclusively to your desires.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Marbella known for?
A destination presented for white sandy beaches and supreme quality of life, Marbella is a treasure from times gone by, with the most coveted marina in Spain, Puerto Banus. It attracts every tourist curious for recreation, glistened with classic amenities.
2. Is Marbella family-friendly?
Yes! Beaches, family restaurants, parks and neighboring towns are worth visiting in Marbella, as they are safe. Zones such as San Pedro and Cabopino are especially kid-friendly.
3. Which currency do people use in Marbella?
In Marbella, the currency of use is the Euro. Debit and credit cards work in most places, although it is useful to have some cash to visit small shops and local markets.
4. How costly is Marbella?
Marbella can be as expensive or as elegant as you wish it to be. Tapas bars and affordable accommodation rentals are available locally, and there are also public beaches that offer low expenses, though there are designer shops and exclusive clubs as well in case you are eager to spend a fortune.