Marbella is where sun-soaked days meet Andalusian charm and Mediterranean style. Known for its pristine beaches, whitewashed historic old town, and beautiful marina, this coastal destination has something for every traveller. Whether you’re in Marbella to relax, explore, or simply enjoy a touch of the good life, Marbella will hit the mark.
From historic Old Town lanes that call to be explored to stylish beach clubs and mountain trails, Marbella’s variety is a big part of its magic—and it’s all best enjoyed at your own pace, preferably with the sun on your back and the sea never far away!
Keep reading for our handy guide to Marbella. If you’re ready to explore this first-class destination for yourself, consider booking our Self-Guided eBike Tour of Marbella.
Marbella offers a mild and sunny climate throughout the year, but the ideal times to visit are from April to June and then again from September to early November. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm without being stifling, and the town is less congested than it is during the peak summer season. The beaches remain inviting, restaurants buzz with energy, and outdoor activities – like eBiking, hiking, or dining by the sea – are particularly enjoyable. In contrast, July and August can be very crowded, with higher prices and hotter temperatures.
Marbella’s old town is a world away from the flash of Puerto Banús, and all the better for it. Wander narrow cobbled streets lined with flower-filled balconies, browse local artisan shops, and pause for coffee in Plaza de los Naranjos, the historic heart of the town. With its whitewashed buildings, orange trees, and relaxed pace, this area gives you a glimpse of the Marbella that came before the superyachts. It’s also home to some excellent tapas bars—ideal for a lazy lunch after a morning of exploring.
Our Self-Guided eBike Tour of Marbella includes an exploration of the Old Town.
The coastline around Marbella offers beachgoers a little of everything, from bustling spots with music and cocktails to quiet coves for peaceful swims. Playa de la Fontanilla is a local favorite, close to town and well-served by cafes. For something livelier, Nikki Beach draws a glitzier crowd with champagne brunches and DJs. Cabopino Beach, with its dunes and boardwalks, is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. Whichever you choose, a good swim and a cold drink with sea views are essential parts of any Marbella day.
One of the best ways to explore Marbella is on an electric bike—and WeWheel’s Self-Guided eBike Tour makes it effortless. You’ll cover more ground than on foot without breaking a sweat, riding from the historic old town to coastal promenades and quiet viewpoints only locals know. Along the way, you’ll get insights into Marbella’s history, culture, and natural surroundings. The electric assist makes it accessible for most fitness levels, and the pace is relaxed, with plenty of photo stops. If you want to see the real Marbella beyond the beach, this tour is a fantastic way to do it.
The Paseo Marítimo stretches for several kilometres along Marbella’s coast, linking the old town to the flashy Puerto Banús. It’s a flat, easy path that’s ideal for walking, running, or cycling, with the Mediterranean on one side and palm trees and beach bars on the other. You’ll pass sandy beaches, sculptures, ice cream stalls, and a wide variety of cafés where you can stop for a drink or bite to eat. Early morning and sunset are the best times for a stroll, when the light is soft and the promenade feels especially peaceful.
Just a few kilometres from central Marbella, Puerto Banús is all about luxury. Here, superyachts bob in the marina alongside Ferraris and designer boutiques. It’s a great spot for people-watching and soaking up the high-end vibe, even if you’re not splashing out on shopping. The waterfront restaurants are perfect for a long lunch, while bars and clubs liven up as the sun goes down. For something quieter, walk the jetty for panoramic views back toward the mountains.
If you’re up for a bit of adventure, head inland to Marbella’s mountainous backdrop. La Concha, the iconic peak visible from town, has hiking trails with splendid panoramic views of the coast all the way to Gibraltar and even Morocco on a clear day. Trails vary in difficulty, with some easier options in the Sierra Blanca range. Bring sturdy shoes, plenty of water, and start early to avoid the midday heat.
Marbella’s dining scene is satisfyingly diverse, with everything from beachfront chiringuitos to fine dining. For traditional Andalusian flavours, look for places serving pescaíto frito (fried fish), salmorejo, or grilled sardines cooked over open fires. The old town is packed with excellent tapas bars, while the Golden Mile and Puerto Banús offer more international menus.
Marbella makes a great base for exploring southern Spain. Head inland to Ronda, a dramatic mountaintop town split by a deep gorge, or visit Mijas Pueblo, a whitewashed village with narrow streets and coastal views. For something completely different, take a day trip to Gibraltar to see the famous rock and meet its resident monkeys. Most of these spots are under two hours away and can be visited independently or as part of a guided tour. It’s well worth carving out a day to explore the region’s history and natural beauty.
While Marbella is best known for its beaches and nightlife, it also has a growing arts scene. The Ralli Museum, just outside Puerto Banús, is free to enter and features a strong collection of contemporary Latin American art. In the old town, you’ll find smaller galleries, artisan workshops, and the Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo, which focuses on Spanish printmaking. Along Avenida del Mar, bronze sculptures by Salvador Dalí add a surreal twist to a seaside stroll.
Evenings in Marbella are made for lingering. Head to a rooftop bar in the old town or the seafront promenade for a drink as the sun dips behind the mountains. Once night falls, options range from laid-back wine bars and flamenco performances to late-night beach clubs and dancing under the stars in Puerto Banús.
Marbella has a rhythm all its own—unhurried, sun-soaked, and full of contrasts. One moment you’re wandering cobbled streets and quiet plazas, the next you’re gazing out from a mountaintop or sipping wine by the sea. Whether you’re here for the glamour, the food, the fresh air, or a bit of everything, Marbella delivers. Ready to see it for yourself? Book a Self-Guided eBike Tour with WeWheel!