Where to Stay in Marbella, Spain: 5 Best Areas & Hotels

Planning a trip to Marbella and not sure where to stay? You’re in the right place.

From large private estates and luxury beachfront resorts to boutique, art-focused budget stays with an authentic feel, Marbella really does have a bit of everything (especially if you’re after some glamour). It’s not a big city either, so getting around is easy, whether you’re walking, cycling, driving, or hopping on a bus.

But where you stay still makes a difference, no doubt about it. In this guide, we’ll break down the five best areas to stay in Marbella, each with its own pros and a few things to keep in mind, along with our favorite hotels in every category, from luxury seaside stays to more laid-back, affordable options.

Where to Stay in Marbella Map

Overview of the Best Areas and Best Hotels

Marbella is a very trendy town, drawing in luxury travelers and beach lovers. There’s a charming historic Old Town, paired with upscale shopping, resorts, and a glitzy marina where you can easily spot a celebrity or even royalty. Then you have San Pedro, a little further out, not far, but just enough to make you feel more like a local and less like a tourist. 

When you think about it, Marbella really does have everything “under one roof” – history, seaside, luxury resorts, and that authentic Andalusian feel, plus food that you’ll never forget. And then there’s the Sierra Blanca mountains in the background, along with a 27 km (about 17 mi) stretch of sandy beaches, beach clubs, villas, hotels, and golf courses. 

If I had to compare it to somewhere else, I’d say it feels like a mix of Monaco, Ibiza, and Naples, Florida, with its luxury marina, great dining, nightlife, and palm-lined boulevards. 

Since it’s a little town, getting around is super easy. You can rent a car or use taxis and rideshare apps, plus buses if you want to ride like the locals. If you’re staying in Marbella Old Town, you can rely on walking for most things, and the beaches are within easy reach too. 

Here are the best hotels and areas in Marbella:

• Old Town – Best for first-time visitors – If you want the more historic, Andalusian side of the city, with cobblestone streets and orange blossom trees overhead, this is your kind of place. Our absolute favorite stay here is La Fonda Heritage Hotel Luxury, as it balances history, luxury, and location perfectly!

• Puerto Banús –Best for luxury travelers – This area is the playground for the rich and famous, with luxury yachts, high-end stores, upscale hotels, and fine dining, perfect if you feel like splurging a bit. Hard Rock Hotel Marbella – Puerto Banús brings a fun retro feel, with a great outdoor pool and a really good breakfast included. 

• Golden Mile – Best for upscale beach resorts – If you want that more private, resort-style feel, like you’re staying somewhere a bit more exclusive between the Old Town and the glitzy marina, this is it. Our pick here is Alanda Marbella Hotel & Wellness, a modern stay focused on health and wellness, with an alcohol-free, halal-friendly concept. 

• San Pedro de Alcántara – Best for budget-friendly travelers – For those looking for a relaxed, easy-on-the-wallet stay, this is a great place to base yourself. NH San Pedro de Alcántara makes for an easy, no-fuss stay, with simple but practical rooms and a really good breakfast, all within walking distance of what you need. 

• Elviria – Best for relaxed beaches and families – Whether you’re traveling with your family or as a couple who prefers spacious stays, quiet surroundings, wide beaches, and fine dining, Elviria makes a great base. Ona Alanda Club Marbella is a fantastic aparthotel in the area with three outdoor pools, squash courts, a games room with a pool table, and a kids’ club, making it an ideal stay for families. 

Where to Stay in Marbella

Marbella Old Town

BEST FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS

Pros 

• Highly walkable, with everything close by, from shopping to sightseeing
• Authentic Andalusian charm around every corner
• Great mix of tapas bars and outdoor dining 

Cons 

• Driving through the narrow streets can be tricky
• Accommodation is generally smaller and a bit pricier than in other areas 

Marbella’s Old Town is the heart of the city, filled with whitewashed buildings, cobblestone streets, flower-packed balconies, and lively squares like Plaza de los Naranjos. Yes, it’s the complete opposite of the luxury beach resorts and the rest of Marbella, and that’s exactly why we love it.

Here it’s all tapas bars, boutique hotels, old churches, and so much history. It really feels like the most atmospheric place to stay, where the old culture still shows up in the small details. And then there are the orange blossoms that make wandering around even better. Culture, history, a bit of romance, tapas, sangria… we were very much in our element here. 

Our absolute favorite spot was the 15th-century Chapel of Santiago in Plaza de los Naranjos. The Town Hall and the Cathedral of the Coast nearby are also worth checking out.

It’s pedestrian-friendly, which makes getting around easy, especially with kids, and being steps from restaurants and landmarks helps a lot. We’d especially recommend the Old Town for couples, whether you’re celebrating something or just want a quieter and more soulful side of Marbella.

La Fonda Heritage Hotel Luxury – $$$ 

La Fonda Heritage Hotel Luxury is a pretty rare find because (and this is still a bit unbelievable), while it was being renovated, they discovered the nave of the 16th-century Hermitage of San Sebastián, with the altar and frescoes still intact, which are now part of the hotel’s design. I mean, how often can you say that about a place you stayed in Spain? 

But apart from that, the hotel really does feel luxurious, no matter where you turn, with a restaurant that was the first to receive a Michelin star in Marbella, and now a Michelin Key too, which feels pretty well deserved once you’ve seen it all. And since there are only 20 rooms (all beautifully done with bespoke furniture), it feels more personal than a busy resort stay, which is kind of our thing.

Rooms start around €400 per night, depending on the season and availability.

If La Fonda Heritage Hotel Luxury is fully booked, Hotel Claude Marbella is a really nice boutique option, with terracotta floors and rooms with different themes, and you can tell they’ve put thought into the details. It’s about a five-minute walk from the beach and steps from the Bonsai Museum Marbella, so the location is easy, especially for couples or a honeymoon. 

Another great choice for romantic trips is HC6 Boutique Marbella, an adults-only stay with exotic, Thai-inspired rooms and digital check-in, so you won’t really see staff unless you need something. There’s no restaurant on-site, but you’re right in the heart of the Old Town, surrounded by hundreds of great places to eat. 

Óbal Hotel Marbella – $$

Óbal Hotel Marbella ended up being one of our favorite stays in Spain, mainly for how easy it felt to settle in, with a rooftop pool (we dropped our bags and headed straight up) and a bar where you might randomly catch live music, which is exactly our kind of evening. It helps that it’s just steps from Marbella’s main square, so you’re right in the middle of things but still have a calm place to come back to and reset.

Rooms have been recently renovated and still feel fresh, with a modern, minimalist design that works for us, whether you go for a compact single or something larger (go for the suite if you want more space). There’s also an in-house restaurant serving Mediterranean food throughout the day, which is really handy when you don’t feel like searching for somewhere to eat.

Prices here usually range from €115 to €300+ per night.

The Town House is another mid-range hotel option in the area, right in the center of the Old Town. We love the charming rooftop terrace here, but the rooms are just as appealing, especially with the wooden beams and classic details.  

Linda Boutique Hotel sits on one of the most picturesque pedestrian streets in the Old Town, just a short walk from Venus Beach. With family rooms, personal service, great food, and a scenic rooftop lounge, it has everything you need for a memorable stay in Marbella.

Hostal El Gallo – $

If you’re not sold on luxury amenities and prefer something more real and social, Hostal El Gallo is your kind of place. This family-run guesthouse is best known for its restaurant, where locals and tourists end up sharing tables over fresh fish and paella.

We especially love the location, on a quiet, narrow street with flowers and little balconies. It’s central but still peaceful, which you’ll appreciate when you’re trying to fall asleep at night. Rooms are simple but functional, so you won’t feel like you’re missing anything. Some come with a small balcony or patio, and there’s also a shared terrace if you want a bit of outdoor space.

With prices starting around €80 per night, it’s one of the better-value stays in central Marbella, and a great pick for budget travelers or solo explorers.

Another great budget stay to check is Pensión Aduar, with a traditional Andalusian courtyard if you’re after something more authentic, plus a shared kitchen for a quick meal or coffee. It sits right in the heart of the Old Town, just a five-minute walk from Marbella’s beaches, so the location is hard to beat. 

Hostal Paco Marbella is closer to the waterfront, surrounded by bars and cafes, so it’s a great, budget-friendly base for exploring. The rooms are simple but kept tidy and clean (some even have a small balcony), and there are newly renovated bathrooms, along with a 24-hour reception if you need anything. 

Puerto Banús

BEST FOR LUXURY TRAVELERS

Pros 

• High-end shopping and rows of luxury yachts 
• Tons of places to eat, from casual tapas to more upscale spots 
• Everything’s close and easy to get around, and it generally feels safe 

Cons 

• Prices on accommodation and dining can be very high 
• It’s missing that traditional Andalusian feel you get in the Old Town 

Puerto Banús is Marbella’s glamorous marina, known for its superyachts, designer shops, fine dining, and upscale nightlife. It’s often called the “Beverly Hills of Spain,” and it does feel like it: people come here to people-watch and be seen, and then there are the random tourists (like us) just soaking it all in.

By day, it’s beach clubs and long waterfront lunches, and by night, it turns into one of the liveliest spots on the Costa del Sol. It really does feel like Monaco by day and Ibiza by night. Keep an eye out, you never know who you might spot here.

When the port officially opened in 1970, it drew in the jet set and royalty, including Prince Rainier III and Grace Kelly, so you get a pretty good sense of the kind of place it’s always been.

Accommodation here really is something, ranging from beachfront apartments and penthouses to villas in the hills. It almost feels like its own little town, with everything within walking distance, supermarkets, a mall, cafes, plenty of restaurants, and a long coastal path stretching toward Marbella Old Town. It’s lively and energetic, making it ideal for travelers looking to splurge and socialize. 

ME by Meliá Marbella – $$$

If you’re looking for a high-end stay, ME by Meliá Marbella is hard to beat. There are three pools for those lazy afternoons (including an adults-only one), and the cabanas by the pool are just the spot to unwind with a good book. Rooms are luxurious in every sense of the word, while the penthouse with a private pool feels a little unreal. 

There’s even a beach club with a DJ booth (we already know where you’d spend most of the time). Best of all, you get to see Marbella differently, with things like wine tastings in an underwater winery, which is not your average evening plan.

It’s just a short walk from the beach and Puerto Banús Marina, so evenings are about slow strolls and a bit of yacht window shopping. Prices start at around €500 per night, though they can drop quite a bit in the off-season.

If ME by Meliá Marbella is all sold out for your dates, Occidental Puerto Banús is another upscale stay, with separate pools for adults and kids, lush gardens, and mountain views. It’s right by the main square and Puerto Banús Marina, and about a 5-minute walk from the beach. 

At Boutique Hotel B51, it’s all palm trees, sea views, luxury yachts, and sleek, spacious rooms. And being just steps from the beach makes those early mornings hard to skip. 

Hard Rock Hotel Marbella – Puerto Banús – $$

Hard Rock Hotel Marbella – Puerto Banús is easily our favorite mid-range pick, mostly because it doesn’t feel mid-range at all. It has that fun, slightly retro edge (we’d say very 70s), but with pretty much brand new rooms and suites (some going up to 140 sqm, or about 1,500 sq ft), so you’ve got your own little palace by the beach. 

There’s always something going on here, from live music to DJs, plus a mix of Spanish, Mexican, and Asian-inspired dining, a lively pool bar, and an open-air rooftop space. The Rock Spa, with yoga sessions, sauna, an indoor pool, and plenty of treatments, is there for slower days and won’t disappoint.

It’s right next to Marbella Casino and about a 10-minute walk to the beach. With prices starting around €250 per night in peak season, it feels like a bit of a steal.

Gran Hotel Guadalpín Banus is another really good 5-star stay that’s often a bit more affordable than you’d expect, with a beach club, a play area for kids, and plenty of spots to eat. It sits on the edge of the Puerto Banús district, so quiet nights are almost guaranteed. 

BlueBay Banús – $

If you’re after a more traditional stay, BlueBay Banús feels like a small Andalusian village, with cobbled paths, patios, little squares, and even a chapel. The area around the pool is the real highlight; it almost makes you feel like you’re somewhere tropical. There are a few restaurants, but if you’re lounging by the pool, don’t miss lunch at the pool bar.

Rooms here are spacious, and many face palms and green lawns, which feel quite refreshing. The whole place is quiet and relaxed, so it’s a good pick if you want something a bit slower-paced. It’s also very family-friendly, with activities like archery and table tennis, plus there’s live music and shows in the evening.

It’s about a 20-minute walk to Puerto Banús Marina, or you can hop on a bus right outside to Marbella Old Town. Prices start from around €100 per night, with some half-board options.

For those who want to cook while traveling and save a bit along the way, Park Plaza Suites Apartamentos is a great option, with spacious apartments, fully equipped kitchens, and balconies. It sits right by the marina and close to the beach, so shopping and dining are within easy reach. 

Benabola Hotel & Suites is another luxury aparthotel, set right on the Benabola Promenade, close to the beach, bars, the marina, and nightlife. The standout feature here is the sky lounge, and the apartments can be quite spacious (up to 100 sqm, or about 1,075 sq ft), which makes it a good option for larger groups or families who want a beachfront stay. 

Golden Mile

BEST FOR UPSCALE BEACH RESORTS 

Pros

• Great mix of high-end dining and beach bars
• Convenient location between the Old Town and Puerto Banús
• Feels very safe, one of the more secure areas in Marbella 

Cons 

• Prices here are some of the highest, even for Spain
• Lacks that traditional Spanish feel
• Public transport options are a bit limited 

The Golden Mile, or “La Milla de Oro” as locals call it, is a 6 km (around 3.7 mi) stretch between Marbella Old Town and Puerto Banús Marina, and is home to some of the region’s most iconic beachfront resorts, high-end bars and restaurants, luxury villas, private estates, and designer boutiques (no wonder it’s called “golden”).

Make sure you spend a day (or two if you find yourself enjoying it) here, even if you don’t stay in the area. It kind of feels like Naples, Florida, but with a Mediterranean backdrop. There’s plenty to do, from water sports to golf, and you’re right between the glamorous harbor on one end and the Old Town on the other, so you get a bit of everything.

It’s very central, and getting around is easy, just a short taxi ride from the Old Town or the marina, unless you’re like us and prefer to walk or cycle along the promenade for a more scenic option. Overall, we think it’s a great fit if you want something more upscale with easy access to beaches, dining, and nightlife.

Boho Club Marbella – $$$

Boho Club Marbella is a sleek and stylish stay set on a large private estate along the Golden Mile. It definitely matches the glitzy area, and we like how it blends modern design with wellness and a laid-back boho feel, which it’s actually known for.

You can choose from standard rooms or bungalows if you want more space and privacy. Some come with fully equipped kitchenettes, handy if you feel like prepping something before heading out. That said, breakfast is included, so don’t miss it – it’s even been recognized as one of the best in Spain. 

Location-wise, you’re just a short walk from Río Verde Beach, and a short drive from Marbella Bullring and La Quinta Golf & Country Club. We think it’s ideal for couples or anyone who wants something calmer than the usual resort buzz. Prices generally range from €200 to €650 per night.

If Boho Club Marbella is full, don’t worry, there are a few great alternatives, such as the Marbella Club Hotel · Golf Resort & Spa, located in the heart of the Golden Mile. This is a beachfront luxury stay that still feels very authentic, thanks to its history, handcrafted details, and a proper chiringuito (beach bar) right by the sea, which makes it special. 

We think you’ll also love the Nobu Hotel Marbella, as there’s a rooftop pool, a nightclub, and a few high-end bars (no long walks after a few drinks), plus the Japanese-Peruvian cuisine makes a nice change from the usual. It’s right next to Casablanca beach and a short ride to Plaza de los Naranjos, surrounded by tropical gardens, tennis courts, and pools. 

Alanda Marbella Hotel & Wellness – $$

There aren’t many mid-range options in this area, but we came across Alanda Marbella Hotel & Wellness, which feels like a really good value for what you get. It’s alcohol-free, with a pool and a poolside bar (snacks, no cocktails), and it’s actually the only fully halal five-star hotel in the area, which makes it quite different.

The rooftop pool is probably what we liked most, with views over the Mediterranean and Sierra Blanca. And if you’re into a healthier lifestyle, you’ll appreciate the focus on wellness here, with lighter dining options and a great spa to recharge (definitely try the hammam at least once!). As for location, it’s just a short walk to Nagüeles Beach, with tons of high-end restaurants nearby. 

Prices start around €200 off-season and can go up to €650 in peak months, still often lower than nearby hotels. 

Eurostars Ocean Marbella – $$

If you prefer a newer stay, Eurostars Ocean Marbella is a really nice option. Opened in 2023, it still feels new, and with only 70 rooms, it leans more boutique than resort, which we’ve really come to appreciate (and we think you will too). What we love most is the large private terrace that comes with every room, complete with sun loungers, so it almost feels like your own little outdoor space (not something you usually get in a 4-star hotel).

You can also book the spa privately and unwind in the Turkish baths and the sauna. There’s no need to search for food either, as there’s a family-friendly restaurant on-site serving delicious Mediterranean dishes from locally sourced ingredients.

Best of all, it’s tucked away in a quieter residential area, but still just an easy walk from Río Verde Beach. Rates typically range from €140 to €500+ per night. 

If Eurostars Ocean Marbella is full, Hotel Casa Dalia by Blossom Hotels offers a more personal and intimate stay with only 15 rooms, with free parking, modern interiors, and balconies with views of the magnificent Sierra Blanca mountains. It’s right across from the Marbella Club Hotel Golf Resort & Spa and just a short walk from Organic Market & Food Marbella, so super convenient. 

San Pedro de Alcántara 

BEST FOR BUDGET-FRIENDLY TRAVELERS

Pros 

• An authentic Spanish feel throughout
• Tons of budget-friendly places to stay
• Family-friendly and relaxed 

Cons 

• Can feel a bit too quiet if you’re after nightlife
• Not many major historical sights 

San Pedro de Alcántara was once an agricultural colony built around sugarcane. Today, it’s all about tapas bars, beach clubs, local restaurants, and weekly markets that make it feel more residential than touristy. We especially liked this part of Marbella, as it offers a more laid-back and authentic Spanish feel compared to the center and the marina.

That said, you won’t find nightclubs or much noise past midnight, and that can be a relief, especially after long days out exploring. This part of Marbella is more about slow strolls through town, coffee and churros under the palm trees, or spending a lazy day at one of the many beaches.

There aren’t many historical sights, but the ones that remain are still worth seeing. We’d suggest the Basilica of Vega del Mar, one of Andalusia’s oldest Christian sites, along with Torre Almenara de Guadalmina. The Las Bóvedas Roman Baths near the Guadalmina River are also worth a quick stop.

Despite being the quieter corner of Costa del Sol, San Pedro de Alcántara still manages to offer a bit of everything. In the end, we think it works well if you want better value and a slower pace, while still being close to Puerto Banús Marina.

Paloma Blanca Boutique Hotel – $$

If you love Pablo Picasso’s work and art in general, Paloma Blanca Boutique Hotel is that kind of place. The hotel is named after and themed around Picasso’s “White Dove” (Paloma Blanca), and even the restaurant is called Dora Maar, after his famous muse. But it’s not all about the art; there’s also the outdoor saltwater pool with a swim-up bar (something we’ve grown to love), a gym, and many places you can sit down and just be.

Rooms have everything you need, with a modern, minimalist design, and some come with a private balcony or terrace overlooking the pool or garden. And if you feel like exploring, you can hire a bike or a car and head to nearby galleries or the Picasso Museum Málaga (why not, it’s only about a 45-minute ride). Prices start at just €95+ per night, which is a bargain if you ask us!

Barceló Marbella doesn’t have the art focus of Paloma Blanca Boutique Hotel, but it more than makes up for it with lovely pools, a Turkish bath, sauna, massages, and several spots to grab a bite. The location is also hard to beat, about a 10-minute drive from Puerto Banús Marina, right by Guadalmina Golf Club.

NH San Pedro de Alcántara – $$

NH San Pedro de Alcántara is a great mid-range option, with a rooftop terrace and bar (open in high season), and in the mornings, a lovely breakfast spread with pastries and Spanish omelet. Downstairs, a small café-bar with a TV welcomes sports fans or anyone who wants to get a drink and socialize a bit. 

Rooms are modern, and all come with a private balcony, which is a nice extra at this price. If you want to get around, you can rent a bike or a car, or just use the taxi rank right outside. There’s also a bus stop nearby with direct links to Puerto Banús Marina and Marbella.

It’s about a 10-minute walk to the promenade, right in the middle of shops and local restaurants, and with prices from around €60 per night, it’s an easy, affordable base for exploring Marbella and nearby areas.

Another of our absolute favorites in the area is Casa Silca, an adults-only boutique stay with a homely feel, a pool set among lush gardens, and lovely views from the patio. It’s in a quieter, golf-heavy area, so you get more peace compared to the busier coastal spots. 

For something simpler and easier on the wallet, Hotel Avenida 31 is a great pick, just steps from the town center, local shops, the Mercado Municipal, and plenty of cafés. This family-run stay has a Mediterranean restaurant, a café-bar, and a sun terrace, and some rooms come with kitchenettes.

Hostal Acemar – $

Hostal Acemar makes you want to extend your stay a bit longer, as it’s affordable and still gives you everything you actually need. Rooms are clean, bright, and modern, and some come with small balconies overlooking the San Pedro streets, which we’re certain you’ll like. The staff is also often mentioned, and for good reason. 

For convenience, there’s a minimart in the lobby, open 24/7, useful for toiletries, but also dangerously good for those 2 am chocolate cravings. The location is great too, right in the old town of San Pedro, on a quiet street but close to restaurants and shops, and about a 25-minute walk to the beach. 

Overall, we think it’s a really good option if you’re traveling on a budget and just want something simple and comfortable. Rates usually range from €60 to €150 per night.

If Hostal Acemar is all sold out, try Hotel Doña Catalina, a family-run stay with a homely feel, a really good breakfast (including a Dutch-style option), and a sun terrace (always a plus). It puts you right on Plaza de la Iglesia, with tons of authentic tapas bars and restaurants just a short walk away. 

If you’re after something more modern, Hostal Alicia is a solid option, with a 24-hour front desk, daily housekeeping, car rental, and a tour desk to help you get around. You’re right in the center, just a minute walk from the main boulevard. 

Elviria

BEST FOR RELAXED BEACHES AND FAMILIES

Pros 

• Wide, quiet beaches that feel a bit more laid-back
• Very family-friendly overall
• Plenty of restaurants and small shopping areas nearby
• Great if you like to stay active 

Cons 

• You’ll likely need a car to get around easily
• Can get pricey, especially in peak season 

In the 1960s, Elviria was just a quiet rural part of Marbella, mostly covered with pine trees. That changed once a few upscale resorts popped up, and before long, it turned into a popular residential area and a go-to spot for international travelers (you might catch yourself checking property prices from day one).

These days, Elviria is known for some of the best sandy beaches around. It has a relaxed, resort-style feel, with beach clubs, golf courses, and those same pine forests still very much part of the scenery.

What really makes it stand out, though, is how easy it is to be here. Supermarkets, pharmacies, malls, and everyday essentials are all nearby, and you’re just a 15-minute drive from Marbella. And, if you feel like doing more than beach days, you can head to Aventura Amazonia Marbella or hop on a boat trip to spot dolphins (we did it and loved it).

Elviria runs along the A-7, so getting around is simple, with Málaga Airport about 30 minutes away. We think it’s a great pick for beach time and a quieter stay, especially with family.

Gran Marbella Resort & Beach Club – $$$

Gran Marbella Resort & Beach Club is where you go if you feel like splurging a bit. The infinity pool alone is worth it, overlooking the Mediterranean while you just sit back in the sun, and if you feel like swapping that for sea and sand, the beach is right there.

You don’t have to think much about food either; there’s a restaurant with a good mix of dishes, whether you’re vegan or more into meat, and a bar with live music for slower evenings. And when you head back to your room, it feels like your own little space, with big beds, a furnished terrace, and all the comforts you’d expect (and a few that would surprise you). 

It’s set on Playa del Real de Zaragoza, about a 20-minute ride from Marbella’s center. Prices usually start around €350 per night and can easily double in peak season.

With only five luxury suites set within a privately owned beach estate, The Residence by the Beach House Marbella is a great alternative if you’re after something more intimate. It’s right on the waterfront, with the famous Nikki Beach about a 10-minute walk along the sand. 

Another one of our favorite luxury stays in the area is Don Carlos Marbella, set in big tropical gardens, with several pools, plenty of places to eat, a wellness center, tennis courts, and a kids’ club. Location-wise, you’re close to Playa de Elviria, and about a 30- minute drive from Málaga Airport, with a bus stop nearby. 

Ona Alanda Club Marbella – $$

Ona Alanda Club Marbella is a 4-star aparthotel and a great choice if you’re traveling with family or as a group. The apartments are spacious, all with a private balcony and kitchenette, which is handy if you want to cook now and then (or keep up with always-hungry teenagers).

Places like these make you want to stay longer, especially with everything you get to use day to day, including four swimming pools, on-site squash courts, a kids’ club (in high season), a playground, and separate children’s pools.

There are a few places to eat on-site, including a restaurant and two bars, but since you’re in the center of Elviria, you’re also close to tons of really good places to eat. Prices usually range from €80 to €450 per night.

If Ona Alanda Club Marbella is fully booked for your dates, Elviria Hills Living is worth checking out, with spacious apartments, Michelin-starred dining, two outdoor pools, and pet-friendly options. It’s not by the beach, but set closer to the mountains, surrounded by greenery and near a UNESCO biosphere reserve, so it feels quieter overall. 

AluaSun Marbella Park – $

If you don’t want to sacrifice comfort for price, we’d go for AluaSun Marbella Park anytime. It’s a family-friendly 4-star resort with an on-site water park, a kids’ club, a mini-disco, and daily activities from water aerobics to team sports (basically, kids are busy and happy all day). But don’t worry, there’s an adults-only pool if you want a bit of “you” time. 

Rooms are spacious and practical for families, many with balconies overlooking the forest (waking up to pine trees instead of pool noise is a nice change). As for food, there’s buffet dining throughout the day, including themed nights (fun, fun!). 

The hotel is set in a pine forest not far from the beach. You can walk there, but there’s also a free shuttle every 30 minutes during high season. With prices starting at around €80 per night, we’d say it’s a really good pick for family trips.

Related Read: Before you go, check out our Spain packing list for our favorite travel items and must-haves for Spain!

Top Activities to do in Marbella

Now that you’ve picked the best area to stay in Marbella and found a hotel that fits your style, it’s time to start planning your itinerary. Will you spend the day by the pool or head out and soak it all in? If you want to make the most of your stay, here are the best things to do and see in Marbella. 

• See the scenery on a jeep tour – You can take in Andalusia’s natural beauty in a lot of ways, but one of the best is this full-day jeep tour. You’ll join a small group and head toward Parque Nacional Sierra de las Nieves, where you can stop for a swim in a river before continuing to Monda, a traditional white village, for a local lunch.

• Go canyoning – If you want to swap sightseeing for something more active, this guided canyoning adventure is a fun change. It involves swimming, climbing, and jumping (plus a bit of photo-taking, because how else will you prove you did it), but you don’t need to be super fit, as it’s suitable for families and pretty much all levels. 

• Take a day trip to Tangier – Once you’ve had your fill of Marbella, this all-inclusive private full-day tour to Tangier is well worth it. You’ll take a ferry from Tarifa and be there in about an hour, and from then on it’s wandering through squares, souks, caves, and fortresses. Hard to believe you can experience something so different in just one day.  

• Enjoy a sunset sail – This sunset cruise is a fun, easy way to see both Africa and Spain from the water. Our captain was lovely, there were plenty of snacks and drinks, and we even saw dolphins. Don’t forget your sailor hat, it makes for great photos!

• Take a tapas tour – Get to know the city through this tapas tour starting at Plaza de los Naranjos, with stops at the Marbella Food Market and Avenida del Mar. Along the way, you’ll try everything from Andalusian salmorejo and fried Malagueño bites to traditional desserts like torrija and nougat. We felt pretty full by the end, but somehow still made room for dinner. 

Thanks for reading!

Choosing where to stay in Marbella can really make or break your trip! Whether you’re splashing out for your holiday or exploring on a shoestring budget, you can find the right accommodation here. Be sure to book your hotel well in advance, as Marbella is one of Spain’s most up-and-coming destinations!

If you need help planning the rest of your trip, see all of our Europe blogs. We love helping fellow travelers plan their trip, from where to stay to multi-day itineraries, and our favorite things to do – we’ve got you covered!

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