Tourist Information

Marbella is one of the Mediterranean's most representative tourist venues and a top favorite for travelers. What was once a small white village of fishermen is now one of the most cosmopolitan places on the Costa del Sol with one of the most famous sports ports of the Mediterranean, Puerto Banus, where some of the most famous yachts have anchored. The municipal district of Marbella is situated in the heart of the western Costa del Sol, between the sierras of the coastal mountain range and the sea to which it looks out along 24 kilometers of coast. Marbella County covers a total area of 114.3 sq km. It comprises of several important urban sites: Marbella, San Pedro de Alcántara, Puerto Banús, Nueva Andalucia and Las Chapas, as well as several suburbs. The population amounted to 98,377 voting people, although it is estimated to grow over 105,000 over the next 2 years. Marbella is surrounded by Estepona, Benahavís, Istán, Ojén y Mijas.

Marbella's impressive infrastructure of yacht harbors, golf courses, medical facilities, its closeness to Malaga airport are key features, along with good roads, and a beautiful, safe and uniquely historic urban environment. This residential or holiday Jet-set centre, with its millionaires and celebrities makes a nice clean secure and well maintained Marbella. Its boulevards, Tropical parks and gardens add to the splendor...

But although a modern town, Marbella is full of history, its origins date back to 1.600 BC so it's fair to say there is a little part of history to be found in every corner of the "old town", with its Moorish castle, and famous "Orange Square". The historical old quarter with the Andalucian/Moorish mix can still be found with its flower filled balconies and narrow streets. Pungent fragrances intoxicate you on of every turn. There is something for everyone in Marbella, from its spectacular natural environment and outstanding beaches to its most sophisticated hotels and super restaurants offering refined cooking from around the world.

Spain boasts a rich variety of gastronomic pleasures that could only be brought about by its unique climatic and cultural diversity. Cuisine in Spain is family cooking and characterized by fresh ingredients. The paella (rice with shellfish), together with gazpacho and ajoblanco, cold soups, are the familiar dishes. For the rest, the "pescaito frito" fried fish, is at its height as it has become a great attraction for visitors.

In the narrow, winding pedestrian streets and squares of old town Marbella, hanging, eating tapas and exploring the small art galleries and boutiques are the primary activities. Sound wafts from a local music school and the pace is leisurely. El Museo de Grabado (Print Museum) mounts exhibitions on contemporary printmaking and also has a museum shop selling fine art prints. Down the hill near the shore, a formerly dilapidated community is now the alluring clubbing area in Marbella.

For sophistication, the aptly named "La Mila de Oro" (Golden Mile) from Marbella to Puerto Banus ranks with the best spots on the French Riviera. Home to high-performance automobiles, high-end shopping and high-maintenance women, Puerto Banus is an elegant marina town just west of Marbella. Its seafood restaurants, clubbing and eye candy are all excellent. A shoreline stroll along the promenade near the Marbella Club allowing peeks into the manicured grounds of elegant mansions is sufficient to make even a penitent monk yearn to be filthy rich.

The Spanish Costa del Sol has long been known to have the best climate in Europe with 320 days of sun per year and temperatures ranging from 16 to 30 degrees Celsius (61 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit) all year Due to the geographic situation of Marbella it has an exceptionally mild microclimate, protected by the impressive Sierra Blanca mountain range, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere provided by a broad mix of nationalities, races and religions coexisting side by side.

Recently the Costa del Sol has being re dubbed the "Costa del Golf" this is in response to the spectacular Golf Courses that have been designed by the likes of Seve Ballesteros, Peter Alliss and Clive Clark. There are more than 40 quality courses to be played throughout the Costa del Sol making it a perfect destination for the golf enthusiast.

With its privileged climate, luxury accommodation, fabulous sports facilities and not forgetting the natural warmth of the town; Marbella is a destination to be reckoned with. There are many large cities near by with lots of cultural spots to visit: Malaga, Granada, and Sevilla, you're also facing the coast of Africa with frequent short trips leaving from Algerciras. Marbella is very accessible with two airports to choose from (Gibraltar & Malaga) excellent roads and not forgetting the luxury ports.

Great beaches, great climate and a unique offer in sports, gastronomy and entertainment ... a visit of Marbella is a guarantee for unforgettable memories.