Marbella is one of those cities that I visit regularly throughout the year. This time I came in December and enjoyed its microclimate thoroughly! – it was nearly 30C during the day and I even managed to get some suntan, along improving my golf, attending few vernissages and getting to know new people and enjoying myself with good old friends.
Marbella is a port city in the South of Spain – Andalucia, famous for its Puerto Banus, parties, incredible villas and sunshine throughout the year. You’ll find amazing restaurants, top-end boutiques, yachts, supercars, the beach, beachclubs etc. It is becoming even more popular than South of France these days, as life is much cheaper and more accessible / easy – going.
Crucially, I have co-written this blog post with my dear friend @gerardmarbella who has been living here for 30 years. Let’s dive in and select the Top 10 favs for Marbs:
1. Puente Romano
Vibrant part of the city with Nobu, Dani Garcia, La Suite, beach resort and its famous open air square / courtyard where people hang out all year long. My friends and I come here to spend the evenings, starting with great restaurants and then either having drinks and cigars in the square or going to La Suite for a great night out.
Even during the winter the place is buzzying, as they cover it with a tent-like structure and put some heating on. A visit to Marbella will never be complete without coming to Puente Romano at least once.
Address: Bulevar Principe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, s/n, 29602 Marbella & https://www.puenteromano.com/
2. Magna Club and Café
Marbella has several amazing golf courses, which attract European golfers throughout the year. Even during winter months, it is warm enough (around 20C) to enjoy golfing.
My personal favourite is Magna Club, which is located in the center and boasts a great café with wonderful views. Perfect place for a business lunch or a date as well. It also has an art gallery where Alejandro Hermann presents his art – absolute must-visit.
Address: Calle Calderón de la Barca, s/n, 29660 Marbella & https://www.magnacafe.com/
3. Marbella Club
Iconic hotel attracting actors and other famous people. Wonderful property and one of the oldest hotels in town. Lush gardens, amazing swimming pools, great interior design etc. It’s nice to come for a drink and cigar, and if staying at the hotel – it’s probably the option #1 for those who can afford it.
Address: Av. Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso de Hohenlohe, s/n, 29602 Marbella & https://www.marbellaclub.com/en/
4. Cappuccino
One of my favourite spots in Marbella due to its amazing views over the sea. Located on the beach, near the Gran Meliá hotel, it’s a trendy café with amazing cappuccinos. Even during December I enjoyed the coffee in shorts and polo shirt with sun shining on my face. Also popular during the evenings when coffees turn into cocktails. Great place to chill-out and enjoy the sea.
Address: José Meliá, s/n, Hotel Gran Meliá Don Pepe, Marbella, España & https://www.cappuccinograndcafe.es/en/marbella
5. Nikki Beach
Marbella has several fantastic beach clubs, which attract beautiful people from around the world. From the party–focused Ocean Club, through cosier Puro Beach, there is something for everyone. My personal favourite is Nikki Beach – a brand well established in places such as St Tropez, Dubai etc.
With amazing weather throughout the year, the beach clubs attract a lot of people who like to enjoy the sun while having a good time also 🙂
Address: Playa Hotel Don Carlos, Carretera de Cádiz Km 192, 29600 Marbella & https://www.nikkibeach.com/destinations/beach-clubs/marbella/
6. Puerto Banus
The famous port area where you can watch the rich and famous and their supercars and yachts. All key luxury brands have their presence there with their latest fashion items on display. Fancy restaurants are located on the first line to the sea all around Puerto Banus.
This is also a party zone with nightclubs open till the early morning. Famous summer and Christmas markets are situated at Plaza Antonio Banderas. We recommend to take the catamaran ferry (opposite the Sinatra Bar) to Marbella’s Puerto Deportivo and back.
Address: Playa Puerto Banus, Marbella & https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puerto_Ban%C3%BAs
7. Dezentral
My favorite breakfast spot with bulletproof coffee, ginger shots, healthy salads, smoothies etc, etc. Not only healthy, but also relaxed and innovative, the crowd is interesting and atmosphere excellent. Perfect start to an amazing day in Marbella.
Address: 20, Calle las Malvas Ed. Online 19 local nº, 29660 Marbella & http://www.dezentral-marbella.com/
8. Old Town & Alameda Park
The old town in Marbella is the historical center of the city with its charming boutique shops and restaurants. Plaza de los Naranjos (orange square) is the centre point of the old town. You can admire the remains of the Arabian castle, town hall and the Museo del Grabado.
Parque de la Alameda is located on the seaside of the old town (Casco Antiguo). It comprises of the collection of centenary trees, the round Spain fountain and benches to sit on in the shade and relax. Towards the seaside you will find the famous outdoor collection of Salvador Dali bronze sculptures before you end up at the Paseo Maritimo.
Address: Plaza de los Naranjos, 29601 Marbella & https://spainattractions.es/marbella-old-town/
9. Maï Sushi
Maï Sushi Fusion is one of the best-kept secrets in Marbella. It serves sushi and Asian fusion of the highest quality in a cosy setting. The team has been working together for many years and comprises of family members, some of whom are tuna fishers – providing the freshest produce possible. The chief is highly creative as well. Some of our favourites are tuna sashimi, foie nigiri, mojito nigiri; you should ask for suggestions though!
Address: Centro Commercial Guadalmina Alta Local 6 Edificio La caixa, 29678 Marbella & http://www.maifusion.com/
10. Shopping malls
La Cañada (in Marbella) and El Corte Ingles (in Puerto Banus) are the 2 biggest shopping malls in the city. They have free parking and the widest selection of brands, from high street to luxury. They also have a supermarket, which comes extremely handy to both people who just moved here as well as tourists. The malls are open from 10.00 to 22.00 all day except Sundays.
Address: Carretera de Ojén, s/n, 29602 Marbella & http://www.parquecomercial-lacanada.com/en & https://www.elcorteingles.es/centroscomerciales/en/eci/centros/centro-comercial-costa-marbella
To sum up, Marbella is one of the most interesting sunny destinations in the world. From beach clubs, golf courses, top restaurants, through art galleries and amazing villas, all the way to Puerto Banus and partying – everyone will find something for themselves.
Together with my friend @gerardmarbella, we hope that you will enjoy your stay in Marbella benefiting fully from the list we provided you with above.
What is more, we are planning 2 fashion shows in 2019, so stay tuned by following @fashionevents_spain
What are your favourite sunny destinations around the world? Let us know in the comments below!
Enjoy & safe travels!
MJ
P.S. Marbella is located 45-min from Malaga where the nearest international airport is located. While visiting Marbella, make sure to spend some time in Malaga, which is a more authentic, proper city where Pablo Picasso was born. You will enjoy not only amazing art and the seaside, but also fantastic restaurants, Alcazaba ect.
PS.2 Get 10% back on your hotel/apartment booking on booking.com using my code https://www.booking.com/s/57_6/7793bab0