The Marbella + Malaga Guide.

Marbella and Málaga are equal parts old-world charm and modern glamour—historic streets, beautiful coastlines, and an elevated, vibrant social scene, all set against the beauty of Andalusia.

I’m a little biased, given that I’m getting married in Marbella, but I’ve truly always loved this area. I didn’t think I could love it more than I already did, but time and time again, I find myself impressed by just how much the Andalusian coast has to offer. Marbella and Málaga are beautiful, vibrant, and full of soul. Between the charming old towns, palm-lined promenades, long beach lunches, and warm Mediterranean evenings, there’s an ease to life here that instantly makes you slow down. The food is incredible; from simple grilled seafood by the water to lively dinners that somehow stretch late into the night. Marbella feels polished and glamorous without losing its warmth, while Málaga brings history, culture, and an energy that’s all its own. It’s the kind of destination that feels both joyful and grounding, balancing beauty, fun, and a true sense of place.

The full map is available at the bottom of the page for paid subscribers. For custom itineraries, feel free to email carolinehariri@gmail.com

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M A R B E L L A

Food

• Beachside locations:

  • NOSSO Summer Club Marbella (fun, beach club vibes)

  • Restaurante El Lago Marbella (great for a special occasion)

  • MC Beach (the most aesthetically pleasing restaurant on this list! Poolside with delicious food, located in the Marbella Club)

  • La Milla (excellent food right on the beach)

  • El Patio at the Marbella Club (romantic, elegant and incredible food)

  • Sea Grill (part of Puente Romano’s hotel, delicious and right on the sea)

  • GAIA Marbella (Greek restaurant located in Puente Romano’s hotel)

  • Marisquería El Ancla (fresh seafood)

  • Besaya Beach (creative seafood dishes)

  • La Plage Casanis (elevated beachfront spot with seafood)

• In the hills/non-beach spots:

  • Mercado Municipal de Marbella (beautiful local market with fresh, local foods)

  • Alba Marbella (great food)

  • Cascada (the most beautiful outdoor garden)

  • Magna Café Marbella (great lunch spot overlooking PG by Magna Golf)

  • 11:11 Société (great Mexican, very beautiful decor)

  • Restaurante Skina (a 2-Michelin hidden gem in old town)

Hotels

• The Marbella Club (slightly biased, given it’s where I’m getting married this fall, but it’s objectively one of the most timeless and iconic hotels in the world, let alone in Costa del Sol)

• Nobu Hotel Marbella

• Don Carlos (new hotel)

• Puente Romano (Marbella Club’s sister hotel, a little more family friendly, resort-like)

• La Fonda Heritage Hotel, Relais & Châteaux (very quaint and authentic small hotel in old town)

• Finca Cortesin (beautiful luxury hotel up in the hills)

• La Zambra Resort - The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

• METT Marbella - Estepona (decent rooms, but the pool/beach area is excellent)

• Buchinger Wilhelmi (specialized wellness clinic in Marbella)

• Kimpton Los Monteros Marbella (excellent value for a 5-star hotel)

Activities

• See Marbella’s old town, including the Plaza De Los Naranjos (orange square) as well as the statue of Salvador Dali, who used to vacation in Marbella

• Hiking Trails

• Day trip to Caminito del Rey hiking

• La Concha hike (about 6 hours with sweeping views)

• Benahavís - Montemayor (2-3 hour hike that leads to Montemayor Castle)

• The Xarblanca – Ermita de los Monjes hiking trail (nice hike of the Monks’ Hermitage with beautiful streams, around 1.5-2 hours)

• Golf! Countless courses all around Costa del Sol - one favorite is Finca Cortesin

• Spa (personal favorites are the Marbella Club and Nobu hotel)

• Boating with Scansail Marbella or Saga Puerto Banus - good place to see dolphins!

• Play tennis at the beautiful Puente Romano Tennis Club

• Check out the beautiful yachts at Puerto Banús port - either to walk around or go to one of the many glamorous beach clubs for day or night partying (personal favorites are Nikki Beach. La Cabane and Ocean Club)

• Day trips:

  • Pedregalejo - a beautiful fishing town

  • Ronda, stunning town with a dramatic bridge and near the wine country

  • Nerja, relaxed seaside town

  • Frigiliana, a Moorish hillside village

• Shopping

  • Boutiques around the old town

  • El Corte Inglés Marbella (the high-end Spanish chains’ Marbella location)

  • Shop at Puerto Banús’ high-end shops including everything from Gucci and Loewe to Zara.

  • Sunday market also in Puerto Banús’

M A L A G A

Food

• Bodega El Pimpi (part owned by Antonio Banderas and absolutely delicious!)

• La Farola de Orellana (delicious Andalusian bistro)

• Trocadero Casa de Botes (right on the dock!)

• Casa Lola (very easy, casual tapas chain)

• José Carlos García Restaurante (fancy, tasting menu)

• Bar La Tranca (great, lowkey tapas bar)

• El Refectorium Catedral (great simple Spanish dishes)

Hotels

• Cristine Bedfor Guest Houses Málaga (absolutely stunning boutique hotel in the areas largest city)

• Hotel Molina Lario (great option in Málaga)

• Palacio Solecio (feels so grand and luxurious, you wouldn’t believe this is just a small 4-star hotel)

• Hotel Catalonia Molina Lario (really cute, simple boutique with a rooftop pool)

• Hotel Miramar (beautiful and very grand, right on the water)

Activities

• Museo Picasso in Málaga

• Sky plane tour with Real Aereclub de Málaga

• Centre Pompidou Mála

Other great locations nearby:

Hotels

• Finca La Donaira (further away from the coast, a rustic hotel with horseback riding, wellness and amazing farm-to-table food in Andalusia)

Map linked below for access to all these locations: