Marbella
A super fancy and delicious Mediterranean place
Marbella is one of the major resorts of the Costa del Sol, and it is very sunny during a big part of the year (18.7°C is the annual and daily average temperature). Despite corruption scandals and property speculation, Marbella is still a meeting point for bankers, oil sheiks, sport stars and fashion models. Marbella is not only popular because of the 26 km long coast and the healthy climate, but also because of the small, well-preserved centre.
This city is all about tourism and all of its citizens are doing their best to ensure that Marbella remains as the favourite destination of all of the Mediterranean area. It is also known for Its four seaports, numerous golf courses the big luxury hotels and the area known as ‘La Milla de Oro’(The Golden Mile). Puerto Banús, a little further, is one of the most prestigious seaports of the Mediterranean. And now, for those who prefer to know the old part of the city, we would like to advise the delicious Mediterranean spots and restaurants in the Old Town of Marbella.
The Old Town of Marbella
white streets, flowered balconies and La Plaza de los Naranjos
The old town of Marbella is one of the most beautiful in Andalusia. There is a beautifully preserved area, with white streets and flowered balconies. In the centre is located La Plaza de los Naranjos (The Orange Square), with a Renaissance fountain from 1604, the Ermita de Santiago (the first Christian church in the city), la Casa del Corregidor (17th century) and the City Hall (from the 16th century). At the square of Iglesia de la Encarnación (one of the churches of the city from the 17th century) there is a statute of the patron saint of the city, San Bernabe. The castle is also located in the centre, which dates from the Arab period (probably from the 9th century).
The Mercado Municipal (the local market) is worth a visit. It is opened from Monday until Saturday (from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm) and has a lot of of fresh fish, meat, vegetables and herbs. At the Puerto Pesquero (one of the seaports) the boats arrive with fresh fish around 4:00 pm.
One of the most Spanish and top class restaurants is the Altamirano. This seafood restaurant, with tiles along the walls, Formica tables and a lot of light, is full every night and guarantees a delicious fish meal.
Paseo Maritimo with expansive beaches
From the old town to the beach, the road goes through the Parque de la Alameda, a park with botanical gardens and beautiful ceramic benches, to the Avenida del Mar. This boulevard is decorated with sculptures designed by Salvador Dali.
Along the sea, runs the Paseo Maritimo, from the old fishing port to Puerto Banus. Many Marbellian people use this walking to do some fitness, running or cycling. There are also fitness equipment here and there and along the promenade you will find restaurants, “chirinquitos” and terraces everywhere. A nice one to stop for a drink or to have lunch is the one called Cappuccino, (in calle José Meliá), where you can have a nice lunch or dinner and some drinks.
Beaches in Marbella
A short 15 minute drive from Ojén, takes you to the closest beaches, you can choose from quiet, deserted beaches, beaches with typical Spanish chiringuitos to the more lavish beach clubs of Marbella. Thanks to its sheltered position at the foot of the Sierra Blanca, this area enjoys a mild, sunny climate all year round. Occasionally it’s even warm enough to spend a few hours on the beach in January.
The hotel can tell you where to go.
Annual events
The processions during “Semana Santa” (Holy Week)
Feria of “San Bernabe”, on June 11th
Festivity of “la Virgen del Carmen”, on July 16th
Nightlife in Marbella
The nightlife of Marbella is full of life. You can start a night out in the old town, next to the Puerto Deportivo or Puerto Banus, and finish it in one of the trendy bars, discos or nightclubs. The most known is Olivia Valere, a trendy Arabic inspired club, frequented by stars and their supporters during many years.
For restaurants we can advise you where to go, there is really a lot of different possibilities, from beach bars and tapas restaurants to more star fancy restaurants.
Shopping
With Marbella and Puerto Banus Marina around the corner, there are several options for shopping enthusiasts. In Puerto Banus, you can find the expensive clothing brands and various galleries. There is also a big shopping centre called El Corte Ingles.
In Ojén, there are many groceries that sell almost everything. From cold beer to do-it-yourself things. Watch out: in almost everywhere in Spain, shops close after half past six.
More extensive shopping can be done at La Cañada, the big shopping centre in the outskirts of Marbella.
Furthermore, markets and flea markets are held every week.
Puerto Banus
Puerto Banus, Marbella’s seaport with approximately 1,000 berths, is one of the symbols of Marbella. There you can find the most luxurious yachts in the world, and even though it is less exclusive than before, Puerto Banus is still one of the main harbors for yachts in the Mediterranean. Along the harbour, there are white buildings of Arab-Andalusian style, where luxury shops, restaurants, bars and ice cream parlors are located. You can also find El Corte Ingles, a very large shopping centre.