What to do in Three Days in Marbella

The Complete Guide to Enjoy Marbella to the Fullest in Three Days

Marbella, located on the Costa del Sol, is known for its stunning beaches, nightlife, rich history and fascinating natural environment. If you are thinking about a getaway and do not know what to do in three days in Marbella, we present a complete guide to make the most of your time. Here we recommend what to do in Marbella, from dawn to dusk, so you can enjoy an unforgettable experience.

Day 1: Relax and Discover the Charm of Marbella

Morning: Beaches and Sun

Start your first day in Marbella with renewed energy by enjoying one of its beautiful beaches. If you are looking for a relaxed and familiar atmosphere, Playa de Venus is ideal. With its tranquil atmosphere and crystal clear waters, it is the perfect place to relax in the sun or try water sports. Another excellent option is Fontanilla Beach, which is more lively, with beach bars and a vibrant atmosphere.

Recommended activities:

• If you like water sports, you can rent a paddle surf board or try jet skiing.
• Take a walk along the Paseo Marítimo to enjoy the views of the sea and mountains. It’s the perfect way to start your day in Marbella, admiring the panorama.

Afternoon: Old Town and Local Culture

After a relaxing day at the beach, it’s time to head into the historic heart of Marbella. Head to the Old Town, a maze of narrow streets and squares full of history. Here, the white facades of the traditional Andalusian houses, the flower pots full of flowers and the orange trees in the squares will transport you to another era. Don’t forget to visit the Plaza de los Naranjos, where you can sit on one of the terraces and enjoy a tapa of Iberian ham accompanied by a glass of local wine.

In this area, you can also visit the Iglesia de la Encarnación, a beautiful 17th century temple with impressive architecture.

Recommended activities:

• Make a stop at the Museum of Contemporary Spanish Engraving, where works by artists such as Picasso and Dalí are on display. It’s an ideal way to immerse yourself in Spanish culture.
• If you have time, explore the local art galleries and craft stores.

Evening: Dinner and Nightlife

The nightlife in Marbella is vibrant, with a wide variety of restaurants and bars to suit all tastes. If you are looking for a unique dining experience, we recommend dining at Nobu Marbella, located in the luxurious Puerto Banus. It offers a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine that will not leave you indifferent.

If you prefer something more casual, there are many restaurants in the Old Town that offer typical Spanish dishes, such as tapas and paella. Marbella’s nightlife is also lively, with nightclubs such as Olivia Valere and Pangea attracting tourists and locals alike.

Recommended activities:

• If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, visit Tibu Marbella, one of the city’s most exclusive clubs, located in Puerto Banús.

Day 2: Shopping, Gastronomy and Luxury

Morning: Market and Shopping

Start the day enjoying the Municipal Market of Marbella. Here you can immerse yourself in the local culture and find fresh produce, such as fruits, fish and sausages, ideal for a culinary souvenir of the city.

Afterwards, it’s time to do some shopping. Marbella is known for its exclusivity and luxury, so Puerto Banús is the ideal area to find internationally renowned designer boutiques. Brands such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Cartier have stores here, offering the latest in fashion and accessories.

Recommended activities:

• If you prefer something more accessible but equally interesting, you can explore La Cañada Shopping Center, which has a wide variety of stores and entertainment options.
  Afternoon: Relax and Gastronomy

Afternoon: Relax and Gastronomy

For lunch, we recommend Restaurante El Lago, a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a unique culinary experience on the shores of a lake. Here you can enjoy Mediterranean cuisine with local and quality ingredients.

If you are looking for something more relaxed, Marbella Marina also has excellent options for lunch overlooking the sea. There are everything from fresh fish restaurants to more casual options, such as tapas and salads.

Recommended activities:

• Take a break to enjoy a coffee on a terrace in the port or in the old town. Marbella is famous for its relaxed atmosphere and pleasant climate, ideal for enjoying a refreshing drink.

Night: Show and Fun

Marbella’s nightlife is perfect for those who enjoy luxury, glamour and fun. After dinner, you can go to Ocean Club Marbella, one of the most exclusive beach clubs in town. Here you can relax with a glass of champagne or dance to electronic music until the wee hours of the morning.

Another excellent option for the night is the Marbella Casino, where you can try your luck in an elegant and relaxed atmosphere. If you prefer something quieter, there are numerous bars with live music, ideal for sipping a cocktail while enjoying a unique atmosphere.

Day 3: Adventure, Nature and White Villages

Morning: Hiking in the Sierra Blanca

The third day in Marbella is ideal to disconnect from the city and enjoy nature. Head to the Sierra Blanca, one of Marbella’s main natural areas. Here you can enjoy hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the city, the Mediterranean Sea and the mountains.

The most popular route is the Sendero de la Cruz de Juanar, a moderate trail that takes you up to a small peak with panoramic views. It’s a great way to experience the fresh mountain air and completely disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Recommended activities:

• Bring water and appropriate footwear to enjoy a comfortable hike in the mountains.
• If you like outdoor sports, you can also opt for a horseback ride or a mountain bike tour.

Afternoon: Escape to the Pueblos Blancos (White Villages)

If you have already explored the nature, it is time to discover the famous white villages of the region. Ronda is one of the most emblematic destinations and is less than an hour’s drive from Marbella. With its famous New Bridge that crosses the Tajo de Ronda, it is one of the most impressive landscapes in all of Spain.

Another option is to visit Mijas, a charming white village nestled in the mountains. Its narrow cobblestone streets, along with its sea views, offer a unique experience of traditional Andalusia.

Recommended activities:

• Be sure to try the homemade croquettes and tortillas in the village bars, a local delicacy.

Night: Quiet Dinner and Relaxation

To end your last day in Marbella, enjoy a quiet dinner at Dani Garcia Restaurant, an exclusive place that has been awarded with Michelin stars. If you prefer something more relaxed, there are local restaurants in San Pedro de Alcántara that offer Mediterranean food at more affordable prices.

After dinner, enjoy a last walk around the Plaza de los Naranjos to say goodbye to the city while admiring the illuminated night architecture.

Marbella is a destination that combines the best of the Costa del Sol: sun, luxury, nature and culture. In three days, you can enjoy its beaches, gastronomy, history and natural environment. Whether you like to relax in the sun, go hiking, shopping or enjoy a lively night out, Marbella has something for everyone – don’t miss the opportunity to discover this wonderful place!