The Best Time to Visit Marbella (with local tips!)
Are you wondering when is the best time to visit Marbella? I’ve got you covered.
The reality is that Marbella is an all-year-round destination; there’s never a bad time to visit it.
You can soak up the sun at the beach and enjoy the lively atmosphere until late evening in the summer, hike in spring or experience the Christmas celebrations.
As a local, I can guarantee you that you’ll enjoy your time in Marbella regardless of the season.
Let’s dive into the weather and the best things to do each season.
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Marbella in spring
Weather
Marbella in March
- Highest temperature: 18ºC / 64ºF
- Lowest temperature: 9ºC / 48ºF
- Average temperature: 14ºC / 57ºF
- Average rain days: 7
Marbella in April
- Highest temperature: 21ºC / 70ºF
- Lowest temperature: 11ºC / 52ºF
- Average temperature: 16ºC / 61ºF
- Average rain days: 4
Marbella in May
- Highest temperature: 23ºC / 73ºF
- Lowest temperature: 13ºC / 55ºF
- Average temperature: 18ºC / 64ºF
- Average rain days: 3
Things to do in Marbella in spring
Spring is my favourite season, and spring in Marbella won’t disappoint you.
The main event in spring in Marbella is Easter, which usually takes place at the end of March and the beginning of April. During the Holy Week, you can see traditional religious processions or parades.
The streets of Marbella fill up with locals and tourists who want to see the impressive religious parades. Even if you aren’t religious, it’s worth seeing as it gives you an insight into the local culture.
Although spring is warm in Marbella, as it can reach up to 25 degrees Celsius (77ºF), choose May over March and April if you’re looking for more of a summer holiday.
May is quieter and more budget-friendly than the summer months, and some beach clubs have also started opening for the season.
Another reason I love Marbella in spring is the flowers. Bougainvillea flowers blossom and cover the white-painted buildings of the old town, making it very picturesque and pretty.
The only con of visiting Marbella in spring is that there’s a small chance of rain and a big temperature difference between day and night. Just be aware that March is one of the rainiest months.
Marbella in summer
Weather
Marbella in June
- Highest temperature: 27ºC / 81ºF
- Lowest temperature: 17ºC / 63ºF
- Average temperature: 22ºC / 72ºF
- Average rain days: 2
Marbella in July
- Highest temperature: 29ºC / 84ºF
- Lowest temperature: 19ºC / 66ºF
- Average temperature: 24ºC / 75ºF
- Average rain days: 0
Marbella in August
- Highest temperature: 29ºC / 84ºF
- Lowest temperature: 19ºC / 66ºF
- Average temperature: 24ºC / 75ºF
- Average rain days: 0
Things to do in Marbella in summer
Marbella is known for being a summer holiday destination. Its beautiful blue flag beaches, lively atmosphere and nightlife scene make it a favourite.
I love summer in Marbella, but it isn’t for everyone as it’s scorching during these months.
It isn’t a time for sightseeing and exploring nearby towns but for doing all the water activities and making the most of the beach clubs, which are only open for the season.
Go to the beach, relax by the pool, watch the sunset from Puerto Banus and enjoy a dinner alfresco while listening to music and people-watching.
Although Marbella doesn’t have any water park attractions, you can visit them in other coastal towns, like the ones in Mijas (AquaMijas) and Torremolinos (Aqualand).
My top recommendation is to stay somewhere with a pool or next to the beach, as the warm temperatures will make you want to stay in the water most of the day. Puente Romano has a bit of everything – beach, pool, live entertainment and more.
Local Tip!
Are you visiting Marbella in June? Don’t miss Feria de San Benarbé (Marbella’s Fair), which usually starts on the 6th of June.
Marbella in autumn
Weather
Marbella in September
- Highest temperature: 26ºC / 79ºF
- Lowest temperature: 17ºC / 63ºF
- Average temperature: 22ºC / 72ºF
- Average rain days: 3
Marbella in October
- Highest temperature: 22ºC / 79ºF
- Lowest temperature: 14ºC / 57ºF
- Average temperature: 18ºC / 64ºF
- Average rain days: 4
Marbella in November
- Highest temperature: 18ºC / 64ºF
- Lowest temperature: 10ºC / 50ºF
- Average temperature: 14ºC / 57ºF
- Average rain days: 7
Things to do in Marbella in autumn
Autumn is a good time to visit Marbella, but you might want to choose one month over another, depending on the activities you wish to do.
For example, September is still fairly warm in Marbella, so you can make the most of these hot days by visiting the beach, waterparks and beach clubs.
Most water attractions, beach restaurants, and clubs close at the beginning of October, with temperatures gradually dropping as the month passes.
This is a perfect time to sightsee and explore other towns and cities near Marbella. For example, you can visit Granada and its Alhambra for a day full of history, culture and architecture.
If you prefer smaller towns, Ronda is the one to visit in autumn. Immerse yourself in the wine culture (this is the best time to taste local wines!) and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.
For foodies like me, autumn is a fantastic time to visit Marbella. Enjoy regional products like raisins, almonds and chestnuts.
Last but not least, November is the best month for hiking. In nearby towns, you can see the beautiful autumn foliage.
Marbella in winter
Weather
Marbella in December
- Highest temperature: 16ºC / 61ºF
- Lowest temperature: 8ºC / 46ºF
- Average temperature: 12ºC / 54ºF
- Average rain days: 5
Marbella in January
- Highest temperature: 15ºC / 59ºF
- Lowest temperature: 6ºC / 43ºF
- Average temperature: 11ºC / 52ºF
- Average rain days: 5
Marbella in February
- Highest temperature: 16ºC / 61ºF
- Lowest temperature: 7ºC / 45ºF
- Average temperature: 12ºC / 54ºF
- Average rain days: 5
Things to do in Marbella in winter
I often get asked, “Is winter a good time to visit Marbella?”
My short answer is yes. Marbella in winter is fantastic if you want to escape the cold weather and prefer a quieter atmosphere, excluding the Christmas period.
This is also a good time to travel to Marbella if you want to save money, as you can find cheap flights from many European destinations.
December is magical in Marbella; its pretty twinkling Christmas lights, white-painted buildings decorated with Christmas decorations and Christmas markets are worth seeing.
As much as I love Christmas in Marbella, don’t expect the stereotypical European Christmas, as the weather and traditions are very different.
Also, I’d choose Malaga over Marbella when it comes to Christmas lights and markets. There’s much more in Malaga, which is unsurprising as it’s the main city in the province.
Christmas lasts from the 22nd of December to the 7th of January.
Last but not least, you can eat delicious winter dishes that you wouldn’t think of eating in the summer because of the heat. Try traditional stews like puchero andaluz, gazpachuelo or potaje de berzas.
BEST ACTIVITIES IN MARBELLA TO DO ALL YEAR ROUND
Frequently asked questions about Marbella
What’s the best time to go to Marbella for nightlife?
The best time to visit Marbella for parties is summer. July and August are the liveliest months, and you’ll often find festivals and fairs taking place.
What are the rainy months in Marbella?
November is the rainiest month in Marbella. It rains 7 days on average. It also usually rains towards the end of March and the beginning of April.
What is the hottest month for Marbella?
The hottest month in Marbella is July, with an average of 24ºC (75ºF). However, temperatures can reach 40 degrees.
Can you sunbathe in Marbella in October?
Yes, especially at the beginning of the month when the weather hasn’t changed much from the summer months.
Is Marbella busy in March?
No, March isn’t a very busy month in Marbella. You’ll see more crowds at Easter, at the beginning of April.
Conclusion on the best time to visit Marbella
In summary, there’s no wrong time to visit Marbella. No matter which season you choose, you’ll find something to do, from taking a Marbella boat trip and soaking up the sun to hiking scenic trails and enjoying the local cuisine.
Choose winter to escape the cold and rainy days, spring for traditional events like Holy Week (Semana Santa), summer for beaches and nightlife and autumn for hiking.
Late spring is the best time for me to visit Marbella. You can go sightseeing, go to the beach and water parks, visit the beach clubs and enjoy the lively atmosphere in the old town.
Do you have any questions about Marbella? Leave them in the comments or join my Facebook group, and I’ll be happy to help you.
Enjoy your trip to Marbella!
Cristina x
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Things to do before visiting Marbella
- Check out cheap flights to Malaga Airport (AGP), the closest to Marbella.
- Are you looking for the best accommodation? Check out this Marbella hotel guide.
- Have a look at this Malaga food guide to indulge yourself in eating the best typical food.
- Book the best activities and tours in Marbella with Get Your Guide.
- Stay connected with your loved ones with Airalo. The best eSIM card available in over 200 countries.
- Rent a car to travel with ease around Marbella and Costa del Sol.
- Book travel insurance for your trip. This is a must for any trip!
