Estepona or Marbella? A Travel Comparison

Is Estepona or Marbella better?

It depends on the type of holiday you want. Marbella is perfect for all travellers. Whether you want to go to the most luxurious beach clubs in Costa del Sol, spend a romantic getaway in the old town or explore its natural surroundings, Marbella is for you.

Estepona has a more relaxing vibe that is ideal for families. It has a lesser international atmosphere but plenty of things to do and lovely beaches.

As a local, it’s challenging to choose which is better because I think both destinations have different things to offer. However, in this blog, I’m going to compare the main aspects you’d consider, such as attractions, proximity to the airport, excursions and more.

This travel comparison between Estepona and Marbella will help you decide which destination is best for you.

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Estepona or Marbella: Attractions

Estepona

Estepona is home to many incredible attractions. Before I visited its historic centre for the first time, I wasn’t sure if there was enough to do, but after visiting it, I can confirm there is plenty to do in Estepona and its surroundings.

Estepona’s main highlight is its old town. It’s considered one of the most beautiful old towns in the province of Malaga, and it’s commonly known as “Jardín de la Costa del Sol”, which translates to the garden of Costa del Sol.

The old town is bigger than the one in Marbella, and you’ll absolutely love its cobblestone streets, beautiful flower pots (which have different colours according to the street), tranquil squares to enjoy a coffee, and monuments.

In fact, you can take a few walking routes depending on your interests – from exploring all the picturesque streets to discovering statues or street art. These are self-guided walks, so you can do them at your own pace. You can find the maps on the Estepona website.

Visiting Estepona with children? Selwo Aventura is perfect for kids of all ages. This safari, located just before arriving in Estepona town, has over 2,000 animals to learn about and adventure activities, such as ziplining and archery.

Other fun activities to do in Estepona with kids include visiting the Orchid House, spending the day at the beach and going on a short hike.

Marbella

Marbella is one of the most popular destinations in Costa del Sol. Its charming atmosphere and wide variety of activities make travellers fall in love with this town.

If there’s one place you must see in Marbella, it’s its old town. It’s my favourite part of Marbella, and once you’re there, you’ll understand why.

Its pretty whitewashed streets decorated with flower pots, its vibrant atmosphere in Plaza de los Naranjos, and its bohemian independent clothing shops, among other things, make it a charming place.

Marbella old town is also home to historic buildings like Castillo de Marbella (the remaining walls of Marbella’s Castle), statues and the Museum of Spanish Contemporary Engravings.

Another popular area in Marbella is Puerto Banús, considered one of the most luxurious ports in Europe: expensive yachts, shops from worldwide known brands like Gucci and restaurants overlooking the port.

Estepona or Marbella: Accommodation

Estepona

Estepona has incredible family-friendly hotels, affordable hostels right in the old town, and 4 and 5-star hotels on the beachfront.

If you want to be close to the main attractions and the beach, I suggest staying in or near the historic centre. However, if you prefer a quiet holiday, stay outside Estepona and consider renting a car to travel around easily.

Marbella

The accommodation range in Marbella is extensive. There are luxury 5-star hotels with incredible facilities to keep you entertained all day long, adults-only hotels next to the beach, beautiful and unique apartments in the picturesque old town of Marbella, and the list goes on.

Although many people believe Marbella is expensive, you can also find affordable accommodation near attractions.

Estepona or Marbella: Beaches

Estepona

Estepona has 23 km of coastline and over 15 beaches to soak up the sun and have a fantastic day relaxing at the beach.

You’re spoilt for choice from golden sand beaches, tranquil waters, and beautiful views of the Strait of Gibraltar. Whether you want a family-friendly beach with excellent facilities or to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in nature, there’s a beach in Estepona for you.

Marbella

As happens with Estepona, Marbella also has an extensive coastline. There are beaches for all travellers – beaches where you can relax and enjoy the beach without crowds, beaches where you can sip a cocktail while listening to live music and family-friendly beaches.

Estepona or Marbella: Transport

Estepona

Moving around Estepona by bus isn’t easy, and the town isn’t as well-connected via public transport as other coastal towns in Costa del Sol.

If you choose Estepona over Marbella, you definitely need to rent a car. The bus station in Estepona is very small (it doesn’t look like a proper bus station) and it isn’t in the centre, you must walk for about 20 minutes, which isn’t ideal when you need to carry a backpack or drag a big suitcase.

A rental car will give you the freedom to discover all the areas in Estepona and its surroundings.

Marbella

Public transport in Marbella is good, depending on the area you stay. If you stay in the centre of Marbella, you can find plenty of taxis and buses travelling around Marbella and its surrounding towns.

However, if you plan a trip to Malaga or other bigger destinations, the Marbella bus station is the place to go.

If you stay in Puerto Banus or other areas of Marbella, you need to know that buses aren’t good. Buses aren’t on time, and the options are limited, so I don’t recommend public transport.

The best way to move around Marbella is by car. You’ll have more freedom to visit different areas, as Marbella is big, and go on day trips to other lovely whitewashed towns.

Estepona or Marbella: Prices

Estepona

If you’re looking for the most affordable holiday without compromising on fantastic attractions and beaches, Estepona is your best option.

Although you can find expensive and luxurious accommodation in Estepona, it’s cheaper than its neighbour town, Marbella.

Marbella

Marbella is one of the most expensive beach cities in Costa del Sol. However, you can also visit Marbella on a budget; I know that as a local.

Estepona or Marbella: Nightlife

Estepona

Estepona has two main areas for going out with friends or your partner. If you want to start the evening by having drinks and tapas, go to the centre, home to many lively restaurants, bars and clubs that often close at about 4 am.

The most famous place in Estepona to go out is Estepona’s Port. You’ll find the best clubs and terraces in this area. However, some of them aren’t open all year round.

An alternative is to visit nearby locations like Sotogrande (25 minute drive) or Puerto Banús (20 minute drive).

Marbella

Who hasn’t heard of Marbella’s nightlife? It’s one of the things Marbella is known for.

Marbella offers a more upscale nightlife experience than other Costa del Sol towns, especially if you go clubbing in Puerto Banús.

You actually don’t need to wait until the night to start the party. Famous beach clubs like Nikki Beach and Ocean Club Marbella have fantastic live entertainment, cocktails, and events you’ll definitely want to attend.

Estepona or Marbella: Restaurants

Estepona

Estepona is home to many restaurants and beach bars where you can enjoy traditional Spanish dishes and delicious fresh fish.

There are plenty of options in the historic centre as well as on the coast. On the beach promenade, you’ll find great chiringuitos (beach bars) serving typical dishes in Malaga, like espetos de sardinas (sardine skewers) and fantastic seafood.

When it comes to international cuisine, you’ll mostly find Italian restaurants and a few Mexican and Asian.

Marbella

Marbella has become a culinary destination because of all the fantastic Michelin-star and fine-dining restaurants you can find. Local chefs come up with unique dishes that combine traditional Andalusian flavours with modern cooking techniques.

But it isn’t all about fine dining; you can also enjoy a good meal at many regular restaurants and bars. My top advice is to avoid where the tourists go. For example, don’t eat a meal at Plaza de los Naranjos. Walk a little bit further to have a better and often cheaper meal.

Another great thing about the Marbella food scene is the variety of international cuisines you can find. You don’t necessarily need to eat Spanish tapas; you can eat Italian, Japanese, French dishes and more.

Estepona or Marbella: Day trips and activities

Estepona

Estepona isn’t far from beautiful whitewashed towns (pueblos blancos) in Malaga and Cadiz.

You can go on a winery tour to Ronda, a day trip to Marbella or lesser-known towns like Casares or Ojen, take excellent hikes, or enjoy Cadiz’s incredible beaches. 

Another excellent day trip from Estepona is Gibraltar. It’s only a 50-minute drive, and you’ll be able to tick off another country from your bucket list.

Gibraltar is a fantastic day trip for all ages. Go shopping, visit the Rock of Gibraltar, see St Michael’s Cave, soak up the breathtaking views in the Upper Nature Reserve and spend the day at Catalan Bay.

Marbella

As happens with Estepona, Marbella is also very close to charming whitewashed towns. 

Some of the best day trips from Marbella include Malaga, Mijas Pueblo and Ronda. 

It all depends on the type of experience you want. Visit Malaga for a full day of sightseeing or explore an authentic Andalusian whitewashed town like Mijas Pueblo. 

Estepona or Marbella: Proximity to airport

Estepona

Estepona is 1 hour drive from Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport. 

The best way to travel from Estepona to Malaga airport is by car, but you can also get a bus from Estepona coach station.

Looking for a detailed guide on how to go from Malaga Airport to Estepona? Read this guide.

Marbella

Marbella is a 40 minute drive from Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport. 

It’s easy to travel from Marbella to the airport. The road is very safe and straightforward, and you can go by car or bus from Marbella bus station. 

Looking for a detailed guide on how to go from Malaga Airport to Marbella? Read this guide.

Extra: expat life in Estepona and Marbella

Conclusion on Marbella or Estepona travel comparison

Which is better: Estepona or Marbella? This really depends on the type of activities you enjoy doing. I have a soft spot for Marbella, but Estepona is equally beautiful.

Marbella is a destination for everyone because of the diversity of things to do, while Estepona is quieter, more traditional and better for families looking for a more relaxing atmosphere.

Both coastal towns are close to each other, so you also have the opportunity to visit both on the same trip.

If you have any questions about Estepona or Marbella, drop them below.

Enjoy your holiday!

Cristina x

Top things to check before visiting Marbella or Estepona

• Check out cheap flights to Malaga Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) here.
• Look at this Malaga food guide to eat the best typical food in the area.
• Are you looking for the best accommodation in Costa del Sol? Check out Booking.com
• Book a free walking tour with GuruWalk.
• Rent a car to travel with ease around Marbella and Estepona.
• Book travel insurance for your trip. It’s a must for any holiday.

Read more travel guides about Costa del Sol

• 30+ Best Things to Do in Marbella, Spain
• A Guide To Marbella Old Town
• The Ultimate Guide to Estepona Old Town
• 26 Fantastic Things to Do in Estepona
• 19 Beautiful Beaches in Malaga and Costa del Sol

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