Fuengirola or Marbella? Travel Comparison By a Local
Are you travelling to the Costa del Sol and wondering whether you should stay in Marbella or Fuengirola? This article includes a detailed comparison of these two beach towns.
I spend quite a bit of time in Marbella and have visited Fuengirola many times as I’m from the Costa del Sol.
If you want my honest opinion, I prefer Marbella over Fuengirola. Don’t get me wrong; both towns are popular for a reason, but I think Fuengirola is more touristy.
Some areas of Fuengirola are run-down and others feel very English. In contrast, Marbella has areas like the historic centre which keeps its charm and you can also experience a more sophisticated vibe in places like Puerto Banus.
Below, I’ll cover every single aspect of which town is better.
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Attractions
I wouldn’t say Marbella or Fuengirola are the best destinations for sightseeing. While you find attractions and museums, you’re better off visiting Malaga.
However, if we’re focusing on Marbella and Fuengirola, Marbella has more to see than Fuengirola.
The historic centre of Marbella is famous for its white-painted cobblestone streets, which are typical of Andalusia. Although I recommend wandering its pretty streets and taking photos, there’s more to it.
You can definitely do a self-guided walking tour, but if you’re into history, I’d book a guided tour. You’ll be surprised by the town’s history. In any case, don’t miss Marbella Castle, Encarnacion Church and Plaza de los Naranjos.
On the other hand, Fuengirola still has some top things to do, such as visiting the Sohail Castle, which has lovely coastal views, by the way, and seeing the street art in the El Boquetillo neighbourhood.
Visiting Fuengirola with kids? Add Bioparc to your itinerary, the only zoo on the Costa del Sol.
Accommodation
Fuengirola and Marbella have many accommodation options, from holiday homes to camping spots and hotels.
Fuengirola is best for travellers looking for budget-friendly accommodation. Although some hotels feel a bit old, you can literally see the façade need a coat of paint, it’s possible to find good options.
In contrast, Marbella is more expensive and attracts travellers looking for a more glamorous and unique hotel experience. And you can certainly have those in resorts like Marbella Club, Puente Romano Beach Resort and Boho Club. I’m not saying finding affordable options is impossible, but it’s more complicated.
I would pick Fuengirola or its surroundings unless you want a luxury experience or quiet stay with your other half.
Food
Asking yourself what the food is like in Fuengirola and Marbella?
Since both towns are in the province of Malaga, you won’t notice much difference when it comes to Spanish cuisine. You’ll find the same traditional dishes.
The difference is in the establishments. I don’t know many good places to eat in Fuengirola, but I can tell you quite a few in Marbella.
First, if you want Spanish cuisine, you’ll have a difficult time finding a good Andalusian restaurant in Fuengirola. Be careful with tourist traps. Some places claim to serve authentic tapas while they’re truly a disappointment.
Second, many restaurants are just built for tourists. Yes, I’m talking about the bars with chalkboards saying “full English breakfast” and “3 euros pint.” Sorry. While I think it’s great to have international restaurants, there are just way too many.
Regarding restaurants in Marbella, it’s possible to find good authentic taverns like La Niña del Pisto (my favourite) and Casa Blanca, and international restaurants that are worth the hype.
Also, Marbella has become an important culinary spot on the Costa del Sol. There are quite a few Michelin-star restaurants.
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Beaches
If you come for the beaches, both towns have fantastic beaches, some have even rewarded with Blue Flags for their facilities and accessibility.
I find it difficult to pick which one has better beaches. Playa de la Calahonda in Fuengirola is always a good option.
I also love Playa de Nagüeles and Playa de Cabopino in Marbella. The latter is my favourite by far. Enjoy the warm and sunny days in the summer or the Dunas de Artola trail in the winter. There’s no bad time to visit this beach. The sunsets are gorgeous there too.
Prices
Which town is more expensive, Fuengirola or Marbella? I don’t think there’s a significant price discrepancy between both towns. You’ll find the same, or very similar, prices for food, transportation and attractions.
However, accommodation prices are a different matter. As I mentioned in the accommodation section of this article, Marbella tends to have more expensive hotels than Fuengirola.
Item
Accommodation
Meal for two people
Bus ticket (one way)
lowest from €30 per night
€40-50 in a mid-range restaurant
€1,18
Transport
Fuengirola has better connections with other nearby coastal towns and Malaga. The main reason is that the C-1 Renfe Cercanias train runs through Fuengirola, being the last stop, while Marbella doesn’t.
In addition to the the train, you also have Fuengirola bus station that takes to Marbella, Mijas Pueblo, Malaga, etc.
Marbella is well-connected by bus, but that’s about it.
So, if you want to travel around using public transport, Fuengirola is better for you.
If you’re going to rent a car, which I totally think it’s worth doing if you want to travel to villages and other destinations like Gibraltar, it doesn’t really matter which town you pick.
The only thing I’d say is to be extra cautious during the peak season (June to September). The traffic in the roads connecting Fuengirola and Marbella are very busy.
Thinking of renting a car? Check out Discover Cars to find great car rental deals.
Day trips
Marbella and Fuengirola are only 30 minutes away, so the best day trips from Fuengirola are almost the same for Marbella.
Regardless of where you stay, if you haven’t been to Malaga yet, make sure to add a day trip. The city has plenty of sights and museums worth seeing. La Alcazaba de Malaga is a must-see.
If you’re looking for very easy day trips, which you can do by taking public transport from each destination, I’d recommend Ojen to anyone staying in Marbella and Mijas Pueblo for travellers in Fuengirola.
Nightlife
I must admit I’m not a partygoer and I rather explore during the day than being out at night, but having heard from friends and family members who like a party, you find different types of nightlife atmosphere in Fuengirola and Marbella.
Marbella nightlife is sometimes overrated and overpriced, so it isn’t the best place for those who love a good night out without breaking the bank. This especially applies to going out in Puerto Banus.
Whereas Fuengirola is more accessible to everyone, so you can find more diversity in pubs and nightclubs.
One thing you might want to experience at least once is the beach clubs in Marbella. They can’t be compared to the ones in Ibiza (those are top-notch!), but I dare say that the beach clubs in Marbella aren’t far away from these.
Nikki Beach, La Cabanne and Ocean Club are favourites.
Conclusion on this Fuengirola vs Marbella comparison
I hope this comparison has helped you pick the best destination for you.
If you’re still unsure on where to stay on the Costa del Sol, check out my other comparison articles: Marbella vs Nerja, Torremolinos vs Benalmadena and Marbella vs Estepona.
Alternatively, why not book a one-on-one call with me to discuss your travel preferences and let me help you create a personalised itinerary?
Enjoy your trip to Costa del Sol!
Cristina
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