11 Best Things to Do in Marbella in Winter by a Local

Although you may want to skip swimming in the sea, there are amazing things to do in Marbella in winter, such as going on a scenic hiking trail, visiting a nearby winery, or simply enjoying its tranquil atmosphere.

Marbella is known for being a fantastic summer getaway – its stunning golden sand beaches, international events and nightlife, and lively atmosphere make it a top choice destination in Spain. But winter is great too.

Not only can you do activities you would avoid in summer because of the heat, but you’ll also experience a different Marbella – a calmer and more authentic side.

In addition to this, if you wish to escape the cold and rainy winter, Marbella is an excellent option. Temperatures range from 16 degrees to 18 degrees during the day, and although you can have a few rainy days, they aren’t as common as in other European towns.

Marbella in winter is just as beautiful as in summer, but being from Costa del Sol, I can tell you that you’ll enjoy its quieter atmosphere in winter.

In this guide, you’re going to discover some of the best things to do in Marbella in winter, the events you don’t want to miss out on, and local tips to make the most of your holidays in Marbella.

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3 Top Reasons to visit Marbella in winter

So, first, “Why Marbella in winter?” Here are my top reasons to visit Marbella during this season of the year.

The sunny weather

Marbella weather is good all year round, and the town and the rest of Costa del Sol enjoy 320 days of sun on average, so there isn’t any better place to be in Europe in winter.

Winter temperatures reach up to 18 degrees Celsius (64º F) during the day, which is the perfect weather to explore Marbella’s old town, enjoy a meal outdoors or stroll on the beach promenade. During the evening, expect a minimum of 8 degrees Celsius (46º F).

The coldest month in Marbella is January, with a maximum of 16 degrees (60º F) and a minimum of 6 degrees (42º F).

You can also experience some grey or rainy days despite the sunny weather. On average, it rains a maximum of 5 days in December.

There are fewer crowds

If you prefer to visit places at a slower pace and with fewer tourists, travelling to Marbella during the off-season is ideal for you.

Winter in Marbella is peaceful, so you don’t need to worry about queueing to sit at a restaurant table most times, being stuck in traffic, or getting up earlier than the crowds to visit attractions or towns near Marbella.

This doesn’t mean there are no tourists! You’ll be surprised by how many people choose Marbella as their winter sun getaway. On top of this, many expats and digital nomads make Marbella their home base.

Overall, you’ll experience a quieter Marbella apart from the Christmas period that lasts until the 6th of January.

It’s more budget-friendly

You’ve probably heard that Marbella is expensive, and certainly, Marbella isn’t the cheapest place to visit in Costa del Sol.

However, if you’d like to visit Marbella while on a budget, you want to avoid the summer months at all costs. Not only is it expensive, but busy too and you’ll struggle to find accommodation at a good price.

Visiting Marbella in winter offers you a better price range in accommodation and affordable flights too.

If you’re travelling from Europe, there are plenty of cheap flights to Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport from November to February, excluding the festive period.

You can find return flight tickets for less than 50 pounds, and the best way to check the cheapest dates is with Skyscanner.

The best things to do in Marbella in winter

A common question is what to do in Marbella during this time of the year. Here are ten activities to do in this charming town.

1. Stroll the beach promenade

There’s nothing better than waking up early and strolling Marbella’s promenade and enjoying a walk while there are barely any people around, listening to the noise of the waves and contemplating the beautiful coast with the warm colours of the sunrise.

If you aren’t an early bird, walking in Marbella’s promenade is always a good idea, although doing this at sunrise or sunset is even more magical.

On Sundays, expect to see more people on the beachfront because it’s the day when many locals don’t work (except hospitality workers). You’ll see many friends or families walking on the promenade and stopping by a beach bar to have lunch.

I absolutely love walking in Marbella’s promenade off-season. It’s incredibly relaxing.

2. Enjoy a meal on an outdoor terrace

Outdoor eating happens not only in summer but also in winter. The beautiful weather in Marbella and across Costa del Sol allows restaurants and bars to keep their outdoor seating all year.

Although it isn’t as warm as in other seasons, you’ll only need a jacket or coat, depending on how cold you normally get, and you’ll be fine sitting outside. However, there are days that you may not even need these!

Plaza de Los Naranjos, known as Orange Square by tourists, is a very picturesque and relaxing place to enjoy a meal.

However, if you’d like to eat traditional dishes such as pescaito frito (fried fish), head to La Lonja, one of the best places to eat fish in Marbella, if you prefer a wider variety of tapas, I love Casa Blanca, especially their Serranito sandwich and garlic prawns.

3. Explore the Old Town

Exploring the Old Town of Marbella is an activity that you can do all year round, but if you’re wondering why winter is a perfect time, there are two main reasons.

Firstly, it isn’t as crowded as it is during the summer months. And, secondly, the temperature is often pleasant – sunny, blue sky, not too hot, not too cold.

As you get lost in the beautiful whitewashed streets, take photos of the picturesque buildings and flower pots hanging on the walls, go inside Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación church, spot the remains of Marbella Castle, and stop by the local independent shops that sell unique souvenirs and clothes.

If you’re into learning about the history of the town and knowing a bit more about the local culture, then you want to consider booking a tour with a local guide to tell you all the secrets about Marbella.

Despite the small of the old town, you can spend hours in this charming part of Marbella. The Old Town of Marbella is the most beautiful one in Costa del Sol. My favourite street is Carmen Street (which you can see above).

📌 If you’d love to learn about Marbella’s old town history while tasting delicious tapas and wine, check out this 3 hour tour.

4. Play golf

Marbella is a paradise for those who love golf. You’ll find many golf courses for all ages and levels across Marbella and Costa del Sol. In case you’re looking for a good golf course, these are the best golf courses:

• La Quinta Golf & Country Club
• Los Naranjos Golf Club
• Marbella Club Golf Resort
• Cabopino Golf Marbella

5. Visit Puerto Banus

No matter if you visit Marbella in summer or winter, a place that needs to be on your list is Puerto Banús. It’s one of the most expensive ports in Spain, so expect to see the most luxurious yachts and shops.

Walking in Puerto Banus is lovely in winter because there are fewer people around. Leisurely walk around the port, take some photos, and maybe go on a boat trip, providing the weather is nice.

As a local, I would avoid eating in this area because the food is overpriced and not authentic if you want to try the local cuisine.

6. Shop at La Cañada

If you love shopping, you’re spoilt for choice in La Cañada Shopping Centre, one of the biggest shopping centres in Costa del Sol that is just outside Marbella.

La Cañada is a paradise for anyone who loves shopping. It has over 200 shops where you can buy anything from high street brand clothes like H&M and Zara and jewellery to home decorations and children’s toys.

In addition to the wide selection of shops, you can also grab some food or go to the cinema.

7. Go on a scenic hiking trail

Hiking is the best thing to do in Marbella in winter. Its proximity to the mountains makes Marbella an ideal place for nature lovers.

Marbella is home to many scenic hiking trails that range from easy to difficult, so you’ll find the best walking route for you.

One of the most popular but challenging hiking trails in Marbella is La Concha which offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coast, Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park, Gibraltar and Africa on clear days. It takes about 6 to 7 hours to complete.

Another incredible hike, which isn’t next to Marbella but is worth doing, is Caminito del Rey located very close to Ardales.

This used to be one of Europe’s most dangerous hiking trails, but fortunately, the path has been restored and adapted for tourists.

In order to access Caminito del Rey, you’ll have to pay an entrance fee. Make sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid any disappointments. It has become a very popular spot!

📌 Are you planning a visit to Caminito del Rey? Book your tickets in advance here.

8. Go on a day trip to a whitewashed town

Marbella has fantastic winter activities; however, if you spend more than a weekend in the town, you want to check out other nearby beautiful whitewashed towns.

Here is a list of the best day trips from Marbella in winter:

• Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas
• Mijas Pueblo
• Benalmadena
• Malaga
• Frigiliana and Nerja

The best way to travel in Marbella and Costa del Sol is by car. Renting a car gives you the freedom to visit towns which are difficult to travel to by public transport.

On top of this, driving to these destinations also has the advantage of getting there earlier than others, which is ideal if you wish to watch the sunrise or take photos without crowds.

However, if you don’t drive or don’t wish to drive abroad, I highly recommend checking guided tours with Get Your Guide. They’re very convenient, and you don’t need to stress about catching different buses to get to a place.

9. Visit a nearby winery

The province of Malaga is known for its sweet wines, and Ronda is where you’ll find the best wineries.

Marbella is only about 1 hour drive from Ronda, the best town in Malaga to visit if you love a good glass of wine.

There are plenty of wineries in Ronda (Bodegas Excelencia, Bodegas Vetas and Bodegas Chinchilla, among others) which have a wide range of wines, from the traditional Malaga sweet wine to classics like rosé and red wine.

10. See the Christmas lights

Marbella is beautifully decorated during the Christmas season, so it’s worth checking out the lights in the old town as well as going to the Christmas market next to El Corte Inglés shopping centre.

However, if you love Christmas, you must go on a day trip to Malaga to see its Christmas light show, in which the lights dance to the rhythm of English and traditional Spanish Christmas songs. The atmosphere is incredible.

In addition to that, I recommend visiting Paseo del Parque Christmas stalls and Muelle Uno (Malaga’s port), one of my favourite places in my hometown. Muelle Uno has a lovely Christmas market, and children can visit Santa’s Grotto too. Malaga at Christmas is magical!

11. Go on a day trip to Gibraltar

Only 1 hour from Marbella, Gibraltar is an excellent day trip from Marbella. Nature, wildlife and culture are a few of the reasons to visit Gibraltar.

On a day trip to Gibraltar, you can visit the Rock of Gibraltar and Upper Nature Reserve, where you can enjoy incredible views of Africa, visit Gibraltar tunnels and caves, and see the famous monkeys, as well as do some shopping and explore the colourful streets of Gibraltar.

Things to do in Marbella in winter by month

If you’re wondering if there are any special events that take place during the winter months in Marbella, here are the highlights of each month.

Things to do in Marbella in December

This is the time to experience Christmas like a Spaniard. There are different Christmas markets in Marbella that take place across the month of December.

One of the most popular Christmas markets is Mercado Navideño El Corte Inglés which has cute Alp-style stalls with unique gifts, food trucks that serve waffles, crepes and burgers, children’s attractions and live music.

During your stay in Marbella, I highly recommend going on a day trip to Malaga to see some of the best Christmas light displays in Spain! The Christmas lights dance to the rhythm of Christmas songs three times in the evening. It’s a different light show every year, so you don’t want to miss it.

Estepona, another town near Marbella, has a beautiful Christmas market and other lovely events in December too.

Things to do in Marbella in January

One of the main events in Marbella in January is Cabalgata de Los Reyes Magos on the 5th of January.

This consists of a street parade in which the “three kings” and their helpers throw sweets, and sometimes toys, from their floats to children. It’s a special event to attend with the little ones!

The parade is way smaller than the one in Malaga, but the Marbella parade is your best option if you prefer to experience it without many people. Apart from this Christmas event, there aren’t many other events that take place in January.

Also, be aware that many restaurants and bars close after Christmas and reopen in February or March when it starts getting livelier.

Things to do in Marbella in February

February is the month of the carnival in many countries like Italy, Brazil and Colombia. The south of Spain celebrates carnival at its best, and Marbella celebrates it too.

Although the best place to celebrate the carnival in Andalucia is Cadiz, it’s an experience seeing how locals in Marbella dress up, sing in the streets, and participate in fancy dress competitions.

In addition to the carnival, another important event is Andalucia’s Day on the 28th of February. On this day, there is live music, free paella tasting and other food stalls in Avenida Las Albarizas.

Things to do in Marbella in March

St Patrick’s Day wasn’t a thing in Marbella or Malaga a few years ago; however, it has become another celebrated event since the increase of Irish expats across the Costa del Sol.

The event often takes place on the 16th and 17th of March in the Glorieta de la Fontanilla. Here you can enjoy traditional Irish food, listen to Irish songs, dance and much more. There are also activities for children, such as face painting and inflatable castles.

By the end of March and beginning of April, Semana Santa (Holy Week) is a very traditional and important time in Marbella and the rest of Spain. See the impressive religious floats day and night and taste traditional Easter desserts like torrijas (Spanish French Toast).

If you like attending traditional events, March is a good month to visit Marbella!

Frequently asked questions about visiting Marbella in winter

Conclusion on the best things to do in Marbella in winter

So, is Marbella worth visiting? This will depend on the type of holiday you’re looking for. Marbella is perfect for you if you want to sightsee, go on hiking trails or have a more authentic experience in the town. It’s also a great place to start a road trip in the south of Spain.

Marbella isn’t for you if you’re looking for a beach break. Although I’ve seen a few tourists diving in the sea, the water is cold (it’s about 17 degrees). You won’t see any locals swimming in the sea during this time of the year.

It isn’t for you either, if you want Marbella nightlife at its best. You’ll only find the best events and parties from late spring until the middle of September. Many beach clubs are only open during the summer season.

If you have any questions about visiting Marbella or anywhere else in Costa del Sol, you can drop them in the comments.

Safe adventures!

Cristina x

Don’t forget to save these reasons to visit Marbella in winter for later

Top things to do before visiting Marbella

• Check out cheap flights to Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) here.
• Book accommodation in Marbella. This hotel guide will tell you the town’s best hotels.
• Have a look at this Malaga food guide to indulge yourself in eating the most traditional food in Malaga and Costa del Sol.
• Rent a car to travel with ease around Marbella and Costa del Sol.
• Book travel insurance; this is a must for any trip! SafetyWing offers flexible travel and health insurance.

Other Marbella travel guides

• How To Get From Malaga to Marbella Guide
• The Best Time to Visit Marbella
• Best Things to Do In Marbella, Spain – A Local’s Guide
• Best Places to Eat in Marbella
• Best Hotels in Marbella For a Memorable Holiday
• Fantastic Day Trips From Marbella
• Malaga Vs Marbella: Which Place Is Best To Visit?
• Marbella vs Mallorca: A Travel Comparison

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