10 Romantic Things to Do in Marbella for Couples
Is Marbella a good romantic getaway? Yes, it is.
There are many things to do in Marbella for couples, from having a romantic meal and strolling the narrow streets of Marbella’s old town to watching the sunset.
It doesn’t need to be a special occasion like an anniversary or Valentine’s Day to enjoy the romantic side of Marbella.
Being a local from Costa del Sol, I spend a lot of time in Marbella, and I’m going to share the best things you can do with your other half.
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Things to do in Marbella for couples
1. Stroll around the picturesque old town
One of the best places to see in Marbella is the old town. It’s full of charm. You can get lost wandering its narrow cobblestone streets, which lead you to Plaza de Los Naranjos.
Orange Square is the epicentre of the historic town. Here, you find the town hall, restaurants and cafes surrounded by scented orange trees, especially in winter.
The moment you step in, you’ll understand why it’s such a magical place.
It’s my favourite place to enjoy a drink with my partner while people watch leisurely.
It’s very picturesque, so another activity you can do is to book a romantic photo shoot. Who wants to be trailing with camera equipment and a tripod? It’s more fun when you leave a professional to guide you.
Marbella historic centre is also a good place to buy traditional things like Andalusian pottery or even clothes and jewellery.
It’s mostly home to small independent businesses, so you’re also supporting the locals by buying from them. Personally, I don’t see shopping as a romantic activity, but you can buy something unique for your other half.
2. Spend the day at the beach
If you love a beach day, you’re spoilt for choice in Marbella.
Regardless of where you are, there will be a nearby beach to spend a few hours or a full day.
If you stay in the centre of Marbella, you have beaches within walking distance. Playa del Faro and Playa de La Venus are convenient and have good facilities, but they aren’t the most idyllic beaches in Marbella.
I prefer beaches like Playa Puerto Banus and Playa del Real Zaragoza because they have golden sand and are bigger, so I don’t feel cramped in the busiest days.
One of my favourite beach restaurants in Real Zaragoza Beach is Restaurante Aqui Te Quiero Ver “Lunamar”. Their outdoor terrace overlooks the beautiful Mediterranean Sea, and the food is very good. I always order their fried anchovies.
Many of these beaches also offer fun activities like pedal boats, paddling and more.
3. Go on a sunset cruise
What’s more romantic than watching the sunset with your other half?
Yes, you can simply enjoy it at the beach or from a rooftop terrace, but if you’re looking for something extra special, a cruise is a fantastic choice.
You have two options: book a sunset cruise with a group, which works out the cheapest, or a private cruise.
If you can afford it, go private, but if you can’t, you can still have a magical time on a normal cruise.
Take in the views of the warm colours of the sunset, the sea views and the whitewashed buildings of Marbella and its mountains.
⛵ Book this highly-rated sunset boat cruise here
4. Sip a cocktail on a rooftop terrace
Summer evenings in Marbella are special, and one of the best places to enjoy the sun going down is in a rooftop bar.
There’s no shortage of rooftop terraces in Marbella. In fact, you have so many good options that it is difficult to pick one.
If you want a view of the mountains and the old town, I like the one in Linda Boutique Hotel. A couple of times I visited it, it wasn’t busy, but I think the reason behind it was early afternoon.
The Belvue Rooftop Bar, located in Amare Beach Hotel, is my choice for the best sea views. They have live music, great cocktails and comfy sofas where you can relax with your partner.
5. Have a spa day
Did you know Marbella has some of the best spas in Spain? That’s right.
If you’re looking for a wellness holiday with your partner, you won’t be disappointed choosing Marbella.
Some of the best spas in Marbella include:
- Thalasso Spa in Marbella Club Hotel
- Spa Six Senses in Puente Romano and Nobu Hotel
- Spa Anantara in Anantara Villa Padierna
- Heavenly Spa in Westin La Quinta Resort & Spa
6. Explore Puerto Banus
Puerto Banus is one of the most sophisticated areas in Marbella. If you visit it during peak season, it will always be busy. However, I love wandering Puerto Banus off-season because you can walk at your own pace without crowds.
I don’t personally recommend eating in this area because it’s overpriced unless you go to Casa Blanca, which offers affordable tapas and other Spanish dishes.
Experience the sophisticated atmosphere, window shop in some of the most exclusive high-end shops, and see impressive yachts and cars.
7. Dine at a Michelin-star restaurant
Although you don’t need to spend lots of money to eat well in Marbella, you might want to have a unique dining experience with your other half.
Luckily, Marbella has many highly-rated Michelin-star restaurants worth trying. Whether you fancy Spanish, international or fusion cuisine, there’s one for you.
Lobito de Mar is one of the most popular Michelin-star restaurants in Marbella. Founded by local chef Dani Garcia, this restaurant offers the freshest seafood and fish and tastiest rice dishes. Although my partner and I haven’t tried it yet, it’s on our list. I’ve always heard good things about this one.
However, we’ve tried Tragabuches, another spectacular restaurant by Dani Garcia. We really enjoyed the tomato salad, ham croquetas and cheesecake.
SKINA is another restaurant you might want to try. This cosy restaurant in Av. Cánovas del Castillo serves Andalusian dishes with a twist.
8. Go to a beach club
I think there’s a misconception about beach clubs. Many people think they are for youngsters and are a bit wild. However, most beach clubs in Marbella offer more of a sophisticated atmosphere.
Nikki Beach and Ocean Club are favourites, but in my opinion, La Cabanne is better for couples. The atmosphere is more laid-back while you get amazing food and listen to live music.
Going to a beach club in Marbella can be expensive, especially for those with a pool, Balinese-style beds and other extras. However, if you want a more budget-friendly option, try somewhere like John Scott’s Beach.
9. Watch a flamenco show
If you and your partner want to immerse yourselves in the Andalusian culture, watching a live flamenco show is a great way to do so.
A few places in Marbella host flamenco shows, so there’s no reason to miss one during your holiday.
The Farm Marbella, situated in the old town, is one of the places to watch flamenco. Book a table, and you’ll be able to enjoy the show for free. They host two types of shows: fusion on Tuesdays and Sundays and traditional on Thursdays.
Their tasting menu includes anything from beef carpaccio to grilled seabass and arepas.
Taberna El Bordón is another place to enjoy flamenco music. This Spanish restaurant has live shows on weekends from 9 pm.
10. Take a trip to Ronda
Marbella has many romantic activities for couples, but if you fancy doing something a bit different, go on a day trip with your partner to another charming town.
I recommend Ronda because its historic centre is gorgeous. You can do different activities in Ronda like visiting museums, eating tapas at a traditional bar, and drinking some wine while taking in the views of Ronda Bridge.
Hotel Don Miguel is my go-to restaurant for the bridge views, whilst the Hotel Catalonia Ronda offers the best views of Ronda’s bullring. However, I found the prices a bit high compared to other places to eat.
Another popular thing for couples to do in Ronda is to take a wine tour. Serrania de Ronda has excellent vineyards where you can taste some of Malaga’s most typical wines, including its sweet wine.
🍷 Check out this day trip to Ronda from Marbella with wine tasting here
Best places to stay in Marbella for couples
Nobu
⭐ 5-star hotel | Review: 8.9/10 | View on Booking.com
Nobu Hotel Marbella is perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway. It’s nestled in a tranquil area of Marbella, only five minutes from the beach.
The accommodation options at Nobu are designed to cater to couples’ needs, offering a range of rooms – deluxe, junior, or studio – each promising a memorable stay.
They all have a minimalist yet elegant decor. Each one is equipped with ensuite bathrooms and in-room amenities like a TV, minibar, free WiFi, a safety deposit box, and a coffee machine to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free stay.
Some rooms also include a private terrace to unwind and watch the magical sunsets in Marbella.
Beyond the rooms, Nobu offers an array of amenities catering to couples, from a pool area and evening entertainment to yoga lessons.
However, my favourite thing about Nobu is the wide range of restaurants. Their Japanese restaurant is one-of-a-kind, but you can also have other cuisines like Spanish, Peruvian and Thai.
In summary, this small luxury hotel specialises in providing an exclusive, adult-only experience, making it an ideal retreat for couples.
🛏️ Check out availability and prices here
Marbella Club Hotel
⭐ 5-star hotel | Review: 9.3/10 | View on Booking.com
Marbella Club Hotel is the most emblematic hotel in Marbella, and it’s famous for hosting celebrities.
This top-notch beachfront hotel located between Marbella and Puerto Banús offers a magical romantic stay.
The rooms are well-equipped with spacious and comfortable beds with silky and luxurious pillows, a flat-screen TV, a private marble bathroom with Babor toiletries, a coffee machine and a terrace with a sea or garden view.
One of the best facilities at Marbella Club Hotel for couples is the Thalasso Spa, the perfect place to disconnect from the world and pamper yourselves with exclusive treatments.
Regarding restaurants, it has not only one but five restaurants serving Spanish and international dishes.
The pool area is lovely, and I highly recommend visiting their pier at sunset. It’s my go-to place for watching the sun going down.
🛏️ Check out availability and prices here
Amare Beach Hotel Marbella
⭐ 4-star hotel | Review: 9/10 | View on Booking.com
Amàre Beach Hotel Marbella is one of the best adult-only hotels in Costa del Sol. The location couldn’t be better; it’s on the beachfront and a short walk from the charming old town of Marbella.
The rooms at Amàre are thoughtfully designed with couples in mind, offering everything you and your partner need, from comfortable beds and air conditioning to an ensuite bathroom featuring a rainfall shower and complimentary Molton Brown toiletries, adding a touch of luxury.
Other amenities included in each room are a safe, minibar, Nespresso coffee machine, and a welcome gift (Who doesn’t like that?)
For an upscale experience, you can try their Amàre’s exclusive VIP services, which include access to their private lounge and the hotel’s finest rooms.
One of my favourite facilities of the hotel is the Beach Club, which has incredible live music and atmosphere.
Regarding food, the hotel is surrounded by many great places to eat, like Paladar Paderna, which I highly recommend trying. However, it has an onsite restaurant called Messina, offering dishes that combine local products with modern culinary techniques.
🛏️ Check out availability and prices here
Frequently asked questions about romantic things to do in Marbella
Is Marbella good for couples?
Yes, Marbella is a great destination for couples. It has everything from top-notch restaurants to romantic stays and activities.
What are the best beaches in Marbella for couples?
The best beaches in Marbella for couples are Playa de Puerto Banus, Playa Cabopino and Playa del Real Zaragoza.
What are the best day trips from Marbella for couples?
The best day trips from Marbella for couples are Ronda, Mijas and Granada.
Conclusion on the best things to do in Marbella for couples
Marbella is definitely a romantic destination, and you won’t be surprised to see many people tying the knot or spending their honeymoon here.
Do you have any questions? Drop them in the comments or join my Facebook group. The latter is the best place to ask questions and connect with me and other travellers.
Enjoy your holiday in Marbella!
Cristina x
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Top things to check before visiting Marbella
- Check out cheap flights to Malaga Costa del Sol Airport here.
- Have a look at this Malaga food guide to indulge yourself in eating the best typical food in the area.
- Are you looking for the best accommodation in Marbella? Check out this hotel guide.
- Rent a car to travel with ease around Marbella and Costa del Sol.
- Book travel insurance for your trip. It’s a must for any holiday.
