9 Insider Tips for Travelling to Marbella (Do’s and Dont’s)
There’s plenty of advice on what to see and do in Marbella, but if you’re looking for specific tips on what you should and shouldn’t do, I’ve compiled them in this guide.
As a Costa del Sol local, I’m passionate about helping you and others travel to my region by sharing my insights, which will ultimately make your trip better.
I’m covering everything from when to come to Marbella to how to avoid tourist traps and get around the city.
This post contains affiliate links, and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you click through and purchase something, I receive a small commission on the price at no extra cost to you. This helps me keep the content up to date and make other improvements to the blog.
Things you should know before visiting Marbella
When to visit Marbella
I want to start by saying there isn’t a bad time to visit Marbella. We have plenty of sunshine and activities for you to enjoy.
However, there’s a better time to visit depending on the type of holiday and traveller you are.
If you’re seeking warm days at the beach or pool, a lively party atmosphere and events, summer in Marbella tick all the boxes.
This is the best time to swim in the sea, do water activities, spend the day at a beach club and dance the night away.
July and August are the busiest months, whereas June and September are a bit quieter, but you can still make the most of the summer.
Having said so, if you aren’t a beach bum and don’t like extreme heat or crowds, pick spring or autumn.
I prefer spring over autumn as I love the many events taking place in Marbella and its surroundings and the flower blossoms.
When not to visit Marbella
Wait, didn’t you say there wasn’t a bad time to visit Marbella?
Well, if you don’t like quiet, I’d avoid January and February—many businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and shops, close during this period.
It doesn’t mean everything is closed, but your options are reduced.
It’s a good time for anyone who wants to escape the cold weather and wants a chilled holiday or do outdoor activities like hiking.
Also, if you’re a budget traveller, this is when the airlines and hotels offer cheaper rates.
If you want more information on the best times to visit Marbella, I wrote this detailed guide that includes what to do in Marbella by season.
Accessibility
If you’re wondering how accessible the city is, it’s pretty accessible.
Popular spots like Marbella Old Town and Puerto Banus are wheelchair friendly. The same happens with the beach promenade.
Regarding beaches, many have been adapted for wheelchair users and travellers with any other disability that limits their mobility.
Some accessible beaches are San Pedro de Alcantara and Fontanilla.
Last but not least, hotels usually offer accessibility features, such as shower seats and grab bars, pool lifts and accessible parking.
Hotel Don Pepe Gran Meliá is one of the hotels with facilities for disabled guests.
Top tips for visiting Marbella
Avoid tourist traps
It’s very easy to end up in a tourist trap when you don’t know a place. I’ve been there, and it’s pretty annoying. So this is why I like telling other travellers what to avoid in my hometown.
When it comes to Marbella, there are tourist traps, as in any part of the world.
I advise you to skip eating in Plaza de Los Naranjos (Orange Square). Some restaurants offer dishes that are not so authentic and at higher prices.
I know how lovely it is to sit there and take in the views of the buildings, smell the orange scent during the orange season, and people watch, but you can find much better bars and restaurants not far from this square.
For example, Taberna La Niña del Pisto or Casa Blanca. These two places are my favourites.
Not only does this happen in Marbella Centre but in Puerto Banus too.
Many locals, including myself, don’t like eating there because of the extortionate prices.
Don’t overpack
This is more of a general tip that many of us could apply to any trip, but I mention it here because it’s too easy to do it without thinking.
Plus, you can find almost anything in Marbella!
Whether you’ve forgotten sun cream or mosquito repellent, you’ll find them here.
I wouldn’t buy them from the convenience or souvenir store or shop at your resort as they’ll charge you double.
Find a Dia or Mercadona supermarket to get them for less!
Rent a car
You don’t need a car to get to Marbella from Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport as you can travel by bus or private transfer.
However, if you’re a bit of an explorer and want to make the most of your time in Marbella and its surroundings, having a car makes a big difference.
Public transport is affordable, but you can’t get to some places by bus, and sometimes it is busy or doesn’t turn up, especially in more remote areas.
The car gives you freedom and is way more comfortable.
The roads and motorways are generally well-maintained. The only problem you might find is the traffic at peak hours.
Also, Marbella roads get very busy in the summer months, so that’s something to keep in mind.
Keep an eye on your belongings
I’ve never had any issues with safety in Marbella, but it’s always good practice to keep an eye on your bag or phone in crowded areas like Puerto Banus.
During the peak season, you’ll see more police patrolling the busiest streets so it reduces the chances of pickpocketing.
Pick your accommodation wisely
The wide range of hotels and holiday homes in Marbella makes picking accommodation difficult.
If I were you, I would choose my hotel based on three things: location, price and reviews. The first two are the most important.
Location and price are subjective to your travel preferences. Do you want a memorable stay? Pick a hotel in the Golden Mile. Hotels like Puente Romano, Nobu (adults-only) and Marbella Club never disappoint.
Do you want an affordable but nice stay? My preferred hotels are Linda Boutique Hotel and Óbal Urban Hotel.
Another important aspect you might want to take into consideration is how sustainable your hotel is. You can usually find this information on their website.
As mentioned above, coming to Marbella during the off-season will save you money regardless of the accommodation you pick.
Book a tour
I don’t always recommend booking a tour as I don’t think they are for everyone.
Nevertheless, when history and culture are important to you, it’s worth booking one as you’ll get insider information.
I’ve personally taken one of the free Guruwalk tours and really enjoyed it.
The guide was knowledgeable and told all the information in an entertaining way.
Although these tours are free, you have the option to tip the guide. I always do because it shows appreciation for their time and effort.
Support local businesses
Do you love shopping? Well, Marbella is also a great destination for shopaholics.
Here, you’ll find well-known high-end street brands and the most glamorous clothing and accessories. Fashion is big in Marbella.
While it’s nice to treat yourself in one of the luxury shops like Gucci or Dolce & Gabbana, I’d instead shop from locals.
There are many lovely small boutiques in the old town offering unique clothes and local products.
If you’re into shopping, read my detailed guide on where to shop in Marbella.
Pack your sun cream
Sun cream is an essential for your Marbella trip.
Many travellers think that they’ll only need it in summer, but the sun rays are pretty strong here all year round.
We have over 320 days of sunshine, so the chances you see the sun are very high. We barely have cloudy or rainy days.
Even if you don’t plan to sunbathe, you’ll catch some sun from walking. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
The last thing you want is to experience redness after sun exposure.
Don’t go to Las Albarizas
Although things happen in Marbella, I find most areas very safe, especially the centre.
However, I’d avoid walking in Las Albarizas neighbourhood. It isn’t nice, and there have been some issues due to poverty.
Conclusion
I hope these tips help you have a better experience in Marbella.
And if you have any questions, drop them in the comments or join my Facebook group, which is the best place to get answers.
Cristina x
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