Hotels in Marbella

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Marbella, nestled on Spain's Costa del Sol, presents a distinctive blend of old-world Andalusian charm and contemporary leisure. Known for its pleasant climate and extensive coastline, the town offers more than just sun-soaked beaches; it features an Old Town, or Casco Antiguo, with narrow cobbled streets and historic buildings, alongside the bustling marina area of Puerto Banús, recognised for its luxury yachts, designer boutiques, and sophisticated dining establishments.

The area is also a draw for those interested in golf, with numerous courses set against the backdrop of the Sierra Blanca mountains. Visitors often explore the Plaza de los Naranjos in the Old Town, a central square surrounded by orange trees and historic architecture, or stroll along the Golden Mile, a stretch connecting Marbella to Puerto Banús, lined with some of the region's notable properties and facilities.

For many visitors to Marbella, the Golden Mile between the town centre and Puerto Banús is a frequent choice for accommodation, offering a range of hotels and private residences with beach access.

Marbella itself offers diverse areas. The Old Town, or Casco Antiguo, provides boutique hotels and guesthouses nestled within its narrow, whitewashed streets. Here, visitors can explore the Plaza de los Naranjos and the remains of the old castle walls, with numerous traditional eateries. Towards the east, areas like Elviria and Cabopino feature larger resort hotels, holiday apartments, and golf course-adjacent properties, known for their wider beaches and quieter atmosphere. Cabopino boasts a small, picturesque marina and popular chiringuitos.

West of the centre lies Puerto Banús, a hub for luxury stays. Accommodation ranges from upscale hotels to serviced apartments, often with views of the marina, which is famous for its yachts and designer boutiques. The area is also known for its nightlife and high-end restaurants. Further inland, away from the coast, residential areas like Nueva Andalucía offer villas and apartment complexes, often catering to those seeking golf courses and a more suburban feel, yet still close to the amenities of Banús.

When considering hotel bookings, Marbella is well-connected. Málaga Airport (AGP) is the closest major international gateway, approximately 45 minutes to an hour's drive. Gibraltar Airport (GIB) is also an option, though further, involving a border crossing. Public transport includes bus services from both airports, with coach connections directly to Marbella bus station. Taxis and private transfers are readily available for direct routes to specific hotel locations throughout the city.

To save a bit of money on your Marbella hotel, consider booking outside the busiest periods. Prices tend to be significantly higher from June to August, as this is the peak summer season and when many European holidaymakers flock to the Costa del Sol. Additionally, be mindful of the Marbella Fair in October, as accommodation can also fill up and become more expensive around this time.

For more affordable rates, look to travel during the shoulder seasons or the quieter months. You'll often find better deals from November to February, excluding the Christmas and New Year period, when the weather is still mild but the crowds have thinned out considerably. Booking well in advance, regardless of the season, can also help secure more favourable prices.