So, you’ve chosen to make Marbella your base for your Costa del Sol holiday. A great choice because the resort offers plenty to do and see, but if you’re looking for a little bit more you’ll want to explore further afield. Read on for our suggestions for five great day trips from Marbella.
The big city
Top of your list for the best day trips from Marbella should be a visit to the city of Malaga. Easy to get to from Marbella, the capital of the Costa del Sol is home to a long list of attractions, great restaurants and tapas bars, and excellent shopping.
On your day trip in Malaga don’t miss:
• The Picasso Museum and the Museum of Malaga, both showcasing stunning art and archaeology.
• A stroll under the pergola along the Palmeral de las Sorpresas.
• A visit to Atarazanas Market, a feast for literally all the senses.
• A cocktail on one of the roof terraces while you watch the sun go down.
Classic Andalusia
If you’re looking for a taste of quintessential Andalusia, a must on your list of day trips from Marbella has to be Ronda. This beautiful whitewashed town, just one hour’s drive from Marbella, combines everything Andalusian in a stunning mountain setting.
On your day trip to Ronda don’t miss:
• The views of the river gorge and valley from the historic bridge.
• The views from the town from the recently-opened rooftop walk at the Santa Maria La Mayor church.
• The Arab baths, perfectly preserved with their characteristic star-shaped windows and horseshoe arches.
• A glass of delicious local Ronda wine together with some just as delicious tapas at one of the taverns in the centre of town.
Glorious beaches
While Marbella does have some very good beaches, slightly further west along to the coast they’re even better. Those on the Atlantic, about 90 minutes away from Marbella, rank among the best in Spain. Start your quest for golden sands at Los Lances beach in Tarifa or visit the long beaches at Valdevaqueros or Bolonia.
On your day trip to Tarifa don’t miss:
• The Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia at Bolonia, some of the best in southern Spain.
• A walk up the giant sand dune at Bolonia or Valdevaqueros.
• A stroll round the old town at Tarifa – don’t forget to visit the castle to admire the views of Africa across the Strait of Gibraltar.
• Lunch or dinner of fresh fish at one of the beach restaurants along the coast.
Picture-perfect village
If you like the old town in Marbella, you’ll love the white villages nearby. All are perfectly preserved and practically untouched by tourism. One of the prettiest is Casares, to the west, and an easy day trip from Marbella. This pristine white village sits high on a mountain and has commanding views of the coast.
On your day trip to Casares don’t miss
• The view of the village as you approach by road.
• The climb up to the castle – steep but worth it – with stunning views of the coast and African on the horizon.
• A hike in the nearby mountains – several routes leave from the village, you choose the difficulty.
• The local goat’s cheese, reputedly the best in this part of Andalusia.
Traditional family resort
Our final suggestion for day trips from Marbella takes you to Estepona, another popular Costa del Sol resort slightly further down the coast. But unlike some resorts, Estepona has preserved its traditional character. It also has a great family atmosphere and offers plenty to do and see.
On your day trip to Estepona don’t miss
• The pretty streets in the old town with their whitewashed houses and colourful geraniums.
• The giant murals around the town, all stunning works of art. Ask the tourist office for a map.
• The orchidarium, home to over 1,300 orchids from around the world and a 15-metre high waterfall, all housed under a stunning glass dome.
• Fresh fish and seafood at one of the traditional restaurants in Estepona port.
If you’re looking for the perfect base for a holiday on the Costa del Sol, it doesn’t get much better than Marbella. Book your stay at our boutique hotel now.
Image Museo Picasso Málaga Copyright
