Tourism in Marbella

Whether you’re looking for a holiday home, retreat or just looking for a good investment portfolio, Marbella has something for everyone. The perfect mix of beaches, golf, shopping and culture, Marbella is a unique, one of a kind destination. Tourism in Marbella is one of the main economic activities of the city and the region and constitutes the basic structure of its economy. Tourism is a crucial source of employment and income for locals, both directly by providing jobs in the hotel industry, shops, businesses and services, and indirectly by serving as an important source of sales for local firms.

Marbella is famous for its miles of white sandy beaches, the beautiful Andalusian city centre, and for being one of Spain‘s most popular tourist destinations. Every year thousands of tourists flock to this white and blue city in search of a fun vacation. Its warm climate makes it ideal for golfing, swimming, surfing, sunbathing or simply strolling on its long sandy beaches.

tourism in marbella

About Marbella

Marbella is a Spanish municipality in the province of Málaga and of the autonomous community of Andalusia with about 141,463 inhabitants as of 2018. The geographical position of Marbella is within the Costa del Sol coastal area. In addition to being on the Mediterranean Sea, this town is also one of the most important tourist areas that can be found in Europe.

There is a very active nightlife, shopping areas, and golf courses. The old centre is very beautiful with whitewashed houses, neo-classical architecture and cobalt blue bougainvillaea tumbling from balconies, terraces and walls of whitewashed buildings.

Where the mountains and sea meet in the heart of Andalusia, it’s easy to see why Marbella has been a favourite getaway for generations – and why it continues to attract visitors from across the globe. Residents, who are known as Malagueños take pride in their beautiful city. Striking architecture aside, Marbella’s top draws include incredible year-round weather, fine dining on the beach and an amazing marina. Not to mention some of Europe’s most coveted golf courses where pros have played.

Types of Property in Marbella

  • Spanish Property Hotspots to Buy a Place in the Sun

  • The Spanish Property Guide for Home Buyers

  • Restaurants in Marbella

  • Resorts in Marbella

  • Marbella Mediterranean Sea

  • Tourism in Marbella

  • Beaches in Marbella

  • Architecture in Marbella

  • Villas in Marbella

  • Real Estate in Marbella

Where are the Top Sights in Marbella?

Creeping down the pine-scented streets of Marbella, Spain’s most charming coastal resort, you’ll encounter the best life has to offer: warm ocean breezes, hot sunshine, fragrant orange groves, and a full plate of international appeal.

Small enough to be intimate, this community is also large enough to offer just about every perk you could want from a tourist destination. Marbella is unique in its rich cultural heritage and distinctive architecture, fabulous beaches and long stretches of golden sand backed by the emerald-green Mediterranean. Here are some of the top sights:

Puerto Banús

The Puerto Banús is the most exclusive marina on the Costa del Sol and is located in the port of Nueva Andalucía in Marbella. This powerhouse of a marina has become one of Europe’s most successful superyacht destinations. It has numerous yacht mooring berths, each with its specific services and amenities. There are facilities for dry-docking and maintenance as well as a boatyard for refitting yachts.

Plaza de los Naranjos

Marbella’s finest plaza, as well as best known in the city, is the Plaza de Los Naranjos. The Plaza de Los Naranjos is surrounded by white-washed Andalusian homes and the historic Casa Consistorial, the Casa del Corregidor and the Ermita de Santiago buildings.

Guadalmina River

The river Guadalmina is one of the most beautiful rivers in Andalucia and perfect for canyoning, rafting and golf. To the east, beaches, restaurants and marinas are a paradise for those who enjoy watersports with an evening of flamenco on their doorstep.

Castillo Sohail

A historical and romantic tourist location: Sohail Castle is situated in Fuengirola, Spain. The charming estate, with gardens, renovated ruins is a popular attraction for tourists. It has a reception area which functions as the venue of several festivals and concerts year-round.

Things to Do in Marbella

A host of wonderful sights have put Marbella’s charming and delightful attractions squarely on the must-see list for all who head to southern Spain.

Across the region, palm tree-lined beaches and hidden coves, plus weaving lanes, labyrinthine streets, elegant mansions, fragrant orange groves and pretty squares and plazas await discovery, demonstrating that both history and spectacular beauty is written on Marbella’s pages.

Marbella offers a variety of things to do and see for all ages and interests. Whether you are seeking a buzzy night out on the town or to keep your hands busy (and stomach filled) exploring its tempting restaurants, the city has it all. When it comes to a Spanish locale, enjoying the marina life from a boat deck is always high on the agenda. From fine-dining ocean-side to harbour hopping and back again, whether by foot, by bicycle, or in a jeep tour of the coast’s beauty; there’s no denying that this is a stunning destination.

tourism in marbella

Why Invest in Real Estate in Marbella?

The real estate market in Marbella is one of the most robust on the Costa del Sol, due to a long history of tourists visiting and the lively beaches that run alongside the coast. The tourism sector in Marbella has changed over the course of its economic history, which started with five-star resorts for a small number of people staying for several weeks at a time and then becoming a resort town for all manner of people looking to enjoy the climate and vibrant lifestyle.

This popular vacation spot has everything you could ask for – a beach, luxury marina, shopping, restaurants, nightlife and an economy that is thriving. Nestled on the Mediterranean Coastline, Marbella is undeniably perfect for living or vacationing. Marbella also offers many real estate opportunities for both short-term rentals and long-term investments.

Property for sale in Marbella

This exquisite selection of properties for sale in Marbella is located in areas that provide the very best of what this popular Spanish municipality has to offer, whether it is a tranquil waterfront location with its marina or the more lively town centre with its shops, bars and restaurants. These properties are set in cities or towns close to the beach, with golf courses, a vibrant night scene and other facilities for those who enjoy an active life.

Property for sale in Marbella offers high rental yields and a strong appreciation of value due to increasing demand from tourists year-round. The region is a great investment ground for those interested in homes for sale such as second homes; luxury beach homes, condos, townhouses and apartments.

Ready to buy your dream home?

With so much history, famous people, culture, shopping, beaches and mountains to enjoy within easy reach of the beachside resort, Marbella can be your perfect holiday base in Spain. Our first-hand experience of the area and our comprehensive understanding of the property market have helped us to develop some of the best investment properties in Marbella. Call Spot Blue on +44 (0) 208 339 6036 to view our exclusive range of property listings and start the journey to owning your own property in Marbella.