We can’t rave about Marbella enough: We love the sights, the smells, the people and of course the weather! At Swish Marbella, we choose to spend all year in this precious city, but for those just passing through, we asked ourselves, could you really ‘do Marbella’ in a day?
We put the question to the Swish team, and after an extensive office debate, we came-up with a Swish itinerary for how to spend just one day in Marbella.
Follow our schedule to get the most from Marbella, even if you are only granted 12 hours to spend here!
How to Spend a Day in Marbella, Swish Style
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First few hours in Marbella: Start the Day Right on the Paseo.
Let’s assume your 12 hours start in the late morning. Commence the day at 11 a.m. or so, after all, who doesn’t love a good lie-in? Head to Marbella’s beautiful promenade, the paseo, for a strong coffee and some even stronger people watching. You can’t beat the uplifting sights you will see if you take a stroll here. Impressive sea views help you embrace the day with gusto!
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12 – 1 p.m. Tour Marbella’s Old Town and Alameda Park
One part of Marbella that you must see is the old town. With pretty flowerpots adorning cobbled streets, fountains and traditional architecture, it’s worth at least an hour or two of your precious day in town!
Start this section of your day with a walk around Alameda Park, which is full of lush greenery and flowers, then cross over the main road and head up to the cobbled streets and the old town’s Plaza de Los Naranjos (Orange tree square.) Check out the cute shops and cafes or stop for a drink.
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1 – 2.30 p.m. Lunch at Casanis in Marbella’s Old Town
As you will already be in the old town, stop for lunch at Casanis. This French Mediterranean Bistrot is sure to delight, both in terms of the food and the pretty ambience. (And, for even more restaurant recommendations in Marbella, take a look here.)
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Spend the Afternoon at The Beach
With only 6 or 7 hours left of your 12, head to the beach, (it would be almost criminal not to!) If it’s winter or colder weather, you can still hang-out at one of the many covered beach restaurants, or, in warmer months, check out one of these fabulous beach clubs in Marbella.
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Early Evening in Marbella
The good news is that the days are long in Spain. It’s rare to make dinner reservations before 8 or 8.30 p.m., so after the beach, there is still time to continue to the spa! Choose from a selection of divine massages and treatments curated by Swish Concierge at our villas.
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8.30 p.m. Dinner
Now it’s time to eat! Marbella has a selection of marvellous eateries, and while we argued over this extensively, Leña by Dani Garcia won hands down as a favourite. This is a most prestigious steakhouse inside Puente Romano on The Golden Mile. You will not be disappointed!
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10 – 11 p.m. Drinks
Marbella has plenty of options to keep your evening in full swing. The city is home to numerous bars and clubs, but with just one day to spend here, we recommend you continue at The Puente Romano. The Plaza is the place to see and be seen, enjoying a drink or two and good company. If there is any chance that you can extend your stay a little longer, dance the night away in La Suite. After all, being home by midnight is all a bit too “Cinderella”, isn’t it?
Our final thoughts: 12 hours in Marbella?
Marbella is a stunning destination with so much to offer visitors—even if you only have a few hours. From exploring La Alameda Park and trying traditional Spanish cuisine at nearby restaurants to spending time at beach clubs or taking part in exciting nightlife activities—there’s a great deal to do. But, can you really “do Marbella” in 12 hours? Our opinion is a resounding “no”, as there is so much to see here! We strongly recommend you stay a little longer to get the most out of this vibrant city.
Message us for more advice or tips on how to get the most from Marbella.
With love,
The Swish team xx
