Marbella has it all! The glitzy glamour of Puerto Banus and The Golden Mile, contrasted by leafy and mountainous areas which provide views to die for.
So where is the best place to stay in Marbella? Here is the Swish guide to the neighbourhoods in this divine resort. Can we tempt you here?
The Golden Mile- Where the Magic Happens!
No it’s not paved with gold, but we can see why this is a favourite for hotels, home owners and residents of Marbella who want to enjoy the finer things in life. The Golden Mile refers to an area near the Marbella Club and Puente Romano hotels, a long stretch of beach and an avenue behind it, where you’ll find plenty of bars, restaurants and entertainment. This is where the original Marbella scene began and home to what we lovingly call Marbella’s Old School Chic.
Whether you stay here or not, a trip to Marbella would not be complete without a visit to the sumptuous Michelin starred restaurants in the area or the many bars and nightlife.
Staying on The Golden Mile is highly sought after, some of our favourite villas are this one, contemporary villa inside the Puente Romano resort and LV One, a superb, boutique-style residence inside Los Verdiales, one of the area’s most exclusive enclaves surrounded by greenery and sandwiched between The Puente Romano and The Marbella Club.
Sierra Blanca- The Beverly Hills of Marbella
This area is lovingly referred to as The Beverly Hills of Marbella and we can see why. With luscious mountain and sea views from a privileged vantage point above the town, this private gated community has been designed to showcase luxury living at its best. With a quirky twist, streets are named after composers and musicians and you’ll find a variety of stunningly designed villas here, each with its own charm.  Sierra Blanca is surrounded by pine forest too, and with so much to offer, choosing a villa here might just tip you over the edge into moving here permanently! Set only a short drive from Marbella, this small, gated urbanisation oozes exclusivity and wow factor in one yet it remains very close to the action. One of our favourites? Villa LA.
Nagüeles – A Lesser Known Leafy Paradise
This is a leafy area behind Marbella, where the annual Starlite festival is held every year. If you love the smell of pine trees and are after some tranquillity, this area is for you. Check out La Perla, our charming villa in the heart of Nagüeles ideal for families. It only takes five minutes to drive down to The Golden Mile from this quiet and peaceful area too, so it could be the perfect spot!
San Pedro de Alcantara- Marbella’s Best Kept Secret?
Technically this is not part of Marbella town per se, but it’s worth mentioning as this town sits just outside of Marbella to the West, and has a plethora of up and coming bars, restaurants and Swish favourite, the artisan bakery Fermento! Read more in our guide to where to shop. The town and beach have a stylish yet understated vibe compared to neighbouring Marbella, with a vast expanse of beach promenade. You can stroll, powerwalk or rollerblade here all the way from Puerto Banus if you want to!
Puerto Banus – Glitz and Glamour on the Front Line
Developed during the 1970s this port became truly iconic in the 80s as a party location for the Jet Set, and today remains a focal point of any trip to the area. With exclusive yachts, fast cars and luxury brands, the port is a must- see and celebrated its 50 year anniversary in 2020. Take a walk along the harbour and browse the shops and boutiques.
Marbella Old Town- A Charming Taste of Andalucia
Marbella Old Town is a testament to the tradition behind The Costa Del Sol region, with pretty white-washed buildings and stunning blue flowerpots, (read more here!) Its Orange Tree Square is both a meeting place and a venue to eat, drink and people watch, year-round. Don’t miss a chance to visit by day or for a romantic evening meal head to the little streets around the square.
Nueva Andalucia – For The Love of Golf!
Known as Marbella’s Golf Valley, Nueva AndalucÃa is very close to Puerto Banus, The Golden Mile and Marbella town, but far enough away to offer you your own little sanctuary. Home to several noteworthy golf clubs and courses, this is a perfect place to choose if you are into the sport or indeed, are looking for a quiet holiday base with scenic mountain and sea views. Try Villa Aloha and Villa Paris for starters.  For more information on the region’s golf courses, see our guide here.
Swish take pride in making your stay extra special and we are here before, during and after your trip for support or guidance, 24/7.
