Located in the south of Spain and bathed by the Mediterranean Sea, Marbella is one of Europe's most exclusive summer cities that still retains its own identity. The approximately 28 km of beaches along the Costa del Sol give Marbella considerable prestige. The annual temperature is 19°C and the sun shines for 320 days a year. During the summer, the population of this small Spanish town triples, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere. Close to other interesting cities, it's easy to take day trips to get to know the surrounding areas better. In addition to water activities, Marbella is known as a golfer's paradise.
130,600 inhabitants
Small town, Sea and Mountains
2 hours 20 minutes from Geneva + 1 hour (Bus)
The municipality of Marbella is located in Andalusia, in the province of Malaga on the Mediterranean coast dominated by the Concha Mountain. It is situated between the city of Malaga, 57 km to the east, and the Strait of Gibraltar, 100 km to the west. Marbella enjoys a particularly pleasant microclimate, with a mild Mediterranean climate and abundant sunshine, contributing to its great tourism success throughout most of the year.
In a land inhabited since the Paleolithic era, as evidenced by remains found in the Las Chapas region and the Pecho Redondo cave, the city is believed to have been founded during the Roman period under the name Barbesula. It also holds remnants of Muslim architecture predating the Reconquista. The city was then renamed Barbella and supposedly recaptured by Spanish Christians around 1485, who gave it its current name of Marbella. In the 16th century, the city underwent significant transformations, including the destruction of part of the old town and the Medina to build the current central square of Los Naranjos, as well as the street directly connecting it to the sea.
Undoubtedly, your Spanish courses in Marbella will be punctuated by long sunbathing sessions on the city's splendid beaches, from the famous Puerto Banus to the tranquil Faro, and the fine golden sands of Las Chapas. Each beach offers numerous amenities to enhance your stay, such as parking, showers, kiosks, and sun loungers. In terms of culture and history, make sure to visit the Archaeological Museum of Lots, the San Luís Fort, and the unique Bonsai Museum. The Juan Alameda Promenade is also a pleasant place for leisurely strolls, as well as the downtown harbor with its lively bars and cafes.
Located 45 minutes away from Malaga by bus, Marbella is a charming small town that is best explored on foot or by bicycle. The cost of living in Marbella is roughly equivalent to that of Malaga and lower than that of Paris. For example, expect to pay around €39 for a meal for two at an average restaurant, compared to €52 in Paris. Remember to protect yourself from the strong sunlight to avoid sunburns and heatstroke!
Marbella Tourist Office:
Glorieta de la Fontanilla s/n, 29601 Marbella.
Phone: +34 952 868 977.
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