Where to stay in Marbella: Your Ultimate Area Guide & Hotel Picks 2025 Edition
Marbella. Just saying the name makes you want to reach for your biggest sunglasses and a fancy cocktail. Tucked away on Spain’s ridiculously sunny Costa del Sol, this is Europe’s luxurious playground.
Known as the glitzy jewel of Andalusia, it’s where the rich and famous come to get their tan on. But don’t worry, you don’t need a super yacht to have a super time. Just 40 minutes from Málaga Airport, Marbella is your easy to reach ticket to an A-list escape.
So why is everyone and their glamorous aunt flocking here? It’s the perfect cocktail of swanky luxury, stunning scenery, and a social scene that’s always buzzing. Once a humble whitewashed fishing village, it’s had a major glow up, blending its old-school Andalusian charm with a dash of Moorish magic.
When deciding where to stay in Marbella, depending on whether you’re planning a romantic escape, taking the kids on holiday, or gearing up for a legendary trip with your friends, we can find your perfect Marbella match because…..The Only Way is Marbs.
Best Overall Area to Stay: The Golden Mile
If Marbella were a movie, the Golden Mile would be its dazzling lead role. Stretching between Marbella’s city centre and the see-and-be-seen marina of Puerto Banús, this is the spot that truly has it all.
It’s the best of all worlds choice, lined with posh hotels, divine restaurants, and sandy beaches. Honestly, you can’t go wrong here.
Perfect for: Couples, families, teens, beach lovers, and anyone who wants a bit of everything.
Where to Stay on The Golden Mile:
Wallet-Friendly Wow:
- NH Collection Marbella:
A solid choice right in the middle of things. With a gym, pool, and 24 hour front desk for your late night whims, it’s comfort without the crazy price tag.
- Alanda Marbella Hotel:
A short stroll from the beach, this place is clean, modern, and has a wellness spa for when you need to recover from all that relaxing.
5-Star & Fabulous:
- ME Marbella:
Super stylish and recently renovated, this hotel screams Mediterranean chic. It’s the cool kid on the block.
- Hotel Don Pepe Gran Meliá:
A classic beauty. It blends Spanish charm with top-tier luxury and even has a kids’ club to keep the little ones busy while you sip sangria.
Living the Luxe Life:
- Marbella Club Hotel:
The OG of Marbella luxury. This is the place that put Marbella on the map back in the 70s, and trust us, it’s still got it. The service is legendary.
- Puente Romano Beach Resort:
A sprawling beachfront paradise with a whopping 15 restaurants. You could eat somewhere new every night for two weeks! It also has a world-class spa, tennis courts, and its ultra chic sister hotel, Nobu, right on-site.
Best for Nightlife: Puerto Banús
Welcome to the land of ‘go big or go home.’ Puerto Banús is where superyachts bob in the harbour, sports cars crawl down the streets (because despite the engine size, the streets are too small for them get anywhere fast), and designer bags are the main accessory.
If your holiday goals involve late nights, loud music, and a bit of showing off, this is your spiritual home. People watching here is practically a competitive sport.
Perfect for: Party animals, luxury shoppers, and the “sleep when you’re home” crew.
Where to Stay in Puerto Banús:
Mid-Range Rockstar:
- Hard Rock Hotel Marbella:
An adult only, pet-friendly hotel with enough bars, restaurants, and rock ‘n’ roll flair to make you feel like a star. There’s even a casino if you’re feeling lucky.
High-End Haven:
- ME Marbella: Yep, it’s on this list too! It’s close enough to the madness for you to dive in, but chic and luxurious enough to feel like a proper retreat when you need a break
Best for Families: Elviria
Had enough of the glitz and just want to… you know… relax? Head east to Elviria. Think of it as Marbella on decaf. It’s got wide, sandy beaches perfect for sandcastle construction, nearby adventure parks for when the kids get restless. But still home to the world famous Nikki Beach Club.
Perfect for: Families, serious beach bums, and anyone who’s forgotten what ‘relaxation’ feels like.
Where to Stay in Elviria:
The Chilled-Out Choice:
- Gran Marbella Resort & Beach Club:
Right on the beach with a classic Andalusian vibe and a Champneys spa. Perfect for a blissed out family break.
The Polished Pick:
- Don Carlos Resort & Spa:
Freshly renovated with lush gardens, multiple pools, and a serene spa. It’s also right next door to the world-famous Nikki Beach, in case you want to dip a toe back into the glam life.
Best for Golf Lovers: Benahavís
Trade your flip flops for golf spikes and head for the hills! Benahavís is a gorgeous green valley that’s a golfer’s playground. It’s quiet, and beautiful, and conveniently close to the Marbella Football Centre for any other sports nuts in your group.
Perfect for: Golfers, nature lovers, and anyone who thinks a good walk involves 18 holes.
Where to Stay in Benahavís:
Family-Friendly Fairways:
- The Westin La Quinta Golf Resort & Spa:
Smack dab on a golf course, this place is a hole in one. It’s family friendly with a kids’ club and a great spa.
Pure Palace Living:
- Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Resort:
It looks like an 18th century palace and is surrounded by three golf courses. It’s as grand and luxurious as it sounds.
Best for Culture & Charm: Marbella Old Town
Ready for your “lost in a charming European village” movie moment? Welcome to the Old Town (Casco Antiguo). Get your camera ready, because with its cobblestone streets, flower draped balconies, and ancient city walls, every single corner is a photo op waiting to happen.
Perfect for: Culture vultures, romantics, and Instagram addicts.
Where to Stay in the Old Town:
Boutique & Beautiful:
- The Town House:
A cozy and elegant hideaway right in the heart of the action. True boutique luxury.
- Hotel Claude Marbella:
A stunningly restored 17th century townhouse that’s oozing with character and sophistication.
Quick Hits: More Top Spots
Best Area Just Outside Marbella?
Estepona. Think of it as Marbella’s ridiculously charming, slightly more down to earth cousin. Check out METT Hotel & Beach Resort for modern vibes or Finca Cortesin Golf & Spa if you’re feeling fancy.
For the Boutique & Boho Crowd?
Boho Club is a trendy, pet friendly oasis with live music. Or try the adults only Nobu Marbella for some sleek, Japanese-inspired chic.
For Those Who Want It ALL (Inclusive)?
Ikos Andalusia. Located near Estepona, this place redefines all inclusive with fine dining, kids’ clubs, and beachfront luxury.
For a Bit of Pampering (Okay, a LOT of Pampering)?
The spas at Marbella Club Hotel, Puente Romano (a Six Senses spa!), and Don Carlos Resort are basically heaven on earth.
Your Burning Questions Answered (Probably)
Which part of Marbella is the best?
Ah, the million dollar question! Truth…it totally depends on your vibe.
- The Golden Mile is the superstar all rounder. You get the best of both worlds. Think palm trees, sea views and serious luxury. Home to some of the best restaurants, exclusive hotels and stunning beach front villas.
- Puerto Banús is for living it large. If your credit card needs a workout and you love a good party, go here. Think designer boutiques, buzzing nightlife and luxury yachts.
- Elviria is where you go to actually breathe. It’s relaxed, laid back and family friendly. There is also easy access to the low key vibe of Puerto Cabopino.
What’s the most beautiful part of Marbella?
The Golden Mile is a top contender with its palm tree promenades and perfect sea views. But don’t sleep on Sierra Blanca in the hills for epic panoramic views of sea and mountains. Its a firm favourite for hikers and nature lovers.
Or Playa de Cabopino with its wild sand dunes and pine forests for a more rugged, natural beauty. The scenic boardwalks and little marina give it a relaxed raw costal feel.
Where do the celebs stay in Marbella?
Okay, let’s spill the tea. The A listers love the privacy and insane service at icons like Marbella Club, Puente Romano, and Nobu Hotel. These hotels offer world class service, beachfront locations, and total discretion.
They’re also hiding out in the hills of La Zagaleta, gated villas so exclusive that sneaking a peak through the gaps is near impossible. If you want a taste of that lifestyle, renting a villa here is the way to go.
What is the difference between Puerto Banús and Marbella?
Think of it this way: Marbella is the whole, delicious pizza. Puerto Banús is that one slice piled high with all the most expensive, dazzling toppings (and maybe some gold leaf, just because).
It’s a district within Marbella, famous for its flashy marina, designer shops, and party scene.
The Final Takeaway
So, there you have it; the grand tour of Marbella’s hotspots!
Choosing where to stay in Marbella is all about the kind of holiday you’re dreaming of. Go for the Golden Mile if you want it all, hit Puerto Banús if you’re ready to party or chill out in Elviria with the family.
Find your zen on the golf courses of Benahavís. Fall in love with the history of the Old Town or explore the charms of nearby Estepona.
No matter where you drop your suitcase, you’re in for a ridiculously sunny, stylish, and unforgettable trip. Enjoy!
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