Marbella Vacation Rentals
Tips on renting in Marbella
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Welcome to Marbella, the sparkling gem of Spain’s Costa del Sol, where your family can experience sun-drenched days and gentle Mediterranean breezes. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves on Playa de la Fontanilla, where soft golden sands invite you and your children to build castles or splash in the clear, shallow waters. Stroll along the famous Marbella Promenade, lined with vibrant cafes and palm trees, perfect for an afternoon ice cream or a leisurely family bike ride with the mountains of Sierra Blanca as your backdrop.
For a day of adventure, head inland to the tranquil Lago de Istán, just a short drive from Marbella. Here, you can paddle together in kayaks, try stand-up paddleboarding, or picnic by the cool, shaded banks while the kids explore nature trails. The nearby La Concha mountain offers gentle hikes with panoramic views—ideal for introducing little explorers to the wonders of the Costa del Sol.
Marbella’s Old Town invites you to wander cobbled streets filled with fragrant orange blossoms and lively plazas. Enjoy family-friendly tapas at Plaza de los Naranjos or visit Alameda Park, where shaded paths and playgrounds provide a perfect break. Whether you visit in spring for wildflowers or in summer for endless beach days, Marbella in the Costa del Sol welcomes your family with warmth, beauty, and endless ways to make memories together.
Nearby cities
Elviria, Marbella
Discover Elviria, Marbella in Costa del Sol—where your family can enjoy golden beaches, shady pine parks, and sunny days perfect for outdoor fun together.
Benahavís
Discover Benahavís in Costa del Sol—where your family can hike green hills, picnic by sparkling rivers, and savor sunny days in Spain’s friendliest village.
Calahonda
Discover Calahonda, Costa del Sol—where your family can build sandcastles, explore sunlit parks, and savor breezy evenings by the sparkling Mediterranean sea.
Mijas Costa
Discover Mijas Costa in Costa del Sol—where your family can enjoy sunny beaches, gentle waves, playgrounds, and scenic walks perfect for all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Marbella has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Marbella, Spain delights families who love the outdoors with its sun-drenched beaches along the Costa del Sol, where golden sands meet the gentle Mediterranean. The iconic Paseo Marítimo promenade offers scenic strolls and cycling paths, while the lush Parque de la Constitución provides playgrounds and shaded gardens for younger visitors. Adventurous families can explore the Sierra Blanca mountains for hiking with panoramic sea views, or enjoy boat trips from Puerto Banús, spotting dolphins and savoring the vibrant marina atmosphere.
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Marbella is quite walkable, especially around the charming Old Town, where families can easily explore Plaza de los Naranjos, quaint shops, and tapas bars on foot. The palm-lined Paseo Marítimo offers a scenic stroll along the Mediterranean, perfect for families with strollers. However, if you plan to visit attractions like Puerto Banús, nearby beaches, or venture into the Sierra Blanca mountains, renting a car will give you greater flexibility and convenience.
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Absolutely, Marbella offers several pet-friendly rentals with fenced yards, perfect for travelers bringing their furry companions. Many villas and holiday homes in areas like Nueva Andalucía or Elviria have secure outdoor spaces where pets can roam safely. Additionally, the city boasts scenic walking trails such as those in the Sierra Blanca foothills and along the Paseo Marítimo, making it easy to enjoy daily strolls with your pet while soaking up Marbella’s Mediterranean charm.
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Families can make the most of a short 2-night stay in Marbella by starting with a stroll through the charming Old Town, where Plaza de los Naranjos bursts with vibrant cafés and orange trees. Spend sunny hours at Playa de Venus, perfect for children to play and parents to relax. In the evening, explore Puerto Banús, famous for its luxury yachts and lively atmosphere, then enjoy authentic Andalusian cuisine at a seaside chiringuito for a memorable local experience.
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For families seeking calm, shallow waters for young children in Marbella, Playa de la Fontanilla is an excellent choice. Located close to the city center, this beach is known for its gentle waves and soft golden sand, making it ideal for little ones to splash around safely. The promenade nearby offers plenty of cafes and amenities, while the clear, shallow shoreline ensures parents can relax as their children play in a secure environment.
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The closest ski resort to Marbella is Sierra Nevada, located about two and a half hours away by car in the province of Granada. This vibrant resort boasts some of the highest peaks in Spain, offering excellent skiing and snowboarding from late November to early May. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea from the slopes, explore charming après-ski spots in Pradollano village, and even squeeze in a day trip to the historic Alhambra in Granada.
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In Marbella, using public transportation is generally more affordable than renting a car, especially for travelers planning to explore the city center and nearby towns like Puerto Banús or San Pedro de Alcántara. The local Avanza buses provide frequent and economical service along the Costa del Sol, making it easy to reach attractions like the historic Old Town or the beaches without the hassle of parking fees and fuel costs that come with car rentals.
