COSTA DEL SOL
Málaga and the Costa del Sol are the vibrant heart of southern Spain, where sun-drenched beaches meet a city rich in art and history. It combines the lively culture of Málaga City with the stunning coastal beauty of its famous coastline.
This region is a modern metropolis and a renowned holiday destination. It is a land of iconic sights, from the bustling city core and its artistic heritage to the charming seaside villages and mountains.
Malaga
Most Popular Attractions
Málaga City Core:
Málaga Cathedral: Known as “La Manquita” (the one-armed lady), this Renaissance cathedral is famous for its unfinished south tower and grand interior.
Alcazaba: A stunning Moorish fortress-palace with beautiful gardens, courtyards, and incredible views over the city and port.
Gibralfaro Castle: Connected to the Alcazaba, this 14th-century castle offers the most spectacular panoramic views of Málaga and the Mediterranean Sea.
Roman Theatre: Located at the foot of the Alcazaba, this is the oldest monument in Málaga City and a testament to its ancient history.
Picasso Museum Málaga: Located in the historic Palacio de Buenavista, it houses a major collection of works by Málaga’s most famous son, Pablo Picasso.
Museo Carmen Thyssen: Features a superb collection of 19th-century Spanish and Andalusian art.
Centre Pompidou Málaga: An art museum housed in a colorful glass cube, showcasing contemporary art.
Mercado Central de Atarazanas: A bustling market with a stunning stained-glass entrance and a wide array of fresh local produce, seafood, and tapas.
Calle Larios: The main shopping street in the city, famous for its elegant architecture and lively atmosphere.
Soho (Arts District): A vibrant neighborhood with street art, independent galleries, and bohemian cafes.
Muelle Uno: A modern portside promenade with shops, restaurants, and views of the superyachts and cruise ships.
Plaza de la Merced: A historic square where Picasso was born, a central hub for locals and tourists.
La Malagueta Bullring: A grand bullring located near the city center, offering tours and a museum.
Parque de Málaga: A beautiful park running parallel to the port, with lush tropical plants and fountains.
Palacio de la Aduana (Museo de Málaga): A grand building housing the provincial museum of fine arts and archaeology.
Jardín Botánico Histórico La Concepción: A beautiful botanical garden just outside the city center, showcasing a vast collection of tropical plants.
Málaga Province Countryside & Towns:
Antequera: Known as the “Heart of Andalusia,” with impressive megalithic dolmens, a Moorish fortress, and numerous churches.
Ronda: A dramatic town famous for its Puente Nuevo bridge spanning a deep gorge, one of the most photographed sights in Spain.
Caminito del Rey: A breathtaking walkway along the steep walls of a narrow gorge, once considered the most dangerous path in the world.
Frigiliana: A stunning white village with winding streets, colorful flowers, and beautiful views of the coast.
Nerja Caves: A series of magnificent caves with impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations, also a home to an archaeological site.
Activities & Experiences
Visit the Roman Theater and Alcazaba: Explore the ancient ruins of a Roman theater right next to the impressive Moorish fortress and palace, the Alcazaba. This unique combination of historical sites sits in the heart of Málaga’s city center.
Explore the Gibralfaro Castle: Hike or take a bus up to this medieval Moorish fortress that sits on a hill overlooking the city. The panoramic views of the port and the bullring are breathtaking, especially at sunset.
Go on a Museum Tour: Málaga is a cultural hub with over 30 museums. The Picasso Museum, the Centre Pompidou Málaga, and the Carmen Thyssen Museum are the most famous, but don’t miss smaller gems like the Museo de Málaga.
Walk the Caminito del Rey: Located about an hour’s drive from Málaga city, this spectacular walkway is a thrilling hike suspended along the steep walls of a narrow gorge.
Stroll Through the Botanical Gardens (Jardín Botánico Histórico La Concepción): Escape the city’s hustle and bustle by visiting these stunning gardens, which are home to thousands of tropical and subtropical plants from around the world.
Go on a Tapas Crawl in the City Center: Dive into Málaga’s culinary scene by hopping between traditional tapas bars near Calle Larios and Plaza de la Merced.
Hike in the Montes de Málaga Natural Park: Just north of the city, this natural park offers a network of hiking trails through pine forests, with fantastic views of the city and coast.
Enjoy the Playa de la Malagueta: Just a short walk from the city center, this urban beach is perfect for a quick dip in the sea or a stroll along the promenade lined with chiringuitos (beach bars).
Take a Boat Trip from the Port: Explore the coastline with a boat tour, go dolphin watching, or rent a kayak to see Málaga from a different perspective.
Take a Cooking Class: Learn to prepare classic Malagueño dishes like espetos de sardinas (sardine skewers) or gazpachuelo (a fish and potato soup) from a local expert.
Local Tips & Transport
Walking is Best: Málaga’s city center is compact and very pedestrian-friendly. Most of the main attractions—like the Roman Theater, the Alcazaba, the port, and the main shopping streets—are all within easy walking distance.
Public Transport: Málaga has an efficient bus network (EMT) and two metro lines.
Buses: The EMT bus network is extensive and the best way to get around the city. You can buy a single ticket from the driver or a rechargeable card (Tarjeta de Viaje) for cheaper trips.
Metro: The two metro lines connect the city center to the west and south, and are a great way to avoid traffic, especially for trips to the airport or the university.
From the Airport: The Cercanías train line (C1) is the fastest and most affordable way to get from the airport (Aeropuerto de Málaga) to the city center and the Costa del Sol. A taxi is also a convenient option, with a fixed fare to the city center.
Embrace the Siesta: Like the rest of Andalusia, many small businesses and shops in Málaga close for lunch and a rest, usually from 2 PM to 5 PM. It’s a great time to find a restaurant for a long lunch or relax from the afternoon heat.
Dining Times: Malagueños eat lunch from 2 PM to 4 PM and dinner starts late, often after 9 PM. If you want to find the best local spots and dine with the locals, don’t show up for dinner too early.
Flamenco: While Málaga has flamenco traditions, it’s not the epicenter of flamenco like Seville. If you want to see a show, seek out a genuine tablao for an authentic experience.
The Art of Espetos: You’ll see locals grilling sardines on skewers (espetos) in boats filled with sand on the beach. This is a culinary tradition unique to Málaga. If you see a chiringuito with smoke rising, pull up a chair and try some.
Hidden Gems:
- Atarazanas Market: This vibrant central market, housed in a historic building with a stunning stained-glass window, is a feast for the senses. It’s a great place to sample fresh produce, local cheeses, and delicious tapas.
- Santuario de la Victoria: Located on a hill just outside the city center, this beautiful church offers a quiet escape and great views of the city.
- Muelle Uno: A modern, open-air shopping and dining area right at the port. It’s perfect for a sunset stroll, with views of the city skyline and the Gibralfaro Castle.
Top Restaurants
Casa Lola [$15-$25] – A hugely popular, lively tavern with several locations in the city center, known for its creative “pinchos” and a wide selection of traditional tapas.
Antigua Casa de Guardia [$15-$25] – Málaga’s oldest bar, a rustic and authentic spot that has been serving Málaga sweet wines straight from the barrel since 1840, accompanied by classic tapas.
Mesón Mariano [$20-$30] – A classic, no-frills restaurant famous among locals for its superb artichoke dishes, prepared in various ways, and other seasonal traditional tapas.
Bodega Bar El Pimpi [$20-$30] – While popular with tourists, this iconic bodega is still a local institution, famous for its historic setting, lively atmosphere, sweet Málaga wines, and traditional Andalusian tapas.
La Tranca [$15-$25] – A vibrant and tiny bar in the city center, famous for its vermouth on tap, great “tostas,” and a soundtrack of classic Spanish tunes.
El Mesón de Cervantes [$25-$35] – A classic and highly-regarded tapas bar near the Cervantes Theater, known for its creative take on traditional Spanish dishes and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Las Merchanas [$15-$25] – A hidden gem known for its rustic, no-frills vibe and a menu focused on high-quality cured meats and cheeses, served on simple paper plates.
Bar La Goleta [$15-$25] – A small, traditional bar in the historic center that locals love for its excellent “ensaladilla rusa” and a range of classic tapas at great prices.
Cortijo de Pepe [$20-$30] – A bustling, old-school tavern on Plaza de la Merced that has been serving traditional Málaga fare for decades, popular for its grilled meats and tapas.
Bar Jamón [$15-$25] – A classic and very popular spot in the city center, famous for its delicious “jamón ibérico,” high-quality charcuterie, and a great selection of local wines.
Taberna La Manuela [$15-$25] – A small, traditional tavern in the city center that offers a perfect local experience, serving simple yet delicious tapas and excellent wine from the region.
La Casa del Tigre [$25-$40] – A hidden gem in the historic center with a creative menu and a cozy, unique atmosphere, blending traditional and modern flavors.
Chiringuito El Balneario Baños del Carmen [$20-$40] – A classic beachfront restaurant with incredible views of the sea, perfect for a casual lunch of fried fish, “espetos de sardinas” (grilled sardines), and paella.
Merced 14 [$25-$40] – A modern spot in the historic center with a traditional feel, offering a creative menu that blends traditional Spanish flavors with contemporary techniques.
Chiringuito El Litoral [$25-$40] – A popular beachside spot known for its fresh fish, seafood, and the famous “espetos,” all served in a lively, informal atmosphere.
Tapeo de Cervantes [$25-$35] – A renowned and often busy tapas bar in the city center that offers a wide variety of inventive and traditional tapas.
Uvedoble Taberna [$25-$40] – A modern and creative tapas bar near the Alcazaba, known for its inventive menu that puts a new spin on traditional Andalusian flavors.
La Cosmopolita [$30-$50] – A bustling and sophisticated “guiso-bar” known for its delicious stews, high-quality products, and a menu that changes daily based on market availability.
Alejandro [$40-$70] – A modern restaurant with a focus on high-quality, seasonal ingredients and a creative approach to Spanish cuisine.
El Descorche de la Taberna de la Manuela [$25-$40] – A contemporary extension of the traditional La Manuela, this spot offers a more refined and creative menu with a strong focus on wine.
Tapería de la Abuela [$20-$35] – A small and charming spot with a modern approach to traditional cuisine, offering beautifully presented and flavorful tapas.
El Pimpi Marinero [$30-$50] – A more modern and seafood-focused version of the classic El Pimpi, this restaurant offers creative dishes with a beautiful view of the port.
Mamarracha [$25-$40] – A trendy and lively spot in the city center, known for its creative tapas, a great selection of cocktails, and a modern, youthful atmosphere.
KGB [$25-$40] – A creative and playful tapas bar with a focus on modern cuisine and a unique, secret-agent theme.
La Taberna del Pintxo [$20-$35] – A popular spot in the city center with a Basque-inspired menu of “pintxos” (small bites on bread) and creative tapas.
Restaurante José Carlos García [$100-$150] – A two-Michelin-starred restaurant located at the port, offering a sophisticated and avant-garde tasting menu that celebrates local products and the flavors of Andalusia.
Kaleja [$70-$120] – A Michelin-starred restaurant in the heart of the city, known for its creative tasting menu that focuses on traditional flavors and cooking over fire.
La Sole del Pimpi [$50-$80] – A high-end restaurant with a focus on Mediterranean and Asian fusion cuisine, owned by the same group as El Pimpi, offering a unique and elegant dining experience.
Óleo Restaurante [$50-$80] – Located in the Contemporary Art Center (CAC), this modern and elegant restaurant offers a creative menu that blends Mediterranean cuisine with Japanese influences, including an excellent sushi bar.
D’Platos [$40-$70] – A contemporary restaurant with a focus on high-quality products and a sophisticated, creative menu.
Arrozante [$40-$70] – A fine dining restaurant specializing in high-quality rice dishes and paellas, with a modern and elegant atmosphere.
La Deriva [$40-$70] – A stylish and modern restaurant in the Soho district with a creative menu and a great reputation for its unique dishes and relaxed vibe.
Mercado Central de Atarazanas [$15-$30] – Not a single restaurant but a vibrant market with numerous food stalls and bars, perfect for a casual lunch of fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional tapas.
Astrid [$20-$40] – A Peruvian restaurant in the city center that offers a unique and flavorful dining experience with a wide variety of ceviches, tiraditos, and other Peruvian classics.
El Pescaito de Carmen [$25-$40] – A popular and authentic seafood restaurant located near the beach, known for its fresh fish, classic fried seafood, and a lively, local atmosphere.
La Caravana [$20-$40] – A fantastic Latin American fusion spot with a focus on fresh, healthy ingredients and a menu that can be fully veganized.
Recyclo Bike Café [$15-$25] – A unique cafe with a blend of an alternative atmosphere and healthy food options, popular for brunch and quick bites.
Mimo Vegan Bistro [$20-$35] – One of the best vegan restaurants in the city center, offering creative and delicious plant-based dishes.
Vino Mio [$30-$50] – A unique restaurant that offers dinner and a flamenco show, blending traditional Spanish cuisine with a memorable cultural experience.
El Almacén del Vino [$30-$50] – A unique spot in the city center that doubles as a wine shop and a restaurant, offering an excellent selection of local and international wines paired with a creative menu.
Venta El Túnel [$20-$35] – A classic “venta” (a traditional roadside inn/restaurant) located on the old road to Granada, famous for its roasted lamb and traditional mountain cuisine.
Venta Los Montañeses [$20-$35] – A traditional restaurant in the Montes de Málaga Natural Park, known for its rustic, hearty dishes and a beautiful setting.
Restaurante El Rincón de la Abuela [$25-$40] – A charming restaurant in the town of Mijas, offering traditional Andalusian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
Restaurante El Higuerón [$30-$50] – Located in Fuengirola, this restaurant has incredible coastal views and is known for its grilled meats and traditional Spanish cuisine.
La Milla [$50-$80] – A fantastic beachfront restaurant in Marbella that specializes in high-quality seafood and modern Spanish cuisine.
La Cónsula [$50-$80] – A prestigious restaurant located in a former consulate building in Marbella, offering a refined dining experience with a focus on classic Mediterranean dishes.
Restaurante Los Marinos José [$60-$90] – An acclaimed seafood restaurant in Fuengirola that is a true institution, known for its top-quality fresh fish and seafood served simply and expertly.
Top Cocktail Bars & Clubs
Puerta Oscura: Found in the city center, this refined establishment merges vintage décor with a contemporary style. It offers a selection of innovative cocktails in a stylish setting.
Chester & Punk: With a modern, industrial vibe, this bar in Málaga’s vibrant Soho district offers a wide variety of cocktails and shots, perfect for a lively night out.
Chloe Bar: A cozy, intimate cocktail bar located in the heart of Málaga’s historic center, where the bartender prepares drinks right in front of you.
Mañana Cocktail Bar Malaga: This friendly spot, just a short walk from the central Plaza de la Merced, offers a wide selection of classic and contemporary cocktails.
La Terraza de la Alcazaba (Batik): A rooftop bar at the top of a hostel near the Alcazaba fortress, offering stunning views of the city. A great spot for a chill-out atmosphere.
Hotel Molina Lario Rooftop Bar: Located in the city center, this central rooftop bar features a pool and a magnificent view of the city’s skyline, making it a perfect spot for sunset drinks.
Bar La Terraza De Valeria: Situated with a brilliant view of the port, this bar offers great drinks and excellent service, making it a wonderful stop after a day of sightseeing in Málaga.
Cobalto 15: An “exotic terrace” with nice views of the harbor and a laid-back ambiance, this bar is a great place to relax and enjoy a drink with friends.
ZZ Pub: While known for live rock and blues, this spot in the city center also serves as a great pre-party venue with a long-standing history in Málaga’s nightlife scene.
Barsovia: A classic bar and club in the city center known for its retro music and vibrant, colorful atmosphere.
Central Beers: Perfect for those who prefer beer, this craft beer bar in the city center offers a wide selection of local and international brews.
Antigua Casa de Guardia: A historic and traditional bar near the port, famous for its local sweet wines, which are served directly from the casks.
El Pimpi: An iconic and historic spot in Málaga, a must-visit for its traditional ambiance and local wines, located right next to the Roman Theatre.
La Madriguera Craft Beer: A casual craft beer bar with a strong selection and a ska punk aesthetic, located slightly outside the main tourist hub but popular with locals.
Sala Gold: A popular and stylish club in the city center with a flamboyant, retro-chic atmosphere, themed parties, DJs, and light shows. It’s known for a mix of reggaeton, commercial, and house music.
Discoteca Andén: One of the largest and most famous clubs in Málaga, located near the train station, featuring multiple halls, bars, and VIP lounges.
Liceo: Housed in a renovated 19th-century palace in the historic center, this is a long-standing and popular nightclub that also hosts live flamenco performances.
Theatro Club Málaga: A high-energy club set in a former theater in the city center, offering a unique and extravagant experience with live performances and diverse music.
Velvet Club Málaga: A popular spot for live bands, located centrally in the city, offering a great alternative to electronic music.
Gallery Club: A trendy nightclub in the city center with a focus on electronic, house, and techno music.
Bambú: A nightclub in Málaga with an opulent Rococo design and an exotic touch, featuring local DJs on weekends.
Malafama: A cozy nightclub in the old town with a lively atmosphere, popular with both locals and tourists.
Bubbles Club: A trendy lounge bar in the city center known for its eclectic mix of reggaeton, pop, and global music.
Pastrami Club: A hidden, clandestine club near the city center inspired by 1920s speakeasies, accessed through a men’s restroom in a sandwich bar.
Costa del Sol
Most Popular Attractions
Western Costa del Sol:
Marbella Old Town (Casco Antiguo): A charming and beautiful old town with narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and the famous Plaza de los Naranjos (Orange Square).
Puerto Banús: A world-renowned luxury marina in Marbella, famous for its yachts, designer boutiques, and vibrant nightlife.
Benalmádena Pueblo: A traditional white village with narrow, winding streets and a tranquil, authentic atmosphere.
Castillo de Colomares (Benalmádena): A fairytale-like monument dedicated to the life and voyages of Christopher Columbus.
Mijas Pueblo: A picturesque white village in the mountains, known for its donkey taxis, panoramic views, and quaint streets.
Fuengirola Castle (Sohail Castle): A beautifully restored Moorish castle offering historical tours and a venue for concerts.
Selwo Aventura (Estepona): A large wildlife park with animals from different continents.
Estepona Old Town: Known as the “Garden of the Costa del Sol,” a charming town with flower-filled streets and plazas.
Eastern Costa del Sol (Axarquía):
Nerja Balcony of Europe: A famous lookout point offering stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Cueva del Tesoro (Rincón de la Victoria): One of the only three known marine caves in the world and the only one in Europe.
Cómpeta: A beautiful white village nestled in the Sierra de Almijara, known for its sweet wine and hiking trails.
La Herradura: A horseshoe-shaped bay famous for its beautiful beaches and diving opportunities.
Torrox Pueblo: A traditional white village with a strong German community, known for having “the best climate in Europe.”
Other Attractions:
Bioparc Fuengirola: An immersive zoo with a focus on conservation, recreating natural habitats.
Butterfly Park of Benalmádena: A large butterfly house with thousands of exotic butterflies flying freely.
Aqualand Torremolinos: A large water park with slides and attractions for all ages.
Crocodile Park (Torremolinos): A park dedicated to crocodiles, with a large variety of species.
Senda Litoral de Málaga: A coastal path network that will eventually stretch along the entire Costa del Sol.
Dolphin Watching: Trips available from various ports, including Benalmádena and Fuengirola.
Golf Courses: The Costa del Sol is also known as the “Costa del Golf” due to the high concentration of golf courses.
Activities & Experiences
Go Dolphin and Whale Watching from Estepona or Fuengirola: Take a boat trip into the Strait of Gibraltar for a chance to see dolphins and even whales in their natural habitat.
Explore the Caves of Nerja: Just east of Málaga, these massive caves contain impressive rock formations and even prehistoric cave paintings. The tour is a must-see.
Hike the Rio Chillar in Nerja: This popular summer activity involves walking through and along a river with small waterfalls and pools, ending in a beautiful canyon.
Discover the Old Town of Marbella: Beyond the glitz and glamour, Marbella has a charming old town with narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and the famous Plaza de los Naranjos.
Visit Mijas Pueblo: This picturesque whitewashed village, nestled in the mountains above Fuengirola, offers stunning coastal views and a glimpse into a more traditional way of life.
Experience a Water Park: The Costa del Sol is home to several large water parks, including Aqualand in Torremolinos and Aquamijas in Fuengirola, which are perfect for families.
Play Golf: The region is known as the “Costa del Golf” for a reason. With over 70 golf courses, it’s a prime destination for golfers of all skill levels.
Learn to Kitesurf or Windsurf: The area around Marbella and Estepona offers many opportunities for water sports, with schools and rental shops catering to beginners.
Go to a Beach Club: Experience the famous Costa del Sol lifestyle at one of the many glamorous beach clubs in Marbella or Puerto Banús, where you can relax, dine, and party by the sea.
Try Espetos in a Chiringuito: Head to a beachfront restaurant and order espetos, freshly grilled sardines skewered and cooked over an open fire. It’s a true taste of the coast.
Local Tips & Transport
Cercanías Train: The C1 train line is the backbone of public transport on the western Costa del Sol. It connects Málaga city center to the airport, Torremolinos, Benalmádena, and Fuengirola. It’s a fast, reliable, and affordable way to travel between these towns.
Car is Recommended: To fully explore the Costa del Sol and its many hidden gems, a car is the best option. It gives you the flexibility to visit the White Villages in the hills, drive to more remote beaches, and travel between towns at your own pace.
Buses: An extensive intercity bus network connects all the towns along the coast and to other cities in Andalusia. The main bus station in each town is a hub for travel.
“Costa del Golf”: The region is world-renowned for its golf courses, offering a wide range of options from resort courses to challenging championship layouts. Even if you don’t play, you’ll see a strong golf culture everywhere.
The “Pueblos Blancos” (White Villages): While on the Costa del Sol, be sure to drive inland and explore some of the stunning white villages. They offer a stark contrast to the bustling coast. Mijas Pueblo is the most famous, but others like Ojén and Casares are well worth a visit.
Chiringuito Culture: The beach bars (chiringuitos) are an essential part of the coastal experience. They range from simple shacks serving freshly grilled fish to upscale restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to have a leisurely lunch with your feet in the sand.
Seafood is Key: The Costa del Sol is known for its seafood. Try fritura malagueña (a plate of assorted fried fish), coquinas (small clams), and, of course, espetos at a beachfront restaurant.
Hidden Gems:
- The Old Town of Marbella: It’s a peaceful and picturesque escape from the coastal glamour. Wander the labyrinthine streets and discover charming boutiques and traditional tapas bars.
- Cueva del Gato: Located near Ronda, this beautiful natural cave with a stunning turquoise pool is a true hidden gem. It’s a bit of a hike, but the reward is worth it.
- El Chorrito: This small, rural village is a climbing mecca with easy access to some of the best climbing routes in Spain and is a great base for hiking the Caminito del Rey.
Top Restaurants
Los Marinos José [$60-$90] – An institution in Fuengirola, widely considered “the temple of seafood in the province of Málaga,” with over 30 years of experience serving incredibly fresh, top-quality fish and shellfish.
El Tintero [$20-$40] – Located in the El Palo neighborhood of Málaga, this is a legendary, no-frills beachfront restaurant where waiters auction off plates of fried fish, making for a unique and lively dining experience.
Chiringuito El Muro [$25-$45] – A classic, family-run chiringuito in Estepona with a relaxed, authentic vibe, known for its superb “espetos de sardinas” and freshly grilled fish.
Restaurante El Pescador [$30-$50] – A traditional eatery on the promenade in Estepona, known for its wide variety of fresh seafood, and a classic rice with “carabinero” dish.
El Palangre [$30-$50] – Situated in the port of Estepona, this is a family-run seafood restaurant with a reputation for serving some of the freshest fish and seafood, straight from the Estepona fish market.
Chiringuito La Milla [$40-$70] – A modern and chic chiringuito on Marbella’s Golden Mile, offering a high-quality menu of fresh seafood and modern Spanish cuisine.
Restaurante Antonio [$50-$80] – A classic and highly-regarded seafood restaurant in the port of Marbella, famous for its fresh fish, seafood, and a sophisticated atmosphere.
La Fontanilla [$40-$70] – A classic spot in Marbella’s Elviria area, located directly on the beach, and known for its high-quality seafood and a beautiful setting.
Restaurante Los Mellizos [$30-$50] – A very popular chain of seafood restaurants in various locations on the Costa del Sol, known for its extensive menu of fried fish and seafood.
Restaurante El Higuerón [$30-$50] – Perched in the hills above Fuengirola, this spot is a classic for its traditional Spanish cuisine, grilled meats, and stunning panoramic views of the coast.
Skina [$100-$150] – A two-Michelin-starred restaurant in Marbella’s old town, offering a truly exclusive dining experience with an innovative tasting menu focused on seasonal Andalusian ingredients.
Messina [$120-$160] – A Michelin-starred restaurant in Marbella that blends Mediterranean and Latin American flavors, with a focus on bold, creative dishes and an exquisite tasting menu.
KAVA [$40-$70] – A modern, creative bistro in Marbella with a unique menu that blends classic Spanish flavors with a playful, international twist.
Back [$50-$80] – A Michelin-starred restaurant in Marbella known for its creative and innovative take on local dishes and its excellent tasting menu.
BiBo Dani García [$50-$80] – A lively and more casual offering from the acclaimed chef Dani García, with locations in Marbella, known for its modern and playful take on traditional Spanish cuisine.
Nobu Marbella [$80-$120] – A world-renowned Japanese restaurant located at the Puente Romano Hotel, offering a unique blend of Japanese cuisine with Peruvian influences.
El Lago [$80-$120] – A Michelin-starred restaurant located at the Greenlife Golf course in Marbella, known for its beautiful lakeside setting and an innovative menu that celebrates local, sustainable products.
Nintai [$100-$150] – An exclusive and intimate Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant in Marbella, offering a unique and authentic Omakase experience.
Leña [$60-$90] – Another popular concept from chef Dani García, this “steak house” in Marbella focuses on high-quality grilled meats, with a creative and modern touch.
El Rincón de la Abuela [$25-$40] – A charming and authentic restaurant in the White Village of Mijas, with a lovely setting and a menu of traditional Andalusian cuisine.
Taberna La Niña del Pisto [$25-$40] – A great little restaurant in Marbella’s old town with a family atmosphere and an extensive menu of classic Spanish dishes.
Los Abanicos [$30-$50] – Located in the tiny white village of Benahavís, this restaurant is a local favorite, known for its traditional, hearty mountain cuisine and rustic charm.
Venta Los Montañeses [$20-$35] – A traditional “venta” in the Montes de Málaga Natural Park, famous for its rustic, hearty dishes and beautiful views.
Chiringuito La Plage Casanis [$40-$70] – A chic and modern beach club in Elviria, offering a refined dining experience with a focus on Mediterranean cuisine.
El Gato Lounge [$20-$35] – A popular seaside terrace and lounge in Torremolinos, known for its casual atmosphere, tapas, and beautiful views of the sea.
Restaurante Picador [$25-$40] – A restaurant in the beautiful village of Mijas, known for its “100% Andalusian soul” and traditional cuisine with a focus on shared dishes.
El Gamonal [$30-$50] – A restaurant in San Pedro de Alcántara with a beautiful garden, offering a mix of traditional and refined cuisine in a peaceful setting.
Top Cocktail Bars & Clubs
Rudi’s (Marbella Club): An elegant and sophisticated bar at the Marbella Club Hotel, a renowned location for enjoying vintage champagne and exquisite cocktails in a bohemian setting.
Breathe – Air Rooftop Bar & Signature Cocktail Terrace (Marbella): A stylish rooftop bar located in the heart of Marbella that combines nature and design, offering a unique ambiance and stunning views.
Cipriani Marbella: A globally renowned name located on the Golden Mile, bringing the legendary Bellini cocktail to the Costa del Sol. Known for its timeless glamour and designer interiors.
Astral Bar (Puerto Banús): A unique bar designed as a wooden galleon, located at the entrance of Puerto Banús. It’s famous for its show factor and artistic cocktails.
Sinatra Bar (Puerto Banús): An iconic spot directly on the marina in Puerto Banús, this bar is known for its lively scene and for being a place to see and be seen.
Speakeasy Jazz Club & Cocktails (Fuengirola): A hidden gem in Fuengirola with a Prohibition-era ambiance, offering live jazz and a wide selection of classic and creative cocktails.
Panda Cocktail Bar (Fuengirola): A trendy bar with a beautiful garden, offering a variety of highballs and classic cocktails in the center of Fuengirola.
Belvue Rooftop Bar (Marbella): Located on a rooftop in Marbella, this bar offers exclusive cocktails by a renowned bartender and breathtaking views over the sea and the city.
Blue Bar Marbella: An exclusive after-dinner clubbing experience hidden within a restaurant, with top DJs and live shows.
Nobu Lounge and Bar (Marbella): An elegant and sophisticated bar in Marbella’s Puente Romano resort, known for its inventive cocktails, live DJs, and an air of celebrity.
Gigi’s Beach Sotogrande: A relaxed beachside spot perfect for enjoying a drink with your feet in the sand and a wonderful view of the sea in the luxurious Sotogrande.
Cielo Skybar (Estepona): Located on the twelfth floor of a hotel in Estepona, this skybar offers a breathtaking view over the sea and city, ideal for a classic cocktail.
Starlite Occident: A unique open-air venue located in a quarry in Marbella, offering a mix of music, gastronomy, and cultural experiences. It’s known as a “boutique festival” that hosts concerts by world-renowned artists and transforms into a club after the shows.
Olivia Valere (Marbella): A lavish nightclub inspired by Moorish palaces, located in the hills of Marbella, featuring multiple dance floors and dining areas. It’s a premier spot for luxury nightlife.
Ocean Club Marbella (Puerto Banús): A renowned luxury beach club in Puerto Banús with an oversized saltwater pool, plush sunbeds, and iconic Champagne parties.
Nikki Beach (Marbella): Located on one of Marbella’s best beaches, this beach club is a hotspot for celebrities and is synonymous with luxury and sophistication, known for its legendary themed parties.
Pangea (Marbella): A nightclub in Puerto Banús with sweeping views of the port from its terrace lounge bar, providing a stunning backdrop for a night out.
Opium Beach Club Marbella: A lively beach club on the beachside of Marbella known for its state-of-the-art amenities and a vibrant atmosphere.
La Sala by the Sea (Puerto Banús): A popular beach club with a laid-back atmosphere near Puerto Banús, offering a mix of bistro and Thai cuisine along with cocktails.
Mirage Nightclub (Marbella): A club with an “insane” dance floor and a lively atmosphere, situated in the heart of Puerto Banús.
Boomerang (Torremolinos): Located in the center of Torremolinos, this club is known for great service, realistic prices, and a superb selection of drinks, with an international clientele.
Funky Buddha Marbella: A must-visit spot in Puerto Banús with live music performances and a lively nightlife experience.
Seven Puerto Banús: A club that offers a great party atmosphere and often has special offers for groups, located directly in the heart of Puerto Banús.