Part 2 of 3
For our 2022 Spring Break adventure, we packed our bags and headed to Spain, kicking off an unforgettable journey that took us to three incredible cities: Malaga, Marbella, and Madrid. In this second post of the series, I’m diving into the beauty of Marbella.
Our journey through Spain continued by car with a sun-drenched visit to Marbella, where Mediterranean beauty meets modern luxury. Known for its glamorous harbor and vibrant streets, Marbella offers a wonderful blend of relaxation and cultural exploration. The drive to Marbella from Malaga was about an hour and features beautiful coastline views. The rental car and driving experience in Spain was excellent and we had no issues. There are two roads available between the two cities, one is a toll road and the other is a little slower but provides the opportunity to pass through smaller Spanish coastal towns. Both roads give beautiful scenic journeys.
Whether you’re strolling through the scenic streets or indulging in some of the region’s finest food, Marbella was an unforgettable stop on our Spanish adventure. Stay tuned for part 3, the final stop on our Spanish Spring Break extravaganza! You can find part 1 of this series here with photos and recommendations for Malaga, Spain.
Thinking about visiting Marbella yourself? Feel free to reach out for bookings, travel advice, or personalized recommendations. I’d love to help make your trip as magical as ours! Leave a comment or shoot me a message—let’s get planning!
Our journey through Spain continued by car with a sun-drenched visit to Marbella, where Mediterranean beauty meets modern luxury. Known for its glamorous harbor and vibrant streets, Marbella offers a wonderful blend of relaxation and cultural exploration. The drive to Marbella from Malaga was about an hour and features beautiful coastline views. The rental car and driving experience in Spain was excellent and we had no issues. There are two roads available between the two cities, one is a toll road and the other is a little slower but provides the opportunity to pass through smaller Spanish coastal towns. Both roads give beautiful scenic journeys.
Accommodation
In Marbella we were joined by a few other family members, so we rented an AirBnB. This property was gorgeous and furnished for families with thoughtful touches throughout, including a heated swimming pool and gated entry. We were able to spread out, do laundry, and enjoy breakfasts on the spacious wrap around veranda. The house we rented was about 10 minutes drive to the downtown area of Marbella and 15 minutes to the harbor. By far the best part of the house was the stunning views of Morocco on the African coast just across the strait of Gibraltar.
Strolling Along Marbella’s Scenic Paseo Maritimo
We began our first day with a peaceful walk along Paseo Maritimo, the picturesque beachfront promenade. With the sea breeze in our hair and views of sparkling waters stretching for miles, it was the perfect start to our time in Marbella. There are plenty of spots along the way to stop for a refreshing drink or take in the stunning scenery, making it a must-do for any visitor.Exploring the Heart of Marbella: Plaza de los Naranjos
No visit to Marbella would be complete without spending time in Plaza de los Naranjos. This lively square is filled with charming cafés and vibrant orange trees, creating a postcard-perfect setting for people-watching. We enjoyed a relaxing lunch here, soaking in the lively atmosphere, and taking photos against the many colorful backdrops of shops and cafes.
Art and Culture at Avenida del Mar and the Church of Our Lady of the Incarnation
A quick stroll from the plaza brought us to Avenida del Mar, home to stunning Dalí sculptures that seemed to blend surrealism with the city’s coastal charm. Afterward, we headed to the Church of Our Lady of the Incarnation, also known as the Cathedral of Marbella. The intricate details and peaceful atmosphere inside made it a lovely place to reflect and admire Marbella’s religious history.Puerto Banús: Marbella’s Glitzy Celebrity Spot
For a taste of luxury, we visited Puerto Banús, the famous yacht harbor and celebrity hotspot. With mega yachts lined up and designer stores galore, it was clear why this area attracts the rich and famous. Whether you’re a star-chaser or just looking to admire the boats, it’s a unique glimpse into Marbella’s glamorous side. We were definitely just enjoying watching the people and window shopping at the most exclusive collection of luxury shops I’ve ever encountered. The yachts were out of this world and all different shapes and sizes filled the harbor.Nature Break at Parque de la Represa and Plaza Delfin
For some relaxation, we wandered over to Parque de la Represa, an expansive green space perfect for letting the kids run off some energy or enjoying a quiet moment by the water. We also stopped by Plaza Delfin, a peaceful plaza tucked away from the hustle and bustle, offering a more laid-back side of Marbella.Marbella’s Culinary Delights
Of course, we were all for experiencing the culture through the food. Marbella certainly didn’t disappoint in the food department!- Parrilla Restaurante Bello Horizonte served up delicious grilled specialties that were perfect after a long day of sightseeing.
- Restaurante Santiago had us falling in love with authentic Spanish paella, a must-try for any visitor.
- Tempora Restaurante offered an incredible fusion of modern Mediterranean flavors, while El Cortijo took us back to classic Andalusian cuisine in the heart of the city.
- For a cozy and intimate meal, we loved the vibe at El Patio De Mariscal, where tapas and sangria are a must. Other top-notch tapas joints like Arco Tapas Bar, Bar El Estrecho, and Taberna Tierraranda ensured we never ran out of new flavors to try!
Whether you’re strolling through the scenic streets or indulging in some of the region’s finest food, Marbella was an unforgettable stop on our Spanish adventure. Stay tuned for part 3, the final stop on our Spanish Spring Break extravaganza! You can find part 1 of this series here with photos and recommendations for Malaga, Spain.
Thinking about visiting Marbella yourself? Feel free to reach out for bookings, travel advice, or personalized recommendations. I’d love to help make your trip as magical as ours! Leave a comment or shoot me a message—let’s get planning!
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