Marbella

The pretty town of Marbella is part of the Spanish Riviera. Come here to enjoy a luxurious beach vacation on the popular Mediterranean coast and take in the many historic sights. While only about 140,000 people call Marbella home, the nearly 1 million visitors that come here each year make it a bustling city. Laze on the beach, or go shopping or sightseeing in this charming hot spot on the Costa del Sol.If you need a break from swimming and sunbathing, stroll along the Paseo Maritimo boardwalk alongside the beach. Or, sit by the Alameda Park fountain, which is surrounded by a square that has benches covered with mosaics depicting local history. The area’s diverse background is also reflected in ancient landmarks, with Roman baths and bridges, stylish Moorish architecture, and early Christian churches. Walk through the Casco Historico (Old Town) to get a glimpse of traditional Spain and admire the 16th-century Town Hall. At the Plaza de los Naranjos, visit the Tourist Information office to see which festivals are on during your stay. See works by Picasso, born in nearby Málaga, at the Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo or admire Dalí’s sculptures along Avenida del Mar. For a typical Spanish treat, order tapas while watching Spanish dancing on Alameda Square. Celebrities and the jet set have been attracted to Marbella since the 1970s. Stars such as Antonio Banderas, Sean Connery and Rod Stewart have called the city home, and today you can mingle with the super-rich on the Golden Mile.Marbella is located in Andalucia, an autonomous region in the south of Spain. The climate is mild, with hotter days from June to August. The Málaga airport is a 40-minute drive away. If you don’t have your own transport, use buses or the licensed, metered taxis to get around. If you rent a car, note that parking is expensive.Marbella is the jewel of the Costa del Sol, offering beaches combined with luxury and historic charm.