Spain| Marbella is one of the most famous fashionable summer resorts. It is located on the Costa del Sol, in the south of Spain. The first association on it are flawless beaches, clear sea, and always-blue sky. But then also luxury yachts, and expensive hotels and casinos, and shops of world-famous designers. But Marbella offers far more than this. The visitors get to walk through the narrow cobbled streets of the Old Town. And to smell the flowers of a bougainvillea in the charming squares. To eat the spectacular local food, and buy homemade olive oil and handmade chocolates.
Relaxing at the square
To soak the atmosphere of Marbella, visit Plaza de Los Naranjos. You will get there by walking through the narrow streets of the Old Town. Have a glass of wine at any cafe, bar, or restaurant while enjoying the odor of orange trees. It is equally charming during the day and in the evening.
Historical buildings
Several of Marbella’s buildings stand out for their importance and beauty. Be sure to check out the Townhall, the Old mayor’s house, and the church of Hermit de Santiago. These three buildings are from the period of the 15th and 16th centuries. Not far from there is the baroque church of Our Lady of the Incarnation. It is decorated with a stone entrance in the Rococo style. Inside is a statue of Saint Barnabas, the patron saint of Marbella. Nearby are the remains of the impressive Moorish fortress of Alcazaba and its walls.
A green refuge from the daily hustle and bustle
Walk over marble paths right to the elegant 18th-century Virgen del Rocio fountain. Get lost between tropical trees while breathing in the refreshing scent of pine. Almeda Park is a true oasis of peace. Sit on one of the benches decorated with Andalusian tiles and take a break from the city rush.
Admire the surrealism
Cross the street near Alameda Park and head down to Avenida del Mar.
This avenue is rich in a beautiful environment of palm trees and flower arrangements. Plus, you will have the opportunity to see ten bronze statues of Salvador Dali. These masterpieces have interesting themes. It varies from the mythological creatures to the depiction of Don Quixote. If you want to see more of Dalí’s works, visit the Museo del Grabado Espanyol Contemporaneo. The museum also exhibits works by Goya, Picasso, and Miro.
The Golden Mile
Avenida del Mar opens onto the Paseo Maritimo promenade. By following it, you can get from Marbella to Puerto Banus (the famous harbor for luxury yachts and boats) on foot. It is eight kilometers long, and you will need up to an hour and a half. Or even longer if you stop at one of the bars on the beach to refresh yourself. You can always return by bus or in a more expensive but more pleasant version by catamaran. Do not miss to observe the spectacular coast and mountains of the Sierra Blanca. The interesting fact is that Marbella has 320 days of sunlight during the year. And 30 km of beaches in total.
Andalusian food
“It would be a sad waste of opportunity to eat badly.” You cannot truly meet the country till you meet its kitchen. If you want to have breakfast like a local, have bread, olive oil, and tomato. For an enjoyable lunch, eat at some restaurant on the beach. Start with the soup gazpacho. Then, you could get a fried fish. Or even better, paella. It could be with pork, seafood, or entirely vegetarian – it is up to you. Tapas tasting is mandatory, too, in one of the many tapas bars. I recommend goat cheese with marmalade. For something sweet, visit one of the city churreries. Churros is a traditional pastry fried in deep oil, seasoned with cinnamon, and served with hot chocolate sauce for dipping.
Fall in love
The best thing about Marbella is yet its people. Andalusians are kind and welcoming. Plus, you can meet immigrants from all over the world and hear their stories. Regardless of your age, you are for sure able to find yourself a company. You could join yoga at the beach, try water sports, or go hiking. If this is not your thing, you could explore Marbella’s nightlife. The choice comes between beach clubs and indoors. The odds are there will be some festivals and fairs during your stay since there are so many of them. In addition, there are many language exchange meetings. At those events, locals teach you Spanish while you teach them English. Who knows, you might even fall in love with the local. But beware, you may not want to leave then.
