The Golden Mile ain’t cheap.
But that doesn’t mean the best hotels in Marbella are too exclusive for your everyday traveler.
Some luxury resorts are favorite overnight stops for the rich and famous, but you’d also be surprised at just how many 4- and 5-star hotels in Marbella are built for your budget. We’re talking about beach access without going broke. Resort amenities without the resort fees.
Simple pillows in simple places that are surrounded by the Sierra Blanca foothills and sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Scope out some of Marbella’s best hotels and you’ll find exactly the Spanish seaside getaway you’re dreaming of.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Alexe Marcel. Image Location: Marbella, Spain.
Where to find the best hotels in Marbella
From The Golden Mile to deep into the countryside, the best hotels in Marbella, Spain have a suite just your size (and budget).
What is the main train station in Marbella?
There are many ways to get to the Costa del Sol, but getting to Marbella by train isn’t one of them. Málaga María Zambrano Train Station is the closest major station, which is not exactly next door to Marbella. Thankfully, we’ve got your backup plan right here: the bus to Marbella.
Where is the best area in Marbella?
First-time visitors will say that the best areas in Marbella to stay at are in the city center and Puerto Banus. The old town area is more on the budget-friendly side of the sand and is a great place to get the lay of the land. Puerto Banus is much more lavish in the way of hotels, but the vibe is still pretty down-to-earth despite the rich and famous overnight guests.
Image Credit: Getty Images, David Soanes Photography. Image Location: Marbella, Spain.
What’s the best area to stay in Marbella for nightlife?
The Golden Mile is the best area to stay in Marbella for nightlife. This strip is the area between Puerto Banus and Piruli Tower, which includes Elviria. Even after a day spent baking in the sun, the reverb of Nikki Beach’s nightclubs will keep you rocking long after the sun sets.
What are the best beach hotels in Marbella?
Ask any celeb you see at the Marbella Club Hotel if it’s one of the best beach hotels in Marbella, then realize that it’s obviously a rhetorical question. Marbella Club Hotel is a popular landing spot for the rich and famous. You’ll feel just as swanky at Hotel Don Pepe Gran Meliá and Gran Hotel Guadalpin Banus.
Image Credit and Location: Hotel Don Pepe Gran Meliá
What are the best resorts in Marbella?
Though not on the beachfront, lavish digs like Hotel Villa Padierna Palace and Hotel Puente Romano deliver unforgettable stays. Three golf courses, an extensive spa, and pet-friendly rooms surround Hotel Villa Padierna Palace, while Hotel Puente Romano sets you up with a golf and tennis club, nearly two-dozen restaurants and bars, and luxe curated experiences that are the only reasons you’ll want to leave the property.
Hotel Don Pepe Gran Meliá
Best for luxury
The sea is yours to savor at Hotel Don Pepe Gran Meliá. Book a RedLevel room and get access to a private lounge, private reception area, and other exclusive VIP amenities. Rent an 100% electric Audi Q8 e-tron for a drive around the coast, find a temple of wellness in the spa, or sail on a yacht.
Image Credit and Location: Coral Beach Aparthotel, Marbella, Spain
Coral Beach Aparthotel
Best for a short stay
Coral Beach Aparthotel doesn’t look to fill your short stay with a fuss. Hit the beach only a few footsteps away or ride into town with a fast cab ride. Or don’t. Use the full kitchen in your luxury apartment. Or don’t. Spend all of your time on the furnished private terrace. Or don’t—whatever you want to do or not do, you won’t waste a moment getting it done.
Bluebelle by Pillow
Best for budget travelers
A ten-minute walk from Playa Casablanca and a private bathroom in every room will make you double check that Bluebelle by Pillow is actually a hostel. Flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi complete the bare-bones amenities of this Golden Mile budget-friendly sleep shack.
Marriott’s Playa Andaluza
Best for families with kids
There’s so much for the kids to do at Marriott’s Playa Andaluza that they’ll hardly hit the sand. A kid’s club, mini golf, table tennis, and loads of other family-friendly activities are theirs to enjoy with zero resort fees while you sneak off to the on-site spa.
Image Credit and Location: Amanhavis Hotel, Marbella, Spain
Amanhavis Hotel
Best for non-beachy folk
Who would go all the way to Marbella and not visit the beach? You, that’s who, and Amanhavis Hotel knows why. Andalusian vibes fill this hotel in the Benahavis village, only 5km from the beach but feeling worlds away when you hike into the countryside.
To the beach
Get to Marbella by bus from Málaga. Download the Trainline app and get your bus tickets to Marbella’s best hotels today.
Header Image Credit and Location: Coral Beach Aparthotel, Marbella, Spain