Ways to enjoy and things to do in Marbella Old Town

Marbella is a treasure on the Costa del Sol and has gained great fame for its luxury, beaches and summer parties. However, have you ever wondered what lies beyond this tourist image? We welcome you to Marbella's best kept secret: its old town. This historic corner, among the cobbled streets and whitewashed buildings of the province of Malaga, is a paradise. Here, the history of the town comes alive, the monuments tell their own stories and the Plaza de los Naranjos is kept alive with the energy of its people. Pay attention to this guide where we show you the best things to do in Marbella Old Town.

What is the historical significance of Marbella Old Town?

Marbella's fascinating history dates back to the 7th century BC, with Roman remains as jewels in the old town, including 3 Ionic capitals embedded in the walls of the Moorish castle.

In the 10th century, under Islamic rule, the Muslims left their mark with lighthouses, a citadel and defensive walls. Some time later, during the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, Marbella was erected as a regional capital, keeping one of its best treasures: the Plaza de los Naranjos, one of the most popular spots in the old town. 

On the other hand, Marbella has a past close to iron ore. During the 19th century, deposits of this mineral were discovered and created great wealth. This city even forged 75% of the country's iron. However, the industrial decline led to a return to agriculture and fishing. 

During the twentieth century, Marbella began to be discovered as an ideal place for relaxation and the first hotels began to settle in an unparalleled natural setting. Moreover, the first plans and guides with lists of things to see in Marbella Old Town appeared. 

In the 1970s and 1980s, Marbella established itself as the epicenter of the jet set, with Prince Fahd erecting his own White House-style palace. During the 1970s, Puerto Banús held its stellar inauguration, attracting celebrities such as Hugh Hefner and Roman Polanski. 

As you can see, it’s a city that has had a very varied past, which makes it have a special charm. Today, without a doubt, it is one of the most sought after destinations in the world, thanks to its contrast between the old and the luxury of Marbella beaches.

Top activities you can enjoy in Marbella Old Town

When immersing yourself in a trip it is very important to have a planned itinerary and that is why we show you the best things to see in Marbella Old Town. Get ready because this city keeps many secrets that will leave you with your mouth open. 

Enjoy your first steps inside the old town

Marbella would not be the same without its old town. When you take the first steps, you will feel as if you have entered the past. Let yourself be enveloped by the history that its alleys whisper, while the maritime charm and the Arab influence transport you to a distant era. Marbella always invites you to explore its roots, to feel the crunch of the cobblestones under your feet and to get lost in its narrow streets full of secrets. That is why it is one of the most popular destinations today. 

Immerse yourself in the Orange Square

The first thing you have to do when you enter the old town is to go to the Orange Square. Dating back to 1485, this square is the heart of the city and exudes an incredible energy. Without a doubt, as soon as you step onto the square, you will feel like you are in a space full of history and vitality. The outdoor tables, shaded by orange trees, invite you to enjoy tapas and drinks while the citrus scent and Andalusian architecture create a dreamlike setting. 

Visit the chapel of San Juan de Dios

The chapel of San Juan de Dios in Marbella, erected in the 16th century, is an architectural treasure that captivates with its simplicity and hypnotic art. Located in the heart of the old town, its stone façade, framed by a majestic arch, displays the coat of arms of the city and the pomegranate, emblem of the ancient Kingdom of Granada. 

Upon entering a fascinating interior is revealed, where a Mozarabic coffered ceiling and frescoes, rare in Castile, merge style with grace. This religious jewel is a visual and sensory journey, a living testimony to the historical essence of Marbella that you cannot miss. 

Go to the Marbella Town Hall

Visiting the town hall of Marbella is one of the best things to do in Marbella Old Town. It has been built as a witness of time, erected in 1568. Its facade displays a sundial and commemorative stone inscriptions that tell the history, dating back to the reconquest of Marbella in June 1485. 

On the left, the imposing old Governor's house, dating from 1552, preserves its original stone façade. In the square, a charming fountain from 1504, erected by the first mayor after the Christian conquest, adds a touch of authenticity to the atmosphere. Undoubtedly, the area fuses the traditional and the modern, from whitewashed buildings with stores and restaurants to family houses with classic patios, inherited from generation to generation. 

Delve into the ruins of the Marbella castle

Embark on a journey through the vestiges of the mysterious castle of Marbella. Although it does not stand in its full splendor, it still stirs the imagination with its fragments of walls and structures. 

Forged in the era of Abd al-Rahman III as a strategic bastion against enemies such as Ibn Hafsun, this castle witnessed the history of the Kingdom of Granada. Renovated throughout the ages, its walls whisper stories of yesteryear. As a recommendation, if you are a history lover, one of the essential things to see in Marbella Old Town is this magnificent castle. 

Travel back in time in the walls of Marbella Castle

Imagine walking within the walls of the castle of Marbella, witnessing the Moorish splendor of the eleventh century. These ruins, built with materials from ancient Roman structures, will transport you to an era where every stone tells a story. 

It has three imposing gates (Puerta de Ronda, Puerta de Málaga and Puerta del Mar) that reveal more than 1000 years of history. More than mere ruins, these stones tell the story of a city that evolved from its protected Moorish medina. The towers that line the walls whisper tales of defense and resistance, adding a touch of mystery to the Marbella coastline. 

Stroll along Carmen Street

Carmen Street is one of the most popular and that is why strolling there is one of the best things to do in Marbella Old Town. It has the ability to seduce all visitors with its unique charm. What can you find in this Marbella street? Pots overflowing with carnations adding color to the walls of the white and gold buildings, creating a magical contrast. 

We recommend you to prepare your camera because this place is full of Andalusian essence, making it a magnet for photography lovers. Of course, it is best to go in low season to take snapshots without too many crowds. 

If you want to make your trip in the summer, then we recommend that you go in the afternoon, when the sun goes down and the city is immersed in a quiet beach nap. This is the only time of the day when the street is less busy and you can discover it in peace and quiet. 

One of the things to see in Marbella Old Town: the Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo (Museum of Contemporary Spanish Engraving)

Immerse yourself in contemporary Spanish art at the Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo de Marbella, a treasure trove founded in 1992 by passionate artist and collector Juan Antonio Toledo and art historian Carmen de Toledo. 

It is located in a majestic building of the sixteenth century that was home to the Dukes of Osuna, in the historic center of Marbella. The museum houses more than 4,000 works of the most prominent Spanish artists of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. In addition, it offers visitors a library with more than 10,000 books and a research center where they devote their efforts to explore contemporary Spanish art. Discover this fascinating corner that offers educational programs, exciting workshops and a unique window into Spain's art scene. 

If you want to plan your visit to this well of wisdom, you should know that they are open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. However, on Sundays, the museum closes its doors at 2 p.m. 

Marbella Municipal Market

Let your senses awaken in Marbella's municipal market. The mix of fresh aromas, delicious dishes and artisanal products creates a culinary festival that invites all visitors to explore. 

This bustling market, with energetic vendors and displays, is the beating heart of Spain's gastronomic richness. It is the place where flavors become unforgettable memories. If you are passionate about gastronomy, we recommend that you dedicate some time to stroll through this market and let yourself be carried away by the aromas of the stalls. We are sure that you will leave the market with something under your arm!

Go shopping: one of the things to do in Marbella Old Town

The old town of Marbella is not only a place full of architectural and spiritual beauty, but it is also a perfect place to dive into the stores. The stores in the old town have an impressive aesthetic and are very varied, so you can not only buy clothes, but also olive oil or other local delicacies. 

To fully enjoy this cultural and gastronomic experience without worries, we recommend that you book your place in some of the best hotels in Marbella. Remember that it is a place full of visitors throughout the year and especially in summer. 

Delicias Urban Gourmet Shop

The fascinating gourmet world of Delicias Urban Gourmet Shop in Marbella is full of luxury and exquisiteness. From superb wines to dreamy chocolates and traditional treats, this culinary paradise has something for everyone, kids and adults alike! Be captivated by the authenticity of Malaga-born SAVIS craft beer, and explore elite products such as ArtMuria honey from the Pyrenees or Ekhi Gold chocolates from master chocolatier Juan Mari Iriarte. 

D'Oliva

At D'Oliva you will immerse yourself in the world of Spanish olive oil, selecting from among the 80 best oils and discovering tapenades, salts, wines and even a line of natural cosmetics. D'Oliva's passion extends from the farmers to its dedicated team, eager to guide you through this olive growing experience. 

Blanc Du Nil

Blanc Du Nil is a jewel present in Marbella that wraps you in linen and cotton garments of the highest quality. Even the iconic Michelle Obama visited this elegant store in 2010 during her stroll through the old town of Marbella. 

Cayetana Baby

In Cayetana Baby you can discover exceptional children's fashion. You can find everything you need, from newborn to 12 years old, with an unwavering commitment to quality and exclusivity. These stores not only offer products, but unique experiences so you can go home with joy. 

There are endless things to do in Marbella Old Town. With its cobblestone streets and historic buildings, it emerges as the cultural icon of the city, demonstrating a wonderful history and heritage. From the Plaza de los Naranjos to the chapel of San Juan de Dios, every corner tells a fascinating story. This enclave has evolved to merge its ancient roots with contemporary elegance, becoming a living testimony of Marbella's evolution over the centuries.