Marbella has become one of Europe’s most popular travel destinations, both for Swedes and international tourists. And of course this is easy to understand. Here it is guaranteed warm and sunny, the beaches are lined up and the shopping is fantastic. In addition, the sunny coast has some of Southern Europe’s most charming villages and resorts around Marbella and the nature is wonderful to see up close, both on the hiking trails and through the car window.
Play golf
Marbella and the rest of the Costa del Sol have some of the most famous golf courses in the world. Loyal golfers make a pilgrimage here and it can be quite difficult to find a place, which means that people even have to look further afield. The golf courses are located in 35 different places around the city and it is not always completely cheap to play here. However, the nature is phenomenal and the courses are world class so you should really take the opportunity to go a few holes when you are still here. Some of the most sought after courses are San Roque Old, Sotogrande and La Reserva but you can also get around the Santa Clara Golf Club which is closer to Marbella.
Hike in the mountains
The nature in and around Marbella is divine, to put it bluntly and it would be a shame to just spend time on the beach during a stay here. There are many nice hiking trails here so do not forget to bring real boots. Forget the sangria for a while and switch to a sporty mood. Start early in the morning before the sun has caught up and do not forget water and a lunch bag in your backpack. Then it’s up in the mountains that counts. Marbella has 6 hiking trails that are popular and many of them start behind the mall “La Cañada”. There are also many hiking trails around the Costa del Sol, including several at the Mijas Mountains.
Shop until you freeze
Marbella is a city for jet-set people and it is also noticeable in the shops nearby. The beautiful marble street in the city center is surrounded by fine and luxurious shops with everything between heaven and earth. Swimwear and shoes are especially big in Marbella, but you can also find fantastic clothes. The upscale Il Corte Ingles department store is close to Puerto Banus Marina and the main avenue Av. Ricardo Soriano offers all Spanish brands such as Zara, Mango, Massimo Dutti etc.
Eat tapas
The Sun Coast is known for its good tapas which are a Spanish buffet-like meal, consisting of all sorts of goodies. Whether you are on a beach or right in the center, there are tapas restaurants a bit here and there. This meal is good both if you are hungry or just feel a little craving in your stomach. You can order what you want and rinse it down with a sangria in the evening.
Watch flamenco
Surely you can not come to Marbella and go home without having seen at least a display of the traditional flamenco? The dance has different origins but is especially popular along the southern coasts of Spain and in Andalusia. Don’t forget to go to Tablao Flamenco Ana Maria in the old town of Marbella and watch live shows and eat a good chunk of food at the same time. Flamenco is part of the Spanish culture and an experience you will not forget.