Marbella: A Charming Andalusian Treasure
Unlike the bustling beachfront, the Old Town feels intimate and tranquil, perfect for wandering, discovering quaint boutiques, and enjoying traditional Spanish cuisine in charming plazas.
Public Transport:
🚍 Bus Lines & Routes
➡️Marbella has 14 urban bus lines connecting Puerto Banús, San Pedro, La Cañada Shopping Centre, and more. Frequent services run throughout the day, with some night buses available.
💳 Tickets & Prices
➡️Single ticket: €1.20 (buy directly from the driver).
➡️Bonobús card: €1.22 (reduces fare to €0.83 per trip).
➡️Available at kiosks and the main bus station.
📍 Tips & Info
➡️Buses are affordable, reliable, and accessible.
❗️Google Maps is not updated, so use the Moovit app for precise bus times.❗️
Best way to explore Marbella without a car! 🚏
Top Plazas & Highlights of Marbella Old Town
1. Plaza de los Naranjos: The Heart of Marbella
Plaza de los Naranjos (Orange Square) is the most famous and picturesque square in Marbella, located at the heart of the Old Town. Dating back to the 15th century, it was created after the Christian reconquest and remains a hub of social and cultural life. The square is lined with orange trees, historic buildings, and traditional Andalusian restaurants, making it the perfect place to enjoy a coffee or tapas under the sun.
Key landmarks around the plaza:
➡️Casa del Corregidor (16th century) – A stunning building with a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Mudejar elements.
➡️Ermita de Santiago – The oldest church in Marbella, a simple whitewashed chapel with deep historical significance.
➡️Marbella Town Hall (Ayuntamiento, 16th century) – A beautiful Renaissance-style building with an ornate façade and historical plaques.
2. Plaza de la Iglesia: A Spiritual and Architectural Landmark
Just a short walk from Plaza de los Naranjos, Plaza de la Iglesia is home to Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación, one of Marbella’s most important churches. Originally built as a mosque during the Moorish period, it was converted into a Catholic church in the 16th century.
The plaza itself is an elegant, open space often used for cultural events and festivals. The Baroque-style façade of the church, combined with the surrounding palm trees and traditional Andalusian houses, creates a beautiful setting.
If you want to escape the more touristy areas, Plaza Altamirano is a quiet and atmospheric square with a true old-world charm. It is lined with stone buildings covered in ivy, and its centrepiece is a small fountain surrounded by lush plants. The plaza is also home to several art galleries and traditional Andalusian restaurants, perfect for a relaxed evening.
4. Plaza Puente Ronda: A Secret Courtyard
Other Must-See Spots in the Old Town
➡️Murallas del Castillo (Marbella Castle Walls): The remains of the 9th-century Moorish fortress, offering a glimpse into Marbella’s Islamic past.
➡️Calle Ancha: A wide, charming street lined with historic mansions and balconies draped in bougainvillaea.
➡️Calle Carmen & Calle Peral: Narrow, flower-filled streets that feel like a scene from a Spanish postcard.
Why Visit Marbella’s Old Town?
Marbella’s Casco Antiguo is a charming blend of history, culture, and Andalusian tradition. Whether you’re looking to admire historical landmarks, enjoy tapas in a sunlit plaza, or simply get lost in its enchanting streets, the Old Town is an essential stop on any visit to Marbella. It’s the perfect place to experience the authentic soul of this glamorous coastal city.
What Else to Visit Besides the Old Town?
Marbella has plenty to offer beyond its charming Casco Antiguo. Since we visited in February, the weather was pleasant, around 16°C, but the beach bars weren’t open, so we opted for a scenic walk along the beach to Marbella Port.
If you’re looking for more things to do, consider (list+map):
Only 26 minutes from Marbella:
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