There are iconic destinations in Europe for the summer. You know the drill. A week in St. Tropez, because you need some yacht time in your life. You’ve never skipped a year in Ibiza and it’s not because of the foam parties. And Mykonos is always there for good measure to get your time in the Greek Isles. But last year, some of your usual hot spots were missing the international jet set crew. You know the beautiful people who define “people watching”. Well, there was a reason for that, and it’s because those in the know were in Marbella. And all signs point to that trend this summer too.

Marbella In a Nutshell

Restaurants

Restaurante El Lago
The PlayWright Bar and Restaurant
Bibo Dani García
Sea Grill
Nomad Restaurant
Casanis Bistrot

Hotels

Puente Romano Beach Resort
Amàre Beach Hotel
Marbella Club Hotel

Sights and Activities

Iglesia de la Encarnación
Playa Nagüeles
Marbella Castle
Museum of Contemporary Spanish Engravings
Museo Ralli
Playa de Alicate
Tapas and Wine Tour

Spotlights

Marbella has no shortage of incredible restaurants, hotels, and experiences. These ones stand out from the rest for their especially excellent food, service, and atmosphere.

Restaurant Spotlights

Sea Grill

If you didn’t enjoy some fresh seafood by the beach, did you even go to Marbella? Sea Grill is the perfect place to sip some wine, listen to the waves, and try a new seafood dish (with a side of caviar, of course.) The interior is charming and colorful, with plenty of natural light. The restaurant has something for everyone and even includes a vegan menu.

Casanis Bistrot

If aesthetics are important to you, you’ll love Casanis Bistrot. Located in Marbella’s Old Town, the restaurant is as romantic as it is beautiful. Chef Fabián Cangas has spent his career finding and creating delicious new flavors all over the world. He serves Mediterranean dishes that are also inspired by French and Belgian cuisine.

Hotel Spotlights

Puente Romano Beach Resort

Puente Romano sets the bar high. It has won multiple awards for being an exceptional golf resort, Spain’s best spa resort, and the finest lifestyle hotel in Europe. The hotel’s many restaurants use fresh, seasonal produce from a local garden. Puente Romano includes a boxing studio, an outdoor gym, and a spa offering every treatment you can imagine.

Marbella Club Hotel

Marbella Club has a carefree, relaxed atmosphere where you can watch the waves roll in. When planning your stay, you’ll get to choose between a suite, bungalow, or extravagant grand villa. The hotel’s main restaurant, El Patio, is loved by locals as well as travelers. Looking to relax and unwind in a unique way? Try a dip in the wellness center’s seawater pool.

Activities Spotlights

Playa Nagüeles

It’s time to break out the sunscreen. Playa Nagüeles is one of the cleanest and most pristine beaches in the city. It is also one of the most popular among travelers hoping to soak up the sun. Its beauty and tranquility make it a must-see beach for anyone wanting to experience the best of Marbella.

Museum of Contemporary Spanish Engravings

If the beach isn’t your thing, try visiting Marbella’s Museum of Contemporary Spanish Engravings, or Museo del Grabado Contemporáneo Español. It is the city’s most popular museum and includes several permanent exhibitions showcasing the works of famous Spanish artists. Additionally, the building itself was built in 1568 and can be considered a work of art.

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