In Northern Europe it already smells like autumn. The leaves are changing colour and there’s a definite chill in the air. On the Costa del Sol, however, the summer continues and will last well into October. But autumn isn’t just about sunshine and this part of Spain has a busy cultural calendar too. So, if you’re planning a golf break in Marbella and fancy combining it with some great culture, read on to discover our top tips for the best things to do on the Costa del Sol this autumn.

Take in some fantasy

In its 20th edition, the Costa del Sol International Fantasy Film Week starts screening on 8 September. Taking place mostly in Estepona but with events in Marbella and Benahavis too, the week showcases in the latest in fantasy and horror films as well as exhibitions and guest appearances. The most-awaited star is Ian Bettie, aka Sir Meryn Trant in Games of Thrones, who’ll be collecting the prize for best Fantasy TV Series 2019. Read the full programme here and enjoy the fantasy from 8 to 14 September.

Combine fantasy film with a fantastic Stay & Play deal at our Boutique Hotel in Marbella. Check out our last-minute deals here. 

Admire some stunning art

As usual, there’s a great round-up of art on the Costa del Sol this autumn. The Picasso Museum opens its biggest exhibition so far this year in late September with Calder-Picasso. The collection compares the way the two unique artists used zero space in abstract art.

Also in Malaga, the Russian Museum welcomes a new temporary exhibition. Nikolai Roerich, the master of Russian symbolism, takes centre stage with 70 works on show from early October until February 2020.

Did you know Rio Real organises tailor-made day trips to Malaga to discover the essence of Picasso in his birthplace? Ask at reception for more details when you arrive at our hotel. 

Cheer them on

Give the athletes running the Marbella half-marathon a big cheer as they make their way round. Or if you´re feeling very energetic, join the annual race yourself. Taking place on 5 October, this year´s 21km race runs around the resort on a circuit that participants need to go run twice. The race starts at 7.30pm in the centre.

Enjoy an autumn fair

Fuengirola provides another option for great things to do on the Costa del Sol this autumn. The resort celebrates its annual Fair between 6 and 12 October in honour of the patron saint, the Virgin of the Rosary. Expect lots of colour, music, dance, funfair rides and celebrations all day long in the resort.

Make a day of it – get a round of golf in the morning and visit Fuengirola Fair in the evening. Book yours now. 

See Banderas in A Chorus Line

One of the best things to do on the Costa del Sol this autumn is to watch Antonio Banderas star in A Chorus Line in his new theatre in the Soho district of Malaga. The winner of the award for best actor at Cannes this year directs the well-known Broadway musical as well as taking the lead role as Zack. Tickets go on sale soon and will be available here. 

Jazz it up

Jazz is something of an institution in Malaga where the city celebrates the 33rd edition of its annual jazz festival this autumn. Between 5 and 11 November, big-name jazz artists will play at the Cervantes Theatre while concerts and recitals at different venues take place throughout the city. See the full programme here. 

As we said, it might be the autumn, but things are still very bright on the Costa del Sol. Don’t miss out and book your golfing break in Marbella now. And remember, the sooner you book, the better the prices. See you there!