Fancy a quick break? Somewhere to get back into the travel groove without travelling too far or too long? A place with great weather and amazing things to do even if you’re just there for the weekend? Welcome to 48 hours in Marbella, our guide to what to do when you’re visiting the resort on a short break.

Day 1

On the first day of your 48 hours in Marbella, we suggest combining an invigorating walk with a stroll round Marbella Old Town in the morning. Then in the afternoon, get in a round of golf and take in some serious retail therapy before an evening cocktail under the stars.

Start your day on the sands

With a sunny climate all year round, you can go to the beach in Marbella at any time. Start your short break in the resort with an early morning walk along the beach. For the longest sands, head to the beaches on the east of Marbella where you can walk for miles along the shore.

Top tip – follow your walk with a relaxing buffet breakfast, preferably while admiring some amazing views. Those from the Restaurant at Rio Real Boutique Hotel take in the Mediterranean and the mountains.How’s that for an inspiring start to the day?

Explore the Old Town

Next up on our 48 hours in Marbella is a trip to the Old Town where you’ll find quaint alleyways and squares flanked by traditional Andalusian architecture. Don’t miss the small shops and boutiques while you’re there.

Top tip – for lunch, pop into one of the tapas bars and try some local delicacies.

Afternoon golf

You couldn’t possibly spend a short break in Marbella and not play a round – this is after all home to some of the best golf courses on the Costa del Sol. For the best green fees in Marbella, try Rio Real Golf – their dynamic pricing system ensures more golf for less. See for yourself and book a game now. 

Top tip – look out for green fees that include a buggy. Always an advantage especially when you’re on a busy 48 hours in Marbella!

Retail therapy

Next up, head for Puerto Banús, one of the most stylish marinas in southern Spain and celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Shop till you drop in the designer boutiques and don’t forget to admire the yachts moored nearby.

Top tip – walk to the end of the marina for stunning views of the Sierra Blanca mountains and the Mediterranean.

Finish with a little something

End your first day in Marbella with a drink at one of the night clubs or beach bars in the resort. Balmy temperatures all year round mean you can sit outside under the stars, a perfect end to the day.

Day 2

For your next stretch of 48 hours in Marbella, we recommend some exercise first thing, followed by a leisurely stroll along the seafront and lunch on the beach. Spend the afternoon relaxing with some art.

Get in some serious exercise

If golf is your thing then get in an early bird round before breakfast – the first tee time of the day often has the best green fees. Or return to the beach for another energetic walk along the sands.

Top tip – breakfast on chocolate and churros, the traditional Spanish breakfast, in the lovely Plaza de los Naranjos in Marbella centre.

Discover the seafront promenade

The promenade in Marbella stretches for miles along the seafront and offers stunning Mediterranean and mountain views. You can walk as far as you like – if you reach Puerto Banús and don’t fancy the walk back, get the boat instead.

Top tip – have lunch at one of the beach restaurants. Try local fried fish especially grilled sardines known as an espeto and seafood. Or order a paella for two.

Take in some art

Next up on our 48 hours in Marbella, it’s time for some culture. Admire Spanish engravings (including some by Picasso and Miró) at the Museo del Grabado in Marbella Old Town and walk down the Avenida del Mar past the display of Dalí sculptures.

Top tip – themuseums in nearby Malaga have world-class art works and include the renowned Picasso Museum. Take a private tour from Rio Real Hotel to see them for yourself.

Where to stay for 48 hours in Marbella

To ensure golf on the doorstep, choose Rio Real Golf Resort with its Boutique Hotel and emblematic 18-hole course. Treat yourself to one of the Stay & Play packages allowing you to enjoy golf and Marbella. Book yours now.