Distance & Directions
Marbella is conveniently located just 20-25 minutes west of Villa Bonito Sol along the A-7 coastal highway. The drive is straightforward and scenic, following the Mediterranean coastline through Cabopino and Elviria. During peak summer months (July-August), allow an extra 5-10 minutes for traffic, especially during evening hours. The route passes several beautiful beaches and viewpoints, making the journey itself part of your Costa del Sol experience. For those preferring not to drive, taxis are readily available (approximately €30-35), and local buses run regularly from nearby La Cala de Mijas.
Top things to do in Marbella
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Explore Marbella Old Town (Casco Antiguo)Wander through narrow cobblestone streets, discover hidden plazas, and enjoy tapas at Orange Square (Plaza de los Naranjos)
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Visit Puerto Banús MarinaJust 5 minutes from Marbella centre, see luxury yachts, designer boutiques, and celebrity hotspots
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Walk the Golden MileStroll the prestigious beachfront promenade connecting Marbella to Puerto Banús, lined with beach clubs and sculptures
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Relax at Marbella's beachesChoose from 27km of coastline including family-friendly Playa de la Fontanilla or exclusive Nikki Beach
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Discover Alameda ParkEnjoy botanical gardens, ceramic benches, and fountains in this peaceful city-centre oasis
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Take the cable car to Sierra BlancaExperience panoramic views of the coast and on clear days, see Africa across the strait
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Play championship golfTee off at one of 15+ nearby courses including Rio Real, Marbella Club, and Los Naranjos
Ready to explore these amazing attractions?
Reserve Your Villa BaseWhere to eat & drink in Marbella
Old Town Tapas
Experience authentic Spanish cuisine in the atmospheric streets around Plaza de los Naranjos. Traditional bars serve local specialties like gazpacho, pescaíto frito, and Spanish tortilla.
Beachfront Chiringuitos
Enjoy fresh seafood with your feet in the sand. These beach restaurants serve grilled sardines (espetos), paella, and catch of the day with stunning sea views.
Fine Dining
Marbella boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants including Dani García's establishments and Skina. Perfect for special occasions during your stay.
International Cuisine
From Italian trattorias to Japanese sushi bars, Lebanese mezze to Argentine steakhouses, Marbella's diverse dining scene caters to all tastes.
Family Restaurants
Many restaurants offer children's menus, play areas, and early dining options. The beachfront venues are particularly family-friendly with space for children to play.
Enjoy the best dining experiences from your villa
Get Local RecommendationsBeaches, nature & viewpoints near Marbella
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Playa de la FontanillaCentral Marbella beach with full facilities, beach bars, and water sports. Perfect for families with lifeguards and calm waters.
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Nikki BeachExclusive beach club experience with luxury daybeds, DJ sessions, and champagne service. Adults-oriented, reservation recommended.
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Cabopino BeachNatural beach backed by pine forests and sand dunes, offering a more rustic experience just 10 minutes from the villa.
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Sierra Blanca MountainsHiking trails with varying difficulty levels, offering spectacular views of the coast and inland Andalusia.
Your perfect beach holiday awaits
Check AvailabilityPractical tips for visiting Marbella
Parking: Use underground car parks in the centre (€2-3/hour). The Avenida del Mar parking is closest to both beach and Old Town. Street parking is limited and often requires a blue zone ticket.
Best visiting times: Mornings before 11am or evenings after 5pm to avoid heat and crowds. Thursday mornings feature a local market near the Old Town.
Family tips: The beaches have play areas and calm waters. Many restaurants offer kids' menus and high chairs. The Alameda Park has a playground.
Shopping: La Cañada shopping centre for high-street brands, Old Town for local crafts, Puerto Banús for luxury designer goods.
Seasonal notes: July-August are busiest with higher prices. May-June and September-October offer perfect weather with fewer crowds. Many beach clubs close November-March.
Frequently Asked Questions about staying near Marbella
How far is Marbella from Villa Bonito Sol?
Marbella is approximately 20-25 minutes drive from Villa Bonito Sol in Sitio de Calahonda. The journey follows the coastal A-7 highway westward, offering scenic Mediterranean views along the way.
What's the best time to visit Marbella Old Town?
The best time to visit Marbella Old Town is early morning (before 11am) or late afternoon (after 5pm) to avoid crowds and heat. Evening visits are particularly magical when the narrow streets are lit up and restaurants create a vibrant atmosphere.
Are there family-friendly activities in Marbella?
Yes, Marbella offers excellent family activities including safe beaches with play areas, Alameda Park with its botanical gardens, the cable car to Sierra Blanca, and numerous beachfront restaurants with children's menus and play zones.
Where can I park in Marbella?
Marbella has several public parking options including underground parking at Avenida del Mar (near the beach), Parque de la Alameda, and the Constitution Park. Street parking is limited in the Old Town, so underground car parks are recommended.
What are the must-see attractions in Marbella?
Must-see attractions include the historic Old Town (Casco Antiguo) with Orange Square, the Golden Mile beachfront, Puerto Banús marina, Alameda Park, and the contemporary sculpture collection along Avenida del Mar.
Ready for Your Costa del Sol Adventure?
Book your stay at Villa Bonito Sol and explore the best of the Costa del Sol