Marbella is much more than a glamorous beach town

Marbella may be known for its glamorous beaches and buzzing nightlife, but just a few steps away from the modern bustle lies a quieter world, one steeped in history and Andalusian charm: the Old Town. Wandering through its cobbled lanes feels like stepping into a living postcard, where every corner whispers stories of centuries past.
A Stroll Through Time
The first thing you notice is the whitewashed houses, their walls softened by the Mediterranean sun and adorned with cascades of bougainvillaea. Wrought-iron balconies overflow with potted geraniums, and the scent of jasmine drifts lazily through the air. The streets are narrow, winding, and endlessly intriguing, inviting you to slow down and simply wander.
The Heartbeat of the Town: Plaza de los Naranjos
At the centre lies Plaza de los Naranjos, a square framed by Renaissance-era buildings and shaded by fragrant orange trees. Here, life moves at a gentler pace. Locals sip their morning café con leche, tourists linger over chilled sangria, and the sound of clinking glasses blends with birdsong. It’s a place to sit, breathe, and let the atmosphere sink in.
Hidden Corners and Secret Plazas
Beyond the main square, the Old Town reveals its quieter treasures: tiny chapels, sun-dappled courtyards, and plazas where the only sound is the trickle of a fountain. In Plaza Santo Cristo, pastel-coloured houses surround a humble church, while Plaza de la Victoria offers shaded benches perfect for resting after a leisurely stroll.
A Feast for the Senses
Exploring Marbella’s Old Town is as much about taste as it is about sight. Stop at a family-run taverna for plates of jamón ibérico or freshly fried pescadito. Duck into a hidden café and try churros with thick, velvety chocolate. Or browse the boutiques tucked into historic buildings, where you’ll find artisanal ceramics, hand-stitched leather, and treasures that feel far removed from Marbella’s glossy designer stores.
A Timeless Escape
What makes Marbella’s Old Town so magical is its sense of timelessness. The Moorish walls, Roman traces, and centuries-old churches create a backdrop where past and present intertwine seamlessly. Here, glamour fades into the background, replaced by the simple beauty of tradition, community, and everyday Andalusian life.
So the next time you’re in Marbella, step away from the coast for an afternoon. Get lost in its labyrinth of streets, linger in its quiet plazas, and let the Old Town show you a side of the city that is soulful, authentic, and unforgettable.