With its sun-soaked beaches, hot weather, incredible natural landscapes, exciting attractions and mouth-watering food, the Costa del Sol ticks all the boxes on your holiday checklist. Marbella is the second largest city on this golden stretch of coastline and is one of the most popular destinations for a holiday. The city is made up of a number of different areas and has something for everyone. Whether your idea of a dream vacation includes water sports, wine tasting or retail therapy, take a look at Plum Guide's expert guide on where to stay in Marbella.

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Those looking to soak up the history and culture should look to stay in Marbella Old Town. One of the most scenic historic districts on the Costa del Sol, this part of the city is a unique blend of tradition and all the trappings of modern life. The best way to explore, of course, is to go about on foot, losing yourself in the winding cobblestone alleyways. Lined with Renaissance-era whitewashed houses and bright bursts of colourful blooms flowing down from balconies, you’ll find it difficult to put down your camera here. For postcard-worthy photos, head to Plaza de Iglesia (home to the Church of Our Lady of the Incarnation with its stunning paintings and statues) or Plaza de los Naranjos with its bright orange trees and cafes spilling out into the square. This is a peaceful place to catch your breath and breathe in the citrus-scented air.

As you amble along leisurely, you’ll pass colourful shops and quaint cafes – be sure to browse the various boutiques and sit back with a cold drink while you people-watch. Taberna La Niña del Pisto comes highly recommended, a buzzing eatery with traditional tapas and a robust wine list. While there are no beaches in the Old Town, its old-school charm and laid-back atmosphere is a compromise we’re willing to take. Besides, you’re only a short walk away from Marbella’s sunny coastline. Being conveniently located in the centre of Marbella means you’re well connected to the city’s other attractions, as well as day trips further out.

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If you’re the type of traveller who enjoys being in the heart of the action, then you’re going to want to set up camp in downtown Marbella. Take a walk down Avenida del Mar, a wide shopping street wedged between Alameda Park and the beach. This is the best place to engage in some serious retail therapy, where you can spend your hard-earned cash on everything from high street names to eclectic boutiques. Along the scenic walkway are sculptures by artists like Salvador Dali and Eduardo Soriano – have a cool drink under the shade of a pergola and relax while you watch the palm trees sway in the breeze.

Downtown Marbella is closer to the waterfront, and you can spend long days topping up your tan on a selection of urban beaches like La Bajadilla Beach, Venus Beach and La Fontanilla Beach. When you get tired of sunbathing (it’s a tough life), pop by one of the rentals and ride the waves by jet ski, boat or paddle board. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to the many chiringuitos or beachside snack bars that serve tapas and ice-cold drinks.

Speaking of food, downtown Marbella is excellent for dining. You’ll find whatever type of restaurant you’re looking for, whether that’s seafood restaurants serving up the catch of the day, Michelin-star restaurants or casual, family-run eateries. We particularly like Primeria Selection, a wine bar serving up an impressive collection of wines (including Spanish favourites) as well as cured delights, exquisite preserves, and fresh oysters from Normandy and Brittany.

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Wondering where to stay in Marbella for a luxury experience? Take a short drive west of Marbella’s downtown area to Puerto Banús, which has a reputation as the Costa del Sol’s playground for the rich and famous. In fact, Puerto Banús was originally developed as a luxury marina and shopping complex in 1970 by José Banús, a local property developer. Today, you’ll find everything you could possibly want from a luxury break – casinos, golf courses, shopping and high-end dining.

The Costa del Sol is a wonderful place, and there’s no better way to explore this corner of Spain than from the water. Head down to the marina to spend the day on a luxury yacht or, if you want to amp up the thrill factor, jump on the jet skis or try your hand at flyboarding and kitesurfing. Whichever water-based activity you go for, save some energy for Puerto Banús' nightlife. From live music bars like La Sala to the luxurious Casino Marbella and the Benabola Sky Lounge for enviable views. Who knows, you may even rub shoulders with footballers or film stars.

When you’re not busy teeing off or riding the waves (or just need to nurse that hangover), you’ll most likely be down on Puerto Banús' beaches. Yes, that’s right – there’s more than one to choose from, with each offering something different. Live it up at swanky beach clubs on Playa Nueva Andalucia, let the kids run around on Playa Puerto Banús (also known as Playa de Levante), or discover the remains of a Roman villa at Playa del Rio Verde.

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When it comes to where to stay in Marbella with the family, the town of San Pedro de Alcántara is a wonderful option. Just a short drive from the glitz and glamour of Marbella, and an even closer drive to the scenic Serrania de Ronda mountain range, a stay in this town offers the perfect mix of action and relaxation.

Outdoor enthusiasts can rent bikes or strap on their hiking shoes to take on the many trails around the mountains. Whether it’s an easy or challenging trek, you’ll find beautiful routes leading through gorges and onto cliff tops for breathtaking views of the surrounding coast and countryside.

If you prefer to admire the scenery in a less strenuous way (say with a glass of wine in hand), why not swing by the many wineries in the area? The Serranía de Ronda is one of the leading wine-producing areas in the region, with many vineyards still maintaining their traditional harvesting methods. We can recommend Descalzos Viejos, housed in a former 16th-century trinitarian convent, and the gorgeous La Sangre.

Those keen to hit the golf course will be pleased to know that San Pedro is close to some of Costa del Sol’s top-rated golf courses and country clubs like Real Club de Golf Guadalmina, San Pedro Golf Club and Magna Golf Marbella. Once you’ve worked up a sweat, head down to the town’s beaches of San Pedro, Cortijo Blanco, Linda Vista and Guadalmina, renowned for their clear, calm waters.

If you want a break from a beach day, there is plenty of fascinating history to discover in San Pedro de Alcantara, including the Las Bóvedas Roman Baths and Watchtower, the Paleo-Christian Basilica of Vega de Mar and the buildings of the San Pedro Alcántara agricultural colony. The latter dates back to the 19th century when the town was founded as an agricultural and industrial colony, a huge contrast to the vibrant tourist town it is today.

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Just a twenty-five-minute drive down the coast from Marbella is the picturesque town of Estepona. While not technically in Marbella, we couldn’t resist adding it to our list. Its highlight is the Old Town, typically Andalusian with its charming cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings and lively squares. The town centre is traffic-free, making strolling around even more enjoyable.

Keen shoppers will want to browse the stores along Calle Terraza and Calle Real, stopping for a quick drink at one of the town’s many alfresco cafes. There are plenty of historic buildings to see along the way, including the 15th-century Castillo de San Luis fortress and the clock tower on Plaza del Reloj. This is where locals gather on New Year’s Eve for the countdown, while during the summer months, a variety of concerts are held.

Speaking of plazas, there are many dotted throughout the town – the Plaza Las Flores is one of our favourite little corners, with the scent of citrus trees floating through the air. If you’ve spent all your energy (and money) shopping, take it easy with a wander around El Orquidario de Estepona, an idyllic botanical garden with an impressive orchid collection.

Alternatively, head down to Estepona’s many beaches for a lazy afternoon on the sand. There’s a beach for every kind of person, from laid-back coves like Playa del Cristo to amenity-packed sands like Playa del Rada. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to get out on the water, there are plenty of companies offering watersport rentals such as kayaks and paddleboards, as well as family-friendly boat tours – you’ll mostly find them around the marina.

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