Estepona
approx. 45 min
Known as the "garden of the Costa del Sol", Estepona charms visitors with flower-filled streets, colourful murals, a relaxed seafront and an authentic Andalusian old town.
Why visit Estepona?
Estepona has reinvented itself over the past decade and is now one of the most charming towns on the coast. The historic centre has been beautifully restored, with hundreds of flower pots decorating the white houses and dozens of giant murals painted on apartment buildings. It feels more relaxed and local than Marbella, while still offering great restaurants, a long promenade and beautiful beaches.
Top sights in Estepona
The flower streets of the old town. Every street in the historic centre seems to have its own colour of flower pots. Wander without a map through the lanes around Plaza de las Flores, the lively central square with a fountain and café terraces.
The murals route. Estepona is famous for its Ruta de Murales – a collection of huge artworks painted on the sides of buildings across town. Following the route is a fun way to explore.
The Orchidarium. A spectacular glass-domed botanical garden in the centre, home to a large collection of orchids and tropical plants and a high indoor waterfall.
Castillo de San Luis and the old walls. Remains of the 16th-century castle and the town walls can still be seen in the old town.
The seafront promenade. The paseo marítimo runs along La Rada beach, with sculptures, gardens and beach bars. The beaches here are wide and family-friendly.
The port. Estepona's marina and fishing port has restaurants and bars, and a Sunday market is held here.
Food and drink
Estepona has a strong food scene, from traditional tapas bars in the old town to seafood restaurants by the port and the beach. Try fried fish, grilled prawns or espetos at a chiringuito, and look for small family-run bars around the old town for local tapas.
Nearby
Just outside Estepona, the Selwo Aventura safari park is a popular day out for families. The Sierra Bermeja mountains behind the town also offer scenic drives and hiking.
Getting to Estepona from Riviera del Sol
Estepona is around 45 minutes by car, heading west along the coast past Marbella. Public car parks are available near the old town and the seafront. Buses also connect Estepona with Marbella and Fuengirola.
Good to know
Spring is the best time to see the flowers at their most colourful.
Combine the old town, the Orchidarium and lunch by the sea for a perfect half-day trip.
The town is a good stop on the way to Manilva, Sotogrande or Gibraltar.
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