Marbella Old Town
approx. 25 min
Behind Marbella's glamorous image lies a beautiful historic heart – the Casco Antiguo, a maze of whitewashed lanes, flowers and small squares perfect for a slow stroll.
Why visit Marbella Old Town?
Marbella's old town (Casco Antiguo) is one of the prettiest historic centres on the Costa del Sol. Its narrow streets follow the layout of the old Moorish town, and today they are lined with flower-covered balconies, boutiques, art galleries and tapas bars. It is compact, easy to explore on foot and full of atmosphere, both during the day and in the evening.
Top sights in Marbella Old Town
Plaza de los Naranjos. The Orange Square is the heart of the old town, laid out in the 15th century after the Christian conquest. It is surrounded by orange trees, restaurant terraces, the old town hall and the Casa del Corregidor with its stone façade.
Ermita de Santiago. On one side of the square stands the small Hermitage of Santiago, one of the oldest religious buildings in Marbella.
Church of the Incarnation. A short walk from the square, the Iglesia de la Encarnación has a striking stone portal and a richly decorated interior, set on a small square of its own.
The Moorish walls. Remains of the old castle and town walls can still be seen around the edge of the old town.
Barrio Alto. The upper part of the old town is quieter, with whitewashed houses, pots of geraniums and small corners perfect for photos.
Museums. The Museum of Contemporary Spanish Prints (Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo) is housed in a historic building in the old town.
Shopping. The lanes are full of small boutiques, ceramics shops, jewellers and gift shops.
Food and drink
The old town has some of Marbella's most charming restaurants and tapas bars, many with tables on small squares. It is a lovely place for lunch or a romantic dinner.
Getting to Marbella Old Town from Riviera del Sol
The drive takes around 25 minutes along the coast. There are public car parks on the edge of the old town and near the seafront; the historic centre itself is pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot.
Good to know
Combine the old town with a walk along Avenida del Mar to see the Dalí sculptures and the seafront.
Visit in the morning for quiet streets, or in the evening for atmosphere.
Book tours and tickets
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