Marbella Old Town: A historic jewel full of charm
Marbella, internationally renowned for its luxurious beaches and sophisticated lifestyle, harbors at its heart a historical gem that transports visitors back in time. Marbella’s Old Town, also known as the “Casco Antiguo “, is a captivating place that combines the richness of its Andalusian heritage with the vibrant modern life that surrounds it.
A little history
Located in the center of the city, Marbella’s Old Town is a living example of traditional Andalusian architecture and offers an unrivalled charm to those who venture through its narrow cobbled streets. Its whitewashed houses, flower-filled balconies and picturesque squares create a unique atmosphere that invites you to lose yourself in its labyrinthine streets.
The roots of the Old Town go back to Roman times, when Marbella was known as Salduba. The Romans left their mark on the town with the construction of defensive walls and a Roman villa near today’s Plaza de los Naranjos. However, much of the current appearance of the old town is due to the Moorish occupation during the Middle Ages.
Today, the Old Town of Marbella is a charming mixture of architectural styles, from Moorish and Renaissance architecture to more avant-garde elements.
Leisure and gastronomic offer
One of the highlights of the Old Town is a visit to the famous Plaza de los Naranjos. Surrounded by historic buildings and restaurants with open-air terraces, this square is the social and cultural heart of the area. It’s here that visitors can enjoy a break in one of the traditional cafés while admiring the beauty of the Orange Tree Fountain, an ancient treasure dating back to the 15th century.
On the other hand, the Alcazaba Fortress is one of the historical elements that can still be seen in Marbella. This structure exhibits various architectural elements that include Roman influences. Like all fortifications, it served a defensive function until the Christian Reconquest, when it became a prominent coastal observation post.
In terms of dining, Marbella’s Old Town offers a wide variety of flavors, from traditional Andalusian cuisine to international dishes. Seafood lovers will find fresh delicacies in the restaurants located near the port, while those looking for a more refined dining experience can enjoy Mediterranean cuisine in the renowned restaurants that line the streets of the old town.
A perfect place to eat is Zozoi Marbella which offers different international culinary options for every palate, specially designed to satisfy visitors, allowing you to enjoy a wide variety of cuisines ranging from Italian to Thai and Asian. While for a drink, Bodega San Bernabé offers a typical Andalusian drink, the vermouth.
Another not-to-be-missed option is a visit to the two Michelin starred restaurant, Skina. With its focus on high quality ingredients and innovative culinary techniques, Skina Marbella has become a local and international gastronomic reference awarded with two Michelin stars. The real star of Skina Marbella is its menu of exquisite dishes by chef Marcos Granda that combines modern techniques with Andalusian culinary tradition.
Discover unique corners of Marbella with the Cordovan tavern, La Niña del Pisto, an authentic and cosy place to enjoy the best tapas of traditional Mediterranean cuisine. A true gastronomic treasure trove with a wide range of Andalusian tapas at affordable prices.
In addition to its architectural beauty and gastronomic offerings, Marbella’s Old Town is also home to a wealth of boutique shops, art galleries and jewellery stores. Here, visitors can indulge in local crafts, purchase unique souvenirs or discover contemporary art pieces in the local galleries.
Last but not least, another tourist attraction in the center of Marbella is the Museum of Engraving which houses periodical collections of engravings and graphic arts. An artistic treasure that also offers educational and cultural activities, such as printmaking workshops and guided tours, providing an interactive and enriching experience for all audiences.
Parking Areas
Parking in Marbella is challenging, especially during the summer season when there are more visitors than ever. We recommend the following parking options:
Avenida del Mar car park
This car park is located behind La Alameda Park, just a few minutes from both the beach and the historic center. This makes it an ideal option for those who decide to explore this part of Marbella. Access is via Calle Macintosh and Calle El Fuerte.
El Mercado Car Park
This public car park is located in the Municipal Market and its pedestrian access is on Calle Quevedo, in the Plaza del Mercado and inside the market.
Plaza del Triunfo Car Park
The car park located in the Plaza del Triunfo is the most ideal alternative for those who wish to explore the heart of Marbella, as from this point you can walk along the coastal promenade and also admire the famous Alameda and Avenida del Mar
