Recommendations for Guests Without a Car:
For those who won’t rent a car, Marbella Old Town, Puerto Banús, and the Golden Mile are the best options due to walkability and access to public transport or taxis. Nueva Andalucía and San Pedro are less convenient without a car but manageable with taxis or organized shuttles.
For Guests With Kids:
Best Areas: Nueva Andalucía, San Pedro, or Elviria for quieter environments and spacious accommodations.
Look for family-friendly resorts with pools, play areas, and easy beach access.
For a Social Experience:
Best Areas: Puerto Banús or Marbella Old Town.
Proximity to restaurants, bars, and lively atmospheres make these areas great for mingling.
Marbella Old Town (Casco Antiguo)
Vibe:
Quaint, picturesque, cultural.
Why Stay Here:
Ideal for guests who want to experience the authentic charm of Marbella with cobbled streets, boutique shopping, and excellent dining options.
Suitability:
Great for couples or solo travellers who enjoy socialising and exploring.
Walking-friendly, with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops nearby.
Not ideal for families with young kids seeking quiet or outdoor spaces.
Price Range:
Moderate to luxury boutique hotels and Airbnbs.
Wedding venue distance: 16 minutes by car
Puerto Banús (Near the Marina)
Vibe:
Glamorous, bustling, nightlife-focused.
Why Stay Here:
Perfect for younger or more social guests who enjoy luxury shopping, trendy beach clubs, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
Suitability:
Best for singles or groups of friends looking for a lively atmosphere.
Easy access to beaches and restaurants but can be noisy at night.
Not ideal for families or guests seeking peace and quiet.
Price Range:
Mid-range to high-end, with options ranging from apartments to five-star hotels.
Wedding venue distance: 20 minutes by car
Nueva Andalucía
Vibe:
Upscale, residential, golf-oriented.
Why Stay Here:
A quieter, more relaxed alternative to Puerto Banús, with plenty of luxury villas and family-friendly accommodations.
Suitability:
Excellent for families with kids due to spacious properties and quieter surroundings.
Guests who enjoy golfing or a more residential feel will love it. Slightly less walking-friendly; having a car is helpful but not mandatory.
Price Range:
Luxury to ultra-luxury, with some mid-range options for apartments.
Wedding venue distance: 17 minutes by car
San Pedro de Alcántara (South of the Highway)
Vibe:
Local, family-friendly, laid-back.
Why Stay Here:
A charming town with a more authentic Spanish vibe, quieter beaches, and family-friendly parks and promenades.
Suitability:
Ideal for families with kids or older guests looking for a relaxed stay.
Quiet at night, with easy access to playgrounds and local restaurants.
Not as central or touristy, so better suited for those prioritizing calm.
Price Range:
Budget-friendly to mid-range, with more value-for-money accommodations.
Wedding venue distance: 30 minutes by car
Elviria
Vibe:
Quiet, beach-focused, upscale.
Why Stay Here:
A peaceful area east of Marbella, slightly further away, with beautiful beaches and family-friendly resorts.
Suitability:
Ideal for families and guests seeking relaxation.
Price Range:
Mid-range to luxury, with a mix of resorts and private villas.
Wedding venue distance: 20 minutes by car
Golden Mile (Between Marbella and Puerto Banús)
Vibe:
Exclusive, luxurious, beachside.
Why Stay Here:
Offers the best of both worlds—proximity to the beach, high-end dining, and walkable distance to both Marbella and Puerto Banús.
Suitability:
Ideal for those who enjoy a luxurious lifestyle but don’t want the hustle of Puerto Banús.
Great for couples or families seeking a blend of relaxation and convenience.
Price Range:
Luxury, with high-end hotels and villas.
Wedding venue distance: 15 minutes by car