Marbella Old Town.

Marbella is a lovely Spanish town with an affluent air, lots of charm, and a steady year round population. There is a well-developed and very pretty seaside promenade lined with bars and restaurants which is a must for a stroll. There is a marina, which is a great place for eating, drinking and partying, as well as a “fishing port” which is famous for its row of traditional fisherman’s cottages specialising in fried fish.

The roads between the sea and the main shopping street (Ricardo Soriano) have lots of residential options, from marble clad developments with highly desirable apartments and penthouses, to more traditional apartment blocks, as well as some great restaurants and bars. The sea and the shopping area is linked by the famous Avenida del Mar, lined with Dali statues, leading up to a pretty marble paved park with a fountain, shaded by trees and perfumed by flowers.

Ricardo Soriano is a fairly standard high street with shops, supermarkets, banks, cafes and residential blocks, but tucked behind it is Marbella’s hidden treasure – the Old Town. This is a maze of winding streets, whitewashed houses, squares and chapels with charm a plenty. It has been sensitively developed with independent shops, cafes and restaurants to discover and is a joy to wander around, particularly on a warm summer evening.

It’s time to change your mind if you thought Marbella was only about beaches, vacationing, luxurious homes, and indulgence, the charming Old Town of Marbella is also a network of winding alleyways and small plazas that lies just beyond the busy major street.

Marbella, like other proud Spanish towns, used to be without modern amenities but had a wealth of culture, history, as well as tradition and the classical section of the town, an Andalusian maze of alleys, streets, and plazas filled with fountains and the sweet fragrance of orange blossom lay behind the untidy fisherman’s cottages, now transformed into beachside hotels and apartments.

Marbella Charming Centre.

Marbella is a town one wants to explore, a location to be enjoyed and lingered over. Numerous tourists pass through the Old Town which oozes with charm, dotted with beautiful parks, cafés, fountains and narrow cobbled streets. The famous ‘Orange Square’ has always been a landmark. It stands in the very heart of the Old Town and is the centre point of a maze of fashionable shops and bistros. Along the cosmopolitan ‘Sun Coast’ there are theatres and cinemas as well as numerous sports and social clubs catering to nearly every nationality. Culture is well catered for in the form of classical plays, concerts and ballets, frequently held in an amphitheatre surrounded by lush tropical gardens in the ‘Parque de la Constitución’. The area has two magnificent casinos, superb entertainment complexes and shopping centres.

The center of Marbella is a beautiful place to live if you like to combine vibrant urban life with a mix of cosmopolitan city and traditional village. It has services, well-kept semi-urban beaches, a beautiful promenade, ports, parks, schools, many shops, and restaurants. And, of course, it has an impressive Old Town where you can get lost among alleys and squares with Andalusian flavor.

Behind the Old Town are more peaceful residential areas where you will find schools, post offices, health centres, supermarkets etc. Just off the motorway is the main shopping centre for the area with over 150 shops, a cinema, restaurants and a hypermarket.
It’s great for families and boasts a wonderful restaurant scene with cuisines from all over the world, not to mention several Michelin starred restaurants!

Marbella’s town attracts homebuyers.

Walking through the delightful old town of Marbella towards the glistening beachfront, you’re likely to encounter many languages and accents worldwide. This lively coastal town is home to diverse cultures for numerous compelling reasons… Marbella offers more than just magnificent beaches and abundant sunshine. It’s a place where you can be anyone you want to be.

An increasing number of foreign homebuyers are now discovering the allure of purchasing properties in Marbella’s downtown area, a location they previously only enjoyed visiting but are now more inclined to invest in. The options range from the enchanting, mostly pedestrianized historic centre to the bustling area between the primary Ricardo Soriano Avenue and the coastline. Whichever you choose, you’ll be immersed in the vibrant ambience of a town setting and conveniently located near various amenities such as shops, eateries, coffee shops, museums, parks, and picturesque beaches, all within walking distance.

The district “Marbella Centro” is the urban core of a world-famous paradise. It has an approximate length of four kilometers. Also, here the municipality’s day-to-day development is with greater intensity.

Marbella’s Beautiful Old Town.

Marbella is renowned as one of Europe’s top resort towns, along with the French Riviera and Ibiza. Although the current visitors may not have the same celebrity status as Elizabeth Taylor or Grace Kelly, it remains popular among aristocrats and high-net-worth individuals.

Many visitors come to Marbella to enjoy the beaches by day and the nightlife and bars along the renowned marina of nearby Puerto Banús. However, just as many returns repeatedly to stroll through the charming streets of Marbella’s Old Town, both day and night.

The Old Town is encompassed by the ancient city walls and has remained virtually unchanged in shape and layout since the 16th century. The Plaza de los Naranjos, commonly known as Orange Square, serves as its centerpiece. In the evening, visitors can savor the fragrance of oranges mingling with the warm night air while enjoying an outdoor dinner enticed by the aroma of authentic Spanish cuisine. Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the square’s three most prominent structures: the Town Hall, the Mayor’s House, and the Chapel of Santiago, which showcase Gothic, Renaissance, and Mudéjar styles from just after Spain’s reconquest in the 15th century.

The locality is renowned for its delightful boutiques, and several of Marbella’s most exceptional eateries are concealed within the labyrinthine alleys. If you crave a distinctive experience that cannot be found elsewhere, head to El Patio de los Perfumes, a restaurant located within a two-century-old dwelling, promising a memorable evening. Meanwhile, La Polaca, situated on the northern periphery of the Old Town, provides a warm atmosphere and scrumptious tapas, ideal for mingling with the Marbellís.

During her visit, Michelle Obama, the First Lady of the United States, relished a comprehensive exploration of Marbella’s Old Town. While encountering someone of her stature in Marbella may not be a daily occurrence, the Old Town remains the resort town’s prime allure, exuding a historical allure and grace that augments its luxurious modern ambiance.

Where is Marbella Centre?

Of the 115 square kilometers of the city, “Marbella Centro” is the most active area of the territory. Delimiting where the center begins, and ends is not easy because the urban area of Marbella has been extending recently. Therefore, there are new services, shops, and properties. Still, we could say that the Marbella center begins in the prominent arch of Marbella, right at the city’s entrance, arriving from the highway, and ends at the Pirulí tower.

The center runs along an extreme stretch of national road 340. The adjoining regions of Marbella Centro would be: on the one hand Gran Marbella and, on the other, Marbella East. As the crow flies, the center of Marbella is just 13 minutes by car and 40 minutes walking. So it makes this city very convenient and comfortable to get around.

Why live in Marbella Centre?

Marbella Centro is the urban core of this world-renowned paradise. It has all the city’s virtues, such as the pleasant climate caused by the mountain’s proximity or the neighbors’ kindness. In addition, it houses all the services you may need and all very close to each other. So the center provides a feeling of more significant movement, joy, and vitality compared to other municipality districts.

The center of Marbella is the core of everyday life for residents and visitors. Also, it has the highest population density, and central administrative procedures occur here. The celebration of main festivities (Christmas, Carnival, Fair, Holy Week), and sports races or major charity events happen here. So, the center is the place in Marbella where you can have more tapas in the sun on the terraces, and the restaurants have more local flavor. Of course, in the center is where the principal historic origins of the city of Marbella are; fortunately, they are still visible and visitable.

In brief, the Centro district of Marbella is always safe and pleasant, a hotbed of people living together in unity. It has, of course, the sophisticated air of Marbella. Citizens from all over the world pass through its streets. Of course, among them are celebrities of all kinds who know how to enjoy its beautiful corners.

Marbella Centro is a place to live if you want to combine active urban life with a mix of an international city and a traditional village.

Historical charm in a modern city.

Even with the rise of tourism that began in the latter half of the 20th century, Marbella’s traditional core remained untouched and the town’s evolution into a trendy resort destination with traditional stores, apartments, and hotels did not affect the old town’s essence. Located behind Avenida Ricardo Soriano, the old town serves as a charming reminder of the city’s centuries-long heritage, even if it can be easily overlooked.

The jewel of Marbella’s center is its Old Town. Today, it is one of the city’s most photographed places. Thanks to its careful maintenance, you still enjoy visiting a typical Andalusian village when walking through its cobbled streets. One of the most beautiful areas of the center of Marbella is the old castle of Marbella.

A multitude of compact whitewashed homes, proudly stands shoulder to shoulder, surrounded by a historic wall that served as a protective measure and also nurtures distinguished homes and lovely churches. One can determine a town’s history by observing such areas, and Marbella is no exception, boasting a surprisingly lengthy and rich history, having been home to Phoenicians, Romans, and Moors before taking on the role of a strategic vantage point on the southern coast of Spain.

The historic center is on the site of an old medina: A Moorish city with narrow streets that provide shade and freshness. Therefore, Marbella has archaeological remains that date back to history and countless people who lived there. Especially the Romans stand out, whose passage remains traces in places like the Roman Bridge. But the Muslims in the Middle Ages built the central axis where the city is today. They made a fortified castle in the tenth century. The town expanded outside the boundaries of its walls. The current design is also the result of the contribution of the Catholic Monarchs and their effort to build churches, Castilian-style squares, and stately homes.

The beautiful “Plaza de los Naranjos” stands out within the architectural ensemble of the Old Town. This lovely enclave has had many names since its construction in 1485. But it got its name after the square planted orange trees replacing palm trees. It was a wise decision because of the greenery and aroma of orange blossoms that they bring to the environment. Today the square is full of large restaurants and cafes, such as the emblematic Casa del Corregidor, or the last to open in one of its corners, Lateral Naranjo. Also, the square has a must-see, the Churerría Ramón, the oldest in the city.

Visit Marbella Old Town.

If you’re looking for a charming and romantic setting in Marbella, then the Old Town is the perfect destination. With its whitewashed buildings, narrow streets, and beautiful flowers, Marbella Old Town provides a picturesque atmosphere.

Stroll around the town and explore the local shops, cafes, and restaurants. The Old Town is filled with quaint cafes, unique boutiques, and lively bars, making it the perfect destination for people who enjoy dining, shopping, and socialising. One of the best ways to experience the Old Town is by taking a leisurely walk around the narrow streets and enjoying the sounds, smells and local sights. Whether you’re browsing the local shops, admiring the beautiful flowers, or sipping a coffee at a quaint cafe, you’re sure to be enchanted by the charming atmosphere of the Old Town.

Explore the delightful streets of Marbella’s Old Town, where remnants of the Roman, Arabic, and Christian periods have been meticulously preserved. Some key attractions include the ruins of the Arabic Castle, the Church of Our Lady of the Incarnation, and Orange Square. Take a stroll along Avenida del Mar, which features a series of fountains, gardens, pergolas, and ten magnificent sculptures by Salvador Dalí.

The Old Town is also home to several historic buildings, including Marbella beatiful church, that provide a fascinating insight into Marbella’s rich history and are a must-see for couples interested in architecture and history.

Have you ever considered living in Marbella Center?

Marbella town is often overlooked by those looking to buy property in the area, except for the Golden Mile, which connects Marbella and Puerto Banús. However, the town has much to offer, including shops, restaurants, cafés, a beautiful beachside promenade, leafy squares, and an atmospheric old town. While it may not be the first place that comes to mind for property buyers, locals, well-informed Spanish buyers from places like Madrid, and foreigners familiar with the area find Marbella town to be one of the most beautiful parts of Marbella due to its wide variety of lifestyle options.

Discover an exciting lifestyle option.

Marbella’s central area is a relatively small town stretching on both sides of the main Ricardo Soriano Avenue, connecting to the exclusive Golden Mile west and the Severo Ochoa Avenue east. This area offers diverse residential options, including beachfront apartments, local neighborhoods, historic Andalusian townhouses, and luxurious apartment complexes and penthouses near the beach on the western side of town.

The western extension of Marbella town is an upscale area that stands out for its tranquility and seclusion. Yet, it is conveniently located within walking distance of top-notch amenities such as beaches, restaurants, cafes, shops, nightlife, parks, and beach clubs. This area also features prestigious spa hotels like Gran Melia Don Pepe, Marbella Club, and Puente Romano resort hotels. Being able to enjoy all of these facilities, as well as schools and sports centers, within easy reach reduces the need for cars and allows for a more fulfilling lifestyle.

Marbella town provides access to the nearby Golf Valley and offers many new lifestyle options.

We have a diverse range of properties available for sale in Marbella town, including penthouses and apartments, with options that cater to all needs and budgets, from properties in need of renovation to luxurious complexes with amenities such as gated security, concierge, lush gardens, pools, spa, and gym. While apartments are the most common type of property in the area, we also have villas for sale in Marbella town, in private, leafy suburbs just a short distance from the city center.

Shops in Marbella Centre.

Marbella center has hundreds of associations of all kinds. Clothing stores like Baloo and handmade items like Ana Ortiz ceramics. Antiques such as Bella época (ideal for buying exclusive decoration items) and municipal markets where you can fill the fridge with the best qualities. There are also many supermarkets and small shops in the heart of Alameda, such as La Canasta. Nearly all stores offer the option of home delivery, and many have agreements for the parking area.

But the center of Marbella is excellent for buying authentic and original gifts. D’Oliva, a beautiful shop dedicated to olive oil, stands out for its uniqueness. There are exciting hat options at MGM Hats; second-hand clothing from Channel and other brands in Vintage Deja vu; great educational toys in Juguettos; cashmere ponchos in Story 1961, or wines from all over the world in Casa Pablo Castillejos. The options are extensive, and visiting the Association of Merchants of the Old Town website is a reasonable consideration.

Some essential national brands include Mango, Sunglass Hut, Massimo Dutti, Sam Newman, and Primor. However, suppose you want to buy international brands. In that case, it is more common to go to Puerto Banús, which has comfortable bus connections and is a few minutes away by car.

The best thing about shopping in Marbella’s Old Town is the lively street atmosphere, with beautiful decorations or complementary activities to encourage shopping.

Where to eat in Marbella Centre?

Marbella center has many restaurants to choose from; occasionally, it takes time to determine. In a few square meters, there is a great variety of gastronomic establishments, with an infinity of flavors from many countries. For example, there have been many Michelin-starred establishments in the center of Marbella in recent years. The splendid Skina or Messina restaurants stand out, where you always need to book well in advance. Other top restaurants are Kava, Zozoi, Entre Limones, Back or Casanis Bistro Marbella.

For tapas, all the bars on Calle San Lázaro are essential: Conpasión, with a more modern touch, Casa Eladio, with the purest Andalusian style; El Estrecho, with more than sixty years of existence. Walking through the park of La Alameda, you can also find multiple quality restaurants. The most prevalent are Sidrería La Paca or Casa Blanca, where it is best to get a table on the terrace.

Walk along the passage of Marbella in the direction of Puerto Banús. You will reach the Avenida del Mar, where the offer is unlimited. Along the path, the possibilities are numerous as well. Soleo, Garum and Los Mellizos. Among the restaurants preferred by the neighbors are La Red, with sardine skewers in the city’s heart. Stand out.

Of oriental profile are the Japanese Ta-Kumi, for its incredible quality, and the Thai Sukhothai, for its elaborate Thai dishes. For families or a more casual menu, Toro Burguer and its tasty burgers, or Manuka, with its healthy culinary proposals.

Education and school in Marbella Centre.

As there are so many nationalities and cultures, the requests and styles of education are broad and very varied. The school offered in Marbella Centro is one of the most diverse in Andalusia. These are schools with prestige and good academic results. An excellent list of private profiles, such as the French school EFIM or the bilingual nursery Moonlighting. Of course, English schools like Swans or Aloha and the German school in the province of Málaga, also in Marbella. Even so, all public schools in Marbella and surrounding areas have buses that quickly pick up children in the center and take them to their facilities.

The center is an area affluent in education and extracurricular activities. The Official Conservatory or the Private Music School of Marbella for music is there. Many language academies include The Language House, Kids&Us, Inlingua, and Advanced. As for creativity, there is the Momo School of Arts and the Marbella Dance Academy.

What to do with children in Marbella Centre?

The center has green areas, parks, and pedestrian streets so you can enjoy the peace of an urban area. It is essential to know that Marbella is known for the “Child-Friendly City” award. So Marbella is not a tourist spot intended only for nightlife. Marbella is willing to offer experiences for the whole family.

Among its parks, we must highlight in the first place Alameda Park. It is the most central park in the city and one of the oldest it has beautiful centennial trees. It is the favorite place for grandparents to go with their grandchildren for its shade, benches, and kiosks with sweets and newspapers. In addition, it flows easily into the Avenida del Mar and the Paseo Marítimo, making it ideal for scooters and baby strollers.

Two other of Marbella’s best parks are in the center. One is the beautiful Constitution Park, with a children’s play area and an open-air theatrical auditorium. The other is next to the Xarblanca urbanization and has a lake with ducklings. The playground of the Marina and its original swings complement this offer. Another famous Dam Park is the Vigil de Quiñones woodland, where you can have picnics and the fun Paco Cantos sports center.

A few minutes from the center towards Malaga, we also have an adventure park with climbing, zip lines, and other activities. Take advantage of the opportunity to visit Aventura Amazonia.

Hospitals and health centers in Marbella.

Having such a dense population, Marbella has various hospitals and medical centers.

The most central is the Hospital Quirón Marbella, where they have internal medicine, medical tests, clinical analysis, and others.

The Ochoa Marbella Hospital also has a vast network of experts from all specialties.

But there is another offer in medicine as well. In Marbella center, you can find a broad mixture of private specialist doctors of all categories. Like Cliniti, specialists in aesthetic medicine, Marbeclinic for dentistry, or Doctor Almagro, nutrition and dietetics.

Beaches in Marbella Centre

The Marbella Centro area has sea views. Its beautiful promenade can be traveled from end to end by walking, cycling, and skating. The Marina La Bajadilla Marina, one of the most important ports in the city, is in the central region of Marbella. In this port, two different environments are mixed. On the one hand, the fishing area, with day laborers dedicated to fishing and repairing boats. On the other, the Marina, where there is a small nucleus of pubs, bars, and restaurants overseeing the docking of the boats.

As for its beaches, the center has a wilder and wider one, the famous beach of El Cable. In it, there are pleasant beach bars such as Bounty Beach, La Dolce Vita, or Playa Padre, and has networks for the practice of different sports such as beach volleyball. It is also where people celebrate San Juan’s festivities or the moragas. The remaining beaches in the center are semi-urban. La Bajadilla, Río Real, La Venus, El Faro, and La Fontanilla beaches have easy access from the promenade. They are full of dining options and have comfortable showers, sun loungers, or pedal boats for rent.

Nightlife in Marbella Centre.

There is no secret that one of Marbella’s most important tourist attractions is the fantastic nightlife that this city offers.

Throughout the city, you can find many establishments dedicated to this kind of activity, depending on the style of music and the moment of the day you want to enjoy them.

In Puerto Deportivo, you can find Punto Faro, a fantastic place to have a few cocktails, Lemmon Marbella, to enjoy the harbor front while having a drink. Also, enjoy the best music at Taok, a trendy place to dance.

But if you prefer more exclusive clubs and pubs. In just a few minutes drive away, you can find the famous nightclubs  Olivia Valere, La Suite, with a New York atmosphere, and Momento, on Marbella’s Golden Mile.

Marbella properties.

Are you looking for a perfect property in the Marbella area? Living in Marbella is a dream for many looking for properties in this bustling coastal region. It combines a luxurious lifestyle with unique nature under the sun of the south of Andalusia. Marbella is a city comprised of numerous areas, each offering its distinct charm and real estate opportunities.

You don’t need to be very rich to own real estate in Marbella. In the real estate market in Marbella and this area of Spain, property prices can vary drastically based on the size and the property type. Whether you are looking for a practical holiday or a luxury property in Costa del Sol, various homes satisfy all tastes and demands. Additionally, the area remains a favorite choice for property investment in Spain due to its dynamic nature. Apart from the exclusive yacht clubs and sea-view villas, there are also many other property options for a more affordable holiday or retirement home. We have also written an article about the living cost in Marbella, Spain, so those considering relocating can find out more.

Luxury real estate in Marbella centre.

When searching for apartments for sale in Marbella, many tend to concentrate on residential areas close to the beach or frontline golf settings. However, large complexes are also available in Marbella town’s exclusive western coastal province, which merges with the renowned Golden Mile.

Located in a privileged area, these luxury apartments offer the best of both worlds, with convenient access to many amenities such as golf courses, racquet clubs, spa resorts, schools, shopping, and fine dining. The complex is within walking distance of first-class beaches, eateries, retail streets, and the historic center of Marbella.

The upscale area of Marbella between the beaches and Ricardo Soriano avenue, adjacent to the Golden Mile, is sometimes called the “Hanging Gardens of Marbella.” This is because many of the luxurious apartment complexes in the area boast greenery on their spacious terraces, providing panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.

What is the best area in Marbella Centre to buy your dream home?

When we talk about Marbella center, we refer to an area with a high construction density. Here you can find properties of all types. It is vital to have an expert’s help to provide sound investment advice. Although Marbella is a prestigious and sought-after town in its way, not all areas are of the same standard. Of course, the most popular area is beachfront. Marbella has such extensive beaches, and depending on what other facilities you need around you, you can find different styles of properties.

Sea front apartment in Marbella centre

Should you be seeking a home in Marbella town itself this frontline beach apartment overlooking the stylish Paseo Marítimo promenade is an excellent choice. The secure, gated community has direct access to the promenade, where many quality dining options can be found. It is a short walk to the shopping opportunities of Marbella, as well as its historic old town, and of course the beach is literally on your doorstep.

Gated exclusivity and sea views in the heart of Marbella.

The proximity of this area to the high-end beach clubs, spas, and restaurants of five-star deluxe resorts like the Don Pepe Hotel is noteworthy. Furthermore, many apartment complexes in this area offer gated exclusivity, with amenities such as reception and concierge services, beautifully landscaped subtropical gardens, pool decks, indoor and outdoor pools, gyms, and private spas.

Venturing beyond the tranquil oasis of your private residence, you will find yourself just a few steps away from the seaside promenade and the beach. The high-end apartments and penthouses are available for sale in Marbella town range from chic studios directly on the beachfront to spacious five-bedroom homes at Don Gonzalo or a lavish three-bedroom apartment in Jardines del Mediterraneo, named after the stunning park-like gardens that it overlooks.

Moving further from the urban area of Marbella, we can see the site as being more to the east and more to the west. To locate on the map, the area of Marbella closest to Puerto Banús would be Puente Romano as the epicenter of  “La Milla de Oro” (Golden Mile), here you can find some of the most remarkable beachside properties such as: Uno Beach Residences. Just as you enter Marbella Centre through this area, you will find some of the most exclusive properties close to the Plaza del Mar shopping center where you can find a beautiful luxury apartments such as: Don Gonzalo, Gran Marbella, Mare Nostrum, Marina Mariola, Alhambra del Mar, Jardines del Mediterraneo,… or beautiful villas developments such as: Casablanca.

Moving further into the heart of the city center, we can reach the most central urban core of the whole city. This area has many opportunities. In this area, you can see flats for sale and rent. While the properties are a little smaller and older, some natural marvels are newly created. All of Marbella’s activities are just at a brief walking distance.

In the immediate surroundings of the prestigious Club Med, and just a few minutes drive from the center, would be the developments of Xarblanca and Don Miguel. Here we can find lovely villas and detached houses of all sizes. Other choices further up the hill are the villas in Huerta de Belón or properties in the quiet and exclusive Cascada de Camoján and Marbella Sierra Blanca.

Luxury penthouses for sale in Marbella city center.

If you’re looking for an exclusive penthouse walking distance to the amenities, you’ll want to check out LuxuryForSale.Properties listings in Marbella city center. Here, you’ll find some of the most exclusive penthouses available for sale on the Costa del Sol. Whether you’re interested in a spacious apartment with overwhelming sea views or a penthouse with plenty of amazing features, you’re sure to find something that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations here. If you want to learn more about one of Marbella’s most thrilling residential options, please do not hesitate to contact us.

LuxuryForSale.Properties Real Estate.

Apartments are one of the most sought-after property types in Marbella and Costa del Sol. Many house buyers are searching for Marbella flats for sale due to their advantages and benefits. If you are purchasing a property for only holidays, a small apartment with living and dining areas could be perfect. Also, those interested can buy Marbella apartments for sale by owners directly.

Contact LuxuryForSale.Properties to explore our range of properties for sale in Marbella town and discover why it is such an attractive option for real estate investment and lifestyle. Your dream home in Marbella is waiting for you. We are waiting for you.

Remember that in Marbella “You are not buying a house. You are buying a lifestyle.