Marbella, one of the most renowned cities on the Costa del Sol in southern Andalusia, captivates with its stunning location and rich history. Settled as far back as the Neolithic era, the area has long been known for its favorable conditions. Marbella itself was founded by the Phoenicians in the 3rd century BC as a trading city and quickly became an important Mediterranean hub. The Romans later took advantage of Marbella's strategic location. From the 8th to the late 15th century, Marbella was under Moorish rule, and many impressive structures from this period still remain.

Until the mid-20th century, Marbella was a quaint town where mostly fishermen lived and worked for over 400 years. However, towards the end of the 19th century, the scene began to change: many Spanish noble families discovered the allure of Marbella’s sun and sea, initially spending their vacations here before settling permanently in the region. By the mid-20th century, word spread across Europe about the charm of southern Spain, especially in the summer, and tourism began to become a significant economic factor. Marbella quickly became one of the top tourist destinations, with much of its current wealth attributed to the influx of affluent visitors in the 1950s and 1960s.

Marbella offers more than just its luxurious beach and high-end hotels. The old town, with its winding streets, small squares, and fountains, is a gem worth exploring. Numerous small bars and restaurants invite visitors to linger and enjoy. Particularly in winter, when it rarely gets truly cold, Marbella is a popular destination for long-term stays to escape the chilly weather of Germany. Although November and December can see a higher chance of rain, temperatures remain pleasant. Summers, especially in June, July, August, and September, can be very hot, with temperatures often reaching 30 degrees Celsius or more.

Marbella’s attractions include not only its beautiful beaches and luxury hotels but also numerous sights. The marinas, such as the famous Puerto Banús, and the old fishing port are particularly noteworthy. In the suburb of San Pedro de Alcántara, visitors can see ancient mosaics and the ruins of a 4th-century basilica from the early Christian era. The Moorish city wall and various museums and churches in Marbella also merit a visit.

Aside from exploring these attractions, it’s also worth spending a leisurely day lounging on the beach and soaking up Marbella's relaxed atmosphere.