Travel Guides > Marbella > Attractions

Marbella Attractations

Marbella is the Costa del Sol’s VIP town, full of high rollers driving flash cars and enjoying the flash nightlife. But Marbella has so much more to offer than just trendy parties, there are some great attractions that make the area a huge hit with tourists.

Museums and Art Galleries

Although Marbella probably isn’t regarded as a cultural epicentre it does have a good selection of interesting museums and art galleries that attract visitors from across the Costa del Sol.

For those that enjoy fine art the Contemporary Spanish Print Museum showcases art from popular Spanish artists such as Picasso, Chillida, Miro and Tapies. Another popular art gallery in Marbella is the Galería Municipal de Exposiciones, a gallery offering works by both Spanish and international artists, many of repute and others who are up-and-coming.

Historical Sights

Las Bovedas (the domes) are the remains of Marbella’s old Roman baths. Historians are still unsure of the baths true origins, although most believe that they are what remain of the Roman settlement known as Cilniana (pictured below). You can visit these baths along with the well conserved Villa Romana. The baths are only easily accessible via car so you will need to have a hire car or take a taxi.

Free guided tours are available on certain days bookable through the local tourist office.

At Basilica Vega del Mar visitors will find a paleo-Christian construction built in the 4th century, this is one of the only remaining ruins from this era in Spain. Following various excavations, there have been many archaeological pieces found that prove the presence of ancient cultures in the region.

Tours are available of the ruin three days a week, check with the local tourist office for time and dates.

Water Parks

There are several water parks located within a short drive of Marbella including Mijas Park, located on the main road from Marbella to Fuengirola. The park is full of attractions such as wild rivers, wave pools, numerous slides and sun bathing areas.

Prado World is another popular theme park with a large water park area. Prado World also has dry activities including mini golf, football and basketball courts.

Family Attractions

There are plenty of family friendly attractions in and around Marbella. One such attraction is Funny Beach located, as its name would suggest, by the coast. This however is a beach with a difference offering a variety of attractions including go-karts, trampolines and miniature golf.

Just a short 30 minute drive from the centre of Marbella, in Terremolinos, is the famous Crocodile Park. The park is home to a fantastic range of crocs including some that are over 60 years old and some that weight in excess of 450 kilos! For those that a brave enough feeding time is without a doubt the highlight of a day at the Crocodile Park!