Malaga is a magnificent destination in itself, but take a day trip to Marbella for even more stunning scenes, entertaining activities and delicious food.

A day trip from Malaga to Marbella promises a delightful blend of Mediterranean beauty, luxurious resorts, historic charm, and vibrant street life.

Whether you seek relaxation on pristine beaches, a taste of the high life at Puerto Banús, or a stroll through Marbella's picturesque Old Town, this excursion offers a tantalizing taste of the Costa del Sol's allure.

Here's all you need to know about Marbella, one of the most exciting day trips from Malaga.

How to get to Marbella from Malaga?

Mabrella is just under an hour south of Malaga, an easy drive along the coast.

From Malaga to Marbella by car

Leave Malaga on the MA-20 in a southward direction and merge onto the AP-7 after about 12 kilometers. From there, continue along the AP-7 or take the scenic coastal A-7 route all the way to Marbella.

From Malaga to Marbella by bus

There are buses departing every 20 minutes from Malaga to Marbella. These are convenient and not too expensive but very busy and you need to book in advance.

Guided tour to Marbella from Malaga

The best way to explore Marbella is with a day tour from Malaga. It is often combined with several stops for a full-day adventure or you can undertake a short trip with an included activity for a few hours of fun.

What is the typical itinerary?

One of the most popular excursions to Marbella is a day trip from Malaga, including visits to Mijas and Puerto Banús. This tour takes you south of Malaga to see the most precious locations on Costa del Sol.

Meet your guide at a central location in Malaga or be ready for early morning pickup around 10 AM if you booked a private tour. Your first stop is the picture-perfect town of Mijas, known for its white-washed houses that create a labyrinth of winding streets filled with treasures.

After exploring this captivating town you will head to Marbella to indulge in its opulent architecture, unspoiled beaches and world-class shopping. You will have plenty of free time to explore Marbella and enjoy some lunch.

Your last stop brings you to the pinnacle of luxury on the Spanish south coast. Visit Puerto Banús, a world-famous haven of luxury where you'll have the freedom to explore the opulent port area at your own pace. Marvel at the magnificent coastal vistas and the extravagant yachts that grace the harbor.

As the day draws to a close, we'll return you to Málaga along the stunning scenic highway and be dropped off at the start location around 6 PM.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Marbella?

Choose an excursion to Marbella that suits your budget and traveling style just perfectly:

Private tour to Marbella from Malaga

Private tours to Marbella mirror the sense of luxury promoted by this region of Spain. You will enjoy pickup from your hotel and transportation in a comfortable van or car just for your party. You can choose from a short 4-hour tour of Marbella or opt for a more comprehensive 8-hour tour of Marbella, Mijas and Puerto Banús.

Day tour to Marbella plus Mijas and Puerto Banús from Malaga

This 8-hour group tour shows off all the best towns on Costa del Sol. You will start the tour by strolling through a charming village and finish among the yachts of billionaires glistening in the marina. You will have plenty of free time to explore each town and see why this region constantly captures the hearts of all who visit.

How much does a day trip to Marbella from Malaga cost?

Group tours to Marbella, Mijas and Puerto Banús offer excellent value for money, and you can expect to pay between €35 and €45 per person. This includes transportation from a central point in Malaga and a guide for the duration of the tour.

A private day trip to Marbella costs €500 for up to 4 adults. Up to 3 children can join for free. The more comprehensive private day tour to Marbella, Mijas and Puerto Banús costs €635 per person but the price is reduced for larger bookings.

It costs €330 per person for groups of four or €230 for groups of 6. These private tours to Marbella all include hotel pickup and drop off, luxury transportation and a personal guide.

What will you see and do?

This is what you can look forward to at each of the stops of the most popular excursions to Marbella:

Marbella

This striking city sits gracefully along the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean and is a jewel of the Costa del Sol. It is known for its pristine beaches and draws you in with a blend of natural beauty, opulent architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere.

Here, you can stroll along the elegant promenade, shop in high-end boutiques, and admire the enchanting old town's historic charm, all while basking in the gentle Andalusian sun.

Mijas

This picturesque Andalusian village captivates visitors with its timeless charm and beautiful landscapes. This quintessential Spanish village is a memorable montage of white-washed houses, cobbled streets, and colorful flowers cascading down the facades. As you wander through its narrow lanes, you'll find yourself transported to a bygone era, where tranquility and tradition reign supreme.

Puerto Banús

Puerto Banús is a world-renowned haven of luxury and extravagance known for its “Golden Mile”. This exclusive marina is a playground for the rich and famous, boasting a stunning array of opulent yachts, upscale boutiques, and chic restaurants.

As you explore the marina, you'll be enveloped in an atmosphere of glamour and sophistication, with breathtaking coastal vistas serving as a backdrop to the jet-set lifestyle that defines Puerto Banús.

When is the best time to visit Marbella?

The best time to visit Marbella is in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, this allows for a more tranquil experience in this beautiful coastal city.

The ideal months are in the shoulder seasons of spring, from April to May, and in the autumn, from September to October.

Travel tips

Bring essentials like a hat, sunscreen, water, and a light jacket. Marbella's weather can vary, so it's good to be prepared.
Plan your day ahead and confirm the attractions you'll visit in Marbella. Research the must-see spots to make the most of your time.
Compare transportation options like bus, train, or organized tours to find the most convenient and cost-effective way to reach Marbella.
Ensure you have enough time to explore Marbella while adhering to the tour schedule.

Marbella: Day Trips and Tours from Málaga