Marbella sounds like glitz and Gucci, but it's also Andalusian charm and whitewashed alleys full of fragrant orange trees. From Malaga, hop on a bus (Avanza, 1 hour travel time) and in no time you're in a place where the morning starts with churros in a patio and ends with sand between your toes. Perfect for a day trip full of contrasts.
Start in Casco Antiguo, the old town. Here you will see the other face of Marbella: intimate, cheerful and Spanish to the bone. Stroll through narrow streets, discover hidden squares and order a café con leche at Plaza de los Naranjos. Don't forget to look inside the church in the square and small boutiques full of ceramics and linens.
Time for beach. From the center you can walk to the sand in 10 minutes. Along the promenade (Paseo Marítimo) you'll find a mix of simple chiringuitos and stylish beach clubs like Luuma Beach or La Plage Casanis. You lunch with grilled sardines, gazpacho or a paella overlooking the sea.
Still have oomph left? Take a bus or cab to Puerto Banús. Here you'll stroll past yachts bigger than your hotel room, see shiny cars with Dubai license plates and order an Aperol on a terrace overlooking people who do wear designer clothes. It's over the top - and the perfect end to your day for that very reason.
The last bus back goes late enough to linger. Tickets are easily booked through avanzabus.com, or buy them locally at Marbella's bus station. Expect €8 to €12 round trip.
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