IS BETTER MARBELLA OR ESTEPONA?

Is Estepona or Marbella better? It depends on your lifestyle ideas or your goals: just for vacation, to have a second residency, buying to invest and do short term rent…

Marbella is perfect for all travellers, whether you want to go to the most luxurious beach clubs in Costa del Sol, spend a romantic getaway in the old town or explore its natural surroundings, Marbella is for you. Which is true is that Marbella is not exactly cheap regarding the current demand since last years.

Estepona has a more relaxing vibe that is ideal for families. It has a lesser international atmosphere but plenty of things to do and lovely beaches.

As a local, it’s challenging to choose which is better because we think both destinations are perfect, because have different things to offer. However, in this article we are going to compare the main aspects you’d consider, such as attractions, proximity to the airport, excursions and more.

This travel comparison between Estepona and Marbella will help you decide which destination is the best for you.

ESTEPONA

Estepona is home to many incredible attractions. Before people visit its historic centre for the first time, they don’t used to be sure if there will be enough to do, but after visiting it, everyone confirm there is plenty to do in Estepona and its surroundings.

Estepona’s main highlight is its old town. It’s considered one of the most beautiful old towns in the province of Malaga, and it’s commonly known as “Jardín de Costa del Sol”, which translates to the garden of Costa del Sol.

The old town is bigger than the one in Marbella, and you’ll absolutely love its cobblestone streets, beautiful flower pots (which have different colours according to the street), tranquil squares to enjoy a coffee, and monuments.

In fact, you can take a few walking routes depending on your interests – from exploring all the picturesque streets to discovering statues or street art. These are self-guided walks, so you do it at your pace, and you can find the maps on the Estepona website.

Visiting Estepona with children? Selwo Aventura is perfect for kids of all ages. This safari, located just before arriving in Estepona town, has over 2,000 animals to learn about and adventure activities, such as zipline and archery.

Other fun activities with kids include visiting the Orchid House, spending the day at the beach and going on a short hike.

MARBELLA

Marbella is one of the most popular destinations in Costa del Sol. Its charming atmosphere and a wide variety of activities make travellers fall in love with this town.

If there’s one place you must see in Marbella is its old town. It’s a very charming part of Marbella, and once you’re there, you’ll understand why. Anyway, the most attractive thing of this city is that you can get what you need regarding your mood: Spanish vibe, with the best restaurants or the most fancy and international atmosphere places.

Regarding the old town, its pretty whitewashed streets decorated with flower pots, its vibrant atmosphere in Plaza de los Naranjos, and its bohemian independent clothing shops, among other things, make it a charming place. It is also home to historic buildings like Castillo de Marbella (the remaining walls of Marbella’s Castle), statues and the Museum of Spanish Contemporary Engravings.

Another popular area to visit in Marbella is Puerto Banús, considered one of the most luxurious ports in Europe. Expensive yachts, shops from worldwide known brands like Gucci and restaurants overlooking the port.

Which has better attractions? Both towns have a similar range of activities to do.

ACCOMODATION : ESTEPONA OR MARBELLA ?

ESTEPONA

Estepona has incredible family-friendly hotels,more affordable hostels right in the old town, and 4 and 5-star hotels on the beachfront.

If you want to be close to the main attractions and beach, we suggest staying in or next to the historic centre. However, if you prefer a quiet holiday, stay outside Estepona and consider renting a car to travel around with ease.

MARBELLA

The accommodation range in Marbella is extensive. Luxury 5-star hotels with incredible facilities to keep you entertained all day long, adults-only hotels next to the beach, beautiful and unique apartments in the picturesque old town of Marbella, and the list goes on.

Although many people believe Marbella is expensive, you can also find affordable accommodation near attractions.

Which has better accommodation? Marbella has more accommodation options than Estepona.

ESTEPONA OR MARBELLA: BEACHES

ESTEPONA

Estepona has 23 km of coastline and over 15 beaches to soak up the sun and have a fantastic day relaxing at the beach.

You’re spoilt for choice from golden sand beaches, tranquil waters, and beautiful views of the Strait of Gibraltar. Whether you want a family-friendly beach with excellent facilities or to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in nature, there’s a beach in Estepona for you.

These are some of the best beaches in Estepona:

• Playa del Cristo

• Playa de la Rada

• Playa del Saladillo

• Playa de la Galera

MARBELLA

As happens with Estepona, Marbella also has an extensive coastline. There are beaches for all travellers – beaches where you can relax and enjoy the beach without crowds, beaches where you can sip a cocktail while listening to live music and family-friendly beaches. In our opinion, you will find the best beaches going to Elviria direction.

These are some of the best beaches in Marbella:

• Playa del Faro

• Playa Cabopino

• Playa de Nagüeles

• Playa de Puerto Banús

• Playa de la Bajadilla.

ESTEPONA OR MARBELLA: NIGHTLIFE

ESTEPONA

Estepona has two main areas to go out with friends or your partner. If you want to start the evening by having drinks and tapas, go to the centre, home to many lively restaurants, bars and clubs that often close at about 4 am.

The most famous place in Estepona to go out is Estepona’s Port. You’ll find the best clubs and terraces in this area. However, some of them aren’t open all year round.

This year and the next very good brands have started their project in this area (like Beso Beach, originally from Formentera, in Balearic Islands) and is blooming every year, so don’t hesitate to contact NB Estates Spain for suggestions.

An alternative is to visit nearby locations like Sotogrande (25 minute drive) or Puerto Banús (20 minute drive).

MARBELLA

Who hasn’t heard of Marbella’s nightlife? It’s one of the things Marbella is known for.

Marbella offers a more upscale nightlife experience than other Costa del Sol towns, especially if you go clubbing.

You actually don’t need to wait until the night to start the party. There are famous beach clubs like La Plage Casanis, Nosso Beach Club, Playa Padre or Ocean Club Marbella that have fantastic live entertainment, cocktails and events you’ll definitely want to attend.

Which has better nightlife? Marbella has better nightlife than Estepona.

RESTAURANTS

ESTEPONA

Estepona is home to many restaurants and beach bars where you can enjoy traditional Spanish dishes and delicious fresh fish.

There are plenty of options in the historic centre as well as on the coast. On the beach promenade, you’ll find great chiringuitos (beach bars) serving typical dishes in Malaga, like espetos de sardinas(sardine skewers) and fantastic seafood.

When it comes to international cuisine, you’ll mostly find fish restaurants, Italian, Mediterranean and a few Mexican and Asian.

MARBELLA

Marbella has become a culinary destination because of all the fantastic fine-dining restaurants you can find. Locals chefs come up with unique dishes that combine traditional Andalusian flavours with modern cooking techniques.

But it isn’t all about fine dining; you can also enjoy a good meal at many regular restaurants and bars. Our top advice is to avoid where the tourists go. For example, don’t eat a meal exactly at Plaza de los Naranjos : walk a little bit further to have a better one.

Another great thing about the Marbella food scene is the variety of international cuisines you can find. You don’t necessarily need to eat Spanish tapas; you can eat Italian, Japanese, French dishes and more.

Which has better restaurants? Marbella has more variety of international cuisines and many incredible fancy and fine-dining restaurants.

PROXIMITY TO AIRPORT

ESTEPONA

Estepona is 1 hour drive from Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport.

The best way to travel from Estepona to Malaga airport is by car, but you can also get a bus from Estepona coach station.

MARBELLA

Marbella is a 40 minute drive from Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport.

It’s easy to travel from Marbella to the airport. The road is very safe and straightforward, and you can go by car or bus from Marbella bus station.

Which is closer to the airport? Marbella is closer to Malaga Airport.

EXTRA: EXPAT LIFE

Maybe you’re considering moving to any of these lovely towns. If you come to study or have children, your decision will probably be based on budget, lifestyle, and education.

Pros and cons of moving to Estepona

It’s easier to find cheaper accommodation than in Marbella

Perfect for families

Beautiful and tranquil beaches

Smaller expat community

Pros and cons of moving to Marbella

Incredible expat community

Lovely atmosphere

Well-recognised international schools

Fantastic nightlife

It can get crowded in summer

CONCLUSION

Which is better? This really depends on the type of activities you enjoy doing. We have a soft spot for Marbella, but Estepona is equally beautiful.

Marbella is a destination for everyone because of the diversity of things to do, while Estepona is quieter, more traditional and better for families looking for a more relaxing atmosphere, even it’s becoming more trendy each year.

Both coastal towns are close to each other, so you also have the opportunity to enjoy both.

If you have any questions about Estepona or Marbella, contact us! We’ll be happy to help you.