the 9-to-5 nomad's guide to solo travel
WHERE TO STAY
top neighborhoods for solo travelers & first-time visitors
SEARCH TOP HOTELS & HOSTELS FOR SOLO TRAVELERS
PORTO BANUS
Known for its luxury yachts, upscale boutiques, and vibrant nightlife, Puerto Banús is ideal for those seeking a glamorous and lively atmosphere. It's also close to beautiful beaches and offers plenty of dining and entertainment options.
OLD TOWN
This area is full of charm with its narrow streets, historic buildings, and quaint shops and restaurants. Its also a more budget friendly option.
GOLDEN MILE
If you are there for a beach holiday, then stay on the Golden Mile. This stretch of coastline between Marbella and Puerto Banús is lined with luxurious resorts, beach clubs, and upscale residences. It provides easy access to both Old Town and Porto Banus.
WHERE TO PLAY
Top Nightlife Hotspots, Beach Clubs & Bars
Main Nightlife District: Puerto Banus
NIKKI BEACH
Location: Elviria, Marbella
About: Beach Club
OCEAN CLUB MARBELLA
Location: Puerto Banus
About: Beach Club
LA SALA BY THE SEA
Location: Puerto Banus
About: Beach Club
OPIUM BEACH CLUB
Location: La Costa Del Sol, Marbella
About: Beach Club
BONO BEACH
Location: Costa Bella, Marbella
About: Beach Club
TIBU BANUS
Location: Puerto Banus
About: Stylish Night Club
PANGEA
Location: Puerto Banus
About: Stylish Night Club featuring big name DJ's
JOHN SCOTTS
Location: Puerto Banus
About: Waterfront Brew Pub
BENABOLA SKY LOUNGE
Location: Puerto Banus
About: Roof Top Bar
AIR ROOFTOP BY BREATHE
Location: Puerto Banus
About: Roof Top Bar
what to do
top attractions, day trips & adventures
day trip to GIBRALTER
Take a day trip to the British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar, where you can visit the famous Rock of Gibraltar, Siege Tunnels and encounter Barbary macaques, Europe's only wild monkeys. Its worth visiting St. Michael's Cave, a network of caves located within the Rock of Gibraltar. The caves have been used for centuries, and there is evidence of habitation dating back to the Neanderthals.
WINE TASTING
SerranÃa de Ronda
Located about an hour's drive inland from Marbella, the SerranÃa de Ronda produces a variety of red, white, and rosé wines. Some of the most popular grape varieties include Tempranillo, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Moscatel. Some of the most popular wineries include Bodega Doña Felisa, Bodegas Descalzos Viejos, and Bodega Ronda.
DAY TRIP TO FRIGILIANA
A hidden gem nestled in the mountains of Andalusia, Spain, known for its whitewashed houses, narrow cobbled streets, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.Frigiliana sits at the foothills of the Sierra Almijara mountain range. Wander through the maze of narrow streets adorned with colorful flowers and discover hidden squares and charming cafes.
day trip malaga
Explore the vibrant city of Malaga, the birthplace of Picasso. Visit the Picasso Museum, wander through the Malaga Cathedral, stroll along the Muelle Uno harbor, and enjoy the delicious tapas scene. Malaga is a great option for a cultural day trip.
off the beaten path
hidden gems beyond the popular tourist attractions
experience
Flamenco Marbella
Flamenco Marbella is a company that presents traditional flamenco shows in the heart of Marbella, Spain. They are known for their focus on authenticity and intimate performances. Unlike some larger productions, Flamenco Marbella avoids elaborate sets or choreography. The focus is on the raw emotion and artistry of the flamenco dancers and musicians.
day trip to granada
This historic city is home to the world-famous Alhambra palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Granada also boasts a charming old town, the AlbayzÃn neighborhood, and the Sacromonte caves. It's a bit further than other day trips on this list (around a 2-hour drive), but it's worth it if you have the time.
Caminito del Rey
The Caminito del Rey, also known as the King's Little Pathway, is located about an hour drive north of Marbella, near the town of El Chorro. The walkway itself is a series of suspended paths and boardwalks attached to the cliffs of the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes gorge. The gorge was carved by the Guadalhorce River and has walls that are up to 700 meters high
municipal market
Marbella’s main food market is located just north of the old town and opens every day from 8am to 3pm. Its colourful stalls sell fruit and vegetables, meats, cheeses, olive oils, spices and wines; and, as is always the case in Spain, they serve as meeting points for the locals, who socialise as they shop. Take a coffee at the bar within and soak up the atmosphere.