How to Explore Marbella on a Budget

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Marbella Spain is known for being a hub when it comes to glamour and excess but that doesn’t mean you can’t experience luxury for less. Marbella on a Budget – With this in mind, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to exploring Marbella on a budget.

When To Find The Cheapest Deals

The time of year can affect the price of your holiday significantly and so if you want to get the best deal, a bit of careful planning is in order.

One way to save money on your Marbella holiday is to avoid peak travel times. Flight and accommodation prices sky rocket around the months of July and August, not to mention the Easter holidays.

The sunny climate boasts 320 days of sunshine each year, so you can visit in the cheaper months of June and September without compromising on the beautiful weather.

Explore Marbella on a Budget
Explore Marbella on a Budget

Cheap or Free Things To Do In Marbella

Marbella has many activities in the leisure resort town on the coast of Spain. Stuffing yourself with tapas or simply lounging on the beach, there’s something for everything in this coastal town.

The beach

Marbella is home to some extraordinary beaches (23 in total) that don’t cost a penny to explore. Although, a sun lounger and an umbrella on the Golden Mile will set you back around €6 per day.

Golf

Sporty types should be sure to check out golfing in Marbella, click here to get the best tee times Spain.

Best golf courses in Spain Golf

Golfers will particularly enjoy the best golf courses in Marbella. There are 60+ courses to choose from.

Located in the Costa del Sol region of Spain, Marbella has it all. Here you will enjoy the scenic coast along with boutique shops, magnificent architecture, and local, family-run restaurants in town.

Museums

There are museums and galleries to explore as well. CAC Malaga (Centro de Arte Contemporaneo de Malaga) is a modern art museum showcasing works from the 20th and 21st centuries. 

The Cortijo Miraflores is a cultural center located in a former cane sugar mill. The building dates back to 1704. 

Another museum is the Museo Automovilistico de Malaga. It boasts over 80 modern and vintage automobiles. 

The Centre Pompidou Malaga is a pop-up space occupying three floors. This interactive gallery has hands-on activities for children and teens.

Explore the City

Why not go for a stroll around the city? Head to the charming Old Town and see the sights.

Explore the side streets and you will find row upon row of unique boutiques, so why not take some time out to window shop with friends?

No visit to Marbella is complete without a trip to Alameda Park where you can while away the hours, people watching as you stroll through the grounds without spending a penny – only stopping to marvel at the spectacular fountain.

Sightseeing is an affordable way to keep the cost down during your trip, so why not explore the nearby town of San Pedro de Alcantara?

Budget Accommodation in Marbella

Accommodation is a cost that you can’t avoid, but that doesn’t mean you have to pay over and above to stay in Marbella Spain.

The great thing about this luxurious hot spot is that despite the glamorous reputation, there is truly an option for every budget – from affordable hostels to budget friendly self-catering villas, there is something for everyone.

If you are travelling in a large group, a private villa may be the most cost-effective option as you can divide the cost of the accommodation evenly between you. The larger the group, the bigger the saving.

If you are happy to cook for yourself, you can make huge savings by stocking up on pocket friendly ingredients from the local supermarket, rather than spending money on eating meals out.

If you are a solo traveler, you may want to consider a hostel with kitchen facilities as this will work out far cheaper than a hotel, and you can choose to save money by cooking for yourself throughout your trip.

You might be lucky and score a night at a hostel that is only steps away from the beach. The best money saving option will depend both on your group size and your personal preference.

A top tip – just by changing the dates of your stay to the shoulder months, rather than July – September, you can save more than half the price on accommodation!

For example, you can get a beachfront private villa that sleeps 4 people, for £34 a night in April. In August, this same apartment gets bumped up to £83 a night!

Budget Places to Eat in Marbella

Eating in fancy restaurants can quickly demolish your holiday budget so try to opt for restaurants and cafes that are located off the seafront.

One way to save money on food is to seek out restaurants that locals flock to as opposed to tourist hotspots.

For the cheapest eats, head to the Old Town.Here you will find excellent tapas and Spanish cuisine that won’t make your eyes water when you get the bill.

La Taberna del Pintxo is a popular choice for its unique ordering options. Waiters walk around with trays of small bites, each one with a price tag – a novel way of monitoring your spending.

Although it’s not always advertised, a three-course ‘menú del dia’ (menu of the day) is offered in most cafés and restaurants for lunch.

So be sure to ask the waiter for it! You’ll be able to bag a three-course meal – usually with a drink – for under €15!

Budget Friendly Marbella Nightlife

Marbella is a party town and if you want to mingle with the A-Listers, you will have to pay for the privilege. Yes, going to a nightclub isn’t cheap but a night on the tiles doesn’t have to break the bank.

One great way to save money is to visit your local supermarket and stock up on spirits to drink in your villa or hostel before you go out.

If you are prepared to go out early, many nightclubs including Tibu offer free entry for guests that arrive before a certain time.

Some bars in Puerto Banus have no entry fee, such as Linekers.

So, there you have it, if you are travelling to Marbella on a budget, these tips will help you to make your money go further.

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