Go to town (literally)
Renaissance-era whitewashed buildings, cute cobbled streets, quaint cafés? Marbella Old Town (known locally as Casco Antiguo) really is the main character, with a whole maze of streets to explore, a sculpture-lined walkway (Avenida del Mar, we see you), a central plaza dotted with orange trees, and traditional Moorish walls that go way back. It's also where you'll find Alameda Park (more on that below), the 16th-century Town Hall, the ruins of Marbella Castle, and a bunch of bars, souvenir shops and bistros to stop for a bite.
Picnic at Turtle Lake
Can we take a moment to appreciate how cute that sounds?! This lake is only a few minutes away from the town centre, and it's the perfect opportunity to enjoy some peace and quiet, make some new turtle friends (hence the name), and even go for a dip in the calm waters. Technically, it's a reservoir rather than a lake, but with views this epic and a waterfront just begging for some picnic action, we're not gonna argue.
Zip it at Aventura Amazonia Marbella
If you've been acing your Spanish Duolingo lessons recently, then you'll know that this translates to Amazon Adventure Marbella, and it's actually the biggest adventure park in Andalusia, so buckle up. The park is kitted out with five circuits for adults and kids (aged 6+), each offering a mix of activities - from ziplines to adrenaline-fuelled jumps. Tickets give you access to the park for 3 hours, which is plenty of time to run wild and then relax at one of the restaurants or coffee shops.
Go for a swing
Golfing is actually one of the most popular things to do in Marbella (we couldn't believe it either - have they seen the beaches?!), but each to their own, hey? The good news is, for all you wannabe Tiger Woods folk out there, there are multiple courses to pick from here, including the world-class Marbella Club Golf Resort, boasting 18 holes, beaut waterfalls and views that stretch all the way to Africa. Try not to hit the ball that far though, yeah?
Shop 'til you drop at La Cañada Shopping Centre
Trafford Centre, eat your heart out. This swanky shopping centre is home to around 300 shops, restaurants and cafés, including an Apple store, a H&M, a Marks & Spencer's, an IKEA(?!!), a Taco Bell, a Starbucks and even a cinema - plus lots, lots more (obviously). Whether you're looking for a souvenir, a fuss-proof lunch or a new 'fit - this place has you covered.
Get arty at Ralli Museum
There are only five Ralli museums around the world, and this is one of 'em (the only one in Europe) - so hit it up if you fancy admiring some cool and colourful pieces. It's open from 10 'til 5 Tuesday-Friday, and 10 'til 4 on Saturdays, and it's home to a mix of Latin American and European contemporary art from the likes of Dalí, Henry Moore and Joan Miro - among others. Get your culture on!
