When people talk about going to Marbs, what they really mean is that they're off to party in Puerto Banus. The Spanish equivalent to St Tropez, it's known as one of the most luxurious resort towns in the world and boasts an endless supply of restaurants, bars, clubs and shops to keep you entertained throughout your stay.
Marbella's hotspot, Puerto Banus, can be found in a marina located on the southwest coast of Marbella on the Costa Del Sol, Spain. In recent years, Puerto Banus has earned itself a reputation as being a playground of the rich and famous and celebs and royalty alike have all been papped here enjoying the sun.
The closest airport is Malaga, and the journey should cost around 70 to 80 Euros in a taxi. Alternatively, if you want to save your money you do have the option of a public bus, which you can find situated outside T3 arrivals. Either way, if you're off to Marbella this year, one thing's for certain – you're definitely in for a good time.
Where to eat:
Catering for the world's rich and famous means Marbella has some fantastic eateries that not only offer an extensive selection of cuisine, but also offer a brilliant night out.
Nikki Beach is just a €30 taxi journey from Puerto Banus and represents everything cool and glamourous about beachside chilling. This is where Marbella's exclusive crowd can be found and is universally known for their fun vibes and good food (and we're really excited to hear they'll be opening in Ibiza this summer, too).
La Sala promises the ultimate social and dining experience day and night, and they don't disappoint with an extensive menu and a lively crowd. Soak up the atmosphere on their decked terrace, opt for private dining, or sit right in the middle of it all with one of their bar-side tables – it's up to you.
If you're into your Japanese food, Namazake is set within the Marbella Club and has a reputation for being one of the best Japanese restaurants in the area. It's also right next door to Suite nightclub, so it's the perfect starting point for a night of debauchery.
Alternatively, Infuschia restaurant is just on the side of popular night spot Tibu, and offer a variety of great dining deals, especially good if you're in a big group, and perfect if you want to pop next door for a spot of partying afterwards.
However if you're looking for somewhere affordable, central, easy and fun, you can't go wrong with a trip to Pizzeria Picasso on the Marina side, and you'll find plenty more independent and authentic eateries if you take the time to explore the area.
Where to shop:
The shopping in Puerto Banus is second to none and you can expect to find endless rows of boutiques and high-end designers, including Dior, Versace, Louis Vuitton and Bvlguri. But whilst the shopping scene here is all about designer labels, you also have the largest El Corte Ingles department store in Spain right on your doorstep, as well as the Cristamar and the Marina Banus shopping centres. Just be sure to make sure you go with space in your suitcase!
Where to sightsee:
We'd probably be kidding ourselves if we said we went to Puerto Banus to sightsee, although of course the surrounding area is beautiful and that option is there should you want it. Marbella is the place to see and BE seen, and if you're looking for something to titillate the senses, your best bet would be to head down to the port when the marina is teaming with millionaires yachts and sleek super-cars. Of course, there are still some traces of authentic Spain all around you, with tapas bars and pavement cafes in abundance, but if you're looking for something eye-popping then the Puerto Banus marina will certainly do the job.
Where's the party?
In the summer months you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to places to party, and if you're looking for a good few days of luxurious, hedonistic fun then you've definitely come to the right place.
As with any trip, it can sometimes feel a little daunting having to organise where to go, but luckily Sintillate Marbella has been around for years and have earned themselves a stellar reputation for being Marbella's best-known party organisers, with nights at some of Puerto Banus's most sought after hotspots.
Pangea is one of the most popular pre-club destinations, with a large, open-air terrace and plenty of space to mingle. It's also handily positioned on the marina front, and attracts many a yacht owner looking for the party. Newscafe is also a popular place to start out for drinks, and 2013 sees them open their brand new and exclusive members terrace.
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