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Perhaps the two most important places to visit in Marbella are the Casco Antiguo -- the old town of Marbella, and the La Plaza los Naranjos, popularly called Orange Square, in the center of the old town.
The Orange Square is a section of the old town partially surrounded by the ruins of an old wall, supposedly built during the Moorish occupation of Marbella. Here, one can find a 16th century town hall, the old governor’s house, and the Chapel of Santiago. The town hall was built in 1568 and retains much of its original appearance and features. The interior of the town hall features a ceiling carved in classic Mudejar style and the walls are covered in murals that were supposedly painted in 1572. Elsewhere in the old town of Marbella, one will find shops, art galleries, bars and restaurants, all little bustling centers of activity 24 hours a day.
For a slightly different treat, the town of Marbella features a number of landscaped parks and lovely gardens. One of these is the Nagueles Park, situated at the foot of the Sierra Blanca mountain. This is a great place for a picnic in the country. The Parque de la Constitucion is a large park that was once the garden of a private household. There is an amphitheater here that is used for concerts and plays in the summertime. The La Alameda is a plaza in the center of Marbella, while the King Fahiad Gardens overlook the famous “Golden Mile” area of Marbella. The Parque de las Medranas meanwhile, features a large lake, and the El Calvario displays a rock garden theme and a nearby bonsai museum.
Finally, the Puerto Banus is one place that visitors to Marbella should never miss. This is located just outside of Marbella to the west, and is today more than just a simple port. Puerto Bañus boasts a casino, commercial shopping center, a department store, a marine observatory, and multiple movie theaters. At night, the place is animated and abuzz with open air bars, piano clubs and discos.
Casino Nueva Andalucia is also in Puerto Banus, a huge casino with every game imaginable and a bar for drinking after winning or losing. Semi formal attire required, as well as passport or identification.
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