While the nearby resorts of Benalmadena and Torremolinos attract those looking for heady nightlife and budget breaks, Marbella offers a more upmarket holiday experience with oodles of old-school glamour.
Located on one of the sunniest stretches of Spain's Mediterranean coastline, Marbella is easily reached from Malaga International Airport (AGP) and is well situated for exploring the surrounding mountains, villages, forests, golf courses, spas, and peaceful sandy coves.
In fact, for all the beautiful people and paparazzi-beckoning celebs, the beaches are the undoubted stars of Marbella holidays. You don't need to be a millionaire to flop onto the soft sands and soak up the sun as the waves gently lap the shore. But you might enjoy watching the millionaires' yachts bobbing around on the shimmering waters in Puerto Banus' harbour while sipping Champagne cocktails at the waterside cafés and bars.
You can buy an outfit worthy of this chic resort at the Cavalli, Dior and Gucci shops - if your holiday cash stretches that far. And even if you don't have a yacht of your own, the wealth of luxury hotels and top-class restaurants vying for your attentions among the palm trees and subtropical gardens will not disappoint.
After dinner, meanwhile, you can dance the night away in one of the sophisticated nightclubs on the Golden Mile between Marbella and swanky Puerto Banus. Alternatively, simply settle into a comfortable chair in Marbella's orange-scented Plaza de los Naranjos for a peaceful end to your day in the sun.
Are you tempted by cheap holidays to Marbella? Use the search tool on TravelSupermarket to compare prices and book your dream break.
