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.

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Those visiting Marbella in summer can prepare to soak up the sun, as daytime temperatures climb to 30C and beyond, while evenings are generally warm enough for short sleeves. Spring and autumn are also pleasantly warm; you can expect temperatures to hover above 20C. 

On winter days, however, averages drop into the teens, which is why Marbella - although still open to holidaymakers - is significantly quieter from November to February than it is in summer.

Carnival; February: Or carnaval, if you want to get into the Spanish lingo. This is a fabulous spectacle during which the pre-Lent celebrations entice joyful parades and processions onto the streets of Marbella.

San Bernabe Fiesta and Summer Fair; June: Marbella's patron saint is honoured with events in the resort. The attractions on offer range from fairground thrills to wine tasting and bullfights. 

Feria de Malaga/Malaga Fair; August: Take a drive up the coast in August to see one of the oldest and most popular events in Spain. Fireworks, flamenco dancers, and people in fancy dress have a grand old time, all to a soundtrack of traditional Spanish music. It is an event not to be missed.

Grown-up families: After a day on the beach, get scrubbed and showered and head out for a family meal on the waterfront. Seafood is a local speciality, so order the catch of the day and let the restaurant surprise you. 

Shopping: Shopping doesn't always come in designer bags in Marbella; La Canada is a huge shopping centre where you'll find a host of familiar brands as well as some excellent Spanish labels.

Families: Get the children to tick off the stars on the Boulevard of Fame in Puerto Banus before heading to the Saturday market for a spot of antique shopping. 

Sporty types: With golf courses, tennis courts, watersports and horse riding all on offer, there are many sporting activities you can easily take part in close to Marbella. Check with your local hotel for the nearest. 

Sightseeing: Hire a car and head east to Malaga for excellent shopping and some great sightseeing at the Alhambra and art museums. Head south and spend the day in Gibraltar for a slice of the UK in the sun, or head inland and visit Ronda with its stunning gorge and bridge.