If you're looking to discover Marbella's villages or charming spots in the surrounding area, you're in the right place. Marbella is not only synonymous with luxury and paradisiacal beaches, it is also the perfect starting point to explore small white villages full of history, culture and spectacular views. In this article we suggest a route through the most beautiful villages close to Marbellaand we show you how to do it with Visitanddo.com's organised excursions.
If you are short of time and don't want to worry:
Which villages in and around Marbella are worth a visit?
Mijas Pueblo, a white balcony overlooking the Mediterranean Sea


Mijas Village is pure Andalusian postcard: white houses, cobbled streets full of flowers, y vertiginous viewpoints overlooking the sea. Only 30 minutes from Marbellathis charming corner offers art, tradition y peace of mind in a single walk. You can visit its oval bullring, the sanctuary of the Virgen de la Peña or simply lose yourself in its narrow streets with a taste of history.
Mijas is also the home of celebrities donkey-taxisof a vibrant arts community which has found its refuge here, and of the CAC Mijasa surprising contemporary art centre which houses works by Picasso y Dalí in the heart of the village. A an excursion that mixes culture, sights and Mediterranean soul.
How to visit it?
With the excursion to Mijas, Marbella and Puerto Banús from Málaga, available at Visitanddo.comYou will have free time to explore the village, visit the CAC Mijas and experience its bohemian atmosphere.
Benalmádena Pueblo, white essence among flowers

Much quieter than its coastal neighbour, Benalmádena Pueblo is a haven of peace nestled between the mountains and the sea. This old town full of bougainvillea and white alleyways holds gems such as the Colomares Castlea unique tribute to Christopher Columbus, and the Illumination StupaThe largest Buddhist temple in Europe.
From its viewpoints, the Costa del Sol opens up like a map at your feet. Strolling along Benalmádena Pueblo is to return to the Andalusia of yesteryearwhere every corner smells of jasmine and the afternoons stretch out to the rhythm of the siesta.
Ojén: the best-kept secret of the Sierra de las Nieves

Only 10 km from Marbella you will find Ojénone of the most unknown and surprising villages in the area. Its natural surroundings make it a paradise for hikers. It is also known for its liquor and its Andalusian traditions.
Traveller's tip: Don't miss the Mirador del Corzo viewpoint and the Museo del Molino.
More charming villages near Marbella
Istán: the spring of the Costa del Sol

This small village surrounded by water and greenery is situated only 15 km from Marbella. It is ideal to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and enjoy an authentic rural atmosphere. Its Moorish architecture and hiking trails make it perfect for the more adventurous.
Benahavís: a gastronomic paradise

Known as "the dining room of the Costa del Sol", Benahavís combines nature and haute cuisine. Its cobbled streets, its castle and its river make it one of the most special villages in Marbella to spend the day.
Casares: the white balcony of the Ronda Mountains


Casares looks like something out of a postcard. This white village, perched in the mountains, offers spectacular views and a historic quarter declared a Site of Cultural Interest. Its Moorish castle and the church of La Encarnación are not to be missed.
Live the experience with Visitanddo.com's excursions.


Discovering the charming villages near Marbella is even easier with the excursions organised by Visitanddo.com,. Here are some recommended options:
Excursion to Mijas, Marbella and Puerto Banús
- Includes transport from Malaga and the Costa del Sol
- Stops in Mijas Pueblo, Marbella Old Town and Puerto Banús
- Free time for exploring and shopping
- Visit to the CAC Mijas and Muscatel wine tasting.
White villages route: Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas
Another ideal option if you want to extend your route is the excursion to Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegastwo of Andalusia's most iconic villages. Although they are not next to Marbella, they are perfect for a full-day getaway. An ideal excursion for lovers of Andalusian history and architecture. Ronda, with its famous Puente Nuevo bridge and hanging houses, and Setenil, with its rock-hewn houses, will leave you speechless.
Excursion to Nerja and Frigiliana: between sea and mountains
Discover the contrast between the white village of Frigilianaconsidered to be one of the most beautiful in Spain, and the coastal views of NerjaFamous for its Balcón de Europa and its caves. A perfect combination of nature, history and Andalusian culture.
- Departure from Malaga and the Costa del Sol
- Free time in Frigiliana and Nerja
Our tours include a guide, guided tours and free time for you to explore at your own pace.
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Excursion in Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas from Malaga€33,00Rated 4.85 out of 5 based on 152 customer ratings
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Excursion Nerja and Frigiliana from Malaga and from Costa del Sol€33,00Rated 4.84 out of 5 based on 98 customer ratings
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Excursion to Marbella and Mijas from Malaga and Costa del Sol€38,00Rated 4.82 out of 5 based on 93 customer ratings
Whether it be Mijas or a route to the serranía de Rondaevery outing is an opportunity to connect with the most authentic Andalusia.
You may also be interested in: Day trips from Marbella
Explore Marbella and all that surrounds it. If you want to make the most of your stay in this jewel of the Costa del Sol, we suggest you discover the incredible destinations you can visit on a day trip.
Here are the day trips from Marbella available at Visitanddo.com:
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Excursion to Morocco from Malaga and from Costa del Sol€100,00Rated 4.72 out of 5 based on 111 customer ratings
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Caminito del Rey tickets with guided tour and shuttle bus from El Chorro€35,00Rated 4.96 out of 5 based on 45 customer ratings
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Excursion to Gibraltar from Malaga and Costa del Sol€33,00Rated 4.69 out of 5 based on 605 customer ratings
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Excursion to Gibraltar and Dolphin Sightseeing by Boat from Malaga€59,00Rated 4.85 out of 5 based on 133 customer ratings