Best Places to Stay in Marbella This Winter
Winter in Marbella is lovely. The crowds thin out, the sun softens, and everything feels more relaxed. People often ask us where they should stay at this time of year, and the truth is that it depends on the kind of trip you want. Some people want a hotel where everything is taken care of. Others want something smaller and more local. Some want a villa where they can live like they are at home.
We thought we would put everything we normally recommend in one place so you can get a feel for what suits you. Here are the places we genuinely like and the areas that work well in winter.
1. Resorts when you want an easy stay
These are great if you want comfort and convenience. You can wander to breakfast, book a spa treatment, read by the pool or head out for dinner without overthinking.
Villa Padierna (Anantara Villa Padierna Palace)
Villa Padierna always feels peaceful. It has grand architecture, a huge art collection and the grounds make you slow down without even noticing. There are three golf courses, a well-known spa and lots of quiet corners if you want time to switch off. It sits between Marbella and Estepona, so you get privacy with good access to both towns.
Marbella Club Hotel
This is a classic for a reason. The grounds are beautiful, the breakfast terrace is one of our favourite winter spots, and the beach is right there for morning walks. The whole place has a gentle charm. Families love it, but it still feels calm.
Puente Romano and Nobu Hotel Marbella
If you want something livelier, Puente Romano has that atmosphere. There are restaurants everywhere, tennis courts, little pathways through gardens and plenty going on even in winter. Nobu sits inside the same complex but has a more grown-up feel with a quieter edge. You get the energy when you want it and a calmer space when you don’t.
The Flag
The Flag is straightforward and modern, and tends to work well for longer stays. You get a small kitchen, a good workspace, and everything is clean and simple. It is the kind of place that makes settling in easy.
SO Sotogrande
SO Sotogrande is a little further out, but it has a lovely sense of space. There are countryside views, a good spa and a relaxed atmosphere that makes winter days feel slow in the best way. Ideal if you want proper calm with good design.
2. Boutique hotels with a local feel
These are perfect if you like being close to restaurants and want to explore on foot. They are smaller, more personal and often full of character.
La Fonda Heritage Hotel
Right in Marbella Old Town and beautifully restored. The moment you step outside, you are in narrow streets, warm colours and little plazas. Winter evenings in the Old Town have a cosy atmosphere, and you feel part of the neighbourhood straight away.
Hotel Lima
Hotel Lima is smart, simple and really well located. You can walk to the beach or into town within minutes, and the rooftop is great on sunny days. It is comfortable without being over the top, which is exactly what a lot of people want.
The Farm Lodge
This one has personality. It is relaxed, a bit bohemian and attached to The Farm’s courtyard restaurant, which always has a nice atmosphere. It feels warm and personal and works well for people who want something with soul rather than formality.
Alcuzcuz Boutique Hotel
Set in the hills near Benahavís, Alcuzcuz feels peaceful from the moment you arrive. The views are lovely, the air is fresh, and the whole place has a calm rhythm. It is great for slow mornings, good books and evenings by the fire.
Casa Veracruz
Casa Veracruz feels more like staying in a welcoming home. There is an Andalusian character in every corner, and the atmosphere is very gentle. If you want something small and friendly, this one is perfect.
3. Villas and longer stays for more space
If you want privacy or you are staying for a while, a villa or apartment can make winter in Marbella feel very natural. You can cook, sit on the terrace, work from home and settle into a real routine.
Marbella areas
Golden Mile and beachfront
This is great if you want to be near the sea. Walking in winter is lovely, and you have lots of cafes and restaurants in easy reach.
Sierra Blanca and Cascada de Camoján
These areas sit higher up with wide views and plenty of privacy. They are quiet, peaceful and ideal for longer stays or families who want space.
Nueva Andalucía
Also known as Golf Valley. It is leafy and calm with big villas and plenty of room to spread out. You are close to everything, but you still get that tucked-away feeling.
Benahavís areas
La Quinta, Los Arqueros, El Herrojo, La Zagaleta
These areas sit in the hills with lovely scenery and fresh air. Evenings feel slow and peaceful, and there are some great restaurants nearby. It is perfect if you enjoy nature and quiet nights.
Estepona areas
New Golden Mile and Estepona East
Modern developments, beach proximity and a calm atmosphere. This suits anyone who likes having space and easy access to both Marbella and Estepona.
Old Town perimeter
This part of Estepona is colourful and relaxed. The townhouses have character, and you can walk almost everywhere, which makes day-to-day life easy.
Before you book, a few things to think about
1. Location really shapes your trip
Ask yourself how you want your mornings to feel. If you like walking to coffee, pick somewhere central. If you want calm, the hills will suit you more.
2. Winter is mild, but check for proper heating
Ask about insulation, bedding and heating. A warm home makes winter mornings much nicer
3. Know who to contact
Hotels have teams. Villas have managers. Make sure you know your point of contact.
4. Travelling with kids
Ask about safety around pools, stairs and terraces. It is always worth checking.
5. Look at the practical details
Parking, access, nearby supermarkets and how easy it is to get around.
6. Read recent reviews
They tell you the most accurate story. Always worth a quick scan.
Need help choosing?
If you want a place that fits your style, your schedule and your plans, we can help. We can put together a shortlist for you and handle the booking process from start to finish. That way, you can just arrive and enjoy your winter here.
References:
Anantara Villa Padierna Palace. 2025. Overview and facilities. Available at: https://www.anantara.com/en/villa-padierna-marbella
Marbella Club Hotel. 2025. Property information. Available at: https://www.marbellaclub.com
Puente Romano Beach Resort. 2025. Resort guide. Available at: https://www.puenteromano.com
Nobu Hotel Marbella. 2025. Hotel overview. Available at: https://www.nobuhotels.com/marbella
SO Sotogrande. 2025. Wellness and facilities. Available at: https://so-hotels.com/sotogrande
Estepona Tourism Board. 2025. Area details. Available at: https://turismo.estepona.es
Benahavís Town Hall. 2025. Local information. Available at: https://www.benahavis.es/en