10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Marbella

Marbella Old Town is a medley of Renaissance-era buildings interconnected by narrow cobblestoned streets. While its flower-draped balconies and whitewashed walls shine during the day, it’s still worth going for a wander at night. Peak-season visitors will be pleased to hear the neighbourhood becomes far less crowded once the sun goes down.

Start your meanderings at Plaza de Naranjos, a gorgeous 15^th-century square named for its vibrant orange trees. Head to its southern edge to admire Ermita de Santiago, the city’s oldest church. Throughout Marbella’s Old Town, you’ll find an array of chic boutiques for late-night shopping and traditional churros vendors for a sweet treat.

Avenida del Mar is a great place to burn off some calories after dinnertime with a post-supper stroll. The scenic, palm tree-fringed promenade terminates at Playa de Venus, where there’s a small selection of Salvador Dali sculptures. Check out Parque de la Alameda on the northern end to admire its botanic gardens and the bubbling 18^th-century fountain.

Still keen to stretch your legs? Continue your walk onto the iconic Paseo Maritimo De Marbella. This long pedestrian-friendly boulevard straddles the Alboran Sea to afford breathtaking views. It’s equally pretty at night.

The prominent Banus Marina Mall is a great spot to indulge in some late-night shopping in Marbella. As is standard in Spain, most stores stay open until 10 pm, so you have plenty of time to shop and browse a vast range of high-end fashion outlets and cosmetic retailers inside the multi-level complex.

Across the road lies the enormous El Corte Inglés, Europe’s most famous department store chain. Another worthwhile shopping destination is La Cañada, which you’ll find north of Marbella Old Town. Framed by dramatic Andalusian mountains, the sprawling mall features a plethora of shops and a multi-screen cinema.

Visit Flamenco Ana Maria to see authentic Spanish dancing in an intimate, low-lit locale in Marbella. The homely, living room-like venue puts on regular flamenco shows, where costumed dancers twirl to soulful acoustic tunes. It’s neither a large nor lavish stage production – but that’s all part of the charm.

No food is served inside the venue, so fill your belly before you arrive. Get in early (15-20 minutes before showtime) to snag a good seat for the vibrant 2-hour show. A reasonably-priced entry fee applies, which includes your first drink.

Marbella Theatre (Teatro Ciudad de Marbella) is the city’s premiere live performance hall. Although it’s not as grandiose as Spanish stalwarts like Barcelona’s Liceo, the intimate little theatre offers a cosy ambience to catch an authentic live show. The rotating roster ranges from cabaret to comedy and kid-friendly magic gigs.

Excellent acoustics and passionate performances make for a memorable night out at Marbella Theatre. Non-Spanish speakers should know the shows run in the local tongue. Nonetheless, occasional concerts take place to overcome the language barrier. Tickets are available at the door and must be paid by credit card.

Hit Casino Marbella to play its amusing range of croupier-run table games. Spread over 3,500 square metres, the sizable boutique casino offers roulette, blackjack, poker, a sports betting arena, and plenty of slots. The longstanding Marbella institution has been operating since 1972. But don’t expect vintage decor because the neon-lit venue has been renovated with contemporary flair. 

You’ll find all your favourite drinks – including tangy cocktails – at the bar, and there’s a gourmet restaurant for late-night bites. Flamenco performances and live music shows occasionally feature during the busier summer months.

The Marbella Arena is the go-to venue for big-production events on the Costa del Sol. Formerly a bullfighting ring, the site has been converted into an open-air amphitheatre to host sports matches, concerts, and stage shows. Check their official website to see what’s on and book your ticket early for well-known acts.

Although it’s busiest during summer, the arena erects a golf ball-shaped dome to keep patrons cosy in the cooler months. A broad selection of food and drink venues opens during event days to enhance the festive vibe. Top-notch acoustics, reasonable prices, and seamless organisation keep local attendees coming back for more.

Hit La Catarina, the city’s most celebrated brewery, for a frothy artisanal pint. Despite residing 25 minutes outside the centre, the place packs out on weekend evenings. Craft beer enthusiasts come in droves to taste the best beer in town.

Eight delectable, hop-infused brews are available, from amber IPAs to heady Cascadian dark ales. Wine lovers can choose from a solid selection of Spanish varieties, and there are plenty of tasty morsels if you fancy a nibble. The warehouse-style venue has been adorned with leafy ferns and draping vines to set a homely scene.

Astral Bar Coctelería is the Andalusian region’s most iconic oceanfront cocktail bar. The boisterous galleon ship venue straddles Puerto Banús Beach, adopting a fun-filled nautical theme. Oddball antiques adorn the rich wood deck interior, while rope-festooned masts enhance the maritime vibe.

The ship-themed setting is quite quirky, but the place pulls in a crowd for its delicious fruity cocktails. A master mixologist blends each citrus-infused creation from freshly squeezed juice and then decorates them with exotic fruity garnishing. Unsure what to order? Regulars highly recommend the daiquiri.

Luxurious Trocadero Arena is a buzzing Marbella beach club attracting a well-heeled clientele. While many revellers come to sip cocktails in the sun, the joint heaves until well after midnight in summer. Ostentatious Mediterranean-themed decor and a picturesque beachfront setting make it an idyllic (if pricey) place to imbibe.

The rustic luxury establishment offers a well-rounded Mediterranean menu and an impressive selection of drinks. Head east to the whitewashed Nikki Beach for more glamorous beach club action. Don’t leave it too late, though, because this one is more of a daytime venue.