Car Rental Marbella

Driving in this part of Spain is a pleasure with stunning coastal drives peppered with charming towns to stop off in. There are three types of main road in Spain. Carreteras nacionales are the toll-free national roads with a speed limit of 55mph (90km/h) and prefixed with ‘N’.

Autovias are toll-free two-lane highways with a limit of 62mph (100km/h) and prefixed with ‘A’, while autopistas are tolled highways with a speed limit of 75mph (120km/h) and prefixed with ‘AP’ or ‘E’.

Driving is on the right and you should stick to the right-hand lane unless overtaking. Note that though toll roads can be costly, they are usually much quieter than toll-free roads.

The main routes along the Costa del Sol are the A7 and the AP7 toll road. Running through the center of Marbella is the N340, which branches off the A7 at the western end of the city by Puerto Banús and meets the A7 again at the eastern end of town. The AP7 runs along the northern outskirts of the city.

Finding a parking a spot in the center is pretty straightforward. There are large underground parking lots, such as the one on Avenida del Mar, ideal for exploring the Old Town. On-street parking is also available, though time-limited - up to 2 hours on blue lines and up to 5 hours on green lines.

Driving in and around Marbella is a lot more relaxed than in larger cities but it’s still best to be aware of the rules of the road. Mobile phone use while driving is illegal, and seat belts must be worn by all passengers and the driver. Unlike in the US, you can’t turn right on a red light at a junction, even if the way is clear – you must wait for a green light.

Marbella boasts over 320 days of sunshine a year, and its alluring beaches, busy seaside promenade lined with classy boutiques and restaurants, and atmospheric old town cater for every taste.

Sun, sea and sand

A trip to the beach is a must, no matter what time of year you visit Marbella. Lying within a 15-mile stretch of Marbella coastline are no fewer than 23 sandy beaches. Each one has its own distinct appeal – from hip and happening Playa de la Nueva Andalucía, west of Puerto Banús, to the family-friendly Playa Cabopino, a 10-minute drive to the east of Marbella, next to Cabopino harbor.

All of Marbella’s beaches are blessed with fine golden sand and clear, calm waters and all have their share of traditional beach bars, or chiringuitos, where you can enjoy a cool drink and local Mediterranean cuisine.

Stretching along the waterfront – all the way from Marbella to Puerto Banús and beyond – is the Paseo Marítimo, the city’s attractive beachside promenade. An evening stroll here, taking in the views and soaking up the ambience, is an essential part of visiting Marbella.

Old Town charm

Marbella’s picturesque Old Town, or casco antiguo, is a delight to explore. North of Avenida Ricardo Soriano, the main street running through the town, is a maze of narrow, cobbled streets lined with boutique stores, art galleries, bars and restaurants, many with balconies decorated with geraniums. Stop for a break in beautiful Plaza de los Naranjos (orange tree square) and enjoy a coffee in one of the traditional cafes.

A short walk away, across Avenida Ricardo Soriano and through La Alameda Park towards the beach, you’ll find the Avenida del Mar. It’s home to a number of original Salvador Dali sculptures to admire.

Shopping heaven

Marbella is great for retail therapy – from well-known chains to the quirky little boutiques that pack the old town’s winding streets.

For some serious fashion shopping, head to Puerto Banús. Here you’ll find the flagship El Corte Inglés department store, as well as an array of upmarket designer stores, including Armani, Versace, Robert Cavalli and Louis Vuitton.

These all overlook the glitzy marina where the rich and famous moor their luxury yachts while they shop in the high-end stores, browse the art galleries and hang out in the many coffee shops, bars and restaurants.

The tapas trail

One of Marbella’s greatest pleasures is enjoying the fantastic food in one of its many restaurants. A good way to sample typical Spanish fare is to pop into a traditional tapas bar or restaurant as you wander round the winding streets of the old town. Order a selection of smaller dishes, with superlative olives, anchovies, tortilla and peppers, or opt for a racione of jamon.

One of the very best places is Marbella Patio, housed in a 16^th century building next to the castle walls. Its superb tapas has won local awards and offers excellent value. For some great seafood and paella while watching the sun set, head to one of the many chiringuitos on the town’s beaches.

Here in Marbella, live moves at a different pace. Make sure you make the most of your visit to this gorgeous part of Spain with car rental in Marbella.