The Spanish coastal city of Marbella is brimming with accommodation options, and among them are plenty of affordable options offering comfort and charm for budget-friendly prices.
(Photo: Ona Alanda Club / Courtesy Booking.com)
A glamorous coastal gem on Spain’s Costa del Sol, Marbella boasts a vibrant city centre, as well as the more touristic areas of Puerto Banús marina, plus charming surrounding districts like San Pedro and the Golden Mile. With its sunny weather, idyllic beaches, and bustling nightlife, the city has long been a favourite destination for visitors from around the world. While it’s famous for high-end resorts, Marbella also offers a range of cheaper hotels that won’t break the bank. We’ve picked out three of the best below.
Ona Alanda Club
On a stretch of Spanish coastline known for its swanky resorts, this 4-star aparthotel represents a refreshingly affordable – and unapologetically less flashy – alternative. Positioned just a short drive from Marbella’s bustling city centre and the glitzy Puerto Banús, it hits that sweet spot of being near to all the action but without the constant hum of tourists. The beaches and attractions, like the Golden Mile, are within easy reach, but it’s also tucked away enough to offer a bit of peace and quiet.
Inside, the apartments are spacious and well-kitted out, so you won’t be roughing it here. There’s a swimming pool that positively compels you to sink into its inviting waters with a cocktail in hand, plus a fitness centre for when you want to shed some of those “carbs in Marbs”, to borrow a familiar phrase. With a family-friendly vibe and prices that will leave you something to spare, this is an ideal base offering a mix of comfort, style and total lack of pretension. From GBP 67 per night.
Ona Marbella Inn
(Photo: Ona Marbella Inn / Courtesy Booking.com)
Located just a short stroll from the beach and a 10-minute walk from the lively city centre, this 3-star hotel strikes a harmonious balance between convenience and consummate tranquility. Promising a relaxed, no-fuss stay, the hotel features spacious, practical rooms complete with kitchenettes for a bit of home-cooking if you’re not feeling the tapas scene. Whether you’re after a quiet morning with a coffee or a night in after a busy day of exploring, the rooms offer a comfortable space to unwind.
As for amenities, there’s a lovely outdoor pool surrounded by loungers – ideal for soaking up the (almost) perpetually present Spanish sun or enjoying a refreshing dip – while the well-equipped fitness centre gives guests the chance to squeeze in a workout between beach visits or sightseeing adventures. But perhaps the best feature is the chilled, laid-back atmosphere of the hotel, which makes you feel instantly at ease from the moment you arrive. From GBP 52 per night.
Hotel El Faro
(Photo: Hotel El Faro / Courtesy Booking.com)
As with our other recommendations, this mid-range hotel is bang on the money for those who want to be just far enough from Marbella’s hustle and bustle but close enough to pop in whenever the mood strikes. The guest rooms are spacious and light, with all the modern amenities you need – plus, some rooms even come with balconies where you can enjoy the warm Mediterranean breeze and perhaps sneak a peek at the ocean.
When it comes to eating and drinking, you’re steps away from Marbella’s best spots for food and cocktails. But if you don’t fancy dining out, the hotel’s laid-back café has you covered with local delicacies to snack on. On top of that – quite literally – there’s a rooftop pool, where panoramic views of the city and sea await. There’s also a fitness centre and a cosy lounge to kick back in when the sun gets too much. From GBP 67 per night.
By Paul Joseph