The reputation of Marbella today as an international luxury holiday resort is only partly correct, having in mind the very qualities and character of this charming small city.

The old part of Marbella has survived many centuries, which can be noticed in the architectural character. A labyrinth of narrow streets and tiny squares surround the Orange square and the majestic main church "Iglesia de la Encarnación" where bougainvillaea and geraniums add their colourful counterpoint to blazing white lime washed facades and the noble ochre of the worn stones of the once powerful Moslem castle.

In the very heart of the Old Town is the Plaza de los Naranjos (Orange tree square) which was constructed in the 16th century by clearing the maze of Moorish alleyways that formed their 'medina'. There are, however, still many narrow streets in the vicinity of this famous square where it is easy to imagine a Kasbah life such as one sees in a place like Tangier.

By contrast, Puerto Banús, the Jet-Set harbour of Marbella, is the place where you can find the most impressive boats, boutiques, pubs and a wide selection of the most different restaurants. It is a good place for shopping, relax, enjoying a nice dinner and having one or two drinks in one of its many bars, pubs and discotheques – Spanish nights are long!