Ah, Christmas! Remember the anticipation of December during your childhood? Those days filled with nativity rehearsals, crafting wishlists, and the delight of advent calendar chocolates, yet somehow Santa's arrival seemed an eternity away. Do you also feel like Christmas sneaks up quicker each year?

In Marbella, Christmas invites you to slow down and savour each moment. The town transforms, draped in a glittering holiday cloak, brimming with joy and celebration. As you wander its enchanting streets, you're greeted by twinkling lights and the echoes of laughter.

 

Let's embark on a journey through Marbella's magical Christmas offerings.

 


Christmas at Anantara Villa Padierna, Benahavís

Indulge in the Christmas experience at Anantara Villa Padierna Palace and get a memorable and luxurious holiday stay, combining fine dining, relaxation, and festive joy. You don't want to miss their spectacular 9-metre Christmas tree!

  • Gala Christmas Eve Dinner: Guests can enjoy a spectacular gala dinner on Christmas Eve at La Veranda restaurant, featuring the season's flavour-filled delicacies.
  • Christmas Day Special Buffet: A leisurely buffet is available on Christmas Day for guests to savour.
  • Anantara Spa: Special festive treats are offered at Anantara Spa, perfect for unwinding during the holiday season.
  • Accommodation Offers: The package includes up to 15% savings on accommodation, a two-night stay in a Deluxe Room, daily buffet breakfast for two, and complimentary late checkout on December 25th until 4.00 PM​​.

Check here for the full program of festivities at Anantara Villa Padierna 

 


Christmas at Marbella Club

Marbella Club Hotel thus stands as an ultimate destination for families this winter, offering a blend of luxurious experiences and festive activities that create cherished holiday moments.

During the festive period, Marbella Club Hotel offers a range of luxurious and enchanting experiences:

  • Gala Dinners: The hotel hosts magical gala dinners in their Clubhouse environment, including Christmas Eve dinner (€345 per person), Christmas Day lunch (€360 per person), and a grand New Year's Eve dinner (€1250 per person)​​.
  • Festive Programme: Founded by Prince Alfonso von Hohenlohe, Marbella Club has a rich history of attracting guests worldwide. This festive season, they present a program full of charming experiences and gastronomic delights. The program includes Christmas cocktail and canapé making, creating festive table decor, and more, promising a season of cheer and timeless glamour​​.
  • Gastronomic Journey and Galas: The hotel offers a curated journey of culinary experiences, led by their three main galas. These include warming and refined winter dishes such as porcini and truffle cream soup, sole paupiette with lobster and caviar sauce, and beef tournedó with fondant potato and Chasseur sauce​​.
  • Special Buffet and Private Celebrations: At The Beach Club, special editions of the traditional Grand Buffet are available, accompanied by live music throughout the season. For more intimate celebrations, private spaces like La Bodega or the Tomato Garden are available for high-spirited festivities​​.
  • Workshops for All Ages: Marbella Club offers a comprehensive series of workshops throughout the season, catering to all age groups. Adults can enjoy Christmas cocktail-making and the Champagne Special Club, while children can engage in activities like gingerbread making, treasure hunts, and Christmas games. Additionally, families can participate in floral arrangements, table decoration-making, or tapas and canapé making classes​​.

Check here for the full program of festive activities at Marbella Club 

 


The Sound of Christmas with Massimo Giordano

As Christmas nears, everyone longs for miracles. In mid-December, Estepona will host a beautiful event: "The Sound of Christmas" opera evening. Experience the magical atmosphere of celebration, kindness, and wonder!

On December 15th, the stage of Teatro Auditorio Felipe VI will feature renowned Italian opera singer Massimo Giordano, performing beloved Christmas arias and songs. A world-class artist, Massimo has graced stages like the Paris National Opera, Berlin Staatsoper, Metropolitan Opera, and La Scala. In Estepona, he will enchant the audience with his magnificent singing.

The evening's repertoire includes beautiful Christmas arias, melodies, and songs, all masterfully performed by Massimo Giordano, accompanied by La Scala's principal pianist Nelson Calzi. Special guest, soprano Esther Kandinova, will join Massimo, presenting Christmas arias, operetta excerpts, and festive duets.


Festive Atmosphere and Decorations in Marbella's Old Town

Marbella is adorned with beautiful decorations and twinkling lights, especially in the Old Town. A leisurely stroll through this area is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit and appreciating the charming Christmas decorations


Christmas Markets in Plaza de los Naranjos

 

The holiday spirit is in full swing at the Christmas markets in Marbella and Puerto Banus. These markets, particularly popular in Alameda Park and a smaller one in Puerto Banus, offer unique gifts, handcrafted ornaments, and delicious local treats​


Santa Claus Arrivals making an entrance via... helicopter

For a unique twist, Santa Claus makes his grand entrance at Marbella Port via boat and at La Cañada Shopping Center via helicopter. Additionally, the Marbella Town Hall constructs a Father Christmas house in Alameda Park, where children can meet Santa and mail their letters.


Live Music and Cultural Events

The Plaza de Los Naranjos hosts a light and sound show featuring large trumpet-playing angel decorations. Free concerts, processions, and other activities take place in the Old Town, enriching the festive atmosphere​​. 

Click here to find more information.