Marbella has Spain’s highest average hotel prices in 2024

by Lorraine Williamson
Marbella hotel prices

Marbella has once again confirmed its status as Spain’s most exclusive tourist destination, recording the highest average hotel price in the country. According to the latest Barometer report by Cushman & Wakefield and STR, the average cost of a hotel room in Marbella reached €303.4 per night in 2024—an 8.2% increase from the previous year.

This figure places Marbella well ahead of other popular destinations, such as the Balearic Islands (€194.9), Barcelona (€187.8), and Madrid (€170.8). The city also leads in revenue per available room (RevPAR), a key industry profitability metric, at €201.28, surpassing Barcelona (€146.44) and the Balearic Islands (€133.29).

According to Javier Hernández, vice-president of the Association of Hotel Owners on the Costa del Sol (Aehcos), Marbella’s high hotel prices are a reflection of the quality, category, and exclusivity of its accommodation, with more than half of its hotels classified as four- and five-star establishments.

Why is Marbella so expensive?

Marbella’s reputation as a luxury destination has been decades in the making. Since the 1970s, it has been known as a playground for the wealthy, attracting celebrities, royals, and high-net-worth individuals from around the world. This status is reinforced by the high concentration of premium hotels, fine dining establishments, designer shopping, and world-class golf courses.

Of the 55 hotels registered with Aehcos, 19 are four-star and 9 are five-star, making Marbella one of the most exclusive hospitality markets in Spain.

Marbella is more than just luxury

Beyond its luxury appeal, Marbella boasts a unique natural setting that makes it one of Spain’s most attractive destinations.

  • 320+ days of sunshine: Marbella benefits from one of the best climates in Europe, with over 320 sunny days per year, making it a year-round destination.
  • Stunning beaches: The city’s 27 km of coastline feature 24 beaches, ranging from lively, resort-backed stretches to more secluded coves. Many of these beaches are Blue Flag-certified for their cleanliness and facilities.
  • La Concha mountain: Overlooking Marbella, the iconic La Concha mountain is part of the Sierra Blanca range. It not only provides stunning views but also plays a key role in Marbella’s microclimate, shielding it from strong winds and extreme weather.

A rich history and cultural heritage

Marbella is not just a modern luxury destination—it also has a rich history dating back to the Phoenicians, Romans, and Moors.

  • Roman influence: Remnants of Marbella’s past can be seen in the Roman Villa of Río Verde and the Las Bóvedas Roman Baths, both dating back nearly 2,000 years.
  • Moorish legacy: The historic Old Town (Casco Antiguo) is a reminder of Marbella’s Moorish heritage, with its narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings, and charming plazas, including the famous Plaza de los Naranjos (Orange Square).
  • Luxury and tradition: While Puerto Banús is known for its superyachts and designer boutiques, Marbella’s Old Town offers a glimpse into Andalucian tradition, blending the old with the new.

Málaga leads in hotel occupancy

While Marbella dominates in hotel pricing, Málaga recorded the highest hotel occupancy rate in Spain at 83.9%, followed by:

  • Valencia: 81.1%
  • Canary Islands: 79.4%

Marbella itself saw a 4% increase in occupancy, part of a broader trend in Andalucía, where demand for accommodation is growing. The rising popularity of Málaga, fuelled by its cultural attractions and limited hotel supply, is contributing to the region’s overall tourism boom.

The future of Spain’s luxury hotel market

Marbella’s standing as Spain’s most expensive hotel destination is unlikely to change. The city’s blend of natural beauty, rich history, and high-end tourism ensures it remains one of the country’s most desirable places to visit.

Meanwhile, Málaga’s strong occupancy rates and increasing visitor numbers could see further hotel investment, potentially reshaping the balance of Andalucía’s hospitality market in the years to come.

For now, Marbella continues to set the standard for luxury travel in Spain, with hotel prices reflecting its elite status among global destinations.

Also read: Marbella receives the award for best European destination 2024

You may also like