Buying Property on the Costa del Sol: City Guide (2026)

Prices, lifestyle and the best areas to buy property this year

Having lived on the Costa del Sol for over nine years, raising two children here, I have experienced the entire process of relocating from scratch, including finding schools, understanding the property market and getting to know each area.

Over the years, I’ve helped many international buyers purchase property here, and I’ve learned that each city on the Costa del Sol has its own unique character. Some are perfect for investors, some for families and some for retirement and lifestyle living.

Below is a simple guide to the main locations where we help buyers invest.

1. Marbella

Marbella, the luxury capital of the Costa del Sol, is renowned for its glamorous lifestyle, golf resorts and international community. Areas such as Puerto Banús attract visitors from around the world with their luxury yachts, designer boutiques, beach clubs and lively nightlife. The city offers a variety of luxury properties, including villas, beachfront apartments and gated communities.

Marbella has a lively atmosphere, excellent restaurants and beach clubs, and a year-round programme of activities. It attracts entrepreneurs, high-net-worth individuals and international buyers seeking a prestigious lifestyle.

Personally, I find Marbella overwhelming at times, and if you’re not into luxury, you might not like it. However, it’s a great place to impress someone — why not host a private pool party? Or how about dancing all night? All night! But I’m 36 now. I have a family and a completely different life now.

Marbella has long been a popular destination among international celebrities and high-profile buyers. Notable figures associated with property or long-term residences in the area include Antonio Banderas, who owns properties in Marbella and the nearby city of Málaga, as well as global stars such as George Clooney, Eva Longoria and football legend Cristiano Ronaldo.

Best for: Investors, luxury buyers and lifestyle investors.

Property types to consider: Luxury villas, new developments, and premium beachfront apartments.

2. Estepona

We considered moving from Benalmádena to Estepona a couple of times.

It’s a flat area that is super child-friendly and has amazing beaches. The things that put us off are the distance to the airport and the lack of a train connection to Málaga, like the C1 train we have here.

Estepona has become one of the fastest-growing towns on the Costa del Sol. Its beautifully renovated old town, flower-filled streets and modern beachfront promenade give it a charming yet modern feel.

The person primarily responsible for Estepona’s development is the current mayor, José María García Urbano.

He is widely credited with transforming the town. He led an ambitious urban renewal programme that pedestrianised the historic centre, reduced municipal debt, and invested heavily in public spaces. These changes have made the town one of the most attractive and fastest-growing areas on the Costa del Sol.

The city attracts many international families and second-home buyers thanks to its new developments, golf courses and more peaceful surroundings compared to Marbella.

Best for: Investors, families and second-home buyers.

Property types to consider: New off-plan developments and modern apartments near the beach.

3. Mijas

Mijas offers a blend of traditional Andalusian charm and expanding residential areas, particularly around La Cala de Mijas, a location that has grown in popularity among international buyers.

I love the beaches and green fields around Mijas, but if I had to walk up these hills with three children, I wouldn’t lie — it would be challenging! If I were choosing an apartment in Mijas, I would also avoid areas near the A7 and AP7 roads due to the noise. One or two buildings between you and the roads is usually a good place to live. The buildings are designed to minimise noise, but depending on the wind direction, you may still hear background noise from cars, although it won’t be loud. Make sure you’re in the middle — that’s the best area. It’s not too high up the hills, it’s not noisy, and it’s closer to the beaches.

Another important thing to mention is that there are two parts to Mijas: Mijas Pueblo and Mijas Costa. Mijas Pueblo is located above the AP7 motorway and far from the beaches. Mijas Costa, on the other hand, is located on the coast, and La Cala de Mijas is part of it.

The atmosphere here is relaxed and residential, with golf courses, beaches and many new developments. It’s popular with Northern European buyers looking for a quieter lifestyle, but who still want to be close to Marbella and Fuengirola.

Best for: Families, investors and golf lovers.

Property types to consider: Off-plan developments, townhouses and apartments in golf resorts.

4. Fuengirola

Fuengirola is one of the most vibrant and pedestrian-friendly cities on the Costa del Sol. It boasts a long beachfront promenade, a large marina area and plenty of restaurants, not to mention a direct train connection to Málaga Airport.

To me, Fuengirola is a cross between Benalmádena and Marbella. It’s super well connected and has everything you need. It’s less posh than Marbella and more accessible than Benalmádena, so I would say it’s suitable for everyone. However, if you are looking to invest, just check the new regulatory measures on short-term rentals. The fact that Fuengirola is the last stop on the C1 line, with direct services to Málaga and Málaga Airport (AGP), makes it one of the most popular destinations.

There are many Brits, people from Finland, big Swedes community and of course Germans.

Thanks to its accessibility and lively atmosphere, Fuengirola attracts both tourists and long-term residents, creating strong demand for rentals.

Best for: Investors, holiday rentals and lifestyle buyers.

Property types to consider: Beachfront apartments and centrally located resale properties.

5. Benalmádena

I personally live in Benalmádena, which is a fantastic area for families. The city offers a mix of residential neighbourhoods, marina life and nature. One of the most popular spots is the beautiful Parque de La Paloma, which has lakes, animals and walking paths.

There are also golf courses and amazing sports facilities, such as indoor pools, skate parks, and even ice rinks.

Another highlight is the Benalmádena Cable Car, which takes you to the top of Mount Calvario, where you can enjoy incredible views. The area also boasts international schools and sports facilities, as well as a train connection to Málaga.

So, if you want to take a direct train to Málaga, the airport or Fuengirola, Benalmádena is the place to be!

The community is also amazing! Here in Benalmádena, I meet people from all over the world every day, including Germans, Swedes and Danes.

Best for: Families, pensioners and those looking for long-term accommodation.

Property types to consider: Apartments with sea views and residential developments.

6. Torremolinos

Torremolinos is one of the most dynamic and multicultural cities on the Costa del Sol. Historically known for its nightlife and beach clubs, the city has also undergone major regeneration in recent years.

Torremolinos is extremely LGBTQ+ friendly, and is renowned for its clubs and cabarets. When I first arrived on the Costa del Sol, I lived in Torremolinos for about a month. Yes, it’s nice, but if I were to choose a place to relax and use my property frequently, I would carefully research the neighbourhood. I would check the cars around, how people are dressed in the morning and the local cafés – these are things we see as realtors on a daily basis.

The city is now popular with young professionals, remote workers and investors looking for properties close to the beach and Málaga airport.

Best for: Investors, short-term rentals, young buyers.

Property types to consider: Renovated apartments and smaller investment properties.

7. Sotogrande

Eh, Sotogrande… It feels like you’re in a tropical country, but it’s perfectly developed with wide streets, gated communities where children play in the streets, palm trees, golf courses and large houses.

Sotogrande is ideal for those who want a prestigious property but prefer to keep a low profile away from the crowds.

Sotogrande is one of the most exclusive residential areas in southern Spain. It is renowned for its marina, polo clubs and world-class golf courses, including the renowned Valderrama Golf Club.

The atmosphere here is calm and elegant, with an international vibe, and it attracts buyers looking for privacy and a luxurious lifestyle.

In Sotogrande, I met sellers and owners from all over the world, including the US, Germany, France and Morocco.

Best for: Luxury buyers, families and long-term investors.

Property types to consider: Luxury villas, marina apartments and golf resort properties.

Final Thoughts

The Costa del Sol offers a wide variety of locations and property types, depending on your goals.

• Luxury investment: Marbella and Sotogrande
• Growth areas: Estepona and Mijas
• Rental opportunities: Fuengirola and Torremolinos
• Family lifestyle: Benalmádena and Estepona

When buying property here, choosing the right location is often the most important decision.

If you are considering investing in property on the Costa del Sol, I can help you understand the local market and find the right opportunity to meet your needs.

My name is Izidor, and I assist international buyers purchase property on the Costa del Sol.