ibis Cartagena Marbella

The ibis Cartagena Marbella is the sensible budget choice for travellers who want a clean, predictable room and a sea view at a fraction of old-town prices. The hotel stands on Avenida Santander in the Marbella district, the seafront road that runs north from the walled city towards the airport, and it has around 180 rooms. Rooms follow the familiar ibis design: compact at about 18 square metres, with a comfortable bed, air conditioning, a work desk and a modern shower, in double, double-plus-single and twin layouts. There is no pool, but the Pasta and Grill restaurant on the second floor has views over the Caribbean, the lounge bar is open around the clock, and free parking is included. Marbella Beach is a couple of minutes’ walk away, though it is better for a seafront stroll than for swimming. The walled city is about three kilometres away, roughly six minutes by taxi or a long walk along the sea. It suits budget travellers, road-trippers with a car and anyone on an early flight.

Location and getting around: Avenida Santander links the old town with the airport, so the hotel is handy for both. Taxis to the Clock Tower take around six minutes outside rush hour, and the walk along the seafront takes about half an hour, best done in the cooler evening. The neighbourhood is residential, with local restaurants and shops nearby.

The rooms: all rooms are around eighteen square metres, which is small but well planned. Ask for a sea-facing room on a higher floor for the view and less traffic noise from the avenue below.

Who it suits: budget travellers, couples who plan to be out all day, and drivers who need free parking. Families with small children will find rooms tight and no pool, so the Hyatt or OSH may suit them better.

Good to know: breakfast is a buffet for an extra charge. The restaurant can seat about 78 people and has sea views, and the 24-hour bar is useful for late arrivals. Ibis rates are flexible and often among the lowest in the city.