So, the question has come up during planning.

If you had to choose Malaga or Marbella for 2 nights, which would it be?

This is for 3 lovely women looking to maybe hit the beach, do some shopping and go to some nightclubs.

Could they do Mallorca instead? The nightlife seems to be one of the main attractions. It has the beaches and the shopping. It would be a ferry ride instead of ground. It seems to be a real mecca for the party crowd. Is that right?

Ibiza and Mallorca will be a better combination of beach,shopping and nightclubs than Malaga and Marbella.

But as can only choose one, from your choices will take Marbella.

You've told us they only have 7 days from arrival in Barcelona, It would be a big help if you could give the exact arrival/departure dates as dependent on time of year there may be more practical options.

I'd choose Málaga City. Marbella is too fancy-schmancy for me, the prices will be much higher, the beaches more exclusive, and the hotels more expensive. If you're into all that, then choose Marbella. If you want better prices, decent beaches, and a more Spanish-feel, choose Málaga City. In Marbella you'll have a higher percentage of rich foreigners. Plus, there are quite a few historical places to visit in Málaga City.

Saludos, MadridMan