The Costa del Sol has some of Spain’s best private healthcare — and if you’re an expat living near Marbella, knowing your options before you need them is essential. This guide covers every major private hospital within reach of Marbella: what they specialise in, how English-friendly they are, which insurers they accept, and what things cost if you’re paying out of pocket.
Note: This guide covers private hospitals only. For information on the public system, see our guide to Hospital Costa del Sol.
Key Takeaways
- HC Marbella is the go-to expat hospital — English-first, internationally focused, Golden Mile location.
- Quirónsalud Marbella is the most comprehensive private hospital on the coast, part of Spain’s largest private healthcare group.
- Vithas Xanit (Benalmádena) is the largest private hospital on the Costa del Sol — strong diagnostics and oncology.
- Hospiten Estepona serves the western coast with 24-hour emergency coverage.
- Clínica del Río (San Pedro) is a well-regarded smaller clinic popular with local expats.
- Spanish private health insurance (Sanitas, Adeslas, ASISA) costs €50–200/month and typically covers full private care with small copayments.
- Without insurance, expect €150–250 for consultations and €5,000–15,000+ for surgery.
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Why Go Private on the Costa del Sol?
Spain’s public healthcare is genuinely good — and if you’re registered on the padrón and contributing to social security, you’re entitled to use it. But there are real reasons expats often prefer private care:
- Language: Private hospitals in tourist areas staff English-speaking doctors as a matter of course. Public hospitals may not.
- Wait times: Specialist appointments in the public system can take weeks or months. Private gets you seen within days, often same-week.
- Choice of specialist: You pick your doctor, not the system.
- Facilities: Newer equipment, private rooms, and less administrative friction.
For many Marbella expats, a Spanish private health insurance policy at €100–150/month solves all of this — and costs less than a single specialist visit in the UK or US without coverage.
Private Hospitals Near Marbella: Full Directory
1. Quirónsalud Marbella
| Location | Avenida Severo Ochoa, Marbella (east of centre, near N-340) |
| Emergency | ✅ 24-hour A&E |
| English-speaking | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very good — international patient unit |
| Insurance accepted | Sanitas, Adeslas, ASISA, DKV, Cigna, most major European insurers |
Quirónsalud Marbella is a full-service private hospital and the most clinically complete facility on the western Costa del Sol. It’s part of the Quirón Salud group — the largest private healthcare company in Spain, with over 50 hospitals nationally. That matters: it means access to group-wide specialist networks, advanced diagnostics, and consistent care standards.
Specialties: Cardiology, oncology, orthopaedics, neurology, gynaecology, urology, ophthalmology, general surgery, plastic surgery, digestive medicine, and more. Full maternity unit. ICU capacity.
What it’s known for: Comprehensive care under one roof. If you need something complex or multi-disciplinary, this is where you come. The oncology department is particularly well-regarded, with full oncological surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy capabilities.
Costs without insurance:
- GP / general consultation: €90–130
- Specialist consultation: €150–250
- Basic surgery (hernia, appendix): €5,000–8,000
- Hip/knee replacement: €12,000–18,000
- Cardiac procedures: €15,000+
Phone: +34 952 774 200 | Web: quironsalud.com
2. HC Marbella (Hospital Clínica Marbella)
| Location | Calle Ventura del Mar, Golden Mile, Marbella |
| Emergency | ✅ 24-hour emergency service |
| English-speaking | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Exceptional — English is effectively the working language |
| Insurance accepted | BUPA International, AXA PPP, Cigna Global, Allianz Care, Sanitas, Adeslas + most international health insurers |
HC Marbella is the hospital most Marbella expats end up at — and for good reason. Built with the international community in mind, it functions almost like a private hospital transplanted from the UK or US and placed on the Golden Mile. English is spoken fluently by almost all staff, and the patient experience is calibrated for people accustomed to private healthcare abroad.
Specialties: Oncology (particularly strong), cardiology, orthopaedics, neurosurgery, ophthalmology, plastic and reconstructive surgery, gynaecology, internal medicine, and a dedicated international patient unit.
What it’s known for: International patients. HC Marbella attracts patients from the UK, Germany, Scandinavia, and the Gulf who specifically travel here for treatment. The oncology department has an international reputation. If English-language care is your priority, this is the default choice.
Costs without insurance:
- Specialist consultation: €150–220
- Emergency attendance: €200–400 (before treatment)
- Day surgery: €3,000–7,000 depending on procedure
- Oncology treatment: varies significantly by protocol
Good to know: HC Marbella has strong relationships with international insurance companies — if you have BUPA International, AXA Global, or Cigna, direct billing is typically straightforward here. Many UK expats find their insurer will approve treatment at HC Marbella faster than elsewhere.
Phone: +34 952 908 628 | Web: hcmarbella.com
3. Hospiten Estepona
| Location | Carretera Nacional 340, km 159, Estepona (west of San Pedro de Alcántara) |
| Emergency | ✅ 24-hour A&E |
| English-speaking | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Good — Hospiten group trains for international patients |
| Insurance accepted | Sanitas, Adeslas, ASISA, DKV, Cigna, travel insurance (EHIC accepted in emergency) |
Hospiten Estepona serves the western stretch of the Costa del Sol — if you’re based in Estepona, Sabinillas, Manilva, or Casares, this is your nearest private hospital with full emergency capability. It’s part of the Hospiten group, a Spanish private hospital chain with a strong presence in tourist-heavy coastal areas.
Specialties: Emergency medicine, general surgery, orthopaedics, gynaecology, internal medicine, traumatology, and paediatrics. Good diagnostic capacity including MRI and CT.
What it’s known for: Accessibility and reliability for western CdS residents. The 24-hour emergency service is genuinely well-staffed — not just a reception desk with a phone. Hospiten has built its reputation largely on handling tourist and expat emergencies efficiently.
Costs without insurance:
- Emergency consultation: €180–350
- Specialist consultation: €120–200
- Minor procedures: €1,500–4,000
Good to know: Hospiten Estepona works well with travel insurance companies, making it a reliable choice if you’re still in the process of setting up longer-term Spanish health cover. Staff are used to walking tourists and recent arrivals through their insurance paperwork.
Phone: +34 952 809 000 | Web: hospiten.com
4. Vithas Xanit International (Benalmádena)
| Location | Avenida de los Argonautas, Benalmádena (east of Marbella, between Fuengirola and Torremolinos) |
| Emergency | ✅ 24-hour emergency |
| English-speaking | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent — “International” in the name means it |
| Insurance accepted | Sanitas, Adeslas, ASISA, DKV, Cigna, BUPA International, AXA, Allianz, most EU insurers |
Vithas Xanit International is the largest private hospital on the entire Costa del Sol by bed count and specialist coverage. Located in Benalmádena — further east than Marbella but within 40 minutes — it’s particularly strong for residents of Fuengirola, Mijas Costa, and those who don’t mind the drive for specialist care.
Specialties: The full spectrum — cardiology (including catheterisation lab), oncology, neurosurgery, orthopaedics, ophthalmology, fertility, paediatrics, gynaecology, urology, vascular surgery, and an advanced diagnostics centre. One of the few private hospitals on the coast with a dedicated stroke unit.
What it’s known for: Scale and diagnostic capability. If you need complex investigations — PET scan, advanced MRI protocols, interventional cardiology — Vithas Xanit is often where you end up regardless of where you start. The oncology unit is among the best in the region.
International focus: The “International” in the name is earned. A significant proportion of patients are from northern Europe. Many consultants hold dual qualifications (Spanish and UK/German boards). Dedicated international patient coordinators help navigate appointments, billing, and insurance.
Costs without insurance:
- Specialist consultation: €150–250
- Full cardiac workup: €1,200–2,500
- Oncology assessment: €800–2,000 (before treatment)
- Major surgery: €8,000–20,000+ depending on procedure
Phone: +34 952 367 190 | Web: vithas.es/hospitales/xanit-international
5. Clínica del Río (San Pedro de Alcántara)
| Location | San Pedro de Alcántara, Marbella municipality |
| Emergency | ⚠️ Urgent care / minor emergencies — not full A&E |
| English-speaking | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Good — many expat patients, English-comfortable staff |
| Insurance accepted | Sanitas, Adeslas, ASISA, DKV — confirm specific policy before attending |
Clínica del Río is a well-regarded smaller private clinic serving San Pedro de Alcántara and the surrounding areas. It’s not a full hospital — no A&E, no ICU — but for consultations, diagnostics, and non-emergency procedures, it’s a popular and convenient choice for expats living in the San Pedro, Nueva Andalucía, and Puerto Banús areas.
Services: General medicine, specialist consultations, physiotherapy, minor procedures, blood tests and diagnostics, X-ray, and routine health checks. A good first port of call for non-urgent issues before deciding whether to go to a larger facility.
What it’s known for: Accessibility, reasonable wait times, and a patient base that’s heavily expat — so the staff are well-practised at handling international patients, insurance paperwork, and English-language communication.
Costs without insurance:
- GP consultation: €60–100
- Specialist consultation: €100–180
- Blood panel: €80–200 depending on tests
Good to know: For anything serious — chest pain, stroke symptoms, major trauma — go straight to Quirónsalud or HC Marbella. Clínica del Río is excellent for managed care, follow-ups, and the bulk of day-to-day medical needs.
Quick Comparison: Which Hospital for What?
| Hospital | Best for | Location | 24h A&E |
|---|---|---|---|
| HC Marbella | English-first care, oncology, international insurance | Golden Mile | ✅ |
| Quirónsalud Marbella | Comprehensive care, complex cases, full specialties | East Marbella | ✅ |
| Vithas Xanit | Advanced diagnostics, largest facility, east of Marbella | Benalmádena | ✅ |
| Hospiten Estepona | Western CdS, Estepona area, travel insurance | Estepona | ✅ |
| Clínica del Río | San Pedro area, routine consultations, day-to-day care | San Pedro | ⚠️ Urgent only |
Private Health Insurance in Spain: What You Need to Know
Most long-term expats on the Costa del Sol end up with Spanish private health insurance — either because they don’t qualify for the public system yet, or because the private experience is simply better for their needs. Here’s how it works.
The Main Insurers
Sanitas — the most recognisable name, partly owned by BUPA. Wide hospital network across Spain. English customer service available. Good for expats already familiar with BUPA products.
Adeslas — market leader in Spain by policy count. Very broad network, good pricing, popular with Spanish residents and expats alike. Often the best value for comprehensive cover.
ASISA — strong in Andalucía. Good network in the Málaga province. Slightly more Spanish-focused than Sanitas/Adeslas but solid value.
DKV — German-owned, popular with northern European expats. Good documentation in multiple languages. Efficient claims process.
Cigna — the main international insurer with strong Spanish hospital networks. Often the choice for expats who travel frequently or want global coverage with Spanish private access.
How Much Does It Cost?
| Age | Monthly Premium (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Under 40 | €50–80/month | Basic to comprehensive cover |
| 40–55 | €80–130/month | Most expats in this band |
| 55–65 | €130–180/month | Pre-existing conditions may add cost |
| 65+ | €150–250+/month | Compare carefully; some exclude over-65s |
The Copago System
Spanish private insurance typically uses a copago (co-payment) model rather than full reimbursement. You pay a small fixed fee per visit — usually €5–20 per consultation — and the insurer covers the rest. This keeps premiums low while still covering the bulk of costs.
Some policies offer sin copago (no co-payment) options at higher premium tiers. Worth considering if you use the system frequently.
International Insurance vs. Spanish Private Insurance
If you have international health insurance from a UK, US, or other provider, check directly with the hospital before attending whether they’ll accept direct billing. HC Marbella and Vithas Xanit are your best bets — both have dedicated international insurance teams.
For anything not on an approved network, you may need to pay and claim back. Keep all invoices — Spanish hospitals issue detailed facturas that most international insurers accept for reimbursement.
→ See our full guide to healthcare costs in Spain for a deeper breakdown of what to budget.
When to Use Private vs. Public
The right answer depends on what you need and your situation:
- Emergency (life-threatening): Go to the nearest hospital — public or private. In a genuine emergency, the public system (Hospital Costa del Sol in Marbella) will treat you regardless of insurance status. The private emergency departments are also excellent, but don’t delay treatment to seek out a preferred hospital.
- Specialist consultations: Private almost always makes more sense — faster access, English-speaking doctors, more time per appointment.
- Routine care and GP: Either works. If you have a Spanish private policy, the private GP experience is typically faster and more convenient.
- Major planned surgery: Private if you have insurance or the funds. Better facilities, shorter waits, and you choose your surgeon.
- Mental health: Private psychiatry and psychology are available at the larger hospitals. More English-speaking options available privately.
→ For the full breakdown of the public system, see our guide to Hospital Costa del Sol.
→ For broader context on how healthcare works in Spain, see our complete Spain healthcare guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do private hospitals in Marbella speak English?
Yes — all the hospitals listed here have significant English-speaking capability. HC Marbella is the most English-first, with effectively all staff able to communicate in English. Quirónsalud and Vithas Xanit have international patient units with English coordinators. Even Hospiten Estepona and Clínica del Río have English-comfortable staff due to their predominantly expat patient base.
Can I use my EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) at private hospitals?
The EHIC covers emergency treatment in the Spanish public health system — not private hospitals. Some private hospitals, including Hospiten, may accept EHIC in emergencies and then bill the public system, but this is not guaranteed. Don’t rely on your EHIC for private hospital access. You need either Spanish private insurance or the ability to pay out of pocket.
Which private hospital is best for expats in Marbella?
HC Marbella for English-first care, international insurance acceptance, and the overall expat-focused experience. Quirónsalud Marbella for comprehensive specialist care and the most complete range of services. If you’re east of Marbella, Vithas Xanit is the best option for anything complex.
How much does a private hospital visit cost in Spain without insurance?
Expect €90–250 for a specialist consultation, €200–400+ for emergency attendance (before treatment), and €5,000–20,000+ for surgery depending on complexity. Spain is significantly cheaper than the UK private market or US out-of-pocket costs, but costs add up quickly without insurance. Most long-term expats find a Spanish private insurance policy (€80–150/month) is the sensible choice.
Is Quirónsalud part of a larger group?
Yes — Quirón Salud is the largest private healthcare company in Spain, with over 50 hospitals across the country. This matters because it means access to group-wide specialist networks and a consistent standard of care. If you need to be transferred or referred to a specialist in Madrid or Barcelona, the Quirón network facilitates this.
Can I get private health insurance in Spain if I have a pre-existing condition?
Yes, but the condition may be excluded from cover or attract a higher premium. Spanish insurers typically require a health declaration at sign-up. Pre-existing conditions don’t automatically disqualify you — the insurer may cover everything except the specific condition. Get quotes from multiple insurers (Sanitas, Adeslas, ASISA) as their approaches to pre-existing conditions vary.
What’s the difference between Vithas Xanit and the other private hospitals?
Size and diagnostic capability. Vithas Xanit International in Benalmádena is the largest private hospital on the Costa del Sol — more beds, more specialists, more advanced equipment than any other facility on the coast. The trade-off is location: it’s east of Marbella, a 30–40 minute drive from central Marbella. For complex diagnostics, oncology, or specialist procedures, it’s worth the trip.
Do I need a referral to see a private hospital specialist in Spain?
No — you can self-refer to any specialist at a private hospital without a GP referral. Simply call the hospital or book online and request the specialist you need. This is one of the key advantages of Spanish private healthcare compared to the UK NHS. Some insurance policies may require a GP referral for full reimbursement — check your policy terms.
Summary: Your Private Hospital Shortlist
For most Marbella expats, the decision comes down to:
- HC Marbella for day-to-day private care, especially if English is your working language and you have international insurance
- Quirónsalud Marbella for comprehensive specialist care and complex cases
- Vithas Xanit if you need the most advanced diagnostics on the coast
- Hospiten Estepona if you’re west of San Pedro
- Clínica del Río for routine consultations without hospital overhead
And regardless of which hospital you choose: get health insurance sorted. A Spanish private policy at €100/month removes almost all the friction and cost from accessing any of these facilities. See our guides to healthcare costs in Spain and the Spanish healthcare system for more.
