Once you’ve discovered Almería’s impressive Alcazaba and its unique cathedral, it’s time to get adventurous! The city is an ideal base for exploring the wonders of Andalucia, from the Tabernas Desert to Cabo de Gata, Granada and Sierra Nevada. Between unique desert landscapes, pristine beaches, historic heritage and picturesque villages, there’s something for everyone!
Use our practical tips and our many photos to plan your ideal getaway. See our selection of the 10 best excursions from Almería to make your choice!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Our 3 favorite excursions in Almería
Almería enjoys a privileged location between sea and desert, yet is perfectly connected to the main attractions of eastern Andalucia. To make your visit easier, you can opt for organized tours. Before presenting our detailed reviews of each tour, here are our 3 favorites:
- Explore Cabo de Gata: discover wild beaches and spectacular volcanic landscapes – see prices, availability and book
- Experience adventure in the Tabernas Desert: explore Europe’s only desert, known for its western scenery – see prices, availability and bookings
- Explore the Sierra Nevada mountains: cycle through this mountainous region – see prices, availability and bookings
1. Explore Cabo de Gata Natural Park
Why do we recommend this tour?
For lovers of unspoilt nature, the natural park of Cabo de Gata promises exceptional immersion! Just a 30-minute drive from Almeria, this nature park covers 49,512 hectares, including 37,500 hectares of land and 12,012 hectares of sea. We were captivated by its incredible landscapes and rich biodiversity, recognized by UNESCO.
Hiking and nature lovers will find an exceptional playground here!
What you will see
- Wild beaches with turquoise waters like Playa de Los Muertos
- Spectacular volcanic formations
- Numerous bird species
How much time to allow
Allow a full day for this excursion (the park is vast and well worth taking the time to explore).
You can also opt for a tour:
- Hike and explore the estate’s secret coves – see information, prices and availability
- Discover the bay in a kayak – Book now!
If you come on your own, we recommend staying several days to enjoy all the wonders of the park.
Please also note that as these are wilderness areas, they are not equipped with any special facilities. It’s a good idea to anticipate your needs in terms of food and, above all, to respect the surroundings. See the latest news on the official website here.
RENT A CAR IN Andalucia
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a compact car, as some villages have very narrow streets!
- Think ofcomprehensive insurance for the same reason
- Book early for choice.
2. Exploring the Tabernas Desert
Why do we recommend this tour?
Just a 20-minute drive from Almeria, the Tabernas desert, unique in Europe, extends over 280 km². We advise you to visit it at your own pace, taking one of the many hiking trails to enjoy the variations in color.
Nicknamed Andalucia’s Wild West, the natural setting of the Tabernas Desert has served as the backdrop for numerous films since the 1960s, most notably Sergio Leone’s famous spaghetti westerns The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.
Film buffs can visit the former film studios, now transformed into theme parks.
What you will see
- Geological formations, canyons and ravines
- Abundant flora and fauna
- Fort Bravo and Mini Hollywood film studios, recreations of western towns
How much time should I allow?
If you want to fully explore the Tabernas Desert, it’s best to plan two separate days: one to discover the natural site and its spectacular scenery, the other to enjoy one of the two leisure parks. Fort Bravo/Texas Hollywood or Mini Hollywood offer shows that would be a shame to miss!
Looking for a nature tour? Opt for a horseback ride – see program and availability.
3. Escape to the beach
Why do we recommend this tour?
Almeria’s coastline offers a succession of immense beaches, small coves and charming fishing villages. We particularly recommend Plage d’Agadulce , with its pretty seafront that’s very lively in summer, or Plage de Roquetas de Mar, a pretty little coastal village whose seafront promenade is lined with palm trees.
The Costa Tropical, which stretches between the Costa del Sol and the Costa Almeria, also offers magnificent terrain for exploration. We were seduced by this coastline where the Sierra Nevada mountains plunge into the Mediterranean. You can discover Phoenician, Roman and Arab vestiges while enjoying the beaches and their varied nautical activities.
How much time should I allow?
Admire the beauty of the Almeria coast on a cruise: see info and availability.
4. Explore the surrounding white villages
Why do we recommend this tour?
The white villages around Almería are a veritable architectural treasure trove. We were charmed by their immaculate façades, whitewashed in the traditional way that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll discover Níjar and its traditional pottery, Lucainena de las Torres classified as one of the most beautiful or Rodalquilar and its impressive network of more than 1,000 visitable caves. Each village has its own unique character, and you’re sure to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way!
What you will see
Near Almeria, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the villages of:
- Mojacar (1h by car): perched on a hill 152m above sea level, this village offers superb views of the Mediterranean and a maze of picturesque white streets.
- Nijar (30min): this traditional village is famous for its handicrafts, especially pottery and colorful carpets, as well as its typical houses.
- Lucainena de las Torres (45min): ranked among the most beautiful villages in Spain, this small white village offers an interesting mining heritage and an authentic atmosphere.
Need more inspiration? Read our article on Andalucia’s most beautiful white villages.
How much time should I allow?
We recommend that you opt for a car to visit the white villages, especially if you want to visit several of them. Allow half a day for each village.
Visit the villages in the morning to avoid the heat and enjoy the quiet lanes.
If you prefer animation, we advise you to come in the late afternoon when they come to life.
Want to discover the Sierra around Mojacar? More info and bookings here.
5. Discover Granada from Almería
Why do we recommend this tour?
Situated at 680m above sea level, at the foot of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada will leave you breathless. The city’s skyline is inseparable from the famous Alhambra, a palatial complex listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was on this hill that the last Muslims in Spain took refuge at the time of the Reconquista. Down below, you’ll stroll through neighborhoods with winding streets, such as Albaicín and Sacromonte.
What you will see
- The Alhambra, including the Nasrid Palaces, Generalife andAlcazaba
- The Cathedral, considered to be the first Renaissance-style cathedral in Spain
- The beautiful Cartuja Monastery
- Numerous museums (Fine Arts Museum, Archaeological Museum)
How much time to allow
It takes around 2 hours to reach Granada by car from Almería. Allow a full day to visit the must-sees. However, we advise you to stay several days in Granada if you don’t want to visit just the Alhambra. Read our articles on Granada’s best hotels and attractions.
6. Discover the villages of the Alpujarras
Why do we recommend this tour?
Get ready to immerse yourself in authentic, traditional Andalucia! The Alpujarras region, on the southern slopes of the Sierra Nevada, is home to typical white villages clinging to the mountains, with their characteristic Berber architecture and cultivated terraces. These villages, such as Pampaneira, Bubión and Capileira, have preserved their authenticity and offer a fascinating insight into rural Andalucia. Narrow streets, whitewashed houses and flower-filled balconies create a unique atmosphere.
What you will see
- Picturesque white villages with traditional architecture
- Spectacular views of the Sierra Nevada
- Local craft workshops: weaving, pottery, leatherwork
How much time should I allow?
Allow a full day for this excursion, as the villages are about 2 hours’ drive from Almeria.
Fancy an original visit? Discover the Alpujarras on a winery tour– see program and availability.
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7. Hiking in the Sierra Nevada
Why do we recommend this tour?
The Sierra Nevada, around 2h30 from Almeria, offers a striking contrast with the province’s arid landscapes. This mountain range is home to the highest peak on the Iberian Peninsula, the Mulhacén (3,479 m), and offers spectacular alpine scenery.
In winter, the Sierra Nevada ski resort is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts, while in summer, hikers can explore trails offering breathtaking panoramas. The wealth of flora and fauna in this national park, classified as a biosphere reserve by UNESCO, makes it a popular destination for nature lovers.
What you will see
- Snow-capped peaks (in winter) and verdant alpine meadows (in summer)
- Glacial lakes and alpine valleys
- The unique flora and fauna of the national park
How much time should I allow?
Allow a full day for this excursion, due to the distance from Almeria (approx. 2h30 drive). Here are a few organized tours:
- Cycling in the Sierra Nevada mountains: see info and availability.
- In winter, hiking in the Sierra Nevada at an altitude of 3000m under snow: see program and availability.
If you’re a mountain lover, we advise you to plan a longer stay in the Sierra Nevada to take full advantage of the activities it has to offer, depending on the season.
8. Discover Nerja and its caves
Why do we recommend this tour?
Get ready to plunge into a unique underground universe! Discovered by chance in 1959, the Nerja cave is home to impressive limestone formations and cave paintings. It’s hard not to marvel at the grandeur of the rooms and the magic of the stalactites and stalagmites, enhanced by the play of light.
The highlight of the show? The Cataclysm Hall features a natural column (the meeting of a stalactite and a stalagmite) 32 m high – the tallest in the world!
What you will see
- The various galleries for observing unique limestone formations and other cavities
- A virtual reality room to understand the history of the site and, above all, see the remains of rock art (no longer shown today for conservation reasons).
- Panoramic view of the town of Nerja
How much time should I allow?
Allow 1 hour to visit the Grotte de Nerja.
If you’re coming on your own, plan a day out to discover the pretty Moorish village of Nerja and why not take a relaxing break on the Nerja beaches!
Finally, if you’re particularly fond of caves, you can also take a trip to Benaojan in the Sierra de Grazalema to discover the Cueva del Gato, a spectacular network of caves, less well known but considered one of Andalucia’s most beautiful landscapes.
9. Discover the vibrant city of Malaga
Why do we recommend this tour?
Although the capital of the Costa del Sol is more famous for its beaches and festive atmosphere, it’s sure to surprise you with its rich historical heritage, natural landscapes and varied range of museums. Between culture, relaxation and nature, the city offers a varied experience to suit all tastes! We’ve written a full article on the subject.
What you will see
- Eclectic architectural heritage, from theAlcazaba to the Centre Pompidou
- The collections of the Pablo Picasso Museum, a native of the city
- Its colourful, lively historic center
How much time should I allow?
If you’ve only got a day in Malaga, you’re bound to have to make some choices, as the city’s attractions are numerous. Rest assured, one day is all it takes to see Malaga’s must-sees: its fortress, the Cathedral of the Incarnation and its historic center. If you have the energy, you can also addone of its fascinating museums to your program.
However, we can’t advise you enough to sleep in and take your time. Check out our 2-day, 3-day, 5-day and week-long itineraries.
10. Opt for original tours
If you’re in the mood for something a little different, the Almería region has plenty to offer:
- Caving enthusiasts will love the Grottes de Sorbas, with its impressive network of over 1,000 visitable caves (more info here).
- Astronomy fans can go stargazing at theCalar Alto Observatory (more infohere).
- Thrill-seekers can enjoy a bungee jump – see info, prices and availability – or an afternoon of canyoning: see info and availability.
- Finally, the Pulpí Geode, a cavity lined with giant gypsum crystals, offers the curious a spectacular experience (more info here).
As a final nugget, we recommend Alhama de Granada, a charming Andalucia town perched on the edge of an impressive canyon, 2 hours’ drive from Almeria. Known for its thermal springs and rich Moorish architecture, it offers a peaceful, authentic atmosphere. From the Mirador El Boquete, you can enjoy a spectacular panorama, marking the start of a hike into the canyon, an easily accessible trail that winds along the foot of the cliffs…
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Andalusia
Inspiration
- Best things to do in Andalucia
- The most beautiful cities
- The most beautiful white villages
- Cathedrals
- Archaeological sites
- Seville, Cordoba or Granada? (coming soon)
Practice
- Where to stay in Andalucia (coming soon)
- Best luxury hotels in Andalusia (coming soon)
- Rent a car in Andalusia (coming soon)
- Itineraries: 3 days – 4 or 5 days – 1 week – 10 days – 2 weeks (coming soon)
Places not to be missed
- Things to do in Sevilla
- Things to do in Cordoba (coming soon)
- Things to do in Granada
- Things to do in Ronda
- Things to do in Malaga
- Things to do in Cadiz (coming soon)
