Looking for inspiration for your vacation in Andalucia?
Ideally located between land and sea, Almería is not only perfectly situated for exploring the region’s treasures between desert, mountains and sea, but also has a fascinating heritage to visit. You’ll be seduced by its imposing Alcazaba overlooking the bay, its fortified cathedral, its calm beaches and its vibrant atmosphere.
Here’s our guide to Almería’s must-see places and useful tips for planning your visit.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Is Almería worth a visit?
Yes, Almería is well worth a visit. Andalucia’s authenticity and rich historical heritage make this town a real attraction. We were particularly impressed by its imposing Alcazaba, the largest Muslim fortress in Spain, and its unique fortified cathedral. The town is also an ideal base for exploring the Tabernas Desert, Cabo de Gata Natural Park and the riches of the Sierra Nevada.
1. Taking in the view from the Alcazaba walls
Why visit?
This fortress is one of the most impressive monumental medieval defensive ensembles in al-Andalus. We even preferred it toMalaga’s Alcazaba! Like us, you’ll be seduced by its vast and remarkable architecture, its well-preserved remains and its incredible panoramic views, especially of the Jayrán Wall. Built in the 11th century, this line stretches all the way to the Colline de San Cristóbal, from where you can see the image of the Sacred Heart of Jesus on a large plinth, a marble by Macael, built in the 20th century.
Practical advice
- How to get there: The Alcazaba is located in the hills above Almeria, on Calle Almanzor. It’s just a few minutes’ walk from downtown.
- Tour duration: 2h
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 9am to 6pm, Sundays until 3pm. During the high season, the site remains open until 9pm, giving you the chance to see the sunset in XXL!
- Difficult to visit: No handicapped access, so bring good shoes as many of the floors are unstable and cobbled.
- Price: free for EU citizens (see the latest info on the official website here)
- Parking: No dedicated parking and very few spaces around the citadel. The nearest parking lot is the Parking Plaza del Ayuntamiento Almería telpark.
- Food & beverage: You’ll find water and sweets dispensers around the corner, but we recommend taking a break at Restaurant Almedina Baraka, for mint tea and delicious oriental pastries before starting your tour.
- Other tips: Bring sun protection, as a large part of the visit takes place outdoors, and conversely, if it’s cold, bring a scarf, as the site is subject to wind. Last but not least, we strongly recommend that you book a guided tour , as the mediation facilities are inadequate given the historic scale of the site. Book your guided tour now!
2. Admire the Cathedral of the Incarnation
Why visit?
This titanic 16th-century construction elegantly combines late Gothic and Renaissance styles. We were fascinated by its unique fortified appearance, with defensive towers that served to protect the town from pirates. Inside, it’s the opulence of the church’s decoration that is most appealing, with its three Gothic naves, ribbed vaults and remarkable Renaissance stalls. Don’t forget to visit the peaceful Monastery of the Immaculate Conception, the perfect complement to your visit!
Practical advice
- Access: In the historic center of Almeria
- Length of visit: 1 hour minimum, especially if you follow the audioguide
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday 10am-7pm, Sunday 3pm-6pm (closed 2.30pm-4pm)
- Visiting difficulties: The cathedral is accessible to people with reduced mobility, who can gain access from the side entrance near the Patio de los Naranjos. Access to the terrace, on the other hand, is via a narrow spiral staircase with some 200 steps.
- Price: €7 for adults, combined admission with monastery and guided tour €11
- Other tips: The Monastery of Las Puras is only a 5min walk from the Cathedral and deserves at least 30min too!
- Fancy a guided tour combining the city’s two religious jewels? See more information and book 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.
3. Stroll downtown
The history of Almería can be seen in the many remains that bear witness to successive civilizations. From Arab society, you’ll find some of the narrow streets of the old medina around the Alcazaba and the Jayran Cisterns. At the Local History Museum, you’ll also discover the tunnels dug by the locals to protect themselves from bombardment during the Spanish Civil War. And don’t miss the Plaza Vieja or Plaza de la Constitution, with its beautiful arcades housing the town hall. It has been an administrative centre, a marketplace and a courtroom! Finally, if you have the time, take a trip to the popular and colorful La Chanca district (a 15-minute walk from downtown).
- Visiting tips: We recommend walking around at the end of the day, when the city comes alive with its inhabitants, because in the morning the city is quiet and everything is closed between 2 and 4 pm.
- Difficulties: Almería is above all a city of passage, with sometimes limited tourist infrastructures. We’ve noticed that some downtown streets lack maintenance, which can detract from the city’s overall charm. Note also that some streets are cobbled and sloping, but are still passable even for wheelchair users.
- The Musée d’Histoire Locale is accessible by guided tour only (more info here).
- Looking for an original tour of the historic center? See info, prices and availability.
4. Explore Cabo de Gata natural park
Why visit?
This unique natural park covers 49,512 hectares, including 37,500 hectares of land and 12,012 hectares of sea. We were captivated by its spectacular volcanic rock formations, wild beaches and salt marshes. You can observe a rich biodiversity in this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, including numerous bird species. Hiking and nature lovers will find an exceptional playground here.
Practical advice
- Access: Located in the extreme south-east of the Iberian Peninsula, the park is 1 hour’s drive from Almeria.
- Length of visit: Allow at least half a day to explore the park. However, we advise you to allow several days to enjoy all the wonders of the site. See the latest news on the official website here.
- Best time to visit: Opt for April and October for mild, sunny weather and a privileged visit.
- Difficult to visit: As these are wilderness areas, no special equipment is required. It’s a good idea to anticipate your needs in terms of food and, above all, to respect the surroundings.
- Ready to immerse yourself in nature? Book a guided tour here
5. A cinematic experience in the Desert of Tabernacles
Why visit?
Europe’s only desert, Tabernas stretches over 280 km² between three mountain ranges.
You can choose to visit at your own pace, following one of the many hiking trails.
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.
Practical advice
- Access: north of Almeria, 20 minutes by car.
- Length of visit: Allow half a day. Excursions in 4WD take around 2 hours, while hikes can take between 3 and 5 hours. Allow 2 days if you also want to try out one of the theme parks.
- Opening hours: The desert and its hiking trails are accessible 24/7. Amusement parks are mainly open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., every day. (Check the Mini Oasis and FortBravo websites respectively).
- Difficulties when visiting: Theme parks offer restaurants, but if you’re coming on your own, we advise you to bring a picnic, plenty of water and sun protection.
- Access: Access to the Tabernas desert is very easy, but you may want to plan an excursion if you’re not comfortable on the winding roads.
- Price: Entrance to the desert is free, but prices range from €19.40 to €24 for theme parks.
- Other tips: Please note that you will have to leave the desert after your visit, as there is no accommodation and camping is forbidden on site.
- Want to discover the desert on horseback? See more information and book here.
6. Explore the surrounding white villages
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 over 1,000 visitable caves. Each village has its own unique character, and you’re sure to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way!
- Access: We recommend that you visit the white villages by car, especially if you want to visit several of them.
- Length of visit: Allow half a day for each village.
- Visiting difficulties: Many villages have cobbled, sloping streets with a certain gradient, and are not suitable for visitors with disabilities.
Note also that shops and restaurants can be scarce. Find out more about your destination and plan accordingly! - Other tips: 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.
7. Road-trip to the Costa Tropical
The Costa Tropical, which stretches between the Costa del Sol and the Costa Almeria, 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.
- Free access to beaches and villages – See the latest news on the official website here
- Tempted by a hike through crystal-clear waters and dreamy coves? See prices and availability for a hike in the Maro cliffs here
8. Taste the Andalusian art of living
Almería is less touristy than its neighbors, and can be appreciated for its local atmosphere and authentic gastronomy. Tapeo is an Andalucia custom emblematic of Spanish gastronomy, the concept of which is to share dishes in small portions. We didn’t hesitate to try the specialties like salmorejo and migas served in the local restaurants. You can also take advantage of the city’s cultural offerings with shows and relax in a traditional hammam.
- Why not do your shopping at the Mercado Central? Open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 3pm for a vitamin-packed atmosphere!
- Good to know: Restaurants are open on a staggered schedule (lunch between 2 and 4pm and dinner from 9pm). Look out for our Where to eat in Almería article soon!
- Fancy a gourmet excursion? Take a tour of the winery and enjoy a wine tasting. Information and reservations here.
FUN in Andalucia: activities
- Cooking course in Sevilla
- Canyoning from the Costa del Sol
- Caminito del Rey guided hike
Other attractions in and around Almería
Things to do in Almería: other ideas
In addition to the Alcazaba and the Cathedral of the Incarnation, Almeria also reveals other secrets and stands out for its various themed museums.
For lovers of architecture, we recommend:
- The emblematic Cable Inglés, an impressive metal loading dock dating back to 1904, is a listed monument to the region’s mining past.
- Las Ramblas, an elegant tree-lined avenue that forms the city’s main thoroughfare, offers a pleasant shady escape.
For archaeology buffs, we highly recommend the Archaeological Museum for its fine collection tracing the thousand-year history of the region.
And don’t forget to visit the Los Millares site to explore Almeria’s prehistoric past (more info here).
Finally, film buffs won’t want to miss the Museum of Cinema , while guitar fans can visit the eponymous museum which pays tribute to Antonio Tores Jurado.
Nearby excursions
The city is also well connected to the various sites of Andalucia, and for simplicity’s sake, you can opt for a day trip:
- Discover the wonders of Granada: see info and availability.
- Cycling in the Sierra Nevada mountains: see info and availability.
- Admire the beauty of the Almeria coast on a cruise: see info and availability.
If you’re in the mood for something different, the Almeria region is full of sights.
- 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 info here).
- Finally, the Pulpí Geode, a cavity lined with giant gypsum crystals, offers the curious a spectacular experience (more info here).
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How to get to Almería + parking
Where is Almería
Malaga is located in south-eastern Spain and enjoys a privileged position between the sea and the mountains.
- 2 hours drive from Granada
- 2h30 from Malaga
Here is a map to help you find your way:
How to get there
- By plane: from international destinations, the easiest way is to fly to Malaga. There is an airport in Almería, but it only offers internal flights and only a few to London.
- By car: From Malaga airport, you can rent a car and reach Almería in 2h30. The city is easily accessible thanks to major roads such as theA-7 (Mediterranean freeway) and theA-92, which link the city to other regions.
Note also that the BlaBla car application works very well between towns in the same region. - Public transport: You can reach Almería by train, with a connection from Granada taking around 2 hours. You can book your tickets on the Renfe website here. Nevertheless, the bus network is undoubtedly the cheapest and fastest option! More info on the official website here.
Parking in Almería
It’s not easy to find parking in Almeria. If you can, it’s best to book a hotel with free parking and explore the city on foot. It’s impossible to find free parking, and even if you do, it’s only for a limited time.
The nearest parking lot to the historic center is the APK2 Rambla Car Park.
Useful tips for visiting Almería
How long and when?
A day trip is all it takes to discover Almería’s must-sees.
Sleeping in Almería is also an option if you want to spend a few days exploring the region.
Although the town is not very touristy, which makes for a pleasant immersion in the local atmosphere, we did notice that some of the streets in the town center lack maintenance, thus diminishing its charm.
Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit Almería, for pleasant temperatures. So you can enjoy the beaches after your visits!
There will also be fewer crowds in Cabo de Gata and the Costa Tropical to enjoy the wonders of the coast.
Visiting directions and difficulties
We recommend starting at the Alcazaba in the morning to avoid the heat. You’ll then have time to explore the historic center and visit the cathedral.
Some streets are steep and cobbled, so bring good shoes.
Getting around couldn’t be easier! The historic center is easily accessible on foot. The town also boasts an efficient public transport network, with various bus routes taking you to the beaches in particular. Cyclists will appreciate the 80 kilometers of bike paths, especially along La Rambla and Paseo Mar.
Just note that, being primarily industry-oriented, the city’s urban ambience may not be to everyone’s taste.
Visiting with children
In addition to the impressive Alcazaba, which offers children an amazing terrain for exploration, you can keep your kids busy at the Guitar Museum or take them to the beach.
They’ll particularly enjoy the Tabernas Desert’s western amusement parks and shows. And if you want to impress them, take them to the Sorbas Caves (1 hour’s drive from Almeria).
Restaurants
The town boasts an excellent choice of restaurants. There really is something for every taste, style and budget! We’ve tested a few for you, in our dedicated article, but we can’t resist giving you our 3 favorites here:
- Restaurant Casa Puga for its indescribable atmosphere and delicious tapas,
- Restaurant Joseba Anorga Taberna, for classics revisited with originality,
- Restaurant Travieso, singled out by the Michelin Guide for the creativity of chef Dani Muñoz!
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)
