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If you’re looking for a unique and off-the-beaten path travel destination, look no further than Almeria, Spain! This charming Andalusian city is located on the Mediterranean Sea and is known for its beautiful beaches, delicious food, and interesting history.
Almeria is a great place to visit any time of year, but it’s especially popular during the summer months because of its popular water activities.
If you’re planning a trip to this amazing city, be sure to check out our mini-travel guide first!
The Weather in Almeria
Almeria has a Mediterranean climate, which means it experiences hot, dry summers and mild winters. The average temperature in July is about 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius) and the average temperature in January is about 48 degrees Fahrenheit (09 degrees Celsius).
The Best Time to Visit Almeria
The best time to visit Almeria is in the spring or fall. The weather is mild and there are fewer tourists than in the summer months. Keep in mind, if you’re planning on spending most of your time outdoors, the summer months might not be the best option as temperatures can get quite hot. Although, if you are here in the summer, this makes a refreshing trip to the beach even more enjoyable!
Languages Spoken in Almeria
The official language of Spain is Spanish, and there are several dialects of Andalusian Spanish in this region. But you’ll also find that many people in Almeria speak English. This is especially true in the tourist areas and among the younger generations.
The Currency Used in Almeria
The currency used in Spain is the Euro (€). You can get Euros from your bank before you leave, exchange currency once you arrive in Almeria, or simply take out Euros at an ATM once you arrive. Some banks will require you to tell them if you’re going out of the country so be sure to see how your bank handles international transactions and withdraws before leaving.
Time Zone in Almeria
The time zone in Almeria is Central European Time (CET). This is one hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).
Transportation To and Around Almeria
The best way to get to Almeria is by plane. The airport is located about six kilometers from the city center. There are several direct flights from Madrid, Barcelona, and other major Spanish cities.
If you’re coming from outside of Spain, you’ll likely have to make a layover in one of these cities before catching your connecting flight to Almeria.
Once you’re in Almeria, getting around is quite easy. The city center is relatively small and most of the major attractions are within walking distance of each other. If you’re planning on exploring outside of the city center, there are plenty of buses and taxis that can take you where you need to go.
The 21 Best Things To Do In Almeria Spain
When visiting the culturally rich city of Almeria, there are plenty of things to do. It’s a combination of Moorish, Roman, Arabic, and Muslim cultures, making it one of the most diverse locations on the Iberian Peninsula.
Here are some of the best things to do when you’re staying in the Almería province:
1. Spend Some Time At Almeria’s Beaches
There are plenty of beaches to choose from in Almeria, but our favorites are Playa de Los Genoveses, Playa de Monsul, and Cabo de Gata. All three offer stunning views, crystal-clear water, and plenty of activities to keep you busy.
Many beaches have a gorgeous paseo, which is a tiled path perfect for an evening stroll, and you can find plenty of beach bars and restaurants along the way.
If you’re looking to spend a day relaxing on the sand, Almeria’s beaches are the perfect place to do it. Just be sure to pack your sunscreen!
2. Visit Museo De Almería
Museo de Almería is a must-visit for any history lover. This museum houses artifacts from the Paleolithic era all the way through to the 20th century.
You’ll find exhibits on everything from Roman pottery to Moorish art, and there’s even an entire section dedicated to the Spanish Civil War. This is a great early stop during your trip so you can brush up on Almeria’s fascinating history.
3. Try Some Tapas
Almeria is known for its delicious food, and one of the best ways to try a variety of dishes is by ordering tapas. These small plates are perfect for sharing, and you’ll find plenty of options to choose from.
Our favorite places to get tapas are Bar El Quincho, La Consentida, and Taberna Entrevinos. Keep in mind that many bars offer free tapas with a purchase of a drink, keeping your budget in check while you’re trying all the deliciousness Almeria has to offer.
4. Check Out the Almeria Cathedral
The Almeria Cathedral is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. It was built in the 16th century on the site of a previous Moorish mosque.
There is a small fee to enter, but it’s definitely worth it to explore this stunning building. Your entry fee includes an audio guide that will teach you all about the cathedral’s history and architecture.
Go ahead and snap some photos in front of the cathedral, but please be respectful of the religious site.
If you can, try to stop by the facade of the cathedral during both daytime and nighttime hours. The lights give it a whole new look!
5. View Art At the Museo de Arte Dona Pakyta
You can find this popular art museum in the center of Almeria. The Museo de Arte Dona Pakyta is home to a large collection of contemporary Andalusian art.
There are often temporary exhibitions featuring work from local and international artists, so there’s always something new to see. This is a great activity for a rainy day or if you’re looking for a break from the sun.
The collection is in the former home of Dona Pakyta, which is a beautiful building in itself. Make sure to wander through the different rooms and take in the stunning artwork.
Admission to the museum is free, but donations are always appreciated.
6. Walk to the Cerro San Cristobal
If you’re looking for a panoramic view of the city of Almeria, look no further than the Cerro San Cristobal. This hilltop is home to a cross that was erected in honor of the city’s patron saint, Saint Cristobal.
The walk-up can be challenging, but it’s definitely worth it for the stunning views at the top. Once you catch your breath, take some time to explore the monument. Pack some drinks and a lunch to enjoy at the top.
7. Get a Selfie Next to John Lennon’s Statue
You’ll find this statue of John Lennon in the Plaza de las Flores, where you can greet him, thank him for his music, and snap a selfie.
The statue was erected in honor of John Lennon’s time in the city, while he was filming “How I Won the War” in the nearby desert town of Tabernas.
John Lennon is famously known for writing the song “Strawberry Fields Forever” during his stay in this southern-Spanish city.
8. Shop at the Almeria Central Market
The Almeria Central Market is a great place to find souvenirs, gifts, and fresh produce. This market is great for foodies who are looking for the freshest produce and meat in the city. You can also grab some wine and flowers if you’re looking to make your evening romantic with special touches.
The market is open early in the day and later in the evening, but closes for a few hours in the later afternoon, so take your siesta during those hours and visit accordingly.
9. Enjoy Nature At the Cabo De Gata-Níjar Natural Park
Nature lovers and water lovers alike will appreciate this stop on our list. The Cabo De Gata-Níjar Natural Park is a protected area that is home to stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and diverse wildlife.
There are plenty of activities to do in the park, including hiking, swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, birdwatching, and more. You can even hire a boat to take you on a tour of the coast.
Make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, water, and snacks, as there are no services inside the park. Also, be aware of the wildlife and be respectful of their habitat.
10. Tour the Refugios de la Guerra Civil Española
These air-raid shelters were built during the Spanish Civil War and are now open to the public as a museum. The Refugios de la Guerra Civil Española is a must-see for history buffs and those interested in learning more about this dark time in Spain’s past.
The shelter was used by civilians during bombings and was even home to a hospital during the war. Today, you can tour the shelter and see what life was like for those who lived through this difficult time.
11. Take a Day Trip to the Alhambra Palace in Granada
One of the most popular travel destinations is only a couple of hours away from Almeria. The Alhambra Palace in Granada is a Moorish fortress that was built in the 13th century.
The palace is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Spain. If you’re interested in Moorish history and architecture, this is a great place to visit.
You’ll find plenty of tour companies that offer day trips from Almeria to Granada, so you can easily visit the palace without having to spend the night in Granada.
12. Visit the Roquetas de Mar Beach Town
If you’re visiting Almeria during the hotter months, you can take a mini-vacation during your vacation and visit the beach town of Roquetas de Mar. This town is about an hour away from Almeria and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
The town has a long promenade that’s perfect for walking, running or biking. You can also find plenty of restaurants and cafes along the promenade to enjoy refreshing drinks and local seafood.
The town is located along the Playa Serena, which is one of the biggest and cleanest beaches in the area. You can also visit the Castillo de Santa Ana while in town, a 14th-century castle with breathtaking Mediterranean views.
13. Enjoy a Stroll on La Rambla de Almeria
This is one of the most popular tourist spots in Almeria. La Rambla de Almeria is a tree-lined promenade that runs along the seafront. The promenade is a great place to people watch, relax, and take in the fresh sea air. You can also find a gorgeous water fountain and several statues along the promenade.
If you’re visiting Almeria during the summer, make sure to take a stroll on La Rambla de Almeria in the evening when the temperature is cooler.
Also, make sure to grab souvlaki from one of the many vendors along the promenade, as it’s a local favorite and there are many handmade souvenirs to purchase as well.
14. Take a Trip to Los Millares
If you can venture north of Almeria to Santa Fe de Mondújar, Andalucía, you’ll find a prehistoric settlement that’s home to previous inhabitants from the Chalcolithic (copper) age. This complex hosted communities from 4000 BC to about 2000 BC.
If you love history or are just interested in seeing something different, then this is definitely a place you need to visit! You can prepare for your trip by stopping at the Archeological Museum located in Almeria. Many artifacts from this location are for display here and there are also exhibits that help explain what life was like back then.
15. Visit Tabernas Desert
This is the only desert in Europe and is a short drive from Almeria. Tabernas Desert is a great place to go for a day trip, stay for a few nights, or even camping if you’re feeling adventurous.
There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, such as hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. You can also visit the mini-Hollywood movie sets that were used for filming many popular American Western films. This includes movies such as “The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly” and “Lawrence of Arabia”. This is a great activity for the kids (or the kids at heart).
16. Alcazaba of Almería
This Moorish fortress is one of the best-preserved in Spain and offers stunning views of the city and coastline. It’s a great place to learn about Almeria’s history and get a taste of what life was like during the occupation of the Moors in the 10th century.
Plan to spend about 2 hours at this location so you can explore all the nooks and crannies of this massive fortress.
17. Take a Hike Through the Sierra Nevada National Park
If you’re willing to take a day trip, Granada is home to the Sierra Nevada National Park. This is the perfect place to go for a hike or even just to enjoy the incredible views.
There are plenty of trails to choose from, so you can find one that’s suitable for your fitness level. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at mountain climbing.
18. Visit the Cable Ingles
This industrial relic was used to transport miners’ goods from Almeria to the nearby port towns. It’s a fascinating piece of history and is now left along the water shore, allowing curious tourists to walk along and marvel at its size.
Make sure to read the informational signs so you can learn all about this incredible engineering feat.
19. Drive Through the El Chorro Gorge
The El Chorro Gorge is a beautiful canyon that’s located a couple of hours outside of Almeria. The beautiful and towering limestone cliffs are a sight to behold.
If you’re up for a bit of a drive, this is definitely worth the trip. Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes and make sure you’re comfortable with heights – this trip involves crossing narrow bridges and walking along cliff edges
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20. Stop By the Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba
One of the most iconic landmarks in all of Spain, the Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba is a must-see. This mosque-turned-cathedral is one of the most unique buildings in the world and is a great example of religious tolerance.
You can explore the inside of the cathedral or simply admire its beauty from the outside. Inside the temple, you’ll find a beautiful forest of pillars and an incredible mihrab (prayer niche).
21. Check Out a Flamenco Show
Flamenco is a traditional Spanish dance that’s known for its passionate and emotional style. Almeria is home to many great flamenco shows, so be sure to check one out while you’re in town.
You can find flamenco shows in many of the bars and clubs around town. Or, if you’re feeling really adventurous, you can even take a Flamenco dancing class!
The Bottom Line
Almeria is a truly unique and wonderful travel destination, and we hope our mini-guide has inspired you to visit this amazing city. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, try some new foods, or explore Spanish history, Almeria has it all.
This is just a small sampling of the many things Almeria has to offer. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today! We guarantee you won’t be disappointed by this charming Spanish city.
