The 11 things to do in Almeria

Are you staying in Almería? In this article, discover the must-sees to fully immerse yourself in this unmistakable city in Andalusia.

Port of the califat Cordoba during the Al-Andalus era, Almería is a city of great importance in Andalusia. Its Arab heritage, its religious heritage, its gastronomy, its dream beaches and its sweetness of living make it an ideal destination.

But how can we be sure to make the most of all that it can offer? In this article, discover the 11 must-sees not to be missed to visit Almería and discover all its riches.

1. The Alcazaba and its walls

The Alcazaba is the largest Arab citadel built on the Iberian Peninsula during the eight centuries of Al-Andalus . You can still see it that overlooks the city: it is the most emblematic silhouette of Almería .

Its construction began in 955 under Abderramán III. Like many Arab citadels in Spain , it is then reformed by the Catholic Kings. By passing its doors, you can admire many witnesses of this tumultuous story.

In particular, palace of Al-Mutasin still retains all its beauty. It houses baths and an ancient mosque transformed into a church. After strolling through the gardens, we recommend you walk the walls to admire beautiful views of the city and the port.

Good to know: the entrance is free .

2. La cathedral de la Encarnación

What to do in Almería to immerse himself in his religious heritage? The visit of the Cathedral of the Encarnación is a must. Its architecture, on horseback between the late Gothic and the Renaissance, alone justifies the visit.

But by looking closer, some details can surprise you: defensive towers, fortifications, artillery murderers... In reality, it is a true cathedral ! It was intended to protect the city from the incursions of the Barbarian pirates.

If you want to see more, go to the Church of Santiago , beautiful golden building built in the 16th century. Otherwise, Monastery of Purísima Concepción (or Las Puras) offers a nice visit with its typical Andalusian accents.

3. Museums

Visiting Almería is also immersed in Andalusian history and culture. Here are the best museums in the city:

• The archaeological museum : an excellent museum, free and playful, to learn more about the recent prehistory of the region. The rooms are very beautiful and contain real treasures;
• The Guitar Museum : it will make you discover the life and work of Antonio Torres, the 19th century Spanish wrestler. You can admire magnificent instruments and listen to some classical and baroque pieces;
• The Cinema Museum : la casa del cine pays tribute to the many films filmed in the province of Almería and its desert landscapes;
• The museum-refugee of civil war : in the heart of anti-bombardly galleries, this museum retraces this dark era of Spanish history.

4. La Plaza de la Constitución

Impossible to visit Almería without passing through the Plaza de la Constitución , commonly called Plaza Vieja . Located in the heart of the city centre, it dates back to the Arab Almería: it then housed Muslim administrative buildings.

Nearly a thousand years later, she is still the political and administrative centre of the city . You will find the City Hall, the Heritage Interpretation Centre or the Tourist Office.

Admire the statue-monument lined with ficus and palm trees, then let yourself be carried by the atmosphere of the place.

5. The aljibs of Jayran

If you are looking for what to do in Almería to discover its Arab heritage, go to Jayran tanks . They were built in the 11th century by the first lord of the kingdom of Almería. They fed the city into water for more than 750 years, making it the first-rate remnants.

Yet Arab tanks are not easy to find. To have the chance to admire them, go to the peña flamenca El Taranto which hosts itinerant artists. To reconcile a historic visit and a flamenco show!

6. Arab baths

Throughout Andalusia, you will find bathroom facilities , legacy of Arab civilization. The formula remains the same as during the medieval period: an entrance hall, a cold room, a warm room and a hot room.

Modern steam baths also include a massage room and a tea room. A great care is given to the atmosphere, which flirts with its eastern influences. Everything you need to relax for an afternoon!

7. Cable Inglés

Want a walk by the sea? Plan a walk to the Cable Inglés . This imposing masonry and metal structure was built in 1904 to unload the ore extracted from Alquife mines. Its unusual architecture has earned it an expression of cultural interest Andalusia.

Today, the Inglés Cable is still overlooking the beach of Almadrabillas. Considered as a masterpiece of the early twentieth century architecture, it may remind you of the Eiffel Tower .

Attention : in 2022, the shipper is still in work. You can’t visit the interior.

8. The natural park of the Cape of Gata-Nijar

Visiting Almería is also getting closer to Cape of Gata-Nijar . It houses landscapes of great beauty, between volcanic rocks, deserts and white sand beaches. This is the greater protected area of the Mediterranean basin . You may have the chance to cross dolphins, iguanas and many migratory birds. Not to mention the endemic flora and biodiversity that populates the seabed.

The natural park serves as an exception by the quality of its protection measures. Its ecological, geological, historical, anthropological and landscape wealth is simply unique!

And of course, it houses beautiful beaches and coves:

• the beach of Monsul and his lava formations, known for having been the scene of many films;
• la plage de los Genoveses and its panorama on the bay and volcanic promontory;
• la playa de los Muertos, isolated and lined with a chain of volcanoes;
• la playa de los Escullos and its breathtaking view of San Felipe Castle;
• the cala of Enmediowith its black sand and crystalline waters;
• la playa Agua Amarga, lined with coves and small restaurants.

9. The desert of Tabernas

One 30 kilometers north of Almería , the landscape starts to change. The Tabernas desert is a semi-arid area that deploys on 280 square kilometres. It is believed on the other side of the Mediterranean, even in the heart of the Far West . It’s not for nothing that more than 300 films have been shot here!

Moreover, you can still visit the remains of the film industry, such as Fort Bravo, Mexican village, or Western Leone, its saloon and cowboys.

But the Tabernas Desert will especially appeal to nature and hiking enthusiasts. The natural park houses breathtaking landscapes. A high place of ornithological observation, it also houses a rich biodiversity.

10. The surrounding villages

Want to discover villages typical of Andalusia? The province of Almería houses real treasures:

• Mojácar : located at the top of the _Sierra de Cabrera_Mojácar is one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. Its white streets scented with jasmines and bougainvilliers draw a typical Andalusian landscape;
• Isleta del Moro : this charming village offers a spectacular view of the Cape of Gata-Nijar. Its atmosphere at the end of the world is worth a visit;
• Níjar : besides its historical heritage of great wealth, this white village of Andalusia is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, between deserts, salines and beaches;
• Get out : perched on a rocky piton, Sorbas is composed of whitewashed houses that suspend in the void;
• Taberna : located in the heart of the Tabernas Desert, this pretty village is bathed by an atmosphere worthy of a western;
• Vélez Blanco : to be seen for its historical and religious heritage, its white houses and its superb 16th century castle;
• Las Negras : located in the natural park of the Cape of Gata-Nijar, this village holds its name Cerro Negro, black mountain of volcanic origin.

11. Boat rides and nautical activities

What to do in Almería to fully enjoy one of the most beautiful portions of the Mediterranean ? Take the sea to discover the coast, and especially the Cape of Gata-Nijar and its breathtaking landscapes. From the sea, you can admire the volcanic cliffs, desert beaches and coves that cut into the bay. Some excursions include a swim break, or even a diving session.

bay of Almería is an ideal spot to observe the fauna and flora of the seabed. In particular, diving and snorkeling enthusiasts will be able to explore Posidonia Reef .

And if you are looking for a sporting activity, explore the bay by yourself in renting a sailboat a kayak or a zodiac.

Where to eat in Almería?

Visiting Almería is also going to discover its gastronomy. Explore the flavors of Andalusia, sprinkled with sun and Arab influences.

The culinary specialties to discover

Want to discover the typical dishes of Almería? Don't pass by gurullos con con conejo . This potage of homemade pasta is made of rabbit meat, tomatoes and olive oil. Seafood lovers can enjoy the sopa bullabesa Almería, a typical broth of the region.

On the tapas side, taste the darlinggan , slices of bread with aaioli or tomato. Otherwise, order one tabernero , a sort of ratatouille that we find in almost all the bars in the city.

Of course, visiting Almería is also the opportunity to discover Andalusian cuisine in its globality. Taste the famous gaspacho, the soup salmorejo , the flan tocino del cielo , pot-au-feu olla de trigo ... Not to mention the wines of Andalusia: the wine of Jerez, the Montilla-moriles, the Málaga, etc.

Some good addresses

Here are the best restaurants in Almería to discover the traditional Andalusian cuisine:

• Travieso : Dani Muñoz's restaurant offers tasty and creative dishes. The atmosphere is warm, the typical recipes are revisited with brio;
• Jovellanos 16 : succulent dishes and tapas to fall on the ground... Probably one of the best addresses in Almería, adapted to small budgets;
• Taberna Nuestra Tierra : a typical Andalusian atmosphere and gourmet tapas... The Nuestra Tierra taberna promises an unforgettable moment, but you have to book in advance to enjoy it.

Discover the Andalusian cuisine otherwise...

Want to immerse yourself fully in the culinary culture of Almería? Attending a cooking course is an excellent way to discover new recipes. You will find many online workshops. Meeting on Tripadvisor or Airbnb to consult the various offers. Otherwise, You Chief Talleres offers a wide variety of cooking workshops in the heart of Almería.

How to get to Almería?

By car

Visiting Almería by car will allow you to shine throughout Andalusia. But it’s not the door next! From Paris , we have to count about 5 p.m. travel.

As part of a road trip over several weeks, it is however an adventure full of surprises that await you.

By train and bus

In Spain, the train and the bus are not very expensive. You can visit Almería directly from Madrid for about 6 a.m. train and 30-40 € .

The bus network is also developed. It will allow you to discover the villages of the province of Almería and to connect the major Andalusian cities.

By plane

You will find many economic flights to airport of Málaga . Then you'll need about 2.15 a.m. road to reach Almería. Otherwise, you can stop at the Almería airport , located only 15 minutes City. Rates are generally higher, but you will find direct flights from Paris to Almería.

To quickly find the offers at the best price based on your dates, visit the website Skyscanner .

Where to stay in Almería?

extending to the feet of the Alcazaba, the historic center is the best area to stay to take advantage of all points of interest in the city. There you will find an important offer of accommodation: hotels, lodgings, Airbnb , etc. To find the perfect accommodation, use a Compare hotels . It will select for you the best offers according to your dates and needs.

Passengers in transit, or those who wish to get closer to port and ferries, can also sleep at the port of Almería. To enjoy the beaches...