Almeria Spain

Visitor Guide & Tourist Information

If you are looking for sun, sea, clean waters and a more natural and tranquil holiday then Almeria Spain should be high on your list of places to visit in Spain.

With over 3000 hours of sunshine per year, less than 200 millimetres of rain and a warm all-year-round climate, the province of Almeria is a sun worshiper paradise.

People visit Almeria Spain for the more laid-back atmosphere, clean waters and rugged landscapes as well as off-the-beaten-track hidden beaches surrounded by rolling hills with mountain landscapes.

Tourists eager to experience new things will fully enjoy the many local fiestas – beautiful and colourful parties, the old traditions are well preserved here as well as its undeniable beauty.

Almeria is home to the stunning Cabo de Gata nature park, enjoy the spectacular coastal pathways and panoramic views as well as great beaches and varied wildlife.  A real treat is the Las Salinas salt flats, home to pink flamingos and other wild animals.

Is Almeria Worth Visiting?

Cabo De Gata National Park
Cabo De Gata National Park

With its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and historic attractions, Almeria is absolutely worth visiting for those looking to experience an authentic slice of Andalusia.

Though often overlooked in favour of more famous neighbours like Granada, Almería has plenty to offer visitors of all interests.

For beach lovers, Almeria's stretches of sandy Mediterranean coastline are a huge draw. Places like the Cabo de Gata Natural Park provide secluded coves and beaches with crystal clear waters, ideal for swimming, snorkelling, or just relaxing on the sand.

Even the city beaches are lovely, like the Playa de Almería promenade. The mild year-round climate also makes beach days possible most any time.

Beyond the shores, Almeria has an intriguing history as a crossroads of cultures reflected in sights like the Moorish Alcazaba fortress and the mix of Catholic and Muslim architecture in the Mesquita-Catedral.

The city center provides an authentic taste of Andalusian life with tapas bars, traditional whitewashed buildings, and lively plazas. Almeria offers a laidback vibe without overwhelming crowds of tourists.

Day trips to Cabo de Gata, the mountain villages of Filabres, or the Wild West film sets at Tabernas add to the diversity of attractions and landscapes.

Activities like hiking, cycling, water sports, or photography provide ample options for active travellers.

With a great blend of culture, nature and R&R, Almeria has something for all visitors whether for a short stopover or a longer stay. For an off-the-beaten-path experience in Spain, Almeria is absolutely worth a visit.

10 Top Things To Do In Almeria Spain

Velez Blanco Almeria
Velez Blanco Almeria

Alcazaba de Almería:

Start your journey at the Almeria Alcazaba, a majestic Moorish fortress that offers panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. Explore its impressive walls, beautiful gardens, and archaeological treasures.

Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park:

Nature lovers will be captivated by the rugged landscapes of this stunning natural park. Hike along its scenic trails, relax on secluded beaches, and admire the dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters.

Cathedral of Almeria:

Visit the Grand Cathedral of Almeria, a magnificent example of Spanish Renaissance architecture. Marvel at its intricate details and stained glass windows.

The Almeria Museum:

Delve into the city's rich history and culture at the Almería Museum. Discover archaeological artefacts, art collections, and exhibits that showcase the region's fascinating past.

Civil War Shelters:

Visit the fascinating civil war shelters and underground galleries of shelters that were used during the Spanish Civil War by over 40.000 local inhabitants.

Playa de Los Muertos:

Soak up the sun and unwind on the pristine Playa de Los Muertos. This stunning beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings, is a true paradise for beach lovers.

Mini Hollywood:

Step into the wild west at Mini Hollywood, a film set turned theme park. Experience the thrill of an old-fashioned shootout, explore the mock-up town, and watch exciting shows and performances.

Paseo de Almeria:

Take a leisurely stroll along Paseo de Almeria, the city's main promenade. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, browse boutique shops, and taste the delicious Spanish tapas at the charming outdoor cafes.

Taberna El Quinto Toro:

Indulge in authentic Spanish cuisine at Taberna El Quinto Toro. This popular tapas bar offers a delightful selection of traditional dishes, including succulent grilled meats and flavourful seafood.

La Cueva de la Mar:

For a memorable dining experience, head to La Cueva de la Mar. This unique seafood restaurant is built into a cave, offering a cosy and romantic atmosphere, along with fresh and delicious seafood delicacies.

Nightlife in Almeria:

As the sun sets, Almería Spain comes alive with vibrant nightlife. Visit La Puerta de la Cerveza for a wide selection of craft beers, or dance the night away at Mandala Disco Club, a popular venue with live music and DJ sets.

The Western Film Museum:

Immerse yourself in the world of Spaghetti Westerns at the Western Film Museum. Explore the extensive collection of props, costumes, and memorabilia from famous Western films that were shot in the region. Discover the cinematic history of Almería and its role as the "Hollywood of Europe."

San Juan de los Terreros:

Escape to the picturesque coastal town of San Juan de los Terreros. Relax on its pristine beaches, go for a swim in the turquoise waters, and indulge in fresh seafood at the beachfront restaurants. Don't miss the iconic San Juan de Los Terreros Castle, which offers panoramic views of the coastline.

Tabernas Desert:

Venture into the only desert in Europe, the Tabernas Desert. This unique landscape, known for its arid and lunar-like appearance, has served as a backdrop for many famous movies. Take a jeep safari or go hiking to discover its rugged beauty and spot rare wildlife.

Castillo de Santa Ana:

Explore the historic Castillo de Santa Ana, located on the picturesque harbour of Roquetas de Mar. This 17th-century fortress offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and houses exhibitions that delve into the region's maritime history.

 

5 Interesting Facts about Almeria

Horse Riding in the Tabernas Desert
Horse Riding in the Tabernas Desert
  1. Almeria is the driest place in Europe with just 150mm of rain each year.
  2. Almeria is home to the only desert in Europe - Tabernas.
  3. Taberna's desert has been the location of hundreds of films including the Game of Thrones.
  4. During Spain's civil war, Almeria was heavily bombarded by the German navy.
  5. Almeria is home to many pristine beaches as much of the coastline is protected.

Discover the City of Almeria Spain

Almeria Alcazaba

Almeria is among the top five hottest cities in Spain, boasting the warmest winters in the whole of Europe.

This lively and colourful region is rich in history with a remarkable medieval heritage and architecture, colourful markets and picturesque streets.

A must-see tourist attraction is the Alcazaba Fortress, whose construction began around the 12th Century, and has now been declared an ‘’Historic-Artistic Monument’’.

The region is also famous for its many olive trees and especially for producing some of the finest pure extra virgin olive oil in Spain.

Well worth a visit is the Olive Oil Museum, a perfect place to learn about this prized Spanish product.

Almeria Cathedral
Almeria Cathedral

Don't forget to visit Almeria Cathedral, built to defend the city from pirates, and rebuilt after partial destruction by an earthquake. Many of the monuments which survived still bear scars of this natural catastrophe, which struck the town way back in 1522.

Almeria is also home to Europe’s longest network of underground air raid shelters, serving as a life-saving hideout for the locals during the Spanish Civil War, in the late 1930s.

Also worth exploring is Chanca, an area where houses are carved deep into the rock face.

A final must-visit attraction has got to be the Museum of Almeria, filled with artefacts and local findings from the Prehistoric, Iberian, Roman, Muslim and Greek eras – the best way to head back in time to the real roots of Almeria; the history that made it into the unique city that it is today.

Just as the sun sets over the Mediterranean, why not hit the seaside promenade and stroll around the city centre and what better way to end your day than enjoying a traditional meal in one of the city centre restaurants

Take a peaceful stroll on the Paseo de Coches promenade or hit the bars and restaurants located along the Rambla de Almeria.

The city can be accessed via its international airport, or by very good motorway links from Malaga on the Costa del Sol and the historic city of Granada.

Best Beaches in Almeria

Cabo De Gata
Almeria hides some hidden gems if you are a lover of quiet pristine beaches with clean warm waters.

In the eastern part of the province is the Cabo de Gata Natural Park where construction has been kept to an absolute minimum.

Warm and clear waters flow all along the shores of this natural park. The area is ideal for tranquil bathing and snorkelling enthusiasts looking to explore the clear shallow waters around the rocky outcrops.

If this type of holiday floats your boat then head for the remote villages of Los Escullos, Playa de Los Genoveses, San Jose and Playa de Monsul.

These sleepy Spanish seaside towns with quiet beaches may be slightly off the beaten track but are well worth the trip.

Best beaches in Almeria you should visit:

Playa de Los Genoveses

Playa de Los Genoveses: Also found in the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park, Playa de Los Genoveses is a wide, sandy beach surrounded by rolling dunes and untouched natural beauty. It's an ideal spot for long walks and beach picnics.

Playa de Los Muertos: Located in Carboneras, this stunning beach is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. It offers a secluded and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for sunbathing and snorkelling.

Playa de Monsul: Situated within the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, Playa de Monsul is renowned for its unique volcanic rock formations. It boasts pristine sands, and transparent waters, and is a favourite spot for photographers and nature lovers.

Playa de San Jose: Located in the charming fishing village of San Jose, this beach offers a laid-back tranquil with a few charming beach bars. It's a popular spot for water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding.

Playa de las Salinas: Situated near the town of Roquetas de Mar, Playa de las Salinas is known for its golden sands and shallow, calm waters. It's an excellent choice for families with children as it provides a safe and enjoyable beach experience.

Playa de Aguadulce: Found in the resort town of Aguadulce, this beach offers a wide range of facilities and services, including beach bars, water sports activities, and beachfront promenades. It's a lively and bustling beach popular among tourists.

Playa de Vera: Located in the town of Vera, this expansive beach stretches for several kilometres and is known for its soft sand and clear waters. It's a naturist-friendly beach that offers a tranquil and relaxing environment.

Playa de San Miguel: Situated in the coastal town of Mojacar, Playa de San Miguel is a picturesque beach lined with palm trees and beachfront restaurants. It's a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying stunning views of the Mediterranean.

Be a Cowboy or Cowgirl for the Day!

Tabernas

The Tabernas desert has been the location for many top Hollywood blockbuster movies including Lawrence of Arabia, A Fistful of Dollars, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and Lucky Luke.

There are a few film sets which are open to the public and allow you to enjoy the atmosphere of an old western town and even watch or take part in being a cowboy, its great family fun and well worth visiting.

One of the most popular studios and film sets is the Mini Hollywood Western Theme Park which offers rural cabins for your stay over, horse rentals, shows, studios, a saloon bar and a nice swimming pool to help wash away the desert dust at the end of the day.

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Weather in Almeria Spain

Windy.Com Weather Forecast

Almería province enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate throughout the year, with hot, dry summers and mild winters.

Summer in Almería, from June to September, is typically hot and sunny. High temperatures average between 30-35°C (86-95°F) but can exceed 40°C (104°F) during heatwaves. The long sunny days and lack of rain make summer the peak tourist season. Nearby desert areas inland see some of Spain's highest-ever recorded temperatures in the summer. Humidity remains low and there is little rainfall, so conditions are dry. Nights provide some relief from the heat.

Autumn sees a gradual cooling from October to November, with average highs of 22-26°C (72-79°F). Sunshine still predominates but some rainfall begins, primarily coming in short downpours. September and October are transitional months and among the best times to visit, with fewer tourists than summer.

Winter in Almería from December to February is the mildest season, with temperatures averaging 10–17°C (50–63°F). Most days remain pleasant for sunbathing but some rain showers do occur. Cold waves occasionally lower nighttime lows to freezing. Snow in the city is rare.

Spring from March to May warms steadily, reaching average highs of 20-25°C (68-77°F) in May. Sunny days abound yet rainfall increases toward the end of spring. March and April can bring high winds.

Overall Almería enjoys over 3000 hours of sunshine per year and a dry climate year-round, contributing to its popularity as a beach destination. The warmest months are July and August while December and January are the coolest.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

Almeria is famous for its agriculture, especially greenhouse farming which produces much of Europe's winter produce. It's also known for its historic Alcazaba fortress, sandy beaches, and as a filming location for many famous Western films. Almería offers a sunny climate, unique cowboy movie history, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine.

Yes, Almeria is worth a visit, especially for those looking to enjoy the sunny beaches along the southeastern coast of Spain. The city offers an authentic taste of Andalusian culture, delicious seafood, interesting historic landmarks like the Alcazaba, and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby Cabo de Gata natural park. Almería provides a laidback Mediterranean beach holiday destination off the main tourist track.

Yes, Almeria makes for a lovely beach holiday destination. It offers miles of unspoiled sandy beaches along Spain's sunny southeastern coast, providing many options for relaxed days of swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the Mediterranean Sea. The city also boasts an authentic local vibe, tapas bars, historic sights like the Alcazaba fortress, and proximity to the beautiful Cabo de Gata natural park. Almería is an underrated gem for a sunny Spanish getaway.

Níjar is considered one of the prettiest villages in Almería. It is a traditional whitewashed Andalusian pueblo known for its pottery craftspeople and picturesque houses nestled into the mountainside. Its beauty, tranquil ambience, and artisan shops attract many visitors. Other top contenders for the prettiest village include Berja, Sorbas, Mojacar, and Velefique.

Yes, Almería has some lovely beaches to enjoy. The Cabo de Gata Natural Park just south of the city features pristine sandy coves and beaches with crystal clear waters. Almería city's coastline also has excellent beaches such as:

  • Playa de los Muertos - Secluded cove with calm, clear waters in Cabo de Gata natural park.
  • Playa de Monsul - Wild, sandy beach with rock formations and a castle view in Cabo de Gata.
  • Playa de los Genoveses - Long, pristine, crescent-shaped beach in Cabo de Gata.
  • Playa de Monsul - Popular sandy beach with amenities like parking and restaurants nearby.
  • Playa del Algarrobico - Dramatic 1 mile-long beach with dunes in Carboneras known for surfing.

The Almería Airport (LEI)  is the main airport serving the city of Almeria and the surrounding coastal region. It offers domestic and international flights primarily from European cities and is located approximately 9 km east of Almería city center. The small airport is easy to navigate and connected to the city by taxi, bus or car rental. The other large international airport that serves Almeria is Malaga (AGP)

Almeria enjoys warm weather throughout the year thanks to its sunny location along the Mediterranean coast in southeast Spain. The climate is mild in winter with temperatures averaging 10-17°C (50-63°F) and hot in summer averaging 24-34°C (75-93°F). Almeria records over 3,000 hours of sunshine per year. The warm weather makes it popular for beach holidays nearly any time of year. The evenings can get pretty chilly during the winter months from November to February so best to pack accordingly if you plan to visit during those months.

Yes, Almeria has a lovely beach promenade stretching around 3 kilometres along the city's coastline. The Paseo Marítimo promenade runs from the Port of Almería to El Zapillo beach, offering pedestrian walkways, bike paths, gardens, fountains, and seating areas to enjoy views of the Mediterranean Sea. It's a popular spot for an evening stroll among locals and visitors alike in the seaside city.

Almeria province is one of the hottest parts of Spain due to its southerly location along the Mediterranean coast of Andalusia. Summers are long, hot and dry, with average high temperatures around 34°C (93°F). Nearby desert areas inland see Spain's highest temperatures. Along with parts of southern Andalusia, Almeria records some of Spain's highest sunshine hours and driest conditions.

No, Almeria and Alicante are not considered close in proximity. Almería is located along the southeast coast of Spain in Andalusia, while Alicante is on the east coast in the Valencian Community. The two cities are about 270 km (168 miles) apart by road and a 3.5 hour drive.

A taxi from Almería Airport to Almería city center costs approximately €25-30 and takes around 15 minutes. The major taxi companies that operate at the airport include Radio Taxi Almería, Tele Taxi, and Radio Teléfono Taxi. The fare may be slightly higher at night or if there is heavy traffic. For a cheaper option, there are also airport bus shuttles available for around €5 per person to the city center.

ALMERÍA WEATHER