Almeria holidays

Often overlooked for Andalucian heavy hitters like Seville, Granada and Malaga, this underrated Spanish city sandwiched between the Mediterranean coast and the Tabernas Desert packs a big punch. Take advantage of the reliably warm weather and year-round sunshine to spend your holiday in Almeria exploring its natural parks, secret snorkelling spots and flamenco festivals.

Almeria holiday highlights

Almeria

Medieval history

The 10th-century fortress Alcazaba of Almeria towers over the city, a relic of a time when Andalucia was under Moorish rule. Good news for visitors looking for ways to have a cheap holiday in Almeria — the fortress is free to visit. Peek over its fortifications at the Mediterranean Sea before walking up San Cristobal Hill at sunset.

Wild West adventures

Since the 1950s, filmmakers have descended on the Tabernas Desert (about a 30-minute drive from Almeria), realising that the landscape could imitate the American Wild West at a fraction of the cost. Many of the original sets still stand today. Unleash your inner Clint Eastwood at the likes of Fort Bravo for an offbeat excursion on your holiday to Almeria.

Natural wonder

Dotted with resorts, lengthy Zapillo Beach sits within Almeria’s city limits. Slip off your shoes to walk along its shoreline at sunset. Travel 45 minutes east of the city for the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park, where the scene of its craggy, volcanic mountains set against the turquoise coastline will keep your camera busy for hours.

Almeria: Know before you go

Language

Spanish

Currency

Euro (€)

Time zone

UTC+1 (CET) and UTC+2 (CEST)

High season

July – August

Low season

December – February

Find the best time to go to Almeria

Weather in Almeria

March – May: Temperatures rise from an average of 15°C in March. The streets are in spring bloom, with floral ‘May crosses’ displayed around town in the first week of May.

June – August: Summers are wonderfully dry, with some 11 hours of sunshine a day in July. August is the hottest month. Remember sun cream and be aware that highs can hit 32°C.

September – November: Temperatures stay warm throughout autumn, and the seawater averages 21°C in October. This is a time for epic sunsets on the beach.

December – February: Winter brings some rain, but even January is a mild 13°C. If you’re exploring the Tabernas Desert, be aware that temperatures drop quickly in the evening.

Events in Almeria

Almeria Carnival (February to March): The lead-up to Lent is marked by all kinds of unique traditions here. Locals dress up in costume, and mimes perform in the town square. Don’t miss the procession to the beach to bury a ceremonial sardine.

The Night of San Juan (June): Head to the beach for the summer solstice. Locals jump over bonfires and take midnight dips in the sea, all to a backdrop of music and fireworks.

La Feria de Almeria (August): For nine days, Almeria celebrates its patron saint with concerts, parades, sporting events and traditional dancing.

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The best neighbourhoods in Almeria

El Zapillo

If you plan to spend lots of time sunning yourself, El Zapillo is the best area to stay in Almeria. Boasting the best of both worlds, this beachside neighbourhood is centrally located and easily reached by public transport. Head to San Miguel Beach, where you’ll find tapas bars overlooking the promenade and some of the best seafood in the city.

Good for: Beaches, seafood, convenient location

Centro

Centro is where to stay in Almeria if historical attractions are at the forefront of your itinerary. You’ll find sites such as the Alcazaba, the Cathedral of Almeria (which dates back to the 16th century) and the town hall all within walking distance. You’ll also have access to Almeria’s Central Market and the best bars at your doorstep.

Good for: Historic landmarks, bars, lively atmosphere

La Canada

While you’re a little further from the city centre and beaches here, the inns of La Canada are perfect for a peaceful slice of local life in Almeria. Pay your respects at the Antonio de Torres memorial, an homage to the inventor of the guitar as we know it today.

Good for: Quiet, local life, authenticity

Things to do in Almeria

Almeria
Getty Images/iStockphoto

Family friendly things to do

At Oasys Mini Hollywood, you won’t just find a replica Wild West town still used in film and TV. There’s also a zoo with over 800 animals and an oasis with three pools. Parque de las Familias is a large city park in El Zapillo with plenty of play equipment for children and a bar for adults — and it’s free.

Shopping

For top-notch shopping in Almeria, Calle de las Tiendas has got you covered. Along this street, you’ll find all your local and artisanal goods — preserved meats like Iberian ham and chorizo, as well as jams made of fruit from the Alpujarra Almeriense region, otherwise known as Europe’s orchard. Or wander through Almeria’s ‘Mercado Central’ (central market) during the weekly farmers market.

Take in the culture

Take a guided tour through The Refugios de la Guerra Civil, the subterranean tunnels used to protect civilians from bombing during the Spanish Civil War. Or learn about the history of the film industry in Almeria at Casa del Cine de Almeria. Prepare for your evening at a flamenco club by stopping by the Spanish Guitar Museum of Antonio de Torres. Time your trip with the ‘Yo, Flamenco’ festival in July.

Nightlife

Head to the Old Town’s Cuatro Calles for the best nightlife in Almeria. Tapas usually happens at around eight o’clock — check out any one of Almeria’s amazing restaurants for free tapas with your tipple. The Andalusian region was the birthplace of flamenco. Catch a show at the atmospheric Pena El Taranto, an ancient Arabic water reservoir where dancers have been strutting their stuff since 1963.

Places to eat

While most bars across Spain charge a small fee for tapas, in Almeria, they’re free with any drink. Casa Puga has been lining stomachs since 1906 and is considered one of the best restaurants in Almeria. Its menu hasn’t changed in 30 years. Expect grilled artichoke, chicken skewers and salted pork with warm bread.

Beaches

Sun worshippers have their choice of outstanding beaches in Almeria. Stroll along Carmen de Burgos promenade with palm trees on one side and the Mediterranean Sea on the other. Almeria is also surrounded by terrific snorkelling spots, like the remote Cala Raja. Wear suitable shoes for the walk to this secluded cove, where there are no amenities but plenty of natural splendour.

Plan your holiday to Almeria

Budget

Andalusia is still Spain’s under-the-radar tourist destination. That means it’s easy to have a cheap holiday in Almeria. A local beer will cost you around three euros (€), and a cappuccino is usually less than two. Expect to find a tasty lunch at a sit-down restaurant for about €15.

Day trips from Almeria

A two-hour bus ride takes you to Granada, home of the Alhambra, one of the world’s most famous Islamic palaces. Head two hours west along the coast to the cute village of Nerja, known for its stunning cave cathedral.

Getting around Almeria

Most of the city’s attractions are within walking distance, and bike lanes make for a safe, eco-friendly way to explore. Buses don’t reach the best beaches, so hiring a car is the best way to make the most of your Almeria holiday. BlaBlaCar, a popular ride-sharing app, is also available.

FAQs about Almeria holidays

Spanish (Castilian) is commonly used across the city. From everyday greetings to distinct local expressions, you'll probably add a few new words to your vocabulary during your city break in Almeria.
January brings the coolest conditions for an Almeria holiday. You can expect lows of 7ºC (45ºF).
The official currency in Almeria is the euro (EUR). It's helpful to have some cash with you during your trip to Almeria, but credit cards and digital payments are usually accepted by most places.
The time of year you visit, the airline you fly with, and where you stay will help influence the price you pay for your city break in Almeria. If you're looking to keep costs low, be on the lookout for special offers or last-minute deals on Almeria flights and hotels. Travelling midweek and signing up to airline loyalty programmes are other good ways to save.
July is the hottest month in Almeria, with temperatures hitting highs of 33ºC (91ºF).
How long your trip to Almeria should be depends on where you're coming from and what you plan to do. If you live close by, three to five days is enough to see the leading sights. If you have a lengthy journey, it's worth booking a week or more to discover the city and nearby areas.
While this city is considered safe to visit, the best way to enjoy a carefree holiday to Almeria is to follow a few sensible precautions. Before heading out, plan your journey to avoid getting lost. Be aware of your surroundings as you explore, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
With around 5 cm of rainfall, March is the rainiest month. If you're taking your Almeria holiday then, it's a good idea to have a few indoor activities in mind. Eat at a top-rated restaurant, unwind in a cosy cafe, or hit the shops for some retail therapy.
Almeria’s year-round sun makes it a great destination whatever the season, though it gets very hot from July to September. For a culture fix, time your holiday to Almeria with the ‘Yo, Flamenco’ Festival of Flamenco and Dance in July.
With tons of things to do in Almeria, this lively city will keep you coming back for more. Begin your exploration at leading attractions like Museum of Almeria and Cathedral of Almeria.
The tap water across Spain is considered safe to drink, but locals often prefer the taste of bottled water.

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