11 Best Thing to Do in Almería, Spain 🇪🇸 – Explore the Province

Nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the Sierra Nevada mountains, Almeria is Spain’s sunniest city and one of its best-kept secrets. This enchanting corner of Andalusia offers everything from pristine beaches and dramatic desert landscapes to Moorish fortresses and vibrant cultural experiences.

I spent three unforgettable weeks exploring Almeria’s diverse attractions, from wandering through the impressive Alcazaba fortress to swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Cabo de Gata. In this guide, I’ll share my favorite discoveries and insider tips to help you experience the very best of this underrated Spanish gem.

🏠 Best Hotels in Almeria

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Catedral Almería, Almería
• 🏨 4-Star: Exe Almería Centro, Almería
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Costasol, Almería
• 💸 Cheap: Torreluz Centro, Almería
• 🏢 Apartment: HO Puerta de Purchena By Olivencia, Almería
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Hostal Maribel, Almería
• 🏩 For Couples: La Perla, Almería

💁 Best Guided Tours

• Alcazaba of Almeria from € 15 (⭐4.8/5)
• Almeria like a Local: Customized Private Tour from € 40 (⭐ 4.7/5)
• Almeria: Visit to the Shelters of the Spanish Civil War from € 3 (⭐ 4.6/5)
• Almeria: Legends and Mysteries Evening Walking Tour from € 12 (⭐ 4.9/5)

Best Things to Do in Almeria, Spain

1. The Alcazaba

Majestic Fortress. Standing majestically on a hill overlooking Almeria, this impressive fortress was my first stop when exploring the city. Built in the 10th century by Caliph Abd al-Rahman III, it’s actually the largest Muslim fortress in Spain. As I wandered through its three distinct compounds, I was struck by how well-preserved the structure is despite being over a thousand years old. The thick defensive walls with towers, ornate palaces with courtyards, and sophisticated water system are truly remarkable engineering feats.

Budget Tip: Entry to the Alcazaba is free for European Union citizens and only €1.50 for others. It’s open Tuesday to Saturday from 9am to 9pm during high season (March-October) and Sundays from 9am to 3pm.

Historical Significance. What fascinated me most about the Alcazaba was learning how it transformed Almeria into Spain’s most important port city. Under the rule of Al-Jairan, the fortress reached its maximum splendor. The second enclosure once housed magnificent palaces built during the Taifa period when Almeria was at its height of prosperity. Though many original structures were damaged in a 1522 earthquake, the restorations have been done beautifully.

Insider Tip: For the best photos, arrive early in the morning when the light is perfect for capturing the fortress walls against the blue sky. The panoramic views from San Cristobal Hill are particularly stunning.

⭐ Best Activities

• Alcazaba of Almeria – Explore Almeria’s impressive Moorish fortress with a knowledgeable guide. Meet your guide on Calle Almanzor by the bus stop (look for the guide wearing a fuchsia shirt and coat with “CLÁRITAS TURISMO”).

2. Almeria Old Town

Living History. After exploring the Alcazaba, I made my way down to Almeria’s charming historic center. The narrow, winding streets are packed with character and local flavor. What struck me immediately was how authentic it felt – this isn’t a tourist trap but a living, breathing Spanish neighborhood.

Local Shops and Tapas. The old town is filled with independent boutiques offering everything from traditional crafts to modern souvenirs. But the real highlight? The tapas culture! Almeria is famous for its free tapas with every drink – yes, you read that correctly. Order a beer (€2-3) and you’ll receive a complimentary small plate of food.

Budget Tip: For the best free tapas experience, avoid the main tourist streets and head to where the locals go. Bar La Barca on Paseo Marítimo Carmen de Burgos offers excellent value with drinks starting at just €2.50.

Architectural Gems. While strolling through the old town, I couldn’t help but admire the beautiful buildings like the Almería Cathedral. Built in Gothic-Renaissance style, it features tranquil gardens that provide a peaceful respite from the bustling streets. The 16th-century City Hall is another architectural highlight worth seeing.

⭐ Best Activities

• Almeria like a Local: Customized Private Tour – Experience Almeria through the eyes of a local with this personalized private tour. Starting from any centrally located hotel, this customizable experience offers authentic insights into the city’s culture and hidden gems.

3. Civil War Shelters

Underground Journeyю One of the most unique and sobering experiences I had in Almeria was visiting the underground Civil War Shelters. This network of tunnels stretching nearly 4.5km was built during the Spanish Civil War to protect citizens from bombings. Almeria suffered 52 bombing raids with a total of 754 bombs dropped on the city, making these shelters literally lifesaving.

Guided Tour Experience. The tour takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, covering approximately 1km of the restored tunnels. As I descended 9 meters underground, I was amazed by the engineering achievement – these shelters could accommodate up to 40,000 people. Our guide showed us the operating theater, food storage rooms, and even pointed out children’s drawings scratched into the walls.

Budget Tip: Tickets cost just €3, but must be purchased in advance on the almeriaculturaentradas.es website. Tours are conducted in Spanish, so bring a translation app if you don’t speak the language.

⭐ Best Activities

• Almeria: Visit to the Shelters of the Spanish Civil War – Step back in time and explore the fascinating underground shelters built during the Spanish Civil War, offering a unique glimpse into Almeria’s wartime history.

4. Paseo Marítimo

Wonderful Promenade After all that history, I needed some fresh air and sunshine. The Paseo Marítimo stretches about 2km along Almeria’s beaches and offers the perfect place to relax. I spent a delightful afternoon walking along the promenade, stopping occasionally at the many cafes and bars that line the route.

English Pier. Many visitors miss El Cable Inglés, a fascinating piece of industrial heritage near the port. This iron-steel pier built by the British in 1904 was used to transport iron ore from trains to cargo ships until 1973.

Beaches. If you’re looking to cool off, Playa de El Zapillo and Playa de Costacabana are both excellent options right in the city. The water is refreshingly cool even during the hot summer months, and the beaches are well-maintained.

Insider Tip: For a truly local experience, visit Cafetería Antártida-Bar La Barca on the Paseo Marítimo for their “tardeo” (afternoon) offerings. Their fresh juices, waffles, crepes, and cocktails served in a natural pineapple are popular with locals, especially during the evening paseo.

⭐ Best Activities

• Almeria: Legends and Mysteries Evening Walking Tour – Discover the darker side of Almeria on this atmospheric evening walking tour that reveals the city’s most intriguing legends and mysterious tales.

5. Almeria Cathedral

Heart of the City. This impressive Gothic-Renaissance cathedral took my breath away. Built between 1524 and 1562, it serves a dual purpose that I found fascinating – it’s both a place of worship and a fortress designed to protect citizens from pirate attacks. The thick walls and small, high windows aren’t just architectural choices; they were defensive features against North African raiders.

Insider Tip: Look for the elaborate main entrance called Puerta Principal, which contrasts beautifully with the otherwise plain exterior walls. The interior is where the cathedral truly shines.

Budget Tip: Entry to the cathedral costs €5 (about $5.50), but it’s free on Sundays during worship hours if you don’t mind not being able to tour the entire building.

⭐ Best Activities

• Almeria: Discover the City Through its Best Films – Explore Almeria’s rich cinematic heritage on this specialized tour showcasing famous filming locations and the city’s important role in international cinema.

6. Museum of Almeria

Mysteries of Archaeology. My cultural journey continued at this fascinating archaeological museum. Reopened in its current building in 2006, it houses an impressive collection spanning from prehistoric times through the Roman period and into the Andalusian era. The museum’s most striking feature is a massive stratigraphic column that rises through all three floors to the roof.

Insider Tip: Don’t miss the sculpture of the god Bacchus found in a Roman villa in Chirivel, and the collection of Andalusian Muslim tombstones – Almeria was once the leading production center for these beautiful carved stones.

Budget Tip: Entry is completely free for EU citizens and just €1.50 for others. The museum is closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.

⭐ Best Activities

• Almeria: Private Custom Tour with a Local Guide – Enjoy a personalized exploration of Almeria with your own local guide who will tailor the experience to your interests and preferences.

7. Mercado Central a Domicilio

Fresh Market Experience. I stumbled upon one of Almeria’s best-kept secrets during my recent visit – you can have all the incredible products from the Mercado Central delivered right to your door! This innovative service has transformed how both locals and visitors can enjoy the market’s bounty without leaving their accommodation.

Local Products. What makes this service truly special is access to authentic Almerian products. The province is famous for its greenhouse-grown produce, supplying much of Spain and Europe with vegetables and fruits. Through the online market, I ordered impossibly sweet cherry tomatoes from local farms and the freshest quisquillas (small shrimp) I’ve ever tasted.

Insider Tip: Look for Isabel Fernández’s fruit and vegetable stall online – her produce is exceptional quality and she often includes seasonal specialties not found in regular supermarkets. While she only accepts cash for in-person purchases, the online platform allows card payments.

Cooking Services. The most delightful discovery was learning that some market vendors offer cooking services! After ordering fresh seafood from Pepe “el Sevillano’s” fishmonger stall, I added a note requesting it be cooked at “Café Exprés” within the market. For a small additional fee, they prepared my purchase perfectly and I picked it up ready to eat.

8. El Cable Inglés

Industrial Marvel. Standing at the edge of Playa de las Almadrabillas, I found myself mesmerized by the impressive iron structure jutting out into the Mediterranean Sea. El Cable Inglés is not your typical tourist attraction, but this remarkable piece of industrial heritage quickly became one of my favorite spots in Almeria. Built between 1902 and 1904, this loading pier once connected the train station directly to cargo ships, revolutionizing how iron ore was transported from the mines.

Historical Significance. As I walked along the recently renovated pedestrian walkway, I couldn’t help but imagine the bustling activity that once took place here. This pier was constructed by The Alquife Mines and Railway Company Limited, a Scottish company that needed a more efficient way to transport iron from the Alquife mines in Granada to ships bound for Glasgow. What used to take 10 days to load 8,000 tonnes onto a ship was reduced to less than 10 hours with this engineering marvel!

Budget Tip: Entry to El Cable Inglés is completely free, making it one of the best value attractions in Almeria. It’s open Tuesday through Sunday from 9am to 7:30 pm, but closed on Mondays.

⭐ Best Activities

• Private Custom Tour with a Local Guide: Almeria – Get an insider’s perspective of Almeria with this customizable private tour led by a knowledgeable local, perfect for discovering hidden gems and authentic experiences.

Things to Do in Almería with Kids

1. Aqua Aventura Park

Unforgettable Journey. When the Andalusian sun gets too intense, there’s no better family escape than Aqua Aventura Park. I visited with my niece and nephew (ages 8 and 10) during a particularly hot day, and it was the highlight of their trip. Located in Roquetas de Mar, about 20 minutes from Almeria city, this water park offers the perfect mix of thrills and relaxation.

Various Entertainment. The park features water slides for all courage levels – from gentle ones that my cautious nephew loved to the heart-stopping Kamikaze that had my adventurous niece screaming with delight. What impressed me most was the cleanliness of the facilities and the attentiveness of the lifeguards.

Budget Tip: Buy tickets online at least a day in advance to save about 15%. I paid €22 per adult and €16 per child online, compared to €26 and €19 at the gate.

2. Cabo de Gata Boat Trips

Magical Journey. For a family adventure that combines education with excitement, I highly recommend a boat trip along the stunning Cabo de Gata coastline. We booked a 3-hour excursion with Cabo de Gata Adventures, departing from San José harbor.

Fascinating Nature. The glass-bottomed boat gave the kids a fascinating underwater view without getting wet (though they eventually couldn’t resist jumping in during our swimming stop). As we cruised past volcanic cliffs and hidden coves, our guide pointed out interesting geological formations and shared stories about pirates who once hid in these waters.

Insider Tip: Sit on the left side of the boat when departing from San José for the best views of the coastline. And don’t forget underwater cameras – the snorkeling spot at Cala de San Pedro offered amazing visibility and plenty of colorful fish.

3. Western Film Studios

Homeland of Films. One of our most memorable family days was spent at Mini Hollywood in the Tabernas Desert. This preserved film set where classics like “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” were filmed offers a perfect mix of entertainment for all ages.

Filming Attributes. The kids were thrilled by the scheduled Wild West shows featuring bank robberies and gunfights (don’t worry – they’re silly enough not to be scary). Meanwhile, I appreciated the film history and the chance to walk through sets used in movies I grew up watching.

Insider Tip: Many families miss the zoo section included in the ticket price. While not huge, it features animals adapted to desert life and provides a nice additional activity.

4. Parque de las Familias

A Green Oasis. As I stepped into Parque de las Familias, I was immediately struck by its vastness. Covering an impressive 95,045 square meters – equivalent to 15 football fields – this sprawling park is the largest in Andalusia dedicated exclusively to families and children.

Historical Transformation. What was once agricultural land, then a sports complex and even a fairground, has been brilliantly transformed into this urban paradise. Opened in November 2014, the park has quickly become a local favorite and a must-visit for tourists with children.

Insider Tip: Visit the park early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds. The play equipment can get hot under the Andalusian sun, so these times are more comfortable for children.

Family-Friendly Facilities. As a parent, I appreciated the thoughtful design of the park. Clean restrooms, plenty of benches, and wide pathways make it easy to navigate with strollers. The entire park is fenced for safety, with four access gates that are monitored during opening hours.

Free Things to Do in Almeria City

1. Cabo de Gata Natural Park

Magical Landscapes. My journey to this stunning coastal paradise left me breathless. As Spain’s largest protected coastal area, Cabo de Gata offers a unique blend of volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and rich biodiversity. I spent a full day exploring, and it wasn’t nearly enough.

Beach Hopping. The park boasts some of Europe’s most beautiful and unspoiled beaches. I started at Playa de los Genoveses, a crescent of golden sand framed by rugged cliffs. The crystal-clear turquoise water was irresistible, and I couldn’t help but take a refreshing dip. Later, I hiked to Los Muertos Beach, which, despite its ominous name (“The Dead Beach”), was teeming with life and natural beauty.

Water Activities. For the more adventurous, Cabo de Gata offers excellent opportunities for kayaking and snorkeling. I rented a kayak (€20 for 2 hours) from a local outfitter in San José and paddled along the coastline, discovering hidden coves and marveling at the dramatic rock formations.

Hiking Trails. The park features numerous hiking trails suitable for all levels. I particularly enjoyed the route from Las Negras to Cala de San Pedro, a secluded beach only accessible by foot or boat. The 2-hour hike offers breathtaking coastal views and passes through aromatic herb-scented hills.

2. Tabernas Desert

Space Landscape. Just a short drive from Almeria city, I found myself in Europe’s only desert. The landscape is surreal – vast expanses of ochre-colored earth, dotted with cacti and agave plants. It felt like stepping onto another planet.

Western Film Sets. The Tabernas Desert’s claim to fame is its role in countless Western movies. I visited Mini Hollywood, one of the preserved film sets, and felt transported back in time to the Wild West. The entrance fee is €22.95 for adults and €12.95 for children, which includes shows and access to a small zoo.

Budget Tip: If you’re on a tight budget, you can see some of the film sets from the road without paying entrance fees. The desert landscape itself is free to explore.

Adventure Activities. For an adrenaline rush, I opted for a 4WD desert tour (€45 for 2 hours). The driver expertly navigated the rugged terrain, providing thrilling moments and stunning vistas. Horseback riding is another popular option, with tours starting from €30 per hour.

Here’s a comparison of adventure activities in the Tabernas Desert:

[/about_table]

Activity	Duration	Price	Difficulty
4WD Tour	2 hours	€45	Easy
Horseback Riding	1 hour	€30	Moderate
Guided Hike	3 hours	€25	Moderate-Hard
Film Set Visit	Half-day	€22.95	Easy

[/about_table]

⭐ Best Tours

• Horse Riding Tour: Tabernas Desert (2h, All Levels) – Experience Europe’s only desert on horseback with this 2-hour riding tour suitable for all experience levels through the iconic Tabernas Desert landscapes.
• Almeria: Tabernas Desert 4x4 Tour – Explore the rugged terrain of the Tabernas Desert in a 4×4 vehicle, visiting filming locations and experiencing the unique desert ecosystem that has featured in countless Western movies.

3. San Cristobal Hill

Climbing to the Top. After the desert heat, I was ready for some cooler air. San Cristobal Hill, located right in Almeria city, provided the perfect respite. The hike to the top is moderately challenging but rewarding.

Panoramic Views. As I reached the summit, I was greeted by breathtaking panoramic views of Almeria city, the port, and the Mediterranean Sea stretching to the horizon. The Alcazaba, which I had visited earlier, looked even more impressive from this vantage point.

Sacred Heart Monument. At the top of the hill stands an imposing 5-meter-high marble statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Regardless of your religious beliefs, it’s an impressive sight and a popular spot for photos.

Budget Tip: This is one of the best free things to do in Almeria. The hike and views cost nothing, making it perfect for budget travelers.

Hiking Essentials. Here’s a quick list of what to bring for outdoor activities in Almeria:

• Sturdy walking shoes
• Sunscreen and hat
• Plenty of water
• Light, breathable clothing
• Camera (for those unforgettable views!)

4. Beaches of Almería

Urban Beaches. Just steps from Almeria city center, I found myself walking along three kilometers of pristine urban beaches. Playa de San Miguel stretches for a full kilometer, offering that perfect balance of convenience and beauty. The fine golden sand felt warm between my toes as families around me set up colorful umbrellas. What impressed me most was how clean the water was – crystal clear and refreshingly cool even in March.

Playa de los Genoveses. This might be my favorite beach in all of Spain. Located in a protected bay within Cabo de Gata, its undeveloped shoreline and crystal-clear waters made me feel like I’d discovered a secret paradise. I spent hours snorkeling along the rocky edges, spotting colorful fish darting between seagrass. The beach has no facilities, which is exactly what preserves its natural beauty.

Playa de las Salinas. Stretching over five kilometers, this is the longest beach in the natural park. What makes it truly special are the working salt flats nearby, where mountains of salt create an otherworldly landscape. I watched flamingos wading in the shallow waters – a surprising sight against the backdrop of such an arid region.

Family-Friendly Options. Here I saw families enjoying the mix of sand and small pebbles. The beach has several playgrounds right on the sand, and you can rent pedal boats for around €15 per hour. The long promenade comes alive in the evenings with bouncy castles and street performers.

Water Activities. For adventure seekers, Almeria’s coastline offers plenty of options. I joined a kayaking tour from San José in Cabo de Gata (€35 for a 3-hour excursion) that included snorkeling equipment and two swimming stops. Paddling along the volcanic cliffs and into hidden caves was an unforgettable experience.

Seasonal Activities in Almeria

1. Spring Awakening

Blooming Time. As I wandered through Almeria in April, the almond trees burst with delicate white blossoms, creating a stunning contrast against the blue sky. Spring (March-May) offers the perfect balance of warm days and cool evenings. I spent mornings exploring the Alcazaba without sweating through my shirt, and afternoons lounging on uncrowded beaches where the Mediterranean gradually warms to swimming temperatures.

Nature Trails. Spring transforms Almeria’s landscapes into a photographer’s dream. I hiked through Sierra Alhamilla, just 20 minutes from the city, where wildflowers carpeted the hillsides in vibrant purples, yellows, and reds. The biodiversity here is remarkable – I spotted several bird species including eagles and hoopoes. The trail to El Chullo peak offered panoramic views of both mountains and sea, with temperatures perfect for hiking (around 18-22°C).

Top Spring Activities in Almeria:

• Almond blossom photography in Sierra Alhamilla (February-March)
• Bird watching in Cabo de Gata wetlands during migration season
• Hiking the Sendero de la Molina trail when wildflowers peak (April)
• Attending the Cruces de Mayo (May Crosses) festival in early May
• Cycling the Via Verde route with perfect temperatures
• Exploring the Alcazaba without summer crowds

Insider Tip: For the best views of Easter processions, find a spot along Paseo de Almería about an hour before the scheduled start time. Local cafés along the route offer table reservations with drinks for around €15-20 per person.

2. Summer Beach Life

Holidays at Sea. When I returned in June, Almeria was transformed. The beaches along Paseo Marítimo buzzed with energy as families set up colorful umbrellas on Playa del Zapillo. Water sports vendors appeared along the shore, offering kayak rentals (€15/hour) and paddleboard lessons (€25/session).

Nightlife Revival. Summer evenings in Almeria have a magical quality. As temperatures cool after sunset, the city comes alive with outdoor dining and entertainment. I discovered the joy of “tardeo” – the local tradition of starting evening festivities early (around 5-7pm) with drinks and tapas. The Plaza de la Constitución filled with locals of all ages enjoying live music and street performances. The beachfront chiringuitos (beach bars) like Chiringuito Cabo de Gata stay open until 2am, serving cocktails (€6-8) and fresh seafood as waves crash nearby.

Must-Try Summer Activities:

• Night swimming at Playa San Miguel (lifeguards until 9pm in July-August)
• Sunset boat tours from Almeria Port (€35-45)
• Stargazing tours in Cabo de Gata’s dark sky areas (€20)
• Watermelon tasting at Mercado Central (local specialty)
• Open-air cinema screenings in Plaza de la Constitución (some free)
• Dawn fishing trips with local fishermen (€40)
• Mojácar’s White Night festival (late July)

Summer Festivals. The Fair and Festival of Almeria in August turned the city into one giant celebration. I joined locals at the Feria de Mediodía (Midday Fair), where bars set up special stalls in the city center serving tapas and cold drinks. As night fell, the action moved to the fairgrounds with rides, music, and dancing that continued until dawn.

Common Tourist Mistake: Many visitors underestimate the intensity of Almeria’s summer sun. Even on seemingly mild 30°C (86°F) days, I got badly sunburned after just 30 minutes without protection. Always apply high-SPF sunscreen repeatedly.

3. Autumn Adventures

Fall Season. By September, the summer crowds had vanished, but the sea remained warm enough for swimming. I took advantage of the perfect hiking weather to explore Cabo de Gata Natural Park. The sunset sailing tour I joined (€45) offered breathtaking views of the volcanic coastline with complimentary cava – all the more enjoyable without the summer crowds.

Harvest Celebrations. Autumn in Almeria brings a celebration of the region’s agricultural bounty. I visited the Fiesta de la Vendimia (Grape Harvest Festival) in Laujar de Andarax, about an hour’s drive from Almeria city. Local wineries opened their doors for tastings, with glasses of excellent Almerian wine costing just €2-3. The traditional grape-stomping ceremony was a highlight, with participants (myself included!) rolling up their pants to crush grapes the old-fashioned way. My feet were purple for days, but the experience was worth it!

Autumn Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss:

• Olive harvest participation at local farms (October-November)
• Watching flamingo migrations at Cabo de Gata salt flats
• Sampling “migas” (traditional shepherd’s dish) at mountain taverns
• Attending the San Marcos mushroom festival in Vélez-Blanco
• Photographing the changing colors in Sierra Nevada foothills
• Wine tasting in Laujar de Andarax during harvest season
• Exploring the Tabernas Desert film sets without summer crowds

Mushroom Hunting. October and November bring occasional rainfall to the Sierra de los Filabres mountains, creating perfect conditions for wild mushrooms. I joined a guided mushroom foraging excursion with Naturalmeria (€35 per person), where our expert guide taught us to identify edible varieties like níscalos and boletus. The day ended at a local restaurant where the chef prepared our findings into a delicious mushroom risotto. The combination of outdoor adventure and culinary reward made this one of my favorite autumn activities.

Budget Tip: Many outdoor activity providers offer “end of season” discounts in October. I booked a kayaking tour in Cabo de Gata for €30 instead of the usual €45 by visiting in mid-October.

Day Trips from Almeria

1. Mojácar Village

Fairytale Village. Just an hour’s drive from Almeria city, Mojácar is a whitewashed hilltop village that feels like stepping into a postcard. As I wandered its narrow, cobblestone streets, I was enchanted by the vibrant flowerpots hanging from windows and the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean below. The Plaza Nueva is the heart of the village, where I enjoyed a coffee for €2 while soaking in the panoramic vistas.

Adventures in Mojácar Pueblo. Don’t miss the Church of Santa María, a simple yet charming 16th-century structure that reflects the town’s Moorish past. I also climbed to the Mirador de la Plaza del Parterre, a viewpoint offering incredible photo opportunities of the surrounding valleys.

Budget Tip: Parking in Mojácar can be expensive near the center (€2-3 per hour). Instead, park on the outskirts and take a short walk uphill to explore.

Insider Tip: Visit Mojácar early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy fewer crowds. Many shops and restaurants close for siesta between 2pm and 5pm.

⭐ Best Activities

• From Garrucha, Mojacar & Vera: Boat Cruise Guide Tour – Enjoy the stunning Almeria coastline from the water with this guided boat cruise departing from Garrucha, Mojacar, and Vera, offering beautiful views and swimming opportunities.

2. Pulpí Geode

Underground Treasure. Located about 90 minutes from Almeria, this natural wonder is one of Europe’s largest accessible geodes – and it’s absolutely worth the trip. Discovered in 1999, this giant crystal cave is hidden inside an old silver mine in Pilar de Jaravía. As I descended into the mine, I was awestruck by the enormous gypsum crystals sparkling like diamonds.

Guided Tours. The geode can only be visited with a guided tour, which lasts about an hour. Tickets cost €22 for adults and €10 for children. My guide explained how these crystals formed millions of years ago, making it both an educational and visually stunning experience.

Common Tourist Mistake: Many visitors forget to book tickets in advance – tours often sell out weeks ahead during high season. Reserve your spot online at least two weeks before your visit.

⭐ Best Activities

• Oleoalmanzora Guided Tour & Tasting + Pulpí Giant Geode – Combine culinary and natural wonders with this tour featuring olive oil tasting at Oleoalmanzora and a visit to the spectacular Pulpí Giant Geode, one of Europe’s largest accessible crystal caves.

3. Sorbas Caves (Cuevas de Sorbas)

Wonderfull Labyrinth. For an underground adventure closer to Almeria (just 45 minutes away), I highly recommend exploring Sorbas Caves. These gypsum caves are a natural labyrinth of tunnels, stalactites, and sparkling formations. I opted for the basic tour (€16), which was perfect for beginners and families.

Best Tours. For thrill-seekers, there’s an adventure tour (€30) that involves crawling through narrow passages and rappelling down small drops – not for the faint-hearted but incredibly rewarding!

Budget Tip: Bring sturdy shoes with good grip – rentals are available but cost an extra €3.

FAQ

What part of the city is best for walking?

The Paseo de Almería is a lovely part of the city for walking, shopping, and enjoying local cafes.

What does Almería offer beyond beaches?

Almería offers culture, history, and nature. It’s home to the Almería Museum, historic sites, and vibrant life even beyond summer in Almería.

How do I get to Almería?

You can travel from Madrid to Almería or from other cities like Alicante. Many people visit Almería for a relaxing escape in Almería province.

What nature spots are near Almería?

Visit Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park and explore nearby desert areas inland, both well worth a visit.

Are there charming villages near Almería?

Yes, Lucainena de las Torres and San Juan de los Terreros are beautiful villages in Almería, perfect for a day trip.