Almería (province) Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Almería (province) with our comprehensive travel guide that covers everything from cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, accommodations, and more.
- Introduction to Almería (Province)
- List of Places to Visit in Almería (Province)
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Almería (Province)
- Best Things to Do in Almería (Province): Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Almería (Province)
- Food and Drink Scene of Almería (Province)
- Where to Stay in Almería (Province): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Almería (Province): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Almería (Province)
- Best Time to Visit Almería (Province)
- Do’s and Don’ts of Almería (Province)
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Almería (Province): Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Almería (Province)
- Where to Go Next from Almería (Province): Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Almería (Province)
Almería is a province located in the easternmost part of Andalusia, Spain. It is known for its stunning Mediterranean coast, natural parks, and deserts. The province is a perfect destination for travelers who want to experience authentic Spanish culture, history, and nature.
List of Places to Visit in Almería (Province)
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Alcazaba of Almería: A Moorish fortress built in the 10th century.
- Cathedral of Almería: A 16th-century cathedral with Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles.
- Museo de Almería: A museum with exhibits showcasing the province’s history, from prehistoric times to the present day.
- Casa del Cine: A museum dedicated to the cinema industry in Almería.
- Civil War Interpretation Centre: A museum that tells the story of Almería during the Spanish Civil War.
Natural Attractions of Almería (Province): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park: A protected area with untouched beaches, stunning cliffs, and crystal-clear waters.
- Tabernas Desert: A desert landscape that has been used as the backdrop for many Western movies.
- Sierra de María-Los Vélez Natural Park: A mountain range with hiking trails, caves, and canyons.
- Karst en Yesos de Sorbas Natural Area: A unique geological formation that boasts of limestone caves and canyons.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Almería (Province)
- Rambla de Almería: A 10-kilometer trail along a dry riverbed that takes you through the city and its surroundings.
- El Plomo Route: A 16-kilometer trail with views of the Sierra de Los Filabres mountain range.
- Ruta del Agua: A 12-kilometer trail that takes you through several lagoons and river courses.
- GR7 Trail: A 33-kilometer trail that stretches from the province’s northern end to the south.
Best Things to Do in Almería (Province): Activities and Tours
- Playa de los Muertos: A white-sand beach with turquoise water and stunning views of the mountains.
- Mini Hollywood: A theme park where you can experience the Western movies shot in Almería.
- La Chanca: A historic neighborhood in the city of Almería that dates back to the 19th century.
- Granada Day Trip: A tour that takes you to the stunning city of Granada, home of the Alhambra.
Week-Long Itinerary for Almería (Province)
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Explore the city of Almería and visit its historical attractions such as the Alcazaba, Cathedral, and Civil War Interpretation Centre. |
| Day 2 | Head to the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park and enjoy its beaches, cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. |
| Day 3 | Visit Tabernas Desert and experience the landscapes that served as the backdrop for Western movies. |
| Day 4 | Hike the Ruta del Agua trail and experience the stunning lagoons and river courses. |
| Day 5 | Take a day trip to Granada and explore the Alhambra. |
| Day 6 | Head to Sierra de María-Los Vélez Natural Park and hike the El Plomo Route for stunning views of the mountains. |
| Day 7 | Relax and enjoy the local cuisine in Almería city. |
Food and Drink Scene of Almería (Province)
Must-Try Dishes
- Gachas: A creamy porridge made with flour, water, and olive oil.
- Migas: A dish made with breadcrumbs, garlic, and olive oil.
- Tapas: A traditional Spanish dish of small appetizers. In Almería, you can try tapas de pescado (fish tapas) or tapas de mariscos (seafood tapas).
- Olla de trigo: A stew made with wheat, vegetables, and meat.
Local Beverages
- Tinto de Verano: A refreshing drink made with red wine, soda, and lemon.
- Cerveza Alhambra: A local beer produced in the city of Granada.
- Brandy de Jerez: A brandy distilled in Jerez, a city in nearby Cádiz province.
Where to Stay in Almería (Province): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Hotel Nuevo Torreluz: Located in the heart of Almería city, this hotel features comfortable rooms and a lovely terrace.
- Hotel Cortijo El Sotillo: A country house located in Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, featuring charming rustic-style rooms and an outdoor pool.
- Hostel Aire de Almería: A simple but cozy hostel in Almería city that offers affordable rooms and a shared kitchen.
What to Buy in Almería (Province): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Ceramics: The province is known for its pottery and ceramic crafts.
- Olive Oil: Almería produces some of the finest olive oil in Spain.
- Ham: Iberian ham from nearby regions is considered a delicacy in Spain.
Local Culture and Customs of Almería (Province)
- Siesta: It is a common practice in the province to take a mid-day nap or rest during the summer months.
- Flamenco: Almería province is known for its flamenco tradition, which is celebrated in many festivals and events.
- Semana Santa: Holy Week is celebrated with religious processions and traditions.
Best Time to Visit Almería (Province)
The best time to visit Almería is between September and June, when the weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds are low. The summer months (July and August) can be hot and crowded.
Do’s and Don’ts of Almería (Province)
Do:
- Try the local cuisine, especially the tapas.
- Take a siesta during the hottest hours of the day.
- Explore the natural parks and outdoor attractions.
Don’t:
- Be loud or disruptive in residential areas during siesta time.
- Leave valuables unattended on the beach.
- Wear revealing clothing in religious sites.
Safety and Health
Safety in Almería (Province)
Almería is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it is advisable to take normal precautions against theft and pickpocketing in crowded areas.
Health in Almería (Province)
There are no major health risks associated with traveling to Almería. However, it is recommended to apply sunscreen, stay hydrated, and follow basic hygiene practices.
Getting to Almería (Province): Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Almería (Province)
- Almería Airport (LEI)
Bus Stations Near Almería (Province)
- Almería Bus Station
Other Options
- Train: There is a train that runs from Almería to other major cities in Spain.
- Car: Almería is accessible via the A-7 highway that runs along the Mediterranean coast.
How to Get Around in Almería (Province)
The best way to get around Almería is by car. However, there are also public transportation options such as buses and trains.
Where to Go Next from Almería (Province): Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Granada: Home of the Alhambra, Granada is only a few hours’ drive from Almería.
- Málaga: Known for its beaches and vibrant culture, Málaga is a perfect destination for a day trip from Almería.
- Mojacar: A charming white village located on a hilltop overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
Conclusion
Almería is a destination that is perfect for travelers who want to explore Spain’s unique mix of culture, history, and nature. From stunning beaches to natural parks, from traditional food to flamenco shows, Almería has something to offer to everyone. Whether you want to relax and unwind or go on an adventure, Almería has it all!
