Reasons to make a trip to Almeria

Posted on 15 November 2021

Southern Spain is full of wonderful locations to visit and one that is certainly worth your attention is Almería. This lovely city on the Spanish coast is an easy drive from Malaga, taking you right along the sea in your Malaga car rental, making Almería a great option for a day trip or longer visit when exploring the wider Andalucia region. In Almería, there’s a little something for everyone, with top attractions, great food, and much more to go along with the gloriously sunny weather. Liking the sound of it so far? Read on to discover a number of reasons you should make the trip to Almería.

It has a fascinating history

Founded in A.D. 955, Almería has a rich and fascinating history just waiting to be explored. It was once a naval base for the Caliphate of Córdoba, spent time under Moorish rule, witnessed numerous sieges, and became part of the famed Catholic monarchy of Queen Isabella I of Castile and King Ferdinand II of Aragon. There are reminders of its epic history throughout the city, including many that visitors can enjoy today.

Perhaps the most famous is the glorious Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress built way back in the 10^th-century that overlooks the city. The site is truly impressive and has unsurprisingly been utilised in a number of film and TV projects, including Game of Thrones. In Almería, you can also get a further look at the city’s history by visiting the immense 16^th-century cathedral, the Museum of Almería, and underground shelters from the Spanish Civil War.

Karen, a Spain travel specialist from the site Spain Less Traveled, shared with us her thoughts on Almería’s historic nature: “The region’s capital, Almería city is a very Spanish city filled with so much history, right on the Mediterranean Sea. The Alcazaba there is one of the best-preserved Moorish fortresses in all of Spain. The historic centre is charming and easy to navigate, and with the absence of mass tourism, has a true local vibe.”

It has wonderful beaches

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The weather in Almería is exquisite so spending some quality time at the beach is a popular option. The good news is that there are some brilliant beaches to enjoy. Zapillo beach stretches right across the city front, conveniently located near lovely places to eat and drink while staring out across the water. Nearby Cabo de Gata Natural Park is also a delight for beach lovers. With its desert-like climate, you will need to bring plenty of water, but this majestic coastal area is a true marvel boasting a number of secret beaches to relax on.

Cristina, from the travel blog, My Little World of Travelling, spoke to us about the quality of the beaches being part of what makes Almería so special: “Almería is perfect for anyone who is looking for an authentic experience and unique natural features. You cannot miss visiting Almería’s desert and the beautiful Cabo de Gata – Níjar Natural Park which has some of the best beaches in Southern Spain.”

It has delicious cuisine

Almería doesn’t let its Andalucia counterparts down when it comes to cuisine, offering a great variety of delicious local food and delicacies. Almería has been named the Gastronomic Capital of Spain in the past and it’s easy to see why. The tapas are top-notch, and free in many places when you buy a drink, and its seafood offerings are impossible to resist.

Ali, from the travel blog, Travel Made Simple, highlighted Almería’s food when speaking to us: “Almería was an unexpected surprise. I think it’s an underrated city not many people know about, which means there are fewer tourists. We especially loved trying different tapas restaurants, definitely a fun experience in Almería. If you’re visiting during the first few months of the year, be sure to try the Raf tomatoes, a local speciality. Food is always a good reason to travel, and Almería is a great choice for food travel in Spain.”

Karen, from Spain Less Traveled, also highlights Almería’s tapas offerings: “Foodies love Almería’s tapas scene. Unlike its more famous neighbour, Granada, in Almería, you get to choose your free tapa when you order a drink. Perfect for adventurous foodies who are looking for variety and picky eaters alike!”

It boasts natural wonders

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For nature lovers, Almería is a brilliant place to be. From the city, you can set out and explore two nearby treasures that won’t fail to amaze. The previously mentioned Cabo de Gata is a natural park and the largest protected coastal area in Andalucia. Its wild and rugged landscape is something you don’t see every day, featuring ancient geological features and Europe’s only hot desert climate.

Nat and Rob, from the travel blog Love and Road, have been to Cabo de Gata and spoke to us about what they enjoyed most about it: “Cabo de Gata was love at first sight! A Spanish friend had recommended it to us as her favourite place in Spain for summer, and she couldn’t be more right. The nature here is incredibly beautiful, the mix of the arid landscape and the blue sea is hypnotizing. On top of that, Gabo de Gata offers many beaches for you to discover. You can choose too from a busy beach town or stay alone almost in the wild (or do both, why not?!). The best way to explore the National Park is by car, and it’s worth driving to Almería, spending a few days there and then going beach hopping in Cabo de Gata”.

A relatively short drive inland also takes you to the magnificent Sierra Nevada mountain range, containing the highest point in Spain. If you enjoy skiing or hiking it’s the perfect place to be and a lovely location to relax in while enjoying the beauty of nature. If you visit Almería, you can enjoy the beaches of Andalucia and the mountains of Sierra Nevada on the same day.

Speaking about Almería’s natural landscapes and gems just outside the city, Karen from Spain Less Traveled shares: “Beyond the city limits, the province of Almería has so many gems that it is hard to pick one favourite. The Cabo de Gata is a beautiful nature reserve with some of Spain’s only wild Mediterranean coastline. The villages of the Alpujarra Almerense are full of charm and local traditions. And Europe’s only desert, around Tabernas, is located in Almería province. In this small town, many spaghetti westerns have been filmed.”

There is lots to see and do

The list of fun things to see and do in Almería is endless. Beyond some of the delights we have already mentioned, such as the historic sites, beaches, and nature parks, in Almería, you can also try activities such as kayaking, caving and diving or visit the museums, Arabic baths, and kids attractions such as Parque de las Familias. How about taking in some traditional flamenco dancing? Flamenco is an incredibly dramatic and entertaining dance and a traditional form of entertainment in this part of the world.

While there is plenty to see and do, you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg in the process, which is something that Paulina, from the blog Visit Southern Spain, spoke to us about when describing what she loves about Almería:

“My favourite thing about Almería is that it is relatively low key and that it’s a great destination to explore an Andalusian town on a budget. Indeed, the city is not as touristy as Malaga or Granada, hence you can witness the authentic Andalusian flavour in the narrow streets of the city. My favourite part is definitely the fortress and it provides glorious views over the sea. Next to that, I really enjoy the numerous terraces of Almería”

Cristina, from My Little World of Travelling, shared with us that while the city is calm and peaceful there is plenty to see and do: “My favourite thing about Almería is the charm and tranquil atmosphere of the city that is preserved in its streets and historic buildings. Almería is often underrated, and therefore, less visited by tourists who opt to explore popular Andalusian cities such as Seville. However, you’ll be amazed by all the different activities you can do in the city.”

It has beautiful scenery

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When on holiday, lots of sun and a comfortable place to relax in are key requirements for many but it always helps when you can add beautiful scenery to the mix as well. Almería certainly has its charms in this regard, with a mountainous backdrop on one side and relaxing sea views on the other. With the intimidating Alcazaba and its ancient walls looming over the city, a lovely picture is certainly painted. Almería is a city of great contrasts with the mountains, desert, old-world architecture and beaches, and it all makes for a lovely setting to relax in that you won’t forget anytime soon.

Why you should visit Almería in Spain

It has a fascinating history
It has wonderful beaches
It has delicious cuisine
It boasts natural wonders
There is lots to see and do
It has beautiful scenery

You won’t be bored in Almería that’s for sure. Whether you want to visit for a day or more, the city and its surrounding area boast everything you need for a memorable holiday. If you like the sound of the city, take a look at our itinerary for 48 hours in Almería and start planning your trip to Andalucia.

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