7 Best Things to Do and See in Almeria

Almeria City is located on the southeast corner of Spain’s Mediterranean coast and offers visitors a compact yet engaging city to explore with many sites worth checking out!

Historic sites include the Alcazaba, the largest fortification built by the Arab dynasties in Spain, followed by the impressive Cathedral of the Incarnation.

But it is also a city marked by the wounds of the Spanish Civil War where you can still delve into the darkest past through the underground galleries in the basement of the city center, which served as refuges in the Civil War.

How much time should you spend in Almeria? You can easily see the most popular attractions in one day; however, visiting Almeria City for 2-3 days is more appropriate to fully enjoy each attraction without rushing. That way, you can also better soak up the city’s atmosphere.

#2 Visit Almeria Cathedral

Visiting the Cathedral of Almeria (Spanish: Catedral de la Encarnación de Almería) takes you on a journey through 2000 years of Christian history and is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Almeria!

The magnificent monument, built in the 17th century, is of Gothic and Renaissance style and looks like a cathedral fortress.

Entrance tickets to the Cathedral are reasonably priced (under €10) and give you access to the Las Puras Monastery, just a couple of steps outside the Cathedral.

Moreover, the staff provides an audio guide covering many languages, telling the story of Almeria Cathedral and informative descriptions of the old religious paintings and architecture you’ll discover in the interior. I recommend it if you don’t want to miss any details.

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 14:30 and 16:00 to 19:00. Sunday from 15:00 to 18:00

Top Food Places near the Cathedral: La Mala Tortillería

#3 Explore El Cable Inglés

El Cable Inglés is a 1000-meter-long mineral loading dock built in 1904, following the teachings of French engineer Gustave Eiffel. Today, it is an excellent symbol of Almeria’s mining era and, therefore, a historical place to learn more about the city’s industrial past. 

No wonder the pedestrian promenade was declared a Site of Cultural interest by the Government of Andalusia in 1998 for its technical and historical value. 

You have splendid views of the city, the port, and the sea! Moreover, from its viewpoint, you can see the entire Zapillo beach, the Alcazaba, and even Cabo de Gata! 

The entrance to the sight is free; however, you must make a reservation (I recommend at least a week in advance) on their website to guarantee your visit. Get your Free Registration Pass

#4 Take a Break at Constitution Square

Almeria’s Constitution Square, also known as “Plaza Vieja”, is a rectangular square with arcades, palm trees, bars, and shops. It also houses the Town Hall and the Monument to the Martyrs of Liberty. 

For the best views of Constitution Square, visit the Almeria Heritage Interpretation Center, located in an old Police House. Its entrance is free, and you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the city’s past and current traditions. It’s worth the visit! 

It is the perfect place for a coffee in the morning or a “Caña” (small glass of beer) in the afternoon. 

If you have time, consider visiting the square at night when it is even more attractive because of its illumination. 

Top Food Places near Constitution Square: Tapas Bar Casa Puga / Tapas Bar Jovellanos 16 / Restaurant Cuatro Hojas

#5 Go for a Stroll on Rambla de Almeria

Going for a stroll on Almeria’s boulevard is one of the best ways to see the city!

It is a long, spacious avenue with palm trees on both sides, ending at the Ferris wheel by the sea. The boulevard holds various events and activities (for example, live music) and is the perfect place for a pleasant walk in the evening. 

Within a 3-minute walk on “Calle Rambla Obispo Orberá”, you’ll get to the Central Market of Almeria (Spanish: Mercado Central de Almería), where you can explore the different market stalls selling local produce, including fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, meat, dairy, and bakery.

Opening Hours Central Market: Monday to Saturday from 9:00 to 15:00. Closed on Sundays

Top Food Places near Rambla de Almeria: Al.cioccolato / Bar La Esquinica

#6 Learn more about the Shelters of the Spanish Civil War

Witness the most significant Civil War shelters in Spain and get an insight into what people went through during the war while hiding underground.

Most of the guided tours are offered in Spanish language only. However, visiting the Civil War Shelters is still something you’ll only experience here. If you decide to go, book your tickets in advance, as it’s a popular sight to visit.

Also, check out Puerta de Purchena and Paseo de Almeria (shopping street), which are only a 5-minute walk away.

Top Food Places nearby: Restaurant Alquímico / Restaurant Stanley & de Marco / CRAFT Specialty Coffee / Bar Bonillo

#7 Explore Cabo de Gata Natural Park

The Natural Park of Cabo de Gata is a breathtaking wild desert with sandy beaches and stunning viewpoints, and it is only a 50-minute drive from Almeria’s city center. 

Exploring Cabo de Gata by car is your best option since you can drive along the lovely coastline and quickly get from one scenic beach to the next. There are also various trails along the coast worth exploring! 

Best Things to Do at Cabo de Gata: 

• Visit the lighthouse 
• Go to the beach 
• Go snorkeling/kayaking
• Trek the mountains

Top Food Places at Cabo de Gata: Pizzeria La Góndola / Tapas bar Abaceria San José / Bar Sobre la Marcha / Restaurant La Villa Agua Amarga

FAQs- Frequently Asked Questions

Where do you fly to for Almeria? Almeria Airport (LEI)

Car hire Almeria Airport: Rent a car at Almeria Airport

How far is Cabo de Gata from Almeria Airport? 20.5 kilometers (20 minutes by car)

How far is Roquetas de Mar from Almeria Airport? 35 kilometers (30 minutes by car)

What is the main shopping street in Almeria? Paseo de Almeria