Things to Do in Almería City
Known as “Almería, where the sun spends the winter”, visiting Almería means discovering a city with more than 300 days of sunshine a year. Although the province is famous for its 200+ kilometres of beaches, the only desert in continental Europe, the Desierto de Tabernas, and the Parque Natural de Cabo de Gata-Níjar, the city itself has a cultural richness that often goes unnoticed. So grab a pen and paper and start noting down all the things to do in Almería city.
Founded in 955 by Abderramán III, Almería became one of the most important ports of al-Ándalus and reached its golden age in the 11th century as a major commercial and cultural hub. Today it’s a calm and welcoming destination, perfect for exploring on foot and discovering its fortress, its Arab heritage, its trading history and its seafront along the Mediterranean. There are plenty of reasons to discover what to do in Almería on a short break.
Thanks to good train, coach and airport connections, getting here is easy. Hiring a car will also allow you to extend your trip with a road trip around the province over 4 or 5 days, visiting whitewashed villages, film locations and crystal-clear coves. Welcome to this guide to the best things to do in Almería and how to plan your visit to the city.
1. Alcazaba de Almería
The Alcazaba de Almería is one of the absolute must-see attractions in Almería and the second-largest Andalusí fortress in Andalusia, just behind the Alhambra. Built in 955 by Abderramán III, climbing up to it is one of the best things to do in the city. Once inside, you can wander along its fortified walls, which stretch for 1,430 metres.
Expanded during the taifa period and later remodelled after the Christian conquest, it was divided into three enclosures: two Muslim and one Christian. Inside you’ll find gardens with water pools, remains of Almotacín’s palace, cisterns, the former mosque converted into a church and the impressive Christian enclosure with the Torre del Homenaje and Torre de la Pólvora. From the Baluarte del Saliente you’ll enjoy lovely views over the bay and Cerro de San Cristóbal.
The Alcazaba has also been used as a filming location for productions such as Game of Thrones and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. At its foot lies the neighbourhood of La Almedina, the original heart of Almería.
Extra tip: Although entry is free, I’d recommend booking this guided tour to properly understand its history and ask any questions during your visit.
2. Catedral de la Encarnación de Almería
The Catedral de la Encarnación de Almería is another highlight thanks to its unique character as a cathedral-fortress. Built in the 16th century after the 1522 earthquake, it served not only as a place of worship but also as protection against attacks from Barbary pirates. That’s why its exterior looks solid and austere, with towers, thick walls and a distinctly military feel.
Inside, don’t miss the Main Altar with its Baroque altarpiece and chapels such as Santo Cristo de la Escucha. During your visit you can climb the tower for fantastic views over the old town. Look closely and you’ll spot the famous Sol de Portocarrero, one of the city’s most recognisable symbols.
Located in Plaza de la Catedral, the square is paved with white Macael marble and decorated with elegant tall palm trees. Just a few steps away you’ll also find the Palacio Episcopal and the Museo de la Guitarra, dedicated to the Spanish guitar and other instruments.
Extra tip: If you fancy something different, you can book this evening walking tour to discover the cathedral’s legends and mysteries.
3. Cable Inglés
Also known as muelle de El Alquife, the Cable Inglés is one of the most striking examples of industrial architecture in Andalusia. Built in 1904 by an architect from the school of Gustave Eiffel, it was used to transport iron ore from the Alquife mines directly onto ships in the port, connecting the railway station with the sea.
For decades it played a key role in the city’s economic development, particularly during the mining boom of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It operated until the 1970s and is now protected as industrial heritage. Fully restored, it has become a spectacular viewpoint over the sea.
It’s located next to the port and very close to Parque Nicolás Salmerón and the Paseo Marítimo, making it easy to include at the end of your city walk. At sunset or lit up at night, it’s one of the most photogenic spots in Almería.
4. Refugios de la Guerra Civil
The Refugios de la Guerra Civil de Almería were built between 1936 and 1938 after the numerous bombings the city suffered during the Spanish Civil War. In total, there were 52 attacks by air and sea.
The network stretches for 4.5 kilometres of tunnels dug 9 metres underground and had capacity for around 34,000 people — practically most of the population at the time. During the visit, you’ll walk through original corridors, see ventilation areas and even a former operating theatre, which shows just how carefully the whole project was planned.
The visit is guided, and I’d strongly recommend booking your tickets in advance so you don’t miss out. The entrance is right in the historic centre, near Puerta de Purchena, so it’s easy to add to your list of things to do in Almería if you’re exploring the city on foot.
5. Paseo Marítimo de Almería
The Paseo Marítimo de Almería begins around Playa de San Miguel and continues towards the El Zapillo neighbourhood. It’s a wide promenade lined with tall palm trees and pedestrian paths — a really pleasant place for a stroll by the sea.
Playa de San Miguel, a golden sandy urban beach, is a great option if you fancy a dip without leaving the city. In summer, temperatures can easily rise above 35°C, so late afternoon is the best time to enjoy this area. Love sunsets? I promise you’ll experience one of the most beautiful sunsets in Andalusia right here.
You can walk from the Cable Inglés to Parque Nicolás Salmerón along this promenade. So if you’re looking to soak up the sun, enjoy the calm sea, grab a drink or even go for a run, this is the perfect spot.
6. Parque Nicolás Salmerón
Another lovely green space in the centre of Almería where you can walk alongside the port is Parque Nicolás Salmerón. Running parallel to the sea, it’s full of century-old palm trees, fountains and — importantly — plenty of shaded benches where you can sit and relax.
It’s named after Nicolás Salmerón, President of the First Spanish Republic, whose statue you can also see in the city. The park has long served as a connection between the centre and the port, forming part of the urban expansion that reshaped Almería after the old city walls were demolished.
As well as its palm trees and the well-known Fuente de los Delfines, the park has also appeared in various film productions shot in Almería.
7. Museo de Almería
The best way to understand the history of the province of Almería is by visiting the Museo de Almería. The building itself is modern and was recognised as European Museum of the Year in 2008, so everything is very well laid out and easy to follow.
Inside, you’ll learn about key cultures such as Los Millares and El Argar, as well as the Roman and Muslim past of the city, when Almería was an important Mediterranean port. The visit is educational, engaging and very well structured.
Other museums to visit in Almería include:
- Museo de la Guitarra Antonio de Torres
- Museo de Arte Doña Pakyta
- Centro Andaluz de la Fotografía
- Casa del Cine
8. Mirador de las murallas de Jairán desde en cerro de San Cristóbal
The Murallas de Jairán are part of the city’s medieval defensive system and visually connect the Alcazaba with Cerro de San Cristóbal. Built in the 11th century during the taifa period, the remaining sections you can see today help you imagine the walled perimeter that once protected the old medina.
Climbing up to Cerro de San Cristóbal rewards you with some of the best panoramic views of Almería. From this viewpoint, you’ll see the Alcazaba in all its glory, the port, Parque Nicolás Salmerón and much of the historic centre. At the top you’ll also find the statue of the Sagrado Corazón de Jesús, which you’ve probably already spotted from different points around the city.
Extra tip: Although you have the option of going up on foot or by car, I’d recommend driving, as the climb is quite demanding.
9. Plaza Vieja (Plaza de la Constitución)
Plaza de la Constitución, popularly known as Plaza Vieja, used to be the old Muslim souk. Today it’s one of the most representative places to visit in Almería, and this is where you’ll find the Town Hall.
In the square you’ll also see the monument to Los Coloraos, dedicated to the liberals executed in 1824 after attempting to restore the Constitution of 1812. You’ll also find the Tourist Office and the Centro de Interpretación Patrimonial (CIP), a small free museum that explains the historical evolution of Almería through three main periods: Muslim, Christian and modern.
It’s the perfect place to start or continue your walk around the old town, as it connects easily with the Alcazaba, the Cathedral and some of the best streets where to eat in Almería.
10. Centro histórico de Almería
The historic centre of Almería is compact and very easy to explore on foot. From the Alcazaba and La Almedina to Puerta de Purchena, everything is just a few minutes’ walk away, which makes the city perfect for a day trip or a relaxed weekend break.
Along this route, highlights include Puerta de Purchena, once one of the main entrances to the city; Casa de las Mariposas, one of the most recognisable buildings in the centre; Paseo de Almería, the main shopping street; Rambla Federico García Lorca; and the Mercado Central, a fine example of late 19th-century industrial architecture. You’ll also come across churches such as Santiago Apóstol and San Juan, built on the site of the former main mosque.
The city centre is also the best place to eat well. Here, traditional spots like Casa Puga sit side by side with more modern tapas bars. And if you head down the Rambla, you’ll reach Plaza de las Velas, where you’ll find the famous “I Love Almería” letters, one of the most photographed spots in the city.
Map of Things to Do in Almería
In Conclusion
Beyond its cathedral and the monumental Alcazaba complex, in Almería you can also relax at Playa de San Miguel or Playa del Zapillo. You can learn more about the life of Lorca and visit its museums, which explain the history of the area and the Spanish guitar in an engaging and accessible way.
This city is perfect for a one-day walking route, as you can explore almost everything on foot and many of the main attractions are free to enter.
