Almería online travel guide
Almería; the mirror of the sea
13-01-2023 © Doris Leone
Online Travel Guide
Almería is a city in the region of Andalusia and, if I may say so personally, still one of the most undiscovered parts of this area. Most of us opt for a nice city trip to Málaga or Seville, and some take Granada with that too. Understandably, I would definitely recommend these cities, but I would also like to explain to you like a local why you should go to Almería and what else this area has to offer. Have a look at my Almería online travel guide!
A rich history
Firstly, the whole of Andalusia is rich in a gigantic history of the Moors, and so is the city of Almería. The Moors conquered much of Spain as well as parts of Portugal in 711 and held much of Andalusia until 1492. This region was called Al-Andalus by the Moorish conquerors. Furthermore, the city of Granada and the surrounding region was the last to be held by the Moorish empire until the end, which includes these cities: Málaga, Gibraltar, Ronda and Almería.
Indalo
Tapas, tapas and more free tapas!
Nonetheless, almost nowhere else in Spain will you find such cheap tapas as in Almería, as these days you have to pay more and more for tapas. In Almería and its beautiful region, this is not so bad, you order your beer, wine or soft drink and get a free tasty tapa to go with it. Try a bit of everything, my favourites are: Gambas al Ajillo, Chorizo al Infierno, Calamares Fritos and Pinchos Morunos!
Sights of the Almería online travel guide
Visit the Alcazaba
During your visit in Almería, you will find a beautiful and huge Moorish fortress literally in the middle of the city, it dates back to the 10th century. The Moors loved this city and had a good trade via the sea to North Africa. From the fortress, you have fantastic views over the port and the city itself. Walk through the lovely gardens, and it feels like you are walking through history. Cats also love this fort and its relaxing gardens, they like to relax themselves in the fortress. At the time we visited the Alcazaba, it was free (October 2022), but you may have to pay a very small fee in high season.
Thereafter, you can have a nice stroll in the ‘Barrio La Medina’. This is a neighbourhood located around the Moorish fortress and looks really idyllic in my eyes!
Admire the magnificent cathedrals and beautiful squares
Equally, throughout the city you will find several squares, from small to large, but in any case always space to have a rest. The most wonderful and famous square is Plaza de la Catedral, where the giant palm trees give a lovely atmosphere around the cathedral. Nearby, you have Plaza Campoamor, where couples often hang a lock on the gate. Plaza Vieja is a nice square, which has a nice relaxed feel. In my Almería online travel guide you will find some lovely and historical cathedrals, as: Igelisa de Santiago and Parroquia de San Sebastián.
Visit the local market: Mercado Central
Especially, for the best local produce, head to the Mercado Central, taste the tastiest olives, delicious ‘jamón’ and visit the fresh fish market.
Almería has a cool old train station
Next to Estación Intermodal, you will find the old station, which has an idyllic character and is nowadays only displayed as a tourist attraction.
The province of Almería consists of 7 municipalities
By the time you have visited Almería, be sure to visit the surrounding areas, such as the astonishing natural park Cabo de Gata, which is located in the ‘Comarca Metropolitana de Almería’ area. Or the desert Tabernas, which is in ‘Los Filabres-Tabernas’. Both are so incredibly beautiful with amazing rugged landscapes, and it is no coincidence that many films are shot here.
Check out Almería's Walk of Fame
Particularly, Almería also has a Walk of Fame, a number of special stars are engraved on the ‘Poeta Villaespesa’ street in Almería. Because of the many films shot in this province, the city decided to create a Walk of Fame as well. For example, Arnold Schwarzenegger starred in the film ‘Conan the Barbarian’, this one was shot here, and therefore he is engraved as one of the stars.
Safety?
Generally, Almería is a safe city, you just should not go into certain neighbourhoods. Also, always be careful not to be too lax with your belongings, otherwise they can be stolen in an instant. Like bags, you carry around you, someone could just drive by and take them from you. The districts that are a ‘No Go’ are: El Puche, El Quemadero-La Fuentecita, Los Almendros and Pescadería-La Chanca. At this last district, you can get off the bus just fine, but walk straight into town, in the evening many police drive here.
Accommodation?
- La Pita Guesthouse, a fine hostel in the middle of town, opposite Plaza Campoamor
- If you want to enjoy breakfast every morning overlooking Plaza de la Catedral, choose Catedral Almería
- Stay in the symbol of Almería: Vértice Indalo Almería
- Aire Hotel & Ancient Baths is a luxury hotel with beautiful views of the Alcazaba and you pay a reasonable price
Visiting Cabo de Gata?
Whenever you want to visit Cabo de Gata, take the bus from Estación Intermodal towards San José or the town of Cabo de Gata, depending on where you want to go. The ride takes about an hour, but you will find yourself in an incredibly charming area. Tickets cost around €3,- one way. Check on Google Maps the times the buses leave, as they only go a few times a day.
Visit Morocco
Straight away from Almería, boats leave three times a week for Melilla, which is a Spanish enclave in Africa. From there, you can cross to Morocco and visit the city of Nador, for example.
