Almería is the sunniest and driest provincial capital on the Spanish mainland, and one of the most affordable cities on the coast. It is less polished than Málaga and has fewer tourists.
The province has film-set deserts (Tabernas, where many westerns were shot) and the Cabo de Gata natural park, with some of the emptiest beaches in Spain.
Climate: The driest city in mainland Europe: about 3,000 hours of sun a year, mild winters, very little rain.
Visiting Almería
How long: 2 days
Don’t miss
- Alcazaba fortress
- Cabo de Gata beaches (Mónsul, Los Genoveses)
- Tabernas desert and the western film sets
- Free tapas in the centre
- San José and Agua Amarga villages
What to eat
- Free tapas with every drink
- Gurullos stew
- Red prawns from Garrucha
Tip: Beaches in Cabo de Gata limit car access in summer; use the shuttle buses from San José.
Plan a visit
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A perfect first day
- Morning: the Alcazaba, one of the largest Moorish fortresses in Spain.
- Afternoon: the Civil War shelters under the city and lunch with free tapas.
- Evening: a stroll on the seafront promenade.
Easy day trips
Where to stay as a visitor
For tapas and walking.
For the beach.
More of Almería
Fiestas
Living in Almería
Best for: Sun-seekers on a budget who are happy living in Spanish.
Neighbourhoods and areas
Shops, tapas bars, walkable.
Beachfront flats close to the centre.
Newer seaside developments near the airport.
Pros
- Very cheap for the coast
- Almost guaranteed sun
- Uncrowded beaches
Cons
- Slow train links
- Less English
- Fewer flights
Cost tiers compare places within Spain (€ = among the cheapest, €€€€ = among the most expensive). Rents change quickly: check current listings for the exact area before you decide.
Thinking of moving?
Get your personal paperwork list for visas, NIE, padrón and more.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Almería?
2 days is enough for the main sights: alcazaba fortress, cabo de gata beaches (mónsul, los genoveses), tabernas desert and the western film sets. Beaches in Cabo de Gata limit car access in summer; use the shuttle buses from San José.
Is Almería expensive to live in?
On our scale it is low (€). It is one of the cheaper places in Spain.
How do I get to Almería?
By air: Almería (LEI), 15 minutes. By rail: Slow trains to Madrid (6 to 7 hours); a high-speed line is under construction.
Have you been to Almería?
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