Almeria trips and vacations

The 10th-century fortress Alcazaba of Almeria towers over the city, a relic of a time when Andalucia was under Moorish rule. Good news for visitors looking for ways to have a cheap vacation in Almeria — the fortress is free to visit. Peek over its fortifications at the Mediterranean Sea before walking up San Cristobal Hill at sunset.

Since the 1950s, filmmakers have descended on the Tabernas Desert (about a 30-minute drive from Almeria), realizing that the landscape could imitate the American Wild West at a fraction of the cost. Many of the original sets still stand today. Unleash your inner Clint Eastwood at the likes of Fort Bravo for an offbeat excursion on your trip to Almeria.

Dotted with resorts, lengthy Zapillo Beach sits within Almeria’s city limits. Slip off your shoes to walk along its shoreline at sunset. Travel 45 minutes east of the city for the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park, where the scene of its craggy, volcanic mountains set against the turquoise coastline will keep your camera busy for hours.

If you plan to spend lots of time sunning yourself, El Zapillo is the best area to stay in Almeria. Boasting the best of both worlds, this beachside neighborhood is centrally located and easily reached by public transportation. Head to San Miguel Beach, where you’ll find tapas bars overlooking the promenade and some of the best seafood in the city.

Good for: Beaches, seafood, convenient location

Centro is where to stay in Almeria if historical attractions are at the forefront of your itinerary. You’ll find sites such as the Alcazaba, the Cathedral of Almeria (which dates back to the 16th century) and the town hall all within walking distance. You’ll also have access to Almeria’s Central Market and the best bars at your doorstep.

Good for: Historic landmarks, bars, lively atmosphere

While you’re a little further from the city center and beaches here, the inns of La Canada are perfect for a peaceful slice of local life in Almeria. Pay your respects at the Antonio de Torres memorial, an homage to the inventor of the guitar as we know it today.

Good for: Quiet, local life, authenticity

At Oasys Mini Hollywood, you won’t just find a replica Wild West town still used in film and TV. There’s also a zoo with over 800 animals and an oasis with three pools. Parque de las Familias is a large city park in El Zapillo with plenty of play equipment for children and a bar for adults — and it’s free.

For top-notch shopping in Almeria, Calle de las Tiendas has got you covered. Along this street, you’ll find all your local and artisanal goods — preserved meats like Iberian ham and chorizo, as well as jams made of fruit from the Alpujarra Almeriense region, otherwise known as Europe’s orchard. Or wander through Almeria’s ‘Mercado Central’ (central market) during the weekly farmers market.

Take a guided tour through The Refugios de la Guerra Civil, the subterranean tunnels used to protect civilians from bombing during the Spanish Civil War. Or learn about the history of the film industry in Almeria at Casa del Cine de Almeria. Prepare for your evening at a flamenco club by stopping by the Spanish Guitar Museum of Antonio de Torres. Time your trip with the ‘Yo, Flamenco’ festival in July.

Head to the Old Town’s Cuatro Calles for the best nightlife in Almeria. Tapas usually happens at around eight o’clock — check out any one of Almeria’s amazing restaurants for free tapas with your tipple. The Andalusian region was the birthplace of flamenco. Catch a show at the atmospheric Pena El Taranto, an ancient Arabic water reservoir where dancers have been strutting their stuff since 1963.

While most bars across Spain charge a small fee for tapas, in Almeria, they’re free with any drink. Casa Puga has been lining stomachs since 1906 and is considered one of the best restaurants in Almeria. Its menu hasn’t changed in 30 years. Expect grilled artichoke, chicken skewers and salted pork with warm bread.

Sun worshippers have their choice of outstanding beaches in Almeria. Stroll along Carmen de Burgos promenade with palm trees on one side and the Mediterranean Sea on the other. Almeria is also surrounded by terrific snorkeling spots, like the remote Cala Raja. Wear suitable shoes for the walk to this secluded cove, where there are no amenities but plenty of natural splendor.