1. Visit the Alcazaba

The Muslim rule of Andalusia through the many centuries created the second largest citadel in Andalusia called the Alcazaba of Almeria. This impressive fortress is the 2nd largest after the Alhambra located in Granada. The Alcazaba was built as a fortress to keep away invaders, pirates from the coastal areas of the rgion. Walking up the ancient stone steps to the entrance you eventually enter the stunning lush gardens, ruins and impressive views of the top of the citadel and ramparts of the fortress areas.

Exploring the three interior secctions from the Medieval towers, the gardens and beautiful squares to the mosques and churches that replaced them along with ruins of the palaces and other significant structures gives you a real glimpse of the power and dominance of the Moorish rulters of the areas and then conversion to Spanish Catholic dominance in the area.

Here’s what I found on your Alcazaba of Almería query—straightforward, credible details you can use:

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Address

The Alcazaba is located at Calle Almanzor, s/n, 04002 Almería, Spain. It’s perched on a hill in Almería’s historic core.

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Cost (Admission)

• Free for EU citizens with valid ID.
• €1.50 for visitors from other countries (non–EU). (inspain.org, Junta de Andalucía)

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Official Website

The Alcazaba’s official page is hosted by the Junta de Andalucía:
http://www.museosdeandalucia.es/web/conjuntomonumentallaalcazabaalmeria (Junta de Andalucía)

Snapshot Table

Detail	Info
Address	Calle Almanzor, s/n, 04002 Almería, Spain
Cost	EU citizens: Free · Others: €1.50
Website	Official: museosdeandalucia.es/alcazaba

 

2. Explore the Tabernas Desert

The only true desert located in Europe, the landscape is a mixture of bandlands, canyons, ravines and mountains with Red and Orange hued landscape. Seeped in historic western vibe, the area was filmed in a variety of western and desert scape scnes with an old manufactured town square in Tabernas that you can explore the cool movie sets and false front buildings to famous movies like “Laurence of Arabia”, The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” and even “Cleopatra” amking this an easy place to shoot their own Hollywood mini set.

The Tabernas Desert is raw, desolate and and rough landscape that can easily be a pass through landscape but now a historic site that showcases the Hollywood desertscape that was easy to film in.

Here are the top things to see:

1. Wild West Film Sets and Theme Parks
Several classic spaghetti westerns were filmed here, including Sergio Leone’s movies. You can still visit the sets at Oasys Mini Hollywood, Fort Bravo, and Western Leone, which now operate as themed attractions with shows, old saloons, horse-riding displays, and museums.

2. Desert Landscapes and Viewpoints
The dry canyons, rugged ravines, and strange rock formations make the desert feel like something out of Arizona. Hiking or driving through these landscapes gives you dramatic views, especially at sunrise or sunset.

3. Tabernas Castle (Castillo de Tabernas)
Overlooking the desert, this medieval Moorish castle dates back to the 11th century. Although in ruins, it offers panoramic views of the desert plains and is a great spot to understand the region’s strategic past.

4. Flora and Fauna
Despite its barren appearance, the desert is home to unique plants, reptiles, and birdlife. If you enjoy nature walks, you’ll see species adapted to this arid environment that don’t grow elsewhere in Spain.

5. Film History Trails
Beyond the theme parks, you can explore actual filming locations scattered around the desert. Many movies, from Lawrence of Arabia to modern productions like Game of Thrones, used this landscape.

6. Tabernas Town
The nearby town of Tabernas is worth a short stop, with its whitewashed streets, local cafés, and connections to both Moorish history and the golden age of western films.

3. Indulge in Delicious Tapas

The city is a gourmet city where tapas are offered free with purhase of a drink from that establishment. Tapas are offered complimentary when you also order a local drink with delicious pane con tomate, egg tortilla, cheese, potato fritters or local jamon. Also acessible is the amazing local seafood options like squid, mussels, octopus and different fish caught in the area that are made with simple and delicious dishes that shine with local produced or sourced ingredients. Tapas are typically offered complementary in Tapas bars with a purchase of a drink but you’ll find more tradition, fusion and even gastrobars to choose from below;

 

1. Traditional Tapas

• Tortilla Española – Classic Spanish omelette with potatoes and onions.
• Patatas a lo Pobre – Fried potatoes with peppers, onions, and sometimes egg.
• Croquetas – Creamy fried croquettes filled with ham, cod, or chicken.

2. Seafood Tapas

• Calamares a la Andaluza – Lightly battered and fried squid rings.
• Gambas a la Plancha – Grilled prawns, simply seasoned with salt.
• Boquerones en Vinagre – Fresh anchovies marinated in vinegar, garlic, and parsley.
• Pulpo a la Gallega – Octopus slices with paprika, olive oil, and sea salt.

3. Meat Tapas

• Chorizo al Vino – Spicy sausage cooked in red wine.
• Albóndigas – Small meatballs often served in tomato sauce.
• Jamón Ibérico – Thinly sliced Iberian ham, a Spanish specialty.

4. Local Specialties

• Cherigan – A local favorite: toasted bread with toppings like tuna, ham, or eggplant.
• Tabernero – A tapa with peppers, tomato, onion, and sometimes tuna or sausage, typical of Almería.
• Migas – Fried breadcrumbs mixed with garlic, peppers, and sometimes chorizo or sardines, usually eaten on rainy days.

5. Vegetable and Light Tapas

• Ensaladilla Rusa – Spanish potato salad with tuna, peas, and mayonnaise.
• Pimientos Asados – Roasted peppers dressed with olive oil.
• Gazpacho Andaluz – Chilled tomato-based soup, refreshing in the heat.

4. Explore heart of the City Center

You can enjoy the shopping, dining and discover the Old City Center part of Almeria and discover the unique and authentic parts of this Spanish city along with visiting the commercial areas, the Mercado Central and the fabulous Cathedral along with narrow small streets of the downtown district. You’ll find unique boutique galleries and shops to explore, high end street shopping or just hang out in the local cafes or public squares in the downtown district.

If you’d like to unwind and treat yourself to something nice, take yourself out for a round of shopping and discover authentic Spanish marketplaces, boutique stores and staple Spanish brands. Stop by Mercado Central for a rich market experience. Sample some delicious treats, then head to nearby Paseo de Almería, the main commercial artery of the city.

5. Head to Almeria’s fantastic beaches

These are probably the most unknown beaches to enjoy in all of Spain and devoid of tourists visiting the area. Accessible beaches to the city to even more remote little coves and national parks, you’ll be amazed by the gorgeous coastline and wide stretches of beaches to explore here. Here are the most popular to visit around the Almeria coastline below:

• Playa de los Genoveses (Cabo de Gata Natural Park)
  • Unspoiled, wide sandy bay with shallow waters.
  • Surrounded by volcanic hills, no buildings or facilities.
  • Great for families and those looking for a natural setting.
• Playa de Mónsul (Cabo de Gata Natural Park)
  • Famous for its volcanic rock formations and dune backdrop.
  • Featured in films like Indiana Jones.
  • Clear waters, popular with photographers and hikers.
• Playa de San José
  • Located in the town of San José, with easy access.
  • Mix of natural beauty and amenities (restaurants, cafes, rentals).
  • Ideal for travelers wanting comfort with scenic surroundings.
• Playa de las Salinas (Cabo de Gata Natural Park)
  • Long stretch of sand with views of salt flats and flamingos.
  • Wide open, quiet atmosphere.
  • Great for birdwatching and long walks.
• Playa de Aguadulce
  • Close to Almería city, well-developed.
  • Lined with bars, restaurants, and water sports facilities.
  • Popular with families and locals.
• Playa de Zapillo (Almería City Beach)
  • The main urban beach in Almería.
  • Easily accessible, with a lively promenade.
  • Good choice if you want to stay close to the city center.
• Playa de los Muertos (Carboneras)
  • Crystal-clear water and fine pebbles.
  • Often listed as one of Spain’s most beautiful beaches.
  • Somewhat steep access, but worth the effort.
• Playa de Vera
  • Known for its long sandy coast and relaxed vibe.
  • Includes a well-known nudist section.
  • Popular for resorts, family vacations, and water activities.

6. Explore the White Villages of Almeria