Almería, the capital, is the key to the Mediterranean and an authentic melting pot of cultures since Prehistory. From the sea, the city appears as a white line topped off by the Alcazaba (fortress) and the Cerro de San Cristóbal hilltop, an unequalled vantage point from which to see the town.
Known as Urci in ancient times, it is above all Mediterranean in its identity, with the centre's street layout recalling time and again the 800 years of Muslim domination. The Barriada de la Chanca area, with its outbreak of vibrant colours contrasting with the surrounding whitewashed walls, is a good example of this. But Almería would not be Almería without its 10th century Alcazaba (fortress) with its three enclosures, the two Arabic ones below, and the Christian one above; its high ochre coloured walls which turn to red in the early evening.
The Cathedral (16th century), a Renaissence temple and fortress which served to defend the population against Berber attacks also bore witness to the rumble of numerous British and US tanks and artillery pieces during the shooting of "Patton". A graceful George C. Scott paraded through the square, accompanied by Scottish, American and US troops. The Archbishop's Palace, opposite the Cathedral, even raised the Union Jack, recreating the entry of Patton in Mesina.
There are numerous squares in Almería, although the plaza de la Constitución is without doubt the prettiest, with its wide, arched porticos and the Casa Consistorial which presides over all. In the centre is situated the "Los Coloraos" monument. The Puerta de Purchena area is the nerve centre of the town, enjoying many small plazas which make it lively and recall its beloved past.
The Almería Coast is situated in the south of Spain, in eastern Andalusia, where the Mediterranean coastline changes from the south to the east of country (levante). Of the many characteristics of this area, its contrast, film sets and sceneries, its wildlife and history, none surprises the visitor as much as it’s light. A pure, intense light which gives Almería, along with St John of Acre, Athens and Syracuse, the highest number of daylights hours in the world.
Along its coastline we will describe villages ideal for relaxing and hidden-away places where nature reigns. We will pass among the dunes of the Sierra de Gata-Níjar National Park, imagining the figure of Lawrence of Arabia, played by Peter O'Toole riding across the sands; or why not the American tanks from a "Un taxi para Tobruk". The quality of light and the unique landscape of the area have enchanted directors such Spielberg and Alain Tanner, turning Almería into Europe's Hollywood. Actors such as Henry Fonda, Orson Welles, Clint Eastwood, Yul Brynner and Jack Nicholson, among many others, have all made films here.
The Tabernas Desert, declared a Natural Site, was the location for Hollywood hits such as "Valdez", "The wind and the lion", "Conan the Barbarian", "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" and many other films. A number of Wild West towns are scattered among the ravines and gullies of the area, for the enjoyment of tourists.
Should you need to travel from Malaga Airport to Almeria, the most convenient option is to hire a car and drive along the coastal road, following the route depicted on the map provided:
Malaga Airport, one of Spain's busiest air hubs, serves as an excellent starting point for your Andalusian odyssey. Once you've collected your hired car, anticipate a drive that's as delightful as the destination itself.
The road to Almeria is straightforward and well-marked, taking you along the Mediterranean coastline. You'll cover roughly 200 kilometres on the A-7 motorway, a journey that typically lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes, traffic permitting. En route, you'll enjoy views of the glistening sea, rugged mountains, and the extensive greenhouses that characterise the region's unique landscape.
As you near Almeria, the scenery undergoes a dramatic transformation as the coastal vistas give way to the arid yet striking landscapes of the Tabernas Desert. Almeria, steeped in history, welcomes you with its ancient Alcazaba fortress looming over the city and the Mediterranean's crystal-clear waters kissing its shores.
If you need to get from Malaga airport to Almeria, we recommend to rent a car at Malaga airport and drive to Almeria following the road route on the map below:
You can also book a transfer from Malaga to Almeria with us.
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