What to see in Almería in 3 days: from the Alcazaba to the volcanic Cabo de Gata

Almería encapsulates millennia of history, unique architecture, desert landscapes unrivaled in Europe, and volcanic coves with transparent waters. In three days, you can combine urban heritage, museums, and gastronomy with the beaches of the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park and coastal towns like Roquetas de Mar or Carboneras. Here is an optimized and very easy-to-follow itinerary.

Quick tips before you start

The ideal way to get around is by car to flexibly connect the city, wetlands, and coves of Cabo de Gata.
Bring comfortable shoes for the Alcazaba and hiking trails, sunscreen, a hat, and water (the climate is dry).
If the levante (east wind) is blowing, prioritize more sheltered beaches or coves inside bays.
Book guided tours of the Civil War Shelters in advance and check access and parking availability at the most popular coves during high season.

Day 1 — Almería Capital: Fortress, Port, and Industrial Architecture

Alcazaba of Almería A 10th-century fortress ordered by Abd al-Rahman III and an emblem of the city. Wander through its walls, gardens, and cisterns, and look out from its viewpoints: they offer the best views of Almería and its bay.

Civil War Shelters An underground network of more than 4 km built in 1937-38. The main entrance is in Plaza Manuel Pérez García. A powerful visit to understand the city's recent history.

Port of Almería and the "Cable Inglés" The port is integrated into the urban fabric with promenades and green areas. Just a step away, the Cable Inglés (a designated Asset of Cultural Interest) is a gem of 20th-century industrial architecture: an old ore loading dock connected by railway to the Granada mines of Alquife.

Almería Train Station A 1903 building, a work by Paul Garnier, with an elegant metal structure and interior rooms that have been repurposed. It completes the "diptych" of industrial heritage along with the Cable Inglés.

Museum of Almería (Archaeological) Collections from Prehistory to the Islamic period, with a special focus on the El Argar culture. Ideal for contextualizing what you will see throughout the province.

Carmen de Burgos Promenade About 2.5 km running parallel to the urban beaches, lined with terraces and restaurants. Perfect for sunset.

Where to eat today Creative tapas in the historic center (Cathedral/Puerta de Purchena area) or seafood cuisine near the port. Look for fresh fish from the market, octopus, and prawns, as well as classics like cheriguán, migas, or gurullos.

Day 2 — Art, Guitar, and Nature: From the Cathedral to Roquetas de Mar

Cathedral of the Incarnation A 16th-century fortress-church, a mix of late Gothic and Renaissance styles. Note its defensive character and its cloister.

Andalusian Center of Photography A venue for temporary exhibitions and a permanent collection featuring major national and international names. An essential stop if you enjoy photography.

"Antonio de Torres" Guitar Museum Explore the history of Spain's most iconic instrument, with historical pieces and audiovisual displays. A tribute to the luthier from Almería considered the "father of the modern guitar."

Midday Break Head to the Central Market or traditional taverns in the old town for tapas and shared plates (raciones).

Punta Entinas-Sabinar After lunch, head southwest. This natural area between Roquetas and El Ejido combines dunes, wetlands, and salt flats, offering excellent bird watching. Bring binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching.

Roquetas de Mar and the Castle of Santa Ana Wide, family-friendly beaches, a promenade, and the Castle of Santa Ana (16th century), a former coastal fortification that is now an exhibition space. Enjoy the atmosphere of the marina as evening falls.

Dinner Tapas and raciones near the port or around the castle. There are seafood options, grills, and menus with vegetarian alternatives.

Day 3 — Cabo de Gata and Carboneras: Volcanic Coves and Turquoise Waters

Playa de los Muertos (Carboneras) One of the most iconic beaches on the Almería coast: a straight shoreline with fine pebbles and crystal-clear waters, framed by cliffs. Access is via a descending trail: wear appropriate footwear and check the sea conditions.

Carboneras A fishing village with a fishing port and whitewashed houses. A good place to eat grilled fish, rice dishes, and grilled vegetables. Take a quiet stroll through the old town and along the promenade.

Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park Dedicate the afternoon to several essential stops:

Mirador del Arrecife de las Sirenas and the Cabo de Gata Lighthouse: a legendary volcanic panoramic view.
Playa de los Genoveses and Mónsul: golden sand, fossilized dunes, and crystal-clear water.
Aguamarga or La Isleta del Moro: coves and small villages with a Mediterranean feel.

Recommended activities: kayaking and snorkeling in sheltered coves, short hikes to Vela Blanca or Mesa Roldán.

Dinner Opt for seafood rice dishes, stews (calderos), and noodle paellas (fideuás) with local products. In high season, book in advance.

Alternatives and Extensions

If you have more time, add the Tabernas Desert (film sets and hiking trails), Níjar pueblo (for its jarapa crafts), Las Negras, and Rodalquilar (old mines and viewpoints).
For families, Oasys MiniHollywood and the Aquarium Costa de Almería are sure bets.
In winter and spring, the wetlands of Cabo de Gata are at their best for bird watching.

Where to stay in Almería

As a practical base for combining the city, Roquetas/Aguadulce, and trips to Cabo de Gata, a comfortable and great value-for-money option is B&B HOTEL Almería Vícar: modern rooms with high-speed Wi-Fi, a 24-hour reception, free coffee and tea, and easy access to the A-7 motorway to travel throughout the province.

Useful Checklist

Tickets/Visits: Alcazaba, Civil War Shelters, Cathedral.
Gear: light hiking shoes, hat, sunscreen, water, microfiber towel.
Driving: respect the regulated access and parking at the natural park's coves.
Sustainability: leave no waste, avoid loud music in the coves, and respect the flora and fauna.

With this 3-day plan, you will get a complete overview: the historical and creative Almería, the natural power of Cabo de Gata, and the seaside flavor of its villages.