Explore the heart of southern Spain with this Guided Walking Tour of Almeria, a journey that blends history, architecture, and art in one of Andalusia’s most overlooked gems. This two-hour stroll through the city center unveils the rich layers of Almeria’s past, from ancient Arab engineering to Civil War survival strategies.
Starting at Puerta de Purchena, your guide will lead you through Almeria’s most iconic streets and landmarks. One of the first highlights is the Refugios of the Spanish Civil War—almost three miles of underground tunnels that protected the population during air raids. You’ll also discover the Aljibes Arabes, 11th-century cisterns that still capture the ingenuity of Islamic engineering.
Your tour continues with a visit to the striking Cathedral of the Incarnation, a fortress-temple hybrid that has stood the test of time since the 16th century. Learn about local religious traditions and see the nearby sanctuary of the Virgin of the Sea before shifting your focus to the world of arts.
You’ll visit the Escuela de Artes y Oficios, a historic art school, and take a peek at the Teatro Cervantes, where local legends—ghost stories included—add an air of mystery. A short walk brings you to the Doña Pakyta Art Museum, home to paintings from Almerian artists spanning the 19th and 20th centuries.
To close the experience, unwind in the lush Parque de Nicolás Salmerón, located between the port and the old town, and take in the impressive sight of the Cable Inglés, a towering 20th-century iron structure that once connected Almeria’s port with its railway.
Perfect for history lovers, architecture buffs, and art enthusiasts alike, this guided walking tour offers an engaging and well-rounded introduction to Almeria.
What You’ll See During the Guided Walking Tour of Almería
Join this guided tour Old Town Almería to explore the historic heart of the city and discover the top things to do in Almería, from atmospheric underground refuges to striking industrial heritage along the seafront.
Butterfly House (Casa de las Mariposas)
An early-20th-century jewel in Puerta de Purchena, the “Butterfly House” is famed for its decorative butterfly motifs and elegant modernist façade. It’s a great first stop to admire Almería’s urban architecture and learn about the families who shaped the city.
Civil War Shelters (Refugios)
Beneath the streets lie kilometres of air-raid shelters built between 1937–38 to protect thousands during the Spanish Civil War; guided visits recreate wartime scenes and medical rooms. Visiting the refuges gives a powerful, immersive sense of the city’s 20th-century history.
Aljibes Árabes
These large underground cisterns once supplied water to the medieval city and could hold hundreds of thousands of litres—an ingenious example of Andalusian hydraulic engineering. Today they’re restored and used for exhibitions, offering a cool, atmospheric contrast to the sunlit streets above.
Cathedral of the Incarnation (Catedral de la Encarnación)
This 16th-century cathedral was conceived as a fortress-like temple—thick walls, battlements and defensive towers—to protect against pirate raids, blending Gothic and Renaissance styles. It’s one of Almería’s most striking monuments and a must-see on the guided route.
Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Sea (Santuario de la Virgen del Mar)
Perched near the port, the Sanctuary honours Almería’s patron saint and mixes Baroque interior details with a long local devotion; it was heavily restored after Civil War damage. It’s a quiet, evocative stop where locals often come to pray and leave offerings.
Escuela de Artes y Oficios (School of Arts and Crafts)
Housed in a historic complex that includes the former convent of Santo Domingo, this long-standing arts school connects Almería’s craft traditions with contemporary creativity. The cloistered courtyard and façade are lovely photo spots during the walk.
Teatro Cervantes
This elegant theatre—started in the late 19th century and completed in the early 20th—has been a cultural focal point for plays, concerts and local gatherings for generations. Even from the street you can sense its theatrical history; check the programme for performances if you have time.
Doña Pakyta Art Museum (Museo Doña Pakyta)
Set in a handsome early-20th-century house, this intimate museum showcases local art from the late 19th and 20th centuries and highlights Almería’s cultural scene. It’s a compact, rewarding stop for art lovers interested in regional painters and decorative arts.
Parque Nicolás Salmerón
This leafy park between the port and the city is a pleasant place to pause, with seaside promenades, fountains and palm-lined walks that reveal local daily life. It’s ideal for a rest during the guided tour and for spotting views toward the harbour and Cable Inglés.
Cable Inglés
An iconic iron mineral-loading pier built in the early 1900s, the Cable Inglés is now a restored heritage promenade and one of the city’s most photographed landmarks. Walk its length for panoramic harbour views and a striking example of industrial architecture on the Almería seafront.
Tips to Enjoy the Guided Tour of Old Town Almería
To fully enjoy your Guided Walking Tour of Almeria, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are some practical tips to enhance your experience:
🌞 Wear comfortable shoes – You’ll be walking for nearly two hours across a mix of cobbled streets and smooth paths. Make sure your footwear keeps you light on your feet.
📸 Bring a camera or phone – From the Cable Inglés to the Arab cisterns, there are plenty of unique photo opportunities along the way.
🕰️ Arrive early at Puerta de Purchena – This busy square is easy to navigate, but arriving 10–15 minutes early ensures a stress-free start.
🎧 Ask questions – Your guide is an expert in local art and history. Take advantage of their knowledge to go beyond surface-level facts.
🌬️ Stay hydrated – Especially in warmer months, bring a bottle of water to stay refreshed during the tour.
🖼️ Entry to the Escuela de Artes and Doña Pakyta Museum depends on their hours. If they’re closed, your guide will still share great stories from the outside.
📍 Mark your map – Use your time after the tour to revisit your favorite spots or explore nearby areas like the Alcazaba of Almeria or the port promenade.
Whether it’s your first time in the city or a deeper dive into its culture, these tips will help you walk away with a true feel for Almeria.
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FAQs
Where does the Guided Tour of Old Town Almería start?
The Guided Tour of Old Town Almería begins at Puerta de Purchena, a central landmark in the city’s historic quarter and the perfect starting point to explore the city’s heritage.
What will I see during the Guided Tour of Old Town Almería?
During the Guided Tour of Old Town Almería, you’ll visit historical landmarks such as the Arab Cisterns (Aljibes Árabes), the Cathedral of the Incarnation, the School of Arts, Teatro Cervantes, Doña Pakyta Museum, Nicolás Salmerón Park, and the iconic Cable Inglés.
Does the Guided Tour of Old Town Almería include entry to monuments?
Yes, the Guided Tour of Old Town Almería includes access to a few interiors, including the Arab Cisterns and the Doña Pakyta Museum, depending on opening hours. Most other sites are admired from the outside.
How long is the Guided Tour of Old Town Almería?
The Guided Tour of Old Town Almería lasts between 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, offering an immersive yet accessible experience through the city’s cultural highlights.
Is the Guided Tour of Old Town Almería wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Guided Tour of Old Town Almería is wheelchair accessible, but please indicate your accessibility needs when booking.
What language is the Guided Tour of Old Town Almería conducted in?
The Guided Tour of Old Town Almería is led by a professional guide who speaks English and specializes in art and history.
Can children join the Guided Tour of Old Town Almería?
Yes, children are welcome on the Guided Tour of Old Town Almería. It’s a family-friendly experience ideal for curious minds of all ages.
Are pets allowed on the Guided Tour of Old Town Almería?
No, pets are not allowed on the Guided Tour of Old Town Almería to ensure the comfort of all participants.
Is there a minimum number of participants for the Guided Tour of Old Town Almería?
Yes, a minimum of two participants is usually required for the Guided Tour of Old Town Almería to take place. If this isn’t met, alternatives may be offered.
