Car Hire Almeria Airport

It takes just 15 minutes to reach Almeria from the airport. Just take the N-344 regional road to join the AP-7 to reach the heart of the town.

The motorways around Almeria – labelled AP, short for autopista – tend to be toll roads. They accept cash as well as debit and credit card payments.

Finding a parking space in the city’s old town can be hard to come by, with limited street parking. Look out for blue-lined bays, which indicate that the space is pay and display. However, there are many public car parks to choose from, with parking costing around €10 per day.

To reach the town of Roquetas de Mar, use the AP-7. It takes about 30 minutes to get there and you’ll be greeted by the popular holiday destination’s laidback charms. You can also use the AP-7 to get to Mojacar, around an hour’s drive away, which makes for an idyllic day trip. Alternatively, you can take the N-341, which extends the journey by 20 minutes but allows you to take in 17km of stunning coastline views. 

Be mindful of the speed limits in Spain. These are generally 120km/h on autopistas, 90km/h outside built-up areas and 50km/h inside towns and cities.

Situated in Southern Spain, the city of Almeria was once a flourishing star of the silk industry, and today that Arabic influence still threads its way through the city’s culture and architecture. There’s so much to see and do in this hidden corner of Spain.

Mojacar and more

The old town of Mojocar and the golden sands of Mojocar Playa – or beach – are just an hour’s drive from Almeria Airport. Once there, bask in the perfect blend of both popular tourist attractions and the authentic feel of a traditional Spanish town.

A well-kept secret, the area is hugely popular with locals but never feels overcrowded or bustling thanks to the gorgeous coastline which has something to offer for all types of traveller. From rocky and secluded bays, to the laidback shores of Playa de la Cueva del Lobo, you’ll find sheltered gems ideal for fishing and frolicking in the waves, with busier spots prime for adrenaline-fuelled water sports and playing ball games on the soft sands.

Almeria’s Roots

Almeria’s past is enthralling, with several influences making up the city as we see it today.

Thanks to its dry landscape being so reminiscent of the Wild West, many famous western movies have been filmed in the area’s Tabernas Desert. The film sets were converted into popular theme parks and attractions after filming ended in 1966 with Mini Hollywood, Texas Hollywood and Western Leon remaining open to the public.

The star attraction, however, is the 10^th-century Alcazaba, built by Moorish leader Abd-ar-Rahman III. The imposing structure was constructed to protect the city it overlooks.

Almeria’s old town is one of the best places in the world to enjoy traditional tapas dishes. In many bars, when you sit down and order a drink, a surprise tapas dish will arrive too – and there’s always the option to buy more.

Once you taste local delights – such as cod served in a tomato sauce, and battered and fried lemon leaves – you’ll be able to see why the Spanish government crowned the city its 2019 gastronomic capital.

Siesta in the Spanish cities

Granada, Malaga and the Andalusian capital of Seville or all within easy driving distance. Granada and Malaga are easy day trips, while Seville, some four and a half hours away, requires a night or two.

Granada is less than a two-hour drive away from Almeria airport. Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, this hilly city houses the stunning Alhambra Islamic palace. Wander the spectacular landscaped gardens, drink sangria in the bohemian student bars and absorb the energy of the graffiti strewn streets.

Meanwhile, coastal Malaga is ripe with gorgeous architecture – and cuisine to match. Must-sees include the cathedral – Santa Iglesia Catedral Basílica de la Encarnación – which was built across the 16^th, 17^th and 18^th centuries, as well as the 11^th-century palatial fort of Alcazaba.

Seville shares the same Arabic and Christian hybrid history of Almeria. Its old gyspy quarter, Triana, is a must-visit for a journey back in time. Many Spanish traditions including flamenco and bullfighting have strong links to the town, with Seville being home to the Real Maestranza bullring, one of Spain’s oldest.

With so many attractions close to Almeria Airport, hiring a car gives you the perfect opportunity to discover all these incredible attractions at your own leisure.