Like any good southern location in Spain with a great climate year round, it’s easy to find good nightlife in Almería. The streets of the capital of the eponymous province are lined with terrace bars which are sure to be buzzing after sunset, whether in winter or summer.
This is a place for long conversations over a cold beer accompanied by some delicious (not to mention generously portioned) local tapas. The relaxed vibe – a relic of Almería’s Islamic past, perhaps – is also a feature of the traditional cafes and increasing number of tea houses.
Like in other Andalusian capitals, flamenco and bullfighting also have their place here. The beating heart of Almería’s nightlife is its old town, where you can party till the sun comes up.
Read on as we lift the lid on Almería’s wildest place for a real night out on the town.
First things first: tapas
We already covered some of the best places for tapas in Almería, but let’s have a quick recap for those wishing to line their stomach before things get too boozy.
Almost all of the city’s nightlife (the best tapas bars included) is concentrated in the old town, known locally as the Cuatro Calles or Four Streets.
Tapas usually happens at midday or later at 8.30 p.m., and places typically stay open until 1 a.m. at weekends. The custom is to choose a free tapa to enjoy with your drink. Here’s our pick of some of the city’s best tapas bars: Casa Puga (Jovellanos, 7), La Encina (Marín, 16), El Quinto Toro (Juan Leal), La Charka (Trajano, 8) and La Virgen Chica (Avenida Mediterráneo).
Almería’s tea houses
The legacy of Islamic culture in Almería coupled with the increase in the Muslim population over recent decades has led to a proliferation of tea houses in the city. Many of them now play a part in Almería’s nightlife, among them Tetería Almedina (Paz, 2) in the old town. It has a fantastic array of teas, sweets and couscous dishes, and don’t be surprised if there’s live music or other performances on Sundays. For a cosy romantic evening, head to Tetería Almeraya (Perea, 9) for a fine selection of teas and cocktails in intimate surroundings.
Las Cuatro Calles, home to Almería’s best bars
Almería’s old town is known locally as the Cuatro Calles or Four Streets and it’s here where you’ll find the best selection of bars and clubs in the city. Most establishments are on Calle Trajano, Calle González Ejea, Calle Padre Luque, Calle Álvarez de Castro, Calle Conde Onfalia and especially Plaza Masnou, a popular meeting place before the night really gets going. The majority of Almería’s bars and clubs open from around 10 p.m. until all hours.
Plaza Masnou has some of the city’s most popular bars with locals. Demodé Bar (Masnou, 3) has a relaxed feel and tends to shun pop and reggaeton in favour of alternative sounds and great electronic music sessions. Nearby is Kutre Pub (Séneca, 11), the best rock club in the Cuatro Calles. Enjoy a beer, kalimotxo (red wine and cola) or cocktail as you listen to some of the best rock, punk and ska of all time.
Delorean Music Club (Antonio Ledesma, 5) is another popular den, and children of the 80s will know which famous film inspired the name. The retro atmosphere and arcade machines will transport you to another time. It plays a great selection of indie music in a laid-back setting where you don’t need to shout to get yourself heard.
El Cafetín (Guzmán, 5) is geared towards a more mature crowd. Most of the clientele in this trendy joint is age 35+, with music to match from the 80s and 90s.
Calle San Pedro is the home of one of Almería’s best-loved bars: La Chica de Ayer. Don’t be fooled by the deceptively quiet weekday atmosphere. At the weekend, this place goes crazy.
Another three of the best – Mamá ya lo sabe, Vértice and La Parada – are all close to one another on Calle Eduardo Pérez. Expect good atmosphere, decent prices and great music.
Clubs in Almería: dance till dawn
If you’re still not satisfied after spending time in the bars of the Cuatro Calles then it’s time to hit one of Almería’s clubs.
La Clásica (Poeta Villaespesa, 4) isn’t too far from the bars of the old town. Enjoy elegant decor and generous opening times: it doesn’t wind down until 7 a.m.! Head there before 1 a.m. for free entry. Any later and you’ll pay for a ticket and first drink on the door.
Close by is Premium Black (Marqués de Comillas, 12). It’s a bit smaller but nonetheless popular with a variety of age groups. The music will keep you on the dance floor until the doors shut at 7 a.m.
