A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Almeria vs. Alicante for Food, Beaches, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Almeria or Alicante?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Almeria and Alicante. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Almeria

Almeria is a natural, breathtaking, and pristine region. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and nightlife.

Alicante

Alicante is a colorful, authentic, and vibrant city. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Almeria and Alicante: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach


Is there more to do in Almeria or Alicante?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Almeria than Alicante. While Alicante is larger than Almeria, Almeria has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Almeria is more popular for its food, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Alicante is known for its museums and shopping. Almeria is more touristy than Alicante and is known for its stunning beaches that feel pristine despite their popularity. It is also home to The Alcazaba. Alicante is popular for its sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and authentic restaurants.

How is Almeria different from Alicante?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Alicante and Almeria. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Almeria or Alicante?

Almeria
Alicante

Alicante is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Alicante. This port city has a number of cultural and historical sights that are worth checking out. Castillo de Santa Bárbara, Museo Arqueológico Provincial de Alicante, and Basilica de Santa María are among the most well known.

Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Almeria or Alicante? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Almeria
Alicante

Almeria is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Almeria has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The food is focused on local, fresh ingredients with many traditional recipes that have been passed down for centuries. Popular dishes change with the seasons because they rely so heavily on local produce. Particularly during the winter months you'll find hearty stews like patatas en ajopollo and gurullos con conejo, which is prepared with rabbit. Sardines are also popular year round.

Alicante has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's by the sea, so you'll find plenty of seafood. Rice is the main staple for many dishes in town. This is also a vegetable growing region, so many recipes incorporate fresh vegetables. Popular dishes include arroz a banda, arroz con costra, and olleta alicantina.

Is Almeria or Alicante Better for Nightlife?

Almeria
Alicante

It's hard to distinguish whether Almeria or Alicante has a better nightlife scene.

Almeria has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city's nightlife vibe is about enjoying a cold beer on a terrace with friends. The city has a laid back Mediterranean atmosphere and plenty of terraced bars along the main streets, particularly in old town. With mild temperatures year around, you'll find yourself spending time outside most evenings while you enjoy tapas and drinks with friends. Flamenco and bullfighting are also popular in the evenings.

If you're looking for night time activities Alicante has a few options to choose from. For the city's best nightlife, head to El Barrio Antiguo, which is the old district. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of bars and clubs, many of them having live music.

Is Almeria or Alicante Better for Resorts?

Almeria
Alicante

Almeria is terrific for its resorts. However, Alicante is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Almeria is a perfect choice. Stretched along the coastline you'll find many high end resorts with pools and nice atmospheres. There are all inclusive resorts as well as family-friendly and romantic options to choose from.

Alicante is not a resort destination.


Is Almeria or Alicante Better for Beaches?

Almeria
Alicante

Almeria is terrific for the beache. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

With world-famous beaches, Almeria is a very popular vacation destination. Outside of town you'll find kilometers of stunning coastline and beaches. There are pristine natural beaches that still feel undiscovered with beautiful long stretches of sand. One of the biggest resort areas is Roquetas de Mar.

Alicante has a beach worth visiting. If you step away from the touristy areas, you'll find some nice sandy beaches with blue water. Playa la Fustera is northeast of the city and popular with families and couples. If you have a car you can drive to the town of Moraira, which is near several nice beaches as well.

Is Almeria or Alicante Better for its Old Town?

Almeria
Alicante

Almeria is well known for its old town. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Almeria. The old town is at the cultural heart of the city. It has the most energy during the evenings, as well as many museums and sights worth visiting.

Alicante has an old town worth visiting. The old district is filled with charming streets and some interesting museums. There are also a number of good restaurants in the area.

Is Almeria or Alicante Better for Hiking?

Almeria
Alicante

Almeria is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Alicante is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Almeria. The area has stunning hikes that run along the coastline or into the beautiful interior countryside. For some of the area's best hikes head into Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park.

Alicante is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Almeria or Alicante?

Almeria
Alicante

Alicante is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Alicante to go shopping. The city is known for its leather goods, but you'll also find international brands and shopping streets with fashion and different European names.

Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Almeria or Alicante Better for Families?

Almeria
Alicante

Both Almeria and Alicante are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Almeria is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has many beautiful beaches as well as waterparks, amusement parks, and fun activities like sailing and water sports. There's also a very impressive fort that the kids will enjoy exploring.

Alicante is a very family-friendly destination. This seaside city has many kid-friendly resorts, long sandy beaches, and adrenaline-filled theme parks. There's the Terra Mitica Park as well as a waterpark - Aqua Natura. Tabarca Island is also well worth a visit.

Is Almeria or Alicante Better for Couples?

Almeria
Alicante

Almeria and Alicante both high quality destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Almeria frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Nature lovers and beach enthusiasts will find this to be the perfect romantic getaway. There are many outdoor activities and places to immerse yourself in nature. A highlight of a trip is a visit to Crystal Cave.

Alicante is a great region if you're traveling as a couple. Nice resorts, long sandy beaches, and nearby vineyard tours make this a wonderful place for a couple's getaway. There are good restaurants and nice places where couples can take a stroll, hand in hand.


Is Almeria or Alicante Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Almeria
Alicante

Almeria is well known for backpackers. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Almeria is a great region to visit for backpackers. There's plenty of affordable accommodation to choose from as well as all kinds of activities that backpackers will enjoy. If you like nature and enjoy spending time outside, then this is your place.

It's common for backpackers to visit Alicante. There are hostels around town, as well as many budget-friendly hotels, so this is an affordable oceanfront destination for the budget-minded.

Is Almeria or Alicante Better for Students?

Almeria
Alicante

Alicante is a good destination for students. However, Almeria is not popular with students.

Alicante is popular with students. It's by the water and it's an affordable city, making it a good option for students. The beaches and active nightlife will keep you entertained when you take a break from your studies.

Almeria is not popular with students.

Is Almeria or Alicante Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Almeria
Alicante

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Almeria and Alicante.

You'll find some public transit in Almeria, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are a number of bus lines that run through Almeria city and to Cabo de Gata.

While Alicante offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive bus system through the city and region.


Is Almeria or Alicante a more walkable city?

Almeria
Alicante

Alicante is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Almeria is a region with minimal options for its walkability.

Alicante is a somewhat walkable city. There are many parts of the city that can be explored on foot.

Almeria is generally not a very walkable region. While there are many beautiful walks in the area, if you want to truly explore, you'll likely want to have access to a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Almeria Worth Visiting? and Is Alicante Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Alicante or Almeria?

How long in Almeria or Alicante?

It's fun to spend time in either Almeria or Alicante. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Alicante due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Almeria, and 2-4 days is enough time in Alicante.

Families should spend more time in Almeria than Alicante. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Almeria, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Almeria than Alicante. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Almeria that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Almeria than Alicante if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Almeria.


  • How many days in Almeria or Alicante? Ideal Length of Stay
    Almeria 1-3 
    Alicante 2-4

One day in Almeria or Alicante?

The beautiful region of Almeria offers food and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Alicante, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Almeria or Alicante?

Almeria is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this region makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Almeria, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Alicante, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Alicante has to offer.


Five days in Almeria or Alicante?

Almeria is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Alicante is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Almeria or Alicante?

Almeria is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This region offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alicante. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Alicante. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona, The Best 2-Week Tours from Madrid, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Barcelona.


Which place is cheaper, Alicante or Almeria?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Almeria is €99, while the average daily cost in Alicante is €127. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Almeria and Alicante in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Almeria 44
    Alicante 42
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Almeria 88
    Alicante 84
Compare Hotels in Almeria and Alicante

Looking for a hotel in Almeria or Alicante? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Almeria


Hotels in Alicante


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Alicante Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Almeria 20
    Alicante -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Almeria

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Almeria:

  • Almería Private Transfer from Almería Airport to City centre or Cabo de Gata: $66
  • Almería Private Transfer from the city centre or Cabo de Gata to Almería Airport: $66
  • Private Transfer from Almeria Airport to / from Almeria Spain: $42
  • Transfers desde Aeropuerto de Almería (LEI) a Vera Playa - 4 pasajeros: $126

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Alicante

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Alicante:

  • Albir: Alicante Airport (ALC) Private Transfer: $91
  • Alicante Airport (El Altet) (ALC) Arrival Transfer (Airport to Alicante Hotels): $79
  • Alicante Airport(ALC) to Alicante City: Arrival Private Transfer: $16
  • Airport Transfer Alicante - Valencia: $204
  • Bullring and Castle Guided Tour with Taxi Transfer: $75
  • Private transfer Alicante Airport - Altea Hills: $96
  • Arrival Transfer Alicante Airport ALC to Alicante by Business Car: $51
  • Calpe: Alicante Airport (ALC) Private Transfer: $113
  • Private Roundtrip Transfer from Alicante Airport ALC to Alicante: $22
  • Private Transfer - Alicante Airport (ALC) to Alicante Cruise Port: $40
  • Private Transfer - Alicante Cruise Port to Alicante Airport (ALC): $40
  • Private Transfer Round Trip Alicante Airport and Campello: $77

Is it cheaper to fly into Almeria or Alicante?

Prices for flights to both Alicante and Almeria change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Almeria 40
    Alicante 72

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Almeria

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Almeria.

  • Spanish Paella Private Online Cooking Class: $40
  • Private Authentic Spanish Cooking Class with Juan in Almeria: $94

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Alicante

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Alicante.

  • Secret Flavors Food Tour: $31
  • Cooking with us: Pasta Cooking Class in Alicante: $57
  • Paella and Sangria Cooking Workshop: $61
  • Paella and Sangría Cooking Workshop: $65
  • Central Market Guided Food Tour with Tapas Bars: $71
  • Alicante Food Tour: $72
  • Fuse Spanish With Italian For Dinner In Mutxamel: $90
  • Alicante PRIVATE Food Tour With Locals: 10 Food & Drink Tastings Included: $137
  • Cooking Class with Private Chef and Local Wine: $179
  • Alicante cooking class with a private chef: $182

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Almeria 16
    Alicante 53

Tours and Activities in Almeria

Here are a few actual costs in Almeria for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Fort Bravo Entrance Ticket: $21
  • Almeria : Private Custom Walking Tour With A Local Guide: $49
  • Almeria like a Local: Customized Private Tour : $53
  • Full-Day Western Theme Park Tour of Mini Hollywood - Oasys: $70
  • Sailing experience along the coast of Cabo de Gata in Almería: $99

Typical Entertainment Prices in Alicante

Here are a few typical costs in Alicante for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Food and Tapas Tour (for 2)
    54
  • Catamaran Cruise (for 2)
    67
  • Wine Tasting Tour (for 2)
    120
  • Walking Tour (for 2)
    60

Tours and Activities in Alicante

Here are a few actual costs in Alicante for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Tour de historias y leyendas del Castillo de Santa Bárbara: $13
  • 2-Hour Private Tour of the Basilica of Santa María de Elche: $18
  • Highlights Bike Tour: $28
  • Alicante Discovery Tour from Benidorm: $28
  • Guided City Highlights Walking Tour: $29
  • Seven Secrets of Alicante Discovery Tour: $31
  • Alicante Food and Tapas Tour with a Local Guide : $32
  • Alicante Historic Small Group Tour with Tapas Tasting: $32
  • City. Discover Alicante by E-Bike & walking tour: $33
  • City and Beach Bike Tour: $33
  • Calas and Beaches E-Bike Tour with Snorkeling: $33
  • Alicante City & Beach Bike Tour : $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Almeria 4.29
    Alicante -

Sample the Local Flavors in Almeria

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Almeria:

  • Visit to Eco Winery Cortijo El Cura and wine tasting in English: $24
  • Visit to Eco Winery Cortijo El Cura and wine tasting in Spanish: $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Alicante

Also in Alicante, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Santa Bárbara Castle Wine Tasting with Cold Cuts: $28
  • Vineyards of Wine Tasting Tour: $74
  • Alicante Wine Tour with Wine Tasting : $75
  • Private Tour of Vinalopó Castles and Wine Tasting: $82
  • Food Walking Tour with Wine Tasting and Tapas: $147
  • Alicante Wine Tasting and Tapas for Foodies: $149
  • Private premium wine tasting and tapas : $179
  • Total Alicante walking tour, tapas and wine tasting: $269


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Almeria and Alicante, we can see that Alicante is more expensive. And not only is Almeria much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Almeria would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Almeria and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Alicante would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Alicante than you might in Almeria.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Almeria Expensive? and Is Alicante Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Almeria or Alicante?

Alicante has a larger population, and is about 76% larger than the population of Almeria. When comparing the sizes of Almeria and Alicante, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Almeria or Alicante?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Almeria or Alicante in the Summer?

Both Alicante and Almeria are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Almeria for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Alicante in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Almeria is generally around the same temperature as Alicante. Daily temperatures in Almeria average around 26°C (78°F), and Alicante fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Alicante. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Almeria. Almeria usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Alicante during summer. Almeria gets 343 hours of sunny skies, while Alicante receives 341 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Almeria usually receives less rain than Alicante. Almeria gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Alicante receives 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Almeria 26°C (78°F) 
    Alicante 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Alicante in the Autumn?

Both Alicante and Almeria during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Almeria in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Alicante for the shopping scene during these months.

Almeria is around the same temperature as Alicante in the autumn. The daily temperature in Almeria averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Alicante fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Alicante, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Almeria. In the autumn, Almeria often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Alicante. Almeria gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alicante receives 225 hours of full sun.

Almeria usually gets less rain in October than Alicante. Almeria gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Alicante receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Almeria 20°C (68°F) 
    Alicante 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Alicante in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Almeria and Alicante. Most visitors come to Almeria for the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Alicante because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Almeria is a little warmer than Alicante. Typically, the winter temperatures in Almeria in January average around 13°C (55°F), and Alicante averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Almeria usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Alicante during winter. Almeria gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Alicante receives 178 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Almeria usually receives more rain than Alicante. Almeria gets 27 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Alicante receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Almeria 13°C (55°F) 
    Alicante 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Alicante in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Almeria as well as Alicante. The spring months attract visitors to Almeria because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches are the main draw to Alicante this time of year.

In April, Almeria is generally around the same temperature as Alicante. Daily temperatures in Almeria average around 16°C (61°F), and Alicante fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Alicante. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Almeria this time of the year. In the spring, Almeria often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Alicante. Almeria gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alicante receives 243 hours of full sun.

Almeria usually gets less rain in April than Alicante. Almeria gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Alicante receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Almeria 16°C (61°F) 
    Alicante 16°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Alicante and Almeria

Almeria Alicante
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Feb 13°C (56°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 27 mm (1.1 in)
Mar 14°C (58°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 14°C (57°F) 25 mm (1 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 26 mm (1 in) 16°C (60°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 25°C (77°F) 4 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 1 mm (0 in) 26°C (78°F) 8 mm (0.3 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 16°C (61°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 15°C (59°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Dec 13°C (56°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)