A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Almeria vs. Zaragoza for Food, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Almeria or Zaragoza?

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 Zaragoza. 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 breathtaking, pristine, and cultural region. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a compact, authentic, and cultural city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Almeria and Zaragoza: 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
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
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
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Almeria or Zaragoza?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Almeria than Zaragoza. While Zaragoza is larger than Almeria, Almeria has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Almeria is very popular for its food, resorts, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Zaragoza attracts visitors for its museums and shopping. Almeria is more touristy than Zaragoza and is known for its stunning beaches that feel pristine despite their popularity. It is also well known for The Alcazaba. Zaragoza is famous for its grand landmarks, local cuisine, and rich cultural scene.

How is Almeria different from Zaragoza?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza?

Almeria
Zaragoza

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. For such a small city, it really has a large number of cultural and historical attractions. The Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar is the most recognizable sight, but there's also the Museum of the Roman Forum of Caesaraugusta, the cathedral of Zaragoza, and the Aljafería Palace, among others.

Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Almeria
Zaragoza

Almeria is an amazing region to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Almeria is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Zaragoza. There are authentic restaurants that cater to locals and tourists alike. You'll also find some interesting food tours around town. Tapas are popular, as is chocolate and fresh, traditional recipes.

Is Almeria or Zaragoza Better for Nightlife?

Almeria
Zaragoza

It's hard to distinguish whether Almeria or Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza has a few options to choose from. The nightlife is at its best on weekends, when students and young locals head out on the town. Many evenings start with tapas and wine, but there are nightclubs and dancing as well.

Is Almeria or Zaragoza Better for Resorts?

Almeria
Zaragoza

Almeria is an amazing region to visit for its resorts. However, Zaragoza is not a resort destination.

Almeria offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Zaragoza is not a resort destination.


Is Almeria or Zaragoza Better for Beaches?

Almeria
Zaragoza

Almeria is an amazing region to visit for the beach. However, Zaragoza is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Almeria are among the best in the world. 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.

Zaragoza is not a beach destination.

Is Almeria or Zaragoza Better for its Old Town?

Almeria
Zaragoza

Visitors enjoy the great old town areas in both Almeria and Zaragoza.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Zaragoza. The old town is small but filled with monumental buildings and an authentic atmosphere.

Is Almeria or Zaragoza Better for Hiking?

Almeria
Zaragoza

Almeria is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Zaragoza is not a hiking destination.

Almeria is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Zaragoza is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Almeria or Zaragoza?

Almeria
Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a great destination for its shopping areas. However, Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Zaragoza. The city has many local shops selling locally produced items and interesting souvenirs. There are also boutiques, markets, and vintage shops that are fun to browse though.

Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Almeria or Zaragoza Better for Families?

Almeria
Zaragoza

Almeria is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Zaragoza is a family-friendly region. When your kids get their fill of architecture and history, you can head to the Zaragoza Aquarium. Also worth a visit is the Emoz Museum, which is an origami museum. And if you need a break from sightseeing, take a kayak out on the Ebro River.

Is Almeria or Zaragoza Better for Couples?

Almeria
Zaragoza

Almeria and Zaragoza both great 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.

Zaragoza is a great region if you're traveling as a couple. Filled with culture, beauty, and monumental buildings, this is a small and romantic city. It's particularly romantic at night when the streets are quiet and many of the buildings are lit up.


Is Almeria or Zaragoza Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Almeria
Zaragoza

Almeria is notable for backpackers. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Almeria is a very popular region for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Zaragoza is a good region to visit for backpackers. There are enough hostels around town to choose from, and while it's not the backpacker haven that some Spanish cities are, it still sees a good number of young travelers.

Is Almeria or Zaragoza Better for Students?

Almeria
Zaragoza

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

Zaragoza is popular with students. International students enjoy this small city because it has a local vibe where they can practice their Spanish and enjoy an authentic experience.

Almeria is not popular with students.

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

Almeria
Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Zaragoza. There are buses and trams around the city.

While Almeria offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are a number of bus lines that run through Almeria city and to Cabo de Gata.


Is Almeria or Zaragoza a more walkable city?

Almeria
Zaragoza

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

Zaragoza is a very walkable destination. The city center is very walkable.

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 Zaragoza Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zaragoza or Almeria?

How long in Almeria or Zaragoza?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Almeria and Zaragoza. In our opinion, Almeria has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Almeria than Zaragoza. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Almeria than Zaragoza. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Almeria than Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza? Ideal Length of Stay
    Almeria 1-3 
    Zaragoza 1-3

One day in Almeria or Zaragoza?

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 Zaragoza, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Almeria or Zaragoza?

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


Five days in Almeria or Zaragoza?

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.

Zaragoza is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Zaragoza?

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 Zaragoza. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Zaragoza. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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, Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza is €126. 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 Zaragoza in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Almeria 44
    Zaragoza 65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Almeria 88
    Zaragoza 130
Compare Hotels in Almeria and Zaragoza

Looking for a hotel in Almeria or Zaragoza? 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 Zaragoza


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: Zaragoza Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Almeria 20
    Zaragoza 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Almeria

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Almeria:

  • Private Transfer from Almeria Airport to / from Almeria Spain: $42
  • Tabernas: transfer + ticket Fort Bravo or Minihollywood: $62
  • Almería Private Transfer from the city centre or Cabo de Gata to Almería Airport: $66
  • Almería Private Transfer from Almería Airport to City centre or Cabo de Gata: $66
  • Transfers desde Aeropuerto de Almería (LEI) a Vera Playa - 4 pasajeros: $125

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zaragoza

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zaragoza:

  • Private transfers Airport-hotel Zaragoza.: $65
  • Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) to Zaragoza Downtown hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) to Zaragoza Downtown hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $54
  • Zaragoza Downtown hotels to Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $27
  • Zaragoza Private Transfer from Zaragoza Airport to City centre: $65
  • Zaragoza Private Transfer from the city centre to Zaragoza Airport: $65

Is it cheaper to fly into Almeria or Zaragoza?

Prices for flights to both Zaragoza 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
    Zaragoza 41

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zaragoza

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

  • Midday Market Tour and Spanish Cooking Class: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Almeria 16
    Zaragoza 35

Tours and Activities in Almeria

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

  • Convent of the Puras Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket: $5.33
  • Almería: Cathedral Entry Ticket: $7.46
  • Almería: Cathedral and Convent of the Puras Entry Ticket: $9.59
  • Spanish Civil War Shelters Ticket and Official Tour: $11
  • Almería: Legends and Mysteries Evening Walking Tour: $11
  • Almería: Cathedral and Monastery of Las Puras Guided Tour: $12
  • Shelters of Spanish Civil War | Spanish Tour: $14
  • History and Hidden Corners Essential Walking Tour: $14
  • Andalusia: Almeria Cathedral Entry with Guided Tour: $16
  • Almería: Guided City Discovery Tour: $16
  • Alcazaba Guided Tour: $16
  • Fort Bravo Entrance Ticket: $21

Tours and Activities in Zaragoza

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zaragoza are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $4.26
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $4.26
  • Zaragoza Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.52
  • Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.78
  • Zaragoza Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.98
  • Zaragoza : Aquarium entry ticket: $19
  • Zaragoza Aquarium Admission Ticket: $20
  • Combo Amusement Park and Aquarium entry ticket: $33
  • Kayaking in Fluvial EcoTourism with ebroNAUTAS: $43
  • Private custom tour with a local guide: $48
  • Zaragoza : Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $48

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Almeria 4.29
    Zaragoza 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Almeria

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

  • Almería Visit to Eco Winery Cortijo El Cura and wine tasting: $24
  • Almería Wine tour and tasting in English in Bio Winery: $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Zaragoza

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

  • Wine Tasting and Tapas: $101
  • Wine Tasting and Tapas in the ancient Town of Zaragoza: $103


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Almeria and Zaragoza, we can see that Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Almeria or Zaragoza?

Zaragoza has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Almeria. When comparing the sizes of Almeria and Zaragoza, 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 Zaragoza?

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 Zaragoza in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Almeria and Zaragoza. Many visitors come to Almeria in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Zaragoza for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Almeria is around the same temperature as Zaragoza in the summer. The daily temperature in Almeria averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Zaragoza fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zaragoza this time of the year. In Almeria, it's very sunny this time of the year. Almeria usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zaragoza during summer. Almeria gets 343 hours of sunny skies, while Zaragoza receives 344 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Almeria usually receives less rain than Zaragoza. Almeria gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Almeria 26°C (78°F) 
    Zaragoza 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Zaragoza in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Almeria as well as Zaragoza. Most visitors come to Almeria for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Zaragoza because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Almeria is a little warmer than Zaragoza. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Almeria in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Zaragoza averages at about 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Almeria this time of the year. In the autumn, Almeria often gets more sunshine than Zaragoza. Almeria gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zaragoza receives 196 hours of full sun.

Almeria usually gets less rain in October than Zaragoza. Almeria gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Almeria 20°C (68°F) 
    Zaragoza 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Zaragoza in the Winter?

Both Zaragoza and Almeria are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Almeria because of the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zaragoza this time of year.

In January, Almeria is generally much warmer than Zaragoza. Daily temperatures in Almeria average around 13°C (55°F), and Zaragoza fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Almeria usually receives more sunshine than Zaragoza during winter. Almeria gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Zaragoza receives 131 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Almeria usually receives more rain than Zaragoza. Almeria gets 27 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Almeria 13°C (55°F) 
    Zaragoza 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Zaragoza in the Spring?

Both Zaragoza and Almeria during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Almeria this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zaragoza for the natural beauty.

Almeria is a little warmer than Zaragoza in the spring. The daily temperature in Almeria averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Zaragoza fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In Zaragoza, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Almeria. In the spring, Almeria often gets more sunshine than Zaragoza. Almeria gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zaragoza receives 217 hours of full sun.

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Almeria 16°C (61°F) 
    Zaragoza 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Zaragoza and Almeria

Almeria Zaragoza
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Feb 13°C (56°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 10°C (50°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Mar 14°C (58°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 26 mm (1 in) 15°C (58°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 19°C (65°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 23°C (73°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 26°C (79°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 1 mm (0 in) 26°C (78°F) 25 mm (1 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 16°C (61°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 12°C (53°F) 39 mm (1.6 in)
Dec 13°C (56°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 26 mm (1 in)