Almeria, in Andalusia, has been named the happiest city in Spain in a new report thanks to its warm climate and lack of rainfall – and it’s easy to see why it’s so happy
Located in one of Spain’s most sought-after regions, this stunning city was crowned the “happiest” in 2024 and is poised to become a top tourist destination. According to the Spain Happy Index report by Sonneil, a technology company, Almeria in Andalusia took the top spot due to its pleasant climate and scarce rainfall.
With an average temperature of 17C and only 29 rainy days per year, Almeria offers a stark contrast to the UK, which experienced 171.5 rainy days in 2023. The city’s excellent transportation links, proximity to hospitals and airports, and a score of 92.17 points, surpassing all other cities, make it an attractive destination. Almeria boasts a breathtaking coastline with landscapes of exceptional beauty and a consistently pleasant climate throughout the year.
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Situated in a popular region of Spain, Almeria serves as an ideal base for exploring the surrounding villages and towns. The city itself offers a wide range of activities, from shopping in boutique stores to dining at some of Spain’s finest restaurants.
La Rambla, a picturesque tree-lined avenue, runs through the city centre, leading to the port and beaches, and features street cafes, boutique shops, and playgrounds for children.
For those looking for a more extensive shopping experience, Paseo de Almeria, the main road, is lined with numerous shops, ranging from small boutiques to high-end designer brands. Avenida del Mediterraneo, a bustling artery of the city centre, is home to the Mediterraneo shopping complex, reports the Express.
The area also boasts a train station, providing easy access to other cities and towns in the vicinity. Numerous bus routes crisscross the city, ferrying both tourists and locals around.
Dominating one end of the port is the imposing Cables Ingles, a massive iron railway bridge constructed by a British mining company in the early 20th century, a testament to Almeria’s industrial heritage from its mining era.
Currently, it’s undergoing restoration to be showcased as a tourist attraction. The Barrio de la Chanca, or the cave quarter, forms part of the old town and is a must-see for visitors.
Some families still reside in the vibrant, cave-like dwellings carved into the hillside rocks. Over the weekend, a tourist train meanders through the old quarter and port area, offering a leisurely way to take in the city’s sights.
The journey begins at Plaza de Emilio Perez, with the timetable available on the Almeria Turismo website.