Almería’s economy is largely driven by agriculture, tourism, and film production. The region is known as “Europe’s vegetable garden” due to its extensive greenhouse farming, which produces large quantities of fruits and vegetables for export across Europe. The city’s favorable climate and modern agricultural techniques have turned Almería into one of the most productive agricultural areas in Spain. Visitors can tour the famous “Sea of Plastic,” the vast stretch of greenhouses visible from space, to learn more about the region’s agricultural innovations.
Tourism is another key industry, with visitors flocking to Almería’s beaches, natural parks, and historical sites year-round. The combination of sun, sea, and culture makes it an attractive destination for both domestic and international tourists. The city has also developed a niche in film tourism, with fans visiting the Tabernas Desert and nearby film sets where iconic movies like “Lawrence of Arabia” and “The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly” were shot.
Almería’s economy is also supported by port activities, as the city has one of the busiest commercial ports in Andalusia, facilitating trade with North Africa and beyond. The local crafts industry, particularly ceramics and textiles, is also a vibrant part of the economy, with traditional Andalusian designs highly sought after by tourists.