Things To Do
in Ciudad de Melilla
Ciudad de Melilla is a Spanish autonomous city on the north African coast where Mediterranean charm blends with cross-border energy. Its fortified casbah, bustling markets, and seaside promenades reveal a fusion of Spanish and Moroccan influences. The city is compact and walkable, with a mix of colonial architecture and modern neighborhoods.
Visitors can explore its borderland vibe, sample diverse cuisines, and enjoy panoramic coastal views from the high viewpoints around the Península.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the impressive Melilla la Vieja, the city's fortified old town. Wander through its narrow cobblestone streets, where the blend of Spanish and Moorish architecture will enchant you. Don't forget to capture stunning photos of the iconic walls and the views of the Mediterranean Sea from the ramparts.
After a delightful lunch at a local café, explore the vibrant Plaza de España. Here, you can admire the beautiful architecture of the surrounding buildings, including the impressive City Hall. Take some time to visit the nearby Museum of Melilla, where you can learn about the city's rich history and culture.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a restaurant overlooking the harbor for dinner. Enjoy fresh seafood dishes while watching the boats gently sway in the water. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, soaking in the enchanting atmosphere of the city at night.
Begin your day at Playa de la Hipica, a beautiful sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and relaxation. Rent a sunbed and umbrella, and enjoy the warm sun while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves. If you're feeling adventurous, sign up for a morning session of paddleboarding or jet skiing.
After an exhilarating morning, grab lunch at a beachside chiringuito (beach bar) and savor some delicious paella or tapas. Post-lunch, dive into some beach games, whether it's beach volleyball or frisbee with friends. The calm waters also provide an excellent opportunity for swimming or snorkeling to explore the underwater life.
As evening approaches, watch the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink from the beach. Head to one of the local seafood restaurants nearby for a fresh catch of the day while enjoying the ocean breeze. End the night with a cocktail at a beach bar, listening to live music and enjoying the vibrant beach nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🚶One-way public transit ticket | $1-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🍷Dinner for two, mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city with rich cross-cultural heritage
- Excellent seafood and diverse Moroccan-Spanish cuisine
- Border areas can be busy and sometimes stressful for first-time visitors
- Nightlife is modest compared to larger Spanish cities
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor." - A table for two, please.
Places to Visit in Ciudad de Melilla
Visit one of these nice places.
Dramatic sea backdrops and ancient ramparts offer striking sunset and silhouette shots of the old fortifications.
Long coastal promenade with fishing boats, modern façades, and ocean horizons—great for sunrise and candid street scenes.
Characterful squares with palm trees, arches, and whitewashed buildings ideal for architectural photography.
Food in Ciudad de Melilla
Ciudad de Melilla Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty couscous dish with meat and vegetables, often enriched with preserved lemons and olives; widely served in traditional eateries.
Must-Try!
A fragrant lamb tagine with dried fruits and spices, slow-cooked to tender perfection, commonly found in Moroccan-inspired restaurants.
A delicate chicken pie with layered pastry and lightly spiced filling, a staple at many Casbah restaurants.
Lightly fried whole fish or fillets served with lemon and herbs, a staple along the seafront dining scene.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market hall offering fresh seafood, produce, olives, spices, and local snacks—great for tasting and people-watching.
Casual stalls along the marina offering grilled sardines, fried fish, kebabs, and Moroccan sweets perfect for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'hola' or 'buenos días.' Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; remove shoes if required and be respectful in mosques or traditional neighborhoods.
Be mindful near border areas and crowded markets; ask permission before photographing people in private spaces; avoid loud behavior late at night in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Ciudad de Melilla
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Melilla is common but not mandatory. Leave around 5-10% for good service at sit-down restaurants; round up taxi fares; small tips for hotel staff are appreciated.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops; cash remains common in markets and smaller venues. ATMs are plentiful, and contactless payments are increasingly available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with coastal breeze. Plan outdoor activities early in the morning and late afternoon; stay hydrated and protect yourself from strong sun.
Mild temperatures with comfortable humidity; a good time for walking, markets, and outdoor photography without peak heat.
Mild Mediterranean winter; occasional rain. Layered clothing recommended, especially for coastal walks and early mornings.
Pleasant, moderate temperatures with blooming flora; ideal for hikes, outdoor dining, and exploring markets without crowds.
Ciudad de Melilla at Night
Hiking in Ciudad de Melilla
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short hilltop hike within the vicinity offering city views and historical ruins, suitable for an easy day outdoors.
Easy coastal path along the peninsula with sea views and opportunities to watch seabirds and waves crash against the rocks.
Airports
How to reach Ciudad de Melilla by plane.
Primary airport serving the city with connections to Madrid and other Spanish cities; easy taxi or shuttle access to the city center.
A nearby Moroccan airport located across the border region; useful for regional travel and onward connections, with transfers by road or ferry available to Melilla.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, alongside a strong Moroccan-origin community; multilingual and culturally diverse.
Long-standing residents contributing rich cultural traditions and culinary influences.
Tourists and expatriates who contribute to a cosmopolitan atmosphere in cafés and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport with local clubs and matches that attract community support, played at multiple city venues.
Popular in schools and community centers; local leagues and gatherings occur year-round.
Diving, snorkeling, and kayaking along the coast are enjoyed by locals and visitors near the marina.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ciudad de Melilla.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in many places—look for salads, hummus, falafel, vegetable tagines, and vegetable couscous. In Morocco-influenced spots, clarify no meat or fish if needed; many kitchens can adapt dishes upon request.