Melilla

When planning to travel to Melilla, you are setting off for an amazing Spanish city on the North African coast, where magnificent modernist architecture and Oriental charm harmoniously intertwine. Figuring out how to get to Melilla is quite simple: travellers have access to regular flights, as well as a scenic ferry crossing, which can be reached by car or train via the ports of mainland Spain. Whether you choose a quick flight or a sea voyage, a visit to this distinctive enclave will provide a wealth of vivid impressions.

The fastest way to reach your destination is by air. Melilla has its own airport (IATA code: MLN), located just a few kilometres from the city centre, making arrival extremely convenient for travellers.

Air connections are primarily established with mainland Spain. The main flow of flights arrives from Malaga and Madrid. The flight from Malaga takes very little time — about 35–45 minutes, while you can fly from the country's capital in approximately two hours. Flights are also periodically operated from other cities, such as Almeria, Granada, or Seville.

The airport itself is compact and intuitive. Thanks to its close proximity to residential areas, the journey to your hotel by taxi or public transport will take minimal time, allowing you to immediately immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this unique city.

There is no railway station in Melilla itself, so it is impossible to get here exclusively by train. However, railway enthusiasts often choose combined routes, turning the journey into a real adventure. The most popular and comfortable option is travelling through mainland Spain followed by a transfer to sea transport.

Thanks to the developed network of high-speed trains (AVE), tourists can quickly travel from Madrid, Barcelona, or other major cities to the ports of the southern coast. The endpoints of the railway route are usually the stations in Malaga or Almeria. A trip through Andalusia will offer magnificent views from the window, and upon arrival at the station, you will only need to get to the port and transfer to a ferry heading to the shores of the enclave.

An alternative route is suitable for those travelling through North Africa. The nearest railway hub is in the Moroccan city of Nador, located just 13 kilometres from the border. The station receives trains from Fez, Casablanca, and Tangier. You can also travel to the city of Oujda, and cover the remaining part of the journey by bus or grand taxi, which will take you directly to the checkpoint.

Bus services connect the Spanish enclave with neighbouring Moroccan cities, offering travellers a budget-friendly and authentic way to reach the border. The main flow of tourists arrives via Nador, located just 15 kilometres away: the trip takes about half an hour and ends at the border crossing, which must be crossed on foot. This is the most convenient transit option for those travelling around North Africa who wish to visit Melilla.

For trips from more distant points in the region, there are regular services connecting the coast and inland areas to the border. The road from the picturesque city of Al Hoceima will take about three hours, covering a distance of approximately 130 kilometres along the sea. The journey from the city of Oujda, located 160 kilometres to the east, lasts a little longer but allows you to see the changing landscapes before arriving at the checkpoint.

For those who prefer freedom of movement, a trip to Melilla by car often begins on the European continent. The route runs through mainland Spain: driving along scenic motorways, such as the Mediterranean highway A-7 or the A-45 route, drivers reach the ports of Malaga or Almeria. Convenient car loading onto ferries is organised here, allowing you to transport your personal vehicle across the sea and explore the enclave in comfort.

If you plan to enter from the Moroccan side, the path lies through the Beni-Enzar border crossing. Unlike taxi passengers who usually cross the border on foot, travellers in their own cars drive through the checkpoint directly behind the wheel. A key point for drivers is the possession of international insurance (the so-called "Green Card") and a full package of documents for the car. It is also worth allowing extra time for customs and passport control, as traffic at the border can be quite heavy.

A trip to Melilla promises to be exciting thanks to the unique blend of cultures and architectural styles. To ensure your trip is as comfortable and carefree as possible, we have prepared several useful recommendations that will help you adapt quickly to this vibrant city.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The climate here is Mediterranean, so for a summer trip, choose light natural fabrics, sunglasses, and a hat. In winter, the weather is mild but can be windy, so a light jacket or windbreaker will be useful, and comfortable flat shoes are indispensable for walking on the cobblestones of the old fortress.
2. Transport: The historical city centre is quite compact, and many sights are best explored on foot. For trips over longer distances, it is convenient to use local taxis — they are very affordable here and operate strictly by the meter, which eliminates the need to bargain.
3. Finance: Since the city is part of the state of Spain, the official currency here is the Euro. Bank cards are accepted in most restaurants, hotels, and shops; however, it is always worth having a small supply of cash for purchases at local markets or paying for minor services.
4. Health and Safety: This is a calm city with European standards of medicine and safety. Pharmacies are easily recognised by the glowing green cross, and many basic medicines are available without a prescription. It is not recommended to drink tap water; it is better to buy bottled water.
5. Communication: The main language of communication is Spanish, although the Riffian dialect can often be heard on the streets. English is understood by staff at hotels and major tourist sites, but knowing a few basic phrases in Spanish (greetings, gratitude) will help you find a common language with local residents faster.
6. Local Etiquette: It is customary here to greet people when entering a lift or a small shop. It is important to remember the siesta: many shops and institutions close for a break roughly from 14:00 to 17:00, so plan your shopping and important errands for the morning or evening.
7. What to Avoid: Refrain from photographing police officers, military facilities, and border structures — this is prohibited and may raise questions from security services. Also, do not leave personal belongings unattended on beaches and in crowded places.
8. Extra Tip: Take advantage of the city's special tax status. Many goods (perfumes, electronics, clothing) are cheaper here than on the mainland, making shopping a particularly attractive activity.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on exploring the rich history, magnificent Art Nouveau architecture, and gastronomic delights of this amazing corner of the world.