Some of the most beautiful Spanish cities are outside of Spain

Ceuta and Melilla are nestled along the northern coast of Africa. Due to their rich history and unique geographical position, these cities are comprised of a rich array of cultures and traditions.

Here, we present a guide on what to visit in the most beautiful Spanish cities outside of mainland Spain. Read on to discover!

Ceuta: Where the East meets the West

Although geographically located in Morocco, Ceuta has been part of Spain since the 15th century. This city also forms the only land border between the European Union and Africa. It is located on the Strait of Gibraltar, which connects the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.

Ceuta is also known as the “pearl of the Mediterranean” due to its cultural diversity. Source: iStock

The Spanish city of Ceuta is often called the “pearl of the Mediterranean” because it brings together four cultures and religions: Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and Hinduism. As in the rest of Spain, the official language is Spanish, but Arabic is also widely spoken due to a large population of North African origin. This blend of cultures is woven throughout the city. In Ceuta, you will find churches, mosques, synagogues, and even Hindu temples. Holidays from all religions are celebrated here.

Why visit Ceuta?

This Spanish city offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. If you love history and architecture, you will be impressed by the Murallas Reales, a fortress with ramparts dating back to 962. You can walk through old guardhouses, climb the walls, and enjoy views of the city and the port.

Explore the Murallas Reales fortress in the Spanish city of Ceuta in Africa. Source: iStock

If you want to learn more about Ceuta’s history, the City Museum offers insight into the city’s past from ancient times. During your visit, don’t miss the Casa de los Dragones (House of the Dragons), a palace built in 1905 located in Plaza de los Reyes. The palace gets its name from the four distinctive dragon sculptures on its roof, making it a popular photo spot.

Visit the 1905 palace located in Plaza de los Reyes. Source: iStock

Beyond the fascinating architecture and history in the city centre, head to Monte Hacho hill for nature and breathtaking panoramic views. On Monte Hacho, there is a military fortress overlooking all of Ceuta, the Strait of Gibraltar, and on clear days, even the Spanish and Moroccan coasts.

Climb Monte Hacho hill above Ceuta and enjoy the view. Source: iStock

How to get to Ceuta from Spain?

You can begin your journey with a direct ferry from Algeciras to Ceuta. On this route, there are more than 15 ferries per day, and the cheapest one-way ticket can be found from €39. The journey takes just one hour and all ferries allow vehicle boarding.

Check offers from these ferry companies for more information on schedules and prices: Baleària, FRS DFDS, and Naviera Armas. If you are travelling with children, all three operators offer discounts for kids, which you can book via the Ferryscanner app.

Melilla: A “living museum” of Art Nouveau architecture

The Spanish cities of Melilla and Ceuta share a similar history. Melilla also became part of Spanish territory in the 15th century. For a long time, it was under the Spanish province of Málaga, but like Ceuta, it became an autonomous Spanish city in 1995. Today, Melilla, along with Ceuta, is one of only two Spanish cities on the African mainland that politically belong to Europe.

Ensenada de los Galápagos beach hidden between the walls of Melilla’s old town. Source: iStock

Similar to Ceuta, Melilla is home to four different cultures. In addition to its vibrant cultural mix, Melilla is also known for its distinctive architecture. At the beginning of the 20th century, many buildings in this Spanish city were designed in Modernist (Art Nouveau) and Art Deco styles. The city has more than 900 examples of modernist architecture. This unique cityscape is thanks to Enrique Nieto, a student of the famous Antoni Gaudí.

Why visit Melilla?

Although Melilla covers only 12 square kilometres, it is full of landmarks reflecting its rich and colourful history. The old town, Melilla la Vieja, is located on a peninsula that stretches into the sea. It is a complex of massive fortresses and walls dating back to the 16th century. Inside the old town, you can wander narrow streets that hide the Plaza de las Peñuelas, the Church of La Concepción, and the City Museum.

View of the old town of Melilla la Vieja in Melilla. Source: iStock

Opposite the old town, in the Ensanche district, you can admire Art Nouveau architecture built at the beginning of the 20th century. One of the most beautiful buildings is the Edificio La Reconquista with Art Deco elements, designed by architect Enrique Nieto.

Melilla is full of Art Deco buildings, including Edificio La Reconquista by Enrique Nieto. Source: iStock

The Spanish city of Melilla is also known for its sandy beaches along the coast. Thanks to its mild climate, you can sail, kayak, or dive year-round. You can also stroll along the attractive Paseo Marítimo, perfect for enjoying sunset views and local life. Nearby is the modern Puerto Deportivo Noray marina, surrounded by restaurants and bars where you can dine or enjoy a drink by the sound of the waves.

Walk along the Paseo Marítimo promenade leading to Puerto Deportivo Noray marina in Melilla. Source: iStock

How to get to Melilla from Spain?

If you decide to visit Melilla from Spain, you can fly to Málaga and continue your journey by direct ferry. The ferry from Malaga to Melilla runs almost every day throughout the year, and the journey takes 6 hours. A one-way ticket costs around €54. Cabins are available on board, and you can also transport a vehicle. This route is operated by the Spanish company Baleària.

There is also a direct ferry from Almería to Melilla. This journey is slightly longer, taking around 7 hours. The one-way ticket price is around €55. This is a night ferry operated by Naviera Armas. This route does not operate daily year-round, so it is best to check availability via the Ferryscanner app.

Sail to the most beautiful Spanish cities with Ferryscanner

It’s easy to book a ferry to Ceuta or Melilla, the only two Spanish cities on the African mainland. Discover their unique history, culture, and diverse architecture. Buy your ferry tickets at the best price with Ferryscanner. With us, you can combine different operators, compare prices, and always have your tickets at hand on our mobile app!