When you hear about must-see destinations in Spain, the first ones that come to mind are Barcelona, Madrid, Seville and Granada. But there's more to Spain than the classics.
There are lesser-known cities that hold unique treasures. And one of them has been named the most underrated city in Spain by Viajar magazine. We're talking about Melilla, and if you keep reading, you'll see why. Here are plenty of reasons why Melilla should be put on discerning travellers' radars.
Modernism and Art Deco on every corner
Few realise that Melilla holds one of the largest collections of Modernist architecture in Spain, second only to Barcelona. Its Ensanche district is home to more than two hundred listed buildings – a testament to an architectural splendour that has turned its streets into a living exhibition of art and elegance.
Enrique Nieto, a disciple of Gaudí, was responsible for much of this remarkable legacy. His flowing façades, wrought-iron balconies and floral motifs lend the city a truly distinctive charm. Strolling along its avenues feels like leafing through a three-dimensional art book.
Melilla La Vieja: living history within its walls
The old town, with its walls, moats, cisterns, fortifications and an urban layout that invites unhurried exploration, tells a story of frontiers, defence and the coexistence of cultures. Here, traces of Phoenician, Roman, Arab and Christian civilisations intertwine.
Among its treasures are the La Concepción church, Torre de la Vela watchtower and the ancient aljibe cisterns. Every corner seems to preserve the spirit of a city that once stood as a borderland, a fortress and a crossroads of civilisations.
A multicultural city
The city is a small universe where, within a population of just 90,000, four major religious and cultural traditions coexist: Christian, Muslim, Jewish and Hindu. Their temples stand only metres apart – a living symbol of harmony that infuses its streets, flavours its cuisine and shapes everyday life.
A good, beautiful and affordable destination
Beyond its rich heritage, visiting Melilla is both affordable and comfortable, whether you’re travelling or settling there. Tourist passes for non-residents considerably reduce transport and accommodation costs, and the city enjoys air and sea links with several destinations on the Spanish mainland. Far from the crowds of mass tourism, Melilla has a relaxed rhythm, with sunlit squares, inviting cafés and a warmth that makes every visitor feel at home.
What to see and do in Spain's most underrated city?
If you decide to visit this beautiful city, you can't miss:
- Taking a stroll through the Ensanche Modernista, especially the well-known Golden Triangle, where you can admire architectural gems such as La Reconquista, the House of Crystals, the Assembly Palace or the Chamber of Commerce.
- Exploring Melilla La Vieja and discovering its fortifications, moats, walls and the Church of the Conception, as well as enjoying the spectacular sea views.
- Following cultural trails that include visits to temples of different faiths, a way to experience the city's multicultural richness up close.
- Enjoying the contrast between the old and the new in its cafés, terraces and parks – such as Hernández Park – as well as in its wide avenues, promenades and gardens that reflect the urban planning of the 20th century.