A layover in Melilla is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Melilla Airport sits just 30 minutes from the city center by Urban Bus Line 3, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into Melilla, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Spain vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Melilla is roughly 30 minutes from MLN via Urban Bus Line 3. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Get Into Melilla
From MLN, the Urban Bus Line 3 gets you to Melilla in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Urban Bus Line 3 offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Melilla:
Transport to the city and back runs about $9 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $17 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $36 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Melilla.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Melilla, here are two things worth checking out:
Melilla La Vieja (The Fortress) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. You can see the main features in a short visit.
Modernist Architecture Route is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside MLN, you can spend time at Relax in the Terminal Waiting Area or try Airport Shop (Souvenirs & Essentials). Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Melilla Layover
- In the city: Restaurante La Pérgola and Restaurante Warari are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Melilla.
- At the airport: CafeterÃa Melilla Aeropuerto and Quick Bites & Snacks Counter will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Bag Storage Near MLN
Dedicated luggage storage at MLN may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Melilla’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and MLN is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Melilla and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Taking a Break at MLN
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at MLN.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Melilla count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave MLN. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.