Europe : Mediterranean Europe : Iberia : Spain : Ceuta

Ceuta

Ceuta [1] had several sovereigns before the Portuguese in 1415 took control of this city east of Tangiers. Since 1580 it is under Spanish administration but holds the status as an autonomous city. The city is located on the African continent.

This exclave was in the spotlight in 2005 together with Melilla because hundreds of people were trying to climb above the border fence. Ceuta being part of Spain and therefore a safe heaven for Africans made it a prime target for migrants. Today the border is heavily protected by the Guarda Civil. The European Union invested a lot of money to make illegal immigration more difficult.

Travel to Ceuta, visa requirements

Ceuta is easily accessible from Cadiz or Algeciras by ferry.

From land Ceuta is only accessible from Morocco.

The increased border security may result in minor waiting time. This could be longer if you travel in summer when the main holiday season in Spain and France starts and lots of families return to their homes in Morocco. You will definitely need your passport and carry it with out. Rules for immigration are the same as for Spain.

There is just an heliport where Heli sur Este operates to daily connections between Ceuta and Malaga.

Get around

Ceuta is a tiny city. Best way is by bike or on foot. There are taxis available. Make sure they use the meter or negotiate a price before you get in.

Ceuta attractions and sightseeing

City tours

Shopping, Ceuta souvenirs

Ceuta is a free port, this means there are few or no taxes on goods. You will see that the economy of this city focus on people transiting to/from Morocco and one-day shopping tourists.