gibraltar tourist spot

14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Gibraltar

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Long famous as the "key to the Mediterranean," Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory. Overlooking one of the world's busiest shipping lanes, the "Rock of Gibraltar," as it's still often known, rises out of the sea on the east side of Algeciras Bay and is linked to mainland Spain by a narrow isthmus.

The town of Gibraltar itself lies on the west side of the Rock. For such a small country — it only covers an area of four square kilometers — Gibraltar certainly has more than its fair share of tourist attractions and famous sights.

Plan your sightseeing adventures with our list of the best attractions and top things to do in Gibraltar.

Head to Europa Point

See the apes of gibraltar, visit the upper rock nature reserve, ride the gibraltar cable car, see the views from o'hara's battery atop the rock of gibraltar, the mediterranean steps, dolphin watching, st. michael's cave, gibraltar skywalk & windsor suspension bridge, the moorish castle, main street and casemates square, the gibraltar national museum, the great siege tunnels, the alameda: gibraltar botanic gardens, where to stay in gibraltar for sightseeing, gibraltar - climate chart.

At the most southerly point of Gibraltar's peninsula is Europa Point. It's well worth a visit for the historic 19th-century Trinity Lighthouse, the old chapel of Nuestra Señora de Europa (the Shrine of our Lady of Europe), and the impressive Mosque of The Custodian of the Holy Mosques .

The subject of a great deal of redevelopment in recent years, the area is also where you'll find the impressive Harding Battery , a restored fortification built in 1859. It's also home to the Nun's Well , an ancient underground water reservoir.

More recently added attractions include the island's only cricket ground and the Sikorski Memorial , a monument to one of Poland's leading generals of WWII, who died here in a plane crash in 1943. You'll also be rewarded with excellent views across Algeciras Bay and the African coast.

Gibraltar is famous for its Barbary macaques, a species native to Morocco and the only monkeys living wild anywhere in Europe. Legend has it that if the apes ever leave Gibraltar, so too will the British. But with more than 160 of the animals thriving on the island, this eventuality seems remote.

The best place to see them is in the Upper Rock Nature Reserve in the Upper Rock area of the island. Here, you'll find the famous Apes' Den, a great place to visit for you to get up close with these fascinating creatures without fear of being harassed. But visitors beware: as cute as these apes are, they're wild and do bite. Also, from time-to-time they venture into the town, so watch your belongings. Feeding is strictly prohibited.

A great way to ensure you get to see the monkeys, as well as the colony's top tourist attractions, is to join a Gibraltar Rock Tour . Setting off from the town center and accompanied by a professional tour guide, you'll be transported to see the monkeys at the famous Ape's Den area, as well as take in spectacular St. Michael's Cave, the tunnels used by the British army during WWII, as well as Europa Point.

Not only does the Upper Rock Nature Reserve offer great views, it's also a good place to see some of the millions of birds that stop over while migrating between Africa and Europe. Encompassing more than 40 percent of the island, the reserve includes many of Gibraltar's most important attractions, including St. Michael's Cave , as well as Forbes' Quarry , where one of the world's first female Neanderthal skulls was found in 1848.

In addition to its unique flora and fauna, the reserve holds numerous reminders of the island's military importance, including a 100-ton gun at Magdala Battery, as well as informative displays relating to the island's history in the Heritage Centre at Princess Caroline's Battery.

Pretty much everything that can be enjoyed at the Upper Rock area - the nature reserve, the monkeys, and the amazing views - can be accessed via the Gibraltar Cable Car. This spectacular aerial tramway was constructed in 1966, and is capable of carrying groups of up to 30 passengers at a time up the 412 meters to the "Top of the Rock."

It's a breathtaking journey, and even though it only takes six minutes, offers some of the best views you're ever likely to experience of the Mediterranean as you make your ascent. An interesting audio guide provides details of the top sights along the way.

From the upper station, you can access many of the top attractions included on this list, as well as enjoy a delightful café and terraces offering superb views over the Mediterranean all the way to Morocco. When you're done, either ride the cable car back down or, if you're feeling adventurous, take the famous Mediterranean steps back down to the town.

Address: Red Sands Road, Gibraltar

Gibraltar's highest point is some 425 meters tall, and is well worth exploring. The very top of the Rock of Gibraltar is accessed from the Gibraltar Cable Car, providing a vantage point with unparalleled views.

O'Hara's Battery, named for Charles O'Hara, who served as governor of Gibraltar from 1795 to 1802, was originally constructed during his term as a lookout point for watching ships' movements through the Strait of Gibraltar . Unfortunately, O'Hara's vision did not work as well as planned, and the site soon gained the nickname "O'Hara's Folly."

The original tower was destroyed in 1888 and replaced by the current structure, which houses a cannon that was actively used during World War II.

The site is on the grounds of the Upper Rock Nature Reserve in the Upper Battery, which is also home to Spur Battery and Lord Airey's Battery . Visitors can see the cannon, magazine, and engine room, as well as enjoy views of the Mediterranean, the strait, and the city below.

For the fit and adventurous, access to Gibraltar's Highest Point can also be achieved on foot. While it's a hard slog up the wonderful Mediterranean Steps - a steep staircase built by the British army in the 18th century that literally takes you from the top to the bottom of the island - it's not without its rewards.

The hour-long climb (accounting for rest stops) takes in some of the best views from the south end of the Rock, and gradually winds its way up to O'Hara's battery. Along the way, you'll enjoy many opportunities to stop, catch your breath, and enjoy Gibraltar's diverse flora and fauna. There are also numerous other trails that can easily be accessed via the steps that are worth exploring, too.

And if you don't fancy the climb up, well, you can, of course, always tackle the steps in reverse.

If you're interested in seeing marine animals up close, consider joining an exciting dolphin watching excursion . These highly rated tours are undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Gibraltar for families, and are suitable for kids of all ages.

Lasting approximately 75 minutes, these marine wildlife adventures include an exciting ride on a specially made viewing vessel designed to cruise alongside pods of up to 200 dolphins as they swim in the Strait of Gibraltar.

It's a truly breathtaking sight, especially with the backdrop provided by the 'Rock' itself, as well as the great views over Morocco and the Spanish coastline. Although the trips run throughout the day from Marina Bay, be sure to book ahead of time to secure your spot.

No visit to Gibraltar would be complete without paying a visit to the stunning St. Michael's Cave. The largest of the island's more than 150 caves, St. Michael's Cave lies at least 274 meters above sea level and is crammed full of spectacular stalactites and stalagmites.

First recorded in 45 CE, and known to have sheltered Neanderthals more than 40,000 years ago, the cave has many legends associated with it, including one suggesting the island is secretly connected to Africa via a 24-kilometer-long tunnel.

The reality, however, is equally impressive. The largest area of the cave, the Upper Hall, is connected via five passages to a smaller hall where you'll see spectacular drops of between 12 and 45 meters. A number of smaller chambers, some reaching depths of 76 meters, are accessible via a series of small holes.

During excavation work in WWII, the Lower St. Michael's Cave was discovered, containing many more equally breathtaking chambers, as well as a small underground lake.

For a truly unforgettable experience, take in a concert in the fabulous Cathedral Cave , a natural underground concert hall seating 400 people for performances of music, ballet, and drama. A variety of tour options are available, and the caves can even be used to host weddings.

Address: Spur Battery Rd, GX11 1AA, Gibraltar

A relatively new attraction (it was only completed in 2018), the Skywalk is already one of the top things to do when visiting the Gibraltar Nature Reserve.

Perched 340 meters above the Mediterranean, the Skywalk is an incredible experience (unless you're afraid of heights) as the cliff falls away from under your feet to the shoreline far below. If you can overcome your fear of heights, the vistas are simply stunning as you're able to enjoy uninterrupted views in all directions.

From here, you're also able to enjoy the equally spectacular (and also very new) Windsor Suspension Bridge, connected by a series of fun walking trails. Stretching 71 meters over a spectacular 50-meter gorge, the views over the Straits of Gibraltar are breathtaking.

A visit to either site (admission is included with the Gibraltar Nature Reserve) is especially memorable at sunset.

Perched high above the old town of Gibraltar and overlooking Casemates Square, the medieval Moorish Castle is certainly an imposing sight.

Originally built in the eighth century and rebuilt in the 14th century, much of the castle has been destroyed over time, although the parts that do remain — including the tall Tower of Homage, a massive gatehouse, and a few fragments of masonry — certainly suggest the building's former glory. In places, battle scars from the island's many sieges can still be seen.

The Tower of Homage is in fact the highest such Islamic structure left standing in the Iberian Peninsula, while the walled Kasbah, where local dignitaries would reside, is one of the largest in the area.

Address: 5 Moorish Castle Estate, Gibraltar GX11 1AA, Gibraltar

Located at the northern end of Main Street, Casemates Square is the largest public space in the old city center and is a popular gathering place due to its numerous restaurants, cafés, and shops. Although completed in 1817, evidence of settlements dating back to the Moors of the 10th century has been found.

While for centuries it served as a place of trade (and also execution), these days the square is where you'll find numerous cultural events and fun things to do, including open-air concerts, National Day celebrations, and the increasingly popular Calentita Food Festival.

Other landmarks along Main Street include the Roman Catholic Cathedral of St. Mary the Crowned, a former mosque rebuilt in Gothic style in 1502. In Cathedral Square stands the Moorish-style Anglican Cathedral (1821), while near the south end of Main Street is the Governor's Residence, originally a Franciscan convent built in 1531.

Also worth a visit, if time allows, is the attractive fishing village of Catalan Bay . It's located on the east shore, just a few minutes' drive from the town center.

With a focus on the cultural and natural history of Gibraltar, including the Strait of Gibraltar, the Gibraltar National Museum was established in 1930 and is located in Bomb House on Bomb Lane, the former residence of the Principal Artillery Officer. Highlights of this excellent (though small) museum are the well-preserved 14th-century Moorish Baths, and the huge model of the Rock as it would have looked in 1865.

Other galleries deal with the island's geological origins from the Jurassic Period to the present day, a collection of rare Roman anchors, and an exhibit detailing the Great Siege of Gibraltar from 1779-1783. Guided tours are available.

Address: 18, 20 Bomb House Ln, Gibraltar GX11 1AA, Gibraltar

Official site: www.gibmuseum.gi

Perhaps the most significant military installation in the Mediterranean, the Great Siege Tunnels of Gibraltar are an engineering marvel. Carved out of the sheer face of the "Notch," the northern face of the Rock, using nothing but manual labor, this labyrinth of tunnels was built by the British in just six weeks as a defense against a combined force from France and Spain when they tried to recapture the Rock from the British.

The 14th of many sieges the island has endured over the centuries, the Great Siege lasted from 1779 to 1783 and, thanks to the tunnels, resulted in Britain's victory in what would, without the cannons that were able to be mounted here, have undoubtedly ended in defeat. Some of these canons are on display.

Additional tunnels were added in WWII, bringing the total length of the tunnel network to an impressive 51 kilometers. Admission to the siege tunnels is included with entrance to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, and guided tours of both sets of tunnels are available.

The beautiful Gibraltar Botanic Gardens - also known as La Alameda Gardens - is a great place to spend time away from the often-busy attractions elsewhere on the island. Located at the end of Main Street near the Southport Gates, this public garden, with its luxuriant subtropical vegetation, was commissioned in 1816 for the enjoyment of soldiers stationed here.

Visitors can also take in the Alameda Wildlife Conservation Park , a small zoo set up to house animals rescued by customs or police that can't be returned to the wild, as well as an open-air theater hosting many excellent cultural and musical events. Fun guided tours are available once a month, if you can catch one.

Address: Red Sands Road, Gibraltar GX11 1AA, Gibraltar

Official site: http://gibraltargardens.gi/

Luxury Hotels :

For a truly elegant stay, book into the spectacular Sunborn Gibraltar , a luxury super-yacht hotel boasting sleek décor, marble bathrooms, an outdoor pool, and a full-service spa.
Other good high-end options include the Rock Hotel Gibraltar , popular for its lovely hilltop location and sea views from its rooms and wisteria-draped terrace, seasonal outdoor pool, and friendly staff, and the Eliott Hotel , featuring a rooftop pool, regular jazz nights, and an on-site restaurant.

Mid-Range Hotels :

The Holiday Inn Express Gibraltar is another good mid-range priced option. It's located close to the airport and features bright décor in its rooms (each with an ensuite), plus free breakfasts and parking.
For a unique experience, stay aboard the Con Dios , a moderately- priced B&B boat with friendly hosts, a delightful sun deck, a shared kitchen, and on-board bathrooms. The boat is located right in the marina near several restaurants and convenient to the ferry and sightseeing boats.

Budget Hotels :

The Cannon Hotel is a no-frills budget hotel located in the heart of town, offering free Wi-Fi and breakfast.
The Jasmine Coral Jay Boutique Boatel is a good budget option for tourists who want to stay right on the water at the marina, offering small but affordable rooms with basic amenities.

Although small, Gibraltar is home to many fascinating attractions. From the 56km (35mi) of tunnels that weave through its Rock and its famous Barbary apes, to a quirky old town and the dolphins that swim in its waters, here are the top 20 things to see and do in Gibraltar.

One of the unique experiences to be enjoyed in Gibraltar is visiting its famous Barbary macaques – the only wild monkeys living in Europe. Most of the 230-odd strong population live at the top of the 400m (1,312ft) Rock and can be reached by cable car, but these cheeky and curious residents have been seen all over the upper parts of the territory and occasionally even in hotel rooms. Though they are harmless, it’s recommended that you keep important possessions close to you, as some of them are expert pickpockets. It is said that when the macaques die out or migrate elsewhere, Britain will lose control of this intriguing territory.

Great Siege Tunnels

Historical Landmark

Gibraltar Museum

One of the most curious, even surreal, parts of Gibraltar is its old town, which occupies the northwestern corner of the territory and is only a 15-minute walk from the airport. A network of narrow lanes surrounding the central thoroughfare of Main Street, it is a slice of England in the sun: high-street stores such as Debenhams and traditional British pubs tell you that you’re in the UK, yet the curious blend of architecture and the spotless blue skies remind you that you that you’re in the Mediterranean. Casemates Square is the neighbourhood’s principal outside space and has plenty of sunny terraces on which to enjoy a pint or a meal.

The Convent

Become a Culture Tripper!

See privacy policy .

Natural Feature

Europa Point

Ocean Village

Shopping Mall

Second World War Tunnels

The largest section of the Rock of Gibraltar’s underground tunnels was built during World War II, when a further 13km (18mi) were added to the existing seven (the latter of which were excavated during the 1779-83 Great Siege of Gibraltar). Their main purpose was to house a 16,000-strong garrison and all of its supplies, and to connect a new military headquarters at the territory’s southeast corner with those on the western side. In addition, workers from the Royal Engineers and Canadian Army carved out two main subterranean thoroughfares – Fosse Way and the Great North Road – which run almost the entire length of the Rock.

St Michael's Cave

Gibraltar's Nature Reserve

Natural Feature, Zoo, Park

Mediterranean Steps

If the cable car isn’t running to the top of the Rock because of high winds, and if you’re feeling fit, you can walk almost to the top using the Mediterranean Steps. Originally used by the British military to access their various bases, this demanding pathway starts at the Jew’s Gate at the southern end of the Nature Reserve and climbs up a winding stone staircase. Many locals use it as a means of getting super-fit, and time their ascents. Although walkers with an aversion to heights might find some sections a little hairy, from the viewing platform at the top the north coast of Africa is clearly visible across the Straits. Allow a good two hours for ascending and descending.

Holy Trinity Cathedral

Building, Cathedral, Church

Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, Gibraltar, Europe

Cathedral St Mary the Crowned

Cathedral, Church, Mosque

Cathedral church of St. Mary the Crowned, Gibraltar, British overseas territory in southern Europe

Architectural Landmark

Tower of Homage

The Gatehouse

As its name suggests, this mighty structure was once one of the Moorish castle’s principal entrances. From its turrets you can take in some jaw-dropping views of three countries and two continents – a perspective that enables you to fully understand why this fortress was so impregnable during Gibraltar’s two Moorish epochs. The grounds of the castle it protected once extended all the way down the hillside to what is now Casemates Square in the old town, meaning they would have rivalled the gardens of Granada’s great Alhambra in size.

The waters off Gibraltar – particularly in the Bay of Algeciras – are rich with marine wildlife, including whales, blue-fin tuna and a large population of dolphins. One of the most moving sights afforded by a trip here is seeing the dolphins cruising and leaping through the clear blue waters, often with their young by their sides, as the sun sets over the Bay of Algeciras (a time when they are particularly active). They have been known to jump straight over the bows of smaller boats, giving visitors some wonderful photo opportunities. Regular tours are run by Dolphin Adventure and Dolphin Safari.

Windsor Suspension Bridge

Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque

The Best Hotels in Gibraltar

Culture Trip Summer Sale

Save up to $1,200 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.

Post ID: 1524650
Sponsored? No
View Payload

Must-see attractions in Gibraltar

Gibraltar Museum

Gibraltar's swashbuckling history unfolds in this fine museum, which comprises a labyrinth of rooms and exhibits ranging from prehistoric and Phoenician…

Upper Rock Nature Reserve

The Rock is one of the most dramatic landforms in southern Europe. Most of its upper sections fall within the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. Tickets include…

Trafalgar Cemetery

Gibraltar’s cemetery gives a poignant history lesson, with its graves of British sailors who perished in the town after the 1805 Battle of Trafalgar, and…

Apes' Den

The Rock's most famous inhabitants are its 160 tailless Barbary macaques. Many hang around the Apes' Den near the middle cable-car station, as well as at…

St Michael’s Cave

About 25 minutes' walk south down St Michael's Rd from the top cable-car station (or up from the Apes' Den), this natural grotto is crammed with…

O’Hara’s Battery

About a 1km (15-minute) walk south down St Michael’s Rd from the top cable-car station, O’Hara’s Rd leads up to the left to O’Hara’s Battery, an…

Gorham's Cave Complex

Inscribed on Unesco's World Heritage list in 2016, these four archaeologically rich cliffside caves on Gibraltar's southeastern coast were inhabited by…

Nelson’s Anchorage

At the southwestern end of town, Nelson's Anchorage pinpoints the site where Nelson's body was brought ashore from the HMS Victory after the Battle of…

Great Siege Tunnels

Accessed at the northern end of the Rock, the Great Siege Tunnels were gun emplacements hewn by hand by the British during the 1779–83 siege. They…

WWII Tunnels

The tunnels where the Allied invasion of North Africa was planned can be visited on 40-minute tours with advance booking only; they aren't included in…

Alameda Botanic Gardens

Take a break from Gibraltar’s manic traffic amid these lush gardens of bougainvillea, drago trees and more, scene of Molly Bloom’s famous sexual exploits…

Moorish Castle

On Willis’ Rd, the way down to town from the northern end of the Rock, you’ll find the remains of Gibraltar's Moorish fortress, rebuilt in 1333 after…

Windsor Suspension Bridge

The spine-tingling, 71m-long Windsor Suspension Bridge spans a 50m-tall gorge within the Upper Rock Nature Reserve.

This glass-floor top-of-the-rock Skywalk sits within the Upper Rock Nature Reserve.

Ibrahim-Al-Ibrahim Mosque

Mainland Europe's southernmost mosque is a symbol of the racial and religious symbiosis of Gibraltar's past and, to some degree, its present. Opened in…

Europa Point

Gibraltar's southernmost tip, at the end of Europa Rd, hosts a mosque, a Catholic church, a 19th-century lighthouse, the restored 1878 Harding's Battery…

Military Heritage Centre

A 1.5km (30-minute) walk north (downhill) from the top cable-car station is the 1732 Princess Caroline’s Battery, housing the Military Heritage Centre.

Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned

With its origins in the 15th century, on the site of an earlier mosque, Gibraltar's Roman Catholic cathedral lies behind a dusty-pink facade. The tile…

Cathedral of the Holy Trinity

Completed in the 1830s, with neo-Islamic touches including striped horseshoe arches inside and out, this cathedral was originally used as a hospital to…

More destinations you need to see

View of Manarola. Manarola is a small town in the province of La Spezia, Liguria, northern Italy.

The Best Things to Do in Gibraltar (Itinerary Included)

Pinterest pin that reads the ultimate guide for visiting gibraltar.

If you’re planning to visit Gibraltar for a day or a short weekend, I’ve got you covered.

Gibraltar is a unique destination in many ways – its interesting language, rich culture, and outstanding location.

I had always heard that there weren’t many things to do in Gibraltar besides finding cheaper-priced goods compared to Spain. However, I can disagree more about this because, despite its size, Gibraltar has many different things to offer.

This travel guide includes essential information about travelling to Gibraltar as well as the best things to do in Gibraltar, with a suggested three-day itinerary and day trips.

Pinterest pin that reads the ultimate guide to Gibraltar.

This post contains affiliate links, and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you click through and purchase something, I receive a small commission on the price at no extra cost to you. This helps me keep the content up to date and make other improvements to the blog.

Table of Contents

The Ultimate Guide to Things to Do in Gibraltar

How to get to gibraltar.

Gibraltar has its own airport (GIB). However, it’s very small, and you can even see the planes flying over your head when you walk to Gibraltar from the border.

Gibraltar Airport only has flights from and to main destinations in the UK , such as London and Manchester. Therefore, you’ll probably have to fly to a bigger airport close to Gibraltar.

These are the most convenient airports near Gibraltar:

Tetouan/Sania Ramel (TTU) – 97 km
Jerez Airport (XRY / LEJR) – 121 km
Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport (TNG / GMTT) – 126 km
Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP / LEMG) – 126 km

✈️ Check out cheap flights to Gibraltar here

Driving to Gibraltar from destinations such as Malaga and Costa del Sol, Cadiz, and Sevilla isn’t difficult.

If you’re driving to Gibraltar from Spain, take the N340 or the A7 towards La Linea (be aware that there are some tolls, so make sure to take the right road if you don’t want to pay toll).

La Linea is the town between Spain and Gibraltar, and the frontier is a few minutes’ walk from La Linea Bus Station.

🚗 Book your rental car with Discover Cars here

How to get to Gibraltar From Cadiz

The bus journey from Cadiz to Gibraltar is about 95 kilometres, so it takes an average of 2 hours and 45 minutes.

There are 2 direct buses a day, and you can find bus tickets for €15.

How to get to Gibraltar from Malaga

Buses from Málaga to La Linea take about 2 hours and 25 minutes. As the bus leaves you at La Linea, you’ll have to walk a few minutes to reach the Gibraltar frontier. It’s very straightforward and affordable (€12). However, it only runs once a day.

How to get to Gibraltar from Marbella

Avanza buses take you to Gibraltar from Marbella in only 1 hour and 15 minutes for 8 euros.

Book a tour

Alternatively, if you’re planning to visit Gibraltar in one day , you can book a day trip with Get Your Guide .

I personally recommend this day trip to Gibraltar from Costa del Sol . Our guide was very helpful and told us very interesting things about Gibraltar during our coach trip. Then he gave us the option to do some extra activities or wander around on our own.

I love exploring places at my pace, so if you’re the same, I’m sure you will enjoy this day trip.

Things to do in Gibraltar

1. go on gibraltar cable car.

Sea and Spain views from Gibraltar cable car.

Taking the Gibraltar Cable Car is the best way to access Top of the Rock and Upper Nature Reserve.

But if you’re wondering if you can walk to reach these two places, the answer is yes. However, you’ll spend a lot of your time walking when it isn’t necessary.

My recommendation is to buy a one-way ticket and walk down so you get both experiences.

Gibraltar Cable Car takes about 7 minutes, and you’ll enjoy beautiful views of the city during that time.

Something to be aware of is the tour guides outside the ticket office that sell a driving tour through the Upper Nature Reserve.

They’ll charge you more money, and you don’t have the opportunity to spend as much time in St Michael’s Cave or walk through Windsor Suspension Bridge and the Skywalk.

If you don’t want to spend much time in a mini truck with many other people, avoid this.

2. Explore the Top of the Rock and Upper Nature Reserve

Top of gibraltar, one of the best things to do in gibraltar.

Two unmissable places to visit in Gibraltar are the Upper Nature Reserve and Top of the Rock. These incredible spots must be on your list because from there you can discover and learn many things while enjoying the best views in Gibraltar.

Here are all the places you can visit in the Upper Nature Reserve:

The Skywalk offers 360-degree breathtaking views of three different countries: Gibraltar, Spain, and Africa.

Walking through it is an experience as the path is made of laminated glass, so you get a view of what’s below you.

But you don’t need to worry about the safety of this path as it was built with strong foundations during World War II, and it can carry the weight of up to 340 people.

If you love getting the best views everywhere you go, you can’t miss out on crossing the Skywalk!

St Michael’s Cave

St Michaels Cave consists of a beautiful network of caves made of limestone.

There are many stories behind this cave, such as the Rock being linked to Africa by a subterranean passage under the Strait of Gibraltar and the monkeys coming to the country through this subterranean passage.

However, the cave is now open to visitors and offers a unique auditorium for concerts, ballet, and drama.

The most impressive part of this cave is the polished stalagmite that broke and fell many years ago. Interestingly, you can see the same type of stalagmite in the famous Caves of Nerja in Costa del Sol.

Don’t miss ‘The Awakening’ during your visit, the light and sound show that takes place every 20 minutes.

Windsor Suspension Bridge

Crossing this 70-metre-long suspension bridge is another activity to add to your Upper Nature Reserve visit.

Although you can feel a bit of a wobble or movement, crossing the bridge is totally safe, and it’s a fun experience.

As you walk through it, you can also enjoy the views of the deep gorge and Gibraltar’s Bay.

Mediterranean Steps

Mediterranean Steps is one of the hikes you can do in Gibraltar, and it’ll keep you fit.

Hike to the highest point of Top of the Rock while you explore nature and see impressive views.

Like many of Gibraltar’s’ attractions, Mediterranean Steps were created as part of a communication system for soldiers to allow access to different defence posts. Another defence post that is worth visiting is O’Hara’s Battery.

You can’t go to Gibraltar without visiting the Apes’ Den at Gibraltar Cable Car Middle station. Despite its name, don’t expect a den or a cave. It’s simply an open space where you often find plenty of Barbary macaques, informally called monkeys.

There are over 300 monkeys living at the top of the Rock and the Upper Nature Reserve! So be prepared to see them everywhere, not only in this spot.

These monkeys are generally friendly to the point that some tourists take pictures with them. However, be aware they’re still wild animals and can scratch or bite you if they feel in danger or upset.

I wouldn’t recommend taking a backpack with you because they can easily take it from you. My partner’s backpack was almost stolen, and I got very scared.

Also, take care of your phone while walking close to the monkeys (yes, they’ll steal it), and don’t feed them either. You can get an expensive fine if you feed the monkeys.

🔍 Interesting fact : Gibraltar is the only country in Europe where this type of wild monkey population lives. They’re originally from Africa, and how the monkeys arrived in Gibraltar is unknown.

Some legends suggest that Churchill commanded bringing monkeys to Gibraltar. For him, the monkeys on Top of the Rock were a symbol of Britishness, and as long as there were monkeys in Gibraltar, Gibraltar would belong to the United Kingdom.

Moorish Castle

Another attraction in Gibraltar is the Moorish Castle, a medieval fortification that dates back to 1309 or even earlier.

Some parts of this castle were destroyed when the Spanish re-conquered Gibraltar. Nowadays, you can visit the Tower of Homage which is still present after a few reconstructions.

Great Siege Tunnels

If you love history, you can’t miss the Great Siege Tunnels located in the Upper Nature Reserve close to the Rock of Gibraltar.

This interesting place consists of a labyrinth of tunnels that were used as a defence system, but not a simple one as the total construction length of the tunnels by the end of 1783 was 277 metres.

My top tip is to make sure you wear suitable footwear before going to Top of the Rock and the Upper Nature Reserve. This area is very hilly, and wearing uncomfortable shoes worsens your experience. I have learned this lesson before!

3. Contemplate the Sacred Heart Church

A photo of the Sacred Heart Church in Gibraltar.

A hidden gem in Gibraltar is the Sacred Heart Church located in the upper part of the old town.

This Gothic church from 1878 has beautiful architecture that can be seen on its facade. The church can even remind you of Notre Dame in Paris.

Although it wasn’t open when I visited it, it seems like the interior is just as beautiful as the exterior of this church.

4. Spend the day at Catalan Bay

On the eastern side of Top of the Rock is Catalan Bay, also known as “La Caleta” in Spanish.

It’s a colourful and vibrant fishing village that is worth visiting. Here you can visit the Church of Our Lady of Sorrows, do water sports, or simply relax at this beautiful sandy beach.

A popular sports activity to do in Gibraltar is coasteering. If you’ve never heard of this before, it consists of a combination of outdoor activities like zipline, climbing, jumping, and swimming that are practised on the coastline along steep cliffs and rocky outcrops.

Spending the day at Catalan Bay is definitely one of the best things to do in Gibraltar!

5. Wander Gibraltar Main Street

A photo of Gibraltar's Main Street, home to restaurants.

If you love shopping, then wandering around Main Street is the perfect option for you. There are plenty of well-known British shops like Next and Mark & Spencer, but you can also find independent shops where you can get a souvenir gift from Gibraltar.

Even if you aren’t a shopaholic, it’s worth checking these shops as you’ll come across cheaper products than in Spain or other countries.

The reason behind this is that you don’t pay VAT on many products (i.e. electronic goods, cigarettes, and alcohol, and these are cheaper than in Spain), so shopping in Gibraltar is always a good option.

When it comes to finding the best restaurants in Gibraltar, this is the area you also want to be in.

6. Take a photo at Devils Gap Road

One of the great things to see in Gibraltar is Devils Gap Road, which is located near Sacred Heart Church.

This historical place is very picturesque as the steps have been painted with the Union Flag ever since Gibraltar’s first sovereignty referendum.

7. Visit the Alameda Botanic Gardens

A road near the Alameda Botanic Garden in Gibraltar.

One of the free things to do in Gibraltar is to visit the Alameda Botanic Gardens.

The garden is surrounded by beautiful plants from the Mediterranean and arid habitats – from interesting cacti to bright bougainvillaea flowers.

You will find not only beautiful flora but also beautiful fauna. You can see birds migrating over and within the gardens, lizards enjoying the sun and frogs jumping in the ponds.

If you’re interested in learning more about the garden, you can also book a tour guide.

8. Go to Ibrahim-Al-Ibrahim Mosque

View of Ibrahim-Al-Ibrahim Mosque in Gibraltar.

This mosque, also known as the Mosque of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, is located at Europa Point.

Its outstanding Moorish architecture is worth contemplating. Initially, this mosque was paid for by the former King Fahad Abdul Aziz of Saudi Arabia and represents the Muslim population of Gibraltar.

Apparently, you can see the mosque from miles away when it lights up at night!

Day trips from Gibraltar

A photo of Tarifa beach on a sunny day and a sign that reads Oceano Atlantico, Tarifa.

At only 48 minutes from Gibraltar, Tarifa is the nearest day trip you can go on.

There are many reasons to visit Tarifa – it’s close to outstanding ruins, sandy beaches, and a charming atmosphere. But if you love surfing, then this is a paradise for you.

You can visit many beautiful churches such as San Mateo, San Francisco, and Santa María, wander the old town and eat delicious tapas.

However, if you’re all about history and architecture, you must visit Baelo Claudia, located 20 minutes from Tarifa. This is a well-preserved Roman town by the sea where you can contemplate architectural remains.

A beautiful street with flowers in the historic centre of Marbella, Southern Spain.

The journey from Gibraltar to Marbella takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes, and it’s the perfect day trip for those who are looking to sightsee or relax at the beach.

One of the main highlights of Marbella is its beautiful Old Town , known for its whitewashed buildings, narrow alleys and vibrance. Inside the Old Town, you can see the remains of Marbella Castle, visit La Encarnación church and have tapas in Plaza de Los Naranjos.

Other incredible things you can do in Marbella are wandering around Puerto Banus or spending half a day at Marbella’s best beaches like Cabopino.

Tanger-Med – Gibraltar ferry crossing is about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Visiting Tangier is a great way to discover the Moroccan culture.

There are so many things to do in Tangier; you have plenty of activities to choose from.

However, there is no visit to Tangier without wandering the Medina which consists of a labyrinth of alleys with market stalls, shops, and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to get a souvenir gift or traditional Moroccan food.

You’ll love the vibrant colours and lively atmosphere in this part of the city.

Other fantastic things you can do are see the port, learn about the Cave of Hercules , visit the Kasbah Museum, or relax at the beaches.

If you don’t want to worry about planning this trip, you want to check this guided tour around the city. You’ll visit the main attractions in Tangier in 6 hours.

🔍 Good to know : If you’ve read that you can visit Morocco from Gibraltar, it is indeed possible but not as a day trip as you need to take the ferry to Tangier and then drive from Tangier to Morocco, which is approximately a 7-hour drive.

Ronda is one of the most popular day trips in Southern Spain. This town, located in the province of Malaga, offers incredible scenery and historical buildings.

The first image that comes to many people’s minds is Ronda’s famous bridge, Puente Nuevo, a must-see attraction.

Ronda is also known for being the birthplace of bullfighting. You can visit one of Spain’s oldest and most impressive bullrings.

In addition to these sights, you want to add to your list exploring the historic Arab Baths, strolling through the Old Town , and walking down into the El Tajo gorge.

The trip takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

A photo of the alcazaba de malaga historical building, spain.

1 hour and 45 minutes from Gibraltar, Malaga is a beautiful destination to visit in one day . Although it’s likely you won’t be able to do all the activities that Malaga has to offer, you can still explore many of the main attractions.

La Alcazaba is an unmissable historical building in Malaga . It consists of a fortress-palace that was built during the Muslim period in Andalusia. One of the main uses of this fortress was military due to its excellent location.

Now you can visit the patios surrounded by jasmine flowers and other beautiful trees, learn about the Muslim influence in Malaga and enjoy outstanding views of the city.

Other places to add to your itinerary are the Roman Theatre, Calle Larios, Atarazanas Market and Picasso Museum Malaga .

It’s also good to know that you can access most of the attractions for free on Sundays, and there are plenty of free things to do in Malaga, so this can be a very affordable day trip too!

Best hotels in Gibraltar

Do you want to save money on your trip to Gibraltar? Instead of staying in Gibraltar, look for accommodation in La Linea. There are cheaper options, and it’s just a walk from Gibraltar.

However, if you prefer to stay in Gibraltar, here are my recommendations:

The Eliott Hotel (4-star)

Ver esta publicación en Instagram Una publicación compartida de The Eliott Hotel (@theeliottgibraltar)

Located in the heart of Gibraltar is the perfect place to be close to Gibraltar’s main attractions.

All their rooms are beautifully decorated in a Mediterranean style, equipped with comfortable beds, complimentary Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, and a flat-screen TV. Many of their rooms, including the family room, also have private balconies.

The Eliott Hotel is for you if you’re looking for a stylish stay in Gibraltar. Not only are the rooms incredible, but their communal areas too.

I absolutely love their rooftop pool with amazing views of Gibraltar and the Rock Salt Restaurant which is next to the pool. The restaurant serves a mixture of Mediterranean dishes including Spanish tapas.

🛏️ Check out The Eliott Hotel prices and availability

Holiday Inn Express Gibraltar (3-star)

Holiday Inn Express Gibraltar is a 3-star hotel situated close to Gibraltar International Airport (GIB). If you’re from the UK, I’m sure you’ve heard about Holiday Inn Express before.

The rooms have everything you need – large beds, free Wi-Fi, a Smart flat-screen TV, and an in-room safe.

The hotel has a convenient Express Start Breakfast where you can get anything from fresh pastries to a full breakfast.

This hotel is for you if you’re looking for a cheaper option and you prefer to spend your time out and about exploring Gibraltar than have a hotel experience.

🛏️ Check out Holiday Inn Express Gibraltar prices and availability

Recommended 3 days Gibraltar itinerary

Day 1 in Gibraltar

If you only have one day in Gibraltar these are the activities you can’t miss:

Go on Gibraltar Cable Car
Explore Top of the Rock and Upper Nature Reserve
Visit Sacred Heart Church
Wander Main Street

Day 2 in Gibraltar

Take a photo at Devils Gap Road
Explore the Alameda Botanic Gardens
Go to Ibrahim-Al-Ibrahim Mosque
Spend the rest of the day at the beach

Day 3 in Gibraltar

Go on a day trip to Marbella, Ronda, Tarifa or Malaga

Frequently asked questions about visiting Gibraltar

Is gibraltar in the uk.

Gibraltar is in Southern Spain. However, it’s been a British Overseas Territory since 1830.

Is Gibraltar worth visiting?

Yes, Gibraltar is rich in culture, landscape, and history. Despite its small size, there are many places to see in Gibraltar.

From the cultural aspect, learning and seeing how multicultural Gibraltar is is very interesting. Although the official language is British English, they also have their own language “Llanito” a combination of Spanish and English.

Are there things to do in Gibraltar in winter?

Apart from swimming in the sea, you can do the same activities as visiting the Top of the Rock and Upper Nature Reserve in the summer.

The winter weather is very mild (the average high is 17ºC), so it’s pleasant to go sightseeing in Gibraltar and even better than in the summer as it gets very warm.

If it’s raining, there are some indoor activities in Gibraltar too. For example, you can visit The Gibraltar National Museum or The Great Siege Tunnels, or go to the main library or the pub.

Is Gibraltar good for families?

Absolutely! Gibraltar has plenty of activities to do with your family. Here is a list:

– Exploring Upper Nature Reserve and the Rock of Gibraltar. – Bowling at the King’s Bastion Leisure Centre. – Going on a dolphin-watching boat trip. – Visiting the Alameda Wildlife Conservation Park. – Spending the day at the beach. – Practising coasteering.

As you’ve read in this guide, there are plenty of things to see and do in Gibraltar! Would you include any other Gibraltar activities on this list?

If you have any questions about visiting Gibraltar, leave them in the comments, and I’ll be happy to help you and give you more Gibraltar travel tips.

Safe adventures,

Cristina xx

Save this travel guide on things to see in Gibraltar on Pinterest for later

Things to do before visiting Gibraltar

Check out flights with Skyscanner to find the cheapest dates.
Book accommodation with Booking.com
Have a look at unique experiences and excursions with Get Your Guide .
Rent a car to travel with ease around Gibraltar.
Book travel insurance for your trip . It’s a must for any holiday.

Read other travel guides

10 Best Day Trips from Gibraltar
50 Bucket List Experiences in Spain
The 10 Best Places to Visit in Spain for First Timers
17 Incredible Reasons To Visit Andalucia
How to Spend One Day in Malaga
How to Spend One Day in Granada
The Perfect 2 Days in Seville Itinerary

Sharing is caring!

Travel Writer

Cristina is the founder and writer of My Little World of Travelling. She was born and raised in Malaga (Costa del Sol) and studied for a Master's Degree in Tourism. She is passionate about showing her hometown and other beautiful Andalusian destinations. She helps other travellers plan their trips to Spain by providing local advice and unique insights.

Great guide to Gibraltar! I only visited once as part of a day trip so I would love to get back there and explore it more thoroughly.

Thank you for writing such a comprehensive guide to visting Gibraltar. I would love to see those monkeys!

Have always had an eye on Gibraltar and this itinerary looks quite perfect! The caves look really beautiful! Thanks for sharing.

I am so pleased I came across this post. I will be in Spain for 3 months and want to visit Gibraltar but was put off because I am constantly told there is nothing to do there except see monkeys in the streets. So, thank you for sharing a very different view.

Comments are closed.

Privacy Overview
Strictly Necessary Cookies
3rd Party Cookies
Cookie Policy

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.

Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

More information about our Cookie Policy

Inspiration
Destinations
Places To Stay
Style & Culture
Food & Drink
Wellness & Spas
News & Advice
Partnerships
Traveller's Directory
Travel Tips
Competitions

An insider's guide to Gibraltar: Where to stay and what to do

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Not since World War II has Gibraltarian guitarist Pepe Roman’s moving number Llévame donde nací ever been so relevant. Once a rallying cry for Gibraltarian communities spread across the globe, the song – a literal translation of 'Take me to where I was born' – was given a new lease of life as the planet went into lockdown and many nationals, including myself, chose to return home. Today, Gibraltar's exemplary vaccine rollout has secured its place on the UK ’s green list and triggered fresh interest in the British Overseas Territory, so I'm thrilled to be writing about the rocky peninsula I call home.

The Queen once said Gibraltar had long been famous for three things – ‘for its inviolable strength as a fortress, for the loyalty of its people and for the important strategic part it has played on so many different occasions.’ But life on the Rock is about more than politics or the ‘Brits abroad’ image often associated with it.

Dining room at the new Queen's Picture house Eatery

Things to do in Gibraltar

The best restaurants and bars in gibraltar.

Within its city walls, Gibraltar's heritage is showcased in the old town, which features a melange of architectural styles shaped by its Moorish, Spanish and British rulers. Nowadays, it’s characterised by a bicultural lifestyle. Here, Llanitos (colloquial for Gibraltarian and the local vernacular) start with churros at the Piccadilly Garden Bar , followed by a light lunch at family-run Sacarello's coffee shop before wrapping up with dinner and a movie at the newly opened Queen's Picturehouse & Eatery in Casemates Vaults.

Dating back to 1817, the British-built bombproof barracks known as Grand Casemates Square (or simply Casemates to locals) has been converted into a hub lined with al-fresco cafés that now double as the entrypoint to town life. Around the corner, the old bastion of Chatham Counterguard – named after the Earl of Chatham, who was Governor from 1821 – has also been turned into a lively strip of open-air restaurants and wine bars. Head here for tapas at La Bodeguiya , a place favoured by locals, and drinks at MyWines , arguably the centre of Gibraltar's nightlife.

While the old town could be mistaken for that of a nearby Spanish town, Gibraltar also has three marinas. There’s Ocean Village and Marina Bay , with the flashy nightclub, late-night casino and the Sunborn , supposedly the world's first five-star superyacht hotel , and Queensway Quay – a more considered and relaxing spot where you can find Casa Pepe , a traditional restaurant offering Spanish classics such as berenjena con miel (thinly sliced fried aubergine drizzled with honey), croquetas de calamares en su tinta (squid croquettes with ink) and jamón serrano carved straight off the leg. It's worth noting that residents tend to order raciones , plates of a single food that are larger than tapas and meant to be shared.

THE BEST GIBRALTAR BEACHES

We're meant to enjoy the little things in life – and Gibraltar's compact beaches won't let you forget it. On the Mediterranean side of the rock is Eastern beach , which is our largest, sandy stretch, the picturesque Sandy Bay and my personal favourite, Catalan Bay … During the 17th and 18th centuries, La Caleta, as it's known by locals, was populated by Genoese fishermen. Today, the families who live in the colourful village (Caleteños) are mostly descendants of the same fishermen, but the beach and its restaurants remain open to everyone. Head here for long seafood lunches at the unpretentious Seawave Bar , where highlights might include almejas al vino blanco (clams in white wine), pulpo a la Gallega (Galician-style octopus) and catches of the day – all to be washed down with every Llanito's favourite drink, a refreshing red-wine spritzer known as tinto de verano .

The best pie and mash in London: 12 of the tastiest traditional spots

Of course, the 1,400ft Jurassic limestone promontory eventually blocks the sun, so the more seasoned beachgoers are known to hop their way over to Camp Bay – known as 'el Quari', Llanito for 'the quarry' – a small, rocky sweep with a lido facing the Atlantic. Stay here for spectacular sunsets paired with paella and live music at the boisterous Dolphin restaurant and beach bar.

THE GIBRALTAR LANDMARKS TO SEE

Needless to say, some of the more obvious attractions are definitely worth checking out. The famous Barbary macaques are a thrill; the Moorish Castle is legendary (vexillophiles might be keen to know it features on our flag); St Michael's Cave is an unmatched speleological experience, and hikes through the Gibraltar Nature Reserve are a highlight that make LA ’s Runyon Canyon look like a molehill. Just be sure to pack SPF and sunglasses and download the Gibraltar Upper Rock Paths app (available on iPhone and Android platforms) to plan your route beforehand.

GIBRALTAR LANGUAGE

Interestingly, the territory's heritage of Spanish and British rulers has not only influenced local buildings and food, but also its speech. On arrival, you'll soon be struck by local conversations that include a mix of languages in the same sentence. It's worth noting that Spanish was principally used before English became the official language that is taught in schools. So, while the autochthonous population pronounced new words as heard or read, a new dialect formed. Not only was this reflected in the language of the classroom (for example, tishe for 'teacher'), but it extended to the playground too ( meblis for 'marbles'). However, phrase books are not required because most if not all locals can and will speak English nowadays.

WHERE TO STAY

The sunborn.

The seven-deck Sunborn yacht hotel is permanently moored at Ocean Village, a bustling complex of bars and restaurants. It’s also within walking distance of the town and a short taxi ride from the airport. Granted, the Hollywood-style red carpet and cruise-liner interior are less subtle and more glitz and glamour, but the location can’t be beaten.

Address: The Sunborn, 35 Ocean Village Promenade, GX11 1AA, Gibraltar Book your stay

Octopus House

For a more authentically Llanito experience, Octopus House is situated in the Upper Town area. With uninterrupted views towards Morocco and Spain, this sought-after townhouse enables you to live like a well-heeled local.

Address: Octopus House, Upper Town Area, GX11 1AA, Gibraltar Book your stay

Gibraltar entry requirements

The country is currently on the UK’s green list, but there are different requirements depending on which other countries on Gibraltar's own list of green, amber and red destinations you’ve arrived from – check the list at visitgibraltar.gi before travelling. If you’re coming from a green-list country, you do not need to provide evidence of vaccination or self-isolate, but you are required to take a Covid-19 lateral-flow test 24 hours before arrival. And for stays of more than seven days, a second test must be taken on day five. If you’re arriving from an amber or red list country and are vaccinated, a Covid-19 lateral-flow rapid test must be booked in advance of arrival (PCR tests are mandatory for unvaccinated travellers), while those who have not been fully vaccinated need to self-isolate in a hotel or private accomodation on arrival for 10 days (you must take a PCR test on the day of arrival and day 10). Passenger locator forms are also compulsory for all visitors.

Gibraltar weather

Visit between May and October for warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. Party-loving sun worshippers should put 10 September in their calendars: Gibraltar National Day sees pretty much every local and visitor dressed in the flag’s colours for musical performances, fireworks and street parties.

GETTING AROUND

EBike Gibraltar , Ocean Village: whether booking a private tour or rental, e-bikes are an eco-friendly way to get around town.

In2Adventures , Sandy Bay: from hydrofoiling to stand-up paddleboarding, there are plenty of water adventures to sign up for around the Rock.

HOW TO GET HERE

Regular services to Gibraltar operate from the following destinations:

London City Airport, UK, with BA CityFlyer London Heathrow, UK, with British Airways London Gatwick, UK, with EasyJet London Luton, UK, with Wizz Air Manchester, UK, with EasyJet Bristol, UK, with EasyJet Birmingham, UK, with Eastern Airways Southampton, UK, with Eastern Airways Edinburgh, Scotland, UK, with EasyJet

Like this? Now read:

The 10 best places to visit in Europe in 2021

The best beaches in Europe for 2021

The prettiest cities in Europe

ST. MICHAEL’S CAVE

Windsor suspension bridge, o’hara’s battery, mediterranean steps, great siege tunnels, world war ii tunnels, princess caroline’s battery.

Moorish Castle

TOP 10 ATTRACTIONS

ST MICHAEL’S CAVE

PRINCESS CAROLINE’S BATTERY

MOORISH CASTLE

The skywalk was opened on wednesday 21st march 2018 by star wars actor mark hamill, aka luke skywalker..

It is Gibraltar’s newest attraction and not for the faint hearted! Located at a former military lookout point, the glass platform protrudes out from the edge of the cliff over the Jurassic dune below and overlooks the Mediterranean.

A Nature Reserve ticket is required to visit the Skywalk. info@skywalk.gi

May: from 09:00hrs to 2000hrs (Last entry at 19:45hrs)

June to September: from 09:00hrs to 21:00hrs (Last entry at 20:45hrs)

October: from 0900hrs to 18:30hrs

THIS AMAZING, NATURAL, PHENOMENON HAS THOUSANDS OF VISITORS A YEAR WANDERING THROUGH ITS HUGE CAVERN.

Thought to be bottomless and first mentioned in the writings of Roman travel writer Pomponius Melia in 45CE, St Michael’s has seen millions of visitors since then though not all with tourism in mind. For instance, learn about how 500 Spanish soldiers were led to safety by Simon Susarte, the shepherd who knew a secret path into the cave during your visit. Also explore the cave in all its glory, see the stalagmite that eventually got too heavy on one side and literally fell over still lying there after centuries. You can even examine the growth rings, the darker rings occurring during periods of less rain. Wonder at the sight that is the Cathedral cave so called because the mineral formations around the walls resemble the pipes of a cathedral organ. St Michael’s is worth the walk the temperature inside remains constant all year round and drips no matter how long it has been since our last rainfall. In fact, if you look carefully at the floor, you will see the beginnings of those stalagmites that in 1000 years might just be knee high to a grasshopper.

For the more adventurous amongst you and with those with a little more time on their hands why not explore Lower St Michael’s Cave. Discovered while opening an alternative entrance to the cave during WWII, this cave is also open to visitors but strictly by appointment only. An experienced guide is needed to guide you as you climb, slide and explore deep into the cave. One of the many highlights is a walk around the 5cm rim of a small lagoon! Truly an experience that you will talk about long after your return home.

A Nature Reserve ticket is required to access St Michael’s Cave. A Lower St Michael’s Tour with guide, has a separate fee and can be arranged by emailing calypsotours@mhbland.com .

If you are looking for a thrill and a great photo opportunity, do not miss out on the Windsor Suspension Bridge.

Located just above Apes Den on the Royal Anglican Way and spanning 70 metres, (just over 7 London double decker buses) over a deep ravine the spectacular Windsor Suspension Bridge is well worth the effort. Surrounded by local and World War II history, and overlooking the town and Bay of Gibraltar, you will not be disappointed.

A Nature Reserve Ticket is required in order to visit the Windsor Suspension Bridge.

The Rock’s formidable highpoint and protector of the Strait still topped by a WWII Gun.

If you rode the Cable Car to the top and decided to walk down towards St Michael’s Cave, then about halfway down you will see a fork in the road that leads to O’Hara’s Battery. The path is a little steep but well worth it if you are into your military history. Named after Governor General Charles O’Hara there was originally a lookout tower at the point, we now call O’Hara’s Battery. The Governor believed if such a tower was built it would enable the Garrison to see Cadiz and any ships heading towards Gibraltar. After it was built, and his theory was dashed, it became known as O’Hara’s Folly. The battery is the highest point of Gibraltar at 426 metres (1400ft approx.). It is also the summit of the Mediterranean Steps, before the walk back downhill past St Michael’s Cave and on to the Ape’s Den. Alternatively, you can purchase a one-way Cable Car ticket from the top station and glide down in just 6 minutes.

O’Hara’s tower itself is long gone, being shot down in a bout of target practise by HMS Wasp in 1888 but there still stands a 9.2” gun guarding the straits although it was never or will ever be fired in anger.

A Nature Reserve ticket is required to access O’Hara’s Battery

THE ENTRANCE TO THE NATURE RESERVE IS THE PLACE TO START, IF YOU FEEL LIKE A WALK AROUND THE SOUTHERN AND EASTERN SIDE OF GIBRALTAR. THE VIEWS ARE FANTASTIC, BUT IT IS NOT FOR THE FAINT HEARTED!

“And Her Britannic Majesty, at the request of the Catholic King, does consent and agree, that no leave shall be given under any pretence whatsoever, either to Jews or Moors, to reside or have their dwellings in the said town of Gibraltar” (Article X – Treaty of Utrecht 1713)

Under the rules of the above-mentioned article Gibraltar had a problem, what to do with a fairly sizeable Jewish population? The area ‘Jew’s Gate’ is thus named because of the old Jewish cemetery dating back to the 1700’s. The cemetery was placed here specifically away from the prying eyes of any Spanish visitors, so the article was never seen to be broken. The last burial there was in the 1860’s but the cemetery is beautifully maintained to this day. It is now the official entrance into the Nature Reserve through which taxi’s and buses must pass.

Next to this is the entrance to the Mediterranean steps, roughly an hour long and strenuous walk through the fauna of Gibraltar that stretches all around the southern end of the Rock snaking upwards towards O’Hara’s battery. By the end of this walk you will have seen examples of the wild flowers unique to Gibraltar such as Candytuft, Thyme, Chickweed, Campion and Saxifrage. The views of the south and along the eastern side are worth the effort. As the name implies there are a lot of steep steps so if you intend to tackle it in the summer take a floppy hat, sturdy shoes or trainers and plenty of drinking water.

A Nature Reserve ticket is required to access the Med Steps.

There are various footpaths within the Nature Reserve which allow you to explore the Upper Rock at your pace, surrounded by Nature and History.

Whether you are a Nature Lover, History Buff or Thrill Seeker there is a walk for you. Alternatively, you can discover and learn more about our famous Barbary Macaques.

Upper Rock Nature Trails:

iOS https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/gibraltar-upper-rock-paths/id902352662?mt=8

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.elitechlab.UpperRock

Macaque & Cable Car Walk : izi.travel app

iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/izi-travel-city-guides/id554726752?mt=8

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=travel.opas.client

You will be required to purchase a Nature Reserve Ticket to access the footpaths.

PUT YOURSELF IN THE SHOES OF SOLDIERS MORE THAN 200 YEARS AGO AND EXPERIENCE THE SIEGE TUNNELS NEAR ENOUGH AS THEY WERE WHEN THEY WERE FIRST DUG OUT USING JUST SPADES, CHISELS, HAMMERS AND BLASTING POWDER.

“The Spanish are digging in to the north and getting closer with cannon and shot Sir!” said the soldier. Governor of Gibraltar, General Elliott thought for a second, looked at the north face of the Rock where a small platform could be seen jutting out from the sheer cliff. “What I need is cannon on that notch!” he commanded. All around looked to the sky, some of the officers even scratched their heads in thought. Suddenly from the back the small voice of a Cornish tin miner, Sgt Major Ince was heard. “We could dig our way through the rock Sir.” A few murmurs, someone emitted a stifled laugh, the Governor said, “I like it!”

British ingenuity was at its best when during the Great Siege of 1779 – 1783 Governor of Gibraltar General Elliott set a competition and offered $1000 to anyone who could get a cannon on an area on the north face of the Rock called the ‘Notch’. An idea offered by Sgt Major Ince to cut through the limestone rock by hand was taken and the British set to work in 1781. The tunnels were dug using black powder charges, hammers, chisels and shovels. An amazing feat of both engineering and human effort these are a sightseeing opportunity totally unique to Gibraltar. Walking up the steep slope to the entrance of the tunnels gives you some appreciation of the effort of the men who built them, it must have been unimaginable. Even worse, as you walk through the tunnels, is the display case with the rations for the men. The case has a week’s rations that today wouldn’t last a day. Continue the more than 350-foot walk through the 200-year-old galleries and experience life as it was for them. Marvel at the cannons lining the holes looking out across the isthmus to Spain and shudder as you imagine the roar of the cannons firing in such a space. The tunnel is lined with ’embrasures’ a fortification that allows the firer to remain protected as the weapon fires. As you walk along the tunnels you will also see ammunition stores and some of the passageways leading to old WWII tunnels. The tunnels were completed in mid-1783 about 3 months after the Great Siege ended. At the end of the tunnel is St Georges Hall where legend says Lord Napier held a banquet for General Ulysses S. Grant 18th President of the USA. Interestingly for his efforts Ince was given a commission in the Army, a plot of land on the Rock still called Ince’s Farm and the Duke of Kent (Queen Victoria’s father) gave him a ‘fine horse’. There is no mention of the $1000.

You will be required to purchase a Nature Reserve Ticket to access the Great Siege Tunnels.

SEE WHERE CHURCHILL AND EISENHOWER SAT, THOUGHT UP AND PLANNED OPERATION TORCH – THE INVASION OF NORTH AFRICA.

The tour, available daily, takes about an hour and you will be able to view the places Eisenhower and Churchill worked during the planning of the invasion of North Africa in 1941. You enter the tunnels at Hay’s Level just by the Moorish Castle. Walking through the tunnels listening to the multilingual audio guide is fascinating enough but you can also look forward to visiting Jock’s balcony, a unique look out on the sheer north face of the Rock which overlooks the airfield, the local cemetery and northwards over the Costa del Sol

You will be required to purchase a Nature Reserve Ticket to access the World War II Tunnels. World War II Tunnels can be contacted at ur&beaches@gibraltar.gov.gi or tel :: +350 200 71648 / +350 200 45957.

Summer Hours: WWII Tunnels from 09:30hrs to 18:45hrs (last entry at 18:15hrs)

Winter Hours (October): 09:30hrs to 18:15hrs (last entry at 17:15hrs)

A GREAT VIEWPOINT WITHOUT THE NEED TO CLIMB TO THE SIEGE TUNNELS AND FROM WHERE YOU CAN CLEARLY SEE THE RUNWAY AND THE FRONTIER.

Still operating and manned in the early 1980’s this battery has several WWII guns that though now decommissioned still watch over the Bay of Gibraltar. There is a great view of the airfield, the northern part of the city and the border into Spain. The name itself is a misnomer as the battery is really St Anne’s Battery. Princess Caroline’s Battery is located above it and houses the Military Heritage Centre, the road to it is accessed from here and hence the confusion. The guns, now silent, have been recently refurbished and worth a look as a reminder of Gibraltar’s more modern days as a fortress.

Really a ‘Tower of Homage’ this ancient building is still one of the most recognised features of the rock with the union flag flying proudly above it.

Originally built in the 1160CE the Moorish Castle was ransacked by the Spanish between 1309 – 1333. This ‘Tower of Homage’ was rebuilt in the 14th Century by Abu-l-Hasan and today you can visit the inside of the recently restored castle, wonder at those 14th century walls and marvel at the feats of Gibraltar’s first city builders, the Moors. If you look closely you can still see the canon dents in the castle walls. The original city was called Medina Al Fath – ‘City of Victory’ and was walled with defensive towers, dwellings, mosques and a palace for prayer. It also had Moorish baths, you can still see a similar bath within the Gibraltar Museum.

A Nature Reserve ticket is required to access the Moorish Castle.

BARBARY APES

The resident Barbary apes are sure to entertain you at the Cable Car top station. Snap a photo and share it instantly with FREE WI-FI.

The Cable Car

A must for any visitor to gibraltar, nature reserve.

Access the Nature Reserve: Explore the Upper Rock Nature Reserve at your own pace starting from the Cable Car top station.

Other Attractions

St Michaels Cave
Windsor Suspension Bridge
O’Hara’s Battery
Mediterranean Steps
Greats Siege Tunnels
World War II Tunnels
Princess Carolines Battery

OTHER ATTRACTIONS

Main Street
Catalan Bay
Trafalgar Cemetery
Garrison Library
Gibraltar Museum
UNESCO World Heritage Site Viewing Platform
Alameda Gardens
Dolphin Watching
Bird Watching
Europa Point
Nature Reserve
Accomodation & Marinas
Monkey Certificates

QUICK CONTACT

Cable Car Grand Parade, Gibraltar

+34 672 381 536

ask@gibraltarinfo.gi

Website Design by Piranha Designs

Top 10 Attractions
Dolphin Adventure

Skip to primary navigation
Skip to main content
Skip to primary sidebar
Skip to footer

The Opinionated Travelogue of a Photo Maniac

Middle East
North America
South America
Pacific Islands
FOOD & WINE
TRAVEL GUIDES
TRAVEL RESOURCES
Rants & Raves
Travel Blogger Interviews
Contact Form
Privacy Policy
Featured Elsewhere

12 Amazing Things to Do in Gibraltar

Last Modified: July 29, 2024 // by Anda // 4 Comments

Located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, at the crossroads of Europe and Africa, the rock Gibraltar is one of the most sought after destinations for those visiting Costa del Sol. Whether you choose to spend here a few days, or visit it as a day trip from Malaga or other cities in Spain, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Gibraltar.

Gibraltar is a tiny and confusing piece of land, stretching overs an area of only 6.7 km 2 (2.6 square miles). Most people think it’s part of Spain, but it is not. Gibraltar is actually a British overseas territory, which means it’s under the jurisdiction of the United Kingdom. It’s hard to imagine that such a small place can have so much political importance, history and attractions. And yet it does.

Table of Contents

A Brief History of Gibraltar

How to get to gibraltar, getting around gibraltar, how much time do you need for exploring gibraltar, [1] ride the funicular to the top of the rock, [2] visit the nature reserve atop the rock of gibraltar, [3] enjoy the gibraltar monkeys, [4] climb the mediterranean steps, [5] visit the skywalk, [6] step inside st. michael’s cave, [7] walk across windsor suspension bridge, [8] visit the moorish castle, [9] go back in time at the great siege tunnels, [10] visit the lighthouse at europa point, [11] walk along the main street, [12] spend some time on the beach.

1. The Rock of Gibraltar is one of the two “Pillars of Hercules”

2. Many celebrities were married or spent their honeymoon in Gibraltar

3. the airport runway intersects with city traffic, 4. it has its own language, 5. there are plans for an undersea tunnel linking gibraltar to morocco.

Because of its unrivaled position right at the entrance to the Mediterranean, Spain, France and Britain tried to gain control over Gibraltar for many years. In 1704, during the War of the Spanish Succession , the Anglo-Dutch forces captured Gibraltar from Spain. But after the Treaty of Utrect in 1713 the territory was ultimately ceded to Britain.

Subsequently, the British turned it into a heavily fortified air and naval base that guards the Strait of Gibraltar, thus ensuring safe passage for trade ships which pass through the strait.

After the UK and Gibraltar left the European Union in 2020, Spain tried repeatedly to convince the United Nations to reunite Gibraltar with the rest of the mainland. But Britain has steadily refuted the claims.

You can reach Gibraltar either by plane, bus, ferry or car.

Gibraltar International Airport (GIB) has direct flights from London and Bristol and connections from many other European cities . If you travel from the US you can connect for Gibraltar in London. The flight takes a little under 3 hours.

For those coming from Morocco , the easiest way is by ferry from Tangier. There are two routes that you can take in order to take a trip to Gibraltar:

Crossing from Morocco to Gibraltar by Ferry

Tangier Ville Port – Tarifa (one hour). This route is shorter and better located, in the city of Tangier. However there is no rental car place in Tarifa , so you’ll have to travel to Gibraltar by bus.
Tangier Med Port – Algeciras (one hour and a half). Although longer and farther away from Tangier (50 km away), this route is good if you are planning to rent a car. The car rental agency is located within walking distance from the ferry terminal.

If you’re visiting Gibraltar as a day trip from Spain, you’ll probably drive here and arrive first in La Línea, which is the border town between Spain and Gibraltar. Coming from the Costa del Sol, take the N-340 east toward La Línea or the A7 (Cadiz-Malaga highway), then turn south at the Junction 119 into the N-351.

If you are coming by bus you should know there are no buses that take you right into Gibraltar. However, all the major towns on Costa del Sol are connected to La Línea. The frontier is just a five minute walk away from La Linea Bus Station. Once you clear Spanish Customs and then Gibraltar Customs, bus no. 9 or 10 will take you into the city center or to the base of the funicular station.

If you want to take a trip to Gibraltar after visiting Morocco you should plan on renting a car from Algeciras. Since there is no rental car place in Tarifa, we took the ferry from Tangier to Algeciras. Although the crossing time was longer, the car rental place was just next to the ferry terminal, so it was worth it.

The drive from Algeciras is only 25 minutes (21.5 km) via Autovía del Mediterráneo/A-7. Once we enter Gibraltar navigation becomes more difficult because of the narrow and steep streets.

We checked into a hotel for two nights, so for us it made sense to bring the car into Gibraltar. However, people who come on a day trip to Gibraltar find driving a car more of a hindrance than a help.

Many visitors who come by car from Spain choose to leave their cars in La Linea. There is an underground carpark in Plaza de la Constitution which is easy to find and very cheap (€10/day). From there it’s an easy 10 minute walk to the border, where you can cross on foot.

After you pass through Immigration on the Spanish and then British sides, you will see busses waiting. For €2 you can ride the bus right into the centre of Gibraltar, where you’ll find the main square and the then the shopping street.

Gibraltar may seem small, but it’s not entirely walkable. The only part that you can explore on foot is the small old town, which in my opinion is pretty unremarkable and not really worth your time. The atmosphere has British feel with red phone booths and postal boxes, but in a sunny, Mediterranean climate.

If you want to go to the beaches, or to Europa Point and the upper rock attractions, you’ll have to take a Taxi, or book a sightseeing tour .

We spent two nights in Gibraltar, but only one full day for visiting the city and the Nature Reserve. Although small, the city has plenty of attractions to justify 2-3 days of fun if you have the time.

Nonetheless, most people visit Gibraltar as a day trip from Malaga or other cities on Costa del Sol. But ideally you should spend at least one night in Gibraltar if you don’t want to rush through the beautiful sights.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR

In our opinion Gibraltar’s most important historical sites and attractions are concentrated around the Nature Reserve, which is why I suggest starting your tour at the top of the Rock.

Riding the cable car to the top of the Rock is one of the most exciting things to do in Gibraltar. The ride itself is short, taking only 5-6 minutes to complete. But rising to an amazing 412 meters above the sea level is absolutely breathtaking!

At the top you’ll encounter a series of terraces from where you can enjoy some amazing views, a gift shop and an eating area.

Many people just come up here for the views and then go back down. However, I suggest continuing your way down on foot. Along the way you can visit the entire Nature Reserve and the many points of interest you’ll encounter.

The 400 m high Cliff from from which Gibraltar takes its name is one of the city’s most sought-after attractions. Visible from very far away, the Rock offers spectacular views of two continents (Europe and Africa).

Best things to do on the Rock of Gibraltar

To get to the top of the Rock you’ll have to take the funicular from the base station on the edge of the old town, next to the Botanical Garden.

Originally from the Atlas Mountains and the Rif Mountains of Morocco, the Barbary Macaque population in Gibraltar is the only wild monkey population on the European continent. When did the macaques arrive in Gibraltar is still unclear, but in the 1700s when the British took over this territory they were already present.

The monkeys are one of the biggest attractions in Gibraltar. You can see them not only in the Nature Reserve, but also down in the city. They used to come every morning on our hotel terrace, searching for scraps of food.

Although they are incredibly smart and cute, people are not encouraged to interact with them or feed them. They seem very friendly and are not shy at all, but they can attack unexpectedly so it’s wise to keep a safe distance.

Created back in the 18th century by the British military, these steps were used by the soldiers who had to access their defensive posts at the southern end of the Rock.

Hiking the Mediterranean Steps in Gibraltar

The steps are rather steep, but the hike is incredibly beautiful taking you to the ruins of the O’Hara and Lord Alley’s Batteries at 421 meters above the sea level.

Another thrilling thing to do up on the Rock of Gibraltar is walk along the glass platform of the Skywalk. The 8,000 square feet platform is entirely made of glass and anchored to the rock by 66,000 pounds of steel.

This is another point from where you can enjoy 360 degree views of the Strait of Gibraltar all the way to Africa.

Also in the Upper Rock Nature Reserve is another popular attraction of Gibraltar: St. Michael’s Cave. This is actually a series of caverns made of limestone which was formed by the slow leakage of rainwater through the rock.

The cave was named after a similar grotto located in Apulia, Italy, where the Archangel Michael is said to have appeared. All throughout the cave you’ll see amazing stalactites and stalagmites and through theatrical lighting an angel-like figure of an angel appears in the center of the cave.

Visiting St. Michael's Cave in Gibraltar

Visiting St. Michael’s Cave is a mesmerizing experience! The cave also houses a 400 seat auditorium where you can watch a sound and light show that turns the cave into an even more remarkable and fantastic experience. Like a cathedral!

Hanging above a 50-meter deep gorge, the Windsor Suspension Bridge is definitely not for the faint-hearted. It reminded me a lot about the Capilano Suspension Bridge in Vancouver, Canada . The bridge is a new addition to the Nature Reserve, being open to the public in 2016.

Crossing the Windsor Bridge in Gibraltar

The bridge measures 71 meters in length and is located between two batteries along the Royal Anglian Way, one of the many footpaths on the Rock of Gibraltar. From up here you’ll be able to enjoy magnificent views across the strait, the bay and the city.

Most people visiting Gibraltar on a day trip miss the Moorish Castle, which is a pity. If you continue to the lower part of The Rock you’ll come across the remnants of the Moorish Castle complex. Today only the Tower of Homage and some fortified walls are left of this once grandiose fortification. Looking at this awe inspiring site you can only imagine how much more impressive the castle was in its heyday.

visiting Gibraltar as a day trip from malaga

The history of the Moorish Castle dates back to the 11th century, when it was built by the Arabs to guard the Strait of Gibraltar.

Given its strategic position, Gibraltar has undergone many sieges during its long history. But none was as famous as the Great Siege of 1779-1783, when France and Spain attempted to recapture it from the British. In order to defend the city, the British carved into the rock some very impressive tunnels.

It’s interesting to visit the tunnels and see the vast cannons and guns which were used to defeat the enemy troops. This was perhaps one of the strongest defensive military structures ever built. There are also traces of graffiti on the walls, left by 18th-century soldiers.

On the southernmost tip of Gibraltar you’ll find Europa Point and Lighthouse, another interesting place to visit on your trip. We found it interesting because this is the point where and where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic Oceans. From here you can see The Rock of Gibraltar and the coast of Morocco, which lies just 21km (13mi) across the strait.

The lighthouse and the beautiful views are about all you can see here.

Many people will argue that visiting Main Street in Old Town Gibraltar is definitely worth it. I personally didn’t find it very impressive and I don’t think you’ll loose much if you skip it. Especially if you visit Gibraltar on a short day trip. The Rock and its Nature Reserve is much more beautiful and entertaining.

On the Main Street you’ll find lots of shops and restaurants, some of which have nice patios where you can sit outside. However, if you want to do some shopping this place may be for you.

Because of its location at the western end of the Costa del Sol, Gibraltar enjoys some of Europe’s most glamorous stretches of golden sands. Assuming that you are in Gibraltar for more than just a day trip, you should make time to visit one of these gorgeous beaches.

The most famous ones are at Sandy Bay, Catalan Bay and Camp Bay. The easiest to reach is Eastern Beach, located on the Mediterranean coastline of Gibraltar. The beach is in a residential area and extends all the way to the runway of Gibraltar’s International Airport. Unlike the beaches on the east side are at times in the shade of The Rock, Eastern Beach enjoys sunshine all throughout the day.

Interesting Facts About Gibraltar

1. the rock of gibraltar is one of the two “ pillars of hercules ”.

The Strait of Gibraltar spans between the mythical Pillars of Hercules . The northern pillar is the Rock of Gibraltar at Gibraltar, and the southern pillar is the Jebel Musa peak, in Morocco. The pillars were created when Hercules, the Greek mythical hero, smashed through the mount Atlas to create the straits.

Getting married in Gibraltar is easy and relatively quick, which is why it is one of the most popular wedding destinations in Europe. Besides, it’s an English speaking country with year-round sunshine and great wedding venues.

Not surprisingly many celebrities tied the knot there. Among them were Lawrence Harvey and Margaret Leighton, as well as John Lennon and Yoko Ono. When asked why did they choose Gibraltar, John Lennon said: “It is quiet, British and friendly.”

Also, Roger Moore honeymooned in Gibraltar whilst Princess Diana and Prince Charles began their honeymoon there.

If you fly in or out of Gibraltar you’ll notice that your plane’s runway intersects a busy local street. Yes, that’s true! Winston Churchill avenue closes whenever a plane lands or departs, so cars and pedestrians must stop and wait for the plane to pass.

Gibraltar Airport runway intersecting the highway

During busy traffic hours, this could be quite a scene! Especially when you realize that the only thing preventing a nasty collision between an airplane and a car are two flimsy looking barriers, similar to the ones you see at the train crossing in the countryside.

Despite being a British territory, Gibraltar has its own language called Llanito . It’s a strange mix of Spanish and English, along with some Portuguese and Maltese words. However, wherever you go you’ll be able to communicate in English or Spanish

For many years people believed that Leonora’s Cave, which stems from St. Michael’s Cave, was in fact a secret tunnel that connected Gibraltar to the African continent. In 1840, a certain Colonel Mitchell and his friend attempted to discover this tunnel, but got lost in the cave and have never been found.

Although a secret tunnel between the two continents may have never existed, there are current plans for a railway tunnel connecting Morocco and Gibraltar. Expected to open in 2030, the tunnel would extend for 27 kilometers undersea with a maximum depth of 475 meters.

Reader Interactions

July 5, 2024 at 4:36 am

Gibraltar has been on my bucketlist since long, thanks for giving me one more reason to visit. Loved the blog!!

Daniel Ethan

January 31, 2024 at 11:53 pm

Amazing article, would like to explore Gibraltar.

Joanna Rath

December 14, 2022 at 3:18 am

I will be in Spain for three months in 2023. I had all but decided not to bother visiting Gibraltar. Now that I have read this article, I will definitely put it on my list of things to do.

December 16, 2022 at 2:52 pm

I’d suggest adding Gibraltar on your list, even if you only have one day to explore it. It’s totally worth it.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

All rights reserved © Travel Notes & Beyond. The material on this website is protected by copyright law. Republishing the content on this blog (including text, photography, etc.) is strictly prohibited.

AFFILIATE PROGRAM DISCLOSURE

Some of the pages and posts of this blog contain links to products and services that may be useful for my readers. When clicking on these links you will have the option to purchase or register for a service at no extra cost to you, but doing so can help me offset the costs associated with running this blog. Thank you for your support!

Wanderlust Travel & Photos

Seeing the world one trip at a time.

Work With Me
Travel Journal
Privacy Policy
Browse by Continent
Tanzania Travel
Thailand Travel
Dominican Republic Travel
Italy Travel
Spain Travel
Canada Travel
Australia Travel
New Zealand Travel
Peru Travel
Browse by Region
East North Central
East South Central
Mid-Atlantic
New England
South Atlantic
West North Central
West South Central
Central America
North America
South America
Travel Vlog
Instagram Photos

The Ultimate Gibraltar Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

This Gibraltar travel guide post contains my Hotels.com, Expedia, Vrbo, and Viator affiliate links. I may receive a commission when you book a hotel or tour from this article, though at no additional cost to you. I hand-pick and recommend only the hotels and tours that I have thoroughly researched and feel comfortable recommending.

When it comes to destinations in Europe, the tiny overseas British territory of Gibraltar may be one of the most unique. Located on the southernmost tip of the Iberian Peninsula, right next to Spain, it is literally a slice of the UK amid all things Spanish. “Gib”, as the locals like to call Gibraltar, is one of fourteen remaining British Overseas Territories in what was once a vast British Empire.

However, the history of Gibraltar isn’t all British. In fact, the name Gibraltar actually comes from an Arab general, Gibel Tariq, who named it after himself after conquering Southern Spain in 711. Spain would remain under Moorish rule for over 800 years until Spain reconquered the country. However, Gibraltar would be lost to the British in 1704 and has remained under British rule ever since.

An All-You-Need Gibraltar Travel Guide

When you step foot in Gibraltar, your mind will be caught in a tug-of-war between the UK and Spain. Even though you are in the middle of Andalusia, the language, the currency, the famous red mailboxes, and everything else is distinctly British. It is a surreal and incredible place to visit. With my comprehensive Gibraltar travel guide, you will have all the resources needed to plan a trip you will remember for a lifetime.

Gibraltar Travel Guide Navigation Menu

At a glance.

Before you start making any travel plans, you need to be sure you meet the country’s entrance requirements. This includes all of the passport, VISA, and immunization requirements for the United Kingdom.

In addition, you need to make sure you have a clear understanding of what languages they speak in the United Kingdom. This way, you can plan any translation needs you may have. Not only that, but you will need to know what currency they use in the United Kingdom. Knowing this, you can plan to exchange currency before your trip if necessary.

I have included some of this key information in my Gibraltar travel guide below for you to review as you start to make your travel plans.

Passport, VISA, Customs, and Immunization Requirements

To assist you in navigating the legal requirements for visiting Gibraltar, I outline the key entry requirements below. For more information, please refer to the US State Department webpage for United Kingdom Travel .

This information is critical to understanding the requirements you will need to meet to ensure you are allowed entry into the United Kingdom. This includes the VISA, passport, customs, and immunizations requirements and recommendations.

Travel Immunizations

Before you leave for your trip to Gibraltar, you need to make sure you have all of the proper vaccinations. Not only to protect yourself but to protect others. You may have questions on what immunizations you need and what to look out for when getting them. If you do, I have included some general guidelines I can pass on to you from my experience below.

Most specialized travel clinics will not accept insurance so you will have to pay for your travel consultation and immunizations and then request reimbursement from your insurance company later.
Some immunizations aren’t accepted by every insurance company, so check with your insurance provider before getting your immunizations.
Check with your regular doctor first, as often they can do a travel consultation for you and write you the necessary prescriptions for your immunizations, even if they aren’t able to give them to you. This way you can ensure that at least your travel consultant will be covered by your insurance up-front.
Check with Walgreens or other drug stores that give flu shots to see if they have any of the immunization shots that you require before going to a specialized clinic that doesn’t accept insurance to get them. Walgreens can give you many of the immunizations necessary for international travel, and they accept insurance up-front.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website can be a great resource for answering any travel immunization questions that you have.

United Kingdom Immunization Recommendations

In case you are unsure of what travel vaccinations you might need, I have compiled a list below of some of what you might expect your physician to recommend.

Hepatitis A & B (if you haven’t had them).
Tetanus (if you aren’t current).
Transderm SCōP Patch (for motion sickness) or at minimum Dramamine pills if you get motion sickness easily and you plan on getting out on the water or doing adventure activities.

Packing Tips

Outside of knowing the entry and immunization requirements, there is no pre-travel task more important than packing. Don’t worry, I am here to make sure you are packed and prepared for your trip. I have included links to my packing resources in my Gibraltar travel guide below for you to review.

Top Things to See and Do in Gibraltar

Gibraltar is a unique destination with a wealth of incredible things to see and do. Because of its status as an overseas territory, it has a unique blend of cultures and a fascinating history for visitors to enjoy. Whether you come to see the history behind this strategic fortress or to enjoy a clice of UK culture in the middle of Spain, Gibraltar certainly won’t disappoint.

If you are in the process of planning your trip and need to fill out your itinerary, I have included a list of my top things to see and do in my Gibraltar travel guide below.

View Larger Map

Reach the Top of the Rock

One of the most popular things to do when visiting Gibraltar is to get high up on the rock to enjoy the spectacular views. From up on top of “the Rock”, you can see across the Strait of Gibraltar to the continent of Africa on a clear day.

The straight is one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world, so you will also see a lot of large freight ships. It is an amazing sight to behold. Make sure you have a camera because you will want to remember these amazing views!

St. Michael’s Cave

One of the can’t-miss destinations when visiting Gibraltar is the amazing St. Michael’s Cave . Located in the heart of the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, a legend says the cave is bottomless. The legend says that the cave is linked to a subterranean passage under the Strait of Gibraltar that connects with the continent of Africa.

While this legend certainly isn’t true, it doesn’t mean St. Michael’s Cave isn’t amazing in other ways. It has been used as a hospital, a hideaway, and most recently as a concert venue. That’s right, because of the cave’s incredible acoustics, it has been used as a concert venue since the early 1960s. In fact, it is set up with an amazing light system that changes the main cave room to a brilliant array of colors.

The Great Siege Tunnels

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Gibraltar is the Great Siege Tunnels . This incredible tunnel system is entirely man-made, which will blow your mind when you see it. They were carved out by the British Merchant Marines to defend Gibraltar from the French and Spanish during the Great Siege of 1779 to 1783.

When you tour the siege tunnels, you will see just how advantageous of a defense position Gibraltar is. This is especially true when the defenders are highly fortified in tunnels deep within the rock. It is an absolutely incredible experience to walk in the footsteps of these soldiers and understand the history behind Gibraltar. If you have the time when you visit, I strongly recommend a stop at the siege tunnels.

The Mediterranean Steps

If you love to get outside and hike, then you won’t want to miss the incredible Mediterranean Steps when you visit Gibraltar. This amazing series of steep steps was created by the British military back in the 18th century as a way for soldiers to access different defensive positions. This included the Levant, Martin’s, O’Hara’s, and Lord Airey’s Batteries.

Today, the Mediterranean Steps are more of a tourist attraction than they are a strategic defensive tool. That’s great because the steps are a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the incredible views of Gibraltar. However, you should be aware that this is not an easy hike. This 1,800-meter trek is quite steep, so it will test your endurance. However, if you are up to the task the views are nothing short of spectacular.

The Ape’s Den

One of my absolute favorite spots in Gibraltar is the renowned Ape’s Den . The legend has it that Winston Churchill once said that the British would retain control of Gibraltar as long as there were apes on the rock. Then, when the population of apes dwindled around the time of World War II, Churchill had more apes transported in from Africa to strengthen their population. So, these Barbary macaques play an integral role in Gibraltar’s history.

As the name suggests, you can almost always find the infamous “Apes of Gibraltar” roaming about near the Ape’s Den. Located at the cable car’s middle station, the Ape’s Den is a place where food is left out by the nature reserve to prevent the apes from pestering tourists. This makes it an amazing spot to see these delightful primates play with one another.

If you are planning a trip to Gibraltar, you should be aware that the cable cars do not stop at the middle station between April and October. So, if you are visiting between these months, you will need to either hike up to this spot or visit with a tour guide.

Europa Point

Another popular spot for tourists to visit in Gibraltar is the amazing Europa Point . Although it is the southernmost point of Gibraltar, Europa Point isn’t actually the southernmost point of the Iberian Peninsula. However, it is an important point because it defines the boundary between the Straits of Gibraltar and the Atlantic Ocean.

When you visit Europa Point, there are five notable buildings that I recommend checking out. This includes Harding’s Battery, the Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque, the Shrine of Our Lady Europe, the Europa Point Lighthouse, and the Nun’s Well. I especially enjoyed the beautiful lighthouse, one of Europe’s most beautiful. In addition, Europa Point is also an amazing place to see all of the sea traffic around Gibraltar, which is incredible.

Shop on Main Street

When you have had your fill of sightseeing around Gibraltar, I suggest dropping by Main Street to do some shopping and grab some food at one of the area’s many incredible restaurants. This incredible street has a history that dates all the way back to the 14th century. Today, Main Street in Gibraltar is renowned for its variety of incredible stores that you can shop at. Each year, millions of visitors walk this street and enjoy the duty-free goods.

This includes one of the best glass-blowing stores that I have seen in my travels. You can actually sit and watch them blow the glass into elaborate bowls, vases, and dishes. It was certainly a highlight for us. Even if you aren’t a big shopper, a stop at Main Street to people-watch and grab a bite is a great way to soak in the culture.

The World War II Tunnels

Another aspect of Gibraltar’s history that you can tour first-hand is the defenses that the British military used during World War II. Because of its strategic importance between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, Gibraltar was critical for controlling access to the Mediterranean. Winston Churchill knew this and used the artillery at Gibraltar brilliantly during the war.

If you love history, then you won’t want to miss out on seeing the World War II tunnels . There are very few places left in the world where you can see actual artillery and artillery positions used during this important world event. You will be humbled as you learn how Gibraltar played a critical role in the Ally’s defense of Europe. Without a doubt, it is one of the top spots to see when visiting Gibraltar.

The Moorish Castle Complex

If you thought that the natural defenses of the Rock of Gibraltar were only used by the British throughout history, you would be mistaken. In fact, this strategic defensive position has been held, over time, by the Neanderthals, the Moors, the Spanish, and only most recently the British. In fact, some of the most impressive structures that you will find in Gibraltar to this day were created by the Moors.

The Moorish Castle Complex is a fortified set of structures and gates in Gibraltar. Two of the most prominent of these structures are the Gate House and the Tower of Homage. As you tour Gibraltar, it is really hard to miss the Tower of Homage. Thought to have been constructed during the 8th century, it is still an impressive structure to this day.

If you have the time, I recommend making a stop at the Moorish Castle Complex to learn more about this era of Gibraltar’s history. You will be amazed by the incredible craftsmanship of these structures and just how good of a condition they are over a thousand years after being built.

Ocean Village

If you are looking for some nightlife when visiting Gibraltar, then you need to look no further than the incredible Ocean Village . Located just a short walk from the Gibraltar airport and the frontier, this vibrant area includes a wealth of amazing restaurants and bars. Best of all, they all provide breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.

When you are finished with dinner or your nightcap, you can take a leisurely walk on the area’s many cobblestone walkways. At night, these beautiful walkways are illuminated with colorful lights, providing a fun, soothing atmosphere for you to enjoy. So, whether you visit for a top-notch meal, or just stop by for a drink and a stroll, the Ocrean Village is a great spot in Gibraltar to unwind.

How to Get to Gibraltar

If you are traveling to Gibraltar from outside of Spain, the quickest way to get to the city is to fly into Gibraltar International Airport (GIB) , previously known as North Front Airport. This is the civilian airport that services the British overseas territory of Gibraltar. It is the most convenient way to travel to Gibraltar from outside the region.

For those who are visiting Spain and plan to make a stop in Gibraltar, Spain has an extensive rail system and incredible roadways that you can use to get around. However, you should remember that there isn’t a train station in Gibraltar. To get there by train, you will need to take a train to the nearby cities of Algeciras or San Roque-La Linea. You can then take a bus from either of these stations to Gibraltar.

If you are starting to plan your trip and want more information, you are in luck. I have included some key information on how to get to Gibraltar for you to review in my Gibraltar travel guide below. This includes maps of airports in the region and how to travel by train and bus to Gibraltar. In addition, I have also included a table on travel times by train and car to Gibraltar from various cities in Spain for you to review.

Travel Time to Gibraltar by Train and By Car

* Train travel to Gibraltar also requires the use of bus routes

Traveling by Car

If you are planning on renting a car to get around while you are visiting Spain and Gibraltar, there are some things that you will need to know before you arrive. To help you prepare for your trip, I have included some valuable driving tips for visitors in my Gibraltar travel guide below.

with you in the car at all times. For an overview of the required licenses and gear that you will need to have, please see the list I have included below.

Required Equipment for Driving in Spain

Driver’s license and IDP (required)
Insurance documents (required)
Car title or rental documents (required)
Fluorescent jacket for all occupants (required)
Two warning triangles (required)
An extra pair of glasses, if you wear them (required)
Fire extinguisher (recommended)
First-aid kit (recommended)

In addition to the necessary permits and gear, there are also several driving regulations that you will need to be aware of while driving in Spain. These regulations include the following:

Passengers in the front and back seats are required to wear seat belts at all times.

Driving Age

In Spain, you must be 18 years old to drive a car and 21 years old to rent a car. Even if you have a valid driver’s license from the United States, you won’t be able to drive in Spain unless you are 18 years of age or older.

Alcohol Consumption

The legal limit for blood alcohol to drive in Spain is 0.05 percent or 0.25 milligrams per liter in exhaled air. You will want to pay extra care to obey this law as the penalties for drunk driving in Spain are very severe.

Cell Phone Usage

The use of cell phones while driving, unless you are using a hands-free system without headphones, is strictly prohibited. You are also not allowed to use screen-based navigation systems while driving in Spain.

In residential areas, avoid parking next to a yellow line or your vehicle will be towed.

In Spain, leaded gasoline is called Super or Super 68, unleaded gasoline is called “sin plomo 98” or “Eurosuper 95”, and diesel is called “gasoleo”.

Moving Violations and Tickets

Unless you have a residence in Spain, you will likely be asked to pay all fines and tickets immediately upon receipt while visiting Spain.

All children under 10 years of age or less than 4 feet, 5.5 inches (135 centimeters) must ride in a car seat.

Emergencies

Dial 112 from anywhere in Europe to be put in touch with Emergency services.

When driving in Spain, you will want to always be aware of the speed limit, even when you don’t see a posting. As a general rule of thumb, the speed limit for roads in Spain can be summarized as follows (unless marked otherwise):

Speed Limit Guidelines in Spain

Expressways and major highways – 75 miles per hour (120 kilometers per hour)
Other roads – 56 miles per hour (90 kilometers per hour)
Urban areas – 31 miles per hour (50 kilometers per hour)
Residential areas – 15 miles per hour (24 kilometers per hour)

Traveling by Train

If you do not wish to rent a car while visiting Spain and Gibraltar, the other popular mode of transportation with tourists is to use Spain’s incredible rail system. The rail network in Spain, and throughout Europe, is quite extensive, so you can get to most places by train if you want to. If you are thinking about using the rail system, I have included some tips for you to review in my Gibraltar travel guide below.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Please keep in mind that there isn’t a train station at Gibraltar. Instead, you will need to take a train to the nearby cities of Algeciras or San Roque-La Linea. From here, you can catch a short bus ride that will take you to Gibraltar.

Train and Bus Transfers Map for Travel to Gibraltar

Tips for Using the Rail System in Spain

If you plan on taking three or more long train rides while in Spain, then a rail pass is likely to save you money. Otherwise, you are probably better off just buying your train tickets without a rail pass.
The two rail pass options you can purchase are the Spain Eurail Pass (good for use just in Spain) and the Eurail Global Pass (good for use in 33 countries).
Rail passes for Spain cover all travel on trains run by Renfe , Spain’s national railway.
Many train routes require a paid reservation, which must be paid even if you have a rail pass. This is why it may not make sense to purchase a rail pass if you aren’t planning on taking many longer, expensive rides.
Rick Steves has a great article on whether it makes sense for you to get a rail pass for your trip to Spain that I would recommend reviewing.
When purchasing rail tickets, purchasing a round-trip ticket instead of two one-way fares can save you up to 20% of the cost.
Advanced purchase discounts for AVE trains are available about 60 days ahead of departure, so purchasing your tickets well in advance can save you money as well.

Best Times to Visit Gibraltar

One of the most important decisions you must make when planning your trip to Gibraltar is when to visit. Like most places, certain times of year are better than others. To help you decide what time of year to plan your trip, I have included some important annual weather information for you to review in my Gibraltar travel guide below.

Average Temperature (°F)

If you are looking for warm weather when visiting Gibraltar, you will want to target the summer months of June through August. This is where you will find sunny days and high temperatures that can reach into the 90’s. However, the spring and autumn months of April through May and September through October are also usually fairly warm.

During the winter months of December through February, low temperatures can dip into the 50’s. Because you are near the coast, it can get quite chilly when it is windy during this time of year. However, temperatures typically don’t get much colder than that.

Average Precipitation (Inches)

The wettest month of the year in Gibraltar is December, which is typically a fairly wet month. After December, the weather progressively gets drier as winter changes into Spring. The driest months of the year in Gibraltar are the summer months of June through August.

In fact, Gibraltar typically gets very little rain, if any at all, during July. So, if you want to have nice weather when you visit, I suggest avoiding the winter months and targeting a summer visit instead.

Best Months to Visit Gibraltar

While you will find the very best weather in Gibraltar between June and August, this is also the busiest time of year. Because of this, you will likely pay much more for accommodations and tours if you visit during these months.

For that reason, I recommend visiting during the shoulder seasons of April through May and September through October instead. You will still have nice weather but will spend a lot less on accommodations and tours.

Where to Stay in Gibraltar

An important decision you need to make when planning your trip to Gibraltar is where you will stay. When you travel, the accommodations you choose are oftentimes amongst the biggest expenditures for your trip.

So, not only do you need to be comfortable, but you need to be able to afford to stay there. Finding the right accommodations for your trip involves looking at the amenities, the location, and most importantly, the price.

If you are starting to plan your trip to Gibraltar, you may be looking for some hotel and hostel suggestions. I included some great options at different price points in my Gibraltar travel guide below. As always, don’t be afraid to expand your search to room-sharing sites such as Airbnb or VRBO if you aren’t finding a hotel or hostel that meets your needs.

Gibraltar Recommended Hotels and Apartments Map

Where to Eat in Gibraltar

When most people plan a trip, the primary focus is on how to get there, where to stay, and what is on the list of things to see and do. What many travelers neglect to plan, is where to eat when you are there.

Granted, it is sometimes fun to be spontaneous when choosing a restaurant while traveling, and it is always smart to get recommendations when you arrive. However, it can also be advantageous to have some ideas of restaurants you would like to try during your trip written down beforehand as well.

This way you can be assured that you won’t miss out on a highly recommended culinary experience that you will regret. To help you decide on some restaurants in Gibraltar to add to your list, I have included a list of some highly recommended options for you to review in my Gibraltar travel guide below.

Recommended Tours in Gibraltar

There is an abundance of amazing things to see and do in Gibraltar; one of the best ways to experience those things is on a tour. If you are looking for fun tours and excursions to complete your trip, I have included some category links to recommended tours and excursions you can review in my Gibraltar travel guide below.

Gibraltar Photo Gallery

Gibraltar is one of the most unique and incredible travel destinations in Europe. The landscape, the melding of cultures, and the unique encounters with the local “Apes of Gibraltar” make Gibraltar a photographer’s dream. If you would like to see some of the other amazing photos I took while I toured the Rock, I have included a gallery in my Gibraltar travel guide for you to review below.

If you would like to see more of my travel photography, I would also encourage you to give me a follow on Instagram . Putting this blog together to pass on my free guides, itineraries, and travel photography tips is a lot of work and your support in the form of a follow-on Instagram would be so very much appreciated!

Don’t Forget to Subscribe to My Adventures!

Type your email…

Let Me Help You Save On Your Next Adventure!

‘start exploring today’ merchandise available now.

Published by Josh Hewitt

Avid traveler and photographer who loves to see new places, meet new people, and experience new things. There is so much this world can teach us, we just need to explore! View all posts by Josh Hewitt

Unforgettable Experiences: The Top 25 Things to Do in South Africa

How to Safely Take on a Multi-Day Road Trip

Unforgettable Adventures: Top 30 Things to Do in New Zealand

2 comments ›.

Gibraltar is so beautiful, I never thought of visiting this place, your always adorable photography has made Gibraltar even more beautiful, I will plan a Gibraltar tour soon, thank you.

Thank you so much for your kind words!!

Discover more from Wanderlust Travel & Photos

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Subscribe To My Adventures!

Gibraltar Travel Guide – What to see and do in a day

Last updated: 5th February 2022

We’ve been to Gibraltar a few times because of its easy access to Spain’s Costa del Sol and Andalusia. In this Gibraltar travel guide we’ll show you the best attractions and what to see and do in a day.

Table of Contents

About Gibraltar

Gibraltar is a tiny overseas British territory located on the southernmost tip of the Iberian peninsula right next to Spain . The population is just 34,000 where the limited space of 3 square miles means people live in high rise accommodation, it reminded us of our time in Hong Kong .

Gibraltar’s name comes from the Arab general who named it after himself – Gibel Tariq, meaning ‘Tariq’s mountain’. Tariq lead the Islamic conquest of Southern Spain and Gibraltar is where it all began in 711, and remained under Moorish rule for nearly 800 years. In 1462 Spain reconquered Gibraltar, but in 1704 it became under foreign power once again when the British captured the rock. Spain has continued to contest Britain’s 300 year rule of Gibraltar and are still frequently at odds over the waters around Gibraltar and the airport.

Today “Gib” as the locals call it, is one of 14 British overseas territories. It has its own parliament and is self governing, except for defence and foreign policy which are governed by Westminster in London. Gibraltar has a strong military history so there’s plenty of sights and ruins to see plus it’s well known for tax free shopping which many tourists flock here for.

View of Gibraltar on the approach to the airport

Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory

Gibraltar voted overwhelmingly to stay in EU (96%) in 2016’s UK European Union membership referendum

Proud of their Britishness

Gibraltarians are British citizens and they are passionate about their Britishness. Just like us in Blighty they have their own red telephone boxes, Royal Mail letter boxes, shop at Marks & Sparks, eat fish and chips and enjoy a pint in one of the many pubs. They also have their own sterling currency – you can spend your British pounds here, but you can’t use Gib pound notes back in Britain.

Gibraltarians are passionate about their Britishness

British road signs and traffic lights in Gibraltar

The Britishness did strike us as a little odd and out of place when you first see a UK traffic light or familiar road signs translated in Spanish and Arabic or venues advertising a traditional Sunday roast dinner or pints and paella – all in the hot sunshine!? However unlike the UK you don’t drive on the left and Gibraltar uses the same time zone as Spain .

Gibraltar Attractions – What to see and do in a day

Apes, caves & tunnels.

All the main sightseeing attractions are on ‘The Rock’ – these are: The apes at the Top Station, Upper Rock Nature Reserve, Skywalk, Apes Den, St. Michaels Cave and the Great Siege Tunnels. We started by taking the cable car located on Red Sands Road to the top and then walked all the way back down, spending around 3 hours in total exploring all the sights, it’s not difficult.

Top of The Rock

Standing 426 metres tall and dominating Gib’s skyline is the landmark, ‘The Rock’ – one huge piece of limestone! The short cable car ride to the Top Station has epic views and is the highest summit where you can see in all directions. To the South are tankers in the Strait of Gibraltar – one of the busiest shipping lanes in the Mediterranean, with the neighbouring continent of Africa in the distance. To the East is the Costa del Sol where you can make out Marbella whilst looking North you can see Southern Spain and the immediate neighbouring Spanish town of La Linea.

Phil and Garth top of the rock

Looking down onto Gibraltar

The view South over the Strait of Gibraltar to Morocco

View from top of the Rock looking North towards Spain

Gibraltar’s Famous Barbary Macaques

Barbary Macaques are The Rock’s famous residents and there’s estimated to be 230 of them. They might look like monkeys but they are actually tailless apes and they will attack you if you have food! So heed the signs, which warn you to not mock them or they will retaliate and bite. If you are caught feeding them expect to pay a fine between £500-£4,000.

Gibraltar’s famous residents – Barbary macaques

The cute looking barbary macaques

A mother and son

They do look very cute but don’t let their sweet faces deceive you, they’re wild animals after all. The Rock is one big playground for the apes, we found it fascinating watching them groom each other and stalk tourists who they think may be carrying food in their bags! They’re intelligent and mischievious.

St. Michaels Cave

From the summit, we walked down to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, which takes about 20 minutes and toured St. Michaels Cave, once home to the earliest inhabitants and thought to have attracted visitors since Roman times. In days gone by people believed it was from the cave that Gibraltar was linked underground to Africa.

St. Michaels Cave, nicknamed “Cathedral Cave”

This natural grotto is stunning with stalagmites and stalactites formed by rainwater of millions of years, they resemble pipes of a cathedral organ. The Cave also served as a hospital during World War 2, today it’s used for theatre and concerts. On our tour Garth thought it was a bit tacky lit up in garish colours and preferred it when the lights stayed white to see the natural colours. It’s also quite wet inside as we wandered so watch your step .

Upper Apes Den

More apes at the Upper Apes Den

Next it was down to the Upper Apes Den, where there was plenty of monkey business going on as the apes harassed passing cars and people! Legend says if the apes disappear from Gibraltar then the whole place will cease to be British, which is why Winston Churchill ordered replacements from North Africa!

Walking Gibraltar’s Nature Reserve

Other Upper Rock Attractions

Skywalk – Former military lookout point now a glass walkway.
Windsor Suspension Bridge – 75 metre suspension bridge.

The Great Siege Tunnels

From the Apes Den is another 30-minute walk down the road to the Great Siege Tunnels. This labyrinth of tunnels was manually carved out with sledgehammers and gunpowder blasts by 13 men to create openings for guns on the Rock’s North face. The Great Siege of Gibraltar took place during 1779 to 1783 when the British were defending against Spanish and French armies recapturing Gibraltar.

Entrance of the Great Siege Tunnels

View to Gibraltar below

St. Georges Hall array of guns

Miles of disused tunnels

Across the Rock there’s also miles of more underground tunnels over 50 miles to be exact. Most are off-limits to the public but you can hire a guide for the ones that were used during World War Two where the British Army prepared for an invasion by Germany.

11th Century Moorish Castle

Continuing our way down the Rock, about halfway are the remains of the Moorish Castle built in the 11th century. Most of Southern Spain was conquered by the Moors, who ruled for over 7 centuries. Gibraltar was once a walled city with mosques, palaces and baths it was called Medina Al Fath, “City of Victory” The tower is the only part of the original Moorish castle that remains today.

When the British captured Gibraltar in 1704, the Union Flag was raised on the castle’s tower and has remained ever since. Today the keep is still used as a temporary prison.

The medieval fortification of the Moorish Castle

A barbary macaque sunning himself next to the castle

Walking down from top of the rock past residential homes

Garth on the steps of Devils Steps

By now our legs were burning with all the walking, but we were nearly at ground level and found ourselves amongst the residential hillside homes and streets. Looking like a street from Northern Ireland there’s a Union flag painted on a staircase on Devils Gap Road just behind the City Library.

Gibraltar’s Airplane Crossing

When you first arrive into Gibraltar you can’t help notice the main road into the city as it crosses the airport’s runway! Just like a railway crossing the road closes frequently for planes to take off or land. When the barriers are up you have to drive or walk across it quickly! However if you do get stuck at the crossing lights it’s really cool place to watch the planes take off as you’re so close.

The runway was built during the second world war and is still owned by the Ministry of Defence much to Spain’s annoyance. It’s even been voted one of the world’s most scariest airports to land due to the steep bank pilots have to make and the very short runway, we certainly felt the pilot slam on the brakes as soon as we touched down.

The runway of Gibraltar Airport

The main road into Gibraltar crosses the runway

Casemates Square & Main Street

Just before the main shopping street is the cafe culture square of Casemates the site of the British Army’s original barracks. Some of the buildings around the square was where ammunition was stored. The square also hosted public executions the 1860s.

The cafe culture of Casemates Square

Main Street, Gibraltar

Tax free shops of Main Street

Cheap booze and fags for sale on Main Street

A few steps from Casemates is Main Street, a pedestrianised shopping street with a mix of pubs, electronics stores, British high street stores like Debenhams and Marks & Sparks and is heaven for tax-free shopping. Many Brits make a special booze run to Gibraltar from the nearby Costa Del Sol as booze and fags are much cheaper here than in Spain .

Don’t forget to look up at the colonial architecture

The Georgian building of The Covent – the official residence of the Governor of Gibraltar

Bustling Main Street Gibraltar

Eat & Drink in Irish Town

Irish Town runs parallel to Main Street and is the place to grab a full English breakfast or fish and chips. We liked Sacarellos located in an old merchant warehouse it’s Gib’s oldest coffee shop and serves up great deli style food and nice cakes!

We also looked for ‘Calentita’ Gibraltar’s national dish. It’s like a yorkshire pudding pancake made from chickpeas. We tried a couple of bakeries but had no joy, maybe you’ll have better luck the we did.

Another nice place to eat is down on the marina with English staple restaurant chains like Wagamama and Pizza Express, they have a lovely setting right on the water.

Sacarellos in Irish Town for deli food and coffee

Gib’s glamorous area at the Marina

Gibraltar’s Beaches

Despite the rugged coastline there are a total of six beaches in Gibraltar, mostly man-made. Eastern Beach is the largest and most popular because it receives sunshine for most of the day. Whilst Sandy Bay has very few tourists, probably because parking is an issue and during the day it gets partially cast into shade by the Rock.

Sandy Bay beach

Southernmost Tip – Europa Point

In Gib you can drive to the southernmost tip of Europe (according to locals) Europa Point. This is where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean. Europa Point’s lighthouse is another great place for a view across to Africa, which is only 15.5 miles away. The lighthouse is 49 metres tall and dates back to 1841 and is the only British lighthouse outside of the United Kingdom . If you’ve not got a car you can get here on the Number 2 bus from the town centre. Oh and sorry Gibraltarians, Tarifa in neighbouring Spain is the actual Southernmost tip of Europe.

Europa Point lighthouse the southernmost point of Gibraltar

The Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim mosque at Europa Point

Also at Europa Point is the Catholic church, The Shrine of Our Lady and the Ibrahim-Al-Ibrahim mosque, donated by the Saudi King in 1997 which serves 4% of Gib’s population. Interestingly how there’s a complete mix of religions side by side where everyone lives in harmony from mosques, synagogues, churches to a cathedral there’s even a Hindu temple. Gibraltar also has a big Jewish community and is a popular with Jewish travellers observing Shabbat.

Other Gibraltar Attractions

100 Ton Gun – A Victorian supergun built into the rock, the only other remaining gun is in Malta.
Great Synagogue – Dating back to 1793 this synagogue is one of the oldest on the Iberian peninsula.
Botanical Gardens – A hidden gem of green space near the cable car station.

Final thoughts

In Jerry Springer style our final thoughts – We think Gibraltar is like a more upmarket Benidorm – full of wealthy expats enjoying their pints and paella. There’s plenty of tea and old-fashioned English food so Gibraltar feels familiar, we really liked it – a little slice of Britain in the sunshine plus it’s easy to see in a day. The only issue we experienced was the lengthy delays driving back to Spain , the Spanish customs queue can be very long and must be a constant source of frustration for Spaniards who work in Gib who have to do this daily.

Gibraltar Practical Information & Useful Advice

Phil and Garth in Gibraltar

Phil and Garth’s Top 5 Gibraltar Tips

Tip #1 : Believe us when we say put away plastic carrier bags when entering areas with apes.
Tip #2 : Don’t show your teeth or pull faces to apes – it’s a sign of aggression.
Tip #3 : Got more time? Take a day trip to Tangier in Morocco from nearby Tarifa in Spain.
Tip #4 : If you are driving, leave plenty of time to get through customs into Spain, there can be a long wait in your car.
Tip #5 : Book a seat on the right-hand side of the airplane (sat looking forward) for best views as you land.

Gibraltar FAQ

What is Gibraltar’s airport code ? GIB – Gibraltar International Airport.
What time zone is Gibraltar? GMT +1 hour. Central European Standard Time.
What currency is used in Gibraltar? Gibraltar Pound (symbol: £) English pound sterling is also accepted, but Gibraltar notes cannot be used in the UK.
What language is spoke in Gibraltar? English.
What is the population of Gibraltar? 34,003.
What number should I call in an emergency? Call 199 from landlines or 112 from mobiles.
What plug type is used in Gibraltar? Plug type G. Voltage is 240V / 50Hz .
When is the best time to visit Gibraltar? March to May and August to September has pleasant weather when it’s not too hot.
When is the worst time to visit Gibraltar? December to February is cold.
What is Gibraltar famous for? The Rock, barbary macaques, duty free shopping and online gaming industry.
What is the history of Gibraltar? In 1713 Gibraltar was ceded to Britain under the Treaty of Utrecht.
What are the 5 must see sights in Gibraltar? Top of The Rock, St. Michaels Cave, Upper Apes Den, Casemates Square and Europa Point.
What is Gibraltar’s local dish called? Calentita is the national dish of Gibraltar.
What is the best way to get around Gibraltar? It’s possible to walk around the main sights of Gibraltar.
What’s a fun fact about Gibraltar? John Lennon and Yoko Ono got married in Gibraltar.
What movies have been filmed in Gibraltar? The Running Man (1967), 007 You Only Live Twice (1967) and 007 The Living Daylights (1987) were filmed in Gibraltar.
Where is the best photo spot in Gibraltar? Top of the rock.
Where is a hidden gem in Gibraltar? Botanical Gardens.
What’s the best souvenir to buy in Gibraltar? A stick of Gibraltar rock – the hard boiled sweet.

How We Did It

We booked bargain flights with Easyjet during their sale, they have direct flights to Gibraltar from the UK.
The cable car ride costs £20.25 per person and includes entrance to the Nature Reserve, Skywalk, Cave and Siege Tunnels.
Hired a car from Autos Aguirre SL and picked it up on the Spanish side of the border in La Linea.
We stayed in a villa in nearby Sotogrande in Spain and drove to Gibraltar, once you get through immigration park at the Ocean Village Public Car Park near the Marina. Alternatively you can park on the Spanish side in La Linea, and simply walk down Winston Churchill Avenue to Gibraltar’s border control.

Pin our Gibraltar Travel Guide for later

25 Fun Things to do in Gibraltar: 3 Day Itinerary

By Author Paulina

Posted on Published: May 26, 2020 - Last updated: January 10, 2024

Looking for things to do in Gibraltar, Spain? We got you covered! Find a selection with the best attractions in Gibraltar, Southern Spain. Whether you are looking for day trips to Gibraltar, part of Great Britain, or hotels in Gibraltar, restaurants in Gibraltar, or the funny apes of Gibraltar, Spain... this is the complete 3-day Gibraltar itinerary with the best dolphin watching operators. #gibraltar #gibraltarspain #spain #southernspain #gibraltarphotography #andalucia #gibraltartours

A travel guide to the best attractions in Gibraltar, Southern Spain: the perfect Gibraltar Itinerary

Looking for fun things to do in Gibraltar ? Gibraltar calls, and it’s impossible to resist!

Imagine standing at the top of the rock of Gibraltar, with the continents of Europe and Africa in your gaze, seeing wild monkeys and learning about British military history.

Here are 25 fun things to do in Gibraltar and a 3 day Gibraltar itinerary that will inspire you whether you’re visiting Gibraltar on a day trip or even more than 3 days.

image 1 - 25 Fun Things to do in Gibraltar: 3 Day Itinerary

Pssst…!!?? You can’t get enough of Gibraltar? Have a look at my other posts:

What to do in Gibraltar
M alaga to Gibraltar

Introducing Gibraltar

Perfect as a jumping-off point for exploring Andalucia, Gibraltar is a little slice of Great Britain with the bonus of near-endless sunshine.

Guarding the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea, Gibraltar’s strategic location has been fought over by European powers for hundreds of years.

Captured by an Anglo-Dutch fleet during the War of the Spanish Succession (1701-1714) Gibraltar was given to Britain by Spain under the terms of the Treaty of Utrecht in 1713.

Now under British rule, the first thing the conquering power did was to reinforce its fortifications and absorb the local population into the British way of life.

Today Gibraltar is unique in a way that you don’t expect. Firstly everyone speaks English and Spanish so you won’t have any problem communicating and they use the pound sterling just like back in the United Kingdom.

Gibraltar does not charge V.A.T. so shopping on the Rock of Gibraltar will allow you to pick up a few bargains to take back home. Getting to Gibraltar is easy too with regularly scheduled low-cost flights from the UK .

You, dear reader, support this blog. If you purchase through a link, we earn a small commission. As an Amazon Affiliate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Top Things To Do In Gibraltar, Andalucia – Our Gibraltar Itinerary For 3 days

Visit the Rock
Have your photo taken with a monkey

Visit Europa Point

Visit the Mosque
Winsor suspension bridge
Explore the historic centre

Useful Travel Information About Gibraltar

✈ Book cheap flights to Gibraltar with Skyscanner ⚘ Avoid tourist traps and get the customizable “ Southern Spain Like a Local ” itinerary. – Get it here ✔ Book tours in Gibraltar with GetYourGuide ➳ Find the best hotels in Gibraltar with Trivago ❖ Rent a car at the best rates with Discover Cars ✎ Never leave without travel insurance ! I get mine at HeyMondo . It is easy to set up, cheap and reliable. $ Withdraw money without hidden fees and avoid exchange charges with TransferWise (Free Mastercard debit card to spend money abroad)

Day 1 – Gibraltar One Day Itinerary

Whether you’re looking at things to do on a day trip to Gibraltar or you want to see the major sights on the first day of your Gibraltar trip, here’s what we recommend doing.

Visit Gibraltar Rock – An Essential Part of Any Gibraltar Itinerary

things to do in Gibraltar, Gibraltar Rock

No trip to Gibraltar is complete unless you visit the top of the Rock which is one of the top places to visit in Gibraltar. The rock is designated a Nature Reserve.

Tickets to visit the Upper Rock Nature Reserve include the Apes’ Den , St Michael’s Cave, and O’Hara’s Battery on the rock’s summit.

You can learn all about the Rock’s strategic location in the Military Heritage Centre before experiencing the Great Siege Tunnels.

Hewn from solid Rock to help troops move about while under attack from Spanish and French forces the tunnels are a testament to the British military’s most prolonged ever siege.

You can also visit tunnels built during the Second World War and learn about the plans for the invasion of North Africa.

Please note that WWII is a separate ticket that you need to buy on top of your Upper Rock Nature Reserve. If you have a head for heights, be sure to walk across the 340m-high Skywalk. – Book guided tours here

Opening times: Mon-Sun 09:00 – 18:15 last entry 19.45

Take pictures with the Apes of Gibraltar

Gibraltar itinerary, Take pictures with the Apes

Regarded as being one of Gibraltar’s most famous tourist attractions, the Barbary Macaques that inhabit the Rock are native to North Africa and are believed to have arrived during the early days of the British garrison.

Several legends surround why a wild monkey population lives on the Rock with one saying that if they should ever disappear, it would mark the end of British rule.

With this in mind as their numbers depleted during the Second World War, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill imported Barbary Macaques from Morocco.

There is a lot of concern that tourism and interactions with humans have harmed the barbary apes who now associate humans with food.

Having your photograph taken with the animals is simple, but remember not to make any sudden moves and always remember that they are wild animals that are willing to scratch and bite you.

Accessed by Europa Road, the Europa Point is on the south tip of the Rock. It is home to a Catholic church, a mosque, Europa Point Lighthouse, and a military gun emplacement that was capable of sinking any vessel entering the Strait of Gibraltar.

On a clear day, you can see the Rif Mountains in Morocco.

Visit the Mosque in Gibraltar

Gibraltar travel guide, Visit the Mosque

Following the Reconquista and the expulsion of the Moors from Spain, the Catholic Monarchs decreed that Gibraltar must strip itself of all reminders of the Muslim faith.

While many buildings were razed to the ground, 700 years of Moorish rule could not be erased entirely with reminders remaining to this day.

Sitting on top of Europa Point the Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque is the most southerly mosque in Europe and was a gift to Gibraltar and its people from King Fahd Al-Saud of Saudi Arabia.

Costing around £5 million to build the mosque took over two years to construct and is now one of the most visited attractions in Gibraltar.

Opening times: Mon-Sun 11:00 – 15:00

Admission: Free

Explore the historic centre of Gibraltar

Gibraltar travel itinerary, Explore the historic centre

Protected by the Gibraltar Heritage Trust the historic centre of Gibraltar was mostly destroyed during the Great Siege of Gibraltar when from 1779 to 1783 the town was bombarded by sea from a combined Spanish and French fleet.

Today, the historic centre is one of the best things to do in Gibraltar. Tthe main pedestrianized thoroughfare called “Main Street “is home to various shops similar to those found on any British high street.

Running parallel to Main Street is Irish Town, an area that got its name from Irish immigrant women who were sent to Gibraltar to provide female company for the troops stationed on the Rock.

The streets’ most prominent building is a Victorian police station that was used by the Gibraltar police up until 1984.

In order to visit all the hidden gems of Gibraltar, I recommend booking a guided tour . – Check tours & reviews here

Lunch in Jury’s Café and Wine Bar

Located on Main Street Jury’s Café & Wine Bar is always buzzing with tourists and locals, and while you would expect the prices to match the location, it is surprisingly inexpensive.

For lunch, at Jury’s, you will find an extensive menu that includes fish and meat dishes along with a variety of salad, sandwich, and burger options.

Jury’s offers choice of more than 40 wines and champagnes from around the world along with popular beers that include John Smith’s extra smooth ale on draught.

Address: 275 Main Street, next to the courts.

Opening times: 08:00 to 22:00 every day

Visit St.Michael’s Cave

Located around a 25-minute walk down St. Michaels road from the top cable car station, St. Michael’s Cave is one of the most popular Gibraltar attractions.

The cave is a natural wonder full of stalagmites and stalactites.

Legend has it that from the cave there is a secret path beneath the sea to Africa. Today the cave is a venue for concerts and other events.

A three-hour tour of the lower cave is available for £25, but not recommended for children under the age of 10. – Skip the line and book tickets here

Opening times: 09:30 – 18:45 every day.

Admission: Admission is included in the price of the Upper Rock Nature reserve ticket price.

Gibraltar Cable Car

With it no longer being possible to drive up to the top of the Rock, the best way to get there is by cable car.

The base station from where you take the cable car is located alongside the Alameda Gardens at the bottom of Main Street.

The journey to reach the top of the Rock at 412m (1351.71ft) takes six minutes. From here you are treated to a spectacular view of the Spanish coast and the Rif Mountains in Morocco.

Explore the Moorish castle

Dominated by The Tower of Homage, Gibraltar’s Moorish castle has a sketchy early history following its destruction when the Christians re-conquered the city of Gibraltar from 1309 and 1333.

The castle has been attacked many times and has had its inner courtyard used as a prison up until 2010. Well worth a visit if only to learn about the armies that fought to control its strategic vantage point.

Opening times:

Monday: 14:30 – 22:30

Tuesday to Sunday: 12:00 – 22:30

Admission: The admission price is included in the Upper Rock Nature reserve ticket. – Book tickets here

Learn about history in Gibraltar museum

Founded by Governor of Gibraltar General Sir Alexander Godley in 1930, the Gibraltar National Museum is home to a wide array of unique collections and items portraying the Rock’s history and culture.

Highlights include artifacts from the Great Siege a collection of model ships and planes and various other archaeological finds dating back to the Phoenicians and Greeks.

Opening times: Mon-Fri 10:00 – 18:00 Sat 10:00 – 14:00 Sunday closed

Admission: Adults £5.00 children £2.50

Have a sundowner cocktail in Ocean Village, Gibraltar

Gibraltar travel itinerary, Have a sundowner cocktail in Ocean Village

Set in a mixed-use residential complex and marina, Ocean Village Gibraltar, Costa Del Sol offers 20 exciting oceanfront restaurants and bars with sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea.

At night recessed colored spotlights light up the cobblestone streets giving it a relaxing ambiance between the sea and the Rock.

At Ocean Village, there is something for everyone from sports bars to romantic dining, making this tiny corner of Gibraltar the perfect place for a sundowner.

Enjoy tapas in Gibraltar

Gibraltar might seem like a tiny slice of Britain that has been towed to the gateway of the Mediterranean, yet remains influenced by its nearest neighbor

Union Jacks proudly fly but when it comes to food Gibraltar has a Spanish taste about it. Tapas might be typical of Andalucia, but they are firmly entrenched in the Gibraltarian culture as well.

Everyone loves an enjoyable tapas tour and the place to go for a night of tiny bites of tasty food are:

Jury’s Cafe & Wine Bar
Vinopolis Gastrobar
D’Bellota Gibraltar
Little Bay Indian Tapas Bar & Restaurant
La Bodeguiya

Read about the best Spanish Tapas here or discover amazing Spanish vegetarian tapas here.

Here’s what you could do when visiting Gibraltar for two days.

Have a morning walk on the Alameda: Gibraltar Botanic Gardens

Gibraltar itinerary, Have a morning walk on th Botanic Gardens

Commissioned by the British Governor of Gibraltar General George Don in 1816 to provide a green space for soldiers to enjoy, the Gibraltar Botanical Gardens are a beautiful place to escape from the sun.

Spread out over six hectares (15 acres) the gardens have interconnecting paths and several monuments including one of George Augustus Eliott the commander of the British troops during the Great Siege.

The gardens also contain the largest area of open freshwater on the Rock in the form of a lake filled with Koi Carp and exotic lilies. The park is located near the lower cable car station and is open from 08:00 -21:00.

Explore Gibraltar’s Nature Reserve

Originally named the Upper Rock Nature Reserve the Gibraltar Nature Reserve was established in 1993 to protect an area of land no longer used by the British military.

The primary purpose of the Nature Reserve is to provide a habitat for wild animals and the many bird species that stopover in the area during their annual migrations.

The reserve also helps look after the Rocks major tourist attractions which include St. Michael’s Cave, O’Hara’s Battery, and the Great Siege Tunnels which play a big part in British military history.

Tip: To avoid the crowds and the scorching sun plan your visit for when they open first thing in the morning.

Opening times: 09:30-19:15

Admission: £12 for adults and £7 for children aged 5-12 – Book tickets in advance here

Visit the Cathedral St Mary the Crowned

Built on the site of a former mosque, parts of the Cathedral of St. Mary the Crowned Roman Catholic church date back to 1462.

For almost four years during the Great Siege, the church is considerably smaller than it was before the Spanish and French forces nearly destroyed it.

Rome elevated the church to the status of a cathedral in 1926 along with its own Bishop. The temple is located on Main Street and provides an oasis of calm.

Opening time: Mon-Fri: 07:00 – 19:00 Sat-Sun 08:30 – 19:00

Lunch in Sacarello’s Cafe-Restaurant

Located in Irishtown in what used to be a wealthy merchant’s house, Sacarello ‘s offers a comprehensive homemade lunch menu that includes popular English, Italian and Spanish dishes.

Sacarello’s menu also includes five specials of the day, which change three times per week.

Address: 57 Irish Town, Gibraltar

Opening hours:

Mon-Friday 08:30-19:30

Sat 09:00-15:00

Wander in Irish town

The name, Irish Town is somewhat confusing as it is, in fact, a pedestrianized street that runs parallel to Main Street. How the road came to be called Irish Town can be attributed to two things.

One says it was where an Irish regiment was barracked while another says it got the name due to its brothels and seedy taverns. The most notable building in Irish Town is the old Victoria police station that opened in 1864.

Get dizzy at the Windsor Suspension Bridge

Gibraltar itinerary, the Windsor Suspension Bridge

Opened in 2016 the Windsor Suspension Bridge is a 71 meter (233ft) narrow foot traffic only bridge located in the Gibraltar Nature Reserve.

As a part of the Royal Anglian Way footpath, the bridge offers spectacular views of Gibraltar and the sea.

Dinner in El Faro Gibraltar

Despite not having a sea view as it is located a street in from the marina El Faro is recognized as being one of the best seafood restaurants in Gibraltar.

The staff at El Faro are courteous without being overbearing, and the dishes served up by the kitchen could be some of the best Spanish food you have ever eaten.

Tip: Order the freshly caught Sea bream as it is delicious!

Be inspired by these Spanish food facts we wrote earlier.

Day trip to Morocco from Gibraltar

colorful spice in Moroccocolorful spice in Morocco

While in Gibraltar don’t miss the chance to pop over to the Moroccan city of Tangiers where you will find a bustling place with narrow alleyways, cafes, and bazaars.

While there is one ferry from Gibraltar to Tangier, it is mostly for Moroccan workers. What you will need to do is take a bus to Tarifa and catch the fast ferry to Tangiers from the port. You can view more things to do in Tarifa here.

The journey time to Morocco takes around 35 minutes with all customs formalities carried out onboard the ship.

Tip: Buy your a guided tour and avoid the long queue in the port. – Check tours here

Day Trip to Ronda from Gibraltar

Gibraltar travel itinerary, Day Trip to Ronda

The best way to visit Ronda from Gibraltar is to take a scenic 1h 20m rail journey from Algeciras . Built straddling a massive gap in the mountains carved out by the Río Guadalevín , the Puente Nuevo (new bridge) connects the old town with the new.

Ronda has a rich history that dates back to pre-Roman times and is credited with being the birthplace of modern bullfighting. Today, visiting Ronda is one of the best things to do in Andalucia . Earnest Hemingway adored Ronda as did Hollywood actor Orson Wells whose ashes are buried in the town.

In order to make the most of your time, I recommend booking a guided tour. – Check rates here

Day Trip to Estepona and Casares

things to do in Gibraltar, Day Trip to Estepona

Called the “Marmalade Run,” a day trip from Gibraltar to the beautiful white hilltop village of Casares will take you through miles of orange and lemon groves.

After you have explored Casares it’s time to head down to the coast and visit the picturesque port of Estepona, a unique town that has managed to keep its pueblo charm despite the Costa del Sols building boom of the 60s and 70s.

Tip: While it is possible to visit Estepona and Casares by bus from Algeciras , you would be better off hiring a car or organizing an excursion with a private tour operator.

You should really check out our 3 day itinerary Estepona we wrote earlier.

Do a Dolphin Safari

If you want something to do and need an excuse to get out on the sea, take a dolphin safari from the harbor. Despite the Strait of Gibraltar is one of the worlds’ busiest shipping lanes dolphins and other marine mammals thrive.

The dolphins around Gibraltar only swim a couple of miles from the coast and include short-beaked, common, and striped species. During the summer it is possible to glimpse bottlenose dolphins and several species of migrating whales.

There are plenty of operators, but in order to get the best price, we recommend booking your Safari tour in advance, hassle-free. – Check dolphin watching tours here

Before getting into the accommodation in Gibraltar, be sure to check out these 2 other posts we wrote on the things to do in Cadiz and the 3-day itinerary Seville .

Best Hotels in Gibraltar, Southern Spain

When it comes to where to stay, Gibraltar has limited options with just 700 hotel rooms available. In our list below we have given three options but have not included hostels or Airbnb. During the summer months, accommodation can be hard to find, making it best to book early.

Sunborn Gibraltar ***** – Luxury

Located on Gibraltar’s stylish Ocean Village, the Sunborn Gibraltar is a mega yacht that was designed as a hotel and is the only 5-star hotel in Gibraltar.

While staying at the Sunborn guests enjoy large rooms with king-size beds and luxurious marble bathrooms.

The hotel features a spa, gym, and an infinity pool along with two restaurants and a casino. Rooms are available from £200 per night. – Check rates here

Rock Hotel **** – Mid-Range

For a city center close to everything, the Rock Hotel is an art deco treasure that oozes old-fashioned charm.

Perched on the side of a hill above Europa Road the Rock Hotel offers unrestricted views out over the atlantic ocean. Rooms start at £95 per night with breakfast included. – Check rates & reviews here

Bristol Hotel *** – Budget

Gibraltar travel itinerary, Bristol Hotel

Located a 2-minute walk from Main Street, the Bristol Hotel is the oldest Hotel on the Rock and features 60 rooms with a swimming pool and subtropical gardens.

While we list the hotel as our budget pick rooms are relatively expensive, starting at £98 per night, which is however a standard rate in Gibraltar. – Check rates & reviews here

Getting Around Gibraltar

The best way to get around in Gibraltar is to use public buses. Gibraltar has just nine bus routes that will take you to all the Rocks’ main attractions.

Day bus passes make it inexpensive, and once you figure out what bus goes where it is a breeze. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from Gibraltar airport or three of the Rocks taxi ranks.

How to get to Gibraltar

If you are driving to Gibraltar from Spain, you will need to have a valid passport. The land border crossing is open around the clock every day of the week with no limit on how many times crossings you want to make.

By bus: Spain has an extensive bus network meaning that you can get to Gibraltar from anywhere in Andalucia. All buses for Gibraltar take you to La Linea de la Concepción , a Spanish town just across the border from Gibraltar. – Buy bus tickets here

From there you walk across the frontier into the British Overseas Territory. Again make sure you have a valid passport to show the police at the border.

By train: Getting to Gibraltar by train is a little time consuming but can be done. The closest train station to Gibraltar is located in the Spanish city of Algeciras just over 20 kilometers from Gibraltar. – Buy train tickets here

When arriving at Algeciras station, you need to cross over the road to the bus station and buy a ticket for La Línea de la Concepción and then walk across the border into Gibraltar.

Buses between La Linea and Gibraltar run every ten minutes so you will never have long to wait in Algeciras .

How to Get to Gibraltar from UK

Although Gibraltar is a British overseas territory, it’s 2,143km away.

By Train: The train from London to Gibraltar takes over 20 hours, and there is no direct service. You would need to get the Eurostar to Paris Gare Du Nord, transfer to Paris Gare De Lyon, then get a train into Spain to Barcelona-Sants. You would then need to get the train to Málaga before catching a short train to Gibraltar. Get your train tickets here .

Flight: Flights to Gibraltar from the UK are the best option. You can fly direct from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Bristol and Manchester. Book your flight here .

Another option is to fly to Malaga, which is a 1 hour 25m drive or a 2-hour bus via Estepona with Avanzbus. Get your bus tickets here

How to get from Malaga to Gibraltar:

There is a direct bus from Malaga Bus Station to La Línea de la Concepción that departs Malaga every four hours and has a journey time of 2h 15m. – Buy tickets here

Read our step by step guide on how to get from Malaga to Gibraltar here.

How to get from Seville to Gibraltar:

The best way to get to Gibraltar from Seville is by bus to Algeciras and then transfer to the bus for La Linea. Buses depart Seville every couple of hours with a journey time of 3hr 45m including transfer time. – Get tickets here

How to get from Cadiz to Gibraltar:

Buses from Cadiz to Gibraltar depart every couple of hours to Algeciras where you transfer to La Linea. Buses to La Linea are every ten minutes which means if you catch a fast bus to Algeciras you have a journey time of around 2h 20m. – Book tickets here

How to get from Marbella to Gibraltar:

There is a direct bus between Marbella and La Linea departing every four hours operated by ALSA with a journey time of 1h 15m. – Get tickets here

How to get from Estepona to Gibraltar:

There is a direct bus between Estepona and La Linea that departs every four hours with a journey time of 1h 30m. – Book tickets here

How to Get from Madrid to Gibraltar

The best way to get from Madrid to Gibraltar is to drive. The drive will take around 6h 37m.

To travel from Madrid to Gibraltar by train, change at Malaga for Estación La Línea. On some routes, you will also need to change at Córdoba Train Station. Get your train tickets here .

You can also fly from Madrid to Malaga or Jerez and get a taxi or catch a bus from there. Book your flight here and Book tickets for the bus here

Attractions of Gibraltar Map

gibraltar map - 25 Fun Things to do in Gibraltar: 3 Day Itinerary

A short FAQ about Things to do in Gibraltar, Spain

What are things to do in gibraltar at night.

Have a traditional dinner in El Faro is a great things to do in Gibraltar at night.

What are things to do in Gibraltar for free?

Visiting the Cathedral St. Mary the Crowned and the Mosque of Gibraltar are free things to do in Gibraltar.

What are things to do in Gibraltar with toddlers?

Explore Gibraltar’s Nature Reserve is a great idea when looking for things to do in Gibraltar with kids.

What is the currency in Gibraltar?

Gibraltar uses the Gibraltar Pound (GIP) as its official currency. The Gibraltar Pound is pegged to the British Pound Sterling (GBP) at par. British Pounds Sterling (GBP) are widely accepted in Gibraltar. However, it’s worth noting that while you can spend GBP in Gibraltar, Gibraltar Pounds are not always readily accepted in the UK.

What is Gibraltar best known for?

Gibraltar is primarily known for the Rock of Gibraltar. It’s also famous for its Barbary macaques, which are the only wild monkeys in Europe, and its status as a British Overseas Territory.

Does Gibraltar have a beach?

Yes, Gibraltar has several beaches. The most popular ones include Eastern Beach, Catalan Bay, and Sandy Bay.

Can you drive up the rock of Gibraltar?

Yes, it is possible to drive up the Rock of Gibraltar. However, it’s best to travel on the cablecar due to the crowds and parking issues.

Do you need a passport to go to Gibraltar from the UK?

Yes, a valid passport is required for travel from the UK to Gibraltar. Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory but is not part of the UK.

things to do in gibraltar spain 4 - 25 Fun Things to do in Gibraltar: 3 Day Itinerary

Hola, I’m Paulina! Together with my team, we are passionate about Southern Spain. Here we share all you need to know for great times in Southern Spain with the best places to visit, stay and, of course, the best food to eat.

Let’s dive in and explore Southern Spain’s outdoors, food and culture con pasión!

How to Spend the Best 2 Days in Gibraltar

Whether you’re entering Gibraltar on one of the world’s shortest runways or you’re making your way across the border on foot or by car, this small but intriguing country is sure to impress you. Even if you’ve been here before, there are plenty of things to see in Gibraltar that appeal to a wide variety of interests. Spending 2 days in Gibraltar is a good amount of time to see the main attractions and some hidden gems. You don’t need to carve out a lot of time to spend in Gibraltar, so don’t worry.

This popular Overseas British Territory shares a border with a small Spanish town called La Linea de la Concepcion in the Province of Cadiz . If you’re wondering where to stay in Gibraltar, it may be a better option to stay over the border in La Lanea as prices are significantly cheaper. I stayed at the AC Hotel by Marriott which was only a short walk to the border with free street parking available.

Gibraltar may be small, but it has a rich history that you can explore both within the old town and throughout the Rock of Gibraltar. The origins of inhabitants in Gibraltar can be traced back over 100 000 years ago. Due to its strategic position it’s seen its fair share of sieges and battles between different peoples over the past few centuries. If you only have enough time in your schedule to spend 2 days in Gibraltar you should be able to see most of the attractions.

Day 1: Exploring Gibraltar's old town

Day 2: The Upper Rock Nature Reserve

Where to eat in gibraltar, how many days should you spend in gibraltar, day 1: exploring gibraltar’s old town.

For those of you only spending one day in Gibraltar, it’s very common to join a guided tour of the Rock of Gibraltar so you can see as much as possible in a short amount of time. However, the old town itself is equally worth visiting, especially if you’re spending 2 days in Gibraltar. This is why I would suggest spending your first day in Gibraltar exploring the area below the Rock before you’re too tired to move. If you have some spare time, the Gibraltar Botanic Gardens are easily accessible by bus outside of the old town.

Grand Casemates Square

Main square in old town during 2 days in Gibraltar.

One of the first places to go in Gibraltar is Grand Casemates Square. This is a popular square in Gibraltar and is where you can find a lot of restaurants and places to grab a drink. You can also get a great view of the Rock from here.

One of my favourite spots in Grand Casemates Square is a juice bar called Get Joost which is a must-visit on a hot day. The square itself gets its name from a Spanish word meaning “fortified position” and it’s been used as a place for boat repairs, public executions, and a military parade ground. This is a great spot to start your 2 days in Gibraltar at.

American War Memorial

Arched war memorial at the top of steps.

The American War Memorial, also called the Naval Monument at Gibraltar, was built in 1933 to commemorate the alliance between the US and the UK during World War I. In 1998 a bronze plaque was also unveiled here to commemorate the World War II allied invasion of North Africa. It’s a beautiful monument to visit and it isn’t too far from Grand Casemates Square so it’s easy to add to your 2 days in Gibraltar itinerary.

There are plenty of places to explore in Gibraltar, but one of the most popular and lively is an area known as Irish Town. This street is one of the oldest in Gibraltar and today it’s home to a number of bars that are busy both day and night. If you’re looking for somewhere to get a drink and relax for a bit then there are lots of great options here.

St Mary the Crowned Cathedral

Located in the very centre of Gibraltar, along one of the main shopping streets, is St Mary the Crowned Cathedral. This cathedral was built on the site of a mosque and originates from the 15th century. Part of the length of the cathedral was shortened following the Great Siege of the 18th century however, to allow the street to run parallel to it. It was eventually given cathedral status in 1926 and is a must-see during 2 days in Gibraltar.

Gibraltar National Museum

Small museum about the history of Gibraltar.

Not far from the cathedral is the Gibraltar National Museum , which is often missed by tourists as it’s tucked away down a side street. It’s a very interesting museum to visit where you can learn more about the culture, history and natural history of Gibraltar, all housed within a historic building. Entry is only £5.00 so it’s certainly worth visiting if you’re spending 2 days in Gibraltar or more.

Sacred Heart Church

A short walk out of the town centre, slightly uphill, will land you at the impressive Sacred Heart Church. It’s located in the upper part of the old town and dates back to the 19th century. If you’re walking up to the Nature Reserve then you may pass this as it sits along one of the main routes. It has a slight resemblance to Notre Dame in Paris, with a nice courtyard where you can sit and rest for a few moments.

Union Jack Steps

Outdoor steps painted in Union Jack colours.

Less than 5 minutes from Sacred Heart Church is the Devil’s Gap Road, which you’ll need to walk up to get to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. Along this road is a very popular photo spot in Gibraltar, known as the Union Jack Steps. They were originally painted in 1967 following the outcome of the country’s first referendum and since then they’ve been lovingly preserved. It’s one of the lesser known Gibraltar tourist attractions and shouldn’t be too busy whatever time of the day you choose to visit.

Europa Point

Europa Point is a must-visit if you’re spending 2 days in Gibraltar. This area is known as the southernmost tip of Europe, and is home to the Gibraltar Trinity Lighthouse which dates back to 1841. The famous Pillars of Hercules are located nearby too, within the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, which will take a bit of time to walk to. This point of interest in Gibraltar isn’t near any of the other attractions in the Nature Reserve so I would recommend seeing both Europa Point and the Pillars of Hercules together.

Ocean Village

Harbour in Gibraltar with sailing boats.

If you’re looking for places to eat in Gibraltar, there are a lot of options within Ocean Village . This marina is very lively during the day and evening, with eateries, casinos, bars, and many expensive yachts on show. This isn’t a place you should come if you want to eat at local restaurants, but it does have all of the big British names like Las Iguanas and Pizza Express. If you’re spending 2 days in Gibraltar this is also a nice area to take a casual stroll around.

There’s probably a lot more to see in Gibraltar’s old town and the surrounding neighbourhoods than you originally thought. Many of the attractions are either close to one another or easily accessible by bus so you should have no issues seeing everything in a day. Your second day in Gibraltar is all about the Upper Rock Nature Reserve .

There are a few different ways to explore the Nature Reserve during your 2 days in Gibraltar, depending on your preference. I chose to walk the entire thing, but you can book a guided tour which will take you up in a private vehicle. Or you can purchase tickets for the cable car which will take you up and down the rock. If you plan on walking make sure you have very comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, lots of water, and some willpower!

Tickets for the Gibraltar Nature Reserve cost £16 per person and will give you access to all of the sites in the reserve. The ticket is valid for 24 hours so you can come and go as you please while spending 2 days in Gibraltar. You can either book your pass online or purchase them in person.

Moorish Castle

The iconic Moorish Castle in Gibraltar sits just inside one of the entrances to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. The current remains of the castle date back to the 14th century, with the main feature being the Tower of Homage. The top of the tower offers incredible views of Gibraltar’s old town, the marinas, as well as the airport. It’s a unique spot to watch the planes land on one of the world’s smallest runways too.

This was one of my favourite places to visit during my 2 days in Gibraltar, but a lot of visitors choose to skip it since it’s not near the more popular sites on the Nature Reserve.

World War II Tunnels

A very short walk from the Moorish Castle will bring you to the WWII Tunnels. These tunnels offer a fascinating insight into how important Gibraltar was from a strategic standpoint for the allies. It’s an enormous complex built into the rock which was constructed to act as a shield from any potential hostilities from the Spanish mainland. On a hot day you’ll be very happy to spend some time in these tunnels to cool down.

City Under Siege Exhibition

Exhibition with mannequins in Gibraltar.

The City Under Siege Exhibition is often bypassed by tourists who want to make their way to the more popular attractions in the Nature Reserve. However, it’s a very unique outdoor museum to visit, housed around original buildings from the capture of Gibraltar in 1704. That would make them the first buildings constructed by the British!

The exhibition teaches visitors about this period in Gibraltar’s history and the hard times the inhabitants went through during the siege. It’s a must-see while spending 2 days in Gibraltar for anyone interested in history.

Great Siege Tunnels

One of the top things to do in Gibraltar is to take a walk through the Great Siege Tunnels. These tunnels are slightly different from the WWII Tunnels, because they were built much earlier in the 18th century. The tunnels are known for being the most impressive defence system created by man, and really are incredible to walk around.

They’re set up like a museum, with information boards in different rooms as well as lifelike mannequins set up to make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. People who are only spending 2 days in Gibraltar often flock to see this attraction in the Nature Reserve – it’s that popular.

Saint Michael’s Cave

Out of all of the caves in Gibraltar, Saint Michael’s Cave is by far the most visited and most easily accessible for tourists. This limestone cave network is jaw dropping, with a beautiful light and sound show taking place regularly in the large auditorium.

There’s evidence to suggest that this cave complex would have been used as early as 40 000 BC thanks to skulls and cave drawings that have been recently found. The entrance to the cave has a restaurant and shop attached to it so it’s a good place to stock up on water – just watch out for the monkeys!

Cable cars going up a hill in Gibraltar.

If you don’t think you have enough time during your 2 days in Gibraltar to walk up the entirety of the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, there’s a very handy cable car, with a base station next to Alameda Gardens, that will take you right up to the top. From here there are various viewpoints and you can take advantage of the Skywalk. There are a lot of monkeys hanging around at the top station, so be careful with your belongings.

The cable car costs £34 which includes entry into the Nature Reserve and a return trip. This is the same price as purchasing the cable car return ticket and Nature Reserve entry separately.

Charles V Wall

One of my favourite Gibraltar attractions is the Charles V Wall. The view from the top of the steps is incredible, but it’s quite a trek! The wall dates back to the 16th century during the reign of Charles V and it built to defend the city from pirate attacks. I’ve walked up this wall twice and each time it’s been lined with monkeys either sitting on the steps or on top of the wall. Most of the time the monkeys are tame, but as soon as they get agitated you need to make a run for it because it’s not a pretty picture!

The Apes Den

The Apes Den is located next to the wall, at the cable car’s middle station. The station isn’t open between April and October so to access this part of the Nature Reserve you’ll either have to walk down from the top station or visit it as you walk up the hill on foot. As you can imagine this is where you’ll find a lot of the apes in Gibraltar, so if you’re brave enough to go make sure you’re cautious and don’t leave anything hanging that they can grab.

Mediterranean Steps and O’Hara’s Battery

If you’re into hiking then you’re going to love the Mediterranean Steps. It takes about an hour and a half to walk the entire route, and it’s considered a moderately challenging hike so wear proper running shoes. The path runs along the eastern side of the rock with beautiful views across the Strait. You’ll come across some old fortifications along the route too.

If you start at the bottom of the trail you’ll end up near O’Hara’s Battery at the summit of the Nature Reserve. It was unfortunately closed for restoration purposes during my 2 days in Gibraltar, but maybe you’ll have better luck when you visit.

Windsor Suspension Bridge

Suspension bridge crossing rocks in Gibraltar.

Even if heights aren’t for you, you’ll want to make sure you don’t miss the Windsor Suspension Bridge during your 2 days in Gibraltar. It was officially opened in 2016 and is a big draw for thrill seekers. It forms part of a hiking trail that’s proving to be very popular with tourists, and it offers visitors a unique spot to look down on Gibraltar from. Crossing the bridge is one of the best things to do in Gibraltar, and you won’t find any monkeys hanging around either.

Pillars of Hercules

If you didn’t manage to visit the Pillars of Hercules while visiting Europa Point, maybe you have enough time to see it at the end of your 2 days in Gibraltar. I wouldn’t say that this is a must-visit in Gibraltar, but it’s a unique spot in the Nature Reserve with an interesting background story. This was the ancient name given to the Strait of Gibraltar and it has some mythology tied to it which is worth reading up on. The columns mark one of the entrances to the Nature Reserve and will only take 5 minutes to visit.

Hustle n’ Flow

One of the best places in Gibraltar for brunch is Hustle n’ Flow. This is a healthy restaurant in Gibraltar’s business district with a lot of great dishes and drinks, including freshly blended smoothies. The prices are reasonable compared to other restaurants closer to the main tourist areas, and there are some tasty vegetarian and vegan options available too. If you’re feeling hungry I would recommend a burger or the Brexit Mess – their spin on a full English breakfast. Eating here is a great way to start off your 2 days in Gibraltar.

If you follow my schedule then you will have a very busy 2 days in Gibraltar. It’s really the only way to see everything with such a limited amount of time. It would be better to spend 3 days in Gibraltar so you can spend more than a few hours in the Nature Reserve, but it’s not necessary. In my opinion, the best way to see Gibraltar is on foot, but you may need to take some public transportation to speed things up. I don’t recommend driving to Gibraltar as it can be expensive to park and only authorized vehicles are allowed in the Nature Reserve anyways.

If you’re wondering when the best time to visit Gibraltar is, I would recommend September or October when there are less tourists and the temperature is a little cooler (it’s still hot though). Gibraltar is a very small British overseas territory but there’s a lot to see..

If you have any questions about spending 2 days in Gibraltar or would like some clarification about some of the main attractions in Gibraltar, please leave me a message below or send me an email. You can also follow me on Instagram and get in touch with me there .

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission from the discount codes used or when a link/ad is clicked. All purchases made will come at no extra cost to you, and I only include products and services that I would personally recommend.

Pin this blog post for later!

View from Gibraltar rock and suspension bridge.

X (Twitter)

Previous post.

Boardwalk leading to town centre of Conil.

No comments yet. Why don’t you start the discussion?

Why Tiny Gibraltar Is Worth Visiting (And How You Can See Its Resident Monkeys)

Your changes have been saved

Email is sent

Email has already been sent

Please verify your email address.

You’ve reached your account maximum for followed topics.

10 Scenic, But Underrated Mountain Towns That Are Great Alternatives To Aspen

12 top travel destinations in the us for 2024, 10 charming small towns in new york's catskills.

Gibraltar is strange - on so many accounts. Today Gibraltar is a self-governing overseas territory of the United Kingdom and has been British since way back in 1704 (the Spanish conceded it and recognized it as British later in 1713). This is a rock - or distinctive mountainous peninsular on the extreme southern coast of Spain. It overlooks the all-important straits leading into the Mediterranean Sea . You can easily see Morocco and North Africa from Gibraltar. Today this tiny little territory is home to around 32,000 people, and the town is densely packed, so much so that a significant amount of it is built on reclaimed land.

The population is palpably British and wishes to remain so. While it is in fact a peninsula the locals colloquially call it an "island" perhaps picking up on how they do not feel to be part of Spain. It may be small, but it is packed with things to see and do.

Fast Facts About Gibraltar

Status: British Overseas Territory
Population: 32,000 People
Length: Approx. 3 Miles
Width: Approx. 1 Mile
Highest Elevation: 1,398 FT
Currency: Gibraltar Pound (Or Just Use British Pounds 1-1)

The first strange thing that will greet you upon entering Gibraltar is the airport runway/road. If you are coming in from Spain then to get to Gibraltar you must walk or drive across the runway! Likewise, if you are flying into Gibraltar, they need to close the only access road and clear the runway before you can land! This is a place where every inch of land is accounted for!

The next thing to greet you is just how dominating the "Rock" or the mountain is. Almost everything is located on the western slope of the "Rock" while it falls off dramatically into the sea on the other eastern side. This territory really is tiny, like only about 3 miles long and 1 mile wide - and much of it is uninhabitable mountainside!

Gibraltar has spent most of its life in British hands as a fort guarding the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea. And it has had this role for around 300 years. The "Rock" is a network of tunnels and gun emplacements to protect the "Island" from the Spanish and most recently the Nazi Germans. The Nazis always wanted to take Gibraltar and pressured the Spanish to enter World War Two so that they could take it. But this all never happened (BTW the locals just call it the "Rock" so we will too from here).

Related: 10 Of The Safest Cities In The UK

The military tunnels and cannon emplacements are some of Gibraltar's main tourist attractions today. Another being the Barbary macaque monkeys - which we will get back to!

If you visit Gibraltar be sure to visit the tunnels. These have been built over the course of 200 years and in an area only 3 miles long it boasts around 34 miles of tunnels. That is near twice the Rock's road network! These tunnels have been built to accommodate 16,000 men with all their supplies to withstand a prolonged siege. The greatest expansion of these tunnels happened during World War 2. Today most of the tunnels have been turned over to the civilian government and many are open to the public to see and explore. Some are too dangerous and so remain sealed off.

The Gibraltar Tunnels

Distance Of Tunnels: 34 Miles

Length Of Guided Tours: 30-40 minutes

Days Open To Tourists: Monday to Sunday

Opening Times: 9.30-19.15 (last tour starts at 18.15)

It is often said that the British will leave when the Macaque Monkeys leave. There are around 240 Macaques on the island and they are the only wild monkeys in Europe. They are one of the great icons of Gibraltar. To see them, you need to climb up the Rock (there's a cable car if you don't feel like climbing). One word of caution though, they are used to being fed from bags. So if you are wearing a backpack it means food to them. And they are not shy. Turn your back and they will be jumping onto your back trying to get into your backpack. They are harmless but it's common to see tourists running and screaming in startled fright!

Related: The U.K. is Home to Some Unusual Things, Indulge in These on Your Next Trip

Gibraltese Macaque Monkeys

Population: Approx. 240

Native Habitat: Morocco

Conservation Status: Endangered And Declining

Date Introduced: Before British Occupation In 1704

Shopping And Casinos In Gibraltar

In the town center, you will find some old-fashioned shopping streets. These streets are very similar to the town centers in England. The town does not feel Spanish at all and the shops and the merchandise is mostly British goods.

Over in the new part of the town on the reclaimed land we can find the new part of the city. Here we find the larger more modern hotels and casinos all huddled around the harbor. The main casino in Gibraltar is the Casino Admiral Gibraltar. The other casino is on the luxury Sunborn superyacht.

Casinos In Gibraltar

On Land: Casino Admiral Gibraltar
In The Harbor: Sunborn Superyacht

There are numerous hotels to stay at around the Rock. Location isn't so much of an important concern as the Rock is only 3 miles long. But you can choose more between an old hotel or guesthouse in the old part of the town, a modern hotel in the new reclaimed part of the Rock, or on a superyacht in the harbor. If you have the budget, consider staying at the Sunborn superyacht.

In short, Gibraltar is one of those strange and quirky places in Europe that really does deserve a visit! It is beautiful, has plenty to see and do, and is steeped in history.

Next: 10 Of The UK’s Least Visited Cities You Should Travel To

Destinations

Accessibility
None Grayscale Inverted Colors Without Blue Without Green
None Links Titles Just text
Default Black on White Yellow on Black Green on Black White on Black

All Attractions
Gibraltar Nature Reserve
Upcoming Events
Submit Your Event
Restaurants, Cafes & Bars
Gibraltar Visitor Guides
What to See and Do Booklets
Gibraltar Map
All Hotels & Hostels
Hotel Grading
How to get here
Hopper Ticket
Gibraltar Pass
1 Day in Gibraltar
2 Days in Gibraltar
3 Days in Gibraltar
5 Days in Gibraltar
7 Days in Gibraltar
A Historical Walk Through Town
Walk through the Alameda Botanic Gardens
A Post Box Walk
Haunted Gibraltar
Gibraltar For Families
Irish Town Tour
Gibraltar's Street Signs
Crossing the Runway

Things to see and do in Gibraltar

Explore popular gibraltar experiences.

See what other visitors like to do

All Experiences (135)

Popular experiences

Nature Reserve, Upper Rock

Mon-Sun 09:30-19:15

St. Michael's Cave

Mon-Sun 09:30-19:00

Included in Nature Reserve Fee

Ocean Village / Marina Bay

Outside City Walls

World War II Tunnels

Mon-Sun 09:00-18:15

Apes' Den / Barbary Macaques

The gibraltar natural history museum.

South District

Mon-Fri 10:00-18:00, Sat 10:00-14:00

Dolphin Watching & Boat Trips

The Bay of Gibraltar

Europa Point & Lighthouse

Nelson's anchorage - 100 ton gun, the moorish castle, the great siege tunnels, all experiences, alameda botanic gardens tours, alameda wildlife conservation park.

Inside City Walls

Tue-Sat 10:00-16:30, Mon 10:00-16:00

American War Memorial

An upper rock walking tour - walk gibraltar.

Mon, Wed, Fri-Sat 01:00-17:00

Anglican Cathedral of the Holy Trinity

Mon-Fri 09:30-19:00, Sun 07:45-19:00

Aviantours Health & Wellness Tours

Barbary partridge, bedenham memorial, birdwatching, blackwatch memorial, british war memorial, calypso tours, camp bay & little bay, campion park, casemates square.

Mon-Sun 10:00-05:00

Catalan Bay

East Side, Beaches

Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned

Mon-Fri 07:00-19:00, Sat-Sun 08:30-19:00

Charles V Wall

Chatham counterguard, church of our lady of sorrows.

Mon-Sun 09:30-13:00

City Centre shopping

City under siege, commonwealth park, cross of sacrifice.

North District

Devil's Tongue Battery

Dive gibraltar, diving in gibraltar.

Mon-Sat 09:00-18:00

Sign up for special travel offers, competitions and updates:

Marketing permissions.

Gibraltar Tourist Board will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and travel offers. You can change your mind at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link in the footer of any email you receive from us, or by contacting us at [email protected] or +350 200 74950. By clicking below, you agree that we may process your information in accordance with these terms.We use Mailchimp as our marketing platform. By clicking below to subscribe, you acknowledge that your information will be transferred to Mailchimp for processing. Learn more about Mailchimp's privacy practices.

Back to Main Menu

What to see and Do Booklets
General Information
Driving & Parking
Customs & Visas
Information Offices and Opening Times
Nightlife on the Rock
Public Holidays
Public Toilets
Stamps & Coins
Tour Operators
Gibraltar Travel Agents
Guided Walking Tours
Public Buses
Routes 5 & 10 (Frontier buses)
Gibraltar for MICE
Summary of all Venues
Incentive Ideas
DMCs & Services
Did you know
Pre-History - 1540
1914 - Present Day
Gibraltar Heritage Trust
Upper Rock Attractions
Shop Mobility Centre
Accessibility at Hotels
Other Accessibility Information
BSL QR Codes
11 Wheelchair Accessible Things to Do in Gibraltar
Thinking Green
Nautilus Project
Underwater Camera
Brand Guidelines
Photo Gallery
Virtual Tours

Get your personal Gibraltar travel guide

Download the smartguide app now to get started..

Gibraltar PASS

One day pass, £54.90, £49.90, £ 0.00.

Buy with Confidence - Get Refund if Pass not used*

Over 20 Included Attractions :

View All Included Attractions

St Michael’s Cave
Barbary Apes
The Nature Reserve
The Moorish Castle
Europa Point
Great Siege Tunnels
Return Bus tickets

Over 100 Exclusive Discounts & Freebies :

View All Discounts & Freebies

Free Water Bottle
Free Glass of Wine
Free Souvenir
Free guide book with map
20% discount on Dolphin Tours
Discounts on Hotel Bookings
Save hundreds of Pounds!

See how it works

Getting and using The Gibraltar Pass tickets is easy—you’ll love it!

Purchase online and receive mobile tickets. You can start your adventure right away or within 3 months of purchase.

Scan your pass at participating attractions, restaurants and retailers to enjoy your benefits to the max!

You’ll see the best attractions, and you’ll save time and money.

Your Visit to the Top of The Rock, Made Simple!

To help you use your GibraltarPass to the max, so you can see and do as much as possible on the Rock of Gibraltar in one day, we have created two suggested itineraries, one with the Gibraltar cable-car and one with a guided minibus Rock Tour. Plan your visit to ensure you do not miss out on anything that Gibraltar has to offer!

Purchase with assurance. Eligible for a full refund if the Pass goes unused — review our Terms & Conditions .

Quick Links

How it Works?
Plan Your Visit
Gibraltar cable car
Moorish Castle
The SkyWalk

Stay Connected

Website design by Jonathan Costa

Included Attractions
Discounts & Special Offers

IMAGES

Gibraltar
12 Amazing Things to Do in Gibraltar
Top Attractions in Gibraltar
Top places to visit Gibraltar
15 Things To Do In Gibraltar
Visit Gibraltar: Best of Gibraltar, Europe Travel 2022

VIDEO

How to visit GIBRALTAR in 2023
Gibraltar National Day 2023 Experience
Med Steps Gibraltar
deepwatersolo and bouldering in gibraltar
Marbella-Tarifa-Gibraltar driving in Spain 🇪🇸
Discover Gibraltar: Tiny Nation with World Power

COMMENTS

14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Gibraltar
The town of Gibraltar itself lies on the west side of the Rock. For such a small country — it only covers an area of four square kilometers — Gibraltar certainly has more than its fair share of tourist attractions and famous sights. Plan your sightseeing adventures with our list of the best attractions and top things to do in Gibraltar.
Things to Do in Gibraltar, Europe
1. The Rock of Gibraltar. 7,629. Points of Interest & Landmarks. Cave exploration site with striking rock formations and mood lighting, home to local monkeys and providing panoramic views, alongside WWII tunnels rich in history. See ways to experience (48) 2024. 2.
Things To Do In Gibraltar
The Lighthouse at Europa Point. Europa Point. Of the three attractions of Europa Point, the one which is most often visited and most frequently commented on, in fact one of the most well known of all the attractions of Gibraltar, is ...
Visit Gibraltar
Marketing Permissions. Gibraltar Tourist Board will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and travel offers. You can change your mind at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link in the footer of any email you receive from us, or by contacting us at [email protected] or +350 200 74950.
Must-Visit Attractions in Gibraltar
Apes. One of the unique experiences to be enjoyed in Gibraltar is visiting its famous Barbary macaques - the only wild monkeys living in Europe. Most of the 230-odd strong population live at the top of the 400m (1,312ft) Rock and can be reached by cable car, but these cheeky and curious residents have been seen all over the upper parts of the ...
Must-see attractions Gibraltar, Mediterranean Europe
Discover the best attractions in Gibraltar including Gibraltar Museum, Upper Rock Nature Reserve, and Trafalgar Cemetery.
The Best Things to Do in Gibraltar (Itinerary Included)
3. Contemplate the Sacred Heart Church. Visiting the Sacred Heart Church is one of the unusual things to do in Gibraltar. A hidden gem in Gibraltar is the Sacred Heart Church located in the upper part of the old town. This Gothic church from 1878 has beautiful architecture that can be seen on its facade.
Things to do in Gibraltar: Hotels, restaurants and sightseeing tips
While the old town could be mistaken for that of a nearby Spanish town, Gibraltar also has three marinas. There's Ocean Village and Marina Bay, with the flashy nightclub, late-night casino and the Sunborn, supposedly the world's first five-star superyacht hotel, and Queensway Quay - a more considered and relaxing spot where you can find Casa Pepe, a traditional restaurant offering Spanish ...
Top 10 Attractions
Buy tickets for Gibraltar's top attractions including: Skywalk, St Michaels Cave, Great Siege Tunnels, WW II Tunnels, cable car, apes + more. Hit enter to search or ESC to close ... Thought to be bottomless and first mentioned in the writings of Roman travel writer Pomponius Melia in 45CE, St Michael's has seen millions of visitors since then ...
12 Amazing Things to Do in Gibraltar
How Much Time Do You Need for Exploring Gibraltar. BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR. [1] Ride the Funicular to the Top of the Rock. [2] Visit the Nature Reserve Atop the Rock of Gibraltar. [3] Enjoy the Gibraltar Monkeys. [4] Climb the Mediterranean Steps. [5] Visit the Skywalk. [6] Step Inside St. Michael's Cave.
The Ultimate Gibraltar Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Gibraltar is the Great Siege Tunnels. This incredible tunnel system is entirely man-made, which will blow your mind when you see it. They were carved out by the British Merchant Marines to defend Gibraltar from the French and Spanish during the Great Siege of 1779 to 1783.
THE 10 BEST Tourist Spots in Gibraltar 2024 (with Photos)
2024. 1. The Rock of Gibraltar. 7,629. Points of Interest & Landmarks. Cave exploration site with striking rock formations and mood lighting, home to local monkeys and providing panoramic views, alongside WWII tunnels rich in history. See ways to experience (48) 2024. 2.
What To Do In Gibraltar In 2024: 16 Best Activities
10. Do not miss the Apes Den. For animal lovers, there's only one answer to what to do in Gibraltar, and that's to visit the Apes Den. Home to the only Barbary macaque monkeys in Europe, this unique attraction is world-famous. It's believed these monkeys were imported to Gibraltar in the British garrison's early days.
THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Gibraltar (2024)
1. The Rock of Gibraltar. 7,628. Points of Interest & Landmarks. Cave exploration site with striking rock formations and mood lighting, home to local monkeys and providing panoramic views, alongside WWII tunnels rich in history. See ways to experience (48) 2024. 2.
Gibraltar Travel Guide
Other Gibraltar Attractions. 100 Ton Gun - A Victorian supergun built into the rock, the only other remaining gun is in Malta. Great Synagogue - Dating back to 1793 this synagogue is one of the oldest on the Iberian peninsula. Botanical Gardens - A hidden gem of green space near the cable car station.
25 Fun Things to do in Gibraltar: 3 Day Itinerary
Located around a 25-minute walk down St. Michaels road from the top cable car station, St. Michael's Cave is one of the most popular Gibraltar attractions. The cave is a natural wonder full of stalagmites and stalactites. Legend has it that from the cave there is a secret path beneath the sea to Africa.
Visit Gibraltar
Official Gibraltar Tourist Board website everything you need to know to plan your visit to Gibraltar.
How to Spend the Best 2 Days in Gibraltar
It's one of the lesser known Gibraltar tourist attractions and shouldn't be too busy whatever time of the day you choose to visit. Europa Point. Europa Point is a must-visit if you're spending 2 days in Gibraltar. This area is known as the southernmost tip of Europe, and is home to the Gibraltar Trinity Lighthouse which dates back to 1841.
Visit Gibraltar
Gibraltar Tourist Board will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and travel offers. You can change your mind at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link in the footer of any email you receive from us, or by contacting us at [email protected] or +350 200 74950.
Why Tiny Gibraltar Is Worth Visiting (And How You Can See ...
The military tunnels and cannon emplacements are some of Gibraltar's main tourist attractions today. Another being the Barbary macaque monkeys - which we will get back to! If you visit Gibraltar be sure to visit the tunnels. These have been built over the course of 200 years and in an area only 3 miles long it boasts around 34 miles of tunnels.
Things to do
Gibraltar Tourist Board will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and travel offers. You can change your mind at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link in the footer of any email you receive from us, or by contacting us at [email protected] or +350 200 74950.
Gibraltar's Top Tourist attractions
The Gibraltar Pass is your key to access Gibraltar's top attractions with impressive savings and exclusive special offers. Discover the iconic Rock. Enjoy the breath-taking vistas. Encounter the famous apes and travel through over 1000 years of...
10-Day Itinerary in Spain: Capture the Essence of Spain!
You'll travel by train and rental car, and sleep in 4 different spots. All the logistics are detailed below. ... GIP 38 (USD 50) for the return cable car ride and entrance to The Rock nature reserve with all its attractions; The massive Rock of Gibraltar and me . When entering Gibraltar from Spain, you need to cross the border, so have ...

14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Gibraltar

Head to Europa Point

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More on Spain

Although small, Gibraltar is home to many fascinating attractions. From the 56km (35mi) of tunnels that weave through its Rock and its famous Barbary apes, to a quirky old town and the dolphins that swim in its waters, here are the top 20 things to see and do in Gibraltar.

Great Siege Tunnels

Gibraltar Museum

The Convent

Become a Culture Tripper!

Europa Point

Ocean Village

Second World War Tunnels

St Michael's Cave

Gibraltar's Nature Reserve

Mediterranean Steps

Holy Trinity Cathedral

Cathedral St Mary the Crowned

Tower of Homage

The Gatehouse

Windsor Suspension Bridge

Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque

Must-see attractions in Gibraltar

More destinations you need to see

The Best Things to Do in Gibraltar (Itinerary Included)

The Ultimate Guide to Things to Do in Gibraltar

Book a tour

Things to do in Gibraltar

2. Explore the Top of the Rock and Upper Nature Reserve

3. Contemplate the Sacred Heart Church

4. Spend the day at Catalan Bay

5. Wander Gibraltar Main Street

6. Take a photo at Devils Gap Road

7. Visit the Alameda Botanic Gardens

8. Go to Ibrahim-Al-Ibrahim Mosque

Day trips from Gibraltar

Best hotels in Gibraltar

The Eliott Hotel (4-star)

Holiday Inn Express Gibraltar (3-star)

Recommended 3 days Gibraltar itinerary

Day 1 in Gibraltar

Day 2 in Gibraltar

Day 3 in Gibraltar

Frequently asked questions about visiting Gibraltar

Is Gibraltar worth visiting?

Are there things to do in Gibraltar in winter?

Is Gibraltar good for families?

Read other travel guides

An insider's guide to Gibraltar: Where to stay and what to do

Things to do in Gibraltar

THE BEST GIBRALTAR BEACHES

THE GIBRALTAR LANDMARKS TO SEE

GIBRALTAR LANGUAGE

WHERE TO STAY

Octopus House

Gibraltar entry requirements

Gibraltar weather

GETTING AROUND

HOW TO GET HERE

ST. MICHAEL’S CAVE

TOP 10 ATTRACTIONS

ST MICHAEL’S CAVE

PRINCESS CAROLINE’S BATTERY

MOORISH CASTLE

THIS AMAZING, NATURAL, PHENOMENON HAS THOUSANDS OF VISITORS A YEAR WANDERING THROUGH ITS HUGE CAVERN.

If you are looking for a thrill and a great photo opportunity, do not miss out on the Windsor Suspension Bridge.

The Rock’s formidable highpoint and protector of the Strait still topped by a WWII Gun.

THE ENTRANCE TO THE NATURE RESERVE IS THE PLACE TO START, IF YOU FEEL LIKE A WALK AROUND THE SOUTHERN AND EASTERN SIDE OF GIBRALTAR. THE VIEWS ARE FANTASTIC, BUT IT IS NOT FOR THE FAINT HEARTED!

There are various footpaths within the Nature Reserve which allow you to explore the Upper Rock at your pace, surrounded by Nature and History.

PUT YOURSELF IN THE SHOES OF SOLDIERS MORE THAN 200 YEARS AGO AND EXPERIENCE THE SIEGE TUNNELS NEAR ENOUGH AS THEY WERE WHEN THEY WERE FIRST DUG OUT USING JUST SPADES, CHISELS, HAMMERS AND BLASTING POWDER.

SEE WHERE CHURCHILL AND EISENHOWER SAT, THOUGHT UP AND PLANNED OPERATION TORCH – THE INVASION OF NORTH AFRICA.

A GREAT VIEWPOINT WITHOUT THE NEED TO CLIMB TO THE SIEGE TUNNELS AND FROM WHERE YOU CAN CLEARLY SEE THE RUNWAY AND THE FRONTIER.

Really a ‘Tower of Homage’ this ancient building is still one of the most recognised features of the rock with the union flag flying proudly above it.

BARBARY APES

The Cable Car

OTHER ATTRACTIONS

QUICK CONTACT

12 Amazing Things to Do in Gibraltar

A Brief History of Gibraltar

2. Many celebrities were married or spent their honeymoon in Gibraltar

BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR