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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.

See also: Where to Stay in Gibraltar

1. Head to Europa Point

2. see the apes of gibraltar, 3. visit the upper rock nature reserve, 4. ride the gibraltar cable car, 5. see the views from o'hara's battery atop the rock of gibraltar, 6. the mediterranean steps, 7. dolphin watching, 8. st. michael's cave, 9. gibraltar skywalk & windsor suspension bridge, 10. the moorish castle, 11. main street and casemates square, 12. the gibraltar national museum, 13. the great siege tunnels, 14. 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.

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Viva España : If you didn't begin your journey in Spain, you're going to want to take advantage of Gibraltar's proximity to popular Spanish tourist destinations within an easy drive. Topping your list should be the attractive seaport of Cádiz , a must-visit for its magnificent Costa de la Luz beaches, as well as its great shopping and entertainment opportunities.

To the east and long the coast is the famous Spanish town of Marbella , the classiest of the Costa del Sol beach resorts, featuring high-end hotels, luxury golf courses, and private tennis clubs. Head north from here, and you're in the hills of Andalusia and the famous white villages of southern Spain. The best known of these is Rhonda, famous for its location straddling a deep gorge and its lovely architecture.

Marvelous Morocco : Thanks to its location on the Strait of Gibraltar, it's relatively easy to get across to the African mainland via ferry. If you're up for the adventure, head to the Moroccan city of Tangier , popular for its historic medina area, with its winding lanes and interesting street markets and vendors.

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Plan Your Trip to Gibraltar: Best of Gibraltar Tourism

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Gibraltar Is Great For

Historical tours.

Whale Watching

The great outdoors

Cultural Tours

Eat & drink

• The Eliott Hotel
• Sunborn Gibraltar
• Rock Hotel Gibraltar
• Holiday Inn Express Gibraltar, An IHG Hotel
• Bristol Hotel
• Rendezvous Chargrill
• Curry and Sushi
• The Clipper
• Moniques Bistro & Cafe
• Roy's Cod Place
• The Rock of Gibraltar
• St. Michael's Cave
• Gibraltar Cable Car
• The Great Siege Tunnels
• Main Street
• Gibraltar Rock Guided Tour
• Upper Rock Walking Tour
• EBike-Gibraltar: Rock To The Top Tour
• Full-Day Tangier, Morocco Tour from Gibraltar
• Gibraltar Rock Tour with WWII Tunnels

25 Fun Things to do in Gibraltar: 3 Day Itinerary

By Author Paulina

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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!

The Best Things to Do in Gibraltar (Itinerary Included)

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.

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 like 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.

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

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 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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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 things to do in Gibraltar on this list?

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

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

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Travel Writer

Hola, I’m Cristina, the founder and writer of My Little World of Travelling. I was born and raised in Malaga (Costa del Sol), and I’m passionate about showing you my hometown and other beautiful Andalusian destinations. I help 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.

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

By Richard Lee Massey

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.

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 .

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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

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• 1.1 History
• 1.2 GibraltarPass
• 3.1 Entry requirements
• 3.2 By plane
• 3.5 By boat
• 3.6 By train
• 4.1 On foot
• 7.2 Shopping
• 8.1 Eating kosher
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 9.3 Splurge
• 11.2 Internet
• 12.1 Barbary macaques
• 13.1 Medical treatment
• 14.1 Consulates

Gibraltar , colloquially known as The Rock or Gib , is an overseas territory of the United Kingdom at the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea. It is bordered by Spain to the north; Morocco is a short distance across the strait to the south. Gibraltar has a population of 34,000 as of 2020.

Gibraltar is a unique place for the curious: a British community on the Iberian Peninsula , separated by a narrow gap of sea from Africa . The historic military legacy has created a veritable labyrinth inside "the Rock", with many secret internal roads and tunnels worth exploring. It is also worth climbing the Rock for its views and famous monkeys; the only extant population of wild non-human primates in Europe.

In Greek mythology Gibraltar was Calpe, one of the Pillars of Hercules, which marked the edge of the Mediterranean and the known world. In 711 Tariq ibn Ziyad, the Muslim governor of Tangier , landed at Gibraltar to launch the Islamic invasion of the Iberian Peninsula . The Rock took his name, Jabal Tariq (Mountain of Tariq), which eventually became Gibraltar .

Strategically important for international shipping, Gibraltar was ceded to Great Britain by Spain in the 1713 Treaty of Utrecht and was formally declared a British colony in 1830. Despite it having been British longer than it was Spanish, Spain still claims sovereignty over the territory; however, Gibraltarians consider themselves British with no apparent interest in rejoining Spain: a referendum held in 2002 showed 99% of the population wished to remain British.

The topmost part of the Rock is still used as a British military installation, and is off-limits to the public.

GibraltarPass

The GibraltarPass combines most of Gibraltar's attractions and more under a one-day digital visitors' pass. Buy it online and receive a digital pass on your mobile phone. It costs £49 for over-12s and £44 for kids aged 5-11, and is valid for one calendar day (05:00-23:59); consecutive second and third day passes are available with a 10% and 15% discount, respectively. Among other things, it covers travel on either the Gibraltar Cable Car or a guided minibus tour of the Rock, plus entry to attractions such as the Gibraltar Nature Reserve (for the macaques), St Michael Cave, SkyWalk, Great Siege Tunnels, WW2 Tunnels, Moorish Castle, and Alameda Gardens. The pass also includes transport on Citibus routes 5 and 10 from the border to the city centre and cable car, as well as a wide variety of freebies and discounts at over 100 activity providers, shops and restaurants in the territory.

Gibraltar's official language is English , although most local people also speak Spanish .

Most locals also converse in Llanito , which is essentially a mix of Andalusian Spanish and British English, unique to Gibraltar. Many businesses such as cafes and restaurants employ monolingual Spanish workers from across the border. In restaurants, it may not be that different from dining in Spain, in terms of language.

Entry requirements

The UK formally left the EU on 31 January 2020, and its transition period ended on 1 January 2021. There are plans for Gibraltar to join the Schengen Area , however this is not official yet . Although entering Gibraltar from Spain will technically invalidate a single-entry Schengen visa, in practice passports are only given a cursory check but not stamped at the land border with Spain, and people who enter and leave via the land border are usually readmitted to Spain without any problems.

If you do not need a visa to visit the United Kingdom , you may also visit Gibraltar without a visa. Additionally, you can visit Gibraltar without a visa if you are a permanent resident of the UK, if you hold a valid UK residence permit issued for at least 12 months, or if you hold a valid UK multiple-entry visa that was issued for at least 6 months. If you need a visa for Gibraltar, you can apply for one at a British diplomatic mission, but keep in mind that Gibraltar visas are separate from visas from the UK.

The most popular alternative airport for Gibraltar is 36.675 -4.499167 2 Málaga Airport ( AGP  IATA ) in Spain , 120 km to the east, which offers a wide range of destinations. Málaga can be reached by bus, but there are only a few services available per day and the trip is approximately 3 hours. 36.744722 -6.06 3 Jerez Airport ( XRY  IATA ) is normally the second choice, despite being closer to Gibraltar.

Queues at the border may make it less time-consuming to park cars in the neighbouring Spanish town of La Línea de la Concepción and walk across. While there are charges for parking in La Línea immediately next to the border, there is free parking throughout town and next to the stadium if you are willing to walk an extra 1 km. Parking on the Spanish side of the border also has the advantage of avoiding Gibraltar's complex one way system with very narrow and badly signposted streets, and limited parking. The land border is open 24 hours a day. A tunnel which opened at the end of March 2023 now bypasses the crossing of the airport runway.

Motorists, and on occasion pedestrians, crossing the border with Spain have been subjected to long delays and searches by the Spanish authorities. Spain has closed the border during disputes or incidents involving the Gibraltar authorities.

Despite being an overseas territory of the United Kingdom , traffic in Gibraltar is on the right side of the road, the same with the rest of continental Europe.

At La Línea , Spain across the border, there are regular buses to and from Seville , Malaga , Cádiz , Granada and hourly to Algeciras (the latter one direct or with stops on the way). The station in La Línea is a five-minute walk from the border with Gibraltar.

The bus station in Algeciras is opposite the railway station and to get there from the harbour, turn left, walk along the main street for about 100 m and then turn right. Continue about 200 m along this street to the small building with railways. There is a small sign for the bus stop. This bus can get you to La Línea for €2.35 (January 2013), and it goes every 30 minutes during the day. Some buses run non-stop while others make intermediate calls. In La Línea you will arrive at the bus station about 500 m from the border with Gibraltar. In the summer it can take up to 2 hours to cross the border with a car.

Current info for Malaga bus station: Estación de Autobuses de Málaga

Tour buses and coaches can be available at all Andalucian major cities, holiday resorts and some mainland hotels.

There is an irregular (no more than 2 departures per month) passenger service from Tangier Med port in Morocco operated by FRS , 1:30 h, €37.50 (as of Jan 2023).

Gibraltar receives a large number of visits from cruise ships, and the strait of Gibraltar is one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world. Over 200 cruise ships call each year on the Port of Gibraltar with a passenger total approaching 350,000. The cruise port is at the western end of Waterport Road, about 1.3 km from Casemates Square and Main St. A port call is one of the easiest ways to get in to visit Gibraltar, especially given the occasional delays at the land border crossing with Spain.

There is no train station in Gibraltar. The nearest is in San Roque-La Línea, which is outside of La Línea proper and about 15 km from the Spain-Gibraltar border. Buses and taxis are available for the last leg from the train station to Gibraltar.

Gibraltar is less than 7 km² in size, so much of it can be seen on foot. Some of the roads (especially up to the Upper Rock) are very steep. Taxis will take the strain out of the climbs, and all the taxi drivers seem to know all the Barbary macaques by name. Buses can be a cheap option to expedite things.

Though Gibraltar's area is small, it is long and thin, so distances can be a bit further than expected. There are two bus companies: privately-owned Citibus which operates routes 5 and 10; and government-owned Gibraltar Bus Company which operates the rest.

Buses can be paid for in pounds or euros (pay cash onboard, Gibraltar Bus requires exact change, Citibus does not.). Bus fares are the same regardless of distance; the euro price is considerably more expensive than the prevailing exchange rate (Oct 2019). The day ticket on Citibus is valid with either bus company, but the day ticket for Gibraltar Bus is only valid with that company. The return ticket on Citibus is valid for 2 trips on the same day on that company's bus.

Bus route 2 goes by the cable car station. It is the only bus that visits Europa Point, the southernmost point in Gibraltar, and the one with the view of Africa. Buses 5 and 10 go to the airport and frontier.

Bus times are available online: Gibraltar Bus Company [dead link] , Citibus .

There are a few roads in Gibraltar, mostly centred along its west coast.

Though the UK drives on the left, Gibraltar drives on the right due to its land border with Spain.

The tourist office is in John Mackintosh Square ; located half way along Main Street.

The main attractions to see in Gibraltar (most are included in the GibraltarPass]):

• Dolphin Watching . There are plenty of playful dolphins of several species (common dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, striped dolphins) to see in the bay. Three companies offer trips: Dolphin Adventure (who also offer a whale-watching tour), Dolphin Safari , and Neptune Marine ; costs as of 2023 are around £25 per adult. ( updated Apr 2017 )
• 36.147681 -5.353423 1 Dolphin Safari , 6 The Square, Marina Bay ( cross the runway and take the first exit at the roundabout on the other side of the runway down Bayside Road. Approximately 100 metres walk down a small road on the right just past the pay and display carpark where the sign reads Marina Bay. At the end of that road in the bottom left hand corner walk through the black iron gates to see the two gold dolphins and the check-in offices ), ☏ +350 200 71914 . 10:00 - 18.00 . See the wild Common, Striped and Bottlenose dolphins of Gibraltar so close you could almost touch them. Adults £25, children £15 .  
• Victoria Stadium next to the airport is the multi-purpose arena, capacity 5,000, that hosts most big spectator events. This includes home games of Gibraltar's national football team, all the club football teams, and the rugby union team.
• Jewish Gibraltar Tours explore the rich history of this unique Jewish community over 300 years old. Visit the synagogues and other important community establishments combined with some of the attractions on the top of the Rock.

The currency of Gibraltar is the Gibraltar pound (GIP), and is equivalent in value to the British pound sterling. British pounds are accepted everywhere in Gibraltar, in addition to the local version.

Gibraltar pounds aren't accepted outside of Gibraltar, not even in the UK. If you are travelling to the UK you will be able to exchange them there at a bank for a service fee. If you are travelling on to elsewhere, then you may not be able to exchange them at all. It is best to change any leftover Gibraltar pounds before leaving; all Gibraltar banks will change Gibraltar pounds to British pounds free-of-charge, You should ask shops to give your change in UK notes if you aren't going to spend them there.

Gibraltar coins feature designs of local significance, but are otherwise identical in denomination, colour and size to sterling coins, and tend to circulate in the UK without question. They come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 pence, 1, 2 and 5 Gibraltar pounds.

Gibraltar banknotes depict landmarks found throughout the territory, and are issued in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 Gibraltar pounds.

Most shops in Gibraltar will also accept euros and U.S. dollars, with the risk of getting a poor rate of exchange. Government offices and post offices do not accept foreign currency.

Credit and debit cards are sometimes not accepted in some shops and, especially, restaurants.

36.144182 -5.360035 1 Morrisons , Westside Road, Europort , ☏ +350-20041114 . M-Sa 08:00-22:00, Su 08:00-20:00 . Large supermarket, selection seems to be the same as in the UK  

Eat and drink

If you like to sit outside and watch the world go by, go to Casemates Square [dead link] where a number of pubs and restaurants serve fairly similar meals.

• 36.145192 -5.352728 1 Gianni's , Grand 3, Casemates Square , ☏ +350 200 44449 . Good Italian. ( updated Apr 2017 )

Irish Town, the road which runs parallel to Main Street, has a number of pubs.

• 36.142075 -5.354067 2 The Clipper , 78 Irish Town , ☏ +350 200 79791 . Good food, friendly staff, and satellite television. They serve a hearty English breakfast. ( updated Apr 2017 )
• 36.141716 -5.354021 3 [formerly dead link] Corks , 79 Irish Town , ☏ +350 200 75566 . M-Sa 08:00-18:00; Su closed . Serves substantial lunches. ( updated Apr 2017 )

Queensway Quay is home to The Waterfront , which serves a good quality, if somewhat eclectic menu which ranges from steak to high quality local fish and Indian food. Casa Pepe's , on the other side of the marina is worth a splurge.

• 36.134678 -5.3546 4 Casa Pepe's . ( updated Apr 2017 )

If you fancy dining waterside the marinas are worth trying, and includes the most southerly pub in Europe. Good food, draught Bass and many others on tap. Happy hour daily at 18:00. Full Sunday lunch available.

• 36.125388 -5.351171 5 Wembley Bar . In the heart of the south district, it is the most southerly pub in Europe. Traditional English pub but with views to Africa. ( updated Apr 2017 )

Marina Bay [dead link] is home to several restaurants. Bianca's and Charlie's Tavern at Marina Bay are worth a visit, the former being very well known for its busy ambience. Gibraltar's first Mexican restaurant has opened in Marina Bay.

• 36.148628 -5.352865 6 Bianca's . ( updated Apr 2017 )
• 36.148896 -5.352932 7 Charlie's Steak House & Grill ( Charlie's Tavern ). ( updated Apr 2017 )

Ocean Village , Gibraltar's newest marina, is an extension to Marina Bay. It is home to several pubs and restaurants, including a Chinese and an Indian.

• 36.14793 -5.353808 8 O'Reilly's . On Leisure Island, part of the Ocean Village marina complex, styled as a traditional Victorian Irish pub. ( updated Apr 2017 )
• 36.139988 -5.353773 9 The Gibraltar Arms , 184 Main Street , ☏ +350 200 72133 , [email protected] . Next to Stag Bros' and is open from 07:30 (09:30 on a Sunday) serving meals all day until late. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 36.143184 -5.353575 10 The Star Bar , 12 Parliament Ln , ☏ +350 200 75924 . Claims to be Gibraltar's oldest bar. With a menu and drinks selection to appeal to most tastes the pub seeks to cater to a wide clientele. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 36.144861 -5.352213 11 The Lord Nelson , Casemates Square , ☏ +350 200 50009 . M-Sa 11:00-14:00; Su 11:00-00:00 . The official home of the Gibraltar Rugby Club and Live Music Venue of the Year, with entertainment on stage every night. Offers free WiFi. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 36.140382 -5.3536 12 The Horseshoe , 193 Main St ( near King St & Bombhouse Lane & Gibraltar Museum ). Small pub with nice outdoor seating, decent prices, homemade pies on the menu, and offers the local beer Gibraltar IPA on tap. Free wifi. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 36.137816 -5.353302 13 Jury's Café and Wine Bar , 275 Main St ( near the Gibraltar Bookshop and Governor's House ), ☏ +350 200 67898 . A nice little cafe located on main street. Good coffee, breakfasts, simple meals and takeaway sandwiches. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• Sai Darbar , 6a Prince Edward Rd , ☏ +350-20061312 . 11:00-15:00, 19:00-23:00 . Indian vegetarian take-away restaurant. Vegetarian burgers £3.50 .  

Eating kosher

There are a number of kosher restaurants, bakeries and minimarkets in Gibraltar.

Presumably due to Gibraltar's very limited space accommodation is expensive . Due to this, many opt for staying across the border in La Línea, Spain and walking across the border, although there are budget options:

• 36.144834 -5.354101 1 Emile Youth Hostel , Montagu Bastion, Line Wall Rd ( just off Casemates Square ), ☏ +350 51106 , +350 57686000 , fax : +350 51106 , [email protected] . Check-out: 10:30 . A family-run hostel. Not the best, but closest thing to the border. They charge £5 for washing clothes and £5 for the wireless internet. You are not allowed to bring your own food into the hostel although they have their own café. Whilst relatively expensive, it's a quiet place near the border. Rates from £18 for a bed in a dorm, £25 for a single room. Cash only .  
• 36.138903 -5.354479 2 The Bristol Hotel , 8-10 Cathedral Square ( Near the south end of Main Street ), ☏ +350 20076800 , [email protected] . Rooms from £69 .  
• 36.139186 -5.352714 3 The Elliot Hotel ( O’Callaghan Eliott Hotel ), 2 Governor's Parade ( just off Main Street, roughly half-way between the Cannon and the Queens ), ☏ +350 20070500 , [email protected] . Good location and good quality. ( updated Apr 2020 )
• 36.13209 -5.350208 4 The Rock Hotel , 3 Europa Rd ( about 400 m south of the entrance to Main Street, up a fairly steep hill ), ☏ +350 20073000 , +350 20073513 , [email protected] . Not as central as some of the others mentioned here, but has great views of the bay. It's one of the more expensive hotels in Gibraltar and was where John Lennon and Yoko Ono got married. All rooms have a sea view. Rooms from £105 off-season, from £135 in summer .  

Gibraltar has a favourable corporate tax regime, and many online gambling websites choose to make Gibraltar their base of operations and employ thousands of people in an ever-thriving jobs market.

• Jobs in Gibraltar , CTS Business Exchange, Ocean Village , ☏ +350 216 44400 .  

Gibraltar's international telephone code is +350 . All landline numbers in Gibraltar have 8 digits.

The prefix to dial prior to country code for international calls is 00 in Gibraltar.

Free wireless is available in the following places:

• Fresh - a cafe/bar just down through the archway when leaving the main square towards the bus stops.
• The Gibraltar Arms - about half way down the main street.
• The Lord Nelson - just by the tunnel exiting the main square.
• The Cannon Bar - behind the Catholic Cathedral.
• The Clipper - on Irish Town near Tuckey's lane.
• Corks Wine Bar - on Irish Town near the Clipper.
• The Horseshoe - on Main Street near the Gibraltar Museum & King Street.

Gibraltar has a low crime rate and an efficient police force to ensure it stays that way. The Royal Gibraltar Police is the civilian police responsible for everyday policing. In some places, particularly around the airport, you may also see the Gibraltar Defence Police. They are part of the British military and are chiefly tasked to protect military installations.

Dial 199 for police assistance, and 190 for fire and ambulance services. Alternatively 112 may be dialed from mobile phones for all emergencies.

However, there have been reports of people being attacked on the Spanish side of the border while returning to Gibraltar on foot late at night. It might be sensible to take a taxi after dark if you have been drinking in the bars in Spain, especially if you are by yourself.

Barbary macaques

The Barbary macaques are wild animals and do bite. It is not advisable to feed them, despite encouragement from irresponsible taxi drivers. In addition, there are kiosks irresponsibly selling 'monkey food', further encouraging this: it is illegal, can incur hefty fines and is bad for their health. Never try to pick up a baby macaque: its mother will not be happy and then neither will you. If you are bitten by a macaque, you will require hospital treatment. Whilst the macaques are rabies-free, they can infect you with hepatitis, and they are most aggressive on the top of the rock, as the most successful animals claim the uppermost reaches of the rock, with their less successful brethren being forced down the rock in their social pecking order.

Stay healthy

Medical treatment.

Gibraltar is part of the European Health Insurance Scheme and has a health service similar to the United Kingdom, with a modern hospital. If you are from a participating country, your EHIC card will entitle you to full free emergency medical treatment.

People from Gibraltar refer to themselves as Gibraltarian or 'Llanito' pronounced Ya-ni-to. Even though the vast majority of Gibraltarians speak Spanish (with a local dialect), they are easily offended if referred to as Spanish because they regard themselves as Gibraltarians and are very proud of their identity. In fact, Gibraltarians have voted overwhelmingly to remain British in several referendums.

Some Gibraltarians also feel sensitive to the use of the term 'colony' due to its connotations of being a deposited population or ruled by a foreign country and lacking in self-government, none of which apply to Gibraltar either now or historically. Additionally, the term 'colony' wasn't used in reference to Gibraltar until the 1830s, at which time there were other places that were colonies and Gibraltar was grouped with them under the term colonies, despite the circumstances being different.

Although the popular view is that the Spanish Government is the cause of many problems concerning Gibraltar, there is no animosity directed by Gibraltarians towards Spanish individuals in general; the thousands of Spanish tourists and workers experience no problems. The 2006 Cordoba Agreement opened up the relationship Gibraltar has with Spain.

You could cross the border to Cadiz in Southern Spain, or cities such as Algeciras or Jerez de la Frontera . Or you could go south, across the Mediterranean, and visit Morocco , with places such as Tangier and Casablanca .

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12 Amazing Things to Do in Gibraltar

Last Modified: August 17, 2023 //  by  Anda //   3 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:

• 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). 

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

Reader Interactions

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.

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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.

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.

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!

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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

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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!!

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Wonderful & very informative article. I think these tips and advice are much helpful. Great Sharing, Thank you for such…

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Hundreds and hundreds of beautiful shells laying on the beach at Catalan Bay during winter in Gibraltar." >

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Gibraltar vows retaliation if Spain imposes full border checks

Gibraltar has vowed retaliations if Spain imposes full border checks.

Its first minister Fabian Picardo was speaking as talks on border checks were postponed until after the July 4 general election.

It means negotiations on a common travel area between the British territory and Spain will not be settled until later in the year, reported the Telegraph.

Speaking to the Gibraltar Chronicle, he said: “If these talks break down, sorrow might turn to anger quite quickly.

“People in Gibraltar need to understand that the alternative to a treaty is potentially the full application of the Schengen border code with all of the massive difficulties that that would entail, and for us to do it reciprocally.

“In other words, if the Schengen border code is applied to Gibraltar and to crossings from Gibraltar to Spain, the government of Gibraltar will apply the same rules to crossings from Spain to Gibraltar.

“We will do that more in sorrow than in anger.”

Since Brexit , usual border procedures were temporarily suspended to allow free movement, but Spanish officials have warned this cannot last forever.

Negotiators had hoped for a breakthrough on an agreement giving Gibraltar associate membership of the EU’s passport-free Schengen Zone last month, but this failed to materialise.

This would allow some 15,000 Spain-based workers to move freely to and from the Rock every day.

If not given associate Schengen status, Gibraltarians and Spaniards would need to have their passports stamped and would be limited to 90 days visa-free travel in each direction.

The last round of negotiations became stuck over the issue of Spanish police operating at the airport.

An EU commission spokesperson said: “The commission remains committed to reach an EU-UK agreement for the benefit of the whole region. The teams remain in touch.”

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20 of the best things to do in Spain

Mar 7, 2024 • 10 min read

From relaxing on beaches in the Canary Islands to wine tasting in La Rioja, here are Spain's top experiences © Imgorthand / Getty Images

From the snow-dusted, ski-worthy Pyrenees to the glinting golden beaches of the south, Spain unfolds in a series of ever-changing landscapes, traditions, attractions, cuisines and even languages.

Its vast natural spaces are a dream for those who love the great outdoors , while the cities, towns and villages fizz with energy, cultural jewels and mouth-watering gastronomy. But where to start? Whether you’re keen to get stuck into dazzling architecture, cycle to a secret beach or spend your days tasting wines, tapas or olive oils, here are 20 unmissable things to do in Spain. 

1. Hike or ride to a secluded beach

Hitting the beach is a national hobby here, and you’ll inevitably fall in love with your own pocket of Spain’s 5470km-long (3400-mile) coastline. Leave the crowds behind by escaping to tranquil, hidden coves that can only be reached on foot, on a bike or on horseback. Head out hiking along Menorca ’s pine-shaded Camí de Cavalls (a restored 14th-century path) to reach turquoise coves; ramble between wild, pebble-studded bays along the Costa Brava; walk to remote sugar-white strands on Andalucía’s breezy Costa de la Luz (also great for kitesurfing); and find protected nudist beaches in Almería’s Parque Natural Cabo de Gata . 

2. Taste Spain's best wines

From headlining grape-growing regions such as La Rioja and the cava-making Penedès to Andalucía’s unmatched Sherry Triangle, Spain’s 70 Denominaciones de Origen (Denominations of Origin) roll out a tantalizing line-up of wines. Many wineries here are now experimenting with unusual combinations, pushing forward sustainable production methods and working to recover rare ancestral grapes.

For the most exciting tours, seek out small, independent bodegas (some still run by their founding families) and track down lesser-known wine-making areas such as Galicia’s up-and-coming Ribeira Sacra, Catalonia’s cool Costers del Segre or the innovative El Hierro and Lanzarote DOs in the Canary Islands. Salud!

Planning tip: If you'd prefer to be the designated drinker rather than the driver, here are some  other ways to travel around in Spain .

3. Dive into art (and nightlife) in Madrid 

Spain’s capital is one of Europe’s greatest cities for art lovers, with a clutch of prestigious galleries where you’ll meet such icons as Picasso’s Guernica ( Centro de Arte Reina Sofía ), Van Gogh’s Les Vessenots in Auvers ( Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza ), and Velázquez’s Las meninas and Goya’s Saturno devorando a su hijo ( Museo del Prado ). More hidden thrills range from sketches by poet Federico García Lorca to mysterious works by Antoni Tàpies. Pre-book tickets online and explore galleries first thing; some even offer "out of hours" tours before the doors officially open. 

Planning tip: Save some energy, though – later on,  one of the best things to do  in the capital city is join the madrileños at buzzy tapas spots, elegant cocktail lounges, laid-back rooftop bars, heaving clubs and more. The party inevitably goes on into the next morning. 

4. Feast on local specialties across Spain

A deep love of fabulous food infuses Spain’s soul. You’ll be grazing on pintxos in Bilbao and San Sebastián , crowding into  Granada 's tapas bars, seeking out creative Michelin stars in Catalonia, digging into super-fresh Valencian paellas by the Mediterranean, getting to know the country’s 2023 Capital of Gastronomy Cuenca  and much more. 

Planning tip:  For a deep dive into regional Spanish cuisine, join an expert-led food tour. Devour Tours  has switched-on guides in Barcelona, Madrid, Seville and San Sebastián, while Annie B’s Spanish Kitchen runs fabulous tapas tours in Cádiz province (an Andalucian foodie hot spot).

5. Admire Modernisme in Barcelona with an insider

Exploring Catalonia’s irresistible capital with a local architect instantly brings life to the Modernista wonders created by Gaudí, Domènech i Montaner, Puig i Cadafalch and others in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Look beyond the star acts ( La Sagrada Família , Casa Batlló, Park Güell ), and don’t miss Gaudí’s floral-tiled first commission Casa Vicens (in Gràcia) and other lesser-known Modernista flourishes around L’Eixample and El Raval.

Planning tip: Help combat Barcelona’s much-discussed overtourism issues by visiting outside high season and weekends, staying in officially licensed accommodations , and supporting sustainably focused projects with local roots and powerful initiatives, as well as exploring the rest of Catalonia (from the heights of the Pyrenees to the rice-making Delta de l’Ebre). 

6. Road trip around Galicia’s lyrical landscapes

Savoring a glass of crisp albariño with a platter of fresh-as-it-gets seafood is a distinctly Galician moment – just one of many surprises in Spain’s beautifully green northwest corner. Roam well beyond Santiago de Compostela to uncover timeworn stone villages, centuries-old wineries, plunging valleys and over 1000km (620 miles) of wild, windswept coastline sprinkled with sublime beaches, particularly around the Illas Cíes and the Costa da Morte .

Planning tip:  While summer brings the warmest weather, June and September are much quieter (always pack an umbrella!).

7. Walk an alternative Camino

Finally stumbling into the glittering cathedral in Galicia’s capital Santiago de Compostela , after trekking hundreds of miles along the fabled Camino de Santiago (Way of St James), is a magical moment. Travelers seeking a less-trodden path can swap the popular traditional Camino Francés for the wonderfully rewarding Camino del Norte (Northern Way) or Camino Primitivo . The 600km (373-mile) Norte meanders along and inland from Spain’s northern coastline from Irún, while the challenging 320km (199-mile) Primitivo from Oviedo is believed to be the original Camino, walked by King Alfonso II back in the ninth century.

Planning tip:  You can combine the two routes by following an alternative branch of the Norte to Oviedo, then linking up with the Primitivo. 

8. Wander off the beaten track in Extremadura

Portugal-bordering Extremadura plunges visitors into one of Spain’s least-touristed corners and is well worth a visit. The secluded Jerte, Ambroz and La Vera valleys reveal half-timbered houses, snow-topped mountains and spring cherry blossom, and there’s outstanding birdwatching in the 180-sq-km (69-sq-mile) Parque Nacional de Monfragüe from March to October. There are also some extraordinary monumental cities, including Cáceres (with its glittering historical core), Trujillo (made wealthy by its high-profile conquistador families) and Mérida (for some of Spain’s most important Roman ruins).

9. Bask in the beauty of Andalucía’s Moorish architecture

Spain’s eight centuries of Islamic rule produced some of its most spectacular architecture, particularly across Andalucía. The unmissable jewels of Moorish Al-Andalus are Granada’s Alhambra , Córdoba’s Mezquita-Catedral and Seville’s Real Alcázar and Giralda , but there’s plenty more. Travel between Córdoba and Granada along the little-known Ruta del Califato (Route of the Caliphate), whose castle-topped villages mark the final medieval frontier between Christian and Islamic Spain; ramble around the majestic alcazabas (fortified palaces) in Almería and Málaga; or head into Huelva’s remote Aracena hills to uncover a rare, perfectly preserved Moorish-era mosque. 

10. Enjoy heavenly hikes in every season

Spain’s varied climate means there are outstanding hiking opportunities year-round – from Granada’s snow-dusted Sierra Nevada (perfect in July/August) and northern Spain’s jagged Parque Nacional de los Picos de Europa  to the cloud-brushing heights of Aragón ’s Parque Nacional de Ordesa y Monte Perdido and Catalonia ’s Parc Nacional d’Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici. Along the coast, hit soul-stirringly beautiful trails such as the 200km-long (124-mile) Camiño dos Faros in Galicia or the cliff-top paths in Almería’s Cabo de Gata. 

Planning tip:  The north shines brightest from June to September/October (book accommodations ahead), while walking in Andalucía is best from March to June and in September and October.

11. Stroll between Andalucía’s white villages

Sunny Andalucía is dotted with impossibly scenic pueblos blancos (white villages), with two main pockets in rural Cádiz and Granada’s Alpujarras valleys – and while these make for fascinating road trips , a series of serene rural walking paths also track between them. Venture off on the long-distance GR7 in the remote eastern Alpujarras (Mairena and Trevélez villages are highlights), or lace up your walking boots in Cádiz’s Sierra de Grazalema, where Moorish castles, rare pinsapos (Spanish firs) and rust-roof villages await. 

12. Learn about Spain’s finest olive oil

If you’ve ever wondered where those liquid-gold Spanish olive oils come from, central Andalucía’s Mar de Olivos (Sea of Olives) is a hidden-in-plain-sight joy. Some of the world’s top-tier olive oils are produced among its 15,000 sq km (5790 sq miles) of rolling hills, craggy peaks and silent valleys, particularly across Jaén and Córdoba provinces (where Priego de Córdoba in the Sierra Subbética is the shining star). Stay in one of the region’s peaceful rural hotels, some of which offer home-cooked meals using their own olive oils, and visit local almazaras (olive mills) for tastings, tours and strolls among the olive groves.

13. Engage in responsible tourism in the Balearics

Forget the dance-until-dawn stereotypes – the four Balearics islands make up one of the Mediterranean’s most blissful escapes, with a strong drive towards responsible tourism that includes a ban on single-use plastics since early 2021. Whether you fancy seductive Mallorca , soothing Menorca , always-chic Ibiza or barefoot-beach Formentera , you can stay in a stylish environment-first agroturisme , learn about the islands’ artisan traditions (from cheese-making to basketry), get involved in beach clean-ups, and soak up the outdoors on hikes, kayak trips, horse-riding adventures and more. 

14. Don’t miss the Canary Islands

Around 1000km (620 miles) southwest of mainland Spain, the eight sunbathed Canaries pack in everything from Atlantic volcanic beaches and eerily beautiful pine forests to hikes up the country’s tallest peak, 3715m-high (12,100ft) Teide.

Planning tip:  Picking just one island can be a challenge – here’s our in-depth Canary Islands guide to help you narrow it down. 

15. Go surfing and exploring along Spain’s green north coast

Some of Spain’s top surf beaches are hidden along the cliff-edged northern coastline, hugging the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias and Galicia . While here, discover stone-built villages, extraordinary galleries, ancient cave art, lively cities, local cider and spectacular mountain ranges.

16. Spot rare wildlife in a remote natural wonderland

In recent years, major conservation efforts have brought several of Spain’s most beloved threatened species back from the brink of extinction, including the Iberian lynx, the Cantabrian brown bear and the majestic quebrantahuesos (bearded vulture). Head out in Andalucía’s mountainous Parque Natural Sierra de Andújar for the chance to see a lynx, or venture to the remote Parque Natural de Somiedo in southwest Asturias to (perhaps!) spy a brown bear.

17. Experience flamenco in its Andalucían heartland

There are flamenco shows all over Spain, but the most inspiring place to lose yourself in this soulful ancient art is its southern birthplace: the Cádiz-Jerez-Seville triangle. Hunt down events at local peñas (flamenco clubs), and don’t miss Jerez ’s lively tabancos , where fiery shows are served up alongside sherry poured straight from the barrel.

Planning tip:  If you've ever dreamed of learning to dance, this is the ideal place to pick up a few flamenco steps of your own. 

18. Wake up in magical accommodations

Fancy slumbering away in a medieval monastery, a fairy-tale castle or a Renaissance palace? Book in at one of Spain’s 98 wonderfully atmospheric paradores , which revolve around sensitively converted buildings packed with centuries of history. Or hunt down a seductive independent stay with its own backstory: a chicly reimagined Modernista mansion in Barcelona, a Balearic farmhouse hidden down a dusty pine-scented track, an artily reimagined home in Cádiz’s Vejer de la Frontera. Many of Spain’s most exciting accommodation spots are attractions in their own right, fueled by inspired, creative design.

19. Get lost in lively, forward-looking Valencia

With its pioneering plans for achieving carbon-neutral tourism , Valencia (Spain’s third-largest city) is becoming a hot tourist favorite. In a short visit, you could be uncovering the Ciutat Vella ’s market-fresh meals, intriguing museums and varied architecture, exploring Santiago de Calatrava’s Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias , savoring seafood in El Cabanyal, cycling along the seafront and more.

Planning tip:  The Fallas de Valencia festival makes March an outrageously popular month to visit Valencia, but this sunny Mediterranean city is also a perfect autumn or winter escape . 

20. Marvel at an ancient (or not so ancient) cathedral

Most Spanish cities unravel around a central plaza overlooked by a formidable cathedral, with styles stretching from Romanesque to Modernista. The country’s most architecturally and spiritually moving cathedrals include León, Toledo , Salamanca , Seville, Burgos , Granada, Segovia , Santiago de Compostela and Palma de Mallorca , as well as Barcelona’s Sagrada Família.

Planning tip:  Climbing up a cathedral tower or joining one of an ever-growing number of rooftop tours is a fantastic way to find a fresh perspective on the city below.

This article was first published Sep 30, 2021 and updated Mar 7, 2024.

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East Side, Beaches

Walk the Rock 4 Free

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• 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

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