Gibraltar was an essential stop on our Andalusian vacation, being one of the most popular destinations for travelers in this region. We made sure not to miss it, and it was absolutely worth it! Gibraltar is truly a wonderful place, full of amazing things to see and do.
Although located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar is part of the United Kingdom. This territory holds great strategic and military importance due to its position by the Mediterranean Sea. The town has developed around a famous rock, known today as the “Rock of Gibraltar,” a major tourist attraction renowned worldwide. Gibraltar is often noted for offering a high standard of living to its residents, with a prosperous economy, which you can easily notice in the higher restaurant prices compared to cities in Spain.
This article provides a comprehensive guide on what to do in Gibraltar, highlighting key Gibraltar attractions and must-see spots, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this unique territory. Whether you’re curious about the Rock of Gibraltar, the intriguing macaques, or the fascinating tunnels, Gibraltar offers a range of activities and sights that make it a top destination.
1. How to Get to Gibraltar?
There are several ways to get to Gibraltar. Most tourists cross the border from Spain, either by car or bus, from the town of La Línea de la Concepción, the closest Spanish town to Gibraltar. There are also day trips organized from various cities in Spain.
We rented a car in Malaga but chose not to drive it into Gibraltar, opting instead to park near the border and walk across. The border crossing was quick and easy.
Gibraltar is also served by an airport, one of the most unusual in the world, as the runway intersects with the main road linking Gibraltar to the Spanish border. As a result, traffic on Winston Churchill Avenue is stopped whenever a plane takes off or lands.
How to Get to the Rock of Gibraltar?
If you prefer not to drive into Gibraltar, you can easily reach the Rock of Gibraltar by bus. Right after you exit the customs offices, there’s a bus stop that will take you directly to the Rock of Gibraltar. Make sure to have cash on hand, as they did not accept card payments for tickets when we visited. The round-trip ticket was about 7€ per person. I recommend leaving your car at the border parking, as you won’t need it to get around Gibraltar.
2. What to Visit in Gibraltar?
When it comes to Gibraltar attractions, the main highlight is, of course, the Rock of Gibraltar, a natural reserve offering numerous things to do and see. Here’s a list of must-see spots included:
- St Michael’s Cave
- Skywalk
- Great Siege Tunnels
- 100 Ton Gun
- City Under Siege Exhibition
- Apes’ Den
- Moorish Castle
- O’ Hara’s Battery
- World War II Tunnels
- Windsor Suspension Bridge
- Upper Rock Foot Paths
You can purchase the entrance ticket online or directly on-site. We chose to buy it there for clarity on what it included.
Ticket Prices for the Rock of Gibraltar
There are various ticket types, with prices depending on what’s included:
- Access to main attractions – £16
- St. Michael’s Cave
- Great Siege Tunnels
- Moorish Castle
- Skywalk
- Viewing platforms and hiking trails
- Access to all tourist attractions (mentioned above) – £22
- Access to all attractions + round-trip cable car – £36
3. What to Do in Gibraltar for a Day?
- Visit the Rock of Gibraltar Natural Reserve – Take the cable car to the top, then walk back down to fully enjoy the scenery.
- Explore the city center and Main Street – The main commercial artery, lined with duty-free shops, terraces, bars, and restaurants.
- Relax on the beach – Catalan Bay, Eastern Beach, and Sandy Bay are among the most popular beaches in Gibraltar.
4. The Monkeys of Gibraltar
Many tourists visit Gibraltar driven by the curiosity to meet the only wild monkeys in Europe, the Barbary macaques. Over the years, various legends have circulated, suggesting that as long as the monkeys remain, Gibraltar will stay under British control.
The macaques live in the natural reserve on the Rock and are protected by law. Therefore, it’s important to be cautious and follow the rules for their protection. Feeding the monkeys is strictly prohibited, and it’s not recommended to touch them, as, despite their calm and friendly nature, there’s still a risk of attack. You’ll find numerous signs throughout the reserve explaining what you shouldn’t do.
5. The Tunnels of Gibraltar
Another fascinating aspect of Gibraltar is its underground tunnels, primarily built during World War II to protect British troops and equipment. The system includes 50 kilometers of subterranean passages, some of which can be visited in the Rock of Gibraltar reserve.
Lastly but not least…Is Gibraltar Worth Visiting?
Absolutely, Gibraltar is worth visiting! This unique British Overseas Territory, located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, offers a blend of rich history, stunning natural beauty, and diverse attractions. From the iconic Rock of Gibraltar, where you can explore fascinating sites like St. Michael’s Cave and the Great Siege Tunnels, to meeting the famous Barbary macaques, Gibraltar is packed with must-see attractions. Its vibrant city center, beautiful beaches, and unique cultural mix make it a standout destination. Whether you’re exploring the World War II tunnels or enjoying duty-free shopping on Main Street, Gibraltar promises an unforgettable experience.
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Happy travels! 🥰
