20 Awesome Things to do in Gibraltar | Uncommon Experiences in Southern Spain

We will walk through all the best things to do in Gibraltar. You will be surprised by how fascinating this tiny country is. Situated on the southern coast of Spain at the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea, Gibraltar has been fought over by European powers for centuries.

But its strategic location is just one thing that makes this tiny British Overseas Territory so fascinating.

Thanks to its sunny climate and abundance of activities, Gibraltar is a great place to visit year-round. There’s something for everyone in Gibraltar, from sightseeing and history tours to hiking and wildlife watching. Read on for our guide to the best things to do in Gibraltar.

You can visit Gibraltar year-round. However, for those who want a milder and more pleasant climate. But if you’re looking for something outside of the busy tourist season, try December- March!

You can save quite a bit of money on flights, accommodations and other travel expenses during the off-season. Generally, you should follow the weather forecast for Spain. In fact, Summer in Spain is perfect, and Gibraltar is in the southern area, part of Andalusia, one of the hottest regions in the Iberian peninsula.

The currency used in Gibraltar is the Gibraltar Pound (£ / GP). It’s best to exchange money at one of several exchange booths located around before heading out for things to see in Gibraltar. Gibraltar also has a duty-free policy, which means that no tax is charged on any items brought into or out of Gibraltar for personal use.

Gibraltar is home to many different types of monkey and ape species. The most commonly seen species are Barbary macaques, which are often seen roaming freely around town, looking for food or treats from tourists. Don’t forget to witness these apes when looking for things to see in Gibraltar!

How to get to Gibraltar from Cadiz

There are several options for getting from Cadiz to Gibraltar, so it comes down to what you want out of the trip. You can get from Cadiz to Gibraltar by train, plane, rideshare, bus or ferry. 

The bus ride between Cádiz and Gibraltar takes around two hours and forty-five minutes, covering 95 kilometres. The bus is operated by Transportes Comes, departing from Cadiz and arriving in La Línea de la Concepción.

The cheapest way to get from Cadiz to Gibraltar is by rideshare. It’s easy, convenient and affordable. The average cost is $7.72 and takes two hours.

How to get to Gibraltar from Malaga

The quickest way to get between Malaga and Gibraltar is by car. The drive can take up to 1 hour and a half and is relatively cheap. 

If you’re travelling with luggage or other belongings, the bus is probably the best option. There are regular buses between Malaga airport and various points in Gibraltar. A bus departs from Málaga and arrives at La Línea de la Concepción. The journey takes approximately two hours and 15m.

You can easily catch a ride with Uber or Lyft, which offer low-cost ridesharing services (starting from $8) without any waiting times!

How to get to Gibraltar from Seville

If you need to get from Gibraltar to Seville, then you will need to use a combination of public transport and taxis. The bus is the most recommended means of transportation from Seville to Gibraltar. You can also opt for driving from Seville to Gibraltar, which will take around two hours.

Even though Gibraltar is a small country, it is not short on tourist attractions. If you want to see the top attractions, then spending one days in Gibraltar is enough. However, if you’re going to explore more than just the main attractions, we suggest extending your trip to two days. This way, you can experience the true essence of your holiday destination.

Getting around Gibraltar

Gibraltar is relatively small, making it an ideal day trip in Andalusia. Once you get into the sovereign state, you will see the typical London red double-decker buses. It’s crazy, but you will find a small Great Britain in Spain, and everything looks the same as London, but with sun and some crazy beaches.

You can go around by bus and reach a few remote points of Gibraltar, like Europa Point or Catalan Beach, by bus. However, Gibraltar is mainly a financial country, and it’s trendy to take taxis around the city centre. There is no link between Gibraltar and Morocco, despite the short stretch of sea that divides the two countries, as the nearest harbour to take ferries to Africa is in Algecesir.

Explore the Gibraltar Caves | St. Michael’s Cave

St. Michael’s Cave is a large underground limestone cavern beneath the Rock of Gibraltar. The main attraction of the cave is its stalactites and stalagmites. These are formed by the water dripping down from the ceiling and collecting on the ground. In addition to its beauty, St. Michael’s Cave also offers valuable insights into Gibraltar’s past.

The Rock of Gibraltar has an extensive network of tunnels and caves that you can explore independently or with a guide.

It was thought that St Michael’s Cave had no bottom for a long time. This is likely what gave rise to the legend that the Rock of Gibraltar was connected to Africa by a subterranean conduit beneath the Gibraltar Strait.

Moorish castle

The Moorish Castle is one of the most famous historical landmarks. The Castle has been restored several times over the years, and today it is a museum and exhibition centre. Visitors can explore Gibraltar’s rich history through interactive exhibits, displays and artefacts.

Siege Tunnels

The Great Siege Tunnels are a series of tunnels built under the Rock of Gibraltar during the Great Siege of Gibraltar (1779–1783). The Great Siege Tunnels is considered one of the most important historical sites in Gibraltar, as they tell the story of a significant period in history.

O’Hara’s Battery on top of the Rock

Following the trail on top of the rock of Gibraltar, you will reach the endpoint of the massive mountain overseeing the strait.

The Peninsula has always played a strategic role in the European political map. The position by the Straits where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean was important during the Second World War. At the end of Gibraltar’s Rock trail, there is the O’Hara’s Battery, a cannon point to the sea that can rotate about 180 degrees and was the defence of the little country.

Visit Europa Point

Europa Point is one of the best things to see in Gibraltar. The point is famous for its panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and North Africa. It’s a fun place to spend some time with friends or family, especially if you are interested in nature or just want to enjoy a nice view over the sea. This is also said to be a perfect place for all the photographers, as its views are unmatched in beauty!

Explore the Gibraltar Botanic Gardens 

The Gibraltar Gardens are still unknown to tourists, but it’s the ideal location to explore while in Gibraltar for a day trip. The subtropical garden was established in 1826, taking a portion of the territory of 6 hectares and consisting of the green heart of the overseas territory.

The complex of Gibraltar Botanic Gardens includes the Alameda Gardens, a wildlife conservation park nestled inside the park’s nature and is free to enter. The Gibraltar Gardens offers an alternative point of view of Gibraltar and is open to the public every day from 8 am to sunset.

Alameda Botanic Garden

The Alameda Botanic Garden is home to more than 2,000 species of plants and trees worldwide; a dream come true for botanists and gardening enthusiasts!

Furthermore, the garden is part of the already mentioned above Gibraltar Botanic Gardens, which extends on an area of about 6 hectares and conserves some of the most exotic wildlife creatures in the world. So, if you are fond of wildlife photography, we suggest carrying your equipment and doing some insta-worthy wildlife photography!

Sacred Heart Church

The Sacred Heart Church is a Catholic church in Gibraltar. It is known for its Gothic Revival architecture, which combines traditional features with modern, such as flying buttresses and pointed arches. The interior is decorated with stained glass windows depicting scenes from the Bible and religious imagery.

Catalan Bay

Catalan Bay is a small, secluded and picturesque bay that is popular among tourists and locals alike. It is situated along the eastern coast of the Rock. There are also some interesting caves to explore and several old buildings that have been converted into restaurants or bars that give off a vintage feel! Visit these restaurants to witness old-city charm while enjoying the local cuisine!

There is no end to the unique experiences and things to do in Gibraltar. We tried to make a clear list of amazing places in Gibraltar that are often outside the classic Gibraltar guides. 

Explore the hidden gems of Gibraltar, such as the Windsor Suspension Bridge, a breathtaking passage that will show you the best panorama from the top of the rock. Encounter legends and myths of Gibraltar at the Pillars of Hercules Memorial. 

Explore the tasty food scene in Gibraltar at the local market. In the guide below, check out this vital information as are strategic places when visiting Gibraltar in winter.

Windsor Suspension Bridge

The Windsor Suspension Bridge is a pedestrian bridge spanning the Strait of Gibraltar, suspended over a 50-metre deep gorge. The bridge is popular with tourists because it offers a spectacular view of The Rock, which stands on a promontory above sea level, and has been described as one of the most impressive sights in Europe!

Pillars of Hercules Monument

In the central car park of Gibraltar, there is a new modern monument that enhances the legend of the pillars of Hercules. However, in ancient times the posts were two massive rocks (Gibraltar’s upper rock was one), intended as pillars to enter the Mediterranean.

From Gibraltar Upper rock nature reserve, you can see the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean meet! Today you can visit the two promontories (Two columns of Hercules” at the eastern end of the Strait of Gibraltar. Read the legend behind the two columns of Hercules.

Where are the Pillars of Hercules Monument? Check the exact location!

Taste your senses at Gibraltar Market

We love exploring the markets; in our opinion, it is there that you see all the local traditions and get involved in the daily life of the people that live in the place. However, not many know that Gibraltar has a lively and beautiful market. We were surprised to see that even though everything around seems like a British version of Spanish life, the market looks like an excellent Spanish food market with stalls selling local goods, meat, fish and vegetables.

We understand that the Gibraltar Market can be unusual in Gibraltar, but it is worth it, especially if you are visiting the place early in the morning. You can get in from Fish Market Lane, and you will be surprised at how big this place is.

Walk through Landport Tunnel

Once, Landport Tunnel was the only way to get in and out from Gibraltar over than by the sea. The tunnel is still active and was rebuilt in 1727 and was the site of many battles. It is more of a hidden gem of Gibraltar, and you should get lost, search for it, or be directed by locals to find the place. To give you good tips is also a shortcut to get to the airport or walk out of the city quicker.

LOCATION | Landport Tunnel, Gibraltar GX11 1AA, Gibraltar

Shop ’till you Drop | Shopping in Gibraltar

While on a day visit to Gibraltar, you can’t miss strolling around Main Street. The high-end shopping street of Gibraltar is filled with boutiques, well-known brands, independent shops and very cheap and affordable items.

Gibraltar is an Overseas British Territory and, because of that, features some of the most famous brands you can have in the cities in the United Kingdom. Rather than just shops, you can also discover the Cathedral of Saint Mary the crowned or get a pint in a typical pub. Main Road ends up in Casemates Square, our next thing to do in Gibraltar on this list.

Hang out in Casemates Square | Things to do in Gibraltar at night

Casemates Square is the largest piazza in Gibraltar, and it’s where locals and tourists enjoy a pint and sunshine during the day.

Casemates Square is also the main place for the best night out in Gibraltar, thanks to the many pubs, restaurants and activities open until late. In this square, we felt like we were in the Uk, but with warm weather and palm trees all around.

If you are in Casemates Square for a quick bite, check out the Tunnel for lunch and dinner, or All’s Well for a pint, a few side dishes and fun until late.

If you’re looking for free things to do in Gibraltar, you can consider one of the following:

• Take a walk/hike around the Mediterranean Steps
• Gibraltar National Museum
• The Charles V Wall is the most famous of Gibraltar’s defensive walls. Take a visit to the historical landmark!
• Visit the Europa Point Lighthouse and reminisce about the impressive views from the top.
• Alameda wildlife conservation

Step in Saint Mary the Crowned Cathedral

On Main Street, the main shopping area of Gibraltar, there is Saint Mary the Crowned Cathedral, the beautiful roman catholic Cathedral of the little country.

It is the primary centre of Catholic worship in Gibraltar and features stunning Neoclassical architecture. The Cathedral of Gibraltar is a fantastic free thing to do in the tiny country and perfect while strolling around the city centre.

Mirador El Higueron

Driving about half an hour out of Gibraltar on the A385 Highway from La Linea de la Conceptión there is the Mirador El Higueron. The mountain offers the perfect panoramic view over the Cadiz province and the Rock of Gibraltar.

We highly suggest you check out this easy path and enjoy one of the best landscapes in Spain. The Mirador, which means viewpoint, offers a clear view of the rock of Gibraltar, and on a nice day, you might also see the silhouette of Morocco’s coasts.

There is a little hike of about half an hour to reach the terrace, but you can park in the ample space and have a picnic if you fancy it.

Malaga

One of the options for visiting Andalusia on an Epic Road Trip is to rent a car at Malaga Airport. Renting a car in Spain is inexpensive and straightforward; we’ve done it numerous times with no issues. If you’re thinking of hiring a car, keep in mind that while all of Spain’s motorways are free, you’ll have to pay a fee to get to Gibraltar.

Because Gibraltar is considered a new country, most rental companies will not allow you to cross the Spanish border. Don’t worry if your rental agreement prevents you from travelling to Gibraltar; you can still visit. You are about to depart.

You will park your car at the entrance of Gibraltar in the city known as La Linea de la Concepcion. There are several car spaces in the parking lot before the border if you feel insecure about leaving the car in one of the free parking places around the little town.
The day trip from Malaga is fantastic; the roads are excellent, and you won’t be concerned if you are not an expert driver.

Tarifa

Tarifa is very close to Cadiz, so you can combine the perfect day trip from Gibraltar and enjoy the two locations on the coast at the same time. Tarifa is mainly known for the wide sandy beach, the surfer hotspots, and one of the most exciting locations to experience the melting pot culture between Africa and Europe.

The village is charming and mainly dedicated to the arabesque market and its nearby beaches. If you are interested in watersports in Spain, Tarifa is the location to go for. Check out our guide to Kitesurfing in Tarifa, and enjoy the best beaches in Andalucia.

Marbella

Many people identify Marbella as a British expat town in Andalusia. Not so far from Malaga, Marbella tourism leads to some of the best beaches in Southern Spain, incredible watersport activities, and plenty of shops, restaurants and beach services. The white town of Marbella is ideal for a day trip from Gibraltar, as it is just about an hour away driving.

Tangier

We have explained in this post about the best things to do in Gibraltar, that the coast of Morocco is very close. Tangier is the first harbour of Northern Morocco and is the closest link to Europe and Spain. It’s easy to go for a day trip to Tangier and explore the local food, and the international heritage coming from the long influence of French, Spanish, British and many others. In one day in Tangier, try to explore the most incredible things to do:

• The Kasbah
• The Grande Mosquée of Tangier
• Beach Promenade. Natural Feature
• St Andrew’s Church

CHECK OUT THE AMAZING MOROCCO 4-DAY TOUR FROM THE COSTA DEL SOL (BARGAIN FOR LESS THAN £500).

Seville

Seville is one of our favourite cities in Andalusia. The city that shows the most architectural heritage in the whole Region is always on the list of places to explore in Spain and offers many other attractions, from the gorgeous, glamorous style of food to Flamenco shows. Explore the old town and get raped by the marvellous Alcazar, leading to the Cathedral’s fascinating history of returning to the Moorish rule.

However, Seville has a different charm, featuring modern masterpieces like the “Setas de Seville”, Plaza de Espana and Plaza de Toros. While exploring Andalucia, you can’t miss placing on your itinerary a day trip to Seville from Gibraltar.

Places to stay in Gibraltar

Where to stay in Gibraltar

If you’re planning a trip to the Costa del Sol, often known as Andalusia or Andalucia, don’t forget to include a day excursion to Gibraltar in your itinerary. One day in Gibraltar is enough time to see this small country.

Gibraltar is entirely reasonable for a day trip; it is small yet packed with things to do. Even though most people believe Gibraltar is pricey, it is not. Apart from the accommodation, the holiday is reasonably priced.
A soft drink in the country’s main square will set you back no more than 2.5 euros or 3 euros. Prepare yourself to enjoy the ruins of a Moorish Castle, play with the monkeys on the top of the Rock, enjoy a fantastic sunset while on the cable car, and hop on some of the best “British” beaches in Andalusia.

To know more about things to do in Gibraltar, check our compelling blog post.

The natural beauty of Gibraltar includes lush greenery and flowering plants, which provides a perfect backdrop for festivals.

The Gibraltar World Music Festival

This festival presented by MTV is a multi-day event held every summer in Gibraltar. The festival brings together some of the biggest names in music from across the globe.

Three Kings Cavalcade

The Three Kings Cavalcade festival is a unique tradition on the 5th of January. The festival features a parade, fireworks, and music. You can even take a break and go shopping in Gibraltar!

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR GIBRALTAR

Nowadays, booking travel insurance is becoming part of the travelling plan. It’s just a precaution, and you should consider it even if you are an experienced traveller.

Planning an Itinerary through Gibraltar, which includes activities like hiking and other sports, is essential to have travel insurance. However, this is not just indicated because medical problems might occur, but also if your luggage gets lost, the connection between train and flight.

Many Rental car agencies will lower the cost of car insurance if you have your Travel insurance, or this might cover the costs of car accidents or damage to the car entirely. For us, having Travel Insurance is the way to enjoy our vacation with peace of mind.

Hey Mondo | COVID-19 coverage, medical expenses and total travel costs. A fantastic app with 24-hour medical care and no extra charges. You can save 5% on your insurance by booking through our link.

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