Gibraltar is a very small British enclave at the very southern tip of the European continent. Even though it is just a tiny country it has a lot to offer. No matter if you love nature or are a shopping enthusiast, enjoy beaches or museums, you will find something to do there.
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What You Need To Know Before You Visit
Despite it being British, traffic runs on the right side of the road. But if you consider renting a car, trust me when I say do not do it. This densely populated place (it actually has the fifth highest population density of any country or territory in the world!) has some of the most hectic traffic you’ll encounter in Europe. You can walk nearly everywhere, and it is easy to book a tour or catch a taxi if you want to go a longer distance.
The official currency is the Gibraltar Pound. But if you only visit for a day or two, it might not be worth the hassle of exchanging currency. Credit cards are accepted widely.
English is the official language spoken in Gibraltar.
Gibraltar is a fun place to spend a day, or maybe a weekend. Avid travelers can see all there is to see during that period.
14 Best Things To Do In Gibraltar
1. Shop
Gibraltar is part of the European Union. However, it is outside the VAT zone, which means all shopping is tax-free! On Main Street, which runs north–south through the old town, you will encounter many shops you would expect in a duty-free shopping zone: electronics, cosmetics, jewelry, alcohol, and tobacco is sold in many shops. There are many options for clothes shopping, as well as several specialty shops and the usual souvenir stores. Main Street is a pedestrian zone, so you can stroll without worrying about traffic.
2. People Watch & Enjoy British Food
There are many restaurants along Main Street and at Casemates Square. Casemates Square gets its name from the Grand Casemates, the bomb-proof barracks built there by the British in 1817. Once the site of public executions, it now serves a much happier purpose: it’s the entrance to the shops on Main Street, and a great place to grab something to eat or a pint. Try The Square Cafe, Roy’s Cod Place, or Tramonti Ristorante Italiano for a delicious lunch.
3. See The Rock
The Rock of Gibraltar is the country’s most famous and also its most dominating feature. There are four ways to visit and see all the attractions, which I will cover here in a little bit.
One, you can book a tour. A small bus will pick you up, stop at all the attractions, make sure you see the famous monkeys, and take you back to where you started.
If you prefer more time to explore, pick option number two: take a taxi or walk to the Rock. From the border, it’s a few miles, so if you don’t want to expend your energy quite yet, opt for a drive. Then walk up the Rock on the main side. You will be able to truly appreciate the fantastic views, you get to see all the sights, and it is cheaper.
4. Ride The Cable Car
Another option, number three, is to take the cable car up to the top and then walk down. This is not a good idea if you are afraid of heights! But it is a quick and convenient way to get to the top, and it’s definitely an experience!
5. Hike Up The Mediterranean Steps
Or, option four, you can choose the track off the beaten path: the Mediterranean Steps. Now this route isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s quite steep at times, it’s not for you if you are afraid of heights, and you may encounter monkeys blocking your path who are rather unwilling to move out of the way. Yet is was my favorite way to scale the Rock. As soon as you get around the back side, all the noise of the hustle and bustle of Gibraltar subsides. It’s very quiet and peaceful. On top of that you will encounter unprecedented views of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s a great workout, and most beautiful in the mornings.
If the views inspires you to see more of the beautiful Mediterranean, considering a trip by Interrail around the Mediterranean. It’s a great way to explore many countries in depth.
6. See The Barbary Macaques
The Barbary Macaques in Gibraltar are the only wild monkey population in Europe, which makes them a main attraction. The Ape’s Den is the place where they like to hang out, so if you want to spend some time observing the Barbary Macaques in their natural habitat, head there. You will almost certainly see some along the way, but the Ape’s Den is the best chance to see a bigger group.
I recommend bringing an umbrella. Umbrellas are a great tool to protect yourself from monkeys. These Barbary Macaques are very used to humans, and they think nothing of hopping on your backpack to try and find out if you brought along any good snacks (don’t bring along snacks). If a monkey gets too close for comfort, open the umbrella. It makes you look much bigger, and the monkey will likely give you enough space to continue on your way.
7. Be On The Lookout For Other Wildlife
The Barbary Macaques are the main wildlife attraction in Gibraltar, but there are more critters to be on the lookout for, such as mouse eared bats, red foxes, and European rabbits. Bird lovers should bring along binoculars and watch for greater spotted eagles, Egyptian vultures, and white storks.
8. Be Awed By St. Michael’s Cave
St. Michael’s Cave is a stop I would highly recommend. It is a natural limestone cave and it is breathtaking. It’s a huge space, so big in fact that it is used to hold events such as concerts on occasion. If you have a chance to attend an event there, you are guaranteed to have the experience of a lifetime. If not, still go and enjoy the natural beauty within.
9. Catch Excellent Views At The Moorish Castle
The Moorish Castle is one of the best spots to catch the panoramic views. These fortifications date back to the 14th century and are well worth a visit.
10. Learn About History At The Great Siege Tunnels
The Great Siege Tunnels were built during the Great Siege, an attempt by the Spanish and French to recapture Gibraltar, which started in 1779 and ended in 1783. The tunnels were deemed one of the most impressive systems for defense every invented. The tunnel system was expanded during World War II, and today you can see this ingenious human feat for yourself, among with authentic 18th century cannons used for defense back then.
Last but not least, take a break at Mons Calpe Suite, the restaurant at the top of the Rock. Enjoy lunch, brunch, an afternoon tea or a cocktail and enjoy the views. This space is also available for rent for private events.
11. Admire The Flora At The Botanic Gardens
The Botanic Gardens are located at the foot of the Rock and easy to find. It’s a quiet place to wander, but those who long to learn about Gibraltar’s fauna can get a guided tour. The cherry on top is the Alameda Wildlife Conservation Park, home to many rescued animals.
12. Europa Point
Europa Point is the southernmost tip of Gibraltar. It, again, like so many places in this country, offers beautiful views of the Straight Of Gibraltar, the Mediterranean, and, on a clear day you can see Africa! It’s a large lat area where you can just walk around and soak in the sea breeze, or you can see the Trinity Lighthouse, also called the Lighthouse at Europa Point, which is right at the point where the Mediterranean Sea splits from the Atlantic Ocean. You can’t go inside, but it’s beautiful to see and great to take pictures of. It is a beacon for sailors navigating the difficult waters in this area.
Admire the cannons at Harding’s Battery, a restored artillery battery, and stand in awe at the beauty of the Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque, one of the largest mosques in any non-Muslim country in the world! Finally, see the Shrine Of Our Lady Of Europe, believed to be dating back to the 14th century.
13. Spend Time At The Beach
There is much to do and see in this tiny gem at the southern tip of Europe. If you need some time for rest and relaxation, head to the beach! Choose the beaches on the eastern side rather than the western side of the country. They are generally more sandy and less rocky, and less noisy as they are away from the city. Catalan Bay is a favorite.
14. Go On A Day Trip To Africa
Put a tick on a bucket list item when you set foot on the African continent for a day. Day trips to Tangier, Morocco, are available from Gibraltar. You could also choose to spend a few days in Gibraltar, and then continue. Check this Morocco travel guide for the best things to do!
This guest post is contributed by Jenny a sailor turned landlubber, dedicated dog mom to Moose and Hera. She is an avid reader, writer, editor, lover of words and adventures.
There is 1 comment
Such a good read. Gibraltar wouldn’t have even occurred to me as somewhere that had such an amount to do. It definitely sounds worth a trip though.
Thanks for sharing!