BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR SPAIN: BEST GUIDE FOR 2025!

BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR SPAIN: BEST GUIDE FOR 2025!

BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR SPAIN: Macaques enjoying the Mediterranean View.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR SPAIN: Macaques enjoying the Mediterranean View.
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INTRODUCTION: BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR SPAIN!

Are you planning a trip to Gibraltar Spain? You’re in for an unforgettable adventure! Gibraltar, with its geographic location across from Africa and known for its iconic Rock, rich history and natural beauty, offers a unique blend of British and Mediterranean cultures. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover all you need to make the most out of your visit to this iconic location at the entrance to the Mediterranean. According to recent traveler surveys, over 70% say it’s a must-do experience. Let’s dive into the details and find out what are the best things to do in Gibraltar Spain!

Gibraltar, Looking North towards Spain
Gibraltar, Looking North towards Spain

Day Trip To Gibraltar: Logistics

Transportation Options From Spain

Many visitors will be arriving by air so the following information likely won’t apply. For those coming in from Spain on a day trip, this information is for you.

The main tourist areas closest to Gibraltar are Costa del Sol which covers the Coast of Spain up to Nerja, and the Costa de la Luz, which heads west up to Tarifa. From these areas you can reach Gibraltar through various ways:

-car rental – check with local car rental companies for rates and availability
-public bus – from nearby Spanish towns to La Linea de la Concepcion (note: this will still require walking across the border)
organized tours – Various bus companies have organized tours to Gibraltar (for example you can visit the Julia Travel website. This company operates along the Costa Del Sol)
Combination of bus and train – there is a train station in Algeciras (Estacion de Tren Algeciras, about 25km away) and in Taraguilla (Estacion de San Roque, about 12km away). From the train station in San Roque, you can take a connecting bus to La Linea de la Concepcion where you can walk across the border

View from the Harbor
BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR SPAIN: View from the Harbor

(To find out more about the Coast of Spain and The Mediterranean, see our related posts: Guide to the Coast of Spain, and Guide to the Mediterranean Coast)

Border Crossing Tips

Note: In crossing into Gibraltar, you are leaving the EU. If you are planning on entering Gibraltar from Spain then here are a few tips to consider for crossing without any issues:

  1. Carry Proper Identification
    • Ensure you have a valid passport or EU national ID card.
    • Non-EU citizens may need a visa, so check requirements in advance.
  2. Avoid Peak Times
    • Cross early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid long queues.
    • Weekends and holidays can be particularly busy.
  3. Be Prepared for Customs Checks
    • Declare any goods that need to be reported.
    • Follow the rules for duty-free allowances to avoid fines.
  4. Use Pedestrian Crossing if Walking
    • Pedestrians often face shorter wait times than vehicles.
    • There is a dedicated pedestrian lane for faster processing.
  5. Have Local Currency Ready
    • Currency here is the Gibraltar Pound (GIP), but British Pounds (GBP) are also accepted.
    • Having some local currency can be useful for small purchases and transportation.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR SPAIN:

For those planning a visit to “The Rock” (or are sitting on the fence), we’ve put together a list of the top things to do in Gibraltar. The last item on the list might require you to dig deep into your “inner explorer” but its worth it!

Barbary macaques or “Apes” of Gibraltar

There are about 230 macaques or monkeys in Gibraltar and they are the only wild monkeys that exist in the wild in Europe. The macaques live mostly in North Africa and are on the endangered list. 

Tips: Give them space – do not get too close to them and do not get between an adult and a baby. And don’t stare at them! You wouldn’t want someone to stare you down so show some respect. This is their home after all. If they do get agitated or stressed they will fidget and scratch – this is your pre-warning signal to stand back. And don’t feed them!

Macaques Everywhere
BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR SPAIN: Macaques Everywhere

The Gibraltar Nature Reserve

Home of the Macaques, this is a beautiful nature reserve and one of the top tourist attractions in Gibraltar. Don’t forget to bring your camera and remember to wear your backpack facing forward so that the Macaques don’t jump on your back and try to open the bag to see if there is any food in it. 

The Rock

This iconic mountain is the single most recognizable icon of Gibraltar and is synonymous with the territory itself. It rises 426 meters from the Mediterranean and provides a view clear across to the North African coast. This was also the film location for the opening scenes of James Bond in 1987’s The Living Daylights.

DAY TRIP TO GIBRALTAR: The Rock, The Mediterranean
BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR SPAIN: The Rock, The Mediterranean

Gibraltar Cable Car

What better way to make your way to the top of the Rock than by taking the cable car. The terminal is located in town by the Botanical Gardens. At the top, you can immediately visit Apes Den where you can see the Macaques up close. Then from there, you can follow the trail that takes you to Windsor Bridge, St Michael’s Cave then finally Skywalk.

Cable Car
BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR SPAIN: Cable Car

St Michaels Cave

This network of limestone caves is located in the middle of Gibraltar at a height of 300m, in the Gibraltar Nature Reserve. There are a total of 150 different caves here, but at 1 million visitors a year, it is the most visited. The caves were created by rainwater and have formed passageways lined with stalactites and stalagmites.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR SPAIN: Cave on the Rock
BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR SPAIN: Cave on the Rock

The Great Siege Tunnels

During the American Civil War, the French and Spanish tried to retake the territory from the British. They laid siege for over 4 years. During this time the British dug a tunnel to reach the northern rock face of the Rock to establish a gun position as part of a defensive line to keep the Spanish from attacking overland from the north. The tunnel is available for visits daily, just check online for times as they are seasonally adjusted.

The Moorish Castle

The castle was built around the 8th century. Gibraltar itself was held by the Moors for a period of about 700 years. Today it is one of the main tourist attractions in Gibraltar. This is definitely worth seeing.

Europa Point

This is the southernmost point of the territory. This marks the boundary between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic. There are 5 main structures to see here: the lighthouse, the Ibrahim al Ibrahim Mosque, the shrine of Our Lady of Europe, Harding’s Battery, and Nun’s Well. This is not the southern tip of Spain, however, from this vantage point you can see straight across the strait of Gibraltar, and on clear days you will see the coast of Africa.

Europa Point
BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR SPAIN: Europa Point

A Piece of England in the Middle of Spain

When you cross the border from Spain you are literally entering “England”. Take the time to visit the city and visit its shops, restaurants, and cafes. The official language here is English and you will be served everywhere in English. As a Canadian living in Spain, sometimes it’s just nice to have a conversation with someone without having to use a translator app. 

British Phone Booth
BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR SPAIN: British Phone Booth

Walk, Bike, Run

Everything is within walking distance in Gibraltar. You can walk around town or you can rent a bike for a couple of hours. I brought my running shoes and made a point of jogging around to get a feel for the area. The area is not big, so slow down and take the time to look around on foot or by bike. (Ebikes are also available if you need a little help)

BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR SPAIN: Downtown is within walking distance
BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR SPAIN: Downtown is within walking distance

Boat Tours – Dolphin watching

Various outfits operate out of the harbor area and will take you out onto the Mediterranean Sea where you can see local dolphin schools and maybe even some whales depending on what time of year you go. 

BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR SPAIN: Whale watching - Pilot Whales
BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR SPAIN: Whale watching – Pilot Whales

DAY TRIP TO CEUTA In NORTH AFRICA

If you are going to come all the way to Gibraltar, why not go that extra distance to visit a unique Spanish city on the African coast. If you have the time and want an adventure off the beaten path, then consider taking an additional side trip to Ceuta in North Africa. Originally founded by the Phoenicians, Ceuta is a Spanish city/territory on the northern coast of Africa, bordering Morocco. This enclave has a population of 82000 and has an area of about 20 square kilometers. There are regular ferry crossings from Algeciras.

Day Trip Ceuta: Leaving North Africa heading back to Algecira
Day Trip Ceuta: Leaving North Africa heading back to Algecira

Best Time to Travel to Gibraltar:

  1. Spring (March to May)
    • Mild and pleasant weather
    • Fewer tourists compared to summer
    • Ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing
  2. Fall (September to November)
    • Warm temperatures without the peak summer heat
    • Less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience
    • Great for exploring natural attractions and hiking
  3. Weekdays
    • Avoid the weekend rush
    • Quieter attractions and shorter wait times at the border
    • Easier to find parking and get around
  4. Early Morning
    • Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
    • More time to explore throughout the day
    • Better chances of avoiding long queues at the border
  5. Avoid Public Holidays
    • Both Spanish and Gibraltar holidays can increase crowds
    • Border crossing can be busier and slower
    • Plan your trip on regular working days for a smoother experience
view from North Africa
View from North Africa across the Mediterranean

What To Pack

  1. Valid Identification
    • Passport or EU national ID card
    • Any necessary visas or travel documents
  2. Comfortable Clothing
    • Light, breathable clothing for warm weather
    • A light jacket or sweater for cooler mornings or evenings
  3. Comfortable Footwear
    • Sturdy walking shoes for exploring attractions and natural sites
  4. Sun Protection
    • Sunglasses
    • Sunscreen with high SPF
    • Hat or cap
  5. Water Bottle
    • Stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities
  6. Local Currency
    • Gibraltar Pounds (GIP) or British Pounds (GBP) for small purchases and transportation
  7. Map or Guidebook
    • For navigating and learning about key attractions
  8. Camera or Smartphone
    • To capture memories of your trip
  9. Snacks
    • Light snacks or energy bars for quick refreshments
  10. Travel Insurance Details
    • In case of an emergency

FINAL THOUGHTS: BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR SPAIN!

A trip to Gibraltar is packed with excitement and discoveries. From the towering Rock overlooking the Mediterranean, to the bustling town center, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to plan ahead, pack wisely, and enjoy every moment of your adventure. During our day trip, we took the time to visit the downtown area, we rented bikes to get around and we even found time to go to the beach to do some snorkeling. This is a beautiful place to visit and we highly recommend adding this to your bucket list of places to visit especially if you are planning to visit the southern coast of Spain. Ready to explore Gibraltar? Start planning your trip to Gibraltar today!

Author in Gibraltar with the Apes
BEST THINGS TO DO IN GIBRALTAR SPAIN: Author in Gibraltar with the Apes

“Don’t Just Dream It! Do it!”

How about experiencing the Mediterranean first hand? Use the map below to inspire you and plan your next Mediterranean vacation right now!

Reg Auge

Reg holds an MBA, is a former Captain in the Canadian military and has worked as a consultant in industry for over 20 years. From his home in Spain, he has spent the last 10 years traveling throughout the Mediterranean, exploring the various countries and regions. He also regularly runs, windsurfs, and kite surfs, maintaining a healthy and active way of life. Captivated by this Mediterranean lifestyle, he began a Blog last year to inspire like-minded souls to learn about and discover this unique region for themselves.

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