Gibraltar holidays

Seeing ‘the Rock’ is a must-do on any holiday to Gibraltar. Ride a cable car to the viewing platforms and walk across the glass skywalk near the summit. If you’re feeling ambitious, hike the Mediterranean Steps, used by British soldiers to climb the Rock in the 18th century. Don’t forget to stop at a few of the historic sites and natural attractions while you’re here.

Focusing on the region’s unique nature is one way to organise a cheap holiday to Gibraltar. Tour the Alameda Gardens to see a mix of native and imported flowers — some of these beds are more than 200 years old. Or explore the themed Nature Lover and Monkey Trails in Gibraltar Nature Reserve, home to Europe’s only wild primate, the Barbary macaque.

Africa is a lot closer than you think. Take a 90-minute ride on the Tangier-Gibraltar Ferry, or catch a boat in nearby Algeciras, Spain. In Tangier, visit the traditional medina, stop at the Kasbah Museum, view North African paintings at the Modern Art Museum and enjoy lamb tagine in the Petit Socco area.

This is the best neighbourhood to stay in Gibraltar for convenience. Walk from your hotel to popular attractions like the 18th-century Convent and the 500-year-old Cathedral of Saint Mary the Crowned. Don’t miss the subtropical flowers at the lush Botanical Gardens. Hungry? Settle in for a full English breakfast or enjoy Mediterranean favourites.

Good for: History, dining, walkability 

With hotels, restaurants and bars located right on the marina, Ocean Village is where to stay in Gibraltar for vibrant nightlife and stunning views. Try your luck at bingo at Casino Admiral, watch the sunset over the Rock or test the tides with a sailing lesson. Ocean Village’s central location means you can easily walk to Main Street and Casemates Square.

Good for: Access to marina, nightlife, seafood

If you’re looking for a quiet setting, then South District is the best area to stay in Gibraltar. But don’t think there’s nothing to see or do here. Visit Europa Point for views of the sea and the Rock. Stop by the natural harbour at Rosia Bay, and visit the 100 Ton Gun at the nearby Napier of Magdala Battery. Take a dip or get a beach chair at Camp Bay.

Good for: Peace and quiet, history, sea views

Take your kids to see lemurs and parrots at Alameda Wildlife Conservation Park, or book a dolphin cruise to spy marine mammals in their natural habitat. Tour St Michael’s Cave, whose mood lighting and large underground chambers make it one of the most popular things to do with family in Gibraltar. 

Main Street is the best place to go shopping in Gibraltar. Browse jewellers, clothing boutiques, wine merchants and fragrance shops along this lively avenue. Explore the side streets to discover smaller independent stores. Find souvenirs at the Ocean Village Sunday Market. Or head to Casemates Square for artisanal goods. For fresh produce, Gibraltar Public Market is just outside the square.

Museums in Gibraltar trace the territory’s eventful history. Brush up on the region’s tumultuous past in the World War II Tunnels, and visit the Military Heritage Centre to learn about Gibraltar’s strategic importance. For a taste of the local arts scene, stop at the Face Frames Gallery or the Gibraltar Exhibitions of Modern Art (GEMA).

Nightlife in Gibraltar is surprisingly diverse for the city’s size. Find international restaurants, British and Irish pubs, and cocktail bars in Casemates Square and Irish Town. Or dance all night in the nightclubs in Ocean Village. If you’re in the mood for live entertainment, check out what’s on at the John Macintosh Hall or St Michael’s Cave — you’ll find music, comedy and more.

Whether you’re craving British pub grub, Spanish tapas or seafood straight from the Mediterranean, you’ll find it at the restaurants in Gibraltar. Casemates Square hosts a wide variety of restaurants — you’re sure to find something to suit every taste. Or check out the trendy bars and restaurants along the Chatham Counterguard. For seafood and Mediterranean dishes, look in Ocean Village and Marina Bay.

Both sides of the peninsula offer excellent beaches. Swim in the Mediterranean and watch the planes land at Gibraltar Airport from Eastern Beach. Or find a quieter scene and take a dip in the Atlantic on Western Beach. For something a little different, go to Sandy Bay Beach and sunbathe on sand imported from the Sahara Desert.