Holidays to Gibraltar take you to a slice of Britain in the heart of the Mediterranean. With 300 days of sunshine, resident wild macaques (sometimes referred to as barbary apes) and plenty of English watering holes, the magic lies in its mix of the familiar and the exotic. As a British territory bordering Spain, it's like walking into a typical seaside town in Blighty with a subtropical climate. Expect fish and chips shops and red post boxes sitting alongside Andalusian style townhouses.
Gibraltar's VAT-free status also allows you to do some serious shopping at a fraction of the price. So if you're craving bucket-list-level scenery, beautiful sandy beaches and duty-free shopping, Gibraltar holidays are for you.
Things to Do
Just a quick hop from the UK (3 hours), the "Rock of Gibraltar" is the perfect destination for a short break or weekend away. Covering less than three square miles, getting around this compact peninsula is super easy and affordable. Grab a bargain on the duty-free Main Street, take in spectacular vistas from its famous rock, or while the hours away on its relaxing British pub scene.
Shopping
One of our favourite places to visit in Gibraltar is Ocean Village. With its duty-free status and backdrop of high-end yachts, it's a shoppers' paradise. The pound sterling currency also means you won't be hit with any costly conversion rates. Lined with perfumeries, jewellery stores, boozy outlets and high-street names, you can shop ‘til you drop right into one of the many bars and restaurants along the strip. We recommend Sunborn Gibraltar for its casino and cocktails on the water.
History & Culture
Its strategic location has made Gibraltar one of the most fought after places in Europe. Explore the underground siege tunnels and 8th-century forts to glimpse into its epic military past. In the shadow of a Moorish castle is Casemates Square, a bombproof barrack built in 1817. This is now a bustling plaza filled with shops, bars, and restaurants. The square also hosts many grand military parades and National Day celebrations.
Europa Point
Just a short 15-minute bus ride from the centre of town is Europa Point. Sitting at the most southern tip of Gibraltar, you'll get to see some incredible views out to Africa and Tangier. A large cannon points out across the Mediterranean Sea, with plaques detailing the unique history of its location. There's also a mosque, small church, cafe and lighthouse to explore.
Cable Car to the Summit
A holiday to Gibraltar would be incomplete without a trip to the top of the "Rock". While you can hike 5 miles to the summit, most visitors take a cable car to the top, taking just 6 minutes. At the midway point, you'll find a nature reserve teeming with cheeky Barbary monkeys waiting to greet you. Keep hold of your bag, though. They do like to grab anything they can get their hands on. You mustn't touch or feed them either.
Walk the Skies
Standing 340 metres above sea level is the famous Skywalk. Taller than the highest point of the London Shard, you're invited to walk across the glass-bottomed platform for uninterrupted views over three countries and two continents. Those seeking further thrills can stroll along the wobbly Windsor Suspension Bridge, high above a 50-metre gorge. If you'd prefer to keep your feet on the ground, there's another route around the bridge.
St Michael’s Cave
One of our favourite places to visit in Gibraltar is St Michael’s cave, a natural wonder filled with stalactites and stalagmites. A mesmerising light show illuminates the formations. The site has hosted many weddings, picnics and concerts in the Victorian era. Known also as the cathedral cave, the venue still hosts many live music events within its auditorium.
Family Fun
There are plenty of things to do with the kids in Gibraltar. One of our favourite attractions is the dolphin excursions. Many of these tours run from Marina Bay, taking you on a viewing vessel that cruises the Strait. And for a history lesson like no other, head to the WW2 siege tunnels, filled with marvels of military engineering. Another top family attractions in Gibraltar is the Rock Escape Rooms, where you can crack codes and riddles together.
More Short Breaks
We also have travel guides available for Short Breaks destinations, including: Dublin | Malaga | Marrakech | Palma | Seville