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Things to do

There is so much to do and see while in Gibraltar. Here are a few highlights.

Rock Tour

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Gibraltar's rich history and stunning landscapes with a guided Rock Tour. These tours offer a comprehensive look at the territory's most iconic landmarks, all within the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle.​

Tour Highlights

Most Rock Tours include visits to:​

  • Pillars of Hercules: A viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the Strait of Gibraltar.

  • St. Michael's Cave: A mesmerizing natural limestone cave adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, often used for concerts due to its excellent acoustics.

  • Top of the Rock: Home to the famous Barbary macaques and the Skywalk, providing breathtaking views.

  • Great Siege Tunnels: A network of tunnels carved out during the Great Siege of Gibraltar in the late 18th century.

  • Moorish Castle: A medieval fortification dating back to the 8th century.

  • Europa Point: The southernmost point of Gibraltar, offering views of the African coastline.

📍 How to Book a Rock Tour

There are a few great ways to explore the Rock of Gibraltar — here are the two most popular options:

🚡 By Cable Car

Perfect for those who enjoy a bit of adventure, the Cable Car offers stunning views and a memorable ride to the top of the Rock. Once at the summit, you can explore the sights at your own pace with a self-guided tour.

Top tip: Be sure to bring plenty of water, wear comfortable shoes, and don’t forget your sunscreen — especially in warmer months!

📍 Cable Car Station: Located at Grand Parade, at the base of the Rock.

🚖 Guided Taxi Tour

If you prefer a more relaxed way to see the sights, a guided taxi tour is a fantastic option. Your knowledgeable driver will take you to the top attractions while sharing stories and insights about Gibraltar’s rich history — and you won’t have to do much walking!

📍 Where to Book: You’ll find official taxi tour stands at Grand Parade, but you’ll also see licensed guides offering tours along Main Street.

Dolphin Sight Seeing Trip

A visit to Gibraltar wouldn’t be complete without experiencing one of its most magical attractions — a dolphin-watching trip in the beautiful Bay of Gibraltar. The area is home to several species of wild dolphins, including Common, Bottlenose, and Striped dolphins, and they’re often seen playing in the waves just off the coast!

Two trusted tour operators run regular boat trips:

Dolphin Adventure

Join marine biologists aboard a custom catamaran for an eco-friendly, educational tour.
📍 Departs from Marina Bay
🕒 Trips last around 1 hour 15 minutes
📞 +350 200 50650
🌐 www.dolphin.gi

Dolphin Safari

The iconic blue boat offers fun, family-friendly trips with a 99% dolphin sighting rate.
📍 Also located at Marina Bay
🕒 Standard and VIP trips available (1–1.5 hours)
📞 +350 200 71914
🌐 www.dolphinsafari.gi

💡Good to Know

  • Advance booking is recommended, especially in summer.

  • Don’t forget your sun hat, camera, and sunscreen!

  • Trips are weather-dependent, so it’s best to double-check the schedule on the day.

Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with the family, a dolphin trip is a truly unforgettable way to enjoy Gibraltar’s natural beauty.

Museum

​The Gibraltar National Museum offers a captivating journey through the territory's rich history, culture, and natural heritage. Established in 1930, the museum is housed in a historic building on Bomb House Lane, just off Main Street in Gibraltar's city centre.

🕰️ Opening Hours

  • Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

  • Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed
    Last admission is 30 minutes before closing time.

🎟️ Admission Fees

  • Adults: £15.00

  • Children under 12: £7.50

  • Infants under 5: Free

  • Gibraltar ID card holders: Free
    Joint tickets, including access to the Gorham's Cave Complex Viewing Platform, are available for £16.00 (adults) and £8.00 (children under 12).

🏛️ Highlights & Exhibits

  • 14th-Century Moorish Baths: One of the best-preserved examples in Europe.

  • Neanderthal Gallery: Featuring reconstructions and artifacts from Gibraltar's prehistoric past.

  • Great Siege Exhibition: Detailing the 1779–1783 siege with original artifacts.

  • Marine Biodiversity Room: Showcasing the diverse marine life around Gibraltar.

  • John Fernandez Room: Home to an 8-meter scale model of Gibraltar from 1865.

  • Archaeological Excavations: Outdoor exhibits in the museum's garden.

  • Natural History Museum at Parson's Lodge: Included with your ticket. 

📍 Location

18–20 Bomb House Lane, Gibraltar
Located just off Main Street, opposite the Cathedral of Saint Mary the Crowned.​

Europa Point

Located at the southernmost tip of Gibraltar, Europa Point is a must-visit spot for panoramic views, fascinating landmarks, and a peaceful atmosphere.

On a clear day, you can see across the Strait of Gibraltar to the coast of North Africa — it's truly a picture-perfect location.

🌍 What You’ll See at Europa Point:

  • The Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque – A striking and beautifully designed mosque, gifted by King Fahd of Saudi Arabia.

  • The Trinity Lighthouse – Built in 1841, it still operates today and is one of the few lighthouses under the authority of Trinity House outside of the UK.

  • The Nun’s Well – A historic underground water cistern believed to date back to Moorish times.

  • Harding’s Battery – A restored coastal defence battery with interpretive displays and fantastic views.

  • The Sikorski Memorial – Honouring General Władysław Sikorski, a prominent Polish military leader who died in a 1943 plane crash off the coast.

🚶‍♀️ Getting There:

Europa Point is easily accessible by car, taxi, or bus. It’s the final stop on Bus Route 2, which runs regularly from the city centre.

🧺 A Great Place to Relax

Whether you’re sightseeing or just want to enjoy the sea breeze and open space, Europa Point is ideal for a leisurely walk, some peaceful reflection, or even a picnic.

Parsons Lodge

Tucked away at the entrance to Rosia Bay, Parson’s Lodge Battery is one of Gibraltar’s hidden historical gems. This restored 19th-century British coastal battery offers a unique glimpse into the Rock’s rich military history — with spectacular views thrown in for good measure.

🕰 A Step Back in Time

Originally built in the 1880s, Parson’s Lodge was strategically positioned to protect the bay from naval attacks. It housed three massive 10-inch rifled guns capable of reaching targets far out at sea. Today, much of the battery has been preserved or reconstructed, offering visitors a chance to walk through history.

🧭 What You’ll Find:

  • Underground Tunnels and gun emplacements to explore

  • Interpretive displays detailing Gibraltar’s defence systems

  • Fantastic views over the Bay of Gibraltar

  • Peaceful walking trails nearby, great for a relaxed stroll after your visit

  • Often used by Gibraltar’s Natural History Society, so you might spot flora, fauna, or even archaeological activities!

📍 Getting There

Parson’s Lodge is located above Rosia Bay, near the southern end of Main Street. It’s accessible on foot, by car, or taxi. Limited parking is available nearby.

📅 Visitor Info

The battery is occasionally open to the public for open days or guided tours. Check locally or with the Gibraltar Museum for current visiting times.

100 Ton Gun

One of Gibraltar’s most impressive historical sights, the 100-Ton Gun is a true monument to Victorian military engineering. Housed at the Napier of Magdala Battery in the Rosia area, this enormous cannon is one of only two remaining Armstrong 100-ton guns in the world — the other being in Malta.

📖 A Bit of History

Installed in 1883, the gun was part of Britain’s response to growing naval threats in the Mediterranean. At over 17 metres long and weighing a staggering 100 tons, it was capable of firing a one-ton shell over 8 miles — a truly fearsome piece of firepower in its day.

The gun was never fired in combat, but it remains a powerful symbol of Gibraltar’s strategic importance and military past.

 

🧭 What to Expect

  • View the colossal gun up close in its original fortified position

  • Learn from informative displays and exhibits about its engineering and purpose

  • Explore the surrounding Napier of Magdala Battery, including other fortifications and artillery

  • Snap a photo at one of Gibraltar’s most unique historic sites

 

📍 Getting There

Located near Rosia Bay, the site is easily accessible by car, taxi, or a 15-minute walk from the southern end of Main Street. It's often open during daylight hours, with entry sometimes tied in with museum visits or military heritage days.

Beaches

While Gibraltar may be known for its dramatic cliffs and historical sites, it also offers some beautiful spots to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine. Here’s a guide to some of the best beaches in Gibraltar:

🌊 Catalan Bay

Catalan Bay is one of Gibraltar’s most picturesque beaches. Located on the eastern side of the Rock, this small, sandy bay is perfect for a day of sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the view. The beach is lined with charming white-washed cottages and offers calm waters ideal for families.

  • Facilities: Beachside cafes, sunbeds, showers, and toilets

  • Best for: Families, relaxing, swimming

  • How to get there: A short drive from the city centre or a 20-minute walk

 

🌊 Eastern Beach

Eastern Beach is one of the largest beaches in Gibraltar, and it’s popular for its wide stretch of sand and vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for a day of sun and sea, it has plenty of space for beach games, picnics, and swimming.

  • Facilities: Lifeguards, showers, sunbeds, and restaurants

  • Best for: Families, water sports, beach games

  • How to get there: Accessible by car or bus, with plenty of parking available

 

🌊 Sandy Bay

Located at the foot of the Rock on the eastern side, Sandy Bay is a quiet and relatively secluded beach, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. It’s a peaceful spot with clear waters and a natural setting.

  • Facilities: Limited – no formal amenities, so bring your own supplies

  • Best for: Tranquil days, nature lovers, swimming

  • How to get there: A 15-minute walk from Catalan Bay

 

🌊 Camp Bay

Camp Bay is a small but serene beach near Sandy Bay. It’s a great place for a relaxing day away from the hustle and bustle, offering calm waters for swimming. The area has a laid-back vibe and is excellent for those looking to unwind.

  • Facilities: Limited facilities, so bring refreshments

  • Best for: Peaceful days, swimming, and sunbathing

  • How to get there: A short walk from Sandy Bay

 

🌊 Little Bay

Little Bay is an underrated gem, offering a more private and quiet experience than the more popular beaches. It’s an ideal spot for those who want a tranquil beach day with fewer crowds.

  • Facilities: None – it’s a more natural, unspoiled beach

  • Best for: Quiet relaxation, picnics, scenic views

  • How to get there: A short drive or a 10-minute walk from the city

Botanical Gardens

Nestled on the lower slopes of the Rock of Gibraltar, the Botanical Gardens offer a peaceful and picturesque escape from the bustling city. Spread over 6 acres, this lush garden is home to a stunning variety of plant species, both native and exotic, as well as scenic walking paths and historical landmarks.

🌸 What You’ll Find

  • Beautiful Plant Displays: The gardens feature a diverse collection of plants, including tropical species, Mediterranean plants, and unique trees. Highlights include the cactus garden, palm trees, and vibrant flowers.

  • Historical Elements: The gardens also house several historical features, such as the Alameda Water Gardens, which were built in the 19th century and still maintain their charm.

  • Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wildlife, including butterflies, birds, and even monkeys that occasionally visit the garden’s paths.

  • Peaceful Walks: Wander through winding paths, enjoy the shade of ancient trees, and take in stunning views of Gibraltar, the bay, and even the nearby coast of Africa on clear days.

 

🌳 Key Attractions

  • The Tropical Plant Collection: A fascinating range of tropical plants from all over the world.

  • The Cactus Garden: This is a standout section of the gardens with a vast collection of cactus species in an arid, desert-like setting.

  • Fountain and Water Features: There are tranquil water features throughout the gardens, perfect for a moment of relaxation.

  • The Alameda: An area with formal gardens and Victorian-style features offering plenty of seating and shaded areas for a leisurely break.

 

📍 Getting There

The Gibraltar Botanical Gardens are located just off The Alameda, close to the city centre. The entrance is easily reachable by foot from Main Street or by taxi. The gardens are open daily and free to enter, making it an excellent spot for a relaxed and quiet outing.

Wildlife Park

Nestled within the lush surroundings of the Alameda Botanic Gardens, the Alameda Wildlife Conservation Park (AWCP) is Gibraltar's only wildlife park. Established in 1994, it began as a sanctuary for animals rescued from illegal trade and today plays a key role in conservation efforts and public education.

🌿 Conservation & Education

AWCP is dedicated to caring for rescued animals and supporting breeding programs for endangered species. The park also provides valuable educational opportunities to local schools and the general public, helping to raise awareness about wildlife and environmental conservation.

🐾 Featured Residents

The park is home to a variety of species, including:

  • Cotton-topped tamarins

  • Ring-tailed lemurs

  • Asian short-clawed otters

  • African grey parrots

  • Burmese pythons

  • Indian peafowl

These animals contribute to the park’s mission of promoting conservation and educating visitors.

 

📅 Opening Hours

  • October to May: Wednesday 10:00 – 16:00, Thursday to Tuesday 10:00 – 16:30

  • June to September: Wednesday 10:00 – 15:00, Thursday to Tuesday 10:00 – 15:30

Last admission is 30 minutes before closing.

 

🎟️ Admission Fees

  • Adults: £5.00

  • Children & Seniors: £2.50

Entrance fees go towards the maintenance of the park, animal care, and educational programs.

 

📍 Location & Contact

  • Address: Gibraltar Botanic Gardens, Red Sands Road, PO Box 843, Gibraltar

  • Phone: +350 20064273

  • Email: info@awcp.gi

  • Website: www.awcp.gi

 

🐒 Lemur Experience

AWCP offers a unique opportunity to interact with lemurs in a specially designed walkthrough exhibit, allowing visitors to get up close and learn more about these fascinating creatures.

 

🌟 Visitor Feedback

Many visitors praise the park for its friendly staff, well-maintained exhibits, and the chance to engage with the animals. It’s often noted for its educational value and commitment to animal welfare.

 

📲 Plan Your Visit

To enhance your experience, consider downloading the AWCP mobile app, which provides interactive maps, detailed information about the animals, and updates on feeding times and special events.

Events

Gibraltar is a lively destination with plenty of events and activities happening throughout the year, making it an ideal place for every kind of visitor. From cultural festivals to wildlife experiences and historical tours, there’s always something exciting to discover.

Whether you're interested in wildlife conservation events, music festivals, historical exhibitions, or special guided tours, Gibraltar has a packed calendar of activities to enjoy.

To stay up to date with the latest happenings, visit BuyTickets.gi. It’s the best place to see what’s going on, find upcoming events, and book your tickets ahead of time to ensure you don’t miss out on the fun!

Runway

Gibraltar International Airport is renowned for its unique feature: the runway intersects with Winston Churchill Avenue, the main road connecting the city to Spain. This distinctive setup has made it one of the few airports globally where pedestrians can cross an active runway.

 

🚶 Pedestrian Access

While vehicles can no longer cross the runway due to the newly opened Kingsway Tunnel, pedestrians, cyclists, and mobility scooters still have access. This pedestrian crossing offers a rare opportunity for visitors to walk across an active runway. The crossing is equipped with safety measures, including barriers and signals, ensuring pedestrian safety during aircraft operations.

 

📸 A Unique Experience

Walking across the runway provides a unique perspective of the airport's operations and is a popular activity for tourists. It's not uncommon to see travelers pausing to take photos or videos, capturing the rare sight of pedestrians sharing space with aircraft.

 

🛣️ The Kingsway Tunnel

For those who prefer not to walk across the runway, the Kingsway Tunnel offers a convenient alternative. This tunnel, which opened in March 2023, allows vehicles and pedestrians to bypass the runway safely, providing a more conventional route into the city.

 

📍 Location

The pedestrian crossing is located at the eastern end of the runway, near the beach on the Mediterranean side. It's easily accessible from the city center and offers a distinctive entry point into Gibraltar.

 

🎥 Experience the Crossing

Walking across the runway is a fun and memorable experience, offering a glimpse of Gibraltar’s unique airport operations and a chance to get close to the runway.

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