A guide to help you find what to do in Gibraltar for a wonderful experience
If you’re wondering what to do in Gibraltar, you may be surprised to discover that there’s no shortage of great activities to enjoy all year long.
Gibraltar, the tiny British territory located at the southern tip of Spain, packs a big punch with its historic sites, wildlife, hiking trails, and stunning coastline views.
From spotting schools of dolphins swimming in the bay to exploring ancient tunnels hewn from limestone, Gibraltar delivers world-class attractions and experiences without requiring a lot of time or a massive travel budget.
Gibraltar is one of the best things to do in Malaga if you’re planning a one day trip and want to explore this beautiful place.
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What To Do In Gibraltar
- The Rock
- The Great Siege Tunnels
- Gibraltar’s Botanic Gardens
- Europa Point Lighthouse
- St Michael’s Cave
- The Apes Den
What To Do In Gibraltar
1. Visit the Europa Point Lighthouse
The most southerly point of the European continent, Europa Point is one of the key Gibraltar points of interest.
Home to a shrine, water well, memorial stadium, and mosque, this landmark is also famous for its Trinity Lighthouse.
Standing 160 feet or 49 metres above sea level, the 19th-century lighthouse boasts impressive views over to Spain and Morocco.
A small garden with historic guns and a military memorial also surrounds it.
Legend has it that Hercules went through Europa Point when completing his 10th labor. He opened the strait up and created Europa Point’s distinctive pillars.
With such a long and illustrious history, it isn’t too surprising that this is one of the most popular things to see in Gibraltar.
Opening times:
Europa Point is open all year round, all day long.
2. Take a dolphin-watching tour
If you’re wondering what to do in Gibraltar and love wildlife, you will surely enjoy a dolphin-watching trip. There are three different dolphin species living in the water around Gibraltar.
You can get up close to the Common, Striped, and Bottlenose dolphins on one of these tours. – Check the guided tour here.
On one of these trips, you’ll also see the coastline in all its glory. You’ll view the Rock’s caves on its eastern side. You’ll also enjoy views across Spain and Morocco.
You can choose from one of three different dolphin-watching tour operators. You can book a trip online, directly at the marina, or via your hotel’s reception.
Opening times:
Tours take place at various times throughout the day.
3. Lunch in Gibraltar at AquaTerra
When the time comes to take a break from your sightseeing in Gibraltar, you could head to Aquaterra for some lunch.
This top-rated restaurant is one of the top places to go in Gibraltar for great value and delicious local cuisine.
Whether you fancy a light salad or a hearty steak to fuel you up for an afternoon of discovery, you’re sure to be delighted by Aquaterra’s amazing menu.
With a convenient location at the International Shopping Centre, you’ll be right in the heart of the action too.
4. Explore the St Michael’s Cave
If you only have 1 day in Gibraltar, you should certainly consider making a beeline for St. Michael’s Cave.
This magical location is the stuff of legends. It was once said to have no bottom, and that a passage underground connected Gibraltar to Africa.
It was even believed the local Barbary macaque monkeys traveled here via this passage.
During the Second World War, St Michael’s cave was turned into an emergency hospital. Luckily, though, they never needed to use it.
Not only can you take a guided tour here, but you may be lucky enough to be able to attend a unique event such as a concert, ballet performance or show.
You can also enjoy the “Awakening” sound and light installation inside the cave.
Opening times:
Monday to Sunday, 9am – 6pm
5. Go back in history at the Moorish Castle
Dating back to the 12th century, the Moorish Castle has seen plenty of action during its long life.
The original castle on the site was destroyed during the 1300s, so its current oldest part dates to 1333. It still has damage from many sieges and attacks over the years.
When Turkish pirates came to Gibraltar to ransack it in 1540, the residents hid inside its tower.
It was also a working prison right up until 2010. Head up onto its battlements to admire incredible views over the Mediterranean.
Opening times:
Monday to Friday: 9.30am – 6.15pm
6. Wonder the Gibraltar’s Botanic Gardens
Having been open for public visits for over 200 years, the Botanic Gardens are one of the most tranquil places to visit in Gibraltar.
In the gardens, you’ll find 19th century plaques and commemorative busts as well as exotic and native plants.
One particularly interesting feature is the small individual gardens that are run and maintained by local schools and groups.
Once per month, you can take a one-hour tour with a horticulturist to gain an in-depth insight into the history of the garden.
These tours also give you access to The Dell and other areas that are restricted to the public.
Opening times:
Every day – 8am to 9pm
7. Enjoy a stunning view from the top of the Rock of Gibraltar
There is no more iconic sight in Gibraltar than The Rock. In fact if you’re wondering what to see in Gibraltar in one day, this landmark may be top of your list.
Having been a nature reserve and a military stronghold in its past, The Rock is now best known for its amazing views. You can admire panoramas across Africa and the Atlantic Ocean.
You can walk up to the Rock if you’re feeling energetic, although many tourists prefer to take the cable car. – Check the guided tour here.
Opening times:
9am – 6.15pm daily
8. Enjoy tapas in Bruno’s Bar Restaurant
While you take a break and plan what to see in Gibraltar during the rest of your stay, you should certainly take time out to visit Bruno’s Bar Restaurant for tapas.
Although Gibraltar isn’t actually Spanish, it boasts many aspects of Spanish culture, and tapas is one of them. You can order a few small plates as a snack or make a meal of these shared dishes.
If tapas don’t take your fancy, you could always opt for one of the British classics like ribeye steak or salmon. There are also delicious desserts to pick from.
9. Ride the Gibraltar Cable Car
If you’re wondering what to do in Gibraltar, a classic activity is to ride the cable car. – Check the guided tour here.
Right next to the entrance to the Botanic Gardens, this picturesque ride will take you to the top of the Rock itself. It’s a fun way to admire the view, and it’s a lot less tiring than walking!
When you get to the top, you’ll discover three terraces with a gift shop and café, an exhibition, and a restaurant. Of course, you’ll also find the famous Barbary macaques that live here.
Opening times:
Every day 9:30am – 3:30pm, running every 10 minutes.
10. Do not miss the Apes Den
For animal lovers, there’s only one answer to what to do in Gibraltar, and that’s to visit the Apes Den.
Home to the only Barbary macaque monkeys in Europe, this unique attraction is world-famous.
It’s believed these monkeys were imported to Gibraltar in the British garrison’s early days.
Many legends surround them. It’s even said if they disappear, then the British will forever leave Gibraltar.
While the macaques are fascinating and beautiful, it’s important to remember that they’re wild animals.
You should keep a safe distance away from them and never feed or touch them. They can give you a nasty bite!
Opening times:
Every day – 9:30am – 7:15pm
11. Dinner in Paparazzi Steakhouse restaurant
If you’re ready for a delicious dinner at the end of a long day of sightseeing, the Paparazzi Steakhouse is a top choice.
Located in the center of town, it serves up juicy steaks and more to hungry diners.
As Gibraltar’s only steakhouse to have its dry-aging fridge, this venue serves up premium meat from all over the world.
You can try Kobe Wagyu and Rubia Gallega here. Steaks are also cooked on a wood and charcoal barbecue grill for an even more delightful flavor.
Address: 44 Cornwalls Lane, Gibraltar Town
Open daily 12 noon until 11pm
12. Discover History at Gibraltar National Museum and Moorish Baths
Right in Gibraltar’s beating heart is its National Museum together with its Moorish Baths. A cultural and historical center, the museum has been open since 1930.
Here, you’ll find numerous exhibits portraying local life and revealing the territory’s fascinating history.
If you’re wondering what to do in Gibraltar indoors, this is the ideal attraction, since it’s indoors and weatherproof.
However, it does have a garden to explore if the weather is dry. Here you’ll find artifacts, outdoor archaeological exhibitions, exhibits from the caves, and even some Medieval Baths.
The National Museum’s best attraction is the Moorish bathhouse’s 14th-century remains. These can be viewed from the protective walkway.
Opening times:
Open Monday to Friday, 10am – 6pm and Saturdays 10am – 2pm. Closed Sunday.
13. Alameda Wildlife Conservation Park
When it comes to things to do in Gibraltar for animal enthusiasts, the Alameda Wildlife Conservation Park inside the Botanic Gardens is home to both exotic and native species.
Here, you’ll discover animals that have been confiscated by customs officials as well as exotic unwanted pets.
Some of the greatest attractions include the cotton-topped tamarins and the lemurs. You can get up close to these stunning creatures by walking along the bridge right through their habitat.
Opening times:Open daily 10 am until 3.30 pm
14. Great Siege Tunnels
If you’re a history enthusiast wondering what to do in Gibraltar, the Great Siege Tunnels should be on your must-visit list.
This spectacular labyrinth was a hidden system of defense to protect Gibraltar from attacks.
Following the American War of Independence, Spain and France tried to take Gibraltar back from Britain. That siege marked the territory’s 14th attack and lasted four years.
Gibraltar’s Governor-General Eliott decided to place guns on the Notch, an especially dangerous area of the Rock to protect it.
The solution, suggested by a Royal Engineer called Sergeant-Major Ince, was to dig a tunnel. Dug out over five weeks by hand, the tunnel is an amazing military feat and you can take a guided tour to explore it.
Opening times:
Daily 9.39am – 7.15pm
15. Grand Casemates Square
Taking its name from a bombproof barracks built by the British in 1817, Casemates Square is now home to many restaurants, bars, and pubs as well as a museum and some shops.
It also serves as an entrance into the town’s shopping district.
If you’re visiting Gibraltar over New Year, you could attend the New Year’s Eve party here, as the square is frequently used for hosting major events.
Opening times:
The various bars, restaurants and shops all have their own opening hours.
16. Enjoy The Rock for Less
If you need to know what to do in Gibraltar on a budget, the Enjoy The Rock for Less ticket is the ideal answer.
These tickets allow you to unlock discounts on many of Gibraltar’s best attractions and places. Even better, 20% of your ticket price will be given as a donation to local disabled children’s charities.
Every ticket gets discounts for up to five people and as they remain valid for 15 days, if you’re taking a longer trip, you can really get great value for money.
Some of the discounts you can enjoy include money off meals in top local restaurants, reductions in shops, and exclusive experiences like Distillery Tours.
Opening times:
All of the venues involved in this offer have their own opening hours.
Best Hotels in Gibraltar
We recommend three of the best hotels in Gibraltar to suit you, whatever your budget.
1. Sunborn Gibraltar ***** – Luxury
If you’re looking for a luxury stay in Gibraltar, the Sunborn Gibraltar is the ultimate accommodation for you.
This luxurious five-star yacht hotel offers beautiful rooms with comfortable beds and all modern conveniences in an unusual setting.
You can choose from several bars and restaurants onboard, while the spa offers complete tranquility and relaxing treatments in a stylish setting.
You can also take advantage of the fitness room with its range of high-quality workout equipment and exercise classes.
2. E1 Suites & Spa aparthotel style – Gym & Spa **** – Mid-Range
Offering all of the convenience of an apartment with the facilities of a hotel, the E1 Suites & Spa is a great choice if you want flexibility and style at your fingertips.
The suites are well-appointed and comfortable, while your stay offers inclusive use of the leisure facilities and spa.
Take a swim in the pool, work out in the fitness suite or enjoy a relaxing treatment before enjoying a meal in the onsite boutique cafe.
If you prefer, you can self-cater in your own room, or if you’re feeling lazy, you can order room service. It’s up to you!
3. Rock Hotel Gibraltar *** – Budget
If you’re visiting Gibraltar on a budget but still want to be sure of staying in quality accommodation, the Rock Hotel Gibraltar is hard to beat.
This historic property dates back to the 1930s and is home to the biggest outdoor pool in Gibraltar.
Relax in one of the suites or guestrooms and admire the stunning views, or sample some delicious Mediterranean cuisine in the onsite restaurant.
You can even indulge in a quintessentially British afternoon tea!
Getting Around Gibraltar
Since Gibraltar is only 6 square kilometers in size, it’s very easy to access on foot. Nevertheless, there are other ways to get around if you aren’t very mobile or are feeling lazy.
There are five different bus routes around the territory to take you to everywhere you’d want to go except the Rock itself, which you can access via cable car.
There are also taxis available for hire as well as eBikes and regular bikes which you can rent during your stay.
Also, learn how to get from Malaga to Gibraltar with our helpful and easy-to-follow guide and start dreaming about what to do in Gibraltar on your next trip.
Short FAQ about what to do in Gibraltar
Is Gibraltar worth visiting in winter?
Gibraltar is worth visiting at any time of year thanks to its mild climate and great attractions, many of which are at least partially undercover.
Even in January, the temperature often stays in the mid-teens Celsius, so you enjoy pleasant excursions in the open air. All of Gibraltar’s best attractions remain open all year round too.
How many days in Gibraltar is enough?
Technically, you could visit several of Gibraltar’s attractions in a single day, however a longer visit is more beneficial if you want to see the best of the territory.
A three-day visit is a good amount of time to explore Gibraltar to its fullest.
What to do in Gibraltar for 3 days?
If you’re wondering what to do in Gibraltar for 3 days, you should think about your interests.
If you like animals and nature, the Rock, the Alameda Wildlife Conservation Park, the Botanic Gardens, and the Apes Den are all ideal attractions for you.
If you prefer history, you should visit the Moorish Castle, the Great Siege Tunnels, and the National Museum and Moorish Bathhouse.
Hola, I’m Paulina! Together with my team, we are passionate about Southern Spain. Here we share all you need to know for great times in Southern Spain with the best places to visit, stay and, of course, the best food to eat.
Let’s dive in and explore Southern Spain’s outdoors, food and culture con pasión!