By Kenya Barrett
Gibraltar is a captivating blend of British charm, Mediterranean warmth, and fascinating history packed into a tiny peninsula. From exploring ancient Moorish fortresses and WWII tunnels to spotting playful dolphins and wild macaques, every corner of Gibraltar offers something unique.
Read on to learn more about the top things to do in Gibraltar!
Experience the beauty of this country with our holiday packages to Gibraltar.
The Gibraltar Skywalk
Perched on a former military site, the Skywalk is a glass viewing platform standing 340 metres above sea level, with exhilarating views stretching across the Strait of Gibraltar to Africa. This modern addition to Gibraltar offers a thrilling experience against the timeless scenery of the rock. It’s an unmissable spot for those who enjoy high vantage points and incredible sights.
Dolphin Watching Tour
The rich waters off Gibraltar's coast are teeming with sardines, mackerel, and flying fish, drawing playful pods of dolphins by the hundreds. Affordable boat tours provide the chance to witness these remarkable creatures feeding and frolicking up close. You’ll also be treated to spectacular views of the Pillars of Hercules and the striking coastlines of Africa and Europe.
St. Michael’s Cave
This magnificent natural cave is adorned with striking stalactites and stalagmites, creating a dramatic scene within the Rock of Gibraltar. The cave has been steeped in myths and military use over the centuries, and today it hosts concerts in its enchanting main chamber. Guided tours reveal the fascinating formations and the cave's place in Gibraltar's heritage – easily making it one of the best things to do in Gibraltar.
World War II Tunnels
These tunnels, hidden deep within the Rock, reveal Gibraltar’s strategic role during World War II. A maze of passageways, bunkers, and lookouts, the tunnels served as a secure city for soldiers. Exploring them is a fascinating journey into Gibraltar’s wartime legacy.
Main Street
Main Street is Gibraltar’s lively shopping centre, bustling with duty-free shops, British brands, and quaint cafes. The street offers an enjoyable shopping experience, from high-street favourites to unique local finds. Walking along Main Street, you’ll also appreciate its colonial architecture and Gibraltar’s unique British-Mediterranean vibe.
The Moorish Castle
Dating back to the 8th century, the Moorish Castle is one of Gibraltar’s oldest structures and a vivid reminder of its Moorish history. The Tower of Homage, with its distinctive keyhole windows and fortified walls, gives a glimpse into the fortress’s past. Climbing to the top rewards visitors with sweeping views over the town and bay.
Casemates Square
Casemates Square, Gibraltar’s largest public square, is a bustling hub filled with restaurants, cafés, and shops. It’s a central gathering spot with a rich history, home to ruins from Moorish settlements dating back to the 10th century. Completed in 1817, it’s now a vibrant place for dining and people-watching.
Europa Point
At Gibraltar’s southernmost point, Europa Point offers sweeping views over the Strait of Gibraltar towards Morocco. The area is home to the iconic Europa Point Lighthouse, the Shrine of Our Lady of Europe, and the beautiful Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque. For those interested in a peaceful thing to do in Gibraltar, this spot is ideal for sightseeing and appreciating the country's significance.
Apes’ Den
The Apes’ Den is home to Gibraltar’s Barbary macaques – Europe’s only wild monkeys – and are a beloved sight in the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. Legend says that as long as the macaques remain, so too will British rule in Gibraltar. While they’re charming to watch, it’s best to keep your distance, as these wild animals can be unpredictable.
The Gibraltar Cable Car
Opened in 1966, the Gibraltar Cable Car transports visitors up to the "Top of the Rock" in just six minutes, soaring 1,350 feet above sea level. Each ride offers stunning views of the Mediterranean as well as a narrated guide pointing out key landmarks. The journey is a memorable experience, capped by breathtaking vistas at the top.
The Great Siege Tunnels
The Great Siege Tunnels were an extraordinary military feat, carved by hand into the Rock to defend Gibraltar against French and Spanish forces. These tunnels, built in just six weeks, played a crucial role in Britain’s defence strategy during the Great Siege. Walking through this impressive network is a step back into Gibraltar’s wartime history.
The Alameda: Gibraltar Botanic Gardens
These peaceful botanic gardens offer a lush escape from the more crowded sights. Located at the end of Main Street, near the Southport Gates, they are filled with subtropical plants and tranquil paths. Created in 1816, the gardens are a beautiful haven for nature lovers.
The Gibraltar National Museum
Established in 1930, this museum explores Gibraltar's natural and cultural history with fascinating exhibits. Inside, visitors can see well-preserved 14th-century baths, Roman artefacts, and a scale model of the Rock from the 1800s. It is one of the top things to do in Gibraltar for those curious about the country's intriguing past.
The Mediterranean Steps
For those seeking an adventurous hike, the Mediterranean Steps offer a steep yet rewarding trail up the Rock of Gibraltar. The pathway provides astonishing views over the Mediterranean Sea and, on clear days, glimpses of Africa. It’s a rigorous trek through Gibraltar’s rugged natural beauty.
