Gibraltar Travel Guide & Itinerary – Part 3

When my husband and I first landed in Gibraltar, we didn’t expect to fall so hard for such a tiny place. It’s only 6.8 square kilometres in size—smaller than most London neighbourhoods—but Gibraltar comprises jaw-dropping views, cheeky monkeys, and a collision of British, Spanish, and North African cultures you won’t find anywhere else.

Quick links:

• How to Reach Gibraltar
• Best Hotels to Stay in Gibraltar
• Best Free Things to Do in Gibraltar
• ✨ Final Thoughts

How to Reach Gibraltar

By Air:

• Gibraltar International Airport (GIB) – Small and convenient, with British Airways and Easy Jet flights from London Gatwick, Heathrow, Bristol, and Manchester.
• Alternatively, fly to Malaga or Seville in Spain and drive or take a bus (~1.5–2.5 hours to the border). Combine your Spain trip with Gibraltar.

By Road:

• Cross from La Línea de la Concepción (Spain) on foot or by car if you are a British or European citizen, or if you hold a Schengen Visa. It’s a short walk across the border and runway.

Best Hotels to Stay in Gibraltar

Sunborn Gibraltar (Yacht‑Hotel, 5★)

• A luxury superyacht permanently docked in Ocean Village. Upscale, glamorous, and reminiscent of Monte Carlo, with its casino, spa, rooftop pool, and premium dining.
• Price: From £237–£269/night (approx. €228–€244) including tax, often with champagne breakfast

The Rock Hotel (Historic, 4★)

• An Iconic Art Deco hotel perched above the botanical gardens. It has lush grounds, an outdoor pool, gourmet dining, and picturesque views of the Strait and Africa.
• Price range: Around £165–£169, sometimes lower during the shoulder season (as low as approximately €54 per night).

Bristol Hotel (Classic 3★)

• Gibraltar’s oldest hotel (est. 1894), nestled in Cathedral Square. Features colonial architecture, a garden area, and a small pool.
• Price: Around £126 (~€80) per night

Holiday Inn Express Gibraltar (3–3.5★ Value)

• Located near the airport, this practical and affordable option includes breakfast and is ideal for short stays.
• Price: Approximately £161–£164/night

Note: These prices are estimates only.

Best Free Things to Do in Gibraltar

While some of the top attractions come with entry fees (like the Upper Rock Nature Reserve), I am here to tell you that you don’t need to spend much to experience the magic of Gibraltar. Here are my favourite free things to do in Gibraltar, tried and tested from my wanderings.

1. Watch the Sunset at Europa Point

The southernmost tip of Gibraltar is entirely free to access, and it’s one of the best sunset spots I have ever found.

You can walk along the seafront promenade, see the Trinity Lighthouse, and gaze across the Strait of Gibraltar to Morocco on a clear day. There are also the Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque, Harding’s Battery, Sikorski Memorial, and Shrine of Our Lady of Europa.dy of Europa.

Tip: Bring snacks and stay for golden hour. The sky turns orange-pink, and it’s pure magic.

2. Meet the Famous Barbary Macaques

Yes, everyone goes to see the monkeys—but did you know you can spot them without paying for the nature reserve ticket?

Take a cable car ride (£19 for adults) to the Upper Station/Top of Rock Station. You will likely find a few macaques lounging on railings, climbing signs, or stealing food. Also, enjoy the stunning views of Africa and Spain, the Strait of Gibraltar, and the Mediterranean Sea.

My tips:

• Go early in the morning or before sunset to enjoy the pleasant weather and to capture good photos.
• Keep your food and other belongings, such as glasses and a camera, out of their sight!
• Don’t carry purses and backpacks. Instead, use waist bags. Still, if you prefer a backpack, put it in front.
• Please don’t feed the monkeys because it’s prohibited.
• Observe the monkeys from a safe distance, especially if you are with kids.
• Read the road signs and instructions carefully!

3. Stroll Through the Gibraltar Botanic Gardens (The Alameda)

The Alameda Gardens are right near the base of the Rock. It is open daily and admission is free. This garden is the perfect place to unwind, surrounded by palm trees and a diverse array of subtropical plants and wildlife.

There’s a koi pond where you will find tortoises and fish. You may also catch a lizard soaking in the sun.

Tip: Find a bench to sit on and admire the scenery and views over the sea. It can also be a lovely inspiration for artistic endeavours, such as sketches, paintings, and storytelling.

4. Relax at Catalan Bay

This colourful fishing village on the east side of the Rock is often overlooked—and that’s precisely why I love it.

Catalan Bay is free to access and feels a world away from the tourist buzz of Main Street. You can walk barefoot on the sand, dip your toes in the sea, or sit under the pastel-hued buildings with a book. It’s the kind of place you can spend an hour doing absolutely nothing, and feel great about it.

Tip: If you’re here in the evening, take a walk north along the beach to Eastern Beach—often empty and perfect for a moonlit stroll.

5. Window Shopping Down the Main Street and Irish Town

Main Street in Gibraltar is lined with palm trees and bathed in Spanish sunshine, especially during summer. While it’s known for its duty-free shopping and inexpensive liquors, you don’t have to buy anything to enjoy its vibe.

Take a slow wander past the red telephone boxes, quirky souvenir stores, and alleyways filled with history. Listen to locals switch between English, Spanish, and Llanito (the local dialect), and stop by The Convent to see the Governor’s residence from the outside.

Tip: On weekdays around noon, you might catch the Changing of the Guard in Cathedral Square—entirely free and delightfully formal.

6. Step Inside Holy Buildings

Gibraltar is home to a fascinating diversity of religions, with places of worship representing Catholic, Anglican, Jewish, Muslim, and Hindu traditions.

You can step into:

• Cathedral of the Holy Trinity (Anglican)
• King’s Chapel
• Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned (Catholic)
• Sacred Heart Church (Gothic), in the upper part of the old town
• Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque at Europa Point
• Gibraltar Hindu Temple near Main Street.

They’re peaceful, welcoming, and prosperous in stories.

Tip: Dress modestly, respect customs, and ask the locals about the architectural details—you’ll get great insights.

7. Picnic in Commonwealth Park

If you need a green space to nap, sketch, or let the kids run wild, Commonwealth Park is your go-to. It’s near the city centre, beautifully landscaped with fountains, turtles, ducks, and shaded lawns.

Tip: It’s a terrific spot for a midday break between sightseeing and perfect for a picnic.

8. Hunt for Gibraltar’s Street Art

Walk through the Upper Town or along Line Wall Road, and you will find street murals, sculptures, and public art that tell the story of Gibraltar’s unique identity—British, Andalusian, and cosmopolitan.

The Street Art Walk event, featuring a diverse range of artistic creations, is set to launch soon in Irish Town. Keep an eye on this page for updates.

Tip: Download the Google Street Map for a self-guided art and history walk and follow the Heritage Trail markers.

9. Snap Epic Views for Free

Let’s be honest: one of Gibraltar’s biggest treasures is its views—and the good news is that most of them are free.

• Take a hike through road to the Rock of Gibraltar until Jews’ Gate for cliffside views. Note: Beyond this point, a ticket is required to enter the Upper Rock Nature Reserve.
• There are also contribution-based city tours: Walk the Rock 4 free to help people who can’t afford expensive walking tours.
• Watch planes land just meters from you at the Runway Walk. Also, read the story of the Cradle of History Monument at the end of the runway.

10. Explore Ocean Village

A lively marina filled with yachts, cafés, and waterfront bars. It’s a gorgeous place for a scenic stroll, especially at night when everything is lit up.

Tip: Go at sunset for the best atmosphere and photo opportunities.

11. Sit by Rosia Bay

Rosia Bay is Gibraltar’s only natural harbour. It holds historical importance as the place where the British Navy brought Admiral Nelson’s body aboard HMS Victory after the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. It’s calm, historical, and scenic.

Tip: Take a seat by the rocks and watch the waves crash. It’s especially quiet in the morning.

12. Wander Through Irish Town

Despite its name, Irish Town is a historic pedestrian street known for its quirky architecture, painted façades, and hidden alleys—a delight for photographers and curious wanderers.

Tip: Look up as you walk—there are some beautiful old balconies and details.

13. Step Into the Garrison Library Courtyard

While the library itself may not always be open to walk-ins, the courtyard is usually accessible. It’s a quiet, beautiful space steeped in colonial history and shaded by old trees.

Tip: Peek through the wrought-iron gates and admire the architecture even if the gates are closed.

Recommended read: 1. Gibraltar 3-day Itinerary on a Budget | Detailed Gibraltar Travel Guide

2. How to Spend One Day in Gibraltar | What to Do

✨ Final Thoughts

Gibraltar surprised me. I came expecting a quirky border town and left feeling like I had visited a micro-world full of wonder, without having to empty my wallet.

These free experiences will give you a genuine taste of Gibraltar’s soul without spending too much: the landscapes, the people, the stories, and the sea breeze that never quite leaves your skin.