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Irene Clunie, Short Break Specialist

"Just 20 miles north of Africa, the unique peninsula of Gibraltar offers a variety of quirky and stunning sites. At the heart of its famous Rock lie more than 150 caves, many of which can be explored. Above ground, find out more about the peninsula’s past at the Gibraltar Museum or climb the Mediterranean Steps, part of the Upper Rock Nature Preserve, for picturesque views over the straits and beyond."

Gibraltar at a glance

Gibraltar, or The Rock as it is often called, is a British territory on the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula. Steeped in history and offering astonishing scenery, it’s a unique holiday destination for sun, sea and a historic blend of cultures.

Known as the gateway to the Mediterranean, Gibraltar is part of a popular Greek myth that claims it is one of the Pillars of Hercules. Its Rock, rising a dramatic 426 metres above the sea, dominates the horizon on the strait between Spain and Morocco and is famed for its population of Barbary Macaques, the only wild monkeys found in Europe.

Unique in every way, Gibraltar oozes Britishness, offering comforting pub food and afternoon tea along with delicious Spanish cuisine. For breathtaking views and wild monkey spotting, take a ride up The Rock by cable car, which is highly recommended. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle then visit the Alameda Botanic Gardens for picturesque scenes of lush greenery dotted with pretty flowers. 

Perfect if you’re looking for:

  • Sun and sea
  • Culture and history
  • Picturesque setting

Getting around

Gibraltar has a public bus network that operates a number of different routes on the island.

A cable car operates from the city centre to the top of the Rock, offering spectacular views and an up close glimpse of the famous Barbary Macaques.

Shopping

A variety of British and internationally recognised shops can be found on the pedestrianised Main Street where expats often flock to stock up on British comforts.

At the end of Main Street is Casemate Square, known for its shops selling hand crafted Gibraltar Crystal and its display centre where you can see how the crystal is made.

Gibraltar is a VAT free jurisdiction, offering good value for money.

Dining in Gibraltar

The cuisine of the Gibraltarians is a reflection of their cultural relationship with Andalusian Spaniards and the British, creating a Mediterranean marriage of tastes and dishes.

Must-try local dishes:

  • Rosto – a pasta dish made up of penne in a tomato sauce with beef or pork, mushrooms and carrots
  • Calentita – a pancake like bread made of chickpea flour, water, olive oil, salt and pepper
  • Bollo de hornasso – a sweet, dry bread made with flour, sugar, eggs, butter and aniseed usually eaten around Christmas

Get your tailor-made city break itinerary

Osprey Holidays can create a fabulous short break to Gibraltar designed completely around your needs. We can arrange whatever you need, including:

  • All travel and transfers on days of your choice
  • Accommodation from our handpicked range of Gibraltar hotels, to suit your budget and requirements

Our award-winning team can provide expert advice and recommendations, from general questions to tiny details. Contact us now for your tailor-made itinerary.

Important information
Languages English
Currency Pounds Sterling
Visa Information No visa required for UK citizens
Average temperatures

(monthly highs °C)

Interesting facts

Make sure you visit St Michael's Cave to see a breathtaking illustration of what water and time can do to limestone!

Featured accommodation
Distance from airports
Gibraltar International Airport 1 km

Things to do in Gibraltar

  • The Rock of Gibraltar: Gibraltar’s most famous landmark - take a ride up by cable car for stunning views or to see the Barbary apes.
  • Trafalgar Cemetery: Well preserved graveyard featuring gravestones from some who died in the battle of Trafalgar - a peaceful haven in the city.
  • Gibraltar Museum: Museum charting the history of Gibraltar
  • Alameda Botanic Gardens: Quiet and tranquil landscaped gardens with a variety of flowers, plants, birds and insects. Well worth a visit.

Tours and Excursions

Gibraltar Rock Tour

In a small group, accompanied by a professional guide, take a tour round The Rock and enjoy magnificent views of Gibraltar and beyond. The tour includes visits to Europa Point, St Michael’s Cave, once thought to be the entrance to Hades, with its impressive stalactites and stalagmites, and Ape’s Den where you can see the famous Barbary macaques and find out about their history on The Rock.

Dolphin Watching

See Gibraltar’s wild dolphins on a responsible dolphin watching tour with on-board marine biologist. The crew will take you on a tour with incredible views of The Rock of Gibraltar, Spain and North Africa and use their experience to determine where the dolphins are likely to be playing each day. Although not guaranteed, sightings are very common, and you could find yourself among a pod of dolphins of 200 or more!

Gibraltar Gin Experience

Visit Gibraltar’s only distillery and spend a fun and informative hour learning about the history of gin and the gin making process as well as some local history. This is accompanied by a tasting of 6 different gins and advice on how to find your perfect tipple. The experience ends with a gin based cocktail and some time to chat with your host.

We would be happy to arrange an excursion for you. To discuss options with a member of our knowledgeable team or to book, please contact us on 0131 243 8098.