Is Gibraltar Worth Visiting? 11 Insights From a Local
Wondering is Gibraltar worth visiting and not totally convinced yet? I get it! Gibraltar is small, it looks a bit random on the map and honestly, between the airport runway you literally walk across and the wild monkeys that might steal your lunch, it can feel like a bit of an odd destination for a holiday.
But that’s exactly why I think it deserves a closer look, especially if you’re a solo female traveller wanting something a bit different for your next trip, but still want to feel safe and like your time (and money!) is being well spent.
And no, I’m not writing this post from just a few hours of Googling, either. I used to live in Gibraltar. I know the best beaches the locals actually swim at, the spots no tour ever includes, and the best way to walk into Gibraltar without wasting time (yes, I did say walk in – we’ll get to that!)
In this guide, I’ll share 11 honest insights only a local could give – from what Gibraltar’s really like, to whether it’s too expensive, too touristy, or actually just right. Let’s get to it!
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Where is Gibraltar?
Let’s start with the basics, shall we? Because Gibraltar tends to confuse people straight from the map.
Gibraltar is a tiny British Overseas Territory at the very southern tip of Spain, right at the entrance to the Mediterranean. It shares a land border with Spain, sits opposite Morocco across the sea, but is technically British.
And it may be only 2.6 square miles, but don’t let its size fool you, because Gibraltar packs a lot into its tiny territory. You’ll hear British accents right next to Spanish ones, see red phone boxes on streets with Andalusian-style architecture and spend your days switching between beaches, monkeys and the Top of The Rock – all within walking distance!
So if you’re wondering is Gibraltar worth visiting?, I would argue that knowing where it is and why it’s so unique is the first part of your answer.
Katie’s Top Tip: You can fly directly into Gibraltar from airports across the UK, but it’s cheaper (and more flexible) to fly into Malaga and then take a bus, taxi or drive down the coast and cross the border on foot. It takes around 2 hours and the drive via the coastal road is stunning.
Why Is Gibraltar Worth Visiting?
Okay, let’s get straight into it. In short: yes, Gibraltar is worth visiting for most travellers. But it depends what you’re looking for.
Gibraltar isn’t a sprawling resort town or a nightlife hub. Instead, it’s for you if you love slightly quirky, under-the-radar destinations, coastal views and unique cultural mashups you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
To give you a little taster, you can hike (or take the cable car) to the top of the Rock in the morning, go dolphin-spotting in the afternoon and eat fresh seafood in Ocean Village at sunset – all on foot!
So, to help you decide if Gibraltar is right for your next trip, let’s walk through 11 reasons why I think Gibraltar is absolutely worth your time.
1. It’s Unlike Anywhere Else in Europe
This is the first thing that will hit you as soon as you arrive – Gibraltar doesn’t feel like anywhere else in Europe. It’s not quite British, not quite Spanish and not quite Mediterranean either. Instead it’s this wonderful, quirky hybrid that can sound a bit strange on paper but somehow makes sense once you’re there.
I mean, where else can you be ordering fish and chips from a pub, five minutes after crossing a runway on foot, with views of Africa in the distance?!
And the blend of cultures is clear as soon as you step into Gibraltar’s territory. It’s in the language, the food, the architecture and even the pace of life. It’s also one of the few places in Europe where you’ll find English spoken everywhere, prices in pounds sterling and, often, that familiar UK-style plug socket (which is always a win for Brits abroad!)
As a solo female traveller who has travelled 24+ countries in Europe, Gibraltar stood out to me because it didn’t actively try to impress. It just was what it was. No pretences. A little charming. Very unique. Genuinely memorable.
I mean, I ended up deciding to move there after my few weeks’ holiday, right?! I think that says a lot about the charm of the place!
So if you’re after cookie-cutter, traditional Mediterranean vibes, Gibraltar might not be it for you. But if you want to experience a place and a culture that you’ve definitely never seen before, you’re in the right place!
Katie’s Top Tip: Wander through the backstreets off Main Street and into the streets of the Upper Rock. This area shows Gibraltar’s true, lived-in side, with a fascinating mix of colonial architecture as the streets wind up to the Top of The Rock nature reserve. It’s so different from the polished centre and makes you feel like you’ve stepped into someone’s real life, rather than the touristy version of Gibraltar you’ll see in guidebooks.
2. You Can Walk Across an International Airport Runway
No, this isn’t a gimmick. You can (and have to) walk across Gibraltar’s airport runway to enter the country on foot from Spain – and yes, planes still land at that airport on the daily!
There’s even a simple traffic light and barrier system (like the one for trains) that stops pedestrians and cars when a plane is about to take off or land. It’s honestly one of the most surreal (and weirdly fun) border crossings you’ll ever do!
But, a quick caveat: this is a live runway and a military area – not a tourist destination. So while it’s super fun and memorable to walk across and even snap a quick photo or two, remember to stick to the designated walkways, take note of the traffic lights and don’t hold up commuters to pose for photos.
That being said, there’s definitely something thrilling about walking across an international border and immediately being greeted with those famous views of the Rock from across a live runway.
I still remember the very first time I walked across, watching in awe as the Rock loomed closer as I walked, before looking across to the plane I had just arrived on as it filled up with passengers for the return flight back to London. Surreal!
Katie’s Top Tip: Time your border crossing with the flight schedule (you can check it online here!) to avoid delays. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a plane taking off while you’re waiting at the barrier. It’s so incredible to watch from so close!
3. It’s One of the Safest Solo Travel Destinations in Europe
Let’s be honest, solo female travel is amazing, but solo travel safety is and will always be a niggling consideration for us.
So let me put your mind at rest on that, because Gibraltar is genuinely one of the places where I’ve felt safest in the whole of Europe, even walking alone at night. And I say that both from my experience as a tourist and as a local. It’s small, familiar-feeling and very easy to navigate on foot, with plenty of English signage to guide you.
I also never experienced any kind of harassment from strangers during my time in Gibraltar, even when walking through the estates (which, to be honest, most tourists wouldn’t visit anyway). Most local people are friendly, helpful and used to visitors, but also keep to themselves and respect boundaries.
Plus, because of Gibraltar’s compact size, everything is within easy reach, so you’re never too far from help if you need it. The crime rate here is also low (especially violent crime), and there’s a strong police presence without it feeling intimidating.
Having said that, like anywhere in Europe, Gibraltar is not immune to petty theft and there is the odd drug-related incident due to the proximity to Morocco, so keep your usual solo travel safety habits in place. But overall, I felt safe enough to call Gibraltar my home and you should be just fine during your trip if you trust your gut!
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re still a bit nervous about safety, my only suggestion would be to avoid Upper Rock, the estates and Eastside after dark. Don’t get me wrong, they’re not unsafe areas, but there’s less lighting and less tourists/locals out and about. For evening walks and for your accommodation, stick to the areas around Ocean Village, Queensway or Main Street – they’re all well-lit, social and safe!
4. It’s Tiny – But That’s Part of its Charm!
Gibraltar is just 2.6 square miles. Yep, I know, that’s smaller than some airport terminals! But for solo travellers, that compact size is part of what makes it such a hidden gem in Europe.
You can walk from the Spanish border or Gibraltar airport, through the town centre, up to the Rock, down to Eastern Beach (my favourite!) and finish at an Ocean Village restaurant in one afternoon (although I’d definitely recommend spreading it out).
There’s no faffing with Ubers, metros, trams, trains or hour-long detours to reach that one picture-perfect viewpoint – it’s all just right there. Plus, Gibraltar doesn’t have any of that anyway.
But if you don’t fancy the walk at any point during your trip – for example to get down to Europa Point – Gibraltar also has a reliable and affordable local bus and taxi system.
This walkability makes Gibraltar feel very manageable as a tourist. You’ll never really feel lost, isolated or like you’re having to waste loads of time figuring out complicated transport maps. And as someone who has spent a lot of time in big cities like Paris and Rome, I will never take that for granted!
Katie’s Top Tip: Download the offline Google Map of Gibraltar before you arrive, to help you navigate the town, viewpoints, beaches and walking routes like a pro. Believe me, as an ex local, that was my only secret for knowing how to get around straight away!
5. Yes, the Monkeys Are Real – And Wild
If you’ve heard anything about Gibraltar, you’ve probably heard about the monkeys of Gibraltar – and yes, I can confirm they’re 100% real and genuinely wild. Plus they’re also a big deal around here, as the legend goes that if they ever left Gibraltar, the territory would cease to be British.
These famous monkeys are actually Barbary Macaques that live on the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. They are Europe’s only wild monkey population, and kind of the unofficial mascots of the territory.
But let me be very real with you here: they’re cute… until they’re not.
These macaques are clever, bold and not remotely shy. They know tourists carry snacks, and they will absolutely unzip your bag, jump on you or even snatch your sunglasses if you’re not careful. It doesn’t matter if your snacks are packaged or even if you don’t have any snacks at all – any bag (particularly rucksacks) is fair game to them.
I once watched a macaque knock a bag out of an unsuspecting tourists’ hands, rifle through it and then disappear with a sealed packet of crisps into the depths of the Nature Reserve.
She lost a couple of other more personal items to the undergrowth, too. Which is another thing to mention: keep any valuables in a small crossbody or belt bag that’s secure around your body. If something goes over the edge and into the undergrowth it’s almost impossible to get it back.
But Katie, this guide is meant to be sharing reasons to go to Gibraltar?! Not reasons put me off!
I’m sorry! I promise I’m not saying any of this to scare you or put you off, but I do think it’s important to be informed. As long as you keep bags zipped, don’t get too close and don’t panic if they approach you, you’ll be just fine. I’ve taken plenty of family and friends up the Rock and this is word-for-word the exact advice I give them, and we’ve never had any issues.
The flip side to this is that seeing the macaques in their natural environment is an amazing experience. They’re hilarious to watch and the babies clinging to their mums are the cutest thing you’ll ever see. Just remember that they’re wild animals, not theme park props or zoo animals – and that in itself is a big part of what makes Gibraltar so memorable!
Katie’s Top Tip: Stay at least a few metres away from the macaques at all times and, if you can, don’t take any bags up to the Top of The Rock at all. If you’re nervous, go with a local guide – they’ll help you navigate the chaotic macaque zones (yep, those exist!) like Apes Den. Although, on the contrary, if you want to guarantee that you’ll see the macaques, Apes Den is exactly where you should head. I’ll let you make up your own mind!
6. It’s Packed with History
For such a tiny place, Gibraltar has lived a lot of history. From ancient natural caves and Moorish castles to 18th-century sieges and WWII tunnels, it’s a bit of a time capsule. You’ll find remnants of British colonial rule next to Spanish street names, and military fortifications carved straight into the rock.
So if you’re wondering is Gibraltar worth visiting from a cultural or historical perspective, my answer is a definite yes. You can explore St. Michael’s Cave (now used for truly unique concerts and events!), walk through the Great Siege Tunnels dug out by hand in the 1700s, explore the underrated WWII tunnels, wander to the Moorish Castle for panoramic sea views, and so much more!
But what I love most is that you don’t need to be a history enthusiast to enjoy it all. Gibraltar makes its history feel alive, with fascinating exhibitions and museums, but also just by wandering the streets. There are little plaques on walls and old, imposing gun batteries throughout the territory. You’ll probably learn more spending a couple of days in Gibraltar than you ever did in a history class – plus it’s way more fun!
Katie’s Top Tip: Buy the combined Nature Reserve ticket. It includes access to the Skywalk, caves, tunnels and more, and saves you money versus paying separately. If you’re on a tight schedule, prioritise the WWII tunnels. They’re fascinating to walk through and a lot less developed than the Great Siege Tunnels, for a more raw and authentic experience.
7. You’ll Get Some of the Best Views in Europe
Gibraltar’s views are next level. Standing at the top of the Rock, you’ll see three countries – Spain, Morocco and Gibraltar (the UK), two continents, two seas and an international airport from above. It’s both surreal and utterly stunning!
And the best part is that you don’t need to do a full-on hike to enjoy the scenery (unless you want to, of course!) so the best of Gibraltar’s viewpoints are accessible to all abilities and ages.
You can take the cable car up and walk along the Skywalk, which is a glass viewing platform perched above the nature reserve. Or you can take on the challenging Mediterranean “Med” Steps climb, which winds dramatically up the Rock. It’s totally up to you!
But just a quick note about the Med Steps: don’t underestimate how challenging the climb to the Top of The Rock is – it’s uneven, steep, narrow… So it’s important that you have a good level of fitness, take plenty of water and wear proper shoes. This route is not for the faint-hearted!
Or, if you want to stay at ground level and still experience some breath-taking views, the sunset (or just views in general) at Europa Point, aka the southernmost tip of Gibraltar, is absolutely stunning and well worth a visit.
Katie’s Top Tip: Go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid both cruise ship crowds and the heat. Trust me, that midday sun is no joke on the Top of The Rock as there is little to no shade up there.
8. The Food is Surprisingly Diverse
You might not expect much from such a small place, but Gibraltar’s food scene is one of the most underrated parts of the trip. Thanks to its unique blend of cultures, you’ll find everything from British pub grub and Spanish tapas to Moroccan tagines and Indian curries.
It’s a true reflection of the people who live here and in the surrounding areas – plus it’s genuinely tasty!
There’s a strong café culture here too. During my time as a local, I used to spend a lot of slow mornings sipping a smoothie in Casemates Square or sitting with my journal by the water in Ocean Village, watching the boats go by.
As a solo female traveller, I also never felt out of place eating alone here. Restaurants are super casual and service is friendly without being pushy.
And if you’re on a budget, don’t worry either! There are plenty of cheap eats, from taking a homemade picnic to the beach from supermarkets like The Food Co (my favourite supermarket when I was there) or Morrisons (the cheapest supermarket), to grabbing takeaway fish and chips from Gibraltar staple, Roy’s!
Katie’s Top Tip: For food delivery, use the app Hungry Monkey. They’re efficient, offer Gibraltar’s most delicious restaurants (and some supermarkets), and are relatively affordable.
9. There’s a Curious Sense of Identity Here
One of the most fascinating things about Gibraltar is just how layered its identity and culture feels. You’ve got British red phone boxes and pubs, but they sit beside Moorish architecture, with a Mediterranean climate. You’ll hear English and Spanish used interchangeably, sometimes mid-sentence (aka Spanglish – yes, that’s a thing!) And local people here don’t just identify as British – they’re proudly Gibraltarian, but with a strong sense of belonging to the UK.
As a visitor to the territory, this culture is something really special and unique to experience. Gibraltar’s unique blend of cultures, languages and politics gives it an identity that’s unlike anywhere else in the world.
And I’m definitely not a huge lover of museums or learning absolutely everything there is to know about the history of a place, but even I found it genuinely fascinating to learn about the region’s complex history (including the centuries of contested rule), and how that’s shaped modern Gibraltarian life today.
Katie’s Top Tip: Want a real glimpse into Gibraltarian identity? Time your visit with Gibraltar National Day on September 10th. The territory turns into a sea of red and white, the locals enjoy a Bank Holiday, there are events and speeches in Casemates square and there’s even a spectacular fireworks display in the evening!
10. It’s a Great Base for Day Trips
If you’re short on time and want to see a mix of countries, coastlines and cultures, Gibraltar is a great base. You can wake up in British Gibraltar, cross the border to have tapas in Spain by lunchtime, and be back watching the sunset over Morocco from Europa Point by evening!
Its location at the southern tip of Europe, just a hop away from the Spanish Costa del Sol, means there’s loads of possibilities for fun and easy day trips.
Popular nearby destinations include Tarifa (great for beaches and kitesurfing), Ronda (a stunning hilltop town), and even Seville or Malaga if you get an early start. You can also take a ferry across to Tangier in Morocco.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re planning a day trip to Spain, don’t forget your passport, especially as the post-Brexit agreement is still being finalised as of June 2025.
11. But It’s Not for Everyone – and That’s OK
Gibraltar isn’t trying to be a glossy Mediterranean escape, and it doesn’t pretend to be anything it’s not. It’s gritty in places. Extravagant in others. Some areas feel a bit dated. Some areas are full of high-rise apartment blocks that are home to some of the world’s wealthiest. So if you’re after a quintessential beach break, exciting nightlife or even a traditional city break, you might feel a bit underwhelmed. And that’s totally fair.
Gibraltar is anything but traditional – and that’s what makes it so fun to visit! And if you value experience over what’s on the surface, I just know you’ll find Gibraltar to be an incredible travel destination.
It’s safe, easy to navigate, culturally diverse and compact enough to explore in a day or two. It’s also a very solo travel friendly destination, which is why I believe that yes, Gibraltar is worth visiting, especially for solo female travellers. But it’s also not going to be the perfect destination for everyone, and that’s ok too. Not every place has to be.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re unsure whether Gibraltar is the right fit for your trip, consider spending a week in the area and pairing it with another nearby destination. You can do day trips to Gibraltar from Seville, from Malaga, from Fuengirola, from Torremolinos, from Benalmadena and from Cadiz.
Gibraltar FAQ
When’s the best time to visit Gibraltar?
Spring (April to early June) and autumn (September to October) are without doubt the best times to visit Gibraltar. The weather is warm but not unbearable, it’s usually sunny (aside from the occasional levanter cloud!) and the crowds are way more manageable than in the peak of summer. You’ll still get those iconic views from the Rock without having to queue for ages to get on the cable car or dodge big cruise ship tour groups.
Summer (especially July and August) is uncomfortably hot and overwhelmed with tourists. Winter is still mild and quiet, but some attractions scale back hours and the vibe isn’t as lively.
Is Gibraltar expensive to visit?
In a word? Yes. But it also depends on how you travel. Gibraltar has UK-style prices (think £15 for a pub main course, £100+ a night for a decent hotel), which can feel steep compared to neighbouring Spain. But there are ways to soften the financial burden, like the fact that walking is free (and almost all of the territory is walkable.) Plus, many of the top sights (Europa Point, Alameda Botanical Garden, the beaches…) are outdoors and free.
What is Gibraltar known for?
Most people know Gibraltar for the Rock, with its wild monkeys, WWII tunnels and unbeatable views across two continents. But there’s so much more to it than that. Gibraltar is famous for its blend of cultures, its fascinating military history and, perhaps more controversially, its status as a tax haven.
If you want my advice? Don’t just stick to the Rock’s Nature Reserve. Visit the streets around Main Street, take a picnic to the Alameda Botanic Gardens and soak up the views from Europa Point to really get a feel for what Gibraltar is all about.
What are the best things to do in Gibraltar?
Let’s start with the obvious: take the cable car or hike up the Rock for panoramic views, meet the macaques (from a respectful distance!), and explore the WWII Tunnels, Great Siege Tunnels and St. Michael’s Cave.
From there, get off the beaten path. Stroll through Main Street for some shopping, visit the Gibraltar Museum for some fascinating local history, marvel at the view from Europa Point, visit Alameda Botanic Gardens and its tiny animal sanctuary… The possibilities for things to do in Gibraltar are truly limitless!
What’s the best way to visit Gibraltar?
The easiest and safest way to visit Gibraltar is to stay centrally (or just across the border in Spain), explore on foot and use Gibraltar’s efficient bus system if needed. As a solo female traveller, I found Gibraltar extremely manageable – it feels safe, the local people are English-speaking and it’s very easy to navigate.
You can fly directly into Gibraltar from the UK, or take a bus or taxi to La Linea (from Malaga, Seville, etc) and just walk across the border. The pedestrian crossing is (mostly!) efficient and well signposted and passport control is (usually!) smooth.
So, Is Gibraltar Worth Visiting?
Yes. Absolutely. But maybe not for the reasons you’d expect. It’s not the most traditional solo female travel destination. It’s certainly not the cheapest. And it won’t be everyone’s idea of a dream trip. But if you’re a solo female traveller looking for somewhere safe, unique, unexpectedly diverse and memorable – Gibraltar is a gem worth adding to your solo travel bucket list!
But if you’re still unsure, perhaps try treating Gibraltar as a detour destination rather than a final destination for your trip. You could stay a few nights during a trip through Southern Spain. Enjoy a long weekend from the UK. Visit for the day on a cruise ship. Or even visit for the day from nearby cities like Malaga or Marbella…
But however you visit Gibraltar, I hope you have the best time! Happy travels!
So, what do you think? Is Gibraltar worth visiting and on your solo travel bucket list? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
