Gibraltar
Welcome to your cosy little corner of the internet for everything you need to explore Gibraltar with confidence as a solo female traveller! Here you’ll find all of my best Gibraltar travel tips, detailed itineraries, and travel guides to help you plan your trip.
Planning A Trip to Gibraltar? start here:
KEY FACTS ABOUT GIBRALTAR
→ Language: English (Spanish is also spoken widely)
→ Currency: Gibraltar Pound (but you can also use British Pounds)
→ Timezone: Central European Time (CET)
→ Plug Type: Type G (UK 3-pin)
→ Emergency Numbers: Fire: 190, Police: 199 & 112, Ambulance: 190
→ Solo Travel Vibe: Welcoming, feels very safe, is extremely walkable.
WHY GIBRALTAR IS PERFECT FOR SOLO TRAVEL
If you’re trying to decide whether Gibraltar is worth visiting solo – do it! Honestly, this tiny British Overseas Territory, tucked at the bottom of Spain, is one of the most underrated solo travel destinations in Europe. It’s walkable, English-speaking and super safe, which instantly takes a lot of the stress out of solo travel.
Plus, there’s something really special about how compact Gibraltar is – everything is close, so you can fill your itinerary with nature, beaches, history, boat trips and cute cafés – all without ever needing to rent a car or figure out confusing public transport!
And as someone who actually moved to Gibraltar for a year after my own solo trip, I can tell you this from a local’s perspective: the people are so friendly, the vibe is relaxed all year round and there’s a unique mix of cultures that is so fascinating to experience. Gibraltar truly is a one-of-a-kind travel destination.
So whether you want to watch the planes land just metres away from Eastern Beach, hike (or cable car!) up the Rock to meet Gibraltar’s famous macaques, or sip a drink in Ocean Village as the sun sets, Gibraltar is definitely worth a spot on your itinerary.
MY TOP GIBRALTAR SOLO TRAVEL TIPS
- Stay central – Gibraltar is very walkable, but staying near Main Street, Ocean Village or Queensway Quay means you’re close to cafés, restaurants and all the key sights. I felt so much more comfortable staying here solo than I did near Europa Point or in Upper Rock.
- Carry your passport – Gibraltar’s border with Spain is walkable. So if you fancy a spontaneous (and more affordable!) tapas lunch in La Linea, you’ll need your passport.
- Don’t feed the macaques – Also, just don’t get too close to them. Period. If you do, they will try to unzip your bag (or just steal it). Stay calm if they get curious. And keep snacks tucked away or, better yet, just don’t bring a bag!
- Use the bus system – Buses are the safest and easiest way to get to further out spots like Europa Point. Plus, they’re very reliable and cost-effective. The Number 2 and 3 buses will get you to most key spots without any stress.
- Solo beach days? Yes please! – Eastern Beach and Camp Bay are great for a swim or sunbathing. There are lifeguards in season and the vibe is very relaxed.
BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN GIBRALTAR
Here are my tried-and-true favourites that every solo traveller should visit in Gibraltar:
Top of the Rock – Hike the Med Steps or take the cable car up to the iconic Rock of Gibraltar for panoramic views of Europe and Africa. The macaques are mischievous, so (ideally) don’t bring snacks but honestly, it’s so cool seeing them in their natural habitat.
St. Michael’s Cave – An absolute must-see in Gibraltar! This stunning natural cavern is lit with dramatic colours that you can’t help but marvel at. And if you can? Try to see a concert or even a comedy show in the cave!
Europa Point – The southernmost tip of Gibraltar. You’ll find a lighthouse, incredible views of Morocco on clear days and the impressive Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque.
Alameda Botanic Gardens (my favourite!) – This truly was my happy place when I was living in Gibraltar and it is so often overlooked by tourists. Wander through the exotic plants and spend time sitting and doing nothing on one of the many quiet benches. Also don’t miss the tiny wildlife park inside – it’s small but so special, home to rescued animals from the slave trade.
Eastern Beach – Flat, sandy and a favourite among locals. Eastern Beach is by far the best beach for plane spotting. Seriously, you’ll literally see flights landing just behind you – it’s super cool!
FAQS ABOUT SOLO TRAVEL IN GIBRALTAR
Is it safe to travel alone in Gibraltar as a woman?
Yes, absolutely! Gibraltar is one of the safest solo travel destinations I’ve ever travelled to. Crime rates are very low and as a solo female traveller (and also later as a local), I never felt uneasy walking around, even in the evenings. English is the main language, public areas are well-lit and locals are incredibly helpful. Having said that, like anywhere in Europe, you should still take the usual precautions: don’t leave your bag unattended, keep valuables zipped away, avoid overly remote areas after dark… You know the drill!
What’s the best time to visit Gibraltar?
The best time to visit Gibraltar is April to June or September to early November. These shoulder months offer sunshine, warmth and fewer crowds – ideal for exploring solo without the high-season overwhelm!
Summer (July–August) is hot and busy, especially when cruise ships dock, so expect much higher prices and packed attractions if you choose to visit during this time.
Winter (December–February) is mild but much quieter. You won’t always get beach weather, but you’ll still likely get blue skies and the joy of having Gibraltar (almost) to yourself!
Can I visit Gibraltar on a budget?
Yes, Gibraltar can be done on a budget, but you will need to be savvy because the territory is notoriously expensive. Accommodation is the priciest part, so I recommend booking early or even staying across the border in La Linea (although be aware that it isn’t the safest neighbourhood). Food-wise, you’ll find plenty of affordable takeaways, bakeries and supermarket options – Gibraltar has a Morrisons! Most attractions are walkable and the beaches and gardens are totally free.
How to get to Gibraltar?
There are a few easy ways to get to Gibraltar, depending on where you’re coming from:
By Air: Gibraltar has its own airport, with daily direct flights from major airports in the UK like London, Manchester and Bristol. The airport is then just a short walk from town across the runway (yes, really!), so it’s super convenient for solo travellers.
From Spain: Many people (myself and my family included) fly into Malaga for cheaper flights. Malaga is about 1hr 45min away by car) or you can take the bus to La Linea de la Concepcion, then simply walk across the border.
By Bus: From Spanish cities like Malaga or Seville, you can take a bus to La Linea and then walk into Gibraltar.
A FINAL NOTE
I hope this little Gibraltar hub has helped you feel excited (and well prepared!) to plan your own adventure to this quirky British Overseas Territory. Whether you’re taking the cable car to the Top of the Rock for iconic views, plane-spotting on the beach, or relaxing in the Alameda Botanic Gardens, I promise this tiny territory has so much waiting for you!
→ Still have questions? You can always send me an email. 💌
