Location & Transportation
The port features a range of facilities including telephones, a bar/cafeteria, arts and craft shops, display areas, and a Gibraltar Tourist Board Information office. Cruise ships dock about 1.5 km from town—a pleasant 15-minute walk. If you’d rather not walk, shuttles (mostly mini vans) are available from the port (around £3 one-way or £4 return) and taxis are also on hand at roughly £4 per person one-way.
Sightseeing
When you first see the Rock of Gibraltar, its impressive stature, isolated and towering above the surrounding countryside, makes for an unforgettable sight. Gibraltar is very compact—less than 7 square kilometers—so you can explore most of it on foot. Keep in mind that some roads, especially those leading up to the Upper Rock, are quite steep; a taxi can help if you prefer a more relaxed ascent. A few highlights include:
- The very short runway with its car-accessible tunnel, where pedestrians and e-scooters cross to get amazing views.
- Learning that the name Gibraltar is a Spanish version of an Arabic term meaning "mountain of Tariq."
Tours & Excursions
- The cable car to the Upper Rock runs daily from 9:30 am until 5:45 pm. A "cable car and apes" ticket costs around £16 return. If you’d like to include entry to St. Michael's Cave and explore the Siege Tunnels, opt for a combined ticket (note that a bit of walking and climbing is involved).
- Alternatively, consider a 'Taxi-Tour' (typically for a group of about 8 in an MPV) for roughly £31 for a 1.5-hour tour. This often includes entry fees to St. Michael's Cave, the tunnels, and the Upper Rock.
- From the cable car top station, a 20-minute walk downhill leads you to St. Michael's Cave, an impressive network of chambers used for concerts, weddings, and other events.
- Thrill-seekers should check out the brand-new 71-meter-long suspension bridge that spans a 50-meter-deep gorge at Anglian Way.
- For history enthusiasts, the Gibraltar National Museum offers fascinating insights into Gibraltar’s storied past.
- Note: Although Spain is very close, crossing the border can be challenging due to cumbersome controls and frequent traffic jams.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
Main Street—about a kilometer long with its adjoining lanes and byways—offers a large selection of goods with a truly British character, including duty-free options. Here are a few tips:
- Shops typically open between 9:00 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. on weekdays and offer half days on Saturdays, with many closed on Sundays.
- You might find better deals on tobacco in duty-free shops aboard your ship, and alcohol is very affordable in Gibraltar.
Dining
Main Street and its side lanes feature a variety of restaurants and cafés that reflect Gibraltar’s blend of British and Mediterranean influences. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty pub meal or local seafood, there’s plenty to choose from. I recommend exploring the eateries along Main Street for a taste of traditional dishes with a local twist.
Culture & Local Events
- Currency & Payments: The local currency is the Gibraltar pound (GIP), which is on par with the British pound. While Euros are accepted in many places, it’s best to use Sterling as the exchange rates for Euros can be less favorable. Remember that Gibraltarian notes and coins are not legal tender in the UK.
- Language: Locals speak both English and Spanish, so chances are you'll easily communicate and enjoy local hospitality.
- Public Holidays & Opening Hours: Shops generally open from 9:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on weekdays and have reduced hours on Saturdays, with many closing on Sundays. For a list of public holidays, you can check the Time and Date Calendar.
- Local Events: Gibraltar may be small, but it hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year. These events often highlight Gibraltar’s rich history and the unique fusion of Mediterranean and British cultures.
- Safety & Awareness: While enjoying your visit, keep an eye on your belongings—especially around the lively areas where the famous Barbary macaques roam. These apes are known to nip at unattended items, so it’s best to be cautious if you’re carrying valuables.