Welcome to Gibraltar

Gibraltar, often referred to as "The Rock," is a British Overseas Territory located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula. Known for its iconic limestone ridge, rich history, and strategic location where Europe meets Africa, Gibraltar is a fascinating destination with a blend of British and Mediterranean cultures. Cruise passengers arriving in Gibraltar will find an array of attractions, from the famous Rock of Gibraltar to the charming town center. With 6-10 hours to explore, visitors can enjoy panoramic views, historical sites, and unique wildlife, all within easy reach of the port.

Cruise Docking Information

Cruise ships dock at the Gibraltar Cruise Terminal, located in the port area, just a short distance from the town center. The port is well-equipped and offers quick access to many of Gibraltar’s main attractions. The terminal is only 1.5 kilometers (1 mile) from Main Street, the heart of Gibraltar, making it convenient for passengers to explore the area on foot. Gibraltar is a popular cruise destination, welcoming over 300,000 passengers annually. The port area is easy to navigate, and transportation to other parts of the city is readily available.

Transportation Options

Gibraltar’s compact size and proximity of attractions make it easy to explore on foot, but there are also several transportation options for reaching more distant locations:

• Walking: The town center and popular sites like Main Street, Casemates Square, and the cable car station are all within a 15-20 minute walk from the cruise terminal.
• Taxis: Taxis are readily available at the terminal and offer set tours that take passengers to key sights like the Upper Rock, St. Michael’s Cave, and the Apes' Den.
• Public Buses: Gibraltar’s public buses connect the port to the town center and other key areas like Europa Point and the border with Spain. Fares are affordable, and buses run frequently.
• Cable Car: For a unique way to see Gibraltar, take the cable car from the town center to the top of the Rock for stunning panoramic views. A round-trip ticket costs around £17 per adult.

Nearby Towns and Cities

Gibraltar’s location at the southern tip of Europe makes it a great base for exploring nearby cities in both Spain and Africa:

• La Línea de la Concepción: 3 km (2 miles) away, about 10 minutes by car or bus. A Spanish border town known for its beaches and proximity to Gibraltar.
• Algeciras: 20 km (12 miles) away, about 30 minutes by car. A bustling port city with a lively market, ferry services to Morocco, and scenic coastal views.
• Tangier (Morocco): 60 km (37 miles) by ferry, about 1.5 hours. A popular day-trip destination, offering a taste of North African culture, with souks, kasbahs, and beautiful seaside views.

Local Foods

Gibraltar’s cuisine reflects its unique blend of British, Spanish, and North African influences. Be sure to try these local specialties:

• Calentita: A traditional Gibraltarian dish similar to Italian farinata, made from chickpea flour, water, and olive oil, baked into a savory pancake.
• Rosto: A pasta dish cooked with beef, onions, and tomatoes, reflecting the Italian influence in Gibraltar’s cuisine.
• Torta de Acelgas: A savory tart filled with spinach, eggs, and cheese, often served during celebrations.
• Fish and Chips: A British classic that is a popular dish in Gibraltar’s seaside restaurants.
• Moroccan Tagine: Given Gibraltar’s proximity to North Africa, Moroccan cuisine is widely available, with tagine (slow-cooked stews) being a popular choice.

Top 5 Attractions

Gibraltar is packed with fascinating attractions, from natural wonders to historical landmarks. Here are the top five must-see sites during your visit:

• The Rock of Gibraltar: The most iconic feature of Gibraltar, the Rock offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean, the Atlantic, and Africa. Visitors can reach the top via the cable car or by hiking.
• St. Michael’s Cave: A stunning limestone cave inside the Rock, filled with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is illuminated and often used for concerts and events. Entry is around £12 per adult.
• Apes' Den: Home to Gibraltar’s famous Barbary macaques, the only wild monkeys in Europe. Visitors can watch the monkeys in their natural habitat, but be sure not to feed them!
• The Great Siege Tunnels: A network of tunnels dug into the Rock during the 18th century, offering a glimpse into Gibraltar’s military history. Entry is around £10 per adult.
• Europa Point: The southernmost point of Gibraltar, offering views across the Strait of Gibraltar to Africa. Free to visit, it is also home to the iconic Trinity Lighthouse and the Mosque of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques.

Interesting Facts

Gibraltar is full of unique features and historical significance. Here are some interesting facts about this famous destination:

• Gibraltar has been a British territory since 1713, following the Treaty of Utrecht. Despite its small size, it remains an important military and strategic location.
• The Barbary macaques that live on the Rock are Europe’s only wild monkeys. Legend has it that as long as the monkeys remain, Gibraltar will stay under British control.
• Gibraltar’s airport is one of the most unusual in the world, with its runway crossing a busy main road that has to be closed when planes take off or land.

Geographical Position and Surroundings

Gibraltar is located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, at the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea. It is situated just 14 kilometers (9 miles) from the coast of North Africa, across the Strait of Gibraltar. The city is dominated by the Rock of Gibraltar, a 426-meter (1,398-foot) limestone ridge that towers over the town and offers stunning views in all directions. Gibraltar’s unique geographical position has made it a strategic military and maritime location for centuries, controlling access to the Mediterranean from the Atlantic Ocean.

Local Customs and Culture

Gibraltar’s culture is a unique blend of British, Spanish, and Mediterranean influences. English is the official language, but many locals also speak Spanish fluently. It’s common to greet people with a friendly “Hello” or “Hola.” British customs like afternoon tea are popular, as are Spanish traditions like tapas. Tipping in restaurants and cafes is appreciated, with 10% being the standard. Gibraltar has a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, and its duty-free shopping and cultural festivals, such as National Day in September, draw many visitors each year.

Family-Friendly Activities

Gibraltar offers plenty of activities for families with children of all ages:

• Children up to 6 years old: Visit Alameda Wildlife Conservation Park, where young children can see a variety of animals, including monkeys, lemurs, and reptiles. Entry is around £5 per adult.
• Children 7-12 years old: Take a ride on the Gibraltar Cable Car to the top of the Rock, where kids can enjoy panoramic views and see the famous Barbary macaques up close.
• Teenagers 13-18 years old: Explore the Great Siege Tunnels or hike up the Mediterranean Steps, a challenging trail that leads to the top of the Rock with spectacular views.

Google Maps

Gibraltar

*Notice: Content and travel advice presented is created by a port moderator and/or AI, courtesy of ChatGPT. It is specifically designed for cruise passengers visiting this port of call. A port moderator could be a local individual, destination expert, port authority, or a tourism agency. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we recommend that you verify critical information like visas, health and safety, customs, and transportation with official sources before departure. Always familiarize yourself with safety aspects when visiting your destination. We have given some pointers under the information button in the main menu of this app.*