Gibraltar holidays

Popular holidays

Gibraltar holidays pair a Mediterranean climate with British landmarks, so this British overseas territory – which is the ideal spot for a weekend break – is like getting two countries for the price of one.

Best of British and VAT-free shopping

You’ll feel right at home in Gibraltar – this three-mile-long headland on Spain’s south coast is dressed up like a seaside town you’d find in Blighty. In the bustling town centre, you’ll come across waterfront hotels, red post boxes, and plenty of fish-and-chip shops. Casemates Square sits near the middle of it all. Here, you’ll find familiar food outlets with plenty of outdoor seating. Main Street, meanwhile, is like your average British high street, but sunnier – rows of smart shops sell VAT-free perfume, jewellery, and souvenirs.

The Rock and wartime tunnels

The 420-metre-tall Rock of Gibraltar – AKA the biggest attraction around here – has been used as a defensive fort by Britain since the early 1800s. It hides 34 miles of underground tunnels dubbed the Great Siege Tunnels, dug out by British soldiers during the Napoleonic War and Second World War. Elsewhere on the Rock, you can say hello to the resident Barbary macaques, hike up or down the sea-view Mediterranean Steps, or peek inside St Michael’s Cave, which hosts unique concerts and light shows.

Spanish-style shorelines and east coast bays

Gibraltar’s east coast beaches are in the same league as those in nearby mainland Spain. Catalan Bay’s fishing boats and pastel-painted houses give it its straight-from-a-postcard look and marina atmosphere, while the nearby Sandy Bay comes with Mediterranean sands and pond-still water, thanks to a coastal rock wall that protects it from the strong waves of the open sea.

Popular hotels in Gibraltar

Facts about Gibraltar

Capital

Gibraltar

Currency

Gibraltar Pound

(GIP)

Population

34,000

Language

English

Time zone

GMT +1

Flight duration

3 hours from Gatwick

FAQs

Where can I find the latest travel advice?

All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.

Should I tip in Gibraltar?

Tipping in Gibraltar is similar to the UK. In restaurants, it's common to leave 10-15% if service isn't included. For taxis and hotel staff, rounding up or giving a small amount is appreciated but not mandatory.

Are there any local customs I should know about in Gibraltar?

When visiting Gibraltar, British customs apply as it is a British Overseas Territory. English is the main language and queuing is expected. Dress modestly when entering religious sites, covering shoulders and knees, and greet people with hello or good morning.

Where can I try local food in Gibraltar?

To experience traditional Gibraltarian cuisine, we recommend trying local restaurants in the old town. Look for dishes like calentita, a chickpea flour flatbread, and rosto, a pasta dish. Many eateries around Casemates Square and Irish Town offer a mix of local and international flavours.

What's the nightlife like in Gibraltar?

Gibraltar features a compact nightlife scene centered around Main Street and the marina. Head to Casemates Square for varied bars and live music venues, or Irish Town for traditional British-style pubs that stay open late.

Where are the best places to shop in Gibraltar?

Main Street is the heart of Gibraltar's shopping district, where you'll find a mix of familiar UK brands and local boutiques. For duty-free goods, we recommend exploring the shops around Casemates Square. Many resorts also offer convenient on-site shopping options.

What are the best beaches in Gibraltar?

Gibraltar has limited beach options due to its compact size. Eastern Beach offers the longest sandy stretch with facilities and calm Mediterranean waters. Camp Bay provides a smaller pebble beach with views across the bay.

What travel adapter do I need for Gibraltar?

When visiting Gibraltar, you'll find the same three-pin UK-style plugs as in the United Kingdom. If you're travelling from the UK, you won't need an adapter. For visitors from other countries, we recommend bringing a UK plug adapter for your devices.

What should I pack for Gibraltar?

For Gibraltar, pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring the Rock, swimwear for beach days, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Don't forget sun protection essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. Bring a refillable water bottle and a small backpack for day trips.