20 Attractions in Gibraltar You Must Visit

Despite its small size, Gibraltar has many interesting attractions. This island boasts 56 kilometers of tunnels that weave through its rock, along with a charming old town. It is home to the famous Barbary macaques, as well as dolphins that swim in the coastal waters. And this is just the beginning of Gibraltar's attractions!

The Barbary macaque is a unique species of monkey that lives in Gibraltar. It is the only species of wild monkey in Europe. Most of the over 230 individuals of this species live at the summit of a 400-meter rock, which can only be viewed by taking the cable car up.

However, these cheeky and curious residents of Gibraltar can be seen throughout the island, sometimes even sneaking into hotel rooms. While these animals pose no threat, tourists are better off keeping their belongings close, as the Barbary macaques are seasoned and skilled pickpockets.

Address: Apes Den, Old Queen's Road, Gibraltar.

The rock of Gibraltar features entire kilometers of underground tunnels. The earliest of these were created during the Great Siege of Gibraltar from 1779 to 1783. Their construction began toward the end of the siege on the governor of Gibraltar, General Elliott's orders, who used them to install weaponry.

During tours of these tunnels, visitors are often amazed at the thought that most of these underground passages were excavated with a pickaxe in just a few weeks, and it was these tunnels that contributed to the defeat of the French and Spanish attackers.

Address: Great Siege Tunnels, Gibraltar.

The Gibraltar Museum offers insight into the rich cultural, military, and natural history of this area. In this museum, you can learn about the various peoples who lived here from the time of Carthage to the present day. It is here that you can get an understanding of the history that has shaped Gibraltar into what it is today.

The museum features individual rooms dedicated to the natural and prehistoric history of this area; in the basement, visitors can view the ruins of what was once an Arab bathhouse. Although they were once used by British soldiers as stables for horses, they remain some of the best-preserved Moorish baths in Europe.

Address: Gibraltar Museum, Bomb House Lane, Gibraltar.

One of the most interesting areas of Gibraltar is its old town, which occupies the northwestern part of the territory and is quite close to the airport. It is a unique blend of narrow streets that surround Main Street.

In this area, a contradictory feeling emerges: traditional British pubs suggest that you are in the UK, while the interesting combination of architecture with the clear blue sky reminds you that you are, after all, in the Mediterranean.

The main square of this area is Casemates Square, which boasts plenty of sunny terraces where you can enjoy a pint of beer and delicious food.

Address: SRGEurope, Main Street, Gibraltar.

The Convent is one of the oldest buildings in Gibraltar, dating back to 1531. Initially used as a residence for Franciscan monks, it was transformed into the official residence of the governor of Gibraltar after 1728.

This convent is one of the most visited public buildings in Europe and has hardly lost its original appearance. There is a legend that the corridors of this convent are still haunted by the 'Lady in Grey' (a Spanish nun who was bricked in one of the rooms by her father).

Address: The Convent, Main Street, Gibraltar.

This geographical feature, for which Gibraltar is named, represents a 400-meter cliff. From the top of this rock, you can enjoy breathtaking views of three countries (Gibraltar itself, Spain, and Morocco) as well as two continents (Europe and Africa).

You can reach this rock from the base station on the southern outskirts of the city via a cable car. At the top, you are welcomed by the famous local macaques - the Barbary macaques. Please note: on days when there is particularly strong wind, the cable car does not operate.

Address: The Rock of Gibraltar, Gibraltar.

Europa Point is located at the southernmost tip of Gibraltar. From here, there is a modest view of the northern coast of Morocco, which is only 21 kilometers across the strait. There is also an observation area from which you can see the blurred outlines of the Rif mountain range on a clear day, featuring the peak of Jebel Musa.

According to legend, Musa was once joined with the rock until Hercules broke through them and created the two Pillars of Hercules. It is quite a long walk from the city center to this place, so it's best to take Bus No. 2, which runs both ways approximately every 10 minutes.

Address: Europa Point, Gibraltar.

Ocean Village is an interesting area located at the same-named marina. Most residents of this area live on boats. Ocean Village resembles a smaller version of Marbella with its attractive coastal bars and restaurants, an enormous yacht hotel, and exclusive private vessels that sail along the promenade.

This is where nightlife enthusiasts should head, as it is home to the popular local bar Bruno's and the Sunborn casino. Additionally, there's one of the few establishments where you can get food after 11 PM.

Address: Ocean Village, Gibraltar.

The largest section of Gibraltar's underground tunnels was built during World War II. At that time, 13 kilometers of underground passages were added to the seven that already existed (which were excavated during the Great Siege of Gibraltar from 1779 to 1783). The main purpose of their creation was to house a 16,000-strong garrison and all its supplies, as well as to connect the new military headquarters in the southeastern part of the territory with the west.

There are also two main underground highways - Foss Way and Great North Road, which run along almost the entire rock.

Address: World War II Tunnel, Willis Road, Gibraltar.

Wondering what else to see in Gibraltar? Visit its most impressive attraction - Saint Michael's Cave. It consists of a series of limestone tunnels and chambers. The tunnels here are so deep that it was once thought they might lead all the way to Africa under the strait.

The cave consists of an upper and lower section connected by drops of up to 45 meters. Below are narrower passages that extend down to a depth of 62 meters. These impressive underground chambers were used for defensive purposes by the Moors and Spaniards; during World War II, they were also planned to be used as hospitals (though these plans were never realized).

Today, the Great Cave houses a 600-seat auditorium. In these caves, you can also see beautiful stalagmites and stalactites.

Address: Saint Michael's Cave, Saint Michael Road, Gibraltar.

Initially, this reserve was called the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, but it was renamed Gibraltar Nature Reserve in 2013, which now covers almost 40% of the territory.

The reserve stretches the length of Gibraltar, home to the majority of the Barbary macaque population (macaques), as well as red foxes, bats, the Gibraltar spider, five species of lizards, and six species of snakes. From here, there are wonderful views of Spain (to the north), Africa (to the south), and the outlines of the Atlas mountain range.

Address: Gibraltar Nature Reserve, Gibraltar.

If you're unlucky enough to visit Gibraltar during strong winds when the cable car is not operating, you can hike to the top via the Mediterranean Steps, originally used by British soldiers to access the bases. This challenging path begins at the Jewish Gate in the southern part of the reserve and leads visitors up a winding stone staircase.

Locals use these steps to keep fit, treating them as a sort of gym. Some sections along the way are overgrown, yet the lookout at the top offers a wonderful view of the northern coast of Africa. Plan for about two hours to ascend and descend.

Address: Mediterranean Steps, O'Hara's Road, Gibraltar.

This cathedral is built in the Moorish Revival style of the Church of England and dates back to 1832. Its appearance resembles that of a mosque more than a church. It is located in the northern part of the old town of Gibraltar, and its elegant and understated style does not draw much attention, so to avoid passing by unnoticed, keep an eye out for each building.

The cathedral successfully survived both World Wars and remained undamaged. However, the building sustained serious damage in 1951 when a British battleship exploded while moored in nearby docks. After the explosion, the cathedral's roof and windows were replaced.

Address: Holy Trinity Cathedral, Secretary's Lane, Gibraltar.

This cathedral belongs to the Roman Catholic Church, and its history dates back to 1462 - the year it was consecrated by Spanish monarchs King Ferdinand III of Aragon and Queen Isabella of Castile. During the Moorish rule, there was a mosque located on the very site of the cathedral's current courtyard. Here, you can see the coat of arms of the Catholic monarchs.

Address: Cathedral of Saint Mary the Crowned, Main Street, Gibraltar.

Irish Town is one of the busiest streets on the island (it's a street, not a district, as the name might suggest). It runs parallel to the main street and was named in honor of the Irish women who arrived here in the 1720s to support the British garrison.

Its prime location near the port turned this street into a thriving commercial center until all its buildings were destroyed during the Great Siege from 1779 to 1783. Most of the elegant buildings on this street that we see today underwent extensive renovations in the 19th century. After the renovations, this street became one of the most modern areas of the island.

Address: Irish Town, Gibraltar.

This tower is the main defensive structure of the Moorish fort from the 8th century. It is the tallest surviving tower from the Moorish rule. The battered and worn facade of the building stands testament to the many battles it has witnessed. During the Christian reclamation of territory from the Moors (Gibraltar was under their rule from 711 to 1309, and from 1350 to 1462), the tower sustained significant damage, leading to extensive renovations in the 14th century.

Situated high on the western part of the rock, this tower is the first sight you encounter when crossing the border between Spain and Gibraltar.

Address: Moorish Castle, Moorish Castle Estate, Gibraltar.

The waters of Gibraltar boast a rich marine fauna, especially abundant in the Bay of Algeciras. Here, you can find whales, Pacific bluefin tuna, and a large population of dolphins. But the most heartwarming sight to see during a trip here are the dolphins swimming and jumping in the clear blue waters, often with babies alongside.

This is especially beautiful at sunset (during which the dolphins exhibit peak activity). They frequently leap right over the bows of small boats, allowing tourists to capture stunning photos during such excursions. Regular tours here are conducted by Dolphin Adventure and Dolphin Safari.

The Windsor Suspension Bridge was opened quite recently, providing a new attraction aimed at bringing even more tourists to Gibraltar. This is a must-visit for guests seeking an adrenaline rush. The bridge spans a gorge 70 meters wide and 50 meters deep, located within the nature reserve.

It sways constantly in the wind and is definitely not suitable for those afraid of heights. This attraction is highly appreciated by thrill-seekers. By walking across this bridge, you can become acquainted with the fauna and flora of this beautiful protected area.

Address: Windsor Suspension Bridge, Gibraltar.

Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque is the southernmost mosque in continental Europe, and while it does not compare with the ancient mosque of Cordoba, it serves as a beautiful example of modern Islamic architecture. The mosque is located at Europa Point, the farthest southern point of Gibraltar.

It looks simply stunning, especially when viewed from the west. The mosque was constructed between 1995 and 1997, and it houses a lecture hall, library, and a prayer space. Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque is one of the largest such buildings found in a non-Muslim country.

Address: Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque, Gibraltar.

The beautiful botanic garden of Gibraltar, also known as the Alameda Gardens, is a great place to relax away from the often crowded tourist attractions in other parts of the island. Located at the end of the main street near the Southport Gates, this beautiful garden was opened in 1816 to entertain the soldiers stationed here.

Visitors can also enter the Alameda Wildlife Park - a small zoo housing animals rescued by customs or police that cannot be returned to the wild. There is also an open-air theatre where various cultural and musical events are held. Fun guided tours are organized here once a month.

Address: Gibraltar Botanic Gardens, Red Sands Road, Gibraltar.