Stop scrolling if you’re trying to figure out if it’s worth visiting Gibraltar. At only 6.8 km2, this British Overseas Territory at the very southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula might look like a tiny dot on a map. But don’t let its size fool you. Most tourists come for duty-free shopping, Spanish sunshine, and a few selfies with the macaques. Only a few know this small place also holds UNESCO-listed caves with over 100,000 years of history. Or you can explore the labyrinth of tunnels, walk the cliffside paths in the protected nature reserve, and spot dolphins in the bay. Whether you’re here for history, or wildlife, or want to visit a place where British red phone boxes stand next to Spanish cafes, this guide is your key. We dive deep into the best things to do in Gibraltar and why they’re worth your time.
Let’s uncover the must-see places, the hidden gems, and why this peninsula should belong on your travel list.
The surprises start when you arrive.
Unique things to do in Gibraltar
1. Gibraltar runway
Looking for truly unique things to do in Gibraltar? How about walking across an active airport runway – legally? This isn’t a behind-the-scenes tour or some secret spot. It’s the very real, very public way thousands of people enter this British Overseas Territory. Gibraltar International Airport is one of the only places in the world, and the only one in Europe, where you can cross a working runway on foot. The experience is as wild as it sounds. One minute you’re wheeling your suitcase into the terminal, and the next you’re stepping across the same runway your plane landed on just minutes earlier.
WHY THE AIRPORT RUNWAY ISN’T JUST FOR PLANES
The runway stretches directly to the sea.
The runway slices directly through Winston Churchill Avenue, which used to be Gibraltar’s main road from Spain. For decades, traffic came to a standstill every time a plane needed to take off or land. Red lights would flash, movable barriers would come down and cars, cyclists and pedestrians would wait as a jet flew just metres overhead.
Things changed in 2023 with the grand opening of Kingsway, a brand-new road and tunnel system that now passes under the terminal and runway. It connects with Devil’s Tower Road, helping vehicles avoid the runway entirely. But pedestrians? They still get the thrill. People on foot, bicycles, and mobility scooters can still use the crossing.
Here’s something you probably didn’t know. According to the official Gibraltar airport website, this runway sits on what used to be a horse-racing track. And with the city centre just minutes away, it’s one of the most accessible airports, making arrivals and departures incredibly easy.
2. Dolphin Adventure
Did you know dolphins can sleep with one eye open? It sounds impossible, but it’s true. This unusual sleep pattern lets them rest one half of their brain, while the other half remains awake, allowing them to stay alert, continue swimming and surfacing to breathe. That’s just one of the surprising facts you’ll learn on a Dolphin Adventure tour. No wonder a Dolphin Adventure is one of the most unique things to do in Gibraltar.
Join Dolphin Adventure Gibraltar’s responsible and the most trusted marine tour company and BBC1’s choice for a documentary feature. These aren’t your typical tourist boats; their years of research and love for the ocean make every tour not only exciting but meaningful. The team provides a responsible wildlife experience and the crew knows these waters better than anyone. A professional marine biologist doesn’t just give tours; he also shares wild facts while collecting real data for conservation.
Out in the Strait of Gibraltar, you might find yourselves among massive pods of dolphins (sometimes over 200, even 1,000) gliding through the water and swimming right beneath you. In peak summer, it’s not just dolphins. Keep your eyes peeled for migrating whales, ocean sunfish, and maybe even an endangered loggerhead turtle.
This isn’t a staged show. These dolphins are wild and free, thriving in their natural environment. The boat moves with care and respect for the animals – no chasing, no loud motors, just calm, responsible viewing.
You’ll also enjoy breathtaking views of the Rock, Spain, and even North Africa, from the deck. Tours are family-friendly and always respectful to wildlife.
GOOD TO KNOW:
- PICK UP: Ocean Village, opposite the Sunborn Yacht Hotel, next to Biancas restaurant.
- THINGS TO BRING: Travel documents if arriving from Spain.
- TOUR TIMES: Dolphin Adventure Tours has multiple sailings daily (weather permitting). Between June and September, the tour runs usually at 11 AM, 12:30 PM, 2:30 PM, 4 PM and sometimes at 5:30 PM. During the winter times, there are usually two tours per afternoon. The Dolphin Adventure tour takes approximately 75 minutes and has limited availability.
3. Gorham’s Cave Complex
If you’re the kind of traveller who wants to go beyond the marina and city streets, Gorham’s Cave Complex will stop you in your tracks. This hidden coastal treasure on Gibraltar’s lesser-seen eastern face is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most unique things to do in Gibraltar. Why? It’s not for its location or scenic views, but for what it tells about the very end of the Neanderthal story.
According to the BBC website, archaeologists believe that this is one of the last places on Earth where Neanderthals survived. Excavations show that they lived here on and off for over 100,000 years, according to UNESCO. Some evidence even suggests that may have lasted here until just 24,000 to 33,000 years ago, far longer than once thought.
When they first settled, the caves were nearly 5 km inland. Today, because of sea level changes over millennia, they sit just a few metres from the Mediterranean. Inside these caves, archaeologists have discovered the remains of over 150 bird species, many with cut marks showing they were used for food. This suggests they hunted seabirds and may have used feathers for decorations. Even more astonishing is the 2012 discovery of a geometric engraving on a cave wall, now nicknamed the ‘Neanderthal hashtag’. According to Wikipedia, this engraved symbol in Gorham’s Cave is possibly the first known example of abstract art.
GOOD TO KNOW:
As of June 2025, you can’t enter the caves themselves (their archaeological deposits are too fragile). You can only book a limited guided tour down to their sea-level entrances. Standard guided tours are available between July and October, but they’re rare, small (max 5 people), and fill up fast. They cost £25 per person plus a guide fee, and you must book them in advance via neanderthals@gibmuseum.gi.
GORHAM’S CAVE VIEWING PLATFORM:
For a more accessible option, head to the Viewing platform on Europa Advance Road, which opened in 2017. It offers on-site interpretation and stunning views of the entire World Heritage Site. As of June 2025, Gorham’s Cave Viewing platform is open only weekdays (10 AM TO 2 PM) and costs only £5 to enter for adults, £2.50 for children. It includes staff-led talks from the Gibraltar National Museum every half hour.
The best things to do in the Gibraltar Nature Reserve
4. Gibraltar cable car upper station
Only a few places in the world let you look into three countries and two continents at once. From the Upper Cable Car Station, you’ll do just that. In just 6 minutes, a 30-passenger cabin lifts you to the top of the Rock, 412 m (1,350 ft) above sea level. Since its construction in 1966, it has run every 10 minutes, so you never wait long.
Here, the world opens up before you. Once you’ve stepped off the Upper Station, you’ll understand why this place has attracted empires. From here, the views are almost otherworldly. Look north and you’ll see the mountain ranges of southern Spain beyond Costa del Sol. From the terraces, you’ll overlook the city below. East lies the Mediterranean Sea and South reveals the rugged coastline of Africa. You’re not just sightseeing three nations (Spain, Morocco, and the UK’s overseas territory), you’re standing where cultures, continents, and oceans meet.
There’s plenty to explore up here. Walk the viewing platforms, browse the souvenir shops and purchase some refreshments. This is where you’ll likely meet the Barbary Apes who usually make an appearance, curious, and camera-ready. With your ticket, you’ll also receive a QR code giving you access to an insightful multimedia tour that explains the history and significance of what you see.
DID YOU KNOW?
From the Upper Station, you have direct access (with a separate ticket) to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. It’s home to some of the most famous attractions in the area. You can purchase tickets to the Nature Reserve at the Cable Car ticket office and the Top Station souvenir shop.
GOOD TO KNOW:
- From April to October, the cable car doesn’t stop at the Middle Station.
- As of June 2025, a return ticket for just the Cable Car ride costs £19.00 for adults (12 to 64 years). Children (5 to 11 years old) pay £9.00 for a return ticket.
- If you want to get the full experience and want to visit more places, including the Nature Reserve, you can buy a combined ticket. This includes the Cable Car return trip and access to top attractions. As of June 2025, adults pay £49.00 and children £31.00.
5. Gibraltar monkeys
One of the best things to do in Gibraltar is meet the famous Barbary macaques, the only wild monkey population in Europe. These tailless monkeys live freely around the Upper Rock, and the easiest place to spot them is at the Cable Car Top Station. As soon as you step out of the cabin, monkeys are there. You’ll find them lounging on railings, grooming each other, or climbing over signs.
While many of their relatives in Africa are endangered, the group on this Rock is growing. The monkeys get plenty of food from experts daily (apples, oranges, carrots, and more), so they don’t eat anything from tourists.
There are around 300 macaques living on the Rock today, but in 1942, their numbers fell low. Legend has it that Gibraltar will remain British as long as the macaques are here. During World War II, when only seven macaques were left, Winston Churchill made it his mission to bring more from Morocco and Algeria. The plan worked and the population now thrives under the care of the Gibraltar Ornithological & Natural History Society.
Now, they’re thriving, but they are also protected. According to the Gibraltar website, feeding, harassing, or touching them is now illegal, with fines reaching up to £4,000. Please, don’t try. Keep your distance and enjoy watching them.
GOOD TO KNOW:
- You can watch monkeys from a safe distance, take beautiful photos, and learn about their story. Just remember, they aren’t pets. They’re wild animals.
- The Barbary monkeys may look playful but can bite or act aggressively if scared, provoked or annoyed. They might climb on you or try to grab food. Don’t feed them, don’t touch them, and don’t eat your snacks or ice cream outside if monkeys are nearby.
- Never pull faces and know that when monkeys show their teeth, it warns other monkeys or potential intruders.
GIBRALTAR MONKEYS STEALING:
When we visited in June 2025, we noticed that the monkeys were calm and peaceful. They were neither aggressive nor annoying, and they didn’t attempt to steal food from our backpacks. However, it’s important to remember that if you buy snacks, you must eat them indoors. Otherwise, the monkeys will snatch food from those who don’t follow this rule.
6. Skywalk
Do you dare to walk on glass, 340 m (1,115 ft) above sea level? If so, the Skywalk should be your next adventure. This thrilling attraction is one of the best things to do in Gibraltar for those who love heights and unforgettable views. Opened in 2018 by Star Wars legend Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker himself!), the Skywalk sits even higher than London’s tallest building, the Shard. From here, you can get stunning 360 º views over the sea, Spain, and even Africa.
Built on top of an old World War II structure, the 2.5 m wide Skywalk is made from four layers of thick see-through glass. According to the official website, it can handle wild weather and 340 people at once (or five Asian elephants). But for safety and the best experience, no more than 50 people can be on it at once.
GOOD TO KNOW:
The Skywalk connects to trails leading to other big attractions, including the Apes’ Den, O’Hara Battery, and Windsor Suspension Bridge. It’s a part of a full day adventure, and your entrance fee is free with Nature Reserve ticket. There is also a lift for visitors with limited mobility. As of June 2025, opening hours are as follows: May-September: 9:30 PM – 7 PM, October-April: 9 AM-6PM.
7. Douglas Path
Looking for a quiet but breathtaking hike? Douglas Path follows the upper ridge of the Rock, from the Charles V Wall to Mount Misery, cutting through some of the most dramatic scenery. This narrow trail has steep steps in the first part that challenge your legs. But the reward comes fast: breathtaking views on both sides. According to Wikipedia, convict labour cut this trail to facilitate troop movements on the Upper Rock. If you keep your eyes open, you’ll spot an old circular stone building (one of the oldest surviving buildings on the Rock). Every turn offers new views or a bit of history.
Along the way, you’ll also pass an old WWII command post. After that, follow the path all the way to O’Hara’s Road, which leads to O’Hara Battery.
8. O’Hara’s Battery
Located 426 m (1,397 ft) above sea level, near the southern end of the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, this spot is the highest accessible point of the Rock. The British military built it in 1890 on the ruins of a failed watchtower called ‘O’Hara’s Folly’, named after Governor Charles O’Hara.
The battery’s main attraction is the massive 9.2-inch gun installed in 1901. It could shoot targets up to 26 km away and once protected the Strait and surrounding waters during key moments in history. The gun was last fired in 1976, during a training exercise. Today, it’s one of the most complete and well-preserved military landmarks on the Rock.
Walk through the magazine rooms, engine chambers, and outdoor gun platform. The entire area feels like a time capsule, preserved with care.
GOOD TO KNOW:
Open year-round with full access included in your Nature Reserve ticket.
9. Mediterranean Steps
Ask a local about the best things to do in Gibraltar and they’ll probably mention the Mediterranean Steps (if they’re willing to share the secret).
Hidden in plain sight, the Mediterranean Steps are one of the most unique attractions within the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. Yet most tourists miss them out completely. This stunning path begins Jew’s Gate on the Rock’s western slope. From there, the dramatic route curves around the southern edge of the Rock before turning into a steep, zigzagging staircase, carved into limestone cliffs. By the time you reach the summit near Lord Airey’s Battery, you’ll understand why this is a local favourite.
If you love nature and secret viewpoints, this adventure is for you. Bring water, sturdy shoes, and a camera – you’ll want to remember every step.
CLIMB BACK THROUGH TIME:
What makes this route special? The Mediterranean Steps aren’t just scenic; they’re part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They cut through a section of the Gorham’s Cave Complex. According to the Gorham’s Cave official website, the natural environment and landscape along the route haven’t changed since Neanderthals walked this land. You’ll walk through native plants and rock formations that have barely changed in over 30,000 years. Along the way, you’ll come across the Goat’s Hair Twin Caves and the former WWII lookouts.
At every bend, the views open up: the Strait, Morocco in the distance, the beaches far below. Restored in 2007 by the Bonita Trust, the trail is one of the most breathtaking walks in southern Europe. And most people never hear about it.
10. Michael’s Cave
Found inside the Rock Nature Reserve, this legendary limestone cave was once believed to be bottomless. A legend dating back to Roman times says St. Michael’s Cave is connected to Africa by a subterranean passage. Some even thought it led to the Greek underworld. Even the name has meaning – it comes from a sacred cave in Italy where the Archangel Michael reportedly appeared.
THE CAVE WITH SECRETS HIDDEN FOR 20,000 YEARS
The cave has had many uses over the centuries. In the 18th century, it protected people from bombs during sieges by Spanish and French ships. During WWII, it stored weapons and became an emergency hospital. In the Victorian era, Queen Victoria’s officers held parties here.
Walk into the main cavern and you’ll feel like you’re inside a glowing cathedral. It’s filled with tall limestone columns, twisting stalactites, and massive chambers. The biggest space here is still used as an event space. This chamber even functions as a concert hall, seating over 400 people. But the real surprise? In 1942, during World War II, engineers digging a tunnel found something unexpected: Lower St. Michael’s Cave. Hidden possibly for 20,000 years, this lower chamber is full of strange rock shapes, and a lake stretching nearly 40 m.
Today, you can experience St. Michael’s Cave in a new way. The Awakening, a high-tech light and sound show brings the rock’s hidden story to life. The formations begin to glow, change colours, and pulse with sound. The show runs every 20 minutes.
GOOD TO KNOW:
Your Nature Reserve ticket includes entry. As of June 2025, summer hours run from 9:30 AM to 7 PM and winter hours are 9 AM to 6 PM. There’s also disability access at the exit, with a view of the main show.
11. Windsor Suspension Bridge
Searching for something different? Windsor Bridge stretches 71 m (233 ft) across a deep natural gorge, suspended 50 m (164 ft) above ground. It links two old military battery sites from WWII on the Royal Anglian Way. But the real reward? The view. As you step onto the bridge, you’ll see all the way across the bay, the city below, and even the coast of Morocco if the skies are clear.
GOOD TO KNOW:
There are two ways to get there. One is a steep path through the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. It’s scenic, but steep and not suited for everyone. The second option is more forgiving and much more relaxed. Start at Ape’s Den and take the gentler, flatter route – it’s perfect for a calmer climb.
12. Apes Den
Located near the middle cable car station in the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, Apes Den is where the famous Barbary macaques like to hang out. Watch them groom each other, rest on the benches, climb around fences, feed, or even play with each other. Occasionally, they even steal snacks from distracted tourists – so hang on to your bags, and never try to feed them. Summer is the best time to visit if you want to see the little ones. Just remember that the adults get extra protective during this time, so it’s important to respect their space.
13. Climb Charles V Wall
Here’s one of the best things to do in Gibraltar that most people overlook: Charles V Wall. This impressive wall was built in 1540 after a brutal pirate attack. Holy Roman Emperor Charles V ordered this defensive wall to be strengthened in 1552. It stretches from sea level all the way to the top of the Rock and you can walk its sections today.
The upper section is the real adventure. You’ll find approximately 600 steep stone steps winding up the cliff, with resting points along the way. Each level gives better views of the city, sea, and sky. This path isn’t for the faint-hearted, but if you can handle the climb, you’ll love the reward. Monkeys often appear near the top as they love this peaceful part of the rock.
GOOD TO KNOW:
Few tourists take this route, so it feels like a hidden path. The wall connects big sights like the Skywalk, Apes Den, and Windsor Bridge.
14. Moorish Castle
Did you know the Moors ruled Gibraltar longer than anyone else? Their rule lasted 727 years – that’s more than the Spanish and British combined! And the most powerful symbol of that era still stands today: the Moorish Castle.
Moorish Castle, dating back to the 8th century, with its iconic Tower of Homage.
You’ll see the Tower of Homage long before you reach it. Standing proudly above the hillside, it’s not just the most dramatic part of the fortress – it’s actually the tallest Islamic-period tower still standing in the entire Iberian Peninsula. Also, according to the Visit Gibraltar website, the wider fortress area, known as the Qasbah, is the largest of its kind in this region.
The tower once protected and controlled the main entrance into town. It was rebuilt in 1333 after Abu’l Hasan led the Moors back to victory. Its thick walls still bear scars from centuries of battles. In 1540, hundreds of locals hid here when Turkish pirates attacked the Rock. Later, it served as a prison, right up until 2010.
DID YOU KNOW?
In 1704, after Admiral Rooke captured Gibraltar, it was here, on this tower, where the British flag was first raised. It’s flown ever since.
GOOD TO KNOW:
The Moorish Castle is included in your Upper Rock Nature Reserve ticket. Visit between 9:30 AM – 7 PM (May-September) or 9 AM – 6 PM (October-April). Closed for restoration from 19th May to 27th July 2025—plan ahead.
15. Great Siege Tunnels
Looking for more than just a view from the top of the Rock? One of the best things to do in Gibraltar is to explore the Great Siege Tunnels. This place was carved by hands under enemy fire not just with tools, but with courage. During the Great Siege (1779-1983), French and Spanish forces tried everything to take Gibraltar back. For nearly four years, the British faced attacks, troops surrounded the Rock, hoping to starve them out. Yet General Elliot and the defender never gave in.
ENGINEERING MIRACLE
Governor Elliot even promised a reward to anyone who could figure out how to get the cannons to the cliff on the Rock’s north face. That’s when Sergeant Major Ince stepped forward. His idea? Dig a tunnel through the limestone. With just hand tools and gunpowder, 18 men began carving what would become the Windsor Gallery. Fumes nearly choked them out – so they opened a vent for air. But they noticed something brilliant: the vent became a perfect place for the first cannon port.
By the time the siege ended, Windsor Gallery had 112 m (370 ft) and fired four guns. Ince then built more tunnels and galleries: Kings and Queens Lines, St. George’s Hall, and Cornwallis Chamber. After the war, he was rewarded with a horse from the Duke of Kent a farm still named after him.
You can still see original cannons and Victorian-era guns in place.
GOOD TO KNOW:
Included in your Upper Rock Nature Reserve ticket. As of June 2025, the opening times are 9:30 AM to 7 PM (May-September) or 9 AM to 6 PM (October-April).
16. WWII Tunnels
What if we told you the Rock hid an entire city underground?
That’s exactly what happened during WWII. British and Canadian forces dug deep into the Rock and expanded the tunnels. They created a network of 53 km (33 mi) of tunnels to house 16,000 troops. They stored enough supplies for a siege and built a secret command centre for the war effort. The tunnels had everything they needed: kitchens, hospitals, generators, and ammunition depots. They even had a secret passage pointing towards Jerusalem, called the Holyland Tunnel. This wasn’t just shelter. It was strategy, survival, and secrecy all in one.
WWII EXPERIENCE:
Now, after a full renovation, the Tunnels: WWII Experience finally reopened, and it’s incredible. You’ll walk the same paths as generals and engineers and see real tools used during the construction. Listen to radio broadcasts from the very moments that shaped history.
Start in the Strategy Room, where you’ll learn how this rock became one of the most important strongholds in the world. The Spitfire Hall is home to a full-size replica of the iconic aircraft assembled right here during the war. Then, explore the Espionage Room, filled with spy gadgets, secret codes, and puzzles you can solve. One of the most emotional areas is the Evacuation Room, which shares the powerful story of families forced to leave their homes to keep the stronghold secure.
Exploring the WWII Tunnels is one of the best things to do in Gibraltar because the tunnels bring history to life with original news footage, real tools, and wartime relics. You can end your tour with a pint at the Tunneller’s Rest, a 1940s-style bar made for officers.
Other things to do in Gibraltar
17. Europa Point
This is the southern point of Gibraltar, where, on clear days, the Rif Mountain of Morocco stares back at you. But it’s not just the view that makes this place one of the popular places to visit. This rocky tip has seen ships from every age drift into the Atlantic. Phoenician sailors anchored just offshore, while waiting for the right winds to carry them west. That same wind sweeps through the Harding’s Battery, once home to massive 19th-century guns, which defended the Rock.
Then there’s the Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque, a gift from Saudi Arabia and the most southerly mosque in Europe. One of the largest mosques in a non-Muslim country faces Mecca and offers prayer space to over 1,000 local Muslims. Across from it stands the Shrine of Our Lady of Europe, transformed from a mosque in the 15th century to a Christian Chapel. Now it’s a symbol of peaceful coexistence across faiths. And Nun’s Well, a centuries-old reservoir dating back to the Moors proves that life here was always a mix of survival and strategy. It once brewed beer for British troops; today it offers a moment of quiet reflection.
Now you know what the best things to do in Gibraltar are!
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