Things to do in Gibraltar

Most famous for its Rock, Gibraltar is a tiny piece of British soil on the southernmost tip of Spain. A favourite stop-off for holidaymakers on their way to or from the Costa del Sol, this small territory has an interesting history that lends much to its appeal. For such a small piece of land, there is plenty to do and see in Gibraltar.

The Rock

Gibraltar Rock is the most striking feature of Gibraltar and its most impressive landmark. A trek to its peak is an essential prerequisite for any trip here, with everything from a series of over 150 caves boasting huge stalagmites and stalactites to friendly families of monkeys along the route. From the summit, you can enjoy fantastic vistas across the Strait of Gibraltar and look out across the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.

St Michaels Cave

St Michaels Cave is perhaps the most well-known of the series of caves that can be found within the Rock. This cave doubles up as an auditorium, which takes full advantage of the natural acoustics within. Regular concerts and performances are held here, while visitors can also tour the other interconnecting caves and admire the huge and impressive stalagmites and stalactites found within them.

The Siege Tunnels

An ingenious idea developed by the British to defend Gibraltar against Spanish attacks in the 1700s, these series of tunnels in the Rock were fitted with cannons that blasted Spanish vessels on approach so successfully that the Spanish eventually gave up their ambitions to capture Gibraltar altogether. With over 30 miles of tunnels, some of which can be toured, the construction of the tunnels was a feat of engineering involving the blasting of the rock with dynamite. Visitors can also enjoy excellent views of the Strait from the Upper Galleries.

Gibraltar Museum

With exhibits covering the cultural and natural history of Gibraltar, this centrally located museum is a good way to start your trip, giving visitors the basics in Gibraltar's history, which will aid them in putting Gibraltars other attractions into perspective. Suitable for historians or anyone with an interest in the military, the museum sits side by side with old British fortifications, gun emplacements and gates. Exhibits here trace the history of the Rock, while among the highlights is a well-preserved Muslim bathhouse, still under restoration.

Moorish Castle

Dating back to 1160 and overlooking the centre from the landside of the Rock, this 12th century fortification is one of the few remaining Moorish structures in Gibraltar. Damage sustained through centuries of conflict can still be seen today and highlights include the Tower of Homage and the Gate House, with the former providing excellent examples of Islamic architecture. In past times, the castle was used as a watchtower for approaching invaders.

Dolphin trips

Regular trips depart from Gibraltar for tours of the Bay of Algeciras, home to a large community of dolphins. Boat trips depart from the popular Marina Bay and Watergardens Quay for anything up to a few hours or a whole day. The Bay is also a popular spot for sailing, giving sailors the chance to enjoy the dolphins too as they tour the bays capes Malabata to the east and Spartel to the west.

Botanic Gardens

First created in 1991, these relatively new gardens make for a pleasant afternoon stroll. The gardens contain some rare species of trees and flora as well as an array of local wildlife including butterflies, birds and bats in addition to some caged monkeys.