What to Do in Gibraltar from a Cruise Ship

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Gibraltar: A Cruise Ship’s Best Friend

Gibraltar is a small British Overseas Territory located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula. It is a popular cruise ship destination due to its rich history, stunning scenery, and tax-free shopping. In this article, we will explore the best things to do in Gibraltar from a cruise ship, including visiting the Rock of Gibraltar, exploring the city of Gibraltar, and taking a day trip to Morocco.

Activity Description Cost
Visit the Rock of Gibraltar Take a cable car to the top of the Rock of Gibraltar for stunning views of the city and the Strait of Gibraltar. Visit the Great Siege Tunnels, the Moorish Castle, and the Apes’ Den. $30
Explore the Old Town Walk through the narrow streets of the Old Town, admiring the traditional architecture and visiting the many shops and restaurants. $20
Go swimming or sunbathing at Catalan Bay Swim in the clear waters of Catalan Bay, or relax on the beach and soak up the sun. $10
Take a boat trip to Morocco Take a day trip to Morocco and visit the city of Tangier. $100

Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory located on the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula. It is a popular tourist destination, thanks to its stunning scenery, rich history, and diverse culture. Whether you’re visiting on a cruise ship or staying for a longer period of time, there are plenty of things to see and do in Gibraltar.

Day-trip excursions

If you’re visiting Gibraltar on a cruise ship, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the city. There are a number of day-trip excursions that you can take, including:

  • The Rock of Gibraltar

The Rock of Gibraltar is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world. It’s home to a variety of wildlife, including Barbary apes, and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. You can take a cable car to the top of the rock, where you can visit the Apes’ Den, the Great Siege Tunnels, and the Moorish Castle.

  • St. Michael’s Cave

St. Michael’s Cave is a natural limestone cave located inside the Rock of Gibraltar. It’s home to a variety of stalactites and stalagmites, and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Gibraltar. You can take a guided tour of the cave, which includes a boat ride through the underground lake.

  • The Catalan Bay Nature Reserve

The Catalan Bay Nature Reserve is a protected area located on the eastern side of Gibraltar. It’s home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and insects. You can hike through the reserve, go birdwatching, or simply relax on the beach.

  • The Gibraltar Museum

The Gibraltar Museum is located in the center of Gibraltar. It’s home to a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Gibraltar’s history. You can learn about the Phoenicians, the Moors, the British, and the role that Gibraltar has played in world history.

How to get around

The best way to get around Gibraltar is by foot or by public transportation. The city is relatively small, so you can easily walk to most of the attractions. There are also a number of buses that run throughout the city. If you’re staying in the city center, you can also get around by using the cable car.

Things to see and do in Gibraltar without a cruise ship

If you’re not visiting Gibraltar on a cruise ship, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the city. There are a number of things to see and do, including:

  • Sightseeing

There are a number of historical sites and attractions to visit in Gibraltar. You can visit the Great Siege Tunnels, the Moorish Castle, and the Jewish Cemetery. You can also take a walk along the Alameda Gardens, which offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

  • Activities

There are a number of activities to keep you entertained in Gibraltar. You can go hiking or biking in the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, go swimming or sunbathing at Catalan Bay Beach, or take a boat trip around the Rock of Gibraltar. You can also visit the Gibraltar International Airport, which is one of the busiest airports in the world.

  • Restaurants

There are a number of restaurants to choose from in Gibraltar. You can find everything from traditional British fare to Mediterranean cuisine. There are also a number of bars and nightclubs where you can enjoy a drink and dance the night away.

Gibraltar is a beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you’re visiting on a cruise ship or staying for a longer period of time, you’re sure to find something to enjoy.

What To Do In Gibraltar From A Cruise Ship?

Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula. It is a popular cruise ship destination due to its rich history, stunning scenery, and mild climate. There are many things to see and do in Gibraltar, and you can easily spend a few days exploring the territory.

Here are some of the top things to do in Gibraltar from a cruise ship:

  • Visit the Rock of Gibraltar. The Rock of Gibraltar is the iconic landmark of the territory. It is home to a number of attractions, including the Apes’ Den, the Great Siege Tunnels, and the Moorish Castle. You can take a cable car to the top of the Rock for stunning views of the Strait of Gibraltar and the surrounding area.
  • Explore the old town. The old town of Gibraltar is a charming maze of narrow streets and alleyways. It is home to a number of shops, restaurants, and bars. You can also visit the Cathedral of St. Mary the Crowned, the Jewish Cemetery, and the Garrison Library.
  • Go swimming or sunbathing at Catalan Bay. Catalan Bay is a beautiful beach located just a short walk from the old town. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
  • Take a boat trip to the Pillars of Hercules. The Pillars of Hercules are two rock formations that mark the entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar. You can take a boat trip to the Pillars of Hercules for stunning views of the Rock of Gibraltar and the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Visit the Gibraltar Botanic Gardens. The Gibraltar Botanic Gardens are a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city. They are home to a variety of plants from around the world. You can also visit the Moorish Pavilion, which offers stunning views of the Rock of Gibraltar.

Accommodation in Gibraltar

There are a variety of accommodation options available in Gibraltar, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are a few of the best options for cruise ship passengers:

  • Hotel Sunborn Gibraltar is a five-star hotel located on a floating pontoon in the harbor. The hotel offers stunning views of the Rock of Gibraltar and the Strait of Gibraltar.
  • The Rock Hotel is a four-star hotel located in the heart of the old town. The hotel is close to all of the major attractions in Gibraltar.
  • Gibraltar Youth Hostel is a budget-friendly hostel located in the old town. The hostel offers shared dorms and private rooms.
  • Casares Apartments is a self-catering apartment complex located just a short walk from the old town. The apartments offer fully equipped kitchens and private balconies.

Getting to and from Gibraltar

There are a few different ways to get to and from Gibraltar from a cruise ship. Here are the most popular options:

  • By plane: Gibraltar International Airport is located just a short drive from the city center. There are direct flights to Gibraltar from a number of major European cities.
  • By boat: There are a number of ferry companies that offer regular services to Gibraltar from Spain and Morocco. The ferry ride from Spain takes around 30 minutes, and the ferry ride from Morocco takes around 90 minutes.
  • By car: Gibraltar is located just a short drive from Spain and Morocco. You can drive to Gibraltar from either country via the A-7 motorway.

Gibraltar is a beautiful and fascinating place to visit. There are many things to see and do, and you can easily spend a few days exploring the territory. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or a beach bum, you are sure to find something to enjoy in Gibraltar.

What are the best things to do in Gibraltar from a cruise ship?

  • Visit the Rock of Gibraltar. The Rock of Gibraltar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Gibraltar. It is home to a number of attractions, including the Great Siege Tunnels, the Moorish Castle, and the Apes’ Den.
  • Take a walk along the waterfront. The waterfront is a great place to enjoy the views of the Rock of Gibraltar and the Mediterranean Sea. There are plenty of restaurants and bars along the waterfront, where you can sample some of Gibraltar’s famous cuisine.
  • Visit the Gibraltar Museum. The Gibraltar Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Gibraltar. It houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Gibraltar’s past.
  • Go shopping. Gibraltar is a duty-free port, so it is a great place to do some shopping. There are plenty of shops selling everything from souvenirs to designer clothes.
  • Visit the Apes’ Den. The Apes’ Den is home to a colony of Barbary macaques, which are the only wild monkeys in Europe. You can watch the monkeys play and interact with them from a safe distance.

How long do I need to stay in Gibraltar?

The length of time you need to stay in Gibraltar depends on what you want to see and do. If you are only interested in visiting the Rock of Gibraltar and the waterfront, you can easily see the highlights in a day. However, if you want to explore the city more in-depth, you will need to stay for a few days.

What is the best way to get around Gibraltar?

The best way to get around Gibraltar is by foot. The city is small and compact, and most of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. You can also take the bus or the cable car to get around.

Where should I stay in Gibraltar?

There are a number of hotels and guesthouses in Gibraltar, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts. The best place to stay depends on your budget and your interests. If you are interested in being close to the action, you can stay in the city centre. If you want to be close to the Rock of Gibraltar, you can stay in the Upper Rock area.

What is the weather like in Gibraltar?

Gibraltar has a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and warm summers. The average temperature in January is 15C (59F), and the average temperature in July is 27C (81F). The weather can be unpredictable, so it is always a good idea to pack a variety of clothes.

What should I pack for a trip to Gibraltar?

You should pack a variety of clothes for a trip to Gibraltar, as the weather can be unpredictable. In general, you should pack light, comfortable clothing that you can layer. You will also need to pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. If you are planning on hiking or visiting the Rock of Gibraltar, you will need to pack sturdy shoes.

Is it safe to visit Gibraltar?

Gibraltar is a safe destination for tourists. The crime rate is low, and the people are friendly and welcoming. However, it is always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft.

Gibraltar is a fascinating and diverse destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for history, culture, or stunning scenery, you’re sure to find it in Gibraltar. And with its close proximity to a cruise ship port, it’s easy to add a visit to Gibraltar to your next cruise itinerary.

Here are a few key takeaways from this blog post:

  • Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula.
  • The Rock of Gibraltar is the most iconic landmark in Gibraltar.
  • Gibraltar is home to a diverse population of people from all over the world.
  • The official languages of Gibraltar are English and Spanish.
  • Gibraltar is a popular tourist destination, with over 6 million visitors each year.
  • There are many things to do in Gibraltar, including visiting the Rock of Gibraltar, exploring the city center, and taking a day trip to Morocco.
  • Gibraltar is a great place to visit, and it’s easy to add a visit to your next cruise itinerary.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.