Currency: GBP Pound Sterling
Language: English
Visas: British nationals do not need a visa to enter Gibraltar.
Time Zone: Central European Time (CET) +1
Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, bordered by Spain to the north. It covers an area of about 6.7 square kilometers (2.6 square miles) and is strategically positioned at the entrance of the Mediterranean Sea, overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar, which connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea.
Gibraltar has a rich and diverse history. It has been inhabited since ancient times and has been ruled by various civilisations, including the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Moors, and Spanish. In 1704, it was captured by British forces during the War of the Spanish Succession, and in 1713, it was ceded to Britain under the Treaty of Utrecht.
As of September 2021, Gibraltar had a population of around 33,000 people. The majority of the population is of British and Spanish descent, and English is the official language, although many residents also speak Spanish.
Gibraltar's economy is largely based on services, particularly financial services, online gaming, and tourism. It is known as a tax haven with a favourable tax regime, attracting international businesses.
The most iconic landmark of Gibraltar is the Rock of Gibraltar, a massive limestone ridge that rises 426 meters (1,398 feet) above sea level. The rock is home to a nature reserve and several caves, including St. Michael's Cave, which is a popular tourist attraction.
Weather Winter (December to February) in Gibraltar are generally mild and somewhat wet. Average daytime temperatures range from around 10°C to 16°C (50°F to 61°F), while nighttime temperatures rarely drop below 8°C (46°F). Rainfall is more frequent during this period, but it's still relatively moderate compared to other Mediterranean regions.
Spring (March to May) brings milder temperatures and increasing amounts of sunshine. Daytime temperatures gradually rise from around 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) in March to around 18°C to 23°C (64°F to 73°F) in May. This season is considered a pleasant time to visit, as the weather is often comfortable and nature starts to bloom.
Summer (June to August) in Gibraltar are warm and dry, with average daytime temperatures ranging from around 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F). Occasionally, temperatures can exceed 30°C (86°F). July and August are the warmest months. Rainfall during the summer months is rare, and the region experiences a lot of sunshine.
Autumn (September to November) sees a gradual decrease in temperatures from the highs of summer. Daytime temperatures range from around 23°C to 28°C (73°F to 82°F) in September, dropping to around 17°C to 22°C (63°F to 72°F) in November. This season can be pleasant for travelers, with mild temperatures and less crowded tourist areas.
Cruise port
Google Maps port location: https://goo.gl/maps/nD5b6BTQRxhp6JhX9
The cruise port is around a 20 minute walk into town
Things to do
The Rock of Gibraltar is the iconic limestone rock formation and has become the territory's most famous landmark.
Why not take the Gibraltar Cable Car to the top for breathtaking views of the surrounding area and the Strait of Gibraltar. The cable car system was first opened to the public in 1966 and has since become one of the most iconic ways to experience the breathtaking views of the surrounding area and the Strait of Gibraltar.
It ascends to the top of the Rock of Gibraltar, covering a distance of approximately 1,400 meters (about 4,600 feet) and takes around 6 to 10 minutes each way, depending on weather conditions and passenger loading.
Throughout the ascent, passengers are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Gibraltar, the Mediterranean Sea, the Strait of Gibraltar, the Bay of Algeciras, and the coast of North Africa on clear days.
The cable car ride takes you to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, where you can explore various attractions, such as St. Michael's Cave, the Great Siege Tunnels, and the habitat of the famous Barbary macaques (tailless monkeys).
Tickets - Adult from £19 Child from £9*
St. Michael's Cave is one of the most famous and fascinating natural attractions located within the Rock of Gibraltar. It is a series of limestone caves and grottoes that have captivated visitors for centuries and was formed millions of years ago by rainwater seeping through the limestone rock and dissolving it, creating a network of underground chambers and passages. The stalactites and stalagmites found in the cave were formed over thousands of years due to the slow deposition of minerals carried by dripping water.
The cave is steeped in legend and mythology. According to local folklore, the cave was once considered bottomless and was believed to be the abode of the Devil. It was later Christianised, and the name 'St. Michael's Cave' is derived from the Christian archangel St. Michael.
Visitors can explore the cave's interior, which features impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and other unique rock formations. The cave's chambers are beautifully illuminated to showcase the natural wonders within.
The Great Siege Tunnels are a network of defensive tunnels located within the Rock of Gibraltar. These tunnels were constructed during the 18th century and played a significant role in the defence of Gibraltar during the Great Siege of 1779-1783, a critical episode in the territory's history.
The Great Siege of Gibraltar was a prolonged military campaign fought between the British and the Spanish and French forces during the American Revolutionary War. The siege began in 1779 and lasted for more than three and a half years until 1783.
During the siege, the British forces, led by Governor General George Augustus Eliott, realised the need to improve the fortifications on the Rock of Gibraltar to withstand the continuous bombardment from enemy forces. The British engineers, under the command of Lieutenant Colonel (later General) Sir William Green, devised a plan to dig a series of tunnels into the limestone rock to mount cannons at strategic points.
The Great Siege Tunnels allowed the British defenders to conceal their artillery and surprise the enemy by changing the positions of the cannons, preventing the attackers from targeting them accurately. This provided a crucial advantage to the defenders during the prolonged siege.
Today, visitors to Gibraltar can explore the Great Siege Tunnels and learn about the Rock's military history. The tunnels offer a glimpse into the challenges faced by the defenders during the siege and the ingenuity of the engineers who built them.
Dolphin watching in Gibraltar is a popular and exciting activity that allows visitors to observe and appreciate the wild dolphins that inhabit the waters surrounding the territory. The Strait of Gibraltar is a prime location for dolphin sightings due to its rich marine biodiversity and the presence of various dolphin species. Here's what you need to know about dolphin watching in Gibraltar:
The waters around Gibraltar are home to several dolphin species, including the common dolphin (delphinus delphis), striped dolphin (stenella coeruleoalba), and the charismatic bottlenose dolphin (tursiops truncatus). These dolphins are known for their playful behavior and acrobatic displays.
There are several licensed tour operators in Gibraltar that offer dolphin watching excursions. These tours typically depart from the marina area, and the experienced guides and boat captains know the best spots to encounter dolphins in their natural habitat.
Trips typically last around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the specific tour package and the proximity of the dolphins.
While dolphin sightings are quite common, they are still wild animals, and their presence can't be guaranteed. However, the chances of encountering dolphins are relatively high in the waters around Gibraltar.
Gibraltar: Dolphin Watching Tour - from £25 per person
Best Beaches Camp Bay and Little Bay form a delightful lido, boasting two children's swimming pools and a well-liked bar restaurant. Alternatively, venture to Catalan Bay Beach, located on the eastern side of The Rock, where you can enjoy a sandy beach equipped with restaurants, showers, and restroom facilities. |
Shopping
In the main town of Gibraltar, you'll come across beloved British high-street classics. From popular names like M&S, Costa, Hotel Chocolat, and duty-free shops, to a conveniently located Morrisons supermarket just a 15-minute walk from the ship. Most of these shops are situated near Casemates Square, the bustling heart of Gibraltar, found along Main Street.
Like a local Known as the 'warm one' in translation, Calentita holds the title of Gibraltar's national dish. Resembling a dark flour pizza without any toppings, this oven-baked delight is served hot. Its simple yet satisfying ingredients include chickpea flour, water, olive oil, and seasonings like salt and black pepper. Don't miss the chance to try this unique dish—seek it out and give it a taste! |
Recommended excursions
Gibraltar: Dolphin Watch Cruise & Cable Car Fast Track Combo - Book here from £38.50 per person
Gibraltar: Guided Tour by Bus Including Tickets - Book here from £36.33 per person
Prices correct at time of publishing this blog.
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