A small territory of the United Kingdom in the far south of Spain, Gibraltar is a tax-free shopping and banking haven between Europe and Africa. With its ubiquitous monkeys, tunnels and the scenic rock, Gibraltar is one of the places that have had more than their share of fascinating and diverse tourist attractions, particularly so if you take into account the miniature size of this British protectorate.
Historical sights. A British territory since 1713, Gibraltar hosts interesting historical sites. The Rock of Gibraltar, which has during the course of history performed a task of a strategically important military construction includes a network of underground Siege tunnels that today form a museum and a famous tourist attraction. There is a natural cave called St Michael's Cave nearby. See also the British colonial architecture in Gibraltar town, the huge Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque in the south of Gibraltar, and the scenic Mediterranean Steps.
Gibraltar monkeys. Another thing Gibraltar is famous for is monkeys, Barbary macaques that live on the Upper Rock. Adding the attractiveness of these rare creatures, they carry symbolic value to Gibraltar, as according to some beliefs the area stays under British rule as long as the monkeys remain in the rock of Gibraltar. In addition to the famous monkeys, Gibraltar offers possibilities for dolphin watching.
For recreation, Gibraltar hosts four sandy beaches. The lively nightlife in Gibraltar is enjoyable, and visitors can also enjoy quite good facilities for duty-free shopping in Gibraltar, and with nice hotels in Gibraltar. Cruises from Gibraltar, as well as activities like sailing, fishing and diving are also well available.
Scenic rock with underground tunnels and monkeys - Gibraltar
Consisting mainly of a 426 meters high rock located in the southern corner of Europe between Spain and Morocco, Gibraltar's appearance and location talk of not only strategic importance, but also of touristic attraction. Climb to the main rock of Gibraltar or to Europa Point, and you will be looking at the point where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean, with Africa visible in the horizon. However, Gibraltar is much more than a place with stunning views.Historical sights. A British territory since 1713, Gibraltar hosts interesting historical sites. The Rock of Gibraltar, which has during the course of history performed a task of a strategically important military construction includes a network of underground Siege tunnels that today form a museum and a famous tourist attraction. There is a natural cave called St Michael's Cave nearby. See also the British colonial architecture in Gibraltar town, the huge Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque in the south of Gibraltar, and the scenic Mediterranean Steps.
Gibraltar monkeys. Another thing Gibraltar is famous for is monkeys, Barbary macaques that live on the Upper Rock. Adding the attractiveness of these rare creatures, they carry symbolic value to Gibraltar, as according to some beliefs the area stays under British rule as long as the monkeys remain in the rock of Gibraltar. In addition to the famous monkeys, Gibraltar offers possibilities for dolphin watching.
For recreation, Gibraltar hosts four sandy beaches. The lively nightlife in Gibraltar is enjoyable, and visitors can also enjoy quite good facilities for duty-free shopping in Gibraltar, and with nice hotels in Gibraltar. Cruises from Gibraltar, as well as activities like sailing, fishing and diving are also well available.
Practical information for your trip to Gibraltar
Gibraltar has a Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers and mild winters. In summertime (June-September), average monthly high temperatures in Gibraltar rise over 25 degrees of Celsius, and with their wintertime (November-March) counterparts staying around 15-20 degrees, weather in Gibraltar is quite pleasant throughout the year.
Photo: Allie_Caulfield, used under Creative Commons License (By 2.0)
Overall, Gibraltar is worth a visit anytime, but if you want to reach Gibraltar at its best, come between April and October.
How to get there. Located in one of the southernmost points of Europe as a self-governing territory of United Kingdom surrounded by Spain, Gibraltar is easily reached through Spanish airports such as Malaga. However, there is also a small airport available in Gibraltar, offering direct flights to Gibraltar mainly from the United Kingdom. Many people visit Gibraltar by a Mediterranean cruise, and Gibraltar is also easily reached by road from Spain through the border town of La Línea.
Getting around. Gibraltar is a compact area with steep cliffs, which can be explored by foot. Taxis are the main form of transport in the region. There is also one bus line in Gibraltar, as well as cable cars available for rising to the main rock. If you visit Gibraltar by car, note that traffic in the small territory is often congested. Gibraltar is a safe destination with no major crime problems, where everyone speaks at least some English. Euros are accepted in the vast majority of shops and restaurants in Gibraltar.
hint See also these nearby destinations: Ronda, Costa del Sol and Malaga, Seville
