2026 Update: Gibraltar, a quirky tiny corner of Europe where Britain is hot and walkable to Spain! At just 6.8 km² in size, famed for it’s monkeys, army base and giant rock. Yet it is so much more. I was genuinely surprised by this Spanish neighbour. Fancy sitting sipping an Aperol Spritz able to see across to Africa, or being whisked out to sea to be surrounded by dolphins, nip to M&S for your snacks. Step back in time to this affordable sunshine filled weekend break this 2026 and discover why you should visit Gibraltar.
Discover the Gem of Gibraltar
How to get to Gibraltar
Gibraltar may be tiny, but arriving here feels anything but small. With its own international airport, landing in Gibraltar is an experience in itself. Your plane swoops dramatically past the iconic Rock before circling down towards one of the world’s most unusual runways. Stepping off the aircraft with the Mediterranean glittering nearby is a picture perfect moment and yes, I’ll admit it turned me into a bit of a plane geek. I was obsessed.
You can also arrive (or leave) via Spain by walking or driving across the land border from La Línea de la Concepción. It’s one of the few places in Europe where crossing into another country can be done on foot in minutes, passport in hand, Spanish turned British sunshine on your face. Or do an organised day trip from Malaga.
Getting from Gibraltar Airport into town Uber will be your best friend or there’s an even cheaper option. If you’re travelling light and staying near Ocean Village or the marina, just walk. It’s only about a 15 minute stroll and includes one of Gibraltar’s most unique experiences: crossing the airport runway itself. Yes, really. Traffic stops, barriers go up, and you walk straight across. Not many travellers can say they’ve taken a casual wander over an active runway but in Gibraltar, it’s all part of the charm.
Where to Stay in Gibraltar?
Gibraltar is small and so is its offering of luxury hotels. Holiday apartments and short term lets are a plenty but I just needed a hotel for a few nights. If you’re searching for a four/five star hotel in Gibraltar, then you may be disappointed with the limited choices. There were once plans for a new five star Hilton at the former Caleta Hotel site, but that development seems to have quietly disappeared. The main contenders you have are The Sunborn Yacht Hotel, The Rock Hotel and The Eliott Hotel.
I opted for the Sunborn. A permanently docked, ship-themed hotel in the marina that certainly ticks the ‘novelty stay’ box. While I’m not entirely convinced it delivers a full five-star luxury experience, it’s clean, comfortable and definitely memorable. With a rooftop deck pool and bar over looking the airport runway and Gibraltar rock towering over, it was the obvious choice for views and vibes!
If breakfast isn’t included, don’t worry. The marina just outside offers plenty of cafés and restaurants within a few minutes’ walk. With its waterside setting and rows of boats, Ocean Village and the marina area even reminded me a little of Southampton‘s marina back in the UK. Read more about the hotel and staying on the Sunborn in my full hotel review.
Where to Eat and Drink in Gibraltar
Sunbourn Aqua Bar
Whether you’re staying at the Sunborn Yacht Hotel or just visiting, the Aqua bar is one of the best places in Gibraltar for drinks with a view. Overlooking both the iconic Rock of Gibraltar and the airport runway, it’s a brilliant spot for plane watching, sunset cocktails and relaxed marina side dining. Read my full review of the Sunborn rooftop bar in Gibraltar.
Pizza Express at Ocean Village
Yes really Pizza Express but hear me out! It is a home away from home for us Brits! There are also other well known restaurants all in walking distance at Ocean Village. Whilst the food is the same, the setting is most definitely not! Sat on the marina edge, at sunset, prosseco in hand waiting for your favourite toppings to be prepared. Perfect! Oh and knowing you aren’t breaking the budget – genius.
Alfred’s Terrace at The Rock Hotel
There are some old school gems like Alfred’s at The Rock Hotel. Famous for hosting many a celebrity in its day. Old school glamour but now quite a tired hotel which is why it didn’t make the cut for our stay. However the terrace views at sunset was worth a visit for. However with a waiter, that at best, was trained at Faulty Towers it wasn’t quite the 5 star treatment we expected. We came for a sunset terrace drink, stayed for a very average but cheap 3 course dinner served with a lot of entertainment. Read my full review of Alfred’s Terrace and drinking and dining on this stunning terrace.
What to do in Gibraltar
Take a Boat Trip to Dolphin Spot!
If dolphin spotting is your thing then you are in for a treat. Just 15 minutes out to sea and the no frills boat was surrounded by hundreds of dolphins. Choose between two boat companies at the marina; yellow or blue. I was recommended yellow by my hotel. They had reports that they treated their customers better. I can vouch for this. Super kind and helpful, considering how often they must go out.
They constantly and generously pointed out pods of dolphins as these beautiful mammals glided through the waters. They moved the boat around to ensure we didn’t miss one back flip, especially from the the babies that love to show off. To read more or book the experience I had then GetYourGuide Dolphin Watching Tour is for you.
The Gibraltar Rock is so much more than a window seat attraction.
Wander Gibraltar Town
One of the best ways to get a feel for Gibraltar is simply to wander. Start at Grand Casemates Square, a historic, bomb proof barracks that has been transformed into a lively public square. Surrounded by colourful buildings, restaurants and bars, it has a distinctly Spanish feel and is a great place to stop for a drink or coffee.
From here, stroll towards Gibraltar’s main high street, where British high-street brands sit alongside souvenir shops, cafés and duty-free stores. Yes there is a M&S! It’s compact, easy to explore on foot and full of character a fascinating blend of British and the Med influences that makes Gibraltar feel so familiar yet so unique. To learn more about the history
Visit the Top of the Rock
No trip to Gibraltar is complete without heading to the top of the Rock. Apparently! Mine was just fine without it despite being tempted by the panoramic views. Stood being able to see that stretch across Spain, the Mediterranean and, on clear days, all the way to Africa. It was tempting to take the cable car up. Maybe if there was a rooftop bar I would have gone and got over my monkey fear! As as you also get to see and meet the inhabitants of the rock – the Barbary macaques. These cheeky monkeys roam freely and have no respect for personal boundaries! They also can take a liking to your belongings! So I skipped this. And instead listened to the monkeys from the Eliot Hotel bar – yes you can hear them all the way down the rock!
For those that do brave it up there is also a nature reserve, stalagmites and stalactites in St Michael’s Cave and see some of the 600 species of flowering plants! Hikers heaven as you can actually climb the rock but if you would like a safer route then get chauffeured (in a mini bus) and take the Gibraltar Rock Tour.
Take a Day Trip to Tangier in Africa
One of Gibraltar’s biggest perks is its proximity to Africa. Tangier in Morocco is less than two hours away by ferry, making it an incredible day-trip option from Gibraltar. While I didn’t manage to do this on my visit (it was the time of testing and travel restrictions!) it would be high on my list next time. What I had learnt was ferries and organised day tours can be pricey, but the experience of leaving Europe and arriving in North Africa so quickly is pretty magical. Packing your M&S snacks and sail into Africa in a less that 2 hours. It does feel like going to a galaxy far away, (yes Morocco is where original Star was as filmed!). Remember to check visa requirements if you want to do this.
Visit the Beaches of Gibraltar
Gibraltar may be known for its Rock rather than its coastline, but it still offers a lovely trio of beaches that are easy to explore in a single day. You can walk between them via a scenic coastal path, which reminded me of Sydney’s Bondi, Bronte and Coogee walk – though with less dramatic scenery and takes half the time. The three main beaches are Eastern Beach, Catalan Bay and Sandy Bay. Start at Sandy Bay and wander back or start at Eastern beach and get an uber back.
Eastern Beach
The Eastern Beach is the closest to the town and even meets the runway! A long stretch of beautiful sand and a cute little beach bar Restaurante Bella Vita for an chilled coffee. I was determined to swim but the flags were red. Undefeated we continued our quest to the next beach!
Catalan Bay
Catalan Bay is a chocolate box seaside colourful village. colourful houses, a relaxed vibe, and the kind of charm that makes you want to linger. The village’s hosts the prettiest gem: the church of Our Lady of Sorrows, perfectly framed against the Rock in the background. It’s a picture-perfect spot that captures the unique charm and character of this seaside village.
The beach itself is small but pretty, and the beach is lined with relaxed restaurants – perfect for a leisurely lunch. Order a local Gibraltarian beer, soak up the sun, and enjoy views of a tiny Rock this time! It’s the kind of spot where you can pause and watch the world go by.
Sandy Bay
Lastly, head to Sandy Bay. Just a 10-minute walk from Catalan Bay along the coast. This stretch of golden sand quickly became my favourite and yes I made it in the sea! In the height of summer, you’ll find sun loungers available, but not if you visit off-season, like I did.
So top tip just pick up a cheap beach towel in the town if you came with just hand luggage. With its soft sand, gentle waves, and peaceful atmosphere, Sandy Bay is ideal for anyone looking to unwind while enjoying Gibraltar’s surprisingly scenic coastline.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Gibraltar and why you should
If you’re after a hassle free, quick, and affordable sunshine break, don’t overlook this little city by the sea. Beaches, shopping, marina margaritas and a walkable airport – Gibraltar is a tiny destination that leaves a surprisingly big impression.
Oh, and don’t forget to pick up your own edible Rock of Gibraltar souvenir. Whether you visit from Spain or fly in this is a quirky Britain in the sunshine – everyone needs to experience!
