Gibraltar – a tiny territory on Spain’s southern coast, famous for its towering Rock and fascinating military history. Watch the video for a first look, then use the guide below to plan your visit.
Last updated: October 31, 2026
Gibraltar at a glance
| Status | British Overseas Territory at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula |
| Languages | English (official); Spanish is widely spoken |
| Currency | Gibraltar pound, at par with the British pound; UK pounds are accepted |
| Nearest big airport for U.S. travelers | Málaga (AGP), roughly 1.5 to 2 hours by road |
| Ideal stay | A full day trip, or 1 to 2 nights |
Getting there
There are no nonstop flights from the U.S. Most American visitors fly into Málaga (often via another European hub) and continue by rental car, bus or tour along the Costa del Sol. Gibraltar’s own small airport mainly has flights from the United Kingdom. Its runway famously crosses the main road into town, which closes briefly whenever a plane lands or takes off.
Many visitors park on the Spanish side in La Línea de la Concepción and walk across the border, because driving into Gibraltar can mean long queues. If you rent a car in Spain, check whether your rental terms allow you to drive it into Gibraltar.
Top things to do
- Upper Rock Nature Reserve: the main attraction, with views across the Strait to Morocco on clear days. You can go up by cable car, by tour or on foot.
- The Barbary macaques: Gibraltar’s famous wild monkeys live on the Upper Rock. Do not feed or touch them; feeding them is prohibited, and they will grab bags and food.
- St. Michael’s Cave: a large limestone cave used for concerts and events.
- Great Siege Tunnels: tunnels dug into the Rock by the British army in the 18th century.
- Europa Point: the lighthouse and viewpoint at the southern tip.
- Main Street: shops, pubs and British-style restaurants.
Practical tips
- Bring your passport: you cross an external border between Spain and Gibraltar. Border procedures between Spain and Gibraltar have been the subject of UK–EU negotiations, so check the current rules before your trip.
- Money: card payments are widely accepted. Euros are often taken but at a poor exchange rate, and Gibraltar pound notes cannot easily be used in the UK, so pay by card where possible.
- Weather: the Rock can be windy and cloudy even when the coast is sunny; bring a light jacket.
- Time: with crowds and border queues, start early if you visit as a day trip.
Combining Gibraltar with a road trip through southern Spain? Compare car rental prices in Málaga and read our tips on one-way car rentals.
Last reviewed: October 31, 2026. Border rules, opening hours and prices can change; check official sources before you travel.
