Gibraltar Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
🛂 Entry and Logistics
Do I need a passport to enter? Yes, it is an international border. Even if you are coming from Spain, you must pass through customs and immigration.
Can I enter with a Schengen visa? Generally no. Gibraltar has its own visa requirements, though some exceptions exist for specific residencies.
Is the border crossing slow? It varies wildly. Commuter times (8:00 AM and 5:00 PM) are busiest. Check the “frontier camera” online before heading out.
Should I drive across the border? Most travelers advise against it. Parking is a nightmare and queues can take hours. Park in La Línea (Spain) and walk across.
Is there a train to Gibraltar? No. The nearest station is San Roque-La Línea in Spain, about 10km away.
Can I walk across the airport runway? Yes! It is one of the few places in the world where the main road crosses an active runway.
What happens when a plane lands? Traffic and pedestrians are stopped by barriers, much like a level crossing for a train.
Is Gibraltar in the EU? No, it left with the UK during Brexit.
Is there a ferry from Spain? No, but there are occasionally ferries from Morocco (Tangier).
Do I need a GHIC/EHIC card? It’s recommended for UK citizens, but private travel insurance is always safer.
💱 Money and Language
What is the official currency? The Gibraltar Pound (GIP).
Can I use British Pounds (GBP)? Yes, they are accepted 1:1.
Can I use Euros? Most shops accept them but at a poor exchange rate. You’ll get change in GIP/GBP.
Will my GIP coins work in the UK? No. Spend them or exchange them before you leave.
Are credit cards widely accepted? Yes, almost everywhere takes contactless.
Do I need to tip? It’s not mandatory, but 10% is appreciated for good service in restaurants.
What language is spoken? English is the official language. Most locals are bilingual in Spanish and many speak Llanito (a unique code-switching mix).
Is it expensive? It’s comparable to the UK. Alcohol and tobacco are cheaper due to tax-free status; rent and fresh produce can be higher.
Are there many ATMs? Yes, Main Street is lined with them.
Is there tax-free shopping? Yes, Gibraltar is a VAT-free jurisdiction.
🐒 The Monkeys (Barbary Macaques)
Where can I see the monkeys? Mostly at the Apes’ Den or the top of the Rock.
Are they dangerous? They can be. They are wild animals. Do not touch or corner them.
Can I feed them? No. It is illegal and carries a heavy fine (up to £4,000).
Will they steal my bag? Yes, if they think there is food inside. Keep bags zipped and on your front.
Should I hide my plastic bags? Definitely. They associate the crinkle of plastic with snacks.
What do I do if one jumps on me? Stay calm, don’t scream, and walk away slowly. They usually hop off once they realize you don’t have food.
Are they actually “apes” or “monkeys”? They are macaques (monkeys), but locals traditionally call them “apes.”
Is it true that if the monkeys leave, the British leave? That is the local legend!
When is the best time to see them? They are out all day, but they are most active in the morning.
Can I take a selfie with them? From a distance, yes. Don’t use a selfie stick near them; they might grab it.
⛰️ Sightseeing and The Rock
Is the Cable Car running? As of 2026, check local updates as it has been undergoing significant maintenance/replacement projects.
How much is the Nature Reserve entry? Roughly £19–£20, but often bundled with the Cable Car for around £35.
Can I walk up the Rock for free? No, if you enter the Nature Reserve area (where the sites are), you must pay the entry fee.
What are the “Mediterranean Steps”? A very steep, strenuous, but beautiful hiking trail on the east face of the Rock.
Is St. Michael’s Cave worth it? Yes, it’s a stunning natural grotto with an immersive light and sound show.
What are the Great Siege Tunnels? Man-made tunnels from the 18th century used for defense; a highlight for history buffs.
Can I visit the WWII Tunnels? Yes, but these usually require a guided tour (book in advance).
What is the Skywalk? A glass-floored viewing platform 340 meters above sea level.
Where is the best view? The O’Hara’s Battery at the highest point of the Rock.
How long does it take to see the Rock? At least 3–5 hours if you are walking/taking the cable car.
Is there a bus to the top? No, public buses don’t go into the Nature Reserve. You must walk, take the Cable Car, or a licensed Taxi Tour.
Are the Taxi Tours worth it? They are great for those with limited time or mobility, as they hit the main spots in 90 minutes.
What is the “Gibraltar Pass”? A digital pass that covers most attractions and public transport; highly recommended by travelers.
Is the Moorish Castle open? Yes, you can visit the Tower of Homage.
What is Europa Point? The southernmost tip, featuring a lighthouse, a mosque, and views of Africa.
Can you see Africa from Gibraltar? Yes, on a clear day, the Moroccan coast is very visible.
Are there beaches? Yes. Eastern Beach (sunniest), Catalan Bay (colorful village), and Sandy Bay (quieter).
What is the “Levanter”? A unique cloud formation that hangs over the Rock when the east wind blows.
Is the Botanic Garden free? Yes, the Alameda Gardens are free and beautiful.
Can I visit the 100 Ton Gun? Yes, it’s a massive Victorian era coastal gun located at Napier of Magdala Battery.
🍴 Food and Drink
What is a “must-eat” local dish? Calentita—a chickpea flour pancake.
Is the tap water safe to drink? Yes, it is perfectly safe, though it can have a slight desalinated taste.
Where are the best restaurants? Ocean Village (marina views) and Chatham Counterguard (tapas/bars).
Is there a Morrisons? Yes! It’s a bit of a local landmark for British tourists wanting familiar snacks.
Are there traditional British pubs? Plenty. Try Lord Nelson in Casemates Square or The Star Bar (Gibraltar’s oldest).
Can I find good seafood? Yes, especially in the village of Catalan Bay.
Is coffee expensive? No, it’s quite affordable. Ask for a “Sombra” or “Nube” if you want Spanish-style coffee.
Do I need to book restaurants? On Friday and Saturday nights, yes, especially in Ocean Village.
Is alcohol cheap? Spirits and tobacco are significantly cheaper than in the UK or Spain.
What is “Irish Town”? A street behind Main Street famous for its bars and historical architecture.
🏨 Accommodation
Should I stay in Gibraltar or Spain? Stay in Gibraltar for the experience; stay in La Línea to save money.
Is the Sunborn Hotel a boat? Yes, it’s a 5-star “superyacht” hotel permanently docked in the marina.
Are there hostels? Options are very limited. Most budget travelers stay in Spain.
Is it noisy? The area near Casemates can be lively at night.
Are there Airbnbs? Yes, but they can be pricey compared to the Spanish side.
Is the Elliott Hotel good? It’s a popular, central 4-star choice with a rooftop pool.
Is the Caleta Hotel open? It has been undergoing major redevelopment; check status before booking.
Can I camp in Gibraltar? No, camping is not permitted.
Are hotels accessible? Most modern ones are, but the old town has many steep steps.
Do hotels have UK or EU plugs? Most use the UK 3-pin plug (Type G).
🚌 Transport and Safety
How do I get around? Use the red/blue public buses. They are cheap and efficient.
How much is a bus ticket? Around £1.80 for a single, or £6 for a day pass.
Do buses take contactless? Many now do, but it’s safer to have some cash or use the transport app.
Is Gibraltar safe? Extremely. It has one of the lowest crime rates in the world.
Can I walk everywhere? Yes, the town area is very compact.
What side of the road do they drive on? The right (unlike the UK).
Are there Ubers? No. There are local taxis, but no rideshare apps.
Is the airport within walking distance? Yes, it’s a 10-minute walk from the border to the terminal.
Can I rent a car? Yes, but it’s generally unnecessary unless you’re heading into Spain.
What is the “Bus Tracker”? A handy website (track.bus.gi) to see where the buses are in real-time.
🛍️ Shopping and Services
When do shops close? Most shops on Main Street close by 6:00 PM and are closed or have limited hours on Sundays.
Is it really duty-free? Yes, but there are strict limits on how much you can take back into Spain or the UK.
What are the tobacco limits? Usually 200 cigarettes (one carton) when entering Spain.
What are the alcohol limits? Usually 1 liter of spirits when entering Spain.
Can I buy electronics cheaper? Sometimes, but check the warranty and “Gibraltar vs. Online” prices first.
Is there a hospital? Yes, St Bernard’s Hospital is modern and well-equipped.
Are there pharmacies? Yes, many on Main Street. They usually follow UK standards.
Can I use my UK mobile data? Usually yes, but check with your provider as some treat Gibraltar as “Roaming.”
Is there free Wi-Fi? Many cafes and public squares have “Gibfibrespeed” hotspots.
Where is the Post Office? On Main Street. You can buy unique Gibraltar stamps there.
🎭 Culture and Events
When is National Day? September 10th. The whole place turns red and white.
Is there a cinema? Yes, at Leisure Island.
What is “Leisure Island”? A complex with a casino, bowling, cinema, and restaurants.
Are there many festivals? Yes, the Music Festival and Literary Festival are annual highlights.
What is the Gibraltar Museum like? Small but excellent, built over original Moorish Baths.
Can I get married in Gibraltar? Yes! It’s famous for “easy” weddings (Sean Connery and John Lennon did it here).
Is it religious? Yes, there is a mix of Catholic, Anglican, Jewish, Muslim, and Hindu communities.
What is the “Trafalgar Cemetery”? A peaceful historic site where those who died in the Battle of Trafalgar are buried.
Is there nightlife? It’s mostly centered around pubs and the Ocean Village marinas.
Is 1 day enough? You can see the highlights in a day, but 2-3 days allows for a much more relaxed pace.