Planning to visit Gibraltar on your own? See the best of this British Overseas Territory with these passes, activities, and tours in Gibraltar.
By Liza S. | Updated 16 Apr 2024 | Gibraltar | Cities |
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Visiting Gibraltar on your own and wondering how to experience the best of this territory? Discover the enchanting Rock of Gibraltar with some of the best passes, tours and activities this area has to offer.
Located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant marine life. This article guides you through the top-rated local tours, activities, and passes, including exhilarating dolphin watching excursions, guided experiences to the iconic Rock, and the all-encompassing GibraltarPass which provides access to major attractions.
Whether you're looking to explore the depths of St Michael's Cave or enjoy the panoramic views from the top of the Rock, Gibraltar promises unforgettable experiences.Read on to find the best Gibraltar tours, activities, and passes for your visit.
Ready to book? Here are quick links to our Gibraltar recommendations.
Best Passes & Tickets in Gibraltar:
Best Tours & Activities in Gibraltar:
Not a fan of tours at all and want to DIY your Gibraltar visit? Here are two passes/tickets that can simplify your Gibraltar experience and give you access to the best sites and attractions in the territory.
If you’re planning to visit Gibraltar independently, the 1-Day Gibraltar Pass is your essential travel companion to explore Gibraltar's top sites at your own pace.
This one-day pass not only grants access to major attractions like the Nature Reserve, the Skywalk, St Michael's Cave, and Great Siege & WWII Tunnels but also includes selected public bus transportation within Gibraltar and the Cable Car to the top of the Rock. It's packed with additional perks such as exclusive discounts and freebies in over 100 local shops and restaurants.
Designed for convenience, the pass is digital and can be easily accessed on your mobile device for a seamless sightseeing experience.
The Gibraltar Pass is the stress-free, money-saving way to experience the best of Gibraltar.
Get your Gibraltar Pass in advance here:
The Upper Rock Nature Reserve is a must-visit when in Gibraltar. Here, you’ll have the unique opportunity to explore a variety of natural and historical attractions within a breathtaking setting.
The reserve is home to the famous Barbary macaques, Europe’s only free-living monkeys, and offers panoramic views across two continents. It also encompasses several historical and natural sites including the Great Siege Tunnels and St. Michael's Cave, making it a must-visit for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
For nature lovers, the diverse flora and fauna, along with well-maintained trails, provide a perfect backdrop for a day of exploration and discovery. Plus, you’ll get stunning views of the landscape around Gibraltar.
With the Upper Rock Nature Reserve ticket, you’ll get unrestricted access to all the major attractions within the reserve. This includes the famous Upper Rock, St. Michael's Cave, the Apes' Den, and the Great Siege Tunnels, among others.
In total, there 17 attractions included in the ticket.
This ticket allows you to explore at your leisure, ensuring you don’t miss any of the cultural or natural highlights. It simplifies your visit, combining the best of Gibraltar’s scenic beauty and historical significance into one convenient package.
⚠️ Note: This ticket only offers entry into the nature reserve - transportation and/or cable car is not included. As such, the 1-Day Gibraltar Pass offers better value as it includes bus transportation or cable car to the top of the Rock.
➡️ Get your Upper Rock Nature Reserve tickets here
Visit St Michael's Cave on a Rock Tour
Prefer a more structured and guided experience to learn more about Gibraltar’s history, culture, and nature? Then check out these top-rated activities and tours in Gibraltar that cover everything from water experiences to walking tours and more!
Add one or more of these experiences to upsize your Gibraltar visit!
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5 | ⌛Tour Length: 1.5 Hours | ⏰ Start Time: 11.00am
Want a guided experience to learn more about Gibraltar’s history but don’t want your whole day to be taken up by a tour? Then this 1.5 hour Rock Tour could be the best tour option for you.
Clocking in at just 90 minutes, this iconic tour offers an awesome introduction to Gibraltar and its most famous sites. On this mini-bus tour, you’ll visit Europa Point, the fascinating St. Michael's Cave, and parts of the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, home to the native Barbary macaques at Apes’ Den.
Your local guide will provide commentary throughout the tour, enriching the experience with historical and cultural insights.
I’ve taken one of these tours on my Gibraltar visit and it really is an efficient way to see the territory’s key sites in a short period of time. This tour is perfect for day trippers to Gibraltar or even if you’re staying longer and want a quick introduction to the area.
An entry ticket to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve is included, so you can choose to stay on the Rock and visit the other attractions at the end of the tour. This saves you from having to arrange your own transportation up the Rock or paying for the cable car!
“Our guide was sensational. Amusing, informative, and even took us to a view point not listed on the tour where we could see the planes take off from Gibraltar Airport.” - Susan (See more reviews or book your tour now)
This Rock tour is ideal for those looking to get a thorough overview of Gibraltar’s most significant sites in just 90 minutes, combining stunning views, rich history, and local wildlife. You’ll then have the rest of your time in Gibraltar to explore sites and attractions that most interest you.
⚠️ Note: This tour begins at 11.00am so if you’re visiting for the day, be sure to allow enough time to arrive to Gibraltar, get through the border crossing, and make your way to the tour meeting point!
➡️ Check availability and rates for this tour
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 | ⌛Tour Length: 1.45 / 2.5 / 3.5 Hours | ⏰ Start Time: Flexible
Prefer a more personalised and private experience? Consider booking a private Gibraltar Inside Out Tour.
This private tour is available in 3 options: the Standard 1.5H Tour, the Extended 2.5H Tour, and the Intermediate 3.5H Tour.
Choose the tour length that best suits your interests and time and you also have the flexibility of choosing your start time. If you’re coming from Spain, there’s the option of getting picked up at the Gibraltar border which is very convenient and hassle-free.
The Standard Tour covers significant landmarks including the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, St. Michael's Cave, and the Great Siege Tunnels, offering a glimpse into Gibraltar's military and cultural heritage. The longer tours cover more ground and more attractions in Gibraltar, if you have more time.
“Carl our guide made this a very special experience for us. We had looked forward to seeing Gibraltar for a long time. Carl answered all the questions and made sure that this was an educational and fun day for us. It’s no wonder that this is the # 1 tour of Gibraltar.” - Frederic (See more reviews or book your tour now)
This private tour is perfect for groups looking for a private, detailed introduction to Gibraltar's main attractions within a short period.
➡️ Check rates and availability for the Standard 1.5H Tour | the Extended 2.5H Tour | the Intermediate 3.5H Tour
Europa Point in Gibraltar
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 | ⌛Tour Length: 1 hour | ⏰ Start Time: 12.00pm and 2.00pm
Did you know that the waters of Gibraltar are home to 3 species of dolphins? Join this 1-hour dolphin-watching tour for the thrilling experience of observing dolphins in their natural environment around Gibraltar's waters.
Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and families, this activity offers an up-close encounter with the playful and intelligent dolphins that inhabit the Strait of Gibraltar.
The highlight of the tour is the chance to see different species of dolphins, including the Common, Striped, and Bottlenose dolphins, frolicking and swimming freely. The tour boat is designed to provide excellent viewing opportunities, ensuring memorable experiences for all participants.
The tour lasts approximately 60 minutes, making it a perfect short adventure that can be combined with other activities in Gibraltar. Professional guides accompany the tour, providing insightful commentary about the dolphins and their habitat.
“My husband and I greatly enjoyed this trip. The staff were all so lovely, knowledgeable, and had a fantastic sense of humour. We saw lots of dolphins in their natural habitat, and it was clear that the staff very much cared about the welfare of the animals.” - V L (See more reviews or book your tour now)
It is advised to book early as these tours are popular and can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. The tour is weather-dependent, and it’s best to confirm conditions and availability close to your planned date.
Dolphin watching in Gibraltar is available year-round although November to January is said to be the best time to see baby dolphins.
This dolphin watching tour is a must-do in Gibraltar for families and anyone looking to connect with nature and witness the majestic beauty of dolphins in the wild.
➡️ Check availability and rates for this tour
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 | ⌛Tour Length: 3 Hours | ⏰ Start Time: 11.00am
Experience Gibraltar in a unique, active, and eco-friendly way with the E-Bike Rock Tour. This activity offers a dynamic way to explore the landscape, combining the comfort of electric bikes with the thrill of discovery.
On this 3-hour experience, you’ll enjoy a guided tour that includes major sites such as Europa Point, the Pillars of Hercules, and the nature reserve. The e-bikes make navigating the Rock’s varied terrain smooth and enjoyable, suitable for most fitness levels.
Electric bikes, helmets and bottled water are provided and all entry fees are included. It’s essential to secure a spot in advance, as tours are limited in number. Don’t forget to wear comfortable clothing and suitable footwear for biking. You may also want to bring light layers as conditions can change.
“I can't say enough about this tour! Fantastic e-bikes, great guide (David), and such an easy way to see all the sites and views in Gibraltar. If you are coming to visit, I highly recommend this tour. The bikes make it so so easy to get up to the top of the rock, and of course, the way down is fun, too! David was very knowledgable and we learned so much.” - Diane (See more reviews or book your tour now)
This e-bike tour is perfect for those looking to combine adventure with sightseeing, offering a fresh perspective on Gibraltar’s stunning views and historical sites.
⚠️ Note: This experience is suitable for travellers over 5’1” (155cm) tall and over 12 years of age. To enjoy the tour, you should have a moderate physical fitness level and must be confident cycling in moderate traffic and riding on steep gradients.
➡️ Check availability and rates for this tour
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 | ⌛Tour Length: 3.5 Hours | ⏰ Start Time: 1.00pm
This walking tour invites you to explore the Upper Rock Nature Reserve on foot, providing an intimate look at Gibraltar’s natural landscapes and historic sites.
You'll traverse through paths leading to spectacular viewpoints and key historical sites, including the Mediterranean Steps, the Moorish Castle and Apes’ Den, home to Gibraltar’s famous Barbary macaques.
The group size for the walking tour is kept small (max 10 pax) to ensure a more intimate experience. Participants should have a moderate level of fitness as you’ll be walking uphill to get to the Upper Rock. Comfortable walking shoes are essential and be sure to bring enough water as well.
This experience is ideal for those who enjoy a physical adventure combined with historical exploration and scenic views.
“I highly recommend this small group experience as an alternative to driving or the cable car. It provides access to amazing views and hidden gems off the main trek and away from the crowds. Stephen's knowledge of Gibraltar is extensive, which gave us a better understanding and appreciation of its history and insight into its current climate. When I first set sight on the rock I had concerns about my ability to climb it, as I am no athlete and who has only moderate fitness. But Stephen is so accommodating and understanding of your capabilities and made the walk very enjoyable. This is an experience not to be missed!” - Theresa (See more reviews or book your tour now)
⚠️ Note: The walking tour does not include entry tickets to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. You’ll purchase the ticket at the entrance to the nature reserve. Only card payment is accepted.
➡️ Check availability and rates for this tour
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 | ⌛Tour Length: 1 Hour | ⏰ Start Time: 4.00pm & 6.00pm
Want a unique experience in Gibraltar? Dive into the intriguing world of spirit production with this gin distillery tour and tasting in Gibraltar. This experience offers a behind-the-scenes look at how local spirits are crafted, from distillation to bottling.
The tour includes 6 tastings of gin, a walkthrough of the distillation process, and insights into the ingredients and techniques used.
Given the late afternoon start time, this is ideal for travellers who intend to stay longer in Gibraltar. The experience is located in the town centre, making it very convenient as you can continue exploring Main Street or head for dinner afterwards.
“Fantastic gin tasting, best I have ever done. The hour was rammed full of the history of gin coupled with examples of gin to demonstrate the historical facts. It really was very good and a brilliant start to an evening out.” - Laura (See more reviews or book your tour now)
This tour is perfect for connoisseurs and anyone interested in the craft of distillation and the unique flavours of Gibraltar’s spirits.
➡️ Check availability and rates for this tour
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 | ⌛Tour Length: Half-day or Full Day | ⏰ Start Time: Flexible
For a luxurious and unforgettable experience in Gibraltar, check out this private cruise by yacht.
You’ll embark on a luxurious sailing adventure around Gibraltar's scenic coastline aboard the elegant performance yacht, Starlet of Dover. This tour combines the thrill of sailing with the comfort of a crewed yacht.
With the option of a half-day or full-day experience, you’ll enjoy the stunning views of the Mediterranean and perhaps even spot dolphins alongside the boat. There’ll be a swim/lunch stop where you can in the water: swim, snorkelling or stand up paddle boarding.
Snorkel equipment, life jackets, lunch and light refreshments are all included… plus, you’ll have the yacht just for your group!
Ideal for those seeking a premium and personalised sailing experience, this tour offers a unique perspective of Gibraltar from the water.
“John and Alex are great hosts. We had a delightful day on the water of sailing, swimming, eating and sight seeing. They are very knowledgeable about the area, fantastic sailors and great people. We would highly recommend this day trip to anyone who loves to be on the water!” - Lena (See more reviews or book your tour now)
➡️ Check availability and rates for this tour
I hope this guide has helped you decide on which pass, activity, or tour to add to your Gibraltar visit. Whether you prefer a 100% DIY experience or have a local expert guide you, there’s a lot to explore and discover in Gibraltar!
If you prefer to visit Gibraltar without any tour at all, then the One-Day Gibraltar Pass is my top pick.
As for the best guided experiences that's suitable for most travellers, you can't go wrong with the Rock of Gibraltar Tour or the Gibraltar Dolphin-Watching Tour.
Exploring Gibraltar through these diverse tours offers a deeper understanding of its unique charm and historical significance. From leisurely e-bike rides and enriching walking tours to thrilling dolphin watching and luxurious yacht adventures, each experience is tailored to showcase the best of Gibraltar.
Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or someone seeking adventure on the high seas, I hope these activities and tours provide memorable moments for your Gibraltar visit.
Buen viaje!
Want a 100% stress-free way to visit Gibraltar on a day trip? Check out the best Gibraltar day tours from Malaga/Costa del Sol, Seville, and Cadiz which include round-trip transportation, a guided experience, and more!.
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