After a few days of soaking up the sun and culture in the picturesque Spanish cities of Malaga or Marbella, it may be worth considering a day trip to the unique and fascinating British-governed territory of Gibraltar.
Located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar is a tiny land mass of just 2.6 square miles, but it is packed with history, culture, and natural beauty. One of the most famous attractions is the Rock of Gibraltar, a towering limestone formation that provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Visitors can take a cable car to the top of the rock and explore the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, which is home to Barbary macaques, Europe’s only wild monkey population. Other top attractions include the Great Siege Tunnels, a network of tunnels built during the 18th century that played a crucial role in defending Gibraltar from invaders, and St. Michael’s Cave, a stunning natural cave system that is now used for concerts and events. With its unique blend of British and Spanish influences, Gibraltar is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Costa del Sol.
Ever dreamt of traversing the borders of two continents in one swift journey? A day trip to Gibraltar from Malaga or Marbella offers precisely that, blending the sun-soaked charm of southern Spain with the unique mix of British and Mediterranean influences that make up Gibraltar. In this article, we will guide you through planning a day trip that will leave you with memories for a lifetime, covering everything from transportation options to must-visit attractions, and valuable practical tips.
“Gibraltar, a place where cultures collide, history comes alive, and natural wonders abound.”
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply a curious traveler seeking to experience something out of the ordinary, Gibraltar promises a remarkable journey. From the legendary Pillars of Hercules to the enchanting St Michael’s Cave, the panoramic views from the Top of the Rock Skywalk Glass Viewing Platform, the historical Great Siege Tunnels, and the architectural marvels of the Moorish Castle and Old Town of Gibraltar, there’s indeed something for everyone here.
- Private Tour of Gibraltar: Experience the best of Gibraltar with a private tour which allows you to explore at your own pace and tailor your trip according to your interests.
- Border Control: Get practical tips and know about the necessary documents required for crossing the land border between Spain and Gibraltar, ensuring a hassle-free entry.
So, buckle up, and let’s embark on this exciting day trip to Gibraltar from Malaga or Marbella.
Table of Contents
Private Tour of Gibraltar
The private tour consists of four stops which takes approximately one hour and forty-five minutes.
- Pillars of Hercules
- St Michael’s Cave
- Top of the Rock with Skywalk & Monkeys
- The Great Siege Tunnels
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The Pillars of Hercules
“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” – Ibn Battuta
One of the attractions of this tour is The Pillars of Hercules. At the Pillars you will enjoy the views of North Africa Morocco. You will see where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea, this being the only entrance to the Mediterranean. You will be above Europe Point, the end point of Europe.
According to Greek mythology Hercules had to take on twelve tasks. One of these tasks was to bring the cattle of Geryon from the west to Eurytheus.
On his journey Hercules had to cross the Atlas Mountains. Rather than climbing over these mountains, he used his great strength to smash through them and as a result, he brought the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean together.
After he had achieved this task, the result was what is now known as The Pillars of Hercules. This became the Rock of Gibraltar on the northern side and Jebel Musa in Morocco on the southern side.
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St Michael’s Cave
The next site is St Michael’s Cave. Which sees thousands of visitors a year wandering through its huge caverns with just a few steps and easy access. This amazing, natural phenomenon created by rainwater slowly seeping through the limestone rock, turning into a weak carbonic acid which gradually dissolved the rock millions of years ago.
In 2021 St Michael’s Cave introduced a new lighting upgrade for the very best experience of the cave’s natural beauty, called The Awakening. Enjoy St Michael’s cave like never before!
An immersive light and sound installation expressing layer upon layer of history fused with the rock. The ancient cavern lays dormant. The Awakening illuminates’ sculptures older than time and reawakens their hidden story.
Of over the 150 caves that have been discovered in the Rock of Gibraltar this is the most visited with over one million visitors per year. The cave is situated at over 300 metres above sea level.
In 1942 during the second world war blasting was in process inside this cave in order to allow for more ventilation. The cave was to be used as an emergency hospital. During the blasting, a discovery was made of a deeper system of caves which is now known as Lower St. Michael’s Cave.
The Awakening
In 2021 St Michael’s Cave introduced a new lighting upgrade for the very best experience of the cave’s natural beauty, called The Awakening. Enjoy St Michael’s cave like never before!
An immersive light and sound installation expressing layer upon layer of history fused with the rock. The ancient cavern lays dormant. The Awakening illuminates’ sculptures older than time and reawakens their hidden story…
Book your day trip to Gibraltar
Top of the Rock Skywalk Glass Viewing Platform & Monkeys
Next, we will go to the top of the Rock, and there we will do 2 things: The glass viewing platform called The Skywalk, and visit the monkeys.
The Skywalk is a former military lookout transformed into a state-of-the-art glass platform and walkway giving spectacular views across the Mediterranean. An unbroken 360º panoramic viewpoint. Enter the 360º environment and get a feel for the freedom and exhilaration you will experience at The Skywalk.
From the Skywalk, several minutes’ walk and we will spend some time with our famous Monkeys at Upper Apes Den (The same height level as the cable) The Barbary Macaque Apes are the only ones to be found within the continent of Europe. They reside at the upper rock nature reserve of Gibraltar.
At present there are over 200 apes in 6 packs that roam through the upper rock. Legend has it that in 1942 the population of apes fell to just 7 and the Prime Minister of Great Britain (Sir Winston Churchill) ordered that the population of the apes be immediately replenished because as long as there are Barbary Macaques Apes on the Rock of Gibraltar it will remain under British rule.
The Great Siege Tunnels
From the top of the rock, we will drive to the north side of the Rock to visit the Great Siege Tunnels, something not to be missed. This site explains a lot of the history of Gibraltar under siege. The tunnels were carved out of the rock by hand during the Great Siege which took place between 1779-1783. This was done in order to defend Gibraltar against the Spanish and French forces who were trying to recapture Gibraltar from the British.
Whilst tunnelling it was decided that a horizontal hole be blasted in the rock face in order to improve ventilation for the workmen. On closer examination it was realised that a gun could be put in place to bear down on attacking forces.
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Moorish Castle and Old Town of Gibraltar
On the drive down from the Upper rock Nature Reserve we will see the outside of the Moorish Castle, you will be able to see the history and battle scars due to cannon ball shots against the castle between the wars of the Moors and the Spanish. The Moorish Castle is a medieval fortification in Gibraltar which is made up of a number of buildings.
The Moorish Castle stands proudly on the Eastern elevation of the Rock, a proud symbol of the long and colorful history of the Rock of Gibraltar originally built in the 1160CE. It was ransacked by the Spanish between 1309 – 1333. This ‘Tower of Homage’ was rebuilt in the 14th century by Abu-l-Hasan. You’ll be able to look closely to see the cannon dents in the castle walls.
As we exit the nature reserve park we will drive through the old town of Gibraltar.
Finalizing the Tour wherever you wish in Gibraltar, if interested in visiting the rest of the town and Main Street, we can supply you with a map and a guideline of what to visit in the pedestrianized areas of town and the best way to get back to your destination.
Book your day trip to Gibraltar
Gibraltar border control
Folks often ask us concerning Gibraltar border control, mainly after Brexit. Fortunately, Skift has reported that Gibraltar is discussing to join Schengen so travelers from these countries don’t need to present their passport or ID when entering Gibraltar.
Nevertheless, until talks are resolved, you can anticipate long lines to go into and leave Gibraltar from La Linea.
It is suggested that one does not go to Gibraltar before the morning rush hour has passed in order to avoid having to queue with the approximately 1600 Spanish workers who are crossing the boundary each day (which would make the wait even longer for those who need to go to work).
The Gibraltar border has a video feed of the line up at the crossing which can be seen here. In addition, they tweet images of the queue waiting to enter (@gibraltarborder) on a regular basis.
At Costa Excursions we make things easier for our customers. We park our van just outside the border, we cross the border walking, at then meet our guide just at the other side of the border where the tour will start.
Needed documents for crossing the land border between Spain and Gibraltar
If you are a resident of the EU, Schengen or the UK, you must present your EU identification card or passport in order to croos the border between La Linea and Gibraltar.
Certain citizens require a visa for admittance into Gibraltar, however if you have a Schengen visa, that could be valid as well. You can easily ascertain whether a visa is required and what the specific entry regulations would be for your nationality by typing in your passport information HERE.
What are some practical tips for planning a day trip to Gibraltar?
Planning a day trip to Gibraltar can be both exciting and overwhelming, considering the variety of attractions and activities that the region has to offer. To ensure that your trip is smooth and enjoyable, here are some practical tips to keep in mind:
- Start Early: Gibraltar might be small, but it’s bursting with attractions. Starting your trip early gives you the luxury of time to explore, enjoy, and soak in the essence of this unique place without feeling rushed.
- Comfortable Footwear: Gibraltar is best explored on foot. With its steep lanes, winding roads, and numerous walking trails, comfortable footwear is a must to enjoy your day without discomfort.
- Carry a Light Jacket: Even in the summer, the weather in Gibraltar can be unpredictable with the potential for a sudden drop in temperature, particularly in the evening. Carrying a light jacket would be a wise decision.
- Prepare for Monkey Encounters: Gibraltar is famously home to the only population of wild monkeys in Europe, the Barbary macaques. While they’re a delight to observe, remember not to feed or touch them, as they can be aggressive if they feel threatened.
- Respect the Border Controls: Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory and has its own border control. Make sure to carry all the necessary documentation and respect the customs and regulations.
- Consider a Guided Tour: If you want to make the most out of your visit, consider joining a guided tour. They can provide valuable insights about the history and significance of the landmarks that you might not get otherwise.
- Plan for Dining: Gibraltar offers a range of dining options, from traditional Gibraltarian dishes to international cuisine. Make sure to plan your meals in advance, keeping in mind the opening hours of the restaurants.
By keeping these practical tips in mind, you can ensure that your day trip to Gibraltar from Malaga or Marbella is a memorable one, filled with adventure, learning, and fun!
How long does it take to travel from Malaga or Marbella to Gibraltar?
If you’re planning your itinerary for a day trip from Malaga or Marbella to Gibraltar, it’s crucial to know the journey’s duration. The travel time can vary depending on your chosen mode of transportation.
By car: If you prefer driving, the journey from Malaga to Gibraltar takes approximately two hours, while the trip from Marbella to Gibraltar can take about an hour, assuming traffic conditions are favorable.
By Bus: Alternatively, if you prefer public transportation, there are regular bus services from both Malaga and Marbella to La Linea, the Spanish town bordering Gibraltar. The journey from Malaga to La Linea can take up to three hours, and from Marbella, the journey takes approximately one and a half hours. From La Linea’s bus station, it’s just a short 15-minute walk to the Gibraltar border.
By Private Tour: Many companies offer private tours from Malaga or Marbella to Gibraltar, which include transportation and guided visits to Gibraltar’s main attractions. The travel time usually aligns with the aforementioned durations, but the convenient aspect of these tours is that they often handle logistics such as border crossings and parking, allowing you to focus solely on enjoying your trip.
Remember, these times are estimates and actual travel times may vary depending on factors like traffic conditions and border crossing times. Therefore, it’s always wise to allow extra time to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Weather in Gibraltar
Finally, it’s important to consider the weather in Gibraltar when planning your day trip from Malaga or Marbella. This British Overseas Territory, nestled at the southernmost tip of the Iberian Peninsula, enjoys a subtropical Mediterranean climate. This means you can expect warm summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination.
However, it’s worth noting that each season brings its own unique charm to Gibraltar. The summer months of June to August are the warmest, with average temperatures hovering around 28°C (82°F). This is an excellent time for sightseeing and participating in outdoor activities. Be sure to pack your sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses, as the sun can be quite strong during this period.
The shoulder seasons of spring (March May to) and fall (September to November) offer more comfortable temperatures, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Furthermore, these periods are less crowded, allowing you to explore the attractions at a leisurely pace. If you’re a nature enthusiast, spring is a particularly beautiful time to visit, as the Rock of Gibraltar is adorned with a vibrant display of wildflowers.
Winter, from December to February, sees cooler temperatures, with averages between 10°C and 16°C (50°F to 61°F). While this might not be the best time for sunbathing and water activities, it’s a great period to enjoy Gibraltar’s historical sites, museums, and indoor attractions without the sweltering heat.
Regardless of the season, it’s advisable to carry a light jacket or sweater, as Gibraltar is known for the famous ‘Levanter’ wind, which can make the weather feel cooler, particularly in the shadow of the Rock. Also, don’t forget your comfortable walking shoes, as there is plenty to explore on foot in this compact yet intriguing territory.
Remember, as with any travel plan, check the weather forecast closer to your travel date and pack accordingly for a comfortable and enjoyable day trip to Gibraltar.
Are there any visa requirements or border crossing procedures for visiting Gibraltar from Malaga or Marbella?
Gibraltar border control
When planning your day trip to Gibraltar from Malaga or Marbella, it is essential to be aware of the border control protocols. The land border between Spain and Gibraltar is tightly controlled, with passport checks both when entering and leaving Gibraltar. Despite being a British Overseas Territory, Gibraltar is not part of the UK, and the border control is operated by Gibraltar’s authorities rather than British ones. You should be prepared for potential queues, especially during peak times.
Needed documents for crossing the land border between Spain and Gibraltar
When crossing the land border into Gibraltar, you’ll need to present a valid passport. European Union nationals can also use a national identity card. However, keep in mind that the UK (and by extension, Gibraltar) does not recognize the European ID card as a valid travel document for non-EU/EEA nationals. So, if you’re not an EU citizen, a passport is necessary.
Depending on your nationality, you might also require a visa to enter Gibraltar. Non-visa nationals who can visit the UK for up to 6 months without a visa, are also allowed to enter Gibraltar without a visa. EU nationals, Commonwealth citizens, US citizens, Canadians, Australians, and New Zealanders fall under this category. Nonetheless, it’s recommended to check with your local embassy or official government website for the most updated information.
