Day trip to Gibraltar – everything you need to know

Looking for the perfect day trip to Gibraltar? Whether you’re visiting with kids or exploring solo, Gibraltar is a fascinating and unique place to visit. With its mix of British culture, dramatic rock landscapes, Mediterranean heat and playful wildlife, it offers a travel experience like nowhere else in Europe. We visited Gibraltar on board P&O’s Azura Mediterranean cruise – and were lucky enough to be greeted by hundreds of dolphins as we arrived. It was one of the most magical wildlife moments we’ve ever experienced.

Here’s what we did during our one day in Gibraltar, plus even more ideas for your own day trip, including history, nature, food, and fun for all ages. We also give you key information if you’re looking to visit from Benalmadena to Gibraltar or take a day trip Gibraltar from Malaga.

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👩‍💻 About the author – Nichola is a family travel expert and has written for The Guardian, The Telegraph, Lonely Planet Magazine and Wanderlust, amongst many others. She’s spent over a decade travelling the world with her children, finding the best places for you to explore too.

*AD / This post contains affiliate links & as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also have been compensated in this post either financially or with products / stays. To read more see our Disclosure Policy.

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Our day trip to Gibraltar – everything we did

Dolphins in the bay

Our adventure began even before we docked. As we approached Gibraltar, dolphins surrounded the ship – dancing and diving gracefully in the water, their white stripes flashing as they played alongside us. This stretch of sea is a hotspot for dolphin sightings and an unforgettable way to arrive in port.

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Arrival into Gibraltar

Gibraltar greeted us with its legendary Levanter cloud – a strange, misty veil that hugs the Rock and gives it an otherworldly feel. Fortunately, the mist lifted shortly after we docked, revealing blue skies and sunshine.

One of the first things you’ll notice is how British everything looks – red telephone boxes, high street shops with pound signs, and Union Jacks fluttering above warm Mediterranean streets.

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Exploring Europa Point

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We began our day trip by heading to Europa Point, the southernmost tip of Gibraltar. The bright red-and-white lighthouse stands tall at the edge of the cliffs, and from here you can gaze across the Straits to the distant mountains of Morocco – so close, yet another continent entirely.

If your children haven’t visited Africa yet, this is a great way to help them visualise geography and spark some curiosity.

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Gibraltar’s colourful town and beaches

I don’t know what I expected from Gibraltar. Somewhere a little barren, dry and just, well, rocky I guess.

But it wasn’t at all like this. Colourful houses lined secluded beaches with inflatables secured slightly out to sea for children to play on.

There were playgrounds and little stalls selling ice creams and Moroccan treats in the centre. And character and community everywhere. 

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Gibraltar siege tunnels

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Next, we visited the Gibraltar siege tunnels – a network of military tunnels dug into the Rock across centuries. Starting in the late 1700s during the Great Siege and continuing through WWII, these tunnels were carved by hand and later reinforced to shelter entire garrisons.

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The World War II tunnels are especially eerie. You can still see military beds, equipment and planning rooms left in place, giving you a glimpse of what life underground must have been like.

It’s a must-do on a day trip, particularly for older kids who love adventure and history.

Book skip-the-line city pass tickets to explore Gibraltar’s tunnels here.

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St Michael’s Caves

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Another unforgettable underground experience is the St Michael’s Caves – a vast limestone cavern filled with stalactites, stalagmites and fantastical rock formations. Some say the caves connect all the way to Africa, although scientists have since disproved this.

The caves now also feature a light and sound show, which adds a magical layer for kids and adults alike.

Book skip-the-line city pass tickets to explore St Michael’s Caves here.

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Meeting the Barbary macaques

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Of course, no trip to Gibraltar is complete without meeting the famous Barbary macaques, the only wild monkeys in Europe. We travelled to the top of the Rock to visit them and weren’t disappointed.

There were apes everywhere. Carrying babies on their backs, gazing lazily down at us from trees and even trying to steal our camera.

It was fascinating to watch them, so clearly at ease with the busloads of tourists who visit daily. 

We stopped at The Apes’ Den where the monkeys jumped on our minibus and stared through the window.

“I can’t believe it, we’ve seen dolphins and monkeys today” my eight-year-old son excitedly exclaimed.

Gibraltar most definitely doesn’t disappoint.

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More day trip to Gibraltar ideas

If you’re planning your own day trip to Gibraltar, here are more ideas and themed itineraries to help you make the most of your time – whether you’ve arrived by cruise, from Spain, or as part of a longer road trip.

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1. Gibraltar for nature lovers

• Alameda Botanic Gardens: A peaceful oasis near the base of the Rock, filled with native and exotic plants, turtles, birds and shaded walkways. Great for children to explore and learn.
• Dolphin watching boat trips: Book a tour to see Gibraltar’s dolphins up close. Tours last 1–2 hours and often guarantee sightings.
• Mediterranean Steps hike: For fit and adventurous families, this challenging climb up the Rock offers stunning views and lots of wildlife. Best with older children or teens.

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2. Gibraltar for history lovers

• The Moorish Castle: Dating back to the 11th century, this fortress sits high on the Rock and offers panoramic views of the town below.
• The Great Siege Exhibition: Learn more about Gibraltar’s military past with models, weapons and immersive displays.
• WWII Tunnels Tour: A more in-depth guided version of the siege tunnels that takes you deeper into the bunkers and war history.

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3. Food-focused day in Gibraltar

• Casemates Square: A popular spot for al fresco dining with a wide range of restaurants. Enjoy British classics, Spanish tapas or Moroccan tagines.
• Try local dishes: Don’t miss Gibraltar’s own fusion dish – calentita (a chickpea flour flatbread) or Rosto (pasta with tomato and beef sauce).
• Ice cream at Ocean Village: Relax by the marina with gelato or coffee while watching the yachts come and go.

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4. Gibraltar with kids itinerary

• Morning: Start at St Michael’s Cave, then take the cable car up the Rock
• Midday: Meet the Barbary macaques and explore the siege tunnels
• Afternoon: Have lunch at Casemates Square and visit the Botanic Gardens
• Late afternoon: Cool off at the beach or enjoy a walk at Europa Point
• Bonus: Stop for a treat – churros with chocolate are popular here too.

See our top things to do in Gibraltar with kids here

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5. Gibraltar from Spain: border tips

If you’re visiting Gibraltar from nearby towns like Estepona, Marbella, or Tarifa, it’s an easy day trip – but bear in mind:

• Crossing the border can take 15–60 minutes, especially in summer.
• Park in La Línea and walk across for ease (bring your passport).
• The walk from the border to the centre takes about 20 minutes.
• You’ll even walk across the airport runway – a unique experience.

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6. Shopping and souvenirs

• Main Street is lined with duty-free shops and British high-street names
• Great for picking up: perfumes, spirits, watches and unique Gibraltar gifts
• Look for local crafts like hand-painted ceramics or macaque-themed keepsakes

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Take a day trip Gibraltar from Malaga

If you’re staying in Málaga or the Costa del Sol, a day trip to Gibraltar from Málaga is absolutely doable – and well worth the journey. In just over two hours, you can swap Spanish tapas for British pubs, and beaches for monkeys, caves, and military tunnels.

How to get from Málaga to Gibraltar for the day

By car:

• Driving is the quickest and most flexible way to get to Gibraltar. The journey from Málaga to the Gibraltar border at La Línea de la Concepción takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
• You’ll take the AP-7 toll motorway or the scenic coastal N-340.
• Once at the border, it’s easiest to park in La Línea (there are several secure car parks) and walk across the border. This avoids delays at the vehicle checkpoint.
• Don’t forget your passports – Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory.

Bus:

• There are regular direct buses from Málaga to La Línea, operated by Avanza or Comes. The journey takes around 3.5 hours, so this is more suited to early risers or those not keen to drive.
• From the La Línea bus station, it’s just a short walk to the Gibraltar border.

By organised tour:

• Several travel companies offer guided day trips from Málaga to Gibraltar, often including hotel pick-up and stops at key attractions like the Rock of Gibraltar, St Michael’s Cave, and the apes.
• This is a good choice if you want a hassle-free day out, especially if travelling with children.

Find organised tours for day trips from Malaga to Gibraltar

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Day trip to Gibraltar from Benalmádena

A day trip to Gibraltar from Benalmádena is a fantastic way to experience something totally different while staying on the Costa del Sol.

How to get from Benalmádena to Gibraltar

By car:

• The most convenient way to travel is by car. The journey from Benalmádena to the Gibraltar border (La Línea de la Concepción) takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
• Take the AP-7 toll motorway or the free coastal road (A-7) for a more scenic, slightly slower route.
• Most people park in La Línea (right by the border) and walk across on foot, which avoids traffic queues at the checkpoint.

Public transport:

• You can take a train from Benalmádena to Málaga, then a bus from Málaga to La Línea de la Concepción.
• While doable, this takes longer (about 3.5–4 hours each way), so not ideal unless you’re staying overnight.
• If you choose this route, be sure to check return times carefully to avoid missing your last connection back.

By guided tour:

• Several companies run organised day trips to Gibraltar from Benalmádena, with hotel pick-up, transport, and sightseeing included.
• These often cover key sights like the Rock of Gibraltar, the monkeys, Europa Point, and St Michael’s Cave.
• This is a great, stress-free option for families or anyone wanting to maximise their time without worrying about driving or planning.

Tips for the journey

• Bring your passport – border control checks are in place
• Arrive early, especially in summer, as queues can build up at the border
• Wear comfy shoes – Gibraltar is hilly and there’s plenty of walking
• Don’t drive into Gibraltar unless necessary – walking across is faster and easier
• Gibraltar uses pounds sterling, but euros are accepted in some places

Find organised tours for day trips from Benalmádena to Gibraltar

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Is a day trip to Gibraltar worth it?

Absolutely. Whether you’re travelling with children, on a cruise stopover, or crossing the border from Spain, a day in Gibraltar offers an exciting mix of wildlife, history, British quirkiness and Mediterranean charm. There’s nowhere quite like it.

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Plan your day trip to Gibraltar

• Currency: British pound (some shops accept euros, but at a poor rate)
• Language: English is official, but Spanish is widely spoken
• Best time to visit: Spring or autumn for fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures
• Dress code: Comfortable shoes, layered clothing (it can get breezy at the top)
• Getting around: Use taxis, cable car, or explore on foot – it’s very walkable

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More posts from this area –

The best things to do in Gibraltar with kids

Our guide to Spain with kids