Background

Gibraltar Rock: A Fortress of History and Nature

Explore the iconic Rock of Gibraltar: History, stunning views, and the famous Barbary macaques await at this Mediterranean landmark.

4.7

The Rock of Gibraltar, a towering limestone promontory, is a symbol of strength and a treasure trove of history and natural beauty. Explore its fascinating network of tunnels, encounter the famous Barbary macaques, and enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean, Spain, and Africa.

A brief summary to Gibraltar Rock

  • Gibraltar,GX11 1AA, Gibraltar, GX11 1AA, GI

Local tips

  • Purchase a Nature Reserve ticket to access most attractions, including St. Michael's Cave, the Great Siege Tunnels and the Skywalk.
  • Arrive early or later in the afternoon to avoid long queues for the cable car.
  • Be aware of the Barbary macaques; they are wild animals and may try to grab food or belongings.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking and hiking, as exploring the Rock involves steep inclines and uneven surfaces.
  • Check the opening hours for the Nature Reserve and specific attractions, as they vary depending on the season.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Casemates Square, walk south along Main Street. Turn left onto Grand Parade and continue towards the Cable Car station at the foot of the Rock. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Note that reaching the Upper Rock on foot involves a steep climb and requires a Nature Reserve ticket (£30 for adults, £22 for children). Consider entering via the Moorish Castle or Jews' Gate.

  • Public Transport

    Take bus routes 2, 3, 4, 9, or 10 to the Cable Car station from various points in Gibraltar. A Hopper Bus Ticket offers unlimited travel on local bus routes. From the frontier, the bus to the base of the Rock of Gibraltar is a 3 minute walk on Winston Churchill Avenue and costs around £6 for a round trip. From the bus stop, it is a short walk to the Cable Car.

  • Cable Car

    Purchase a cable car ticket at the base station on Grand Parade. A round trip including the Nature Reserve costs £49 for adults and £31 for children (ages 4-11). The cable car ascends to the Top Station in approximately 6 minutes. From the top station, you can access various attractions within the Upper Rock Nature Reserve.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available at the frontier, the airport, and the cruise terminal. A taxi tour to the top of the Rock typically lasts around 2 hours and includes entry to the Nature Reserve attractions. Prices vary depending on the number of passengers, but expect to pay around £360 for a private tour for up to 6 people, including Nature Reserve tickets. A taxi from the Gibraltar Passport Control Station to the Rock of Gibraltar is approximately 3 EUR.

Unlock the Best of Gibraltar Rock

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Gibraltar Rock

The Rock of Gibraltar, also known as the Pillar of Hercules, is a monolithic Jurassic limestone promontory that dominates the landscape. Formed over millions of years by tectonic activity and shaped by the sea, this iconic rock boasts a rich history and diverse ecosystem. From ancient times, the Rock held strategic and symbolic importance. The Romans called it 'Mons Calpe', and it marked the westernmost limit of the known world. In 711 AD, the Moors landed here, beginning their conquest of Iberia and giving the Rock its current name, derived from 'Jebel Tarik' (Tarik's Mountain). For over 700 years, the Moors fortified and occupied Gibraltar, leaving behind remnants like the Moorish Castle. Over the centuries, control of Gibraltar shifted between Spanish and British hands, becoming a British territory in the 18th century. Its strategic location made it a vital naval base, especially during World War II, when extensive tunnels were constructed within the Rock. Today, visitors can explore these tunnels and learn about Gibraltar's military past. The Rock is also a nature reserve, home to around 300 Barbary macaques, Europe's only wild monkey population. These playful creatures roam freely, adding to the Rock's unique appeal. The Upper Rock Nature Reserve offers stunning views, diverse flora, and numerous trails for hiking and exploration. Key attractions include St. Michael's Cave, a vast cave adorned with stalactites and stalagmites; the Skywalk, a glass-bottomed viewing platform; and the Windsor Suspension Bridge.

Popular Experiences near Gibraltar Rock

Popular Hotels near Gibraltar Rock

Select Currency