Gibraltar
Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory, is a unique and fascinating destination on the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula. It is famous for the Rock of Gibraltar, a limestone monolith that dominates the landscape, and its unique blend of British and Mediterranean cultures. For a cruiser, Gibraltar is a perfect destination for those who want to experience a slice of Britain in the Mediterranean, with its historic pubs, red phone booths, and a vibrant local culture.
⛵ Port Introduction
Your cruise ship will dock directly at the Gibraltar Cruise Terminal, which is a modern, purpose-built facility. The port is a short, 15-20 minute walk from the city center. The walk is on a flat surface and offers a beautiful view of the harbor and the Rock of Gibraltar. You can walk right off the ship and begin exploring immediately.
⚓ Terminal Information
The Gibraltar Cruise Terminal is a modern, air-conditioned facility. You will walk a short distance from the ship to the terminal building, and from there you are a short walk from the city's main attractions. The terminal is clean, comfortable, and well-equipped for your needs.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
The terminal has restrooms, a tourist information desk with friendly staff who can provide maps and directions, and a few small shops selling souvenirs and snacks. Tour pickups and a taxi stand are located just outside the terminal. Public Wi-Fi is available in the terminal building, but it may be slow on a busy day.
🗣️ Language
The official language is English. While you'll hear a local dialect called "Llanito," which is a mix of Spanish and English, you will have no problem navigating or communicating.
💰 Money
The currency is the Gibraltar Pound (GIP), which is pegged to the British Pound Sterling (GBP) at a 1-to-1 ratio. Both currencies are legal tender in Gibraltar, but be aware that the Gibraltar Pound is not accepted in the UK. Credit cards are widely accepted everywhere, and ATMs are easy to find at the port and throughout the city.
🚗 Transportation
Gibraltar is a very walkable city, but to get to the top of the Rock, you will need transportation.
Walking: The best way to explore the city is on foot. The Main Street, with its unique shops and historic buildings, is all within easy walking distance of the cruise terminal.
Cable Car: The Gibraltar Cable Car is the most popular way to get to the top of the Rock. The cable car station is a short walk from the main city center. The ride is a short 6-minute journey, and it offers a stunning panoramic view of the Rock and the surrounding area.
Taxis: Taxis are available at the cruise terminal. The taxis are mostly vans that can accommodate up to 8 passengers, and many of them offer a tour of the Rock.
Public Bus: Gibraltar has an excellent public bus system that can take you to all the main attractions. The bus stop is located just outside the cruise terminal, and the fare is very affordable.
♿ Accessibility
Gibraltar has an accessibility rating of 3 out of 10. While the cruise terminal is modern and accessible, the city's streets, with their steep hills and uneven surfaces, can be a challenge. The Cable Car is wheelchair accessible, but some of the sites on top of the Rock have stairs and uneven terrain that can be difficult to navigate.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
The best way to get to town from the cruise port is to simply walk. The port is located very close to the city center, and you can easily walk to all the main attractions.
🚽 Toilet
Public toilets are available in Gibraltar, but they are not very common. Your best bet is to use the restrooms in the cruise terminals, or in cafes and restaurants. Be aware that some places may charge a small fee.
💊 Drugstore
Boots Pharmacy: 21 Main St, Gibraltar GX11 1AA.
Bland's Pharmacy: 29 Main St, Gibraltar GX11 1AA.
✨ Authentic Experience
Walk the Main Street and See the British Sights: For a taste of the city's unique British heritage, take a walk along Main Street. You can see the red phone booths, the pubs, and the traditional British shops. It's a great way to get a feel for the local atmosphere and to see a slice of Britain in the Mediterranean.
Take a Taxi Tour of the Rock and See the Apes: For a truly unique experience, take a taxi tour of the Rock of Gibraltar. The taxis are mostly vans that can accommodate a group, and the drivers are a wealth of knowledge about the history of the Rock. You'll get to see the famous macaques, the only wild monkeys in Europe, and learn about the tunnels and fortifications of the Rock.
Dine on Local Fish and Chips at a Local Pub: For a classic British meal, find a local pub and order a plate of fish and chips. It's a delicious and authentic taste of the local culinary scene.
