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Europe is a continent with so many amazing destinations, each offering something different from the last. While more and more countries are being hailed as Europe’s newest underrated hotspot, the truth is that there are still places that tend to fly under the radar.
One such place is located on the southernmost tip of the Iberian Peninsula, is unique in many ways and offers visitors unique experiences.
Welcome to Gibraltar, possibly one of Europe’s best kept secrets.
As a British Overseas Territory in a southern Spanish climate, Gibraltar is a unique combination of British influence in the Spanish sun. There are so many beaches to enjoy, unique things to do, warm weather and some epic views.
Gibraltar may not be on many travellers’ radar, but its unique charm and beautiful location make it a can’t-miss destination for anyone looking for something different from the usual European seaside resort.
This is why Gibraltar is one of Europe’s best kept secrets:
Endless activities
Flying to Gibraltar is an experience in itself, as only a few airlines operate this flight and the pilots must have experience with the unique landing. Flying in right next to the imposing Rock of Gibraltar and landing on a skyway that crosses the highway is quite an experience, just like walking into the city on the same highway after landing.
Taking the cable car up the rock is a top activity, and of course hanging out with all the Barbery monkeys for a few photos; After all, this is the only place in Europe where free-roaming monkeys can be found. Once you’re done at the top of the rock, check out the many interesting tunnels left over from the 18th century Siege.
Don’t miss a visit to Europa Point, the southernmost point of Gibraltar. As the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean collide before you, on a clear day you can gaze across the strait to Africa. Sights include the Trinity Lighthouse, an Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque, the Sikorski Memorial and Harding’s Battery.
@london.edition Top things to do in Gibraltar 🇬🇮 1. Book a dolphin excursion with pick-up and drop-off from Ocean Village 🐬 tickets can be found on websites such as Trip Advisor. 2. Take a cable car to The Top Of The Rock 🪨🚠 where you can see the monkeys 🐒 and absorb spectacular views 🔎 3. Visit St Michael’s Cave and make sure to watch the light show that happens every 20 minutes ✨ 4. Walk on the glass panels of Skywalk and enjoy breathtaking 360 degree views 🏔️ 5. Visit the Great Siege tunnels dug from solid limestone by the British during the Great Siege of Gibraltar in the late 18th century 6. Stay in Ocean Village (we’d recommend the Sunborn Hotel), which is just a 9-minute walk from the airport and offers more than 20 lively oceanfront restaurants and bars 🍹 #fyp #foryoupage #trip #Gibraltar #things to do ♬ Locked up / Return Of The Mack – Post Malone & Mark Morrison & Sickick
Unique beaches
Those who come to Gibraltar looking for a beach holiday are in luck. Many head to Catalan Bay, tucked into the east side of the Rock, or to Eastern Beach, Gibraltar’s largest beach, which borders the airstrip.
You can also go to Western Beach, which is a surprise, on the west side of the Rock, sandwiched between the airport runway and the Spanish border.
There is also Sandy Bay, Gibraltar’s southernmost beach, which offers plenty of space to relax on the soft orange sand imported from the Sahara.
@rediscovery_emily Visit the Catalan Bay in Gibraltar 🇬🇮 The colorful Catalan Bay is waiting to be discovered on the east side of the Rock of Gibraltar. With crystal clear waters, a sandy beach and a maze of vibrant buildings, Catalan Bay is a unique and charming destination. Top tips: • Take bus number 4 or 8 to get here. • Get here early if you plan to come during the summer season so you can get a good spot on the beach. • If you plan to eat here, reserve a table in advance at one of the restaurants upon arrival. 📍 Hit Save and include Catalan Bay as part of your trip to Gibraltar. #gibraltartiktok #visitgibraltar #expatadventures #solotravelwoman #reisstiktoker ♬ Tropical summer – FASSounds
Shopping, eating and drinking
Thanks in part to its unique mix of cultures, Gibraltar has quite an impressive food culture.
Classic British pubs are located in the city’s many squares, offering a pint and some fish and chips while you watch the football, or head to the endless tap restaurants to get your Spanish tipple. Pizza parlors, French bistros, American sports bars, African-influenced restaurants and everything else are also in abundance here.
For those here to shop, Gibraltar is a duty-free British colony and therefore goods are cheaper here than in other places in Europe. There are many shops along the streets, from private label stores to unique places for special gifts.
Location, location, location
Gibraltar is in a very unique location which is why it is such a cultural melting pot today. Located on a narrow peninsula on Spain’s southern Mediterranean coast, getting here is part of the fun.
As mentioned, the airport itself is unique, but those coming from mainland Spain can easily cross the border at La Línea. Arrival from Portugal is possible by train and bus, with connections to Seville.
Its proximity to the northern tip of Africa means you can reach Tangier by ferry, but those heading to Morocco can also take a short and easy ferry ride. The views from the top of the Rock of Gibraltar allow you to see all these countries from one vantage point.
@cutste10 Yes, you can see Africa from Gibraltar 🫶 #fyp #amazing landscape #Africa #Morocco #Spain #uk #trip ♬ In The Forest (Acoustic Indie No copyright) – Instrumental – Lesfm & Olexy
Quirky charm
Some may call Gibraltar “the weirdest place they’ve ever been,” and while they’re not wrong, more often than not the title is meant in an affectionate way. Some call it quirky, some call it underrated, but whatever travelers call it, it’s clear this is a unique place.
Gibraltar will leave an impression on everyone who visits, and those looking for a little piece of Britain in the sun will find it, and those looking for a multicultural city in a beautiful location will have that box ticked too find.
@jackscar123 Brutal few days in Gibraltar (the strangest place I’ve ever visited) #Gibraltar #Spain #holidays #holidays #monkey #foreign ♬ Everywhere – Rita Ora
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
