Gibraltar: Day Trips and Tours from Málaga

The British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar is situated on the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula. This 6.7 square kilometer area of land borders Spain and its scenery is dominated by the iconic Rock of Gibraltar.

A day trip to Gibraltar from Málaga, is not only about setting foot in the small territory itself, but also about experiencing the merging of cultures and influences. Just a short drive away from Malaga, Gibraltar can easily be visited in a day.

Whether your interest is in the landmark Rock, the interesting wildlife or the shopping experience available in the town itself, an excursion to Gibraltar is well worth the time.

Here's all you need to know about Gibraltar, one of the most exciting day trips from Málaga.

How to get to Gibraltar from Málaga?

Gibraltar is a British Overseas territory located to the south west of Málaga.

From Malaga to Gibraltar by road

A road trip to Gibraltar from Málaga takes roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes via the AP-7. This 137 kilometer drive takes you along the Costa del Sol and past cities such as Marbella. Although it is possible to self-drive, it is not recommended as traveling and parking in Gibraltar itself can be problematic.

From Malaga to Gibraltar by bus

If you opt not to join a guided tour, then a bus trip is the next best transport alternative. Buses leave from Málaga throughout the day, with the journey taking around 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Guided tour to Gibraltar from Malaga

To avoid the traffic and the hassle that comes with parking in Gibraltar, a guided tour is recommended. Guided tours typically leave from Málaga hotels or central meeting points and travel directly to Gibraltar, where the day is spent as per your chosen itinerary.

Experienced drivers and knowledgeable guides ensure you are comfortable, informed and enlightened and after a half or full day of sightseeing, you will return to Málaga.

What is the typical itinerary?

Typically, a tour will begin with a collection from your hotel or the designated meeting point. You will travel along the Costa del Sol, towards Gibraltar and will be rewarded with splendid views of the coastline.

Once in Gibraltar, tour itineraries vary and depending on our chosen tour, you can expect to either spend your time primarily focusing on the natural aspects of the destination, or making the most of the shopping opportunities available.

Once your time in Gibraltar is up, you will return to Málaga along the same route as your morning journey.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Gibraltar?

There are a variety of different types of tours available to visit Gibraltar. Some tours include specific activities, and others may also stop at other locations along the route.

Guided half day tours to Gibraltar from Málaga

A half day tour with your own private guide is ideal if you only have limited time for a visit to Gibraltar. Half day tours typically include round trip transport from your Málaga hotel, a guided tour of  the nature reserve and other significant attractions including the Moorish Fortress.

These 4-hour tours include entrance fees, but do not include any food or drinks.

Guided full day tours to Gibraltar from Málaga

Full day guided tours are usually designed to allow time for a guided tour of the nature reserve and other natural attractions in Gibraltar, coupled with independent leisure and shopping time in town.

During your guided tour, you can expect to see sites like Europa Point and Saint Michael’s Cave and on a clear day, you may be able to spot the African shores. In town, you can browse the many shops and take advantage of the duty free purchases available.

Time for lunch is included in the planning, but the cost for your meal will be additional to the tour price.

Private full days tours to Gibraltar from Málaga

Private tours have the benefit of being somewhat flexible in terms of itinerary and timing. On a private tour to Gibraltar, you can apportion your time as you see fit and decide on the focus of the day.

If you would like to spend your time searching for great deals in the many stores, you can do so. Otherwise, you can make the most of the Mediterranean climate and spend the day exploring the nature reserve and observing the animated Barbary apes found in the region.

Private tours include roundtrip hotel transfers and the services of your own transport and guide. You will, however, need to cover the costs of any meals or refreshments during the course of the day.

Gibraltar tour plus dolphin watching from Málaga

Combine a sightseeing visit to Gibraltar with a cruise out to sea to spot the dolphins that inhabit the surrounding waters.

This type of tour usually starts with a morning sightseeing tour of Gibraltar, followed by a boat trip in the Strait where you search for dolphins and other marine animals while learning more about the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve status of the Strait.

The boat ride is included in the cost of this tour, but other entrance fees are not. Drinks and meals will also be for your own account.

How much does a day trip to Gibraltar from Malaga cost?

Guided private half day tours to Gibraltar from Málaga cost from €175 per adult and €75 per child. Tour price is dependent on the number of participants and a minimum number of guests.

Guided full day tours to Gibraltar from Málaga start from around €40 per person for tours that are only shopping focused. Sightseeing tours or tours that combine sightseeing and shopping cost in the region of €90 per person.

Private full day tours to Gibraltar from Málaga cost approximately €1,600 per group of up to 15 people.

A Gibraltar tour plus dolphin watching from Málaga costs from €90 per adult and €75 per child aged 3 to 11 years old.

What will you see and do?

Although Gibraltar may only occupy a small piece of land, there is definitely not a shortage of things to do.

Gibraltar tours usually have two focuses, the natural environment and shopping, each having their own appeal.

The Rock of Gibraltar is the most well-known natural attraction in Gibraltar. This limestone monolith stands 426 meters high and is a dedicated nature reserve. The reserve is home to roughly 300 Barbary macaques and contains a network of tunnels and caves.

Evidence of Moorish settlement is present in the form of a Moorish castle which was built in the 1st century by the Berber chieftain who first landed here.

Gibraltar is also a shopper’s paradise with its vast number of duty free shops that can be explored. Global fashion brands, crafts and electronics can be purchased, along with other duty-free item. British style pubs and restaurants provide a jovial atmosphere and are a great spot to relax between shopping and sightseeing.

When is the best time to visit Gibraltar?

The best time to visit the Yorkshire Dales is during the weekdays, particularly in early mornings or late afternoons, when visits provide a peaceful atmosphere and stunning landscapes while avoiding the weekend tourist rush.

The ideal months are in the spring, from April to Jun, and  in the autumn, from September to November.

Are there any tours to Gibraltar from other cities in Spain?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in Spain:

• Day Trips to o Gibraltar from Marbella
• Day Trips to o Gibraltar from Cádiz
• Day Trips to o Gibraltar from Huelva
• Day Trips to o Gibraltar from Jerez
• Day Trips to o Gibraltar from Sevilla

Travel tips

• Plan your itinerary to make the most of Gibraltar's many attractions.your visit. Be mindful of the time you have on the tour.
• Ensure you have your passport and any necessary documentation for border crossing to Gibraltar. Check visa requirements if applicable.
• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for exploring, Gibraltar involves walking, so  consider the terrain and opt for comfortable, sturdy footwear.
• Check the weather forecast for Gibraltar on the day of your tour and dress accordingly. Bring sunscreen, hats, or umbrellas depending on the weather.