Early planning stages, and am trying to determine how long to allow for a trip to Gibralter. We would park and walk across the border, and would probably be coming from Arcos. We would want enough time to stroll about, take the tram up the hill, possibly visit the caves, have lunch at some point and walk back to car. In order to not feel rushed , could someone advise how much time to alot to this (tentative) plan?
Posted by
Port Coquitlam, BC, Canada
629 posts
We stopped there on the way from Granada to Tarifa. Did a very similiar excursion to what you have planned: we parked in Spain, crossed the border and air strip, wandered through town to aerial tram (a must do), spent a couple of hours up top enjoying views and taking photos, took the tram down and wandered back through town to border crossing. We did the entire trip on foot - no taxis, buses or tours and spent about 4 to 5 hours there in total. Hope this helps.
Posted by
S.F. Bay Area, CA, United States
1878 posts
I would give it 6-8 hours. The distances are somewhat long, and you may decide you want the time to linger. We were there in 1999 as a stop on our honeymoon cruise, and also day tripped there from Ronda on our Spain trip in 2005. Our second time, we did not get there until 2pm and regretted arriving so late. Gibraltar is very unique, and some might call it touristy -- but I think it's worthy day trip.
Posted by
OP
Victoria, BC, Canada
372 posts
Thanks so much for the info. It's wonderful to have this resource when planning a trip"
Posted by
S.F. Bay Area, CA, United States
1878 posts
One more thing -- the Barbary Apes are a major highlight of a visit to Gibraltar. When we were there last, we watched one steal a bag that a tourist had just brought out of a souvenir shop on the top of the rock. Eventually they got it back, but it was pretty funny watching the monkey run off with it. I would have been freaking out, but the tourists seemed to be enjoying it even more than the ape, beause they were laughing the whole time. I am surprised the ape did not hold out his hand for a tip afterward, it was so funny. I would not recommend getting too close to them (the apes I mean) but they can be very entertaining.