Gibraltar Cruise Port Guide: Monkeys and Gardens

Sailing into Gibraltar cruise port instantly reveals the towering Rock and the blend of British and Mediterranean influences. Gibraltar (Native – Pronounced [hih-brahl-tar]) has long been a strategic stronghold and today offers visitors dramatic cliffs, a compact city, and wild monkeys at the top.

Although only a few square miles in size, Gibraltar feels surprisingly diverse. Its history stretches from Moorish rule to British naval battles and its location at the entrance to the Mediterranean has made it a crossroads for centuries.

On my two summer visits by cruise, I was able to experience both the famous Rock and the quieter corners of the city. Each trip had its own highlights and surprises, making Gibraltar more than just a quick stop on an itinerary.

During my first visit in August 2024, I traveled with friends and arranged private transport directly to the gondola terminal. Even arriving early, the wait for the ride up was about an hour, but the sweeping views from the top were worth every minute. From the summit you can see Spain and the Strait stretching toward Africa, a breathtaking panorama that never gets old.

The Barbary macaques at the top are equally famous. We watched several people lose snacks and sunglasses to these quick little thieves. I kept my own bag zipped tight while enjoying the spectacle and the unique chance to see these monkeys up close. After descending, we walked through town back to the port and stopped at a pub for refreshments, soaking in Gibraltar’s mix of British pubs and Mediterranean sunshine.

My second visit in July 2025 was quieter and more self-guided. I started at Trafalgar Cemetery, reading the old tombstones shaded by trees, before making my way to the Alameda Botanical Gardens. The gardens are free to enter and filled with lush greenery, cactus beds, and winding paths. There’s also a small zoo inside the gardens, but I opted to skip the admission and just enjoy the scenery. Feeling adventurous, I attempted to reach the Moorish Castle on foot but ended up at a dead-end neighborhood below the fortress. Hot, tired, and amused by my poor navigation, I headed back down with a new appreciation for how winding Gibraltar’s hills can be.