Perched at the Iberian Peninsula’s southern tip, Gibraltar is a heady mix of Spanish, Moorish, and British influences. Nicknamed “the Rock” or “Gib,” it’s a tiny British territory of around 33,000 residents. But make no mistake, it’s big on history, culture, and attractions. Dominated by the Rock of Gibraltar, a limestone ridge soaring 426 meters (1,400 feet), Gibraltar sits at the Mediterranean’s western end. It’s also known as Europe’s southernmost point. From lively bars and restaurants and VAT-free shopping to sun-drenched beaches and ancient structures, it’s teeming with attractions. And of course, staying in one of the best hotels in Gibraltar is vital for a memorable experience in this beautiful land.
Where To Stay In Gibraltar
Whether you’re traveling on a budget or seeking to splurge, you’ll find a generous selection of lodging options. And there’s a wide variety to choose from, too! From 5-star hotels and self-catering apartments to cozy guesthouses and luxurious yachts, there’s something for everyone. Staying in one of the hotels in the city center is a popular option. Here, you can shop ’til you drop on Main Street and drink and dine at Casemates Square.
Basking on the beach is one of the top things to do in Gibraltar, and if you stay in the east, you’ll be steps away from the sand and the sea. Some of the best hotels in Gibraltar are in this area, so having a fabulous beach vacation is easy and convenient.
You could also choose to stay in the North District. If you book your lodgings here, you’ll be well-positioned to visit the Moorish Castle, the Cradle of History Monument, and Victoria Stadium. Of course, it’s also a great place from which to explore the Rock of Gibraltar itself, one of the world’s most breathtaking monoliths. Plus, it’s where the border is between Gibraltar and Spain.
Jasmine Coral Jay Boutique Botel
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It shouldn’t come as a surprise to learn that one of the best hotels in Gibraltar is a boat! There are several excellent options when it comes to this type of accommodation, and the Jasmine Coral Jay Boutique Botel is one of them. This cool motor yacht, measuring 80 feet (24 meters), is a fantastic place for a romantic, intimate getaway.
Enjoy sleeping in a cozy cabin, which comes with a DVD player as well as tea/coffee makers. If you’d like to work on your tan, head to the deck and lie back with a book on a lounger. And if a drink sounds lovely, there’s a bar where you can get a beer, wine, or other drinks from one of the refrigerators. It’s worth keeping in mind, though, that the yacht doesn’t have a shower. You’ll have to walk around 230 feet (70 meters) to the marina if you need to use bathroom facilities.
Myriad restaurants and bars are in the marina area, so drinking and dining is never too far away. And for adventures in the water, take your pick from snorkeling, diving, and fishing.
Bristol Hotel
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Opened in 1894, the Bristol is an excellent example of vintage hotels in Gibraltar. Stately in appearance, it’s in the traditional style of English hotels. The lobby welcomes you with its warm colors, marble pillars, crystal chandeliers, and scenic oil paintings. Not bad at all for a 3-star hotel! The rooms are likewise enticing, also done in earthy hues and with plenty of wood furnishings. An en-suite bathroom means you can refresh yourself at any time while free Wi-Fi lets you keep in touch with the outside world. And with climate control, you can keep as warm or as cool as you like in your room.
The Bristol Hotel boasts facilities and services that don’t fail to impress. Sunny days are best spent splashing in the outdoor pool or relaxing in the subtropical garden. Enjoy an early or late breakfast buffet in the dining room overlooking the pool. Later, grab a bite in the Moorish-style snack bar.
When you’re ready to go sightseeing, put on a pair of comfortable shoes and walk 12 minutes to the beautiful Gibraltar Botanic Gardens. Closer to the hotel, the 19th-century Cathedral of the Holy Trinity is another beautiful place to visit.
Arcadia 408
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If you’re looking for beachfront hotels in Gibraltar, check out Arcadia 408. Step out the front door and you’ll feel the golden sand between your toes and the sun on your skin. And if a swim is in order, you need only to walk a few feet to reach the warm, blue water.
Arcadia 408 offers spacious, light-filled apartments, each with sweeping views of the sea. Capable of sleeping up to three people, the apartments feature a large double bed. Plus, there’s a sofa bed in the living room. You can whip up a quick meal in your own kitchen and serve it in the dining area. And if you’d like to relax, you can spend time on the terrace or catch a show on the satellite TV.
The property is part of the Both Worlds complex above Sandy Bay, which is in the east side of Gibraltar. It’s a fabulous place if you’re after a quiet beach getaway. There aren’t any restaurants, shops, or clubs close by, but don’t worry if you get antsy for city life. There’s a convenient—and cheap!— bus service that will bring you to and from town.
Luxury Yacht Hotel
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The Lady Anita Luxury Yacht Hotel is a breathtaking way to experience the wonders of Gibraltar. A sleek, graceful Sea Ray 540 Sunseeker measuring 54 feet (16.45 meters), it’s packed with everything for a memorable stay.
Sleep on a decadent double or king bed in an elegant stateroom, where you’ll have your own private bathroom. You can spend lazy hours on the wrap-around sofa in the spacious saloon and grab a snack in the galley. And for high-tech entertainment, you can enjoy your music playlist via the Bose stereo systems or catch a show on the flat-screen TV. Want to bask in the Mediterranean sun? You can do that easily and in style on the top deck, which boasts elegant furnishings. No wonder this boat is one of the best yacht hotels in Gibraltar!
Docked in a quiet location at Pier 4 West, the yacht is steps away from the Ocean Village Marina’s attractions. Walk the resort’s cobblestone pathways and choose from among the many oceanfront bars and restaurants.
Luxe Holiday Rentals
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You wouldn’t be remiss if you consider Luxe Holiday Rentals in your search for the best hotels in Gibraltar. The property offers beautiful studio apartments done in the boutique hotel style. Each unit can accommodate up to four people. So, whether you’re traveling with family or with friends, you’ll experience luxurious comfort. Shoot the breeze on the patio while enjoying gorgeous sea views. Or, prepare a snack in the full kitchen before binge-watching the latest series on the flat-screen TV.
The superb rooftop pool is another awesome perk that this property offers. You can cool down in the water on a hot day and take in scenic views of the rock and the ocean while sunbathing. Keep in mind, though, that the rooftop pool isn’t open in the winter. The building also offers a spa and wellness center where you can unwind in the hot tub or sauna.
Luxe Holiday Rentals towers above the marina and is a mere 2-minute walk from main street and Casemates Square. Likewise, it’s a short walk from Gibraltar Airport. Speaking of which, did you know that Gibraltar Airport is one of the world’s 10 most dangerous airports to land?
Westone Luxury Self Catered Apartments
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Everything about Westone Luxury Self Catered Apartments exudes five-star elegance and class. Choose from exquisitely appointed studio and one-bedroom apartments. Everything you could ever need for a supremely comfortable stay are close at hand. Keep yourself entertained and up-to-date with the satellite TV and high-speed Internet. In the fully equipped kitchen, unleash your inner chef and create quick or gourmet meals. Enjoy superb views from your private terrace and sleep like royalty on luxury bed linen. And if you need laundry done, there’s no need to step out; each apartment has its own washing machine.
The seasonal outdoor swimming pool is a great place to hang out during sunny days. Of course, there’s also plenty to see and do nearby, and its central location makes sightseeing so convenient. Located in the business district, it’s a short stroll from the heart of town. Also, it sits amid many fabulous restaurants, cafes, and bars, so it’s one of the best hotels in Gibraltar for foodies.
Engineer Guest House
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There’s nothing quite like experiencing what it’s like to live as a local. And at Engineer Guest House, you’ll get to do just that. The property is in an 18th-century building where a multigenerational family lives. Their friendliness is part of what makes this property one of the popular hotels in Gibraltar. Of course, the rooms are also part of the attraction. You’ll stay in one of the spotless double rooms, each with its own private bathroom. Heating and a fan keep the room as warm or as cool as needed. And with a kitchenette and a microwave, preparing a quick meal is a snap.
The guest house is just off Main Street in the heart of town. As such, it’s an ideal base for shopping, dining, and sightseeing. Or, you can hop on a bus for a short ride to the beaches or the historic Alameda Gardens. Also, an 8-minute walk will bring you to Marina Bay Square, the departure point of a fun dolphin watching excursion.
One thing to remember: the area the guesthouse is in is quite busy. So, if even the slightest noise bothers you, you might want to bring along earplugs for a quiet night of sleep.
The Caleta Hotel Health, Beauty & Conference Centre
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Whether for business or for pleasure, your stay in Gibraltar will have an added dimension of luxury and comfort at the Caleta Hotel Health, Beauty & Conference Centre. Positioned on the golden sand in the Rock’s eastern side, it’s one of the best beach hotels in Gibraltar. This award-winning 4-star hotel offers a host of amenities to spoil and pamper you. For instance, you can enjoy rejuvenating treatments in the bright spa, while enjoying beautiful views of the water. Likewise, the refreshing pool overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and sits steps from the beach.
Choose from twin, double, and family rooms, which offer either a view of the Rock or the Mediterranean. Many offer expansive balconies. Also, you’ll enjoy modern comforts such as interactive TVs. And of course, refreshments are always available in the minibar. But if you’re planning a longer stay, you might want to consider one of the hotel’s luxurious suites and self-catering apartments.
When it comes to drinking and dining, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Indulge in a delicious meal at Nunos restaurant and refresh yourself in one of the three bars. And if you’d like to ride a cable car up the Rock, ask the 24-hour reception for information. They’d be happy to help.
The Eliott Hotel
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Explore the best that the Old Town has to offer by booking a room at the 4-star The Eliott Hotel. Its position on Governors’ Lane next to Main Street means it’s in the heart of the action. From the hotel, it’s a short walk to the open-air cafes at Grand Casemates Square. Meanwhile, the magnificent Saint Michael’s Cave complex is a 14-minute walk away.
Choose one of the chic rooms and suites, some of which feature balconies. Awake to stunning views of the Rock and the harbor. And for high-tech entertainment, stream content from your smartphone to a smart TV via the in-room Chromecast connectivity. If lots of space sound appealing, check out the Trafalgar Suite. Here, you can entertain guests or even host business meetings. Plus, you’ll relish fabulous views of the Bay of Gibraltar and Morocco.
In the summertime, beat the heat with a swim in the outdoor pool on the 8th floor. And if you want to maintain your fitness routine, just head to the hotel’s 24-hour gym. In the morning, grab a filling breakfast at the Rock Salt Restaurant. Later, unwind with a cold drink at the Veranda Bar. It’s a great way to end the day in one of the best hotels in Gibraltar!
Rock Hotel
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Set on the foothill of the imposing Rock, the 4-star Rock Hotel surrounds itself with beauty. Here, you can enjoy scenic views of the Bay and Strait of Gibraltar and the Spanish mainland. On top of that, it’s a stone’s throw from the lush and colorful Gibraltar Botanic Gardens. And if you’re in the mood for a long stroll, you can make the 37-minute walk to the Europa Point Lighthouse.
This 4-story hotel boasts 94 spacious and sunlit rooms and suites. Designed in true colonial style, they nevertheless feature modern comforts. After refreshing yourself in the bathroom using designer toiletries, swathe yourself in a fluffy bathrobe. You can then get a drink from the fridge and watch cable TV, all in the comfort of your climate-controlled room. For extra luxury, check out the Terrace Suites. Here, French doors open onto a spacious terrace where you can enjoy a meal.
Speaking of meals, you’ll have plenty of dining venues to choose from within the hotel’s premises. Savor Moroccan cuisine at the Terrace Restaurant and afternoon tea or a cocktail at the Lounge Bar. Also, there’s a bar serving delicious refreshments at the pool. By the way, the pool is also one of the hotel’s claims to fame: it’s the biggest hotel pool in Gibraltar.
Sunborn Gibraltar
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Our list of the best hotels in Gibraltar concludes with a 5-star property that sits not on land, but in the water. The amazing Sunborn Gibraltar hotel and casino resort is in a sprawling yacht, and it’s the only 5-star yacht hotel in Gibraltar. It boasts 189 rooms and suites spread over 7 floors, each one a study in excellence. Here, you can expect wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling windows and Juliet balconies or spacious terraces. Of course, you’ll also enjoy the best of modern comforts like free Wi-Fi, rainfall showers in marble bathrooms, and flat-screen TVs. But for the ultimate in luxury, book the Superyacht Penthouse Suite. With furnished private terraces and opulent living spaces, it’s worth every penny.
The hotel is also home to the world’s first superyacht casino, the Sunborn Casino Admiral. Try your luck at the jackpot slot machines or the live gaming tables. And when hunger strikes, make your way to the Barbary Restaurant on the top deck or the pool-side Aqua Bar.
Need to burn some calories? Head to the state-of-the art fitness room, where you can join a yoga session or an exercise class. Or, if you need a personalized workout, one of the qualified gym instructors will be happy to help you. Later, soothe those sore muscles at the sophisticated Infinity Spa.
Recommended Restaurants / Bars In Gibraltar:
- Paparazzi Steakhouse – From Wagyu to Hereford, indulge in mouthwatering steaks. They also offer seafood, salads, and pasta dishes. This restaurant is in the center of town, close to some of the best hotels in Gibraltar.
- The Star Bar – Gibraltar’s oldest drinking establishment, it’s said that Christopher Columbus once dined here. Today, it’s famous for its full English breakfast and classic fare. Of course, it also offers coffee, draught beer, and other beverages.
Recommended Activities In Gibraltar:
- Ebike Rock To The Top Tour Gibraltar – Ride a premium eBike to the peak of the Rock of Gibraltar and be amazed by the views spanning three countries and two continents. You’ll also stop at attractions like the Windsor Suspension Bridge and the Pillars of Hercules.
- Gibraltar National Museum – Find out all about Gibraltar’s history and culture in this wonderful museum. See the remains of a 14th-century Moorish bath, marvel at medieval artifacts, and learn about the marine biodiversity off the coastline. Located in the city center, it’s easily accessible from many hotels in Gibraltar.
