I am sorry to say that I did not like Gibraltar at all. Everyone makes such a big deal about being so close to Africa, but the real interest for me is Gilbraltar's history, especially during the Battle of Trafalgar, the Spanish Civil War and World War II. The history is almost completely eclipsed by extreme, ugly, noisy overdevelopment. You can't see the historic walls for the tacky hotels that have been built right up on them. If there isn't a hotel crowding out the historical space there is one being built -- the noise and clamor of construction, along with the screeching of motorcycles was deafening. We took a tour of the WWII tunnels and the guide rushed us through -- it was clear he was bored to death. The tunnels are filled with historical photographs that we weren't allowed to stop and read in any detail -- so disappointing. Based on reviews from another site we headed for Casemates Square for a bit of relaxation and late lunch. It was filthy and filled with boorish tourists. I'm not a fuddy duddy even though this review sounds like it. Both my husband and I felt that this lovely place had been ruined in the attainment of wealth.

The only thing to like in Gibraltar was the view from the top of the rock. We did not like the lack of cleanliness; pigeon mess and dog muck all around; the fish and chips and full breakfasts everywhere; late opening times am; sullen service; impatient drivers; overcrowded streets; the bad traffic planning; the uninspired architecture; uninteresting shopping; badly organised tours. We had the impression that Gibraltar is stuck in the 1950’s or before with black out screens, ARP shelters etc. An interesting but not to be repeated visit.

Walking and the views. A very nice place to enjoy a daily stroll with spectacular views over the whole penisular. Food was excellent and outdoor dinky very relaxed. A great place to visit if you like a strenuous vacation.

Gibraltar was not on our top list when visiting Andalusia; yet it did exceed our expectations and it is a must see when visiting south spain. Its mixture of history, scenic views and various activities (hiking, swimming, walking...) makes it attractive give to various ages and tastes.

Gibraltar is both historic and modern, Gibraltarian and British and Spanish and cosmopolitan. Gibraltar International is a real airport; with modern up-to-date facilities and a view that is stunning, and where travellers are not encased in endless duty-free shops and fast food outlets. Gib takes time to explore: get away from Main Street and walk; take the cable car for one of Europe's great views, and then walk back down through the nature reserve to the city; walk to the Trafalgar Cemetery and the nearby Botanic Gardens, not forgetting the statue of Nelson; take the #2 bus to the Trinity House lighthouse at Europa Point, and feel the wind and imagine that here the ships of the Royal Navy returned carrying Nelson's body after the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805; take a taxi to the WW2 siege tunnels, but walk a bit further up to the tunnels dug during the Great Siege of 1779-1783; eat fish and chips, but also wander among the stunning new developments and decent restaurants at Queensway Quay. Above all, visit the King's Chapel, the British Garrison church for 200 years, next door to the Governor's residence. Everything about Gib is immaculate: there is a standard of courtesy and civic pride that Britain has lost. The shopping is cheap, but unimaginative except for the Spanish wine, cheese and ham shops. A spot of reading before the visit makes Gib so much more rewarding. I did a lot in three days, but could have found plenty to do for much longer.

Great weather even in December, great food, a fair amount to do for a tiny place. I enjoyed Catalan bay (Seawave), Casemates square (the square cafe), Europa point, the museum, the taxi tour (to Apes den, O'Hara battery, St Michaels caves, Great Siege tunnels), moor Castle and Marina bay. 2 days is enough time to cover it all but not enough to relax and enjoy the place, so I recommend a day or two extra.