Getting Around Gibraltar. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation

Gibraltar operates a comprehensive public bus network that covers most areas accessible by road. It comprises the main form of public transit, as Gibraltar does not possess a metro or tram system. The bus network provides a reliable and affordable way to traverse the area.

Bus route maps are available at bus stops and online through the Gibraltar Bus Company. Important hubs include areas around Grand Casemates Square and the main bus station in the town center. Buses connect these central points to residential areas, the airport vicinity, the border with Spain, and the territory's beaches.

Fares & Accessibility

Fares are paid in cash (GIP or GBP) directly to the driver upon boarding; single journeys cost around £1.50.
Day passes or multi-journey tickets offer savings for multiple trips.
Buses generally operate from early morning until late evening; main routes see buses every 10-20 minutes.
Accessibility on the bus network is improving, with newer low-floor buses providing ramp access.

Taxis

Licensed taxis provide a convenient option for direct routes or guided tours of the Upper Rock. Find them at designated ranks or hail them.

Ride-Sharing

Major international ride-sharing apps, like Uber or Lyft, do not operate within Gibraltar. Local taxi services serve as the main hired car service.

Walking

Walking serves as an excellent way to explore Gibraltar, specifically the pedestrian-friendly town center. Sturdy walking shoes are essential for the Upper Rock.

Rental Options

Cars & Motorbikes

Car rental is available with desks at the airport and in town.
A valid driving license, passport, and credit card for deposit are mandatory.
Motorcycle/scooter rentals are less common but might be found. Wear a Helmet.

Bicycles & Driving Notes

Bicycle rentals are suitable for flatter areas. The Rock is too steep for most cycling. Bring a Bike lock.
Driving laws match the UK (drive on the right). Speed limits are generally low.
Private vehicles are usually not permitted on the Upper Rock.

Specialized Transport & Safety

Tour Buses

Minivans and buses offer guided Rock tours, accessing restricted areas.

Water Taxis

Connect various points around the harbor for scenic crossings.

Cable Car

A popular ascent to the top of the Rock for panoramic views.

Safety Warnings

Exercise caution on busy roads. Obey airport runway signals when closed for plane movements.

Walking and Cycling Routes

Walking excels as a way to explore Gibraltar, allowing you to appreciate its character and find hidden corners. The town center, Main Street, and surrounding lanes are very pedestrian-friendly. The area around the marina and Eastern Beach also offer pleasant walking routes.

Upper Rock Exploration

Many attractions on the Upper Rock involve significant walking on paved and unpaved paths.
Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are essential for these excursions.
Guided walking tours provide historical and cultural context. Self-guided tours use maps or Smartphone apps.
The Cable Car provides quick ascent to the top of the Rock for panoramic views.

Cycling Limitations

Bicycle infrastructure is limited. Dedicated cycling lanes are not common.
Cyclists share roads with vehicles; use caution.
The steepness of the Rock and many stairs make much of the Upper Rock unsuitable for cycling.
Always check signs and local advice for restricted access areas.

Safety and Practical Tips

Exercise caution in busy roads or areas with heavy traffic.
The airport runway (Winston Churchill Avenue) closes to pedestrians when planes are landing or taking off.
Always obey barriers and flashing lights indicating runway closure.

Wear comfortable walking shoes for extensive walking on the Rock.
Have exact bus fare ready when boarding for smooth process.
Contact the Gibraltar Tourist Board for detailed accessibility information.

Planning Your Movement

Foot Exploration

Many central attractions are walkable. Plan routes with elevation changes in mind.

Bus System

For longer distances or to avoid hills, the bus system has a cost-effective alternative.

Taxi/Tours

Taxis offer direct transport; Rock tours by taxi provide convenience and local guidance.

Optimal Transport Strategies

Each method offers unique advantages depending on your destination and preferences.

Short Distances & City Center

Walk to explore Main Street, Casemates Square, and the marina areas.
The compact nature of the city center means most points of interest are easily reachable on foot.
Use the local bus for short hops or to avoid a long walk in hot weather.
Consider bicycle rental for exploring the relatively flat southern parts of the peninsula.

Upper Rock Access

The Cable Car provides a quick and scenic ascent to the Upper Rock.
Taxis offer guided tours of the Upper Rock, reaching multiple sites without extensive walking.
Consider a specific tour bus that travels through the Upper Rock Nature Reserve.
For the adventurous, hiking to and around the Upper Rock provides a rewarding challenge.

Cross-Border & Distant Travel

Spanish Connection

For travel to/from Spain, walking across the border to La Línea and then using Spanish public transport (buses) or taxis is common.

Efficient and avoids queues.

Ferry to Morocco

A ferry service links Gibraltar to Tangier Med in Morocco, offering an easy passage between continents.

Unique sea journey.

Airport Access

The airport is within walking distance of the town center, or a short taxi/bus ride. Factor in runway closure times.

Proximity for flights.

Local Taxi Insights

Taxi Fares & Metering

Typical fares are metered for standard journeys within the town.
For tourist routes like a full Rock Tour, agree on the price with the driver before beginning.
Payment is usually cash, though some taxis take cards. Fares are relatively high for short distances.

Taxi Availability & Safety

Licensed taxis are available at airport, border, town center, and Cable Car base.
They are generally safe and reliable. Confirm the meter or agreed price.
Many taxi drivers are knowledgeable guides for Rock tours.

Traffic & Pedestrian Alerts

Roads & Driving

Roads can be narrow, winding, and steep, requiring cautious driving.
Parking is limited and often expensive in the town area.
Private vehicles are largely restricted from the Upper Rock.

Pedestrian Hazards

The airport runway closes to all traffic when planes operate.
Always obey the barriers and flashing lights at the runway crossing.
Some Upper Rock areas may present challenging terrain; check signs.

Final Tip for Getting Around

Embrace Gibraltar’s walkable nature by exploring the town on foot.

For longer distances or specific areas, the public bus system has a dependable and economical choice. Always combine modes of transport for the most efficient and enjoyable experience.

Getting Around Gibraltar