Gibraltar is an extremely unique place to visit. With its weird and wonderful mixture of Spanish, North African, and English cultures; this overseas territory has been luring travellers for years.
The small headland territory (Gibraltar isn’t actually a country) is full of natural wonders, from incredible rocky landscapes to pristine beaches. As well as epic nightlife, casinos and shopping!
It’s most well-known for its vast Upper Rock Nature Reserve that stretches over the whole territory. Along with its luscious greenery which is home to a species of wild monkeys.
Although, Gibraltar is small – seriously, it’s only 6.8 km² – it’s still important to know the best place to stay depending on your travel style and budget.
That’s where I come in! I’ve explored all 6.8 km² Gibraltar and have compiled the best areas to stay. I’ve categorised them by interest and budget to make your decision-making even simpler.
You’ll find the best places to stay and things to do in each area too. By the end of this article, you’ll be an expert on the areas of Gibraltar and all set to book your trip!
So, without further ado – let’s get into the good stuff and find where is best for you in Gibraltar.
Where to Stay in Gibraltar
Wanna cut straight to it? Check out our favourite accommodation picks in Gibraltar.
Luxury Yacht Hotel | Best Hotel in Gibraltar
A night on a luxury yacht but at a fraction of the usual price? I’m in. The Luxury Yacht Hotel in Ocean Village provides guests the opportunity to stay in a yacht hotel without having to spend thousands on a working charter. Its exclusivity and beautifully decorated interior make it our top pick for hotels in Gibraltar.
Luxury modern apartment with exceptional views! | Best Bed & Breakfast in Gibraltar
Located in the Sandpits neighborhood, this spacious and stylish apartment is ideal for couples deciding where to stay in Gibraltar. The modern accommodation has a chic ambience and draws guests in with its breathtaking views of the ocean (you can even see Northern Africa from your balcony on a clear day!)
Emile Hostel | Best Hostel in Gibraltar
An obvious choice with it being the only centrally located hostel, Emile Hostel is our top pick for budget accommodation in Gibraltar. It’s definitely an awesome place to stay in its own right, providing a great social atmosphere just minutes away from the famous Casemates Square.
Gibraltar Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Gibraltar
Old Town
The Old Town is the depiction of Gibraltar’s ‘Britain in the sun’ reputation with English-style pubs and shops with a hint of Spanish architecture. Old Town is also located just a 15-minute walk from the airport so you won’t need to get a taxi to reach your accommodation making it a super convenient spot.
Ocean Village
Gibraltar’s swanky waterfront neighborhood of Ocean Village is our top pick for the coolest area to stay in Gibraltar. Ocean Village is the perfect place to immerse yourself into a plush lifestyle without the extravagant prices with a great selection of upper class bars, restaurants and a gorgeous harbour.
Sandpits/Reclamations Area (West Side)
The Sandpits is a modern neighborhood in Gibraltar just south on the coastline from Ocean Park. Not only is the area home to great activities, including boat trips and watersports, there are great bars and a few clubs to dance the night away.
East Side
The East Side is known for being the quieter and more relaxed area of Gibraltar and has recently become one of the most sought-after regions in Gibraltar. Full of pristine beaches with beautiful backdrops of the famous Upper Rock Nature Reserve, it has some of the best views in Gibraltar.
Gibraltar is home to only 34,000 people but attracts over 11 million visitors every year with its warm weather and natural beauty. There are heaps of accommodation options to choose from, but here are where you’ll find some of the best…
First-time visitors to Gibraltar will find that the Old Town is an awesome option, as its lively atmosphere and central location make it the perfect place to explore! It’s also well connected to other popular destinations, making it a great base for getting to know the island.
Ocean Village‘s chic and somewhat exclusive feel makes it an awesome place to stay in Gibraltar for couples. It’s home to a glamorous marina with mega yachts and large sailing boats dotted across it, along with a selection of some of Gibraltar’s best restaurants and bars.
The epic location and its stylish selection of hotels, restaurants and bars make it our top pick for the coolest area to stay in Gibraltar. It’s also within walking distance from the airport, plenty of beaches, and the famous Upper Rock Nature Reserve.
Unlike its louder neighbors Ibiza and Mallorca, Gibraltar isn’t particularly known for having a wild nightlife scene. However, if you’re looking for a few drinks after a day of exploring, then the Sandpits Area is the place to be! It’s full of lively bars and is buzzing all night long, making it the best area to stay in Gibraltar for nightlife.
Families deciding where to stay in Gibraltar should check out the East Side Region. Home to arguably the most beautiful coastline in Gibraltar, the area offers plenty of family-friendly adventures like paddle boarding and kayaking.
Gibraltar’s 4 Best Areas to Stay in
Now, let’s take a closer look at the best places to stay in Gibraltar. We’ve included our favourite accommodation and activity picks in each area, so you know exactly what to expect!
1. Old Town – Where to Stay in Gibraltar for First Time Visitors
The Old Town is the depiction of Gibraltar’s ‘Britain in the sun’ reputation. It offers English-style pubs and shops with a hint of Spanish architecture.
Conveniently, the Old Town is also located just a 15-minute walk from the airport! This makes it a super convenient spot and means you can spend less time on the road and more time enjoying the island. Its central location means you can also easily access the regions stunning beaches.
With so much to discover, this charming and lively neighborhood is our number one pick for where to stay in Gibraltar if you’re visiting for the first time.
The Elliot Hotel | Best Hotel in Old Town
This stylish 4-star hotel wows guests with its incredible rooftop pool and terrace, which boasts spectacular views of the Rock of Gibraltar and the Gibraltar Strait. The hotel offers two bistro restaurants and is beautifully decorated throughout. You may not want to leave the place, but if you do, top attractions are within easy walking distance.
Cozy City Apt with Summer Pool | Best Bed & Breakfast in Old Town
This quaint B&B sits in the heart of Gibraltar’s Old Town, only a few steps away from Main Street and Casemates Square. This duplex apartment is comfortably furnished with everything you’ll need to feel right at home. The coolest thing about this place has to be the rooftop terrace, where guests can cool off in the large pool overlooking the area.
Emile Hostel | Best Hostel in Old Town
Gibraltar’s only hostel is located in the heart of town, just steps away from the famous Casemates Square. The traditionally styled hostel prides itself on its social atmosphere and offers both private and dorm rooms. A bonus is the hostel offers plenty of tours to top attractions in Gibraltar, perfect for those solo travellers.
Things to See and Do in Old Town:
- Throw on your hiking boots and head up to Upper Rock Nature Reserve.
- Browse the shops in Casemates Square.
- Ride the Gibraltar Cable Car for awesome vistas over the island.
- Brave the Gibraltar Skywalk & Windsor Suspension Bridge.
- Gorge on incredible food at The Kasbar.
- Have a wild night at the traditionally-named Red Lion Pub.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI2. Ocean Village – Coolest Place to Stay in Gibraltar
Gibraltar’s swanky waterfront neighborhood of Ocean Village is, we reckon, the coolest area to stay in Gibraltar. Ocean Village is the perfect place to immerse yourself into a plush lifestyle without the extravagant prices, offering a great selection of upper-class bars, restaurants, and a gorgeous harbour.
Ocean Village is also on the doorstep to Gibraltar’s top attractions, including the infamous Upper Rock Nature Reserve and Europa Point.
Luxury Yacht Hotel | Best Luxury Accommodation in Ocean Village
Fancy your own private luxury yacht but don’t fancy paying the extreme charges to charter your own for the week? The Luxury Yacht Hotel in Ocean Village provides a luxury but stationary experience in the Marina.
The yacht hotel provides a sense of exclusivity with a beautifully modern interior, and sits on a private berth. If you fancy stepping off from the water then you won’t have to go far for entertainment as the yacht is only a five-minute walk from the town centre.
SEA AIR OCEAN VILLAGE | Best Budget Accommodation in Ocean Village
This cosy apartment is our top pick for couples deciding where to stay in Gibraltar. The marina-front flat has a cosy and romantic atmosphere with spectacular backdrops of the ocean. Interiors are modern yet homely and there is plenty of bright natural light across the apartment.
Luxury 1 bedroom apartment in front line marina | Best Bed & Breakfast in Ocean Village
Located right in the heart of Ocean Village’s charming marina, this luxury apartment is on the doorstep to Gibraltar’s best cafes and bars. After a day of exploring, guests can enjoy gorgeous views from the large terrace and a beautiful outdoor swimming pool.
Things to See and Do in Ocean Village:
- Browse the restaurants and bars at Marina Waterfront.
- Go on a boat trip from Marina Bay.
- Pack your beach bag and spend the day at Western Beach.
- Learn to sail at Gibraltar Yacht Charter.
- Ride the Gibraltar Cable Car.
- Take a hike up to Upper Rock Nature Reserve.
3. Sandpits/Reclamations Area (West Side) – Where to Stay in Gibraltar for Nightlife
The Sandpits is a modern neighborhood in Gibraltar sitting just along the coastline from Ocean Park. Not only is the area home to great activities like boat trips and watersports, but there are also great bars and a few clubs where you can dance the night away. Th amazing waterfront cafes serving up a storm to see off the hangover.
This area is very well equipped for travellers with a variety of accommodation options on offer. Here, you’ll find everything from budget hotels to marina front apartments. along with a few unique offerings.
Ocean Heights | Best Hotel in Sandpits
Nestled between the Old Town and Sandpits, the Ocean Heights provides the perfect mixture of private accommodation and hotel facilities. The complex has a variety of spacious and minimalistic apartments fitting different group sizes, making it ideal for anyone from couples to large families.
Luxury modern apartment with exceptional views! | Best Bed & Breakfast in Sandpits
Spacious, stylish and pristine are the three best ways to describe this modern waterfront apartment! The apartment has a chic ambience and draws guests in with its breathtaking backdrop of the Majestic Rock. On a clear day, you can also see far-reaching views of Northern Africa from the balcony.
Private room with sea views | Best Budget Accommodation in Sandpits
If you’re looking for a centrally located but budget-friendly place to stay in Sandpits, then this home-style apartment is a great option! It’s basic but comfortable, and offers easy access to some of the coolest things to see and do in Sandpits!
Things to See and Do in Sandpits:
- Take a day trip to the southern tip of Europa Point.
- Tick off Gibraltar’s most famous attraction with a trip to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve.
- Go dolphin watching (make sure you go with an ethical company! Do your research beforehand as there have been a number of companies with bad reputations)
- Wander along the Gibraltar Skywalk.
- Let your hair down at Garden Bar.
- Have a cocktail or three at the Lounge Bar .
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.
Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Grab an eSIM!4. East Side – Where to Stay in Gibraltar for Families
The East Side is known for being the quieter and more relaxed area of Gibraltar, and is growing in popularity. It’s full of pristine beaches with beautiful backdrops of the famous Upper Rock Nature Reserve and boasts some of the best views in Gibraltar.
It also has a variety of waterfront dining options along with easy access to the city centre. The combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and easy access to the rest of the islandmakes it perfect for families heading to Gibraltar.
Arcadia 408 | Best Budget Hotel in East Side
This awesome budget accommodation in Gibraltar provides all the comforts of a hotel with the convenience of a bed and breakfast. Arcadia 408 is a beautiful apartment that sits right by one of Gibraltar’s best beaches. It’s slightly removed from the town centre, so you’ll have a sense of privacy and exclusivity.
The Hub – Brand new Studio – Balcony – 6th floor | Best Bed & Breakfast in East Side
This modern studio apartment is fully equipped with new facilities and a beautifully decorated interior. Located on the northern tip of the east side, the bed & breakfast has the perfect mixture of being cut off from the hustle and bustle of Gibraltar’s centre while being close enough to enjoy its main attractions.
The Caleta Hotel Health, Beauty & Conference Centre | Best Hotel in East Side
On the tranquil Eastern side of the Rock, this 4-star Gibraltar hotel boasts stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s home to an award-winning Nuno’s Restaurant which specialises in homemade pasta and seafood. Sitting just a short walk from the coastline, it’s perfect for those looking to enjoy the outdoors.
Things to See and Do in East Side:
- Soak up the sun on Eastern Beach.
- Go exploring through Saint Michael’s cave .
- Learn history at Moorish Castle, a fascinating medieval fort in Gibraltar.
- Absorb the natural beauty of Catalan Bay.
- Have some tasty food at Nunos Restaurant.
- Sip on an exotic cocktail at Kokonut Bar.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Gibraltar
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Gibraltar and where to stay.
What To Pack For Gibraltar
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Gibraltar
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Gibraltar
While Gibraltar is best known for having warm weather and exotic coastal waters, it also offers visitors a lot of authentic history.
There are loads of great places to explore, so it’s understandable if you’re still unsure where to stay in Gibraltar! We reckon Old Town is the place to be; it’s got accommodation to suit every travel style and budget, plenty of history to discover, and great entertainment options.
Once you’ve figured out which area of Gibraltar is best for you, it’s a good idea to take out some travel insurance. Gibraltar is a super safe destination in the UK, but it’s always good to be prepared in case things don’t go to plan!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around UK.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Gibraltar.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Europe.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
