Deborah Cater
If you’re living in Spain or just visiting and fancy a quick trip to Gibraltar, here’s what to expect when crossing the border. And that’s a crucial point, it’s a bona fide border with passport control, which varies from lax to strict depending on the political pull at the time.
I crossed over into Gibraltar for a netball umpiring course, earlier this month and parking was simple, passport control was in one of its happy ‘wave you through’ phases and the sun was shining. Until I stepped on British soil when a few spots of rain fell – a welcome home, as it were!
However, things are not always that simple so you should be aware of any potential delays, and what you need to take with you.
First things first – passport
Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory, but don’t assume that means a casual stroll across the border. This is a full-blown international crossing. You’ll need your actual passport – a Spanish NIE or ID card won’t cut it. Expect to show it twice in quick succession; first to the Spanish authorities as you exit Spain, and again immediately after to the British/Gibraltarian border officials.
Queues can build up, especially if political relations are tense. However, even during ‘normal’ times, there is a rush hour. The busiest times tend to be weekdays from 8am–10am going in, and from 4pm–7pm heading out. At peak hours, you could be sitting in traffic for quite a while, so plan accordingly.
Driving into Gibraltar? Think twice
You can take your car in, but honestly, unless you have a specific reason, it’s more hassle than it’s worth.
First, you’ll need to check your insurance. If you have a green card, great. If it’s a hire car, make absolutely sure you’re allowed to take it out of Spain, many rental companies prohibit this.
Then there’s the parking problem. Street parking is practically impossible unless you’re a resident, and mistakes can cost you – clamping and towing are common. Municipal parking is available, with both paid (blue) and free (white) spots in the same car park. This can be a confusing system even for locals. The blue spots cost £1.00/hour or €1.20/hour, with a time limit. The machines accept both currencies.
There are also private car parks, but they fill up quickly, especially during the tourist season.
If you do drive over, remember, despite being under British rule, they drive on the right, just like in Spain. It makes it much easier for traffic flow and has been this way for nearly 100 years now.
Best option? Park in La Línea and walk
This is the most stress-free approach, especially if you’re only popping in for a couple of hours or not planning to carry back lots of shopping.
Top recommendation: Gibraltar Sta Bárbara Car Park
– Outdoor, two minutes’ walk to the border
– Closest and cheapest option
– Prices: €2.20 for 1 hour, €15.60 per day, €43 for 7 days, €75 for 15 days
Another option: IC Plaza Constitución Car Park
– Indoor, four minutes on foot to the border
– Slightly more expensive but secure and shaded
– Prices: €8 per day, €54.25 for 7 days, €98.53 for 15 days
Once parked, it’s a short and easy stroll across the border. You’ll pass through passport control and be in Gibraltar in minutes.
What’s Gibraltar like once you’re in?
You’ll feel the British vibes straight away: red phone boxes, fish and chips, English signs. But don’t be surprised if you hear a mix of Spanish and something that sounds vaguely familiar but a bit off that’s Llanito. The local dialect, it is a unique blend of English, Spanish, Genoese and other influences. Sadly, it’s in decline. The locals generally speak both English and Spanish fluently, so communication won’t be an issue.
The shops cater well to British tastes. Yes, you can get your Branston Pickle fix (or Marmite in my case!). Of course, being British, the pound rules as far as currency goes. If you’re resident in Spain, it’s easier to pay by card then faff about with currency exchange, unless you’re a regular visitor. As with Scotland, Gibraltar issues its own notes, so you can expect to see a different design on the Gibraltar pound.
But remember, if you’re planning a shopping spree, lugging bags back to La Línea on foot might be less fun. For that, a taxi to the border or driving in may be worth the headache.
If you’re headed to Gibraltar to explore its fascinating history, take these tips into account and have a wonderful time.