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Holidays to Gibraltar take you to a slice of Britain in the heart of the Mediterranean. With 300 days of sunshine, resident wild monkeys and plenty of English watering holes, the magic lies in its mix of the familiar and the exotic. As a British territory bordering Spain, it's like walking into a typical seaside town in Blighty with a subtropical climate. Expect fish and chips shops and red post boxes sitting alongside Andalusian style townhouses.

Its unique geographical position also means it's the only place in Europe where you can see Africa, a mere 14 miles across the Strait. Gibraltar's VAT-free status also allows you to do some serious shopping at a fraction of the price. So if you're craving bucket-list-level scenery, beautiful sandy beaches and duty-free shopping, Gibraltar holidays are for you.

Things to Do

Just a quick hop from the UK (2.5 hours), the "Rock of Gibraltar" is the perfect destination for a mini-city break or weekend away. Covering less than three square miles, getting around this compact peninsula is super easy and affordable. Grab a bargain on the duty-free Main Street, take in spectacular vistas from its famous rock, or while the hours away on its relaxing British pub scene. You could even hop on a mini bus if you want to visit neighbouring Morocco.

Shopping

One of our favourite places to visit in Gibraltar is Ocean Village. With its duty-free status and backdrop of high-end yachts, it's a shoppers' paradise. The sterling currency also means you won't be hit with any costly conversion rates. Lined with perfumeries, jewellery stores, boozy outlets and high-street names, you can shop ‘til you drop right into one of the many bars and restaurants along the strip. We recommend Sunborn Gibraltar for its casino and cocktails on the water.

Nightlife

Gibraltar holidays offer plenty in the way of nightlife. From traditional British pubs to high octane clubs open 'til sunrise. For Hawaiian vibes, check out Paradise Tiki Bar. Its funky music, exotic cocktails and tropical vibes will keep you going long after the sun comes up. For live DJ sets and vast dancefloors, make your way to Dusk, one of the trendiest nightclubs in town. Those in search of some home comforts will enjoy a late evening at The Ship, with good old English beer taps, pub grub, karaoke, quiz nights and sport on the big screen.

History & Culture

Its strategic location has made Gibraltar one of the most fought after places in Europe. Explore the underground siege tunnels and 8th-century forts to glimpse into its epic military past. In the shadow of a Moorish castle is Casemates Square, a bombproof barrack built in 1817. This is now a bustling plaza filled with shops, bars, and restaurants. The square also hosts many grand military parades and National Day celebrations.

Europa Point

Just a short 15-minute bus ride from the centre of town is Europa Point. Sitting at the most southern tip of Gibraltar, you'll get to see some incredible views out to Africa and Tangier. A large cannon points out across the Mediterranean Sea, with plaques detailing the unique history of its location. There's also a mosque, small church, cafe and lighthouse to explore.

Cable Car to the Summit 

A holiday to Gibraltar would be incomplete without a trip to the top of the "Rock". While you can hike 5 miles to the summit, most visitors take a cable car to the top, taking just 6 minutes. At its peak, you'll find a nature reserve teeming with cheeky Barbary monkeys waiting to greet you. Keep hold of your handbag, though. They do like to grab anything they can get their hands on. You mustn't touch or feed them either, but watching them swinging through the trees is quite a sight.

Walk the Skies

Standing 340 metres above sea level is the famous Skywalk. Taller than the highest point of the London Shard, you're invited to walk across the glass-bottomed platform for uninterrupted views over three countries and two continents. Those seeking further thrills can stroll along the wobbly Windsor Suspension Bridge, high above a 50-metre gorge. If you'd prefer to keep your feet on the ground, there's another route around the bridge.

St Michael’s Cave

One of our favourite places to visit in Gibraltar is St Michael’s cave, a natural wonder filled with stalactites and stalagmites. A mesmerising light show illuminates the formations. The site has hosted many weddings, picnics and concerts in the Victorian era. Known also as the cathedral cave, the venue still hosts many live music events within its auditorium.

Family Fun

There are plenty of things to do with the kids in Gibraltar. One of our favourite attractions is the dolphin excursions. Many of these tours run from Marina Bay, taking you on a viewing vessel that cruises the Strait. And for a history lesson like no other, head to the WW2 siege tunnels, filled with marvels of military engineering. Another top family attractions in Gibraltar is the Rock Escape Rooms, where you can crack codes and riddles together.

More City Breaks

We also have travel guides available for City Breaks destinations, including: Berlin | Hong Kong | Marrakech | Prague

Holidays to Milan whisk you away to one of Northern Italy’s most captivating cities. Synonymous with elegance and sophistication, Milan is among the most fashionable places across the globe, home to iconic brands such as Prada, Gucci and Versace. Here, the streets are lined with trendy boutiques filled with everything from designer clothing to vintage jewellery – every shopaholic’s dream.

Aside from being the style capital of Italy, this trendy city is also renowned for its impressive art, fascinating architecture and luxury dining scene. Stroll around the Pinacoteca di Brera and marvel at the works in the Museo Novecento. Or explore the city’s extraordinary Gothic cathedral before heading over to the Navigli district to enjoy a delicious meal. While Milan holidays are ideal for avid fashionistas, there’s something to delight everyone in this Italian powerhouse.

Fashion capital

Milan is one of the most important fashion capitals in the world, along with Paris, London and New York. It’s particularly famous for its role within the prêt-à-porter clothing category (clothes that are sold ready to wear instead of made to measure). Milanese style denotes charm and glamour, and the city is the birthplace of many of the world’s most influential brands.

Milan hosts its famous Fashion Week twice a year, where fashion lovers come to witness catwalk shows and presentations of the latest trends. The city also showcases other important fashion events, such as the Milano Unica Event. This takes place annually and allows up-and-coming designers the opportunity to showcase their work.

Naturally, there are plenty of places to shop in this vibrant city. The Quadrilatero della Moda is one of Milan’s most popular shopping streets, dotted with high-end shops and local and international brands. Corso Vittorio Emanuele II is home to other fashion stores, such as Zara and H&M.

Cultural landmarks

Milan city breaks are an opportunity to visit fascinating landmarks. This cultural haven is full of awe-inspiring buildings and monuments that tell the tale of Milan’s rich history.

Its most famous structure is the Duomo di Milano, the third-largest cathedral in the world. Complete with 135 spires and 3,400 statues, this Gothic building stands proudly in the Piazza del Duomo, the main city square of Milan. The Duomo di Milano took nearly 500 years to complete and required thousands of artists and sculptors for its construction. Here, visitors can climb up to the roof terrace to enjoy stunning panoramic views across the city.

Another of Milan’s must-visit landmarks is Santa Maria delle Grazie, a unique church and symbol of the city’s Catholic tradition. It's at this outstanding building that you can see Leonardo da Vinci’s unrivalled masterpiece, The Last Supper, displayed across the north wall.

Dazzling city

If you’re looking for places to relax after the sun sets, Milan has it all. Its Navigli district is one of the most-loved places to enjoy an evening of merriment, home to a plethora of restaurants, nightclubs and cocktail bars.

As well as a range of picture-perfect eateries and delightful waterside bars boasting a lively atmosphere, you'll find a choice of high-end restaurants, including Al Pont de Ferr and Carlo e Camilla.

To soak up the party atmosphere, head to Apollo Club, a popular venue that offers a combination of a disco space, a cocktail bar and a restaurant. Or for something truly unique, spend an evening at Nidaba Theatre, where you can enjoy live music performances. Whether you’re after a refreshing tipple or want to dance the night away, look no further than this fabulous canal district for an unforgettable night out.

More travel guides

Not sure where you're going yet? Check out our other city guides, including: Amsterdam | Barcelona | Berlin | Dublin | Florence | Lisbon | Marrakech | Monte Carlo | Naples | Paris | New York | Rome | San Francisco | Venice | Vienna