Gibraltar Travel Risk

Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory, so there is no British Embassy and you should ask the relevant Gibraltar authorities if you need help.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Gibraltar

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Gibraltar, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Crime

Violence and street crime are rare, but you should take sensible precautions to protect your belongings.

Laws and cultural differences

Alcohol and drug laws

The laws of Gibraltar are similar to UK laws for alcohol, drugs and anti-social behaviour.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is legal. There is an active LGBT+ community, but due to the small size of Gibraltar, there are few places which are exclusively LGBT+ orientated.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Money

Pounds sterling is the currency in Gibraltar. Bank of England-issued notes and UK coins are accepted and are mixed with locally-issued notes and coins of the same value in pounds and pence.

Some businesses accept euros, but check the exchange rate offered. Notes issued in Scotland or Northern Ireland are not usually accepted in Gibraltar.

Gibraltar-issued notes and coins are not usually accepted in the UK.

Risk level

Gibraltar - Take normal security precautions

Take normal security precautions in Gibraltar.

Crime

Although the crime rate is low, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, occurs. Thieves occasionally target unattended vehicles.

People walking at night between La Línea de la Concepción, in Spain, and Gibraltar have been attacked and robbed.

• Keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place
• Do not leave valuables in your vehicle and always lock your doors
• Park your vehicle in a secure area, especially at night

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Terrorism

While there have been no recent terrorist attacks in Gibraltar, they can still happen. There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities and further attacks are likely.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including police stations
• schools, including universities
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
• cultural venues

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Be particularly vigilant during:

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• public celebrations
• major political events, such as elections

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks.

The Government of the United Kingdom maintains a public alert system on terrorism in Gibraltar. The current threat level is 2, “moderate,” on a scale of 5. Changes to the national threat level are communicated online and through local media.

Threat levels – Royal Gibraltar Police