Costa del Sol is a fantastic spot for seeing more of Spain and beyond. With its sunny coastline, lively towns, and proximity to fascinating destinations, it’s no surprise that tours here are popular. Whether you want to step into British history in Gibraltar or cross into Africa for a taste of Morocco, the options are impressive. I especially like the Gibraltar sightseeing tour because it combines natural beauty, history, and unique wildlife — plus, you get to see the monkeys running loose. For a more cultural experience, the Morocco day trip offers a quick escape to another continent with vibrant markets and flavorful food. And if shopping’s your priority, the Gibraltar shopping tour turns duty-free deals into a day of bargain hunting.
Quick Overview
Our list covers three main types of tours: the Gibraltar sightseeing adventure, the Moroccan cultural day trip, and a shopping-focused Gibraltar tour. Each offers a distinct experience: natural wonders and wildlife, cross-continental culture, or retail therapy in duty-free stores. Now, let’s look at each tour in detail to help you decide which fits your travel style best.
1. From Malaga and Costa del Sol: Gibraltar Sightseeing Tour
At number 1, this Gibraltar sightseeing tour gets high marks for its comprehensive look at “the Rock.” Starting with a full-day trip that runs about 11 hours, you’ll visit Punta Europa, where you can stand on another continent, and explore the St. Michael’s Cave, an underground marvel with stunning formations. The tour covers Gibraltar’s rugged natural sites, historic forts, and secret tunnels, offering a rich taste of its layered past.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to see Europe’s only wild monkeys, the Barbary Macaques, freely roaming the area — a favorite highlight for many visitors. The tour also highlights Gibraltar’s multi-cultural legacy, blending British and Spanish influences, and the chance to shop VAT-free for souvenirs and designer goods. Reviewers praise the trip’s smooth organization and engaging guide, with comments like “Very well coordinated and very well explained,” and “Our guide Polina was kind and helpful.” Some wish for a bit more time on the Gibraltar side, but overall, it offers solid value for its price of around $108.
Bottom Line: If you want a full-day exploration blending natural beauty, history, and shopping, this tour offers a well-rounded experience without breaking the bank.
$108 per person
2. From Málaga: Morocco Day Trip with Tour Guide and Lunch
Number 2 on our list is the Morocco day trip. For around $164, you’ll cross the Strait of Gibraltar by ferry, leaving Spain behind for a glimpse into North Africa. The trip centers on Tetouan, a Moroccan city known for its traditional crafts and vibrant streets.
The tour includes a visit to a herbalist for demonstrations of herbal remedies, a walk through bustling markets filled with spices, textiles, and local produce, and an authentic Moroccan lunch at a local restaurant. It’s a great choice if you’re interested in culture, local flavors, and seeing a different way of life in just one day. The ferry ride offers scenic views of the strait, making the journey itself part of the experience. Reviewers comment on the colorful markets and the lively atmosphere, noting that it’s a full day packed with memorable sights and tastes. This tour is ideal for travelers eager to step into Africa’s culture without a long trip or overnight stay.
Bottom Line: For travelers craving a quick but immersive cultural experience, this trip combines scenic travel, market browsing, and delicious food — all in a day.
3. From Malaga and Costa del Sol: Gibraltar Tour
Coming in at number 3 is the Gibraltar tour, focusing mainly on shopping and sightseeing. Priced at around $41, it offers a full day in Gibraltar dedicated to wandering duty-free stores, hunting for bargains on British brands, Gibraltar Crystal, and souvenirs.
This tour is perfect for those who want to enjoy Gibraltar’s reputation as a shopping haven, with time to explore the St. Michael’s Cave and see the famous Barbary macaques. The emphasis is on retail therapy, but you’ll also get a taste of Gibraltar’s scenic and cultural highlights. Travelers appreciate the opportunity to find fashion bargains and unique gifts, while also enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of Gibraltar’s streets. The tour’s value is clear, especially for budget-conscious travelers who prefer a day focused on shopping but still want to experience some local sights.
Bottom Line: If your main goal is to score duty-free deals and see Gibraltar’s top attractions without a lengthy excursion, this tour delivers good value and a fun day.
$41 per person
How to Choose
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and schedule. For a full, well-rounded experience with natural beauty and history, the Gibraltar sightseeing tour offers an excellent mix. If cultural discovery and market browsing appeal more, the Morocco day trip is perfect. And for those who want to maximize shopping and sightseeing on a budget, the Gibraltar shopping tour is a practical choice.
Consider how much time you have—if you’re only in Costa del Sol for a short stay, the Morocco trip provides a quick escape. For a leisurely exploration of Gibraltar’s natural sites and wildlife, the full-day sightseeing tour works best. Budget travelers will appreciate the value in the shopping-focused option, while culture lovers might prefer the Moroccan experience.
Final Thoughts
Costa del Sol offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests. If you’re fascinated by history, wildlife, and stunning scenery, the Gibraltar sightseeing tour is an excellent choice. For an immersive cultural day, the Morocco trip offers a quick but rich experience across borders. And if shopping is your priority, the Gibraltar shopping tour makes duty-free retail fun and straightforward.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months when these tours tend to fill up. Whether you want natural beauty, cultural discovery, or retail therapy, Costa del Sol’s tours promise memorable adventures.