The Rock of Gibraltar – or 5 Myths about Gibraltar busted
Trip Index (what we have published so far):
Why you should visit the Princes' Island Istanbul
My Top 20 Things to do in Istanbul
Why you should make the trip to Ephesus Turkey
My Top 10 Things to do in Athens – on a layover
Visiting 'Gibraltar' has been been on my to-do list for quite some time.
Myth #1 You can't drive on the Rock of Gibraltar
Busted!
Yes - you can! While the roads are narrow it's absolutely possible. Most car rental companies will only give you a manual in Europe (i.e. stick shift). This will be annoying enough but you will also be required to drive up 20% ascents and never ever roll back an inch. It's fun but you need to bring the skills!
The fee for the Gibraltar Rock is GBP 10 per person and GBP 2 per car.
You can drive up to the Saint Michael's Cave and walk up to the highest point from there.
Myth #2 You need to drive on the left side in Gibraltar
Busted!
This isn't the China mainland & Hong Kong border - all cars drive on the right - like in the rest of continental Europe. You don't have to switch sides at the border - no crazy traffic confusion.
Myth #3 - You can order a 'Gibraltar' anywhere in Gibraltar
Busted!
I found only one decent coffee shop in town (given it was Sunday) and the barista thought I would poke fun at him by ordering a 'Gibraltar'.
Myth #4 - You can't drive with your rental car into Gibraltar
Busted!
Most car rental companies allow you to go to Gibraltar (as well as to Andorra or San Marino). This usually does even incur an extra fee. Just ask when you pick up the rental or before making a reservation.
Myth #5 - You will get an exit/entry stamp into your (US) passport when leaving Spain and entering Gibraltar
Busted! (at least for me)
While there is a real border control when entering Gibraltar it's much more relaxed coming back. The immigration officer wanted to see that I have a passport (I just held it open through the car window) but no stamping or close-up checking was done. No passport stamp for me.