Cable car close to the top of Gibraltar rock. Cable car is a comfortable way to get to Alameda Wildlife Conservation Park in Gibraltar. (Image: maniscule via Getty Images)
A stunning location perched on Spain’s periphery, renowned for its temperate weather and celebrated landmarks, has just been crowned Europe’s sunniest spot for 2026. Gibraltar is an English-speaking territory, despite enjoying a prime position that can be reached overland from Spain.
Its compact size – merely 6.8km2 – makes it exceptionally pedestrian-friendly, as the entire area can be explored on foot in approximately two hours. Gibraltar’s terrain is abundant with natural splendour, overshadowed by the Rock of Gibraltar, a striking geological feature that soars 426 metres above sea level and provides sweeping vistas of the « island, » the neighbouring Strait of Gibraltar, Spain and Morocco. The territory comprises two principal zones: the western flank, where the majority of residents reside, and the eastern shoreline, location of the picturesque Catalan Bay and Sandy Bay, reports the Mirror.
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The War Tunnels are a great place to explore its rich history (Image: Getty Images)
For holidaymakers seeking cultural enrichment during their getaway, there’s an abundance of historical interest at the Great Siege Tunnels and the World War II Tunnels. Intrepid explorers may also want to consider a trip to St Michael’s Cave; contrary to the name, this isn’t just a single cavern, but an extraordinary system of limestone caves.
If heights isn’t a concern, then make room in the schedule for attractions such as the Skywalk viewpoint with its transparent floors, or the Windsor Suspension Bridge. Meanwhile, Europa Point’s lighthouse provides prospects of Spain and Africa, alongside numerous walking trails across the Rock.
Gibraltar is the only place in Europe with wild monkeys (Image: BBC NHU/Mark MacEwen)
One attraction that most visitors describe as essential is a trip to The Upper Rock Nature Reserve, where you’ll encounter the iconic Barbary macaques – Gibraltar’s celebrated inhabitants and Europe’s sole wild monkey population, renowned for approaching holidaymakers, requesting food and even occasionally taking possessions.
Another advantage of Gibraltar’s position is its Mediterranean climate which ensures its reputation as a dependable destination year-round. Gibraltarian summers are warm and arid, whilst winter delivers gentle sporadic rainfall at most. Average temperatures reach up to 28°C, but typically hover around 21.7°C.
Holidaymakers contemplating a visit to Gibraltar can anticipate a straightforward journey, with direct flights from London and Manchester that, when reserved ahead of time, can cost as little as £50 to £70. Standard fares range between £100 and £300 depending on the month.
The territory is also simple to explore, and not merely because everything is in English and establishments accept British Pounds.
Bus services cover the entire territory, even the airport can be reached on foot, beverages are typically more affordable than in the UK and the food has strong British influences. It comes as little surprise, therefore, that recent research from TUI has identified Gibraltar as amongst Europe’s sunniest Easter destinations.
The study revealed that the peninsula typically enjoys favourable weather conditions throughout spring, recording average rainfall of just 6.75mm and gentle winds of 3.61 – securing its position as the continent’s 10th sunniest location.
For those seeking Europe’s ultimate sunny getaway, Turkey claimed top honours with a score of 9.04 out of 10, thanks to its average temperatures of 18.09°C, negligible rainfall and the gentlest winds featured in the rankings. Greece and Bulgaria followed closely behind in second and third place respectively.
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