gozo malta tourist attractions

12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on the Island of Gozo

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

If you've read Homer's Odyssey , you may recognize the Island of Gozo as the legendary Calypso's Isle described in the epic poem.

Today, this Mediterranean island still fits the description of idyllic scenery, with its quaint fishing villages and peaceful bays. The pastoral landscape features green, rolling hills with a patchwork of small farms that lead down to sandy beaches and small coves.

The rural setting makes Gozo feel farther from Malta than the eight-kilometer channel separating the two islands would suggest.

Postcard-perfect images define the island's picturesque coastline of sheltered beaches. The crystal-clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The countryside also has many scenic pathways, ranging from gentle walks to invigorating hikes.

Gozo is known for its sleepy ambience but comes to life during summer, holidays, and festivals.

The main resort town, Marsalforn, is surprisingly lively. In the high season, the harbor area bustles with activity: vacationers taking strolls along the promenade and dining at the waterfront restaurants, and sunbathers headed to the small centrally located beach.

To arrive in Gozo, you have to take the ferry from Cirkewwa on the Island of Malta to the seaport of Mgarr on the Island of Gozo. You can then hop on the local buses (and taxis) to get around the island. Buses run less frequently than on Malta, but it's easier than renting a car. Gozo bus drivers know how to navigate the island's hairpin turns and narrow one-lane roads.

Learn about the best places to visit with our list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Gozo.

See also: Where to Stay on Gozo

1. Victoria: A Medieval Hilltop City

2. ġgantija temples: a unesco world heritage site, 3. the seaside resort of marsalforn, 4. gozo's best beach: ir-ramla il-hamra, 5. spectacular sea views and the baroque church of nadur, 6. swimming and diving at dwerja bay, 7. the basilica of ta' pinu: a national shrine and pilgrimage church, 8. fishing, swimming, and diving at xlendi, 9. ix-xewkija rotunda: gozo's largest church, 10. a heritage of handcrafted lace in sannat, 11. the dramatic scenery at ta'cenc cliffs, 12. mgarr ix-xini: a secluded beach and snorkeling site, where to stay on gozo for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to gozo island, map of tourist attractions on the island of gozo.

Gozo's capital city, Victoria (also known as Ir-Rabat) is surrounded by a sun-parched Mediterranean landscape. The historic center of Victoria stands on a hilltop enclosed within a Citadel (Cittadella), constructed by the Knights of Saint John after the medieval walls were destroyed by the Turks in 1551.

The immense fortified ramparts of golden stone glow a pinkish-ochre hue in the afternoon light. From the three bastions (semicircular battlements) of the Citadel, you can take in panoramic views of the Gozo countryside. The landscape is dotted with villages in the hills and valleys all the way to the sea. Within the Citadel is a maze of winding streets and narrow alleyways.

At the heart of the Citadel is the Cathedral of the Assumption designed by Lorenzo Gafà. Maltese Baroque style of the 17th century defines the façade, with its ornamented doorway and Corinthian pillars. The interior features exquisite ceiling paintings and ornate gilded moldings. Above the nave, a trompe l'oeil painting tricks you into believing that there is a dome.

The cathedral has a noteworthy statue of the Virgin Mary ( The Assumption of Our Lady ) created in Rome in 1897. Every year on August 15th, the cathedral celebrates its Feast Day, and the statue is paraded around the town during the festivities.

Cultural attractions in the Citadel include the Folklore Museum , which presents traditional costumes and crafts of Gozo Island; and the Old Prison used by the Knights of Saint John in the 16th century (the cells are covered in prisoner's graffiti).

Housed behind the Citadel's gateway in a 17th-century townhouse, the Gozo Museum of Archaeology displays an exceptional collection of ancient art, tools, and architectural elements dating from 4100 BCE to 2500 BCE found at Neolithic sites on Gozo Island. Highlights are the prehistoric statuettes from the Ggantija Temples and the ix-Xaghra Stone Circle.

Outside the citadel in the more modern area of Victoria is Independence Square , a bustling hub of street vendors and shops.

Steps away from Independence Square is St. George's Basilica is a 17th-century Baroque church known as the "Marble Basilica," because the interior is covered with marble inlays and columns. The basilica also has lavish ceiling paintings and numerous works of art by Mattia Preti.

A short walk from the basilica is the Baroque Church of Saint Francis . The exquisite interior features a charming ceiling painting that depicts a multitude of pudgy winged cherubs.

This UNESCO-listed archaeological site dates from a very early period of civilization: 3600 BCE to 3200 BCE, the Ġgantija Phase during the Copper Age. Along with Ta Hagrat and Skorba in Malta, the Ġgantija Temples are believed to be the oldest freestanding monuments in the world, predating Stonehenge in England and the Pyramids in Egypt.

The etymology of "Ġgantija" is derived from the Maltese word for "giant" ("ggant") because it was believed the site was built by a race of giants. This mythological idea makes sense considering that the temples are constructed from megaliths (massive limestone blocks) measuring more than five meters in length and weighing over 50 tons.

To arrive at the Ġgantija Archaeological Park , you follow a scenic path that leads to a contemporary Interpretation Centre . The center displays artifacts from prehistoric archaeological sites on Gozo Island and provides context for understanding the temples.

Ġgantija Temples is one of the best-preserved archaeological sites on the Maltese Islands. The archaeological park is well-maintained and beautifully situated. Excavated in 1826, the site contains the ruins of two temples enclosed by a perimeter wall, which is the most striking element of the site.

The temples feature a terrace in front, which would have been used for ceremonial rites , while stone hearths and animal bones found throughout the site suggest rituals of animal sacrifice. Statuettes and other objects found at Ggantija Temples are now on display at the Museum of Archaeology in Victoria.

The Ggantija Temples site is located just outside the center of Ix-Xaghra . This small country village has a splendid 19th-century church and a pleasant main square lined with outdoor cafés.

Address: John Otto Bayer Street, Xaghra, Gozo

This seaside resort town defies Gozo's reputation as a sleepy island. During summertime, Marsalforn swells with hundreds of Gozitan visitors, Maltese families, and European tourists. Despite the bustle of activity, the town has a laid-back ambience.

On hot sunny days, Marsalforn's small pebble beach is filled with sunbathers lounging under colorful parasols and kids playing with beach balls. The water is safe enough for swimming and for children to wade.

Marsalforn's tiny harbor is a popular starting point for scuba diving expeditions. Favorite places to visit for scuba diving trips from Marsalforn include the Blue Hole and the Inland Sea on the Island of Gozo, around Cirkewwa on Malta Island, and the Comino Caves on the Island of Comino.

Marsalforn is a charming and convenient place to stay, especially for families and travelers seeking a relaxing vacation. Local grocery stores and shops sell essentials like snacks, sunscreen, and swimsuits, and the town has a great selection of hotels and holiday rentals.

The waterfront is also a hub of restaurants and cafés, most of which have pleasant outdoor terraces overlooking the sea. In the evenings, many families stroll along the waterfront promenade after dinner.

Local festivals and outdoor music concerts take place throughout the summer, taking advantage of the balmy evenings.

Nestled along a protected bay surrounded by steep cliffs, Ir-Ramla il-Hamra (Ramla Bay) is the largest beach on the Island of Gozo. Unlike most beaches in Malta, Ramla Bay has a wide shore covered in fine reddish sand. There are almost no pebbles except for a few where the shore breaks.

In this sheltered location, the gentle sea is shallow and calm, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The Green Flag that is usually flying indicates the safety of the waters. Many vacationers come to Ramla Bay simply to sunbathe and lounge under parasols.

A delightful place to spend the day, the Ramla Bay beach features well-maintained facilities: public bathrooms, showers and changing areas, umbrella and lounge chair rentals, snack kiosks, and ice-cream stands. In the middle of the beach is a large statue devoted to the Virgin Mary known as Our Lady of Hope.

Gozo buses stop at the Ramla Bay beach, but a more scenic route is the eight-kilometer walking path from Marsalforn. This moderately difficult hike traverses hillsides and clifftops (beware of steep drops), affording superb seaside views along the way. The route continues through rural valleys, past the village of Ix-Xaghra until reaching the coastline at Ramla Bay.

Verdant valleys surround this historic hilltop town, which looks out to the Mediterranean Sea. This strategic location was the watchpoint where the Knights of Saint John kept vigil over the channel between the islands of Malta and Gozo. The name of the village comes from the Maltese word that means "to keep guard."

Outside of the village, the Ta' Isopu Tower was built in 1667 by the Knights as a watchtower. At the highest point in Nadur, the more modern Ta' Kenuna Tower (open to the public) offers panoramic views of the Gozo countryside and the islands of Comino and Malta.

The village has a lavish Baroque Parish Church dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul. The ornate interior features marvelous ceiling paintings, gilded Corinthian columns, and an airy dome with stained-glass windows.

The Parish Church houses statues of Saint Peter and Saint Paul created in 1881 in Marseilles, which are paraded through town for the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul celebration at the end of June every year. The festival also includes brass band concerts, a crafts show, and fireworks.

Along the nearby coastline are three tranquil bays with excellent beaches. Gozo's popular wide sandy beach at Ramla Bay is a little more than three kilometers away.

San Blas Bay (2.5 kilometers away) has a pristine beach of fine red sand; the beach is unspoiled because it's only accessible by a narrow road and steep steps.

In the small inlet of Dahlet Qorrot Bay (three kilometers away) is a pebbly beach popular with swimmers and a cove used by local fishermen.

The famous Azure Window, a huge natural arch along the coastline, collapsed during a storm in 2017. Although the Azure Window was previously the main tourist draw of Dwerja Bay, the area is still worth visiting to appreciate the dramatic coastal scenery and deep blue waters.

The bay begins with the Inland Sea (Il-Qawra), a natural lagoon of shallow water in a recess along the coastline. The Inland Sea is a favorite spot for swimming and snorkeling.

An inlet connects the Inland Sea to a premier scuba diving spot in the Mediterranean, the Blue Hole , a 10-meter-wide sea pool. Divers pass through an underwater rock arch and tunnel of rock formations before diving into the sea. The clear blue waters at this site are filled with octopus, lobster, parrot fish, sea bream, and other schools of fish.

At the entrance of the Dwerja Bay, the 65-meter-high Fungus Rock was named after the flowering parasitic plant found here. The Knights of Saint John praised this plant for its medicinal properties.

The clear sea around Fungus Rock has a wide variety of fish and is suitable for scuba diving (accessible by boat). Fishermen also offer boat rides to tourists from the Inland Sea to Fungus Rock.

This Marian shrine is the most important pilgrimage church on the Maltese Islands. With its 47-meter campanile, the Basilica of Ta' Pinu stands as a beacon of faith in a remote valley between the villages of Ghammar and Gharb.

The Basilica of Ta' Pinu was built in the early 20th century after a miraculous event occurred here that was associated with Hail Mary prayers. The basilica was constructed on the site of a 16th-century chapel.

Designed in Romanesque style, the basilica has a stark exterior and a surprisingly inspiring interior that features exceptional Maltese craftsmanship. The sanctuary is plain but has a moving and reverential ambience. Part of the original 16th-century church, with its shrine to the Blessed Virgin Mary, was incorporated into the basilica.

The basilica's Sanctuary Museum illustrates the history of the Ta' Pinu Basilica and exhibits the art of Maltese painters Giuseppe Briffa and Emvin Cremona.

You may visit the Basilica of Ta' Pinu or attend Mass here daily. Please keep in mind that you must wear appropriate clothing.

Xlendi is an old fishing village that has become one of the island's most popular seaside resorts. The village nestles in the sheltered Xlendi Bay, a narrow inlet on Gozo's southwest coast, surrounded by steep limestone cliffs.

Traditional fishing boats in the bay seem unaffected by the passage of time, but flocks of tourists have changed the overall scene. This typical Gozitan village now has many contemporary seafront accommodations and modern hotels built into the steep hillsides around the bay.

Along the waterfront promenade and the small streets of the village are many restaurants and cafés. Most restaurants feature outdoor terraces, so that guests can dine alfresco while admiring the stunning landscape and mesmerizing deep blue sea.

The village has a tiny beach with sandy shores and gentle shallow waters, which are safe for swimming and wading.

Another great swimming area is in the area below the watchtower (this 17th-century tower was built by the Knights of Saint John). The natural coves around the beach are ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving, especially for beginners.

Ix-Xewkija is a historic village (the oldest on the island) best known for its parish church dedicated to Saint John the Baptist. This remarkable church at the center of the village is Gozo's largest religious monument; its dome is a distinctive landmark visible across much of the island.

The parish church is also known as the ix-Xewkija Rotunda because of its enormous dome, which is the third largest in the world after Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome. The ix-Xewkija parish church is the seat of the present-day Knights of the Order of Saint John (Knights of Malta).

Built in the 20th century, the Rotunda boasts impressive dimensions of 74 meters in height by 27 meters in diameter. Equally amazing is the fact that the dome weighs 45,000 tons.

The spacious white limestone sanctuary is sparsely decorated with sculptures and modern paintings. The polished marble on the floor was sourced from Carrara, Italy, and the main altar is also carved in precious marble.

Ix-Xewkija is about three kilometers from Mgarr ix-Xini , a beautiful inlet with a small pebbly beach that attracts many swimmers and snorkelers.

The Maltese lace industry was established in the early years of the 17th century. The craft of lacemaking came from Italy and was altered to create the easily distinguishable type known as "Maltese Lace."

Centuries ago, the village of Sannat was the center of the island's lace-making cottage industry. On rare occasions, visitors can still see women sitting on chairs in the shade of the 18th-century Parish Church of Saint Margaret , creating lace tablecloths and other crafts.

Sannat celebrates the Feast of Saint Margaret on July 27th, and the village Festa (religious festival) is held during the entire third week of July every year.

Sannat is in the south of Gozo Island just eight kilometers from the port town of Mgarr, where the ferry arrives here from the Island of Malta.

The breathtaking Ta'Cenc Cliffs are the tallest cliffs in Gozo at 130 meters high. The sheer precipice of white limestone cliffs looks like a slice of layer cake, with hundreds of layers dropping off into the sea below.

These spectacular cliffs were important to the Knights of Malta because they provided breeding grounds for their Peregrine Hunting Falcons (Maltese Falcons), although the species is now extinct on the Maltese Islands.

The Ta'Cenc Cliffs are just two kilometers from the village of Sannat. It's possible to hike to the cliffs from Sannat, which takes about 30 minutes and affords sensational views along the way. From the cliffs, you can admire sweeping views of the coastline.

About a 10-kilometer drive or hike from the port of Mgarr and five kilometers from Ix-Xewkija, the Mgarr ix-Xini Beach is found in the narrow inlet of a secluded bay, surrounded by steep-sided cliffs and a valley.

The beach at Mgarr ix-Xini is tiny and pebbly but is popular with swimmers because of the calm waters. Snorkelers appreciate the crystal-clear quality of the waters, which allow for views of flourishing marine life, as well as underwater photography.

Please note that the Mgarr ix-Xini Beach does not have lifeguards or public restrooms.

In the Mgarr ix-Xini area, there are opportunities for other things to do outdoors. Adventurous types will find spots suitable for rock climbing. If you enjoy hiking, you can explore the walking trail around the valley. The views are fabulous!

You could stay almost anywhere on the Island of Gozo, by the seaside or in the countryside, and enjoy a relaxing vacation experience. Either Marsalforn or Xlendi are ideal for a relaxing seaside holiday, while Victoria is the most convenient location for sightseeing. Larger resort properties are found near quaint villages in the countryside, where the sea can be seen in the distance. We recommend these highly rated hotels and guesthouses on the Island of Gozo:

Luxury Hotels :

• In the peaceful countryside near the village of San Lawrenz (a short drive from Dwerja Bay), the Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz is an upscale five-star resort with sprawling gardens; three outdoor swimming pools; four restaurants plus a poolside refreshment stand; and a spa with two indoor pools, a hammam, steam room, Jacuzzi, and relaxation areas.
• At the heart of Victoria on a street with many restaurants and shops, The Duke Boutique Hotel features contemporary-style guest rooms with luxurious bedding. Accommodation includes concierge services and a generous breakfast buffet. This hotel is a short walk away from the Citadel and 200 meters from the bus terminal.
• In the resort town of Xlendi, the waterfront San Andrea Hotel offers guest rooms with sea views and provides a complimentary breakfast buffet. This quaint three-star hotel features a rooftop terrace and a Mediterranean restaurant with outdoor seating.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• At the heart of Marsalforn, near many shops and restaurants and just a short walk from the beach, the Maria Giovanna Guest House is a delightful family-run bed & breakfast. This small boutique hotel offers lovely rooms decorated in classic Maltese style, and delicious breakfasts complete with homemade cakes and muffins.
• Right on the harbor in Marsalforn, the four-star Hotel Calypso offers stunning sea views and three restaurants. The hotel features a rooftop terrace with a sundeck and swimming pool. Services include massages, spa treatments, and fitness sessions. A breakfast buffet is available.
• Just outside the village of Xaghra, the Cornucopia Hotel occupies an authentic converted farmhouse with traditional decor. This four-star property has a resort feel, thanks to its swimming pool, outdoor terraces, distant sea views, and a restaurant that serves excellent Italian and Maltese cuisine.

Budget Hotels :

• Tucked away in the quiet village of Gharb, just a short walk from the town square, Grotto's Paradise is a bed-and-breakfast hotel in a typical Maltese house. This three-star hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and sun terrace. The hotel is located within walking distance of the Basilica of Ta' Pinu and three kilometers from the Dwerja Bay.
• In the seaside resort of Marsalforn, the Lantern Guest House provides affordable, family-friendly accommodations, including breakfast. This two-star hotel is just one block from Marsalforn's waterfront promenade and a short walk away from the beach.
• Sightseeing Tours : For tourists wondering how to see all the sights on a short trip to Gozo, an organized tour provides a solution. The Gozo Full-Day Quad Tour with Private Boat offers a delightful seven-hour spin around the island, allowing for stops at highlights such as Dwerja Bay, the Basilica of Ta' Pinu, and Xlendi. To see both Gozo and Comino islands, the Comino Cruise and Gozo Jeep Safari Malta Tour is a fabulous option.
• Use the Bus System : The Island of Gozo has an excellent bus system that provides access to all of the top tourist attractions on the island. Although the Gozo buses run less frequently than on Malta, this mode of transportation is an easy-to-use and affordable way for tourists to travel around the island.
• Hiking Excursions : Gozo is a small island, and many sights are within reasonable hiking distance. The eight-kilometer hike from Marsalforn to Ramla Bay leads through hillsides and valleys to the coastline, with amazing views along the way. You can also try the five-kilometer hike from Ix-Xewkija to the tiny beach of Mgarr ix-Xini. The most exhilarating hike is the eight-kilometer trail from Victoria via Xlendi to the Ta'Cenc Cliffs.
• Boating Trips : Scenic boat rides give you a chance to take in Gozo's incredible seaside scenery. A popular boating excursion is from Gozo to the Island of Comino; multiple ferry services run from Gozo's port town of Mgarr to the Blue Lagoon on Comino. For an outdoor adventure, take an organized kayaking excursion from Gozo to Comino . It's also possible to travel by boat from the seaside resort of Xlendi to Dwerja Bay.

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Other Sights on the Maltese Islands : The Island of Gozo is usually part of a Maltese Island travel itinerary. Gozo is accessible by ferry boat from the Island of Malta, so you may begin your tour in the elegant capital of Valletta , then visit the UNESCO-listed medieval walled city of Mdina before taking a bus trip across the Island of Malta to embark on the ferry in Cirkewwa, Malta to the port of Mgarr on the Island of Gozo. While visiting the Island of Gozo, you can sail or take a ferry ride to the Blue Lagoon on the Island of Comino.

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Explore the beauty of Malta, Gozo and Comino

A Complete Guide to Top Things to Do in Gozo [+Map]

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Searching for things to do in Gozo? You’re in luck! I’ve been in Malta since 2011 and know Gozo like the back of my hand. This guide is your go-to for the best places, perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and beach lovers. Let’s dive into what Gozo has to offer!

I love Gozo and I visit it every month. It’s special because of its charm. Think quiet villages, narrow streets, old houses, untouched nature for cliff hikes, and pretty, uncrowded beaches. It’s like a mini holiday, even for us living in Malta.

If you have just a day or two in Gozo and don’t want to miss anything, I’m here to help. This guide ensures you experience the best of Gozo. Sunbathing on picturesque beaches, exploring ancient sites, enjoying nature – I’ve included all the must-see sites and my favourite hidden spots.

Here is the table of contents to jump right to the section you’re interested in.

Table of Contents

Facts about Gozo, Malta’s Sister Island

• Gozo is Malta’s second-biggest island.
• It’s been inhabited since the Bronze Age.
• Around 37,000 people live on the island.
• The main town, Victoria , is also the capital of Gozo.
• The island is known for handmade goodies – think cheese, honey, and wine.

An Interactive Map of the Best Things to Do in Gozo

Below is a map that will guide you on what to do in Gozo. Notice all those small markers? Just move your mouse over any of them. You’ll see the place name and a location link.

• Ggantija Temples
• Marsalforn Bay
• Hondoq ir-Rummien
• Qbajjar Bay
• Mgarr ix-Xini Bay
• Fungus Rock
• Dwejra Inland Sea
• Xlendi Watch Tower
• Il-Gasri Valley

If you’re checking out the things to do in Gozo and planning to use public transport, here’s the deal. Public buses are decent, but many routes go through Victoria , so you often end up needing two buses to reach your destination.

This can take quite a bit of time. For a short visit, like a day or two, I’d say renting a car is your best bet. It’s way more convenient and saves time, so you can see more of Gozo’s awesome spots without the hassle.

Need advice on renting a car in Malta? Here’s my guide with insider tips on everything you need to know.

If you’d rather enjoy Gozo without worrying about directions, book a guided tour . You’ll be chauffeured to all the main sites, no stress! And if you prefer quieter experiences, no worries. You can always book a private tour – just you, the breathtaking sites, and no distractions.

Best Things To Do in Gozo If Love History

The island of Gozo is the ideal destination for history lovers. These are the top Gozo attractions you shouldn’t miss.

Visit the Ggantija Temples

Built around 3600 BCE, the Ggantija Temples are one of the oldest still standing in the world. Their name comes after the Maltese word for “giant” since they were believed to have been built by giants.

Ggantija Temples are on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list. They are a popular tourist attraction on Gozo and are open daily to the public. 

In addition to Ggantija, there are other megalithic temples in the Maltese archipelago. Check out this blog for more information.

Discover Victoria and the Citadel

Victoria is t he capital city of Gozo and is located in the centre of the island. The town was initially called Rabat, but in the 19th century, the town was renamed Victoria in honour of Queen Victoria. However, most Gozitans, especially older ones, still refer to it as Rabat.

The Citadel is Victoria’s top historical attraction. It is a fortified city located in the centre of Victoria. Also known as Castello, it has been inhabited since the Bronze Age.

There’s evidence that this area was an acropolis for the Punic-Roman city of Gaulos. During the medieval period, a castle was built on top of the Acropolis, providing shelter to Gozo’s citizens. In 1551, Ottoman forces invaded and destroyed the Cittadella. 

The Knights of Malta undertook a major reconstruction of the Citadel in 1599. They have built a gunpowder fortress on the Citadel’s southern walls. Northern walls were also rebuilt, although they retained their medieval look.

As the Citadel has been renovated and expanded over the years, it is now a popular tourist destination with museums, churches, and cultural attractions. It is also a popular photography spot that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

There are also several museums in the Citadel of Gozo:

The Gozo Museum of Archaeology : This museum has a collection of ancient artefacts and displays about Gozo’s history.

The Gozo Nature Museum : This museum exhibits the natural history of Gozo. Various collections can be found here, including minerals, geology, marine life, habitats and ecosystems, and national plants.

The Gran Castello Historic House : The museum’s collections portray everyday life on the Maltese Islands through artefacts that tell the story of agricultural society, customs, and crafts.

Old Prison : There are two parts to the prison complex – an open cell and a separate building with six solitary cells. The prison operated from the mid-16th century until 1962.

Knights who had been acting up were held there, including Fra Jean Parisot de Valette (a later Grand Master of Malta). There are many carvings on its limestone walls. They include images of vessels, handprints, crosses, names, dates, games, and drawings.

Places to Stay in Gozo

Gizimina B&B by VeroSole : Traditional farmhouse with a pool in Xaghra with a home-like atmosphere. Book here .

Townhouse17 Boutique B&B : Located in Victoria, Gozo’s capital, this boutique hotel with stylish rooms and excellent dining in Victoria. Book here .

Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz : A 5-star luxury experience with gardens, spa and multiple pools in San Lawrenz. Book here .

Best Things To Do in Gozo if You Love Water Sports

With crystal-clear waters and scenic beaches, Gozo is a popular destination for water sports. You can try these activities while you’re on Gozo:

Scuba Diving : Several dive centres on the island offer courses and guided dives for beginners and experienced divers. Gozo’s underwater scenery, wrecks, and marine life make it one of the best diving spots in the Mediterranean. A must try dive sites in Gozo include the Blue Hole and Inland Sea .

Snorkelling: As the Gozo waters are clear and offer excellent visibility, snorkelling is very popular. You can snorkel anywhere near rock-covered shorelines. My favourite snorkelling site is Dwejra’s Blue Hole.

Kayaking : Discover hidden coves and beaches while kayaking the island’s coastline. You can rent a kayak in Mgarr ix-Xini , Ra mla Beach and Hondoq ir-Rummien Beach .

Paddle Boarding : The calm waters of Gozo make stand-up paddle boarding an ideal activity. Several rental companies are offering both stand-up paddle boards and guided tours.

Gozo offers a wide range of water sports. Whether you like diving, snorkelling, kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding, there’s something for you. 

Swimmers and beach lovers will also love Gozo. Keep reading and learn about some of Gozo’s top beaches for swimming and beach lovers.

How about staying in Gozo in a villa with a private pool? Discover your dream spot with my guide to the best villas for every budget.

Best Things to Do in Gozo in Summer

What could be better than a day at the beach? Gozo takes beach bliss to a new level. Beachgoers love its pristine shores and crystal clear waters. Here are some incredible beaches you won’t want to miss:

Ramla Bay : On t he east coast of Gozo, Ramla Bay is a large, sandy beach with red sand. It’s a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.

There are a few restaurants and kiosks near the beach. You can also rent water sports equipment. You can try banana boating, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding or waterskiing. 

Marsalforn : With a few small sandy beaches, and a laid-back atmosphere, Marsalforn Bay is a popular tourist destination.

There’s a beautiful contrast between the blue Mediterranean Sea and the white rocks lining the left side of Marsalforn Bay. They’re made of white limestone and make an excellent spot for pictures.

Hondoq ir-Rummien : The clear waters of Hondoq ir-Rummien make it a popular swimming spot, especially among locals.

This bay offers breathtaking views of Comino and Malta. The Gozitans love this bay for barbecues in the summertime and for relaxing in the evening. 

Xwejni Bay and Qbajjar Bay : Two shallow bays are next to one another, both with rocky stretches and pebbly beaches. There are several bars along the waterfront.

Xwejni Bay is amazing for snorkelling. You will find naturally formed rock formations with tunnels and arches underneath. There is a nice play of light and dark blues due to the varying depth of the water. You might also see octopuses, crabs, and colourful fish. 

In summer, tourists and people from Malta visit Gozo, and the most popular beaches can be crowded. Check out my guide to lesser-known beaches if you want peace and quiet.

Nature Lovers’ Top Things To Do in Gozo

Get ready to fall in love with the island’s natural beauty. There are several scenic areas on Gozo, including Mgarr ix-Xini, Dwejra and the Xlendi Cliffs.

Visit Mgarr ix-Xini Bay

A stando ut feature of Mgarr ix-Xini Bay is its secluded location, making it a perfect place to escape the crowds. It’s also famous because Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt filmed “By the Sea” here.

Despite the small beach and pebbly shore, I recommend this place because of its setting and landscape. This bay is surrounded by cliffs, making it a great photo backdrop.

In summer, you can swim or snorkel and jump off the rocks along the bay’s sides. But be aware of anything dangerous, like strong waves or sharp rocks.

You can also rent kayaks to explore the area from the water and enjoy the scenery from a different angle.

Located a short walk from the beach is the Knights’ Watchtower. It’s open to the public, and visitors are welcome to see the watchtower built by the Knights in 1661.

The bay is only accessible by a narrow road. Parking is limited, so get there early. Bring your own food and drinks, because there’s only one restaurant on the beach.

Explore Dwejra

On Gozo’s west c oast, Dwejra off ers stunning natural beauty and is a popular tourist destination . There are lots of interesting things to do here, like visiting the Blue Hole, t he Inland Sea , t he Fungus Rock, and the Azure Window.

Blue Hole : There’s no better diving spot in Malta than Dwerja’s Blue Hole. It’s perfect for snorkelling, freediving, and swimming.

The Blue Hole is a circular limestone sinkhole with an area of five metres across and ten metres wide. The depth of the hole is 15 metres.

At nine metres deep, there’s an underwater window that leads to the open sea. Large boulders line the exterior, while coral and marine life decorate the walls.

There’s a 200-meter walk over sharp rocks to get to the dive, but it’s worth it! It’s best to wear waterproof sandals or aqua shoes.

Fungus Rock : This place is named after a plant called Maltese Fungus. The Knights found a Maltese fungus on the flat surface of the rock. Despite its appearance, it’s a parasite, not a fungus. It doesn’t have any healing properties.

During the Knights of Malta, getting to the rock without permission meant three years in jail. Apparently, the Knights were trying to save the Maltese fungus, thinking it had healing properties. It was even given to famous noblemen and visitors to the Maltese islands.

Fungus Rock is a natural reserve, but you can swim and snorkel nearby. A breathtaking sunset and high cliffs are my favourite things about this place.

Dwejra Inland Sea : T he Dwejra Inland Sea is a shallow, semicircular lagoon about 60m wide. It is connected to the Mediterranean Sea by an 80-m-long tunnel.

The Inland Sea is a popular destination for divers. But non-divers can also enjoy it by taking a boat trip to observe the cliffs and caves along Gozo’s western shore. 

Azure Window: There was a natural arch called the Azure Window on the coast of Dwejra. It was a popular tourist attraction and was known for its stunning beauty. As a result of natural erosion, the Azure Window collapsed in 2017. But despite its collapse, it’s still an iconic symbol of Gozo.

Check Out Xlendi Bay

Gozo ‘s Xlendi Bay i s at the bottom of a steep valley that starts from Kercem. This locality is popular with tourists and Maltese alike. It has many restaurants, cafés, kayak rental services and diving centres.

The seashore has a beautiful promenade lined with tables to enjoy a relaxing picnic.

People can also swim in this bay. On the left is a stone path with benches where they can leave their belongings and jump into the sea. Several ladders are available for swimmers to climb out of the water.

I recommend walking up to the Xlendi watch tower t o get a great view of the cliffs and the sea. You can reach the watch tower by walking along the promenade. Once you see a bridge over the valley, cross it and walk uphill along the path. 

From the tower, walk down to the limestone coast. It’s a nice, quiet spot, away from the tourist crowds. It’s a great place to relax, sunbathe, and admire the spectacular coastline.

Learn More about Salt Pans

Goz o’s salt pans are n ear Marsalforn, north of Xwejni Bay. Salt pans are shallow pools of seawater where you evaporate the salt. 

Salt pans have been used on Gozo for centuries to produce high-quality salt. The salt pans are a popular tourist destination.

Visitors see how salt is made and learn about the island’s culture and history. It’s not only historically significant but beautiful too. The salt pans glisten in the sun, creating a moon-like scene.

Discover Il-Għasri Valley

Il-Gasri Valley is a secluded canyon-like area surrounded by steep limestone cliffs. I love the view from the top of the cliffs. You’ll be blown away by the natural beauty there.

You can walk down the steps to a small pebble beach. Once there, you feel like you’ve found paradise, surrounded by nature and crystal-clear water.

The canyon is 300 meters long and narrow, which keeps the water quiet, and when it’s windy, this is a gorgeous place. You can enjoy the sound of the sea crashing against the rocks. It can get crowded later in the day with people and divers, so get there early.

Things to Do in Gozo: Go Hiking

All the nature sites in Gozo can be explored by hiking. It can be hot in the summer, reaching 30°C (86°F). So, the best time to hike is from October through May, when it is cooler. It can get muddy in winter, so wear non-slip waterproof shoes.

Some popular hikes include:

Walk from Xwejni Bay to Wied il-Ghasri: This trail runs along the coast of salt pans to Il-Għasri Valley. 

Hike from Mgarr Harbour to Xlendi : Enjoy stunning views of the sea and surrounding countryside on this walk.

A hike from il Ghasri Valley to Wied il Mielah Arch : This trek includes views of northern Gozo’s cliffs, caves, and valleys.

A hike from Mgarr Harbour to Hondoq Bay : This is a short beginner level coaster trek with Comino views.

Things to Do in Gozo: FAQ

Gozo stands out for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and stunning beaches. It’s quieter than Malta, perfect for a peaceful getaway amidst nature and history.

Totally! Gozo’s quaint villages, serene beaches, and historic sites are a treat. It’s filled with things to do in Gozo, making every visit memorable.

It depends on what you’re after. Malta buzzes with nightlife and shopping, while Gozo offers a more relaxed vibe. They both have their unique appeals

A day’s tight but doable for the main sights. Visit the Citadel, Dwejra Bay , Xlendi , and relax on a beach. If you’ve got more time, even better.

You’ve got to try fresh seafood, Ġbejniet (a tasty cheese), and Ftira – they use it for delicious pizza dough. These are Gozo’s must-try foods.

Sure, you can! It’s a 55 km walk with some road sections. I did it once – a fantastic experience. I’ll share a guide when I do it again. For shorter routes, check out my post on Gozo coastal hikes .

Late spring or early autumn are ideal. The weather’s great, and it’s quieter than in summer.

Yes, but the bus schedules aren’t frequent. There’s a hop-on-hop-off bus for major spots. But a car is the most convenient option. Check out my car rental guide for Malta .

To get from Malta to Gozo, you have two ferry options. The Ċirkewwa ferry, which takes about 30 minutes, accommodates both cars and foot passengers. Alternatively, you can opt for the Fast Ferry from Valletta, but keep in mind, it’s exclusively for those travelling on foot. For up-to-date prices and schedules, check here for the Ċirkewwa ferry and here for the Valletta ferry .

Victoria is central. For beaches, Marsalforn or Xlendi. Għarb or Nadur offer a unique Gozo charm.

No, it’s smaller, which makes exploring it easier and more intimate.

Definitely! It’s packed with family-friendly activities and safe beaches, making it enjoyable for all ages.

Gozo might be small, but it’s packed with amazing things to do. If you’re wondering what to do in Gozo, think beautiful landscapes and endless activities.

It has something for everyone, from exploring its rich history at the Ggantija Temples and Citadel to relaxing on its stunning beaches and admiring the natural beauty of places like Dwejra, Mgarr ix-Xini and the Blue Hole. 

Want a little adventure? How about booking a jeep or quad bike tour ? The best is, these tours can usually be tailored just for you, so you pick the places you want to see in Gozo. You can bounce from one site to another, seeing them all within the same day. Imagine that, huh?

You may also like

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Wow, what a comprehensive guide! I’m planning a trip to Gozo soon and this post has given me so many great ideas for things to do. The map is really helpful in visualizing the locations and I love the list of hidden gems. Can’t wait to explore this beautiful island! 😍

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Visit Gozo: Top 10 Things To Do and Best Places to Visit

The 10 best things to do in gozo (all highlights).

You’re planning to visit Gozo during your next trip to Malta ? You want to know everything about the island’s must-see attractions?

You’re at the right place!

You will for sure love Gozo, the more rural, more authentic, little sister of Malta. Here no big cities, no traffic jams, just nature and calm.

In order to help you plan your stay, I have created this guide of the 10 best things to in Gozo .

And to make it even easier for you, you can directly book all the best acitivities directly from this guide! You will see, it’s very simple: you just have to click on the orange links and green buttons you will find in this article.

In addition to the list of the best places to visit, points of interest and activities , I will give you itineraries to visit Gozo in 1, 2 or 3 days as well as my selection of the best places to stay on the island, depending on your budget.

Let’s plan your trip!

1. Victoria and the Citadella

2. dwejra and the azure window, 3. ta’pinu basilica, 4. marsalforn salt pans, 5. ramla bay and other beaches in gozo, 6. hiking in gozo, 7. ggantija temples, 8. ta’cenc cliffs, 9. diving in gozo, 10. visit comino, water sports with instructor/guide, water sports and rentals in gozo, go on a boat trip in gozo and comino, rent a boat in gozo, quad bike tour in gozo, segway tour in gozo, 1) visit gozo by tuktuk, 2) visit gozo by bus, 3) quad bike tour in gozo, 4) jeep tour in gozo, 5) discovering gozo with a private driver, renting a car, renting a scooter or a motorbike, hop-on hop-off tourist bus, opt for a guided tour, how many days to visit gozo , visit gozo in 1 day, visit gozo in 2 days, visit gozo in 3 days, where to stay in gozo, where to eat in gozo, how to get to gozo, book your trip to malta in 1 click, my impressions of gozo, gozo tourist map, you’re traveling in malta these articles will help you.

The best way to visit the island of Gozo is for sure to rent a quad bike.

It’s a lot of fun and it will allow you to discover most points of interest of the island in a day!

Personally, I rented with “Quad Bikes Gozo” . They have the best quads bikes, and with the rental, they will give you a GPS map of Gozo , with all the best places to visit. It’s really super convenient!

To make the most of your visit to Gozo and rent a quad bike , simply click on the green button below:

Or if you prefer, you can opt for a guided quad tour of Gozo, with transport from Malta included.

Visit Gozo: The 10 Best Places to Visit and Must-See Attractions

If you’re in a hurry and just want to discover and book the best activities, you can directly go to the “Best activities in Gozo” section of this guide by clicking here.

Let’s start your trip to Gozo with Victoria (also called Rabat in Maltese), the capital city located in the center of the island.

The Citadella is for sure the main attraction in Victoria . This fortified city was recently fully renovated, and offers a great 360° view over the surrounding countryside, villages, the sea and up to Malta . The view from the ramparts is really worth it!

There is no entrance fee to the Citadella, and you’ll be able to enjoy its streets freely. You can also visit the baroque Cathedral of the Assumption for a small fee.

In addition, there are several museums inside the Citadella :

• The Cathedral Museum has a nice collection of religious items used by the Church like crucifixes and chalices
• The Museum of Archeology will take you on a historical journey from the ancient civilizations living on Gozo until the time of the Order of Malta
• The Folklore Museum, to learn more about the local lifestyle and traditions
• The Nature Museum, about local nature and wildlife
• The Old Prison, where you can visit old prison cells

After visiting the Citadella, stop by Independence Square to wander through the daily market , and go to St. George’s Basilica . As the outside is entirely covered by marble, it was nicknamed the Marble Basilica. The inside is also worth a look, with some wonderful paintings on the ceiling.

Once you’re done, take a walk in the city center’s narrow streets . You’ll find there plenty of gift shops, coffee shops and restaurants.

If you’re looking for more shopping options, go the Republic street , the city’s main street. There you can find the 2 shopping malls of the island!

You will probably need a break after all this shopping. The best place for this is for sure the Villa Rundle public park . Just sit and relax, while enjoying one of the few shaded areas in Gozo .

On the North-Western part of Gozo is Dwejra , home of the Azure Window . So yes, I know, it -unfortunately- collapsed in 2017, but that doesn’t mean there is nothing left to see there!

Here is a list of other natural wonders to see in the area :

• The Fungus Rock is located at the entrance of Dwejra bay. The legend says Knights Hospitaller discovered a special kind of fungus on this rock. Believed to have incredible medicinal properties , only nobles could benefit from the fungus. It was said to cure infections, dysentery, ulcers and more. Such a precious plant had to be protected, so access to the rock was restricted and even watched by a guard ! Later on, modern medicine showed that the plant wasn’t in fact that incredible…
• The Inland Sea is a seawater lagoon linked to the sea by a 80 meters long tunnel going under high cliffs. It’s the perfect spot to go swimming with children , as the water is calm and warmer than in other places.
• The Blue Hole is a famous diving site in Gozo. You dive in the hole and then reach the sea through a 7 meters underwater arch . I will tell you more about this place below, in the scuba diving section.

Voyage Tips - Anecdote For the TV junkies out there, Some scenes from Game of Thrones season 1 were shot here!

Not far from Dwejra bay, you can find another must see attraction in Gozo: Ta’Pinu Basilica.

There’s no place like it! This impressive construction is located in the middle of nowhere, lost in an ocean of hills with the sea in background. The esplanade with its mosaic and statutes combined with the landscape around is perfect for a great souvenir photo!

The basilica is also an important pilgrimage site for Maltese people . It all started in 1883, when a woman from the village heard the voice of the Virgin Mary coming from what was then just a chapel. Several miracles followed, so the villagers decided to build a bigger church to honor the Virgin Mary .

Ta’Pinu Basilica was completed in 1931. Both Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI came there to pray. You can also see the original chapel, located just behind the basilica.

Even if simpler than other Maltese churches, the inside of Ta’Pinu Basilica is a pure architectural masterpiece . The marble canopy, mosaics, stained-glass windows and stunning Maltese stone sculptures are definitely worth a look.

You’ll also be able to visit the ex-voto gallery: all the letters, portraits and various objects left by people to honor the Virgin Mary miracles are kept there.

In addition to the visit of this architectural masterpiece, you can enjoy a short walk with a marked path in front of the basilica . It features numerous statutes along the way symbolizing the Stations of the Cross .

Once you have reached the top of a hill, you can enjoy the amazing view over Gozo and its surroundings.

Marsalforn salt pans is my favorite spot in Gozo, I highly recommend adding it to your itinerary.

To reach the salt pans, you’ll have to pass by Marsalforn. During summertime, this is a top beach town destination for both locals and tourists. Let’s be honest, I don’t personally find this city very interesting: there are nicer places in Gozo to swim or stay at!

However, if you keep going West of Marsalforn you’ll reach the 350 years old salt pans . It’s a wonderful promenade area spreading over 3km.

The salt pans are still exploited today by several families, specifically between May and September, when salt is harvested. During high season, you can purchase some from vendors on the side of the road.

Voyage Tips - Advice If you keep walking West along the salt pans, you’ll reach Wied II Gashri , a small cove in between cliffs.

Ramla Bay is the largest and most beautiful sandy beach in Gozo thanks to its red sand . Some people even consider it’s the best beach in Malta! No need to say it’s quite crowded during summer.

It’s very easy to get there, you can park next to the beach on the free parking. In addition, water’s depth is very gradual and it’s guarded, making it the perfect beach if you have children.

The beach also has various amenities: a restaurant, a coffe shop, ice-cream vendors and public bathrooms. You can also rent sunbeds and umbrellas.

However, if you’re looking for less touristy options, I recommend you these 3 beaches in Gozo:

• San Blas Bay : a small bay located close to Nadur village. It’s a lovely spot with ocher sand and big rocks. Water is shallow and very clear . You can only access it on foot. Beware of the way back, it’s quite tough!
• Dahlet Qorrot : also close to Nadur, Dahlet Qorrot is at pebbles beach, very popular among locals.
• Hondoq Ir Rummien : a small beach in front of Comino . You can reach it from Qala village.

Gozo is a great place to hike . There are several paths along the coast, almost all around the island . They’re pretty easy hiking trails, totally suitable for beginners.

Some parts, especially along the cliffs, can be a bit dangerous though, so always be careful. Don’t forget to wear hiking or comfortable shoes as you’ll probably walk through rocky areas.

The best hiking season is from fall to spring , when the hills are green and flowers are blooming. Avoid July and August because it’s too hot, there is no shade and the landscape is pretty dry.

Paths aren’t marked so I recommend getting the 10 detailed hikingtrails books collection . You can download them here for free (PDF format).

You’ll also find the Gozo Coastal Walk PDF: it suggests an itinerary around Gozo via the coastal paths, with all the information you may need to plan your hikes (distance, duration, difficulty level).

To discover the most beautiful secret sights of Gozo, you should opt for a hike with a local guide.

Paul, your guide, will show you his favorite places while telling you more about the local culture. He is super friendly, so you will for sure have an amazing day!

To book it, it’s simple, you just have to click on the button below, you will have the choice between:

• 2h hike in Gozo
• Full day hike in Gozo

Ggantija megalithic temple complex is located in Xaghra , East of Victoria. This Unesco World Heritage site is older than the Egyptian pyramids and Stonehenge!

“Ggantija” means “giant” in Maltese. Gozitan people were conviced that only giants could have been able to carry and put together such massive rocks. Some of them weigh more than 5 tons and are 5 meters long.

Even today, no one really knows for sure how did the rocks get there , so I’m inclined to believe the giants theory, it’s the coolest one!

The site is made of 2 temples : the South and the North one. Both form a vast 40 meters long and 6 meters high complex. It’s the biggest megalithic complex you’ll find in Malta.

There is also a small museum with additional information about the site and artefacts found there.

You’re going to Gozo?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Gozo on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Gozo.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Gozo, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Gozo!

Ta’Cenc cliffs are located South of Victoria, in Sannat.

As it’s not very easy to find, let me tell you the best way to get there:

• First, go to Sannat Square
• Then, f ollow the signs to Ta’Cenc Hotel .
• From there, take the road on the left of the entrance to get to the edge of Ta’Cenc Cliffs.

You’ll find on the right a nice walking path along the cliffs, 130 meters above sea level . It’s quite impressive! Definitely one of the best places to visit in Gozo during your holidays.

You should go to Ta’Cenc cliffs around sunset time, it’s amazing.

Thanks to its reefs and caves, Gozo is a renowned island for scuba diving . Diving conditions are optimal all year long, with a generally calm sea, crystal clear and warm water. With many diving options, Gozo is great both for beginners and experienced divers.

The best diving sites in Gozo :

• Blue Hole : go deep underwater via a big vertical chimney and reach the sea by passing under a arch. There is also a large cave. Suitable for all levels.
• Crocodile Rock : is home to a lot of fish species. groupers, tunas and barracudas. Suitable for all levels.
• Fungus Rock : not much sea life there but a beautiful landscape with a cave, gullys and vertical walls. Suitable for all levels.
• Inland Sea : a 80 meters long underwater tunnel.
• Reqqa Point : the top of the reef is home to groupers, scorpion fish and the Shrimps Cave. Suitable for all levels.
• Fessej Rock : ideal for deep-sea diving
• Wreck of the MV Karwela : this ferry was sunk for diving purposes
• San Dimitri Point : good chances of seeing huge shoals of fish there
• Wied Il Gashri , the best place to sea seahorses
• Double Arch Reef : a rock cut into 2 arches, where you can see cuttlefish, octopus and sea urchins.

If you have never dived, you should really do a try dive in Gozo! It’s only 60 euros at the best diving school of the island.

To book it, you just have to click the button below:

And if you’re motivated to learn diving, you can opt for a 4 days PADI Open Water course. You can book it by clicking here .

If you already have some diving experience and want to discover Gozo’s best diving sites, the 2 following options are the perfect choices you: “day – 2 dives” (click here) and “2 days – 4 dives” (click there) .

During your dives, you will discover amazing sites such as the famous “Blue Hole” or Mv Karwela ferry shipwreck with a professional instructor.

From Gozo , you should also go to Comino , malta’s smallest populated island , with only 4 all year long inhabitants.

The main attraction in Comino is the Blue Lagoon . This beautiful turquoise water lagoon is a great place to swim, however it’s really crowded during summertime.

There, you can find a few food trucks for your lunch, along with public bathrooms and one hotel . The hotel is a bit further away from the Blue Lagoon: it’s located next to Santa Maria bay , a quieter sandy beach. A very lovely spot!

The island is so small that everything is reachable on foot . For example, you can go up Saint Mary’s tower and enjoy the view. Quick tip : You can visit the tower only if the flag is raised.

As a lot of tourists are visiting Comino each day, I strongly recommend you to buy your boat tickets in advance.

There are several ways to go to Comino, simply click on the orange links to book the one that suits you the best.

1) Boat trip to the Blue Lagoon: the classic day trip to the Blue Lagoon, they can organize the transportation from most cities of Malta of you after booking for an extra fee.

2) Catamaran boat trip to the Blue Lagoon: same as above, but on a huge Catamaran! A great choice for a nice day at sea. Same as above, transport can be organized after booking.

3) Sailboat trip to the Blue Lagoon and other bays: want to discover more than just the Blue Lagoon? Choose this one! Snacks, wine and lunch + Free transportation from Malta included.

4) Private VIP boat trip to Comino and Gozo (3h): Simply the best private boat tour to Comino and the Blue Lagoon. Josef, your skipper, will make sure you will have an amazing moment at sea.

During your boat trip, you will stop at the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon for a swim (snorkeling equipment included!) and visit the beautiful Comino sea caves.

In addition to the half day boat trip, Josef also offers a full day boat tour (6h).

And you know the best?

It’s actually not much more expensive than the 3h30 boat trip , so if you have time to spend a full day at sea, you should opt for this one!

As Josef is doing only 1 boat trip per day, you should really book your full day private boat trip to Comino in advance by clicking on the button below:

5) Private boat trip to the Blue Lagoon from Valletta: You can also do a private boat trip to Comino Blue Lagoon from Valletta ! It’s a great was to discover the capital and Malta’s coast line from the sea.

6) Private sailboat trip to Comino Blue Lagoon: Same as above, but on a sailboat with skipper! As it’s also a privat tour, you will decide of the day’s program. Enjoy!😎

And if you don’t want to do a boat trip, you can also take the boat shuttle from Marfa or Cirkewwa (in the North of Malta) to Comino.

7) Josef’s private boat trip to the Blue Lagoon can also start from Gozo.

You will have the choice between 2 boat trips (simply click on the links to book them)

• A 3h private boat trip to Comino Blue Lagoon and Gozo
• A full day pivate boat trip to Comino Blue Lagoon and Gozo (my reccomandation!)

8) Take the boat from Mgarr harbour.

9) Take the speed boat from Hondoq Ir Rummien (high season only). You will discover the magnificent Hondoq bay and its small beach. From there you can also enjoy amazing nautical activities! Book your ticket now here.

From Hondoq, in addition to the direct Comino transfer, you can also opt for a “Comino shuttle + Santa Maria caves” visit. It’s the perfect way to discover these beautiful sea caves and the coast of Comino! Simply click here to book it .

All the ways to go Comino I have just mentioned are detailed in my other article: How to visit Comino and the Blue Lagoon?

The best water sports in Gozo and Comino

You like water sports? Well, in Gozo, you will for sure find a lot to enjoy!

Let’s start with the list of the best water sports with instructor/guide, and then I tell you everything about all the activities and rentals you can find on the island.

As always, you will just have to click on the orange links or green buttons to book them. It’s very convenient!

Stand Up Paddle

For Stand up Paddle (SUP), the best tours are organized by Mamo and Pier. Same as for the kayak, it doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or if you have already tried SUP, you will enjoy it a lot!

• SUP Guided Tour 3h
• SUP Guided Tour 3h at sunset

And if you’re looking for the ultimate paddle experience in Gozo , you should really opt for their “Day and Night Experience”.

You will start with a 3 hours SUP tour at the end of the day , from Hondoq bay. Your guide will take you to a secret beach to do a BBQ, a bonfire and camp for the night!

The next day, you will return to Hondoq bay on your stand up paddle at sunset.

It’s a unique experience you should try at least once in your life!

You will need to click there to book it:

Subwing is the new trending water sport!

Discover how it feels to “fly” underwater with this new activity. Once you will have seen the video below, no doubt you will want to book your tour 😊 (like I did!)

To book it, you just have to click on the link below:

Jet Ski Safari

And why not enjoy a Jetski ride while you’re in Gozo?

You can do 1h Jetski guided tour , in one of the most beautiful place in Malta: the south of Gozo island, near Comino!

Snorkeling in Gozo

While you’re in Gozo, you should really go snorkeling!

The best way to enjoy it is to book a snorkeling tour with Sam (the same local guide who also does the hiking and Segway tours). He is really friendly and knows all the secret spots of the island!

To book your snorkeling tour, simply click on the button below:

If it’s not available, you can also choose this snorkeling tour which is just as good by clicking on the following link: Snorkelling trip around Gozo of 2h30.

In addition to the guided tours i mentionned above, you can rent jetskis, kayaks, stand up paddles etc… and enjoy other activities such as tubing, parasailing and more!

And the best is that you will enjoy these activities in Malta’s most beautiful place: south of Gozo island, near Comino!

To make everything simple for you, here is the list of all the water sports you can do in Gozo. Simply click on the activity name to book it.

You want to discover Malta from the sea? Then, the best is to go on a boat trip around the most beautiful parts of the coast!

These are private tours (there will be only your group) and everything is included in the price (the boat skipper too, of course!)

Here are the best boat tours from Gozo.

As always, simply click on the tour name to book it at the best price:

You want to rent a boat to explore Gozo and Comino? You can do that too!

In Malta, the great thing is that you can rent a boat up to 90HP without boat license.

For those who have a boat licence, there are also boats with over 90HP.

To hire a boat in Gozo, you just need to call me at +356 7920 1451 (phone or WhatsApp).

The best land activities to do in Gozo

There are many ways to discover the most beautiful sights of Gozo while having fun.

So here are the best activities to do on the island for a memorable stay!

And as always, it’s easy, just click on the buttons and links to book the activities.

A quad bike tour is the perfect way to discover Gozo while doing a fun activity! It’s also not very expensive compared to other places in Europe.

• Quad bike tour from Malta

You can choose between 2 excursions (morning departure, or early afternoon departure, to enjoy the sunset). In both cases, you can start from Malta or Gozo, as you wish!

During your quad bike guided visit of Gozo, you will discover some of the best places to visit of the island such as Ramla bay, Dwejra (where the famous Azure Window used to stand), the Inland Sea, the Blue Hole or Marsalforn Salt Pans.

There is no previous quad biking experience needed, your instructor/guide will teach you the basics and will adapt to your driving pace.

And you know the best? This day trip also includes the return from Gozo with a private boat! You will pass by the Blue Lagoon and Comino caves.

These guided quad tours are so good, I’ve contacted the provider to offer you a discount code .

Only voyagetips readers are entitled to it, and it’s only available for the first 50 bookings made in 2024.

So don’t wait, and when you book, try entering the coupon code “tips5” for an instant 5% discount! 😎

You need to book your full day quad bike tour (lunch + boat trip from Malta included) by clicking here:

If you prefer to enjoy the sunset in Gozo , you should rather book this version of the tour (click here to book) .

Available from May 15 to October 15 , it’s exactly the same as the tour mentioned above, just you start in the early afternoon and dinner is included!

And if there’s no more availability for the guided tour and quad rental , you can see if the other provider who organizes guided tours of Gozo has any availability (click here)

You will find more info about the quad bike tours in Malta in my detailed article: Quad bikes in Malta/Gozo: the definitive guide.

An all road Segway tour is also a great way to visit Gozo.

It will show you the best natural sights of Gozo such as Marsalforn salt pans, Ta’Cenc cliffs or even super secret places!

You will see, a Segway tour is really the perfect family activity to do in Gozo.

Visiting Gozo with a full day trip (From Malta or Gozo)

If you didn’t rent a car or prefer to visit Gozo with a guide, you can opt for an organized day trip.

The great thing is that they all offer a departure from Malta or Gozo!

Here are the 5 options you have for your guided visit of Gozo:

The Tuktuk guided tour of Gozo follows the exact same itinerary as the quad bike tour I mentioned earlier.

Departing from Malta (or Gozo, of course, if you’re already there), it allows you to discover the best of Gozo in one day !

Everything is included in the price: transport, guide and lunch.

And good news: the discount code “tips5” is also available for the 2 tuktuk excursions below , as they are operated by the same company as the quads!

• Guided tour of Gozo by Tuktuk (an excellent option!)
• Guided tour of Gozo by Tuktuk + sunset – available from May 15 to October 15 only.

Let’s start with the classic day tour: Gozo by bus.

The bus will pick you up in the morning at your hotel in Malta and will then take you to Gozo.

During the day, you will discover the best places to visit of the island, such at the Citadella, Dwejra bay ( where the inland sea and the “blue hole” are located) or even the stunning Ta’Pinu basilica.

I told you a bit before about these quad bike tours, but as they can also be done from Malta, I am putting them again in this section:

If you want to visit Gozo in 1 day while having a lot of fun , you can opt for this quad bike full day trip!

And you know the best? The lunch + a private boat trip back to Malta are also included!

To book it, simply click here:

If quad bike isn’t your thing, you should maybe opt for a Jeep full day tour . Similarly to the quad bike tour, this one also includes the lunch and boat trip to Malta .

It’s extremely popular, so you really need to book it in advance!

This Jeep tour also exists in “private” version: the jeep will be just for your group, not shared with other people! You need to click there to book it:

If you don’t want to rent a car but still want to discover the best of Gozo in 1 day , you can also hire a private driver.

The best tours are organized by Darren, from Gozo Taxi Service. He will be very happy to create you an unforgettable tour!

During your day, you will visit most of the sights I talk about in this article, including Victoria town, the Citadella and Ggantija temples.

Darren offers several tours, depending on what you want to visit. Simply click on the orange links to book them:

• Private tour of Gozo: 1/2 day
• Private guided tour of Gozo: all day
• Private guided tour of Gozo: all day with boat trip!
• Private night tour of Gozo

How to get around Gozo?

Gozo is a very small island (it takes around 30 minutes by car to go from one side to the other), so you will have a few options to get from one point of interest to the other.

Here are the 5 ways to get around Gozo:

A car is for sure the fastest way to go from one place to the other on the island. Moreover, there are no traffic jam in Gozo!

However, you should drive carefully as roads aren’t in very good conditions.

To compare rental cars prices in Gozo and Malta, simply click the button below:

If you don’t want to rent a car, you can opt for a scooter or a motorbike. You should really book it in advance, because there aren’t many available!

The best place to rent a scooter/motorbike is Charlotte’s garage. It’s simply the best scooter rental agency on the island.

And you know the best? She can deliver your scooter or motorbike to your hotel in Gozo or at the harbor, so you can get it directly when arriving in Gozo with the ferry!

If you want, she can also deliver your vehicle at Cirkewwa harbor, in Malta. This would allow you to get a scooter/motorbike from a reliable company for your stay on the main island!

In any case, simply choose where you want your vehicle to be delivered at the time of booking:

In Gozo, the main villages and points of interests can be reached by bus.

However, you will very often need to get back to Victoria (Gozo’s capital) to change bus line, so you will waste a lot of time. In addition, I prefer to warn you: buses aren’t always on time and are often full during high season!

The Hop-on Hop-off tourist bus is a good option if you don’t have much time and don’t want to drive. These buses are stopping at all the best sights of the island.

You can get out of the bus (and back inside!) when you want, so it’s really convenient to visit only the places you’re interested in.

As I told you earlier, you can also visit Gozo with an organized day tour.

Departures are from both Malta and Gozo (your choice!), so it’s very convenient. You can go to the guided visit section of this guide by clicking here.

At least 2 days are needed to get around Gozo. And if you want to really explore the island, you should stay there 3 full days.

Follow my itineraries below to make the most out of your stay!

Here is the best way to visit Gozo in one day:

• Explore Victora and the Citadella
• Lunch break
• Head to the Dwerja to see the Azure Window area, Fungus Rock, Inland Sea et the Blue Hole
• Visit the impressive Ta’Pinu Basilica
• Take a walk on the Stations of the Cross in front of the basilica and enjoy the 360° view over Gozo

For 2 days in Gozo , refer to my 1 day guide above and add for the 2nd day:

• A nice walk along the salt pans in Marsalforn
• Explore Wied Il Gashri cove
• Go for a swim in Ramla Bay , the most beautiful sandy beach in Malta. You can also go to San Blas bay , a smaller but equally enjoyable beach
• Watch the sunset at Ta’Cenc cliffs

If you plan to spend 3 days in Gozo , do the following for your 3rd day on the island:

• Spend the morning in Comino and go to the Blue Lagoon
• In the afternoon, enjoy some relaxing beach time or go for a hike on one of the many hiking trails on the island .
• Guesthouse Bambina : Guesthouse located in Xaghra, 10min walking from the beach. Modern with a zen vibe double room starting from 75€/night. Best features: amazing house with a swimming pool and a great view over Gozo, friendly staff, direct access to the beach, very good value. A great choice in Gozo for its excellent value for money.
• Casa Gemelli Boutique Guesthouse : Charming hotel located in Victoria, the capital of Gozo. Fully renovated double room starting from 90€/night, breakfast included. Decoration is a mix of modern and traditional. Best features: central location, close to all the bus stops, homemade breakfast, friendly and helpful staff.
• The Duke Boutique Hostel : Located in the center of Victoria. Very spacious and comfortable double room starting from 100€/night, breakfast included. Best features: location, great bedding, rooftop terrace view, great breakfast with many options, great staff, some rooms have a hot tub on the balcony.
• Kempiski Hôtel San Lawrenz: Luxury hotel located in San Lawrenz, close to Inland Sea ad Ta’Pinu Basilica. Spacious and modern double room with balcony starting from 130€/night. Breakfast for an additional 25€. Best features: amazing view, huge swimming pools, indoor pool, free parking lot, outstanding breakfast, nice spa. It’s simply the best hotel in Gozo .

And if you prefer to stay in an apartment during trip to Gozo, you should book at The Holiday Hub Gozo.

Located in a typical Maltese building, this modern fully equipped penthouse features 3 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms and can comfortably host up to 6 people.

It’s the perfect accommodation for a trip with your friends or your family!

It also features 2 large terraces (75m²), ideal to enjoy a breakfast outside or an aperitif.

Last but not least: you will also have access to the 150m² rooftop featuring a Jacuzzi (hot tub), plunge pool and BBQ.

A great way to relax after a good day of sightseeing!

Strong points: the calm, the perfect location to visit Gozo, the rooftop and its superb view + the really friendly owners.

Our favorite in Gozo, you should book it really in advance!

To book your stay at The Holiday Hub, simply click the button below:

• Mekren Bakery : located in Nadur, this bakery is famous for its pizzas and ftiras (Maltese pizza). We tried the Maltese sausage and Gozo goat cheese ftira, so yummy! One ftira costs between 5€ and 8€ and can feed up to 4 people. They only do takeway. Don’t look for a real store, you order directly in the bakehouse.
• Country Terrace : located in Mgarr, above the port. The terrace has a great view over Comino and Malta. The best dishes are the fish dishes (very fresh) and the wine is very good. Good portions at affordable prices.
• Oleander : Located in Xaghra, right in front of the church. The restaurants offers tasty local cuisine, made with fresh produce. Dishes are generous and well presented. Excellent value for money.

To get to Gozo, it’s very simple, you have 2 options:

1) Take the ferry from Cirkewwa (north of Malta) to Gozo

From Malta, you need to go to Cirkewwa harbour, at the very North of the island . Gozo ferry departs from there!

You can go there with your rental car and bring it to Gozo in the ferry (it’s allowed). And if you don’t have a car, bus X1 from the airport goes to Cirkewwa.

As the bus isn’t very fast (it takes around 1h30 with a lot of detours and stops), your other option is to take a taxi. In that case, you should contact Darren, from Gozo Taxi Service . It’s simply the best taxi service of the island!

• From the airport to the ferry: 30 to 40 minutes for 30€
• From the airport to your hotel in Gozo: 55€

The driver will be waiting for you at the arrival hall , with your name on a sign. Get in the car, and he will take you to the ferry pier.

To book it, you just have to click here:

Once you get to the ferry pier, just go with the flow. Boarding is very fast and well organized (as is getting off in Gozo). You don’t have to pay anything on the way to Gozo. You’ll only pay for the trip on your way back.

It costs 20€ for 2 people and 1 vehicle . The price for just one person is around 5€.

The ferry leaves every 30min and the trip takes about 20min . Go on the deck to enjoy the view!

Inside the ferry, you’ll find a cafetaria and a shop selling magazines and souvenirs. There’s also free wifi and bathrooms on board.

Once you arrive in Gozo, don’t wait to get to your car as you might get in the way of other cars trying to get out.

2) Take the fast ferry from Vallette to Gozo

The ferry departs from Valletta Grand Harbor and will take you to Gozo in 45 minutes.

This boat only takes passengers and no cars. You will disembark at the same place as the other ferry, at Gozo Mgarr harbor.

For prices and schedules, you can find all the information on the official website.

In this guide, I gave you all my best tips to plan your trip to Malta by yourself.

To make your life even easier, I am now offering you to book your trip to Malta in 1 click on “Autotour by Voyage Tips”!

No need to worry about organization: Hotels, car rental and activities , everything will be booked by our team of travel professionals who will create a personalized roadbook for you!

To book your tour to Malta and Gozo now, it’s very simple:

• Select the duration of your trip by clicking here or on the button below
• Select the hotel category of your choice on the tour page (budget, premium or luxury)
• Choose your other options and book your trip in 1 click!

You will see, organizing your trip has never been so easy 😎

I loved Gozo island because of its rural and authentic vibe . It’s also very peaceful and locals are friendly, a real no-stress zone.

Nature is pretty untouched and really stunning . My personal favorites are the salt pans in Marsalforn and Dwerja bay, where Fungus Rock and Azure Window (RIP) are located.

It’s also a great destination if, like me, you enjoy hiking along the sea.

To help you get a better idea of where are the best places to visit in Gozo, I have made a tourist map of Gozo . You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button, the one with a little arrow on it.

And you, what do you plan to visit in Gozo?

Malta travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Malta guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Malta guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Malta : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Malta are listed there.

The 20 Best Things to Do in Malta : The ultimate bucket list!

• Itinerary: 2-3 Days in Malta – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions!
• Itinerary: 4-5 Days in Malta – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions!
• Itinerary: 1 Week in Malta – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions!
• Itinerary: 10 Days in Malta – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions!
• Valletta: The 10 best things to do

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Things to do in Gozo: Top 10 must-sees

Embark on a journey to discover the highlights of Gozo, a serene island nestled within the Maltese archipelago. Despite being smaller and quieter than its neighboring Malta, Gozo boasts a rich cultural heritage and a tranquil way of life deeply rooted in tradition. With just a short 25-minute ferry ride from Malta, you can escape to Gozo and immerse yourself in its picturesque villages, rugged landscapes, and pristine coastline.

#1 Victoria, the capital of Gozo

Discover Victoria, the vibrant capital of Gozo , nestled at the heart of the island and perched atop its highest point. Offering spellbinding panoramic vistas from the Citadel, Victoria enchants visitors with its lush valleys, gentle hills, and the shimmering Mediterranean Sea in the distance. Formerly known as Rabat, this historic city boasts a storied past dating back to 700 BC, when it was founded by the Phoenicians. As one of the oldest inhabited areas in the Maltese archipelago, Victoria is brimming with captivating sites of historical and cultural significance.

Cathedral of the Assumption of Gozo

The cathedral is dedicated to the Assumption of Mary and has been the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Gozo since 1864. It features stunning architecture and religious significance.

The Archaeological Museum

Housed in a 17th-century noble residence that was originally known as Casa Bondi., this museum traces the cultural history of Gozo from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages.

The Natural Science Museum

This museum showcases Gozo’s flora, fauna, minerals, endemic species, and marine life. It also displays fossils, including fragments of elephant and hippopotamus bones from the glacial period. Notably, it houses a stone from the Apollo II lunar landing in 1969 and served as a World War II shelter.

The Gran Castello Historic House or Folklore Museum

Located in interconnected houses once owned by noble families, this museum houses a collection of traditional agricultural tools, blacksmithing equipment, mills, and woodworking tools, offering insights into the past life of Victoria.

Ancient Prisons

These 16th-century buildings, used by the Knights of the Order until the 19th century, now serve as a historical exhibit. They feature prisoner graffiti, messages, and crosses, offering a glimpse into the island’s history.

#2 Ta ‘Pinu Basilica

The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta’ Pinu stands as a beacon of faith and hope in Gozo, Malta. Famed for its numerous reported miracles and answered prayers, the basilica has earned a revered status as a sanctuary of healing and solace. This sacred site attracts countless pilgrims who, moved by gratitude for prayers answered or blessings received, leave behind ex-voto offerings. These offerings, ranging from personal photographs to heartfelt letters and various personal items, form a poignant collection that is displayed in the basilica’s museum.

#3 Wied il-Mielaħ Window and The Azure Window

Once a famous landmark in Gozo, the Azure Window collapsed in 2017 due to natural erosion. In its absence, the Wied il-Mielaħ Window has gained prominence. Located in north-west Gozo, near Gharb, the Wied il-Mielaħ Window is an impressive natural limestone arch. Shaped over centuries by wind and sea, it is an outstanding example of geological art.

#4 Dwejra Bay

Dwejra Bay, once famous for the Azure Window , still offers interesting attractions worth exploring:

Dwejra Inland Sea

A peaceful lagoon connected to the Mediterranean Sea by a cliffside tunnel . Its tranquil waters are perfect for swimming, diving, and snorkeling, offering a unique aquatic experience.

Dwejra Tower

A notable visitor attraction, stands as one of Gozo’s four remaining coastal watchtowers, alongside Xlendi Tower , Mġarr ix-Xini Tower , and Isopu Tower . Historically, these towers communicated with each other and nearby fortifications using fire and smoke signals, by night and day respectively. Open to the public without charge, the Tour de Dwejra offers an intriguing glimpse into Gozo’s historical coastal defenses.

Fungus Rock

The Fungus Rock a 60-meter high islet is known for the historically significant Maltese Fungus (Cynomorium coccineum), a parasitic plant esteemed for its believed healing properties by the Knights of St John.

Dwejra’s Blue Hole is probably the most famous dive site in Gozo , known for its spectacular underwater landscape of rock formations, arches and underwater caves teeming with marine life. Access to the Blue Hole can be tricky, with slippery and sometimes sharp rocks. Be sure to wear water shoes to avoid injury.

#5 Ramla Bay

Ramla Bay , distinguished by its unique orange-tinged sand, stands as a captivating beach destination on Gozo. As the island’s largest sandy beach , it offers easy access via public transport, car, or a pleasant walk. Visitors can enjoy a range of amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, and a variety of cafes and kiosks, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable beach experience.

Two main attractions near Ramla Bay are the Calypso Cave , known from Homer’s Odyssey, and the Tal-Mixta Cave , famous for its stunning views of the bay and its distinctive red sand. Both locations are excellent for photography enthusiasts, providing unique perspectives of the bay.

#6 Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs (Sanap Cliffs)

The Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs, also known as Sanap Cliffs , are situated on the southern coast of Gozo. They rise dramatically from the Mediterranean Sea, forming one of the highest points on the island. The cliffs are characterized by their sheer drop, some places reaching up to 140 meters above sea level .

The cliffs are a popular spot for walking and hiking. The area offers numerous trails that provide stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. The walks along the cliff edge, while breathtaking, should be undertaken with caution due to the sheer drop. Additionally, the cliffs provide a romantic setting, making them an ideal spot to catch a mesmerizing sunset .

#7 Ġgantija Temples

The Ġgantija site contains two Neolithic temples , dating back nearly 5,000 years before Christ. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Ġgantija Temples are considered to be among the oldest free-standing structures in the world. They date back to approximately 3600-3200 BC , making them older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. This antiquity places them in the Neolithic period, also known as the New Stone Age.

The name “Ggantija” comes from Maltese, meaning “giant’s tower,” reflecting the local legend that giants built the temples. The site consists of two temple complexes, Ggantija South and Ggantija North , both enclosed within massive boundary walls. The temples were built using large limestone blocks, some of which weigh over 50 tons, making them among the heaviest megaliths ever used in construction.

Located on the Xagħra plateau , the temple complex showcases the clever building skills of ancient people. The temples are mainly made from Coralline Limestone , a tough stone that lasts a long time. For parts inside like doorways and altars, they used a softer stone called Globigerina Limestone. Well-kept plaster pieces, colored with red ochre and displayed at the site’s Interpretation Centre , show that the original builders decorated the inside walls with paint.

#8 Wied il-Għasri

The valley begins at Ta’ Dbieġi Hill before winding down through the village of l-Għasri, and on between iż-Żebbuġ and Ta’ Ġurdan Hill to meet the sea between impressive cliffs.

Wied il-Ghasri is a popular destination for divers and snorkellers, attracted by its famous underwater caves, in particular the famous Cathedral Cave also known as Blue Dome, located between Reqqa Point and Forna Point. This area is famous not only for its unique underwater structures, but also for the rich marine life that inhabits its waters, making it a great place to discover if you enjoy diving.

#9 The Saltpans of Xwejni

On Gozo’s north coast, just beyond Qbajjar Bay west of Marsalforn , you’ll find a unique sight: a mosaic of rock-cut salt pans extending into the sea. These 350-year-old salt pans, spanning about 3km along the coast, are not just picturesque; they are part of a centuries-old Gozitan tradition of sea-salt production, handed down through generations within specific families. The salt pans are a testament to Gozo’s rich cultural heritage.

#10 Marsalforn

Marsalforn is well known for its array of restaurants and eateries along the seafront, where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Maltese dishes. It’s a great place to relax and even sunbathe on the small beach. Don’t miss trying the local Maltese food at the restaurants.

Home » Gozo Island » Things to do in Gozo

Things to do in Gozo: 25+ Ideas for your Trip

So you’ve decided to pay Malta’s sister island a visit and wondering about things to do in Gozo?

You’ve come to the right place: In this article, I’ll help you prepare a fun plan for what to see and do on your visit to the island.

As a tourist-turned-expat and a lifelong Gozo fan, I know the island inside out and lined up the best things to do and places to visit to help you have a great time on your trip.

What is there to do in Gozo Malta?

Located just a short ferry ride away from Malta Island, the island of Gozo is small and quiet and has something magical about it that’s worth exploring. Discover its hidden valleys, sandy beaches and creeks and unlock secrets covered with crystal-clear waters. Wander through the narrow old-town roads to admire traditional Maltese architecture and local life.

Trek, run or drive along scenic pathways that run alongside sheer wild cliffs, rugged coastlines with ancient salt pans and mysterious caves.

Travel back in time inside the oldest standing temple in the Mediterranean that legend says was built by giants, admire the richly decorated churches, or search for fabulous stories from the island’s past in one of the museums in the ages-old Citadel .

You’ll find that despite its size, Gozo offers plenty of activities, whether you’re young or old. From horse riding to wine tasting, from cave hunting to diving excursions, museum visits, or just a relaxing morning by the beach, there’s something for everyone.

Let’s get into my list of recommendations to visit Gozo, starting with my top 10!

Looking to sightsee in Gozo? Check out the chauffeured Tuk-Tuk tours and self-drive tours by  Quad bike at Yippee for a fun day out in Gozo!

Use coupon code MALTA5 and get 5% off!

My top 10 things to do in Gozo

1) take a day trip through gozo.

If you’re visiting Gozo for the first time and want to get a taste of what the island has to offer, there are a few of the best options to spend a day exploring!

A) Gozo Tours with Yippee

A Tuk Tuk tour by Yippee that takes you around Gozo’s landmarks, including Sanap Cliffs in Munxar, Xlendi Bay, Ramla Bay, Ta’ Pinu Basilica and more. You’ll also taste the flavours of Gozo with a homemade lunch included in the price. Departing from Mġarr Ferry Terminal in Gozo at 10:30 and back at 16:30, this guided tour is an excellent option for couples or even groups of up to 6 people per Gozo Tuk Tuk .

Prefer a tour where you can drive your own vehicle (and offroad, too)? Yippee also rents out Quad Bikes (more info: Quad biking tours )! Lots of fun, reasonably priced and a great way to get a good taste of the beauty of Gozo.

B) Take a private full-day tour

If you want to explore Gozo with a private guide, this full-day island tour is for you. From the comfort of a private vehicle with a drive, you’ll visit majestic cliffs and picturesque bays, megalithic temples, and ancient villages.

Looking for other options? Here are my Top 10 Gozo day trips .

C) Use the hop-on-hop-off bus

If you want a convenient and cheap way of getting around to explore Gozo on a day, there’s a hop-on-hop-off bus service that takes you to most of the sightseeing hotspots around the island. With regular stops and guided audio commentary, it’s a convenient service, and with the iSeeMalta Gozo Pass , you also get access to the hop-on-hop-off ferry that allows you to combine a day trip to Gozo with other stops around Malta.

D) DIY: Rent a car

Driving in Gozo is pretty easy, and it’s hard to get lost, being small and relatively quiet. So, if you’re a confident driver and up for a little drive around, this is a great way to do some sightseeing in Gozo DIY-style.

You can either hire a car in Malta and take it with you onto the Gozo ferry that sails from Ċirkewwa (at the northernmost point of Malta) to Gozo Island, or you can rent a car in Gozo .

2) Explore Victoria’s Citadel and old town

This is one of my favourite things to do in Gozo: roaming around and about the ancient medieval fortified Citadel in Victoria . There’s plenty to see and do here that gives you a taste of Gozitan history. Although much smaller than the other bastion town in Malta, Mdina , it’s an intriguing place to visit, even if you’re not a history buff.

Take in the breath-taking view from the bastions of the whole island, savour local food and drinks in one of the many lovely places inside the Citadel’s walls, and visit the following museums:

• The Cittadella Visitors’ Centre is located at the top of the road leading up to the Citadel’s main gate. It’s well worth visiting this museum to get interesting background information on the history of the place, how it served the local population, alterations made over time and a lot more. It won’t take up much time and makes for a good primer before you enter the town. A combination ticket from Heritage Malta also gives you access to the following museums in this list.
• The Museum of Archaeology – featuring artefacts covering an extensive period, from the earliest cultures of Gozo up to the arrival of the Knights of St John
• Gran Castello Historic House – a medieval house hosting exhibits illustrating domestic, rural and traditional ways of Gozitan life .
• The Nature Museum – focuses on the natural history of the island , its natural resources and their use by the island’s inhabitants.
• The Old Prison – a 16th-century prison known for holding some notable prisoners, including a young Jean Parisot de Valette, the Grand Master of the Knights himself.
• Not included in the Heritage Malta combo ticket, The Cathedral Museum – an imposing 13th-century Roman-Catholic church dedicated to the Assumption of Mary – boasts a large collection of centuries-old religious artefacts and art.

A few hours in Independence Square

Right in the heart of Victoria, just outside the old Citadel, you’ll find the small but cute Independence Square. Known by locals as ‘i t-Tokk ’, this nice little space is perfect for a few hours of relaxation.

At the square, you can find the daily open market if you want to have a little browse around or grab a table under one of the umbrellas between the trees to have a coffee or light lunch. Watching local life pass by, it’s a surprisingly peaceful spot in the heart of Gozo.

From here, you can access several narrow winding alleys of old town Victoria (around St George’s Basilica). These are full of shops selling artisan gifts, souvenirs and cool, typically Maltese-influenced art.

St. George’s Square and the Old Town

Walking towards the South from Independence Square, you’ll quickly reach St. George’s Square ( Pjazza San Ġorġ ), with St. George’s Basilica being the main feature. You’ll find several cafes here, and the little winding roads that branch out from this square are great for wandering around and enjoying at your own leisure.

Need to do some shopping?

Republic Street, which leads down from Independence Square towards the East of Gozo, offers a few shops (local and international outlets) and two shopping centres: The Duke shopping centre and Arkadia further down the road. Don’t expect a huge amount of shops, but rest assured you can find all the regular basics and necessities here, including a supermarket at each.

3) Admire some of the beautiful local churches and shrines

Basilicas, churches, and chapels abound in Gozo. There are too many to mention, but perhaps the most beautiful five are:

• The Cittadella Cathedral built between 1697 and 1711 in Baroque style
• The Xewkija Rotunda, or Church of St. John the Baptist, has the world’s third-highest unsupported dome and was built and funded by the local community
• The National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta’ Pinu , close to Għarb, with its large room full of ex-votos (religious offerings) left there by those who were blessed by a miracle, are impressive to see. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
• The onyx covered Żebbuġ church , dedicated to the Assumption
• St. George’s Basilica in the old town of Victoria.

4) Visit Dwejra

Dwejra is one of Gozo’s most beautiful locations to explore if you’re into nature and the open outdoors. Located on the outskirts of the village of San Lawrenz, this seaside location was once home to the famous Azure Window, a naturally formed arch attached to one of the cliffs.

Although, unfortunately, that iconic landmark in Gozo collapsed in 2017, there’s plenty of reason to head to Dwejra Bay still:

• Visit the inland sea: A naturally formed bay surrounded by tall cliffs and connected to the open sea through a large cave. At the inland sea, you can go for a swim and snorkel, relax on the little pebbly beach, or take a little boat trip through the cave and the coastline at Dwejra with one of the operators in the bay.
• Admire Fungus Rock from the rocky coastline. This rock formation stands tall just off the coast at Dwejra Bay and has a much richer history than its small size suggests. Centuries ago, when the Knights of Malta ruled the Maltese islands, access to Fungus Rock was strictly forbidden and even guarded at one point in time. Why? The rock was known for the Maltese fungus (actually a flowering plant) that grows on top of it. During those days, it was believed the plant had medicinal properties and was a valuable commodity. Fun fact: There’s a small hole through the centre of this rock, which photographers try to capture when the sunset hits at the right angle.
• Go inside and take a look at Dwejra’s watchtower when the flag is raised. Built in 1652 under Grand Master Lascaris (of the Knights of Malta), the Dwejra Tower was used to defend the surrounding area against attacks from the Mediterranean Sea and forms part of a chain of watchtowers around the Maltese islands. By design, these towers were located within view of at least two other towers to serve as an early warning system (by fire signals) of incoming attacks.
• Into diving? The Blue Hole is a popular dive site. A deep natural rock formation that opens up into an underwater arch some 10 metres below the water’s surface. After the Azure Window’s collapse in 2017, the surrounding site has become an even more interesting spot to explore.
• Do absolutely nothing here. Sit by the seaside, take in the views, take a deep breath and exhale the stress of everyday life. Dwejra Bay is one of my favourite places to do so and a lot of people (local and foreign) visit Gozo regularly just to unwind, go on a wellness retreat or just get a mini-trip close to home.

5) Hop over to the Blue Lagoon and Comino

Comino is the smallest of the three Maltese islands but is a major draw for tourists and locals alike for two main reasons: 1) The stunning Blue Lagoon Beach , and 2) for hiking across this little island to admire its natural beauty.

The Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is one of the biggest tourist hotspots in Malta. Located on the North coast, the sea water here is so crystal clear and azure blue you can even see it from Gozo on a clear summer’s day. Many boats moor at the Blue Lagoon for the day, and at the height of summer, it gets really busy.

For that reason, my usual advice is either to go to the Blue Lagoon early in the morning or later in the afternoon (with a sunset as a bonus).

The easiest way to get here from Gozo is using the hop-on-hop-off ferry of iSeeMalta, for which you can buy tickets online in advance here . (Recommended!)

If you’re staying in Malta, this is my recommended operator: Sea Adventure Excursions – Blue Lagoon boat trips .

Comino itself

With only a few actual inhabitants, Comino is one of the few parts of Malta that has remained largely untouched. Named after the cumin plant, which used to grow all over the island, it’s a great place to go on a long hike in Spring and Autumn. With some food and sturdy shoes, you can easily spend a few hours here soaking in some of the natural beauty and a handful of landmarks (including a large watchtower and historical coastal battery). Being a small island, everything is easy to reach on foot.

Check out my two guidebooks full of local knowledge and my best recommendations for your trip, and up-to-date for 2024 !

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6) Pick a cave to explore

Caves in Gozo are plenty, both underwater and above sea level. Shrimp’s Cave, Billinghurst Cave, and Coral Cave are three popular submerged destinations for passionate divers.

Ninu’s Cave and Xerri’s Grotto (both in Xagħra) are two underground caves accessible through the houses that were built on top for a small fee. Full of stalactites and stalagmites, they’re an interesting natural phenomenon to behold.

Tal-Mixta Cave is probably the most popular outdoor and remarkable cave in Gozo. Located to the East of Ramla l-Ħamra , the red sand beach, this large cave looks out over the bay, offering stunning views. It’s one of Gozo’s biggest Instagram hotspots for a reason.

7) Visit the Ġgantija Megalithic Complex

There’s something magical about the magnificent and imposing Ġgantija temples on the edge of the town of Xagħra in Gozo. This temple complex was built over 5,500 years ago and is officially recognised by UNESCO as one of the oldest free-standing buildings in the world. Older than Stonehenge, older than the pyramids of Giza, they were built by early inhabitants of Gozo, of which little is known.

What we do know is that after its excavation in 1826, it soon became clear that Ġgantija was dedicated to a fertility deity. The large megalith stone slabs used in its construction make it obvious that these buildings were revered and formed an important part of everyday life for the early civilisation that lived here. Today, the Ġgantija temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

8) Head to the beach and explore some of Gozo’s valleys

It’s incredible how many secrets a small island like Gozo can hold. Along its coastline, you’ll find a number of tiny bays, secluded beaches in Gozo , valleys and spectacular creeks that are worth exploring.

Ramla l-Ħamra Bay

It’s the red sand here that makes it unique, and that gives Ramla Bay its name. Crowded during summer and hauntingly beautiful in the winter months, Ramla l-Ħamra beach is Gozo’s largest sandy beach.  The water is clear and not too deep, although pebbly at the shoreline. While in Ramla Bay, look out for Tal-Mixta cave that looks down upon what is the best beach on Gozo Island.

San Blas Bay

One of Gozo’s hidden gems, San Blas Bay, is a small but picturesque sandy beach in Nadur with shallow and clear waters, reachable only on foot.

Daħlet Qorrot

Locals love it, and so will you. It takes a workout to reach it on foot, but you can drive there from Nadur. The rocky bay is excellent for swimming, and the views are first-class.

Ħondoq Ir-Rummien

Blue-green waters and a small sandy beach facing Comino. Packed in summer as it’s a favourite spot among locals and divers.

Wied il-Għasri​

Wondering what to do on Gozo Island? Take a walk off the beaten track and go in search of Wied il-Għasri​, a hidden creek away from it all. One of the best swimming areas on the island if you ask me. The sheer rock walls hide many ancient secrets.

Mind you, it’s not easy to get down to the shingle beach, and going back up is an adventure in itself, but well worth it. Extremely popular for diving and snorkelling.

Wied il-Mielaħ

After the sad demise of the Azure Window, the Wied il-Mielaħ natural arch is now first on the list of spectacular natural windows. To reach it, you’ll need to climb down a narrow staircase carved into the cliff wall.

9) Visit the Xwejni salt pans

Salt mining is an age-old tradition in Malta, and at Xwejni Bay, North of Żebbuġ, you can find the largest salt pans on the island of Gozo. Salt pans are large squares cut out of the flat rock surface along the coast that catch seawater washing in on windy winter days, allowing the salt to settle and dry up in the hot sun. Harvesting usually occurs between May and September (depending on weather conditions around these hot summer months).

Tradition aside, seeing all these squares cut into the rocky surface is one to behold, and photographers love snapping a few shots. Especially when the water’s collected in them and the sunset light hits the salt pans, it makes for a pretty picture indeed!

10) Eat and drink like a local

Wine tasting at tal-massar winery.

Tal-Massar is a family-owned winery in Għarb. The winery welcomes visitors twice a week and takes groups of ten or more on a 90-minute tour of the winery’s private estate. Sample five different wines, accompanied by traditional Gozitan bread and cheese, sun-dried tomatoes and cold-pressed olive oil. Saħħa (cheers in Maltese).

Tours are available on Saturday 3.15 pm to 6.30 pm.

Gozo pizza? Yes, please!

One of the best things to do in Gozo Island is, of course, to sample the local food. And when you ask any Maltese about food in Gozo, nine out of ten will for sure suggest you try either Maxokk bakery or the Ta’ Mekren traditional Gozitan pizza, both located a stone’s throw from each other in the village of Nadur. I suggest you try them both. Whichever bakery you choose, call to order in advance and pick a spot in the surrounding countryside or by the sea to enjoy this (filling!) meal.

Ta’ Mena Estate

Sample Gozitan wines that are made from grapes traditionally cultivated and processed on Ta’ Mena Estate , an agritourism complex in Xagħra, Gozo. Get close to nature and tradition, and enjoy local foods, wines, and liqueurs. Your hosts will provide you with tons of information about crops, trees and food processing in the traditional Gozitan way.

Sample a few local craft beers at Lord Chambray Brewery

Did you know that there’s a beer brewery in Gozo island? Lord Chambray brews a variety of interesting beers, ales and lagers. Quench your thirst with a cold brew from their shop/taproom, or book a tour of the brewery in advance to sample some local beer.

Try one of the many restaurants

The level of quality among restaurants in Gozo is high, so it’s pretty hard to go wrong. Sample fresh seafood at Marsalforn , Xlendi and Mġarr Harbour or sample some local and Italian specialities at eateries across the island. More info here:  The 20 Best Restaurants in Gozo .

Gozo attractions and landmarks to visit

Here are some Gozo attractions and landmarks you won’t regret visiting:

• Dwejra Tower – a medieval coastguard tower recently restored to perfection.
• Dwejra and the Inland Sea – The area around Dwejra (along the Southwestern coastline) is known for its stunning beauty. From Fungus Rock (known for a specific species of mushrooms that held great medicinal value in the time of the Knights) and the Inland Sea (a small bay that lies a little inland, surrounded by cliffs).
• Ta’ Kola Windmill – an old, authentic windmill with a wooden milling mechanism and original circular grinding stones that crush grain into flour.
• Ta’ Ġurdan Lighthouse – built in 1851 and still casting light towards seafarers, this landmark stands 161 metres above sea level. The view from up there is quite amazing.
• Ta’ Pinu Basilica and Shrine – a pilgrimage site where supposedly several miracles took place. The shrine is unique.
• Xwejni Salt Pans – man-made salt pans cut in the rock. Makes for some pretty pics.
• Mġarr ix-Xini – a creek with steep cliffs and crystal clear waters. Divers love this sheltered bay.
• Qolla l-Bajda Battery – an artillery battery in Żebbuġ built by the Knights of Saint John in 1715 as a coastal fortification.
• Saint Anthony’s Battery (Qala Battery) – the only other surviving battery, this one built in 1731 at Ras il-Qala, overlooking the channel between the islands.

Ta’ Ċenċ cliffs

Take a left from the Hotel Ta’ Ċenċ entrance to enter a plateau with views of Xewkija, Xagħra and Victoria. Can you spot the sneaky cart ruts or the sneaky-er prehistoric remains? Hidden well among the shrubs are two dolmen (large prehistoric stone slabs) from 2700 B.C. Turn right to walk along the steep limestone cliffs, which stand 130 meters above sea level.

Tas-Sanap cliffs

Are you thinking of heading to Xlendi? There’s a lot of natural beauty in this seaside village’s surroundings, including Tas-Sanap Cliffs . Great for an afternoon walk on a winter’s day, this stunning part of Gozo’s coast is a beautiful place to spend time outdoors.

What activities can you do on Gozo Island?

There are loads of activities you can do on Gozo Island, so I’ve picked up only the top-rated (and those that sound fun or unique).

Outdoor activities

Diving and/or snorkelling in gozo.

There’s worldwide consensus: Gozo Island is a prime destination for scuba diving holidays. No surprise, considering how many shore dive sites and boat dives Gozo has to offer.

Not into diving? There are several spots that are great for snorkelling, too, like Daħlet Qorrot Bay, Mġarr ix-Xini and Wied il-Għasri.

Kayaking for both experienced and beginner paddlers over the age of 8. This tour takes you along the towering cliffs on the west coast, snorkelling in the Blue Lagoon , rock hopping along Comino Island, and exploring caves and bays otherwise inaccessible by land.

Sunset boat cruise

Take a sunset boat cruise around the Southern parts of Gozo island, and get to the Blue Lagoon for a swim at the best part of the day, when most tourists will have left for the day. The sunset views and cooling temperatures on a hot summer night alone are worth the trip. Highly recommended!

Gozo Stables Horse-Riding

If you’re passionate about horses, it’s time to saddle up for an unforgettable horse riding experience along paths and coastline trails in the eastern part of Gozo. You’ll find the stables on the outskirts of the village of Qala, very close to the Mgarr ferry terminal. All horse-riding excursions are supervised, and there are activities for children as well as adults.

Mountain biking

Up for a challenge? Rent a mountain bike in Gozo and make your way around the island and its hilly terrain.

Local village feasts

Interested in soaking up a little local culture? Just like in Malta, village feasts are celebrated across villages in Gozo as well. They’re a big community event that happens around the same dates every year. They’re religious celebrations in honour of the local Saint and mark an important date on the local parish’s calendar of events. These celebrations are known for band marches, fireworks, local food and villagers coming together.

Nadur carnival

Carnival is one of the biggest annual events in Malta and Gozo, and Nadur is one of the focal points of spontaneous celebrations. Although it’s definitely not for everyone, local and Maltese youths take over the town over carnival weekend (February) dressed in funny and/or outrageous customers and usually well-intoxicated.

Kid-friendly activities in Gozo

While most of the places of interest mentioned above are child-friendly, especially those inside the old Citadel, sometimes kids just want to run around and play. Beaches are ideal, of course, but there are also playgrounds if the weather is not right for a day by the sea.

Here are a few ideas for travelling parents heading or staying on the island of Gozo on their holiday:

• Visit Villa Rundle Gardens in Victoria. These offer shade for the parents and a playing area for your children. The garden is well-kept and relaxing, with beautiful trees and gorgeous flower beds.
• Visit the Citadel cinema to catch a movie. Although small, this cinema is the only one in Gozo and, despite its size, is a lovely place to visit for a fun outing with the kids.
• Plan an outing to Dwejra, and while there, visit the Dwejra Marine Environmental Education Centre , which teaches visitors about the natural surroundings and unique qualities of the area. It’s located at the inland sea and is usually open every day (except Mondays).

Nightlife in Gozo

Gozo is not big on nightlife. Still, there are a few options to consider. If you’re visiting Gozo in summer, chances are there’s gonna be a village festa on the weekend. Festas are traditional, colourful and noisy, making them a must-see. If festas are not your thing, try wine and dining. Have a look at Gozo’s top restaurants .

Xlendi, Marsalforn and Victoria offer the best options in terms of nightlife. Not many clubbing options, as practically, there’s only one – La Grotta, a nightclub on the road to Xlendi. La Grotta is a seasonal place for clubbers in quite a unique setting that opens only during the summer months.

Bars, however, are open all year round, with the most popular being:

• Gebuba is a place for local and international craft beer in Nadur.
• Gleneagles Bar is a traditional bar close to the Gozo Ferry Terminal .
• Horatio’s Upper Deck is a cosy little bar in Mġarr harbour.
• The Club House is another traditional bar in Għajnsielem with views of Comino and Malta .
• Castle Bar is a place with a great atmosphere that serves a variety of beers, wines and cocktails in Victoria.
• Zeppi’s Pub is a laid-back, quiet, and traditional Gozitan bar in Qala , with live music and a friendly atmosphere.

Where to stay in Gozo Malta

So we’ve taken care of things to do in Gozo. No need to worry about accommodation in Gozo because there are plenty of options. Take a look at my guide on hotels in Gozo , which goes into detail about hotels and other places you can rent out.

How many days do you need in Gozo?

Depending on the purpose of your visit, one day is enough to go around the highlights of the little island, especially if you have a means of transport. But I would recommend at least three days to really savour the laid-back vibe of the place.

Is Gozo worth a visit?

Gozo is definitely worth a visit, with its beautiful countryside, attractive beaches and mesmerising clear waters.

Do I need a car in Gozo?

It is not vital to drive a car in Gozo. The island is small, so if you like to walk, you can cover a lot in just a few hours. A car would, of course, take you where you want to go faster, so you can accomplish more in a single day.

Can you walk around Gozo?

Gozo is the ideal place for people who like to walk. There are many places reachable only on foot, and since the main streets are less busy than in Malta, you’ll find it is safer as well. Unless you’re visiting in August, that is.

Left with questions?

Do you want to know more about a specific activity or do you have another question? Let me know in the comments and I’ll get back to you.

Looking for more inspiration? Have a look at my tried-and-tested itineraries: Malta in one week , 4-5 days in Malta and 3 days in Malta .

Edward is the Founder and Editor of Malta Uncovered and author of two guidebooks on Malta and Valletta.

As a tourist-turned-expat with Maltese roots, he knows the islands inside out and helps thousands of visitors enjoy a memorable trip every year.

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Rustic Charms & Country Living in the Mediterranean: 16 Best Things to Do in Gozo, Malta

“You’re going to LOVE Gozo, don’t miss it,” I was repeatedly told by friends who had visited Malta before I had and knew of my love of villages, slow food, and the rustic charms of countryside living. They were right.

The second largest island in the Maltese archipelago (Malta, being the largest), Gozo, home to a population of just 30,000, called Gozitan, not Maltese (the difference is important to acknowledge unless you want to offend a Gozitan), was perhaps my favorite part of the country. By the way, the name Gozo translates to ‘joy’ and to me, the name is certainly fitting. Just an easy ferry ride away from its sister island of Malta, Gozo couldn’t be more different with rolling fields, rustic farms, hilltop villages, ancient sites, gorgeous bays, and days that somehow feel less rushed, though that just might be the excellent Gozitan wine.

Is Gozo Worth Visiting?

Gozo was also home to Malta’s famous geological feature, the limestone arch called the Azure Window that collapsed in 2017. That was probably one of Gozo’s most famous attractions and also one of the most important tourist sights in Malta. Now that you can no longer see it, you might be wondering what else is there to do in Gozo, and might be tempted to ask, “Is Gozo worth visiting?”

The answer is a resounding YES, because there’s plenty more to see and do in Gozo. For those who like diving, there are some incredible diving sites around the island, some considered the best in the world. More importantly, visiting Gozo is about experiencing life outside of the cities in Malta and enjoying clean air, fresh local produce and beautiful nature.

Gozo is also pretty historic and you’ll see as I’ve explained more in detail below, the island of Gozo is home to prehistoric temples that are over 5,500 years making them among the oldest in the world. The full realization of what this means only hits you when you’re actually standing among these ruins- no other feeling in the world equals this. Beaches, wineries, slow food and farmhouses and farmstays aside- all among the most incredible places to visit in Gozo, this is one of the big reasons why you should visit Gozo. 

Plan your Malta trip

• Browse hotels on Booking.com or Hotels.com
• Book a private transfer with Welcome Pickups
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• For digital nomads, SafetyWing Insurance is currently the best option 

Once you’re done with all the interesting things to do and places to visit in Valletta , and other cities, head to Gozo. Here are the best things to do in Gozo.

16 Best Things to Do in Gozo

Gozo attractions map: what to do in gozo.

1. Visit the Pre-historic Ggantija Temples

The megalithic Ggantija Temples in Gozo, over 5,500 years old, are among the oldest freestanding structures in the world, built between 3600 and 3200 B.C, and are older (by over a 1000 years) than Stonehenge and the Pyramids in Giza, yet, it’s surprising that not more people have heard of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temples are one of the top places to visit in Gozo.

At this site in Xagħra, there are two temples, believed to be dedicated to a fertility deity. ‘Ggantija’ comes from the Maltese word for giants; it was believed that these temples were constructed by a race of giants, considering that some of the stones weigh over 50 tons. The temples are built of hard coralline and softer globigerina limestone and it’s kind of incredible that these structures have withstood the test of time.

It seems like the civilization that built these temples disappeared around 2500BC for reasons that are not known. There’s an Interpretation Center at the entrance before you get to a pathway to the temples with interesting exhibits and background information.

By the way, there are more megalithic temple sites in Malta as well as other archaeological sites on Gozo , which is kind of fascinating when you think about the fact that these were constructed before modern tools had been invented.

2. Tuck into Fresh Produce & Taste Local Wines at Ta’ Mena Estate

Joseph Spiteri, the owner of Ta’ Mena Estate , is a passionate man who doesn’t mince words. Showing us around his family-run estate, he talked of his relationship to the land and its bountiful produce; a love that perhaps grew stronger through moments like when his sister and he would put name tags ‘Joe’ and ‘Margaret’ to claim the first pears of the season. Named after his late mother Carmela (Mena) who founded it, the estate that started off over two hectares is now spread over 25 hectares and includes a fruit garden, an olive grove with 1500 olive trees, an orange grove and a vineyard.

An advocate of the slow food movement, he despises the idea of low quality produce to make a quick profit or keep costs low. While many farms couldn’t cope with the high costs of maintaining the quality of organic produce, Ta’ Mena Estate has evolved. Not only do they grow their produce (olives, lemons, oranges, strawberries, tomatoes, melons and other fruits and vegetables) organically, without the use of pesticides and chemicals, they also produce their own wine, liqueurs and a unique cold pressed extra virgin olive oil. To make it sustainable, they’ve added agritourism offerings such as events and weddings, wine tasting, winery and estate tours, and a farm-style lunch to the mix.

After a tour of the farm featuring a showstopper-worthy peacock and his favorite pet goat Dolly, whom he lovingly refers to as ‘Sabiha’ (translates to lovely), we were treated to a platter of fresh produce; tomatoes with flavor that just bursts into your mouth, aged peppered cheese, sundried tomatoes, fresh lettuce, delicious olives, and the tastiest sausages I’ve ever had along with bread and kunserva helwa (tomato sauce matured in the sun- unlike anything you’ve ever tasted), washed down with a glass of their amazing Juel Vermentino wine (must-buy if you’re interested in taking back bottles of local wine).

If you’re visiting Gozo, I highly recommend visiting Ta’ Mena Estate for a quick tour, wine tasting and tour or a delicious meal in their lovely estate. You can also buy wine, cheese, olive oil, olives, capers, pâtés, jams and other fresh produce from their store here or their boutique winery in Xewkija; it’s great quality for a very reasonable price. Just be sure to call and check/book in advance. In my opinion, a visit to Ta’ Mena Estate is one of the top things to do on your Gozo holidays, and I highly recommend it. 

Fun fact: Some Maltese and Gozitan wines have a salty aftertaste because the vineyards are close to the sea and the grapes absorb some of the salt. I only drank local wines in the country and absolutely loved each one, but the Gozitan Juel Vermentino was my favorite.

3. Visit The Old City of Victoria (Rabat)

The capital Victoria, still called by its original name Rabat (meaning suburb) by Gozitans is the main town on the island of Gozo and has been the center of cultural and commercial activity since it was formed. The town exists outside the fortified walls of the Citadel that rises up above the area and served as a safe refuge for locals during the threat of Turkish invasion. This hop-on hop-off tour of Gozo is an excellent way to get around the main sights on the island in a day. 

While a visit to the Citadel is a definite highlight of visiting Rabat, other cool things to do in Victoria include exploring Pjazza Indipendenza and the market stalls at it-Tokk , in the main square of the town. Wander in the old streets around St. George’s Basilica , shop for souvenirs at Republic Street , and relax in the Villa Rundle Public Gardens or at one of the town’s quaint cafés.

4. Explore the Citadel in Rabat

A trip to Gozo would be incomplete without a visit to the fortified Citadel that crowns the town of Rabat and is one of the top places to visit in Gozo. After the Great Siege of 1565 and until 1637, the residents of Gozo were required to sleep within the fortified walls of the Citadel for their safety in case of a Turkish attack. Today, the Citadel is home to just six residents.

Allow yourself at least an hour or two to explore the Citadel and its sights such as Gozo Cathedral, the Cathedral Museum, Museum of Archaeology, Folklore Museum, Old Prison, Old Gunpowder Magazine, Grain Silos, Battery and World War II Shelter. Afterwards, you’ll want to walk around the medieval walls and spend a few minutes appreciating the fantastic panoramic views over Gozo.

5. Get Some Beach Time on Your Gozo Holidays at the Sandy Beach at Ramla Bay

The reddish golden sandy beach of Ramla Bay in Gozo is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Malta, so be sure to spend some time here swimming or snorkeling in the beautiful blue waters of the Mediterranean or just relaxing on the beach. There are also other beaches in Gozo , if you’re staying longer, and getting some quality beach time is definitely one of the must-do things in Gozo.

6. Take a Boat to the Blue Lagoon and Comino

The tiny island of Comino lies between the islands of Malta and Gozo, and is home to just three residents (who work at its only hotel), a chapel, watchtower, spectacular dive spots, gorgeous blue waters, laidback beaches and natural caves. When in Gozo, taking a chartered boat out to Comino and the Blue Lagoon should be on top of your list of things to do.

You’ll want your visit to the Blue Lagoon to be unrushed; the crystal clear water is the kind of blue you think exists only in edited photos with their saturation turned up and the concept of time seems irrelevant when you’re in a place as peaceful and beautiful. You can easily spend a few hours here swimming, snorkeling or soaking in the serenity of the Mediterranean. In summer, the lagoon can get pretty crowded, so try to go to early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid other tourists.

We went with skipper Kevin of Galaxy Charters (who has some great reviews by the way). Alternatively you can also book this reasonably priced full day tour of Gozo, the Blue Lagoon, Comino and some cool sea caves .

7. For Beautiful Views on Your Gozo Holidays Visit Marsalforn Bay

Visit Marsalforn Bay, one of the most beautiful bays on the island of Gozo and spend some time relaxing on the beach, snorkeling or enjoying an al fresco lunch along its promenade. Tuck into fresh seafood at Il-Kartell restaurant where it’s hard to decide which one is better, the food or the view of the bay. If you’re looking for good dive spots, then get in touch with the many dive schools located close to the promenade at Marsalforn Bay.

8. What to Do in Gozo for Adventure: Go Diving in Gozo

Gozo is full of spectacular dive sites such as Xlendi and Mgarr-ix-Xini, with wrecks, boat dives and shore dives , and rich marine life , so if you’re staying a couple of days, you should definitely go diving in the azure, crystal clear waters. There are plenty of dive schools so whether or not you’ve dived before, there are courses and sites suitable for all levels. You can only dive if you’ve registered with a licensed dive center.

9. Get Active in Gozo

If you’re spending a few days on Gozo, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy and active such as rock-climbing and abseiling in Dwejra and Ta Cenc, biking along the coastal routes and through villages, country walks and watersports such as kayaking, canoeing, water-skiing and wakeboarding.

10. Visit the Qbajjar Salt Pans, a Unique Gozo Attraction

For one of the more unusual things to do in Gozo, make a quick stop at the Qbajjar Salt Pans Bay. Why would you want to visit, you ask? While this may be a first for many (it certainly was for me), it’s fascinating to learn how salt is harvested from the sea.

These salt pans, carved out of natural limestone, consist of pits to collect salt water and let it evaporate, leaving behind mineral-rich rock salt. The Qbajjar Salt Pans are run by the Cini family that has a history of sea salt harvesting spanning 250 years, and most of the harvesting methods and tools used today are the same as those used in the old days. The operation continues to be family-run and is indicative of how businesses usually are handed down through generations on Gozo. Don’t forget to buy some sea salt during your visit.

11. Bring Out Your Inner Child on Your Gozo Holidays at the Pomzkizillious Museum of Toys

Another unusual thing to do in Gozo is to visit the somewhat eclectic Pomzkizillious Museum of Toys in the village of Xaghra. Before you dismiss this as a thing to do with kids, you should know that adults too will enjoy this privately-curated museum that shows how toys and games have changed through the ages.

The collection of toys, games and dolls at this charming museum might fuel some nostalgia from your own childhood and is a good example of what to do in Gozo when it rains, or if you want to spend some time indoors on a hot afternoon.  The toy collection that originated in England in 1965 came to Gozo with its owner Susan Lowe on what was meant to be a holiday and has stayed since, having received gifts, donations and loans from well-wishers. Particularly fascinating is the collection of doll houses, the oldest of which dates to the 1860s and features its original furniture, wallpaper and candelabra.

Don’t miss the 18th century Maltese doll, German clockwork toys from the 1920s, and a pair of pedlar dolls from the 1830s. There’s also a lovely gift shop with toys, postcards, and books about Malta.

12. Visit Xerri’s Grotto, Among The Unusual Attractions in Gozo

Yet another one of the unusual things to do in Gozo (Gozo is full of surprises, I’m telling you) is to visit the utterly unexpected site of Xerri’s Grotto in the village of Xaghra. Xerri’s Grotto is a real cave with stalactites and stalagmites, and after I’ve told you this, I won’t be surprised if you drive up to this attraction, and want to turn away, thinking you’ve reached a wrong location. You’ll see a proper house with the name of the cave ‘Xerri’s Grotto’ but do not turn away just yet. You’re at the right location!

The cavern lies below the house and was discovered by Antonio Xerri in 1923 while digging a well. During WWII, the family extended the cave and used it as an air raid shelter. Today, tourists can visit the grotto led by a member of the family, so expect stories about how the cavern was found. A spiral staircase descends into the cavern where you can see curious, animal-shaped and other fascinating formations. This is also one of the things to do in Gozo on a rainy day. Bear in mind that this activity ias not suitable for those who are claustrophobic. 

13. See the Opera in Gozo

The wealth of culture in Malta and Gozo is apparent in the fact that there are two opera houses on Gozo alone, so it’s worth seeking some of it out on your Gozo holidays. If you’re lucky, you might be able to catch an opera at either the Astra Theater or the Aurora Opera House , or as part of the Festival Mediterranea.  Be sure to check schedules and tickets availability before you go. 

14. Visit the Ta’ Dbiegi Crafts Village

If you love arts and crafts created by skilled artisans that preserve their cultural heritage through art, then a visit to the Ta’ Dbiegi Crafts Village in the village of Gharb on Gozo is in order, even if it’s one of the more unusual things to do in Gozo. The oldest crafts village on Gozo is one of the coolest places to visit in Gozo. It’s spread over a large area where you can watch artists at work and also buy unique, one-of-a-kind pieces to take back home, think lace (that the country is famous for), silver jewelry, paintings, metal art, pottery, glass and candles, among other things. 

You can also try your hand at creating pieces yourself and learn some techniques through workshops. Note that the village is open from Mondays to Fridays between 10.30am and 4pm and on Saturdays, only in the mornings.

15. Go Hiking in Gozo

If like me you love hiking and have a bit of time to spend on Gozo, then you should definitely try to a few of the hikes on the island. While Gozo is small, it has some wildly beautiful landscapes to explore on foot- think dramatic cliffside coastal walks, 360-degree views and heritage walks to see the island’s most historic spots.

Most of these amazing trails are marked and easily do-able if you’re an active traveler. The pleasant weather and sunny climate means that they’re do-able round the year. If you’re interested, you can find more information and maps on this page about the different hikes and trails in Gozo .

Things to Do in Gozo at Night

While you’ll find plenty of nightclubs, bars and pubs on Malta, the nightlife in Gozo is more about laidback bars, pubs and breweries- for this, head to Xaghra Square. Remember when I said slow, relaxed living?

Still, if you find that your feet are itching to dance and you just can’t pacify the party animal inside of you, then head to La Grotta, the biggest, most happening club in Xlendi on Gozo, located on a cliffside with stunning views of the area, and an indoor cave section! Talk about epic dance floor locations.

Open only in summer and with a few bars and indoor and outdoor dance floors, the party gets started late here and goes on till the wee hours of the morning. Expect big-name DJs, laser shows, and plenty of revelry. 

How to Get to Gozo

Regular ferries run between the islands of Malta and Gozo, transporting both passengers and cars. The Malta to Gozo ferry takes about 25 minutes. There are over 20 departures on the Gozo Channel line daily, departing from Cirkewwa in Malta and Mgarr in Gozo, you can check schedules here . But during peak season, these fill up pretty quickly with locals and tourists and once full, you won’t be allowed to board. So to avoid waiting 45 minutes for the next ferry, get there at least 20-30 minutes before departure.

Visiting Malta? Here’s what you need to know about the capital Valletta, the European Capital of Culture 2018.

How to Get Around Gozo

You can rent a car or bicycle to get around in Gozo or use public transportation such as taxis and buses. There’s also a Hop-on Hop-off bus in Gozo to get around the main sights over one or two days. Alternatively, do a full-day Quad Bike Tour of Gozo   . If you prefer a bit more comfort and flexibility, then do this jeep and power boat tour of Gozo in a day . 

You can charter a boat to visit the Blue Lagoon and Comino.

How Much Time to Spend in Gozo

If you’re on a short trip, Gozo is an easy day trip from Malta, but one you must definitely do if you are not staying longer. If you’ve got more time, I suggest spending one, two, or even four days in Gozo, after all Gozo is well-connected to Malta and there are some amazing farmhouses and boutique hotels to stay at in Gozo. Accommodation in Gozo can be more affordable than Malta, so it’s a good idea to base yourself there for a part of your trip.

Where to Stay in Gozo

In Gozo you can stay at boutique hotels or in farmhouses that are full of character and are an ideal way to experience rustic Gozitan countryside living but in totally luxurious and big homes. Most farmhouses come with modern amenities, spacious rooms with en-suite bathrooms, garden areas, and most even have their own pool.

Here are some farmhouses in Gozo to check out:

Babouche Villa with Pool in Gharb

Citadel View with Pool in Victoria

Dar ta’ Tumas Gharb

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Additional Reading

Things to do in Valletta: The Cultural Capital of Malta is a Baroque Gem

Reasons to Visit Gozo: Rustic Charms and Country Living

20 Obscure, Interesting and Totally Awesome Things to Know About Malta

I visited Malta as a guest of the Malta Tourism Authority. All opinions are, as always, honest and independent. I would never recommend experiences that I haven’t or wouldn’t book for myself. Some links in this post are affiliate links.

Have you visited Gozo yet? Would you consider Malta and Gozo for your next holiday?

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using these, I might get a small commission with no extra cost to you , which goes towards running this site.

Wednesday 14th of November 2018

Gozo may be a small island but it surely has a lot to offer it's visitors. Your post is awesome. For me personally, a visit to the Ta' Mena Estate and the Citadel are an absolute must because it allows you to get a good glimpse of the island's rich history and culture.

Sunday 1st of July 2018

Your blog is just stunning.

12 Best Things to Do in Gozo, Malta

Gozo is Malta’s sister island, located just north of the main island of Malta. Small in size yet packed with culture, history and natural beauty, Gozo has so much to offer visitors. From world-heritage temples to secluded beaches, here are the 12 best things to do in Gozo, Malta’s hidden gem.  

Visit the Local Churches and Shrines

As a deeply religious island, Gozo has countless beautiful churches and chapels to discover. Topping the list is the Cathedral in Cittadella with its Baroque architecture.

The impressive Xewkija Rotunda has the third-largest unsupported church dome in the world. No religious site visit is complete without seeing the emotive ex-votos at Ta’ Pinu, Gozo’s national shrine. Other highlights include the sparkling onyx-covered Żebbuġ church and the stately St. George’s Basilica in Victoria. 

Eat and Drink Like a Local

Gozitan dining offers flavours as rich as the island’s history. Schedule a tour and tasting at Tal-Massar winery to try five local wines paired with traditional breads, cheeses, oils and sundried tomatoes. For the iconic Gozitan pizza experience, join the locals at Maxokk Bakery or Ta’ Mekren in Nadur village.

Sample estate-grown agricultural products and wines at Ta’ Mena farm in Xagħra.

Quench your thirst Gozo-style with craft beers at the Lord Chambray taproom in Victoria. With farm-to-table dining experiences and waterfront restaurants around every corner, eating your way through Gozo is a must.  

Visit the Xwejni Salt Pans

Gozo’s tradition of sea salt production remains alive at Xwejni Bay’s salt pans . The pans are impressive squared-out sections of rock along the coastline that collect seawater in the winter months.

Evaporation leaves behind sea salt for harvesting between May and September. Photographers flock here for iconic sunset shots illuminating the salt pans.   

Visit the Beaches 

It’s easy to find off-the-beaten-path beaches and coves on Gozo. Top beach picks include the red sands of Ramla Bay, Gozo’s largest beach. Quiet San Blas Bay offers shallow waters and sand perfect for families.

Photogenic Daħlet Qorrot charms visitors with its stone beach backed by stunning cliffs.  

Visit the Ggantija Megalithic Temples

Built 1,000 years before the Pyramids of Giza, the monumental Ġgantija temples are Gozo’s top historical attraction. Constructed from enormous stone slabs by an ancient civilization, this UNESCO World Heritage Site gives visitors a glimpse into Gozo’s mysterious prehistoric past.

Visitors can explore the two temples, known as the South Temple and the North Temple, which feature various altars, niches and elaborate carvings. Archaeologists believe the temples were possibly used for fertility rituals and worship of a mother goddess.

Explore the Caves

Above and below sea level, Gozo has many fascinating caves to suit every explorer. Take to the waters off Xagħra to find well-known scuba diving caves like Shrimp’s Cave.

Ninu’s Cave and Xerri’s Grotto offer walking tours through long underground tunnels covered in magical rock formations. Nature lovers shouldn’t miss sea-facing Tal-Mixta Cave, situated perfectly for viewing Gozo’s best sunset.   

Take a Trip to the Blue Lagoon and Comino

Gozo’s smallest neighbour island of Comino is home to one of Malta’s top attractions, the mind-blowingly beautiful Blue Lagoon. Visitors flock here to take in the shallow, brilliant blue waters at this ultimate swimming and snorkelling spot.

With regular ferry transport from Gozo, Comino makes an easy and rewarding day trip escape.  

Visit Dwejra Bay

For natural beauty, Dwejra Bay is a highlight of western Gozo. Admire inland seas, unique rock formations like Fungus Rock, and sea-formed features like the famed Azure Window arch (now collapsed).

Photography opportunities abound from this dramatic seaside landscape in San Lawrenz.

Wander Around Marsalforn 

The pretty seaside town of Marsalforn on Gozo’s north coast charms visitors with its picturesque bay filled with colourful fishing boats, excellent restaurants and lively promenade lined with bars and gelaterias.

Spend an afternoon here beachside or pavement hopping before dinner overlooking the water.  

Explore Victoria’s Citadel and Old Town

No Gozo experience is complete without getting lost wandering the car-free cobblestone alleys of Victoria’s fortified Citadel. Dating back to medieval times, today the Citadel offers museums, cafes, shops and epic panoramas atop the historic bastion walls.

Just outside the Citadel gates, Independence Square provides lively snapshots of daily life. Nearby St. George’s Square is perfectly positioned for exploring Victoria’s charming side streets peppered with restaurants, bars and boutiques.  

Go Diving and Snorkelling

With incredible underwater scenery, Gozo is considered one of the top diving destinations in the Mediterranean. Experienced divers can explore colourful coral reefs, tunnels, caves and wrecks.

Many dive sites also appeal to beginner or snorkelling abilities. Popular spots include Mgarr Ix-Xini, Xlendi Bay and the Blue Hole near Dwejra.

Cycle the Countryside Trails

Gozo’s quiet roads and unspoilt inland countryside create ideal conditions for leisurely bike rides. Several designated cycling routes connect key sites while avoiding main vehicle roads.

Rent a mountain bike to follow coastal paths to secluded beaches or use the electric bike network to cruise through farmland and vineyards under your own power.

Once you have your itinerary sorted, it’s time to figure out essentials like flights and accommodation. 

Where to Stay

When visiting Gozo, visitors can choose from a range of accommodation options for a comfortable stay. Luxurious hotels like the Duke Boutique Hotel in Victoria Gozo offer amenities like infinity pools, fine dining, spas, and easy access to beaches and nature trails.

For more affordable rates, travellers can consider nicely furnished farmhouse bed and breakfasts or rental apartments in Gozitan villages like Xlendi and Marsalforn. These provide home comforts and an authentic taste of local life.

Gozo also has a wide selection of 3 and 4-star hotels with lovely sea views and proximity to attractions. Budget options like hostels and guesthouses allow backpackers and students to experience Gozo’s beauty. 

From luxury stays to delectable food and wine experiences to world-class natural landscapes, tiny Gozo serves up sights and activities to rival even Malta’s main island. With this ultimate list of top things to see and do, visitors can make the most of their Gozo getaway.

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THE 10 BEST Island of Gozo Sights & Historical Landmarks

Island of gozo landmarks.

• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• Churches & Cathedrals
• Historic Sites
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. The Citadel

2. Ta' Pinu National Shrine

Recommended Sightseeing Experiences (112)

3. Ggantija Archaeological Park

4. St. George's Basilica

5. Xwejni Salt Pans

6. Church of St. John The Baptist

7. Dahlet Qorrot Beach

8. Ta' Kola Windmill

9. The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

10. Gozo Alpaca Walks

11. Xaghra Parish Church

12. San Blas beach

13. Ghajnsielem Parish Church

14. Xlendi tower

15. Iglesia de Gharb

16. Fort Chambray

17. Saint Lawrence Parish Church

18. Church of Holy Mother Lurdskaya

19. Dwejra Tower

20. Dreams of Horses Farm

21. Tas-Salvatur

22. Isopu Tower

23. Independence Square

24. St Francis Church

25. Mgarr World War Shelters

26. Chapel of San Dimitri

27. Citadella. St. Martin's Demi-bastion

28. Nadur Parish Church

29. Ta Gurdan Lighthouse

30. War Memorial

What travelers are saying

A Complete Guide To the Top Things To Do On Gozo, Malta

Updated: Apr 18, 2023

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission from the discount codes used or when a link/ad is clicked. All purchases made will come at no extra cost to you, and I only include products and services that I have personally used and would recommend.

Are you planning a day trip to Gozo ? Or maybe you prefer to stay for a week so you can see as much of the island as possible. Either way, there are many fantastic things to do on Gozo from visiting its beautiful bays and beaches to discovering its unique past and dining on local cuisine. And luckily the island couldn’t be easier to get to from Malta’s mainland thanks to the modern ferries that run 24/7 for both foot passengers and visitors with a vehicle.

Spending a day on Gozo has always been a popular option for the Maltese as well as tourists thanks to its laid-back atmosphere, rural landscape, and tranquil beaches. But beyond this Gozo has a lot more to offer. It’s almost like the island has been frozen in time with its narrow roads winding between the small villages, abundance of historical sites, and stunning untouched landscapes and coastlines. No two attractions are more than a 30 minute drive from one another so be prepared to have a very full Gozo itinerary.

Table of Contents

Things to do on gozo, best restaurants on gozo, where to stay on gozo.

There are a lot of interesting places on Gozo to visit that are easily accessible by car or public transportation if you haven’t rented a vehicle. If you do plan on driving in Malta, and subsequently Gozo, the drivers here are a little crazy so be extra cautious. They also drive on the left side of the road like in the UK which was something I didn’t realize until I sat down in my rental car.

This short list of the top things to do on Gozo covers some of the island’s most popular attractions but also mentions a few hidden gems and secret places on Gozo that can sometimes be overlooked by tourists.

Explore Victoria and its citadel

One of the first things we did after arriving on Gozo was to visit the famous Cittadella in Victoria . This ancient fortified city is one of the top things to see on Gozo and the main attraction in Victoria . Inside the citadel’s walls are several small museums, a few shops, an 18th century cathedral, and a lot of historical streets to walk among. For €13 the Discover Gozo pass gave us access to the museums here and some attractions just outside of Victoria.

I would suggest planning 2-3 hours for the citadel before turning your attention to Victoria itself. This is the main town on Gozo and the unofficial capital of the island. There are plenty of shops and restaurants dotted around within easy walking distance of the citadel, and it’s always nice to walk around the streets of Victoria and see what hidden gems you can come across.

Go coffee cupping at Victoria Central

Do you consider yourself a bit of a coffee aficionado? Then you’ll definitely want to grab a seat at Victoria Central and try their coffee cupping experience . It’s located across the road from Pjazza Indipendenza and is one of the best places in Malta for specialty coffee. They source only the finest coffee beans from various parts of the world and do all of their roasting in-house so you won’t find their unique blends anywhere else.

We sat down for one of their coffee cupping sessions with their head roaster, Azzurra, who talked us through all of the steps that go into making their specialty blends. During the coffee cupping experience we also sampled several of their most popular blends, as well as a couple of new additions to their shelves. This is one of the most unique things to do on Gozo and I guarantee you won’t have this experience anywhere else in Malta.

Drive down to Mġarr ix-Xini

If you’ve rented a car in Malta then you can’t miss the opportunity to drive down to Mġarr ix-Xini . It’s a very secluded inlet that’s becoming increasingly popular for divers but due to its lack of a sandy beach you won’t find it too busy. For those of you who like coastal walks there’s a 17th century watchtower located nearby with a recently renovated path leading up to it.

Visit Gozo's oldest village

Victoria may be the largest town on Gozo, but the title of the oldest village goes to Xewkija . There isn’t too much to do here in terms of attractions but it’s home to the Rotunda of St. John the Baptist which is a must-see on Gozo. A church has stood on this site since the 17th century, but the enormous structure seen today dates back to the late 20th century. It boasts the third largest unsupported dome in the world and for just €3 you can gain access to the roof and bell tower for some incredible views of Gozo.

Relax at Hondoq Bay

One of the best beaches on Gozo can be found at Hondoq Bay . The crystal clear water here is breathtaking and on a clear day you’ll be able to pick out different shades of blue in the water. If you’re planning on visiting in the summer season I would recommend coming as early as possible to ensure you have a spot on the small sandy part of the bay. In the off season though you should have this hidden gem on Gozo all to yourself - if you dare to take a dip!

Take a walk around Xlendi

There are many beautiful coastal locations on Gozo to visit but Xlendi needs to be near the top of your list. Xlendi Bay is one of the most jaw dropping areas of Gozo, with its quaint fishing village giving way to dramatic cliffs and bright blue water. This is another great diving location on Gozo, and if you like hiking there is a relatively easy trail leading from the bay up to Xlendi Tower where you can get a fantastic view of the coastline from a unique perspective.

Step back in time at the Ġgantija Temples

If you love history you can’t visit Gozo without visiting the fascinating Ġgantija Temples . These prehistoric temples were built before Stonehenge, between 3600 and 3200 BC, and weren’t fully uncovered until the 19th century. Before visiting the temples you’ll pass through an interpretation centre where you can read about the history of these temples before entering them. It’s an incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the top things to do on Gozo at any time of the year.

Take in the views from Tal-Mixta Cave

Ramla Bay is home to one of the best beaches on Gozo, if not Malta, with its unique soft red sand set among an underdeveloped rural landscape. Compared to other beaches on Gozo, Ramla Beach is quite large so you should have no issues finding a relaxing spot to soak up the sun. But for a unique view of Ramla Bay you’ll need to head up to Tal-Mixta Cave .

This cave can be accessed by driving along a small uneven road not far from Ramla Bay. You’ll get to a point where the road becomes private property so you’ll need to park the car and walk an additional 5 minutes to the cave entrance. The cave itself offers one of the most spectacular views in all of Malta and has a history dating back to the prehistoric period when habitants of the island would shelter here in bad weather.

Admire Ta’ Pinu

As you make your way around the island you’ll notice that there are a lot of religious buildings on Gozo. One of the most impressive of these though is Ta’ Pinu . Located just outside of the village of Gharb, where you can also find the Ta' Dbiegi Crafts Village, the Ta’ Pinu National Shrine is a major pilgrimage site and is one of the most important things to see on Gozo.

Entry is free but you’ll be required to cover yourself if you’re dressed in summer clothing out of respect. For a great photo of Ta’ Pinu there are several parking spots along the road where you can see the entire shrine in all of its glory.

Explore the coastline at Dwejra Bay

If you want to see a lot of attractions on Gozo all at once then Dwejra Bay is the perfect option. This dramatic coastal location is one of the most popular places to visit on Gozo and was where the famous Azure Window stood before it collapsed. You’ll also find Dwejra Tower , Fungus Rock , the Inland Sea , and the very popular and unique Blue Hole all nestled in this bay. The Blue Hole on Gozo is a popular swimming spot when the water is calm so make sure you bring your swimming gear!

Spend sunset at the Xwejni Salt Pans

There are plenty of places to see the sun setting on Gozo, but one of my personal favourites is at the salt pans in Xwejni . The salt pans that sit along the island’s northern coast, a short drive from Marsalforn Bay , are still harvested today using ancient techniques to create artisan salt. There are shops across from the salt pans where you can purchase bags of this unique salt but unfortunately they’re closed near sunset so you’ll have to arrive earlier to get some.

Gozo may be a small island but it’s certainly not short of unique places to eat. Victoria has a large selection of restaurants to choose from but there are many more spread throughout the island that are worth driving to. Here are some of the best restaurants on Gozo that we came across during our week-long stay.

Maldonado Bistro

One of the top restaurants on Gozo is located in the back streets of Victoria and will instantly get your taste buds flowing with its modern take on Mediterranean cuisine. Maldonado Bistro is located in the basement of an historic Maltese townhouse that dates back over 300 years and the original walls are still a dominant feature of the interior. Their menu is created around locally sourced produce so everything is incredibly fresh and tasty. Maldonado Bistro also offers a wine tasting experience and cooking classes if you’re looking for something unique to do on Gozo when it’s raining.

Let’s get back to the food at Maldonado Bistro. The smoked aubergine tartlet is a great starter for vegetarians or if you’re feeling adventurous you can try the citrus glazed octopus which is presented beautifully. For a taste of the Mediterranean I would suggest ordering the pan-roasted red snapper . If you enjoy pasta though the black truffle agnolotti is bursting with flavour and was one of my favourite dishes of the night. Their desserts change regularly but they’re all made in-house so make sure you leave some extra space for one.

We had an incredible dining experience at Maldonado Bistro and were blown away by not only the ambiance of its historic setting but also the unique flavour profiles that came with each dish. It’s not hard to see why it’s one of the best restaurants on Gozo.

Noble Café Bistro

If you’re looking for a modern and affordable place for lunch on Gozo you have to check out Noble Café Bistro in Victoria. They have a fantastic menu available with all of your favourite lunch dishes but you can expect some of them to have a unique upgrade too. They’re only open until mid-afternoon during the week, however they’re open late into the night on weekends so it’s up to you when you’d rather visit.

We were feeling quite hungry when we stopped by so we opted for their bites platter which was a massive plate full of deep fried goodness with three sauces of our choosing on the side. One of the specials of the day was the El Ranchero Burger which came with avocado fries and a shot of tequila. The pulled pork burger is also a great option if you want something on the “lighter” side but still fancy a burger. There are fresh smoothies available too which are nice and refreshing, especially on a hot day.

Noble Café Bistro is a very trendy place to eat on Gozo that you should add to your itinerary if you’re visiting Victoria and the surrounding area.

Al Sale Restaurant

Looking for a romantic restaurant on Gozo? Or maybe you just want to have a memorable dining experience with beautiful views. Well Al Sale Restaurant has got everything covered - including some delicious food. This restaurant is located in the heart of Xagħra - a short walk from the Ġgantija Temples and not too far from Victoria either. Al Sale Restaurant’s menu is based around Mediterranean cuisine and if you’re lucky enough to snag the table on the balcony you’ll have a stunning view of the town’s church for the duration of your fine dining experience.

A warm basket of bread and traditional spreads will be brought to the table while you browse the menu which is a nice way to kick things off. For starters I would recommend sharing the Funghi Arancini but you absolutely have to order the Scallops au Gratin which are some of the best I have ever tasted. The Sea Bass Al Sale is an experience in itself where you can watch as the salt crust is chipped away to reveal the fish underneath. For pasta lovers you need to order the Tagliolini Pistachio & Burrata served with crispy pancetta - it’s unbelievable.

The pasta is extremely filling, but if you still have some room for dessert the chocolate fondant is bursting with melted chocolate and worth indulging in. Or you can opt for something on the lighter side with their take on panna cotta . Al Sale Restaurant is worth driving to and with an unbeatable location and fantastic food this is one restaurant you’ll be telling everyone about.

Otters Bistro & Lounge

If you find yourself in the north of Gozo there’s only one place to eat - Otters Bistro & Lounge . This contemporary restaurant is situated along the water’s edge of Marsalforn Bay so you’ll also get a beautiful view while you eat. We visited for lunch so the sun was still shining on the outdoor patio for most of our meal. Their menu is based around seasonal and fresh produce meaning there are a lot of popular seafood options available.

The bruschetta is a very tasty starter option that comes in three different versions - traditional, black olive tapenade, and goats cheese with nectarine and basil. Or for you seafood lovers out there the king prawns are another great option. If you choose the fish of the day as your main dish, it'll be brought to your table and you have the option to clean it yourself or have the kitchen do it. The mushroom agnolotti is bursting with truffle goodness and was a very nice sized dish to have for lunch.

You can’t leave Gozo without trying cannoli at least once, and luckily Otters Bistro has different flavours of them on their dessert menu. I would recommend sharing this dessert as it comes with four cannoli on a plate. You can opt for one of their other homemade desserts too such as the espresso cake . This is easily one of the best restaurants on Gozo and is the perfect choice if you’re planning on visiting Marsalforn Bay, the salt pans, or Ramla Beach.

Karamelli Brunch Café

A great option for breakfast on Gozo is Karamelli Brunch which is located in the very centre of Victoria. Their menu consists of quite a few traditional breakfast and brunch options, but you’ll also find some Maltese food thrown into the mix. If you’re like me and love to eat breakfast then you can’t go wrong with their eggs benedict which comes with a very generous portion of bacon.

But if you want to be a bit bolder or are planning to visit at lunch then one of their ftira sandwiches, such as the Mother Clucker , will definitely fill you for the rest of the day - it’s enormous. Karamelli Brunch is a new and trendy place to eat in Victoria so make sure you stop by one morning before exploring the rest of the island

Knights Retreat, Gozo

Wondering where to stay on Gozo? The Knights Retreat is a fantastic holiday villa located less than 5 minutes from the ferry terminal. It’s situated inside Fort Chambray which is an 18th century fort that has now been turned into apartments for residents as well as holiday lets. One of the main features of the complex is its enormous pool that sits just in front of a viewpoint where you can see Comino and Malta from.

There’s also a second smaller pool located right next to the Knights Retreat which was being renovated when we visited. There’s ample underground parking available on the complex and you’re free to walk around and snap some photos whenever you want as long as you respect the other residents.

The Knights Retreat is made up of two levels. On the ground floor you have the large open kitchen, a small seating area in front of the balcony, a large dining room table, a twin-bedded room, and a bathroom with a walk-in shower. The kitchen comes fully equipped and there is a Lidl less than 15 minutes away to do your shopping at. You’ll also be provided with beach towels and other beach equipment so there’s no need to panic about packing umbrellas and chairs.

We had a breakfast hamper delivered right to our door one morning from Gozo Picnic who provide unique picnic services around the island. They’re now branching out and offer hamper services to your door which is perfect if you haven’t had time to do some shopping yet or simply want to treat yourself. The breakfast hamper was filled with a mixture of common breakfast food as well as some local products too. This is a great way to support a local business and at the same time have an amazing breakfast from the comfort of the villa.

The upstairs level of the Knights Retreat consists of a large living room with a TV, a bathroom with a bathtub and washing machine, a second twin-bedded room, and a spacious double-bedded room. There’s also a balcony halfway up the stairs where you can enjoy the views and WiFi available throughout the villa. Each room comes with its own heating and air-conditioning unit too so it’s very easy to get the temperature you want at any time of the year.

We spent a week at the Knights Retreat and loved every minute. The complex is easy to access after you’ve taken the ferry to Gozo and its location is perfect for visiting all of the best things to see on Gozo too. And with three bedrooms available it’s ideal for bringing the entire family here for a relaxing stay on Gozo, away from the busy cities and towns on Malta’s mainland.

>> Click here for the most up to date prices at the Knights Retreat <<

Hopefully this guide covering the top things to do on Gozo, Malta has enticed you to spend more than just a few hours on this beautiful Maltese island. Getting to Gozo from Malta has never been easier with the ferry services available and if you’re planning to rent a car in Malta then you’ll have no problems seeing all of the attractions on Gozo during your stay. Gozo is a popular place to visit all year round, but the off season is the perfect time to explore the island without the crowds. And with so many places to visit on Gozo you’ll definitely need at least a few days here.

Have you hopped on the ferry to Gozo before? Or maybe Gozo is in your plans for your upcoming trip to Malta? If you have any questions or tips regarding other things to do on Gozo please feel free to leave a comment below or get in touch via Instagram where you can also find more content from our trip to Malta.

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• Island Vacations

This Small Mediterranean Island Is a Hidden Gem With Historic Towns and a Stunning Coastline

Ready for an island escape unlike any other? Gozo is waiting.

What to Know About Gozo

The best time to visit gozo, things to do in gozo, gozo hotels.

• How to Get to Gozo

Davide Seddio/Getty Images

Looking for an island getaway where the waters are electric blue , the history is deep, and the crowds are thin? Then it’s time to head to Gozo. Located in the Mediterranean, Gozo is just one of the breathtaking islands part of the archipelago of Malta. It’s a place that’s been inhabited for thousands of years and has remained a quiet and stunning destination all that time. It’s a place where outdoor enthusiasts and laid-back vacationers can both find a little bliss, if they’re willing to make the trek. Here’s what you need to know about planning the perfect getaway to Gozo. 

Related : The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2023

Gozo is a small island, covering just 26 square miles. It’s a spot tailor-made for rest and relaxation, so those looking for a party atmosphere or a rowdy experience should steer clear. Though it’s quiet, there’s still plenty to see and do here, especially for those looking for an active vacation. And, before you go, make sure to exchange dollars for euros, as that’s the currency across Malta. 

The good news is, there really isn’t a bad time to go to Gozo. According to WeatherSpark , throughout the year, the temperature averages range from 50°F to 87°F and rarely ever fall below 44°F. That said, if you’re looking for warm weather worthy of a dip in the ocean, it’s best to visit during the summer season between June and September, when the average high is 86°F. Also check out the shoulder seasons in the spring (April and May) and fall (mid-September to November) when temperatures remain comfortable in the 70s. 

Andrey Danilovich/Getty Images

Visit the one-time site of the Azure Window.

The Azure Window was one of the great natural phenomena of Gozo, and it was even featured in television shows like Game of Thrones . Sadly, it collapsed in 2017, but that doesn’t make the site any less worthy of a visit. Hike along the Dwejra Bay for as long as you’d like, taking in the views of the craggy coastline and seeing other special sites like The Fungus Rock, the Blue Hole, and the Inland Sea lagoon. 

See the Citadel.

Learn more about the island’s history by visiting the Citadel in Rabat (also referred to as Victoria). The walled city was built in the 15th century and still contains many historically significant sites and several of the island’s museums, including the Museum of Archeology. The Citadel also offers one of the best views in town thanks to its location on top of the hill, so make sure to take a 360-degree look while you’re there.

Take a boat to the Blue Lagoon.

Though all of Gozo is gorgeous, it’s a good idea to get on a boat and get off the island to visit one of the most popular attractions — the Blue Lagoon. Located on the nearby island of Comino, the lagoon is the stuff of Instagram dreams, with water that looks almost too blue to be real, surrounded by coves and caves worth exploring. Charter a sailboat for a day for a private adventure, or hop on a public cruise for a quick visit. 

Lounge at Ramla Beach.

If you’re here in the warmer months, stop by Ramla Beach, known for having the softest sand on the island. It’s a large beach, so you won’t have trouble finding a spot to lay out for the day, but do note it’s a popular destination, so odds are you’ll be next to another tourist or two. 

See the salt pans.

The Xwejni Salt Pans are one more glorious site to visit on Gozo. The salt pans, located on the north end of the island, have been used for hundreds of years to harvest salt for locals, and they remain an important part of Gozo life. They also happen to be a rather photogenic place thanks to their unique patterns. 

Stefan Cioata/Getty Images

Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz

For a touch of luxury on your Gozo getaway, book a stay at the Kempinski Hotel . Here, guests will find spacious suites, including several with massive patios for enjoying the outdoors, and residential-style apartments, as well as several restaurants and a full-service spa to help you further unwind. 

Grand Hotel Gozo

Located at the gateway to the island, the Grand Hotel Gozo is both a convenient and comfortable place to call home during your stay. Take in the ocean views from every window, book family suites for group getaways, take a dip in its indoor and outdoor pools, and book a treatment in its Elemis Spa.

Dar tal-Kaptan Boutique Maison

Find yourself surrounded by more of Gozo’s history at the Dar tal-Kaptan Boutique Maison , a 400-year-old farmhouse in Ghasri. Here, guests will find a home-style stay that still includes all the bells and whistles you want on vacation, including a sauna, hammam, steam room, and several outdoor spaces to soak in the sun. 

How to Get to Gozo 

Getting to Gozo requires flying to the main island of Malta, then heading to Ċirkewwa to catch a ferry. The ferry is super convenient and takes just 25 minutes, with departures every 45 minutes. Once you’re on Gozo, getting around is easy. Visitors can rent a car or four-wheeler for their stay, or rely on local taxis and the public bus.

Related Articles

The 12 Best Things to do in Gozo, Malta

Gozo: the unspoiled island that’s just a short ferry ride away from Malta. You’ll find that despite its size and its relaxed vibes, Gozo offers plenty of activities and places to visit, making the island a destination of its own. Get ready to discover historical sites, crystal blue waters, limestone cliffs, and panoramic viewpoints. You’ll even savor some of the best cuisine of the Mediterranean Sea! Enjoy Gozo, Malta with this list of best things to do in and around the island.

Top 12 things to do in Gozo

Gozo is located in the northern part of the country and is the second-biggest island in the Maltese archipelago. Despite being more remote, there is plenty to see in Gozo. The island is a destination on its own, and deserves a few days to explore all its beauties!

Here, I have listed for you the best things to do in Gozo.

1 – Victoria (Rabat), the capital of Gozo

Victoria, or Rabat as the locals know it, is the capital city of Gozo and is home to a beautiful Citadel, with ancient narrow streets, red-domed cathedrals and old limestone houses.

The most memorable place to explore in Victoria is the Cittadella . Within the Citadel, you’ll find historic buildings, museums and even an old prison (covered in prisoners’ graffiti). The Citadel also offers a spectacular view over the whole island, all the way down to the sea.

The Citadel is open for walking around and is particularly beautiful to explore first thing in the morning, when the sun isn’t so intense and crowds are yet to gather. 

Good to know : while the Citadel itself is free, there is an entry fee for the sites, such as the visitors’ center, the museums, the prison, and the Gran Costello Historic House. Heritage Malta offers a “Discover Gozo” pass which includes several attractions all around Gozo. Purchase your ticket here .

Outside the Citadel, take the time to discover the old town of Victoria and its labyrinth of narrow alleyways. By wandering the streets, you will find unique sandstone buildings with fascinating balconies and shutters, but also beautiful squares along your way.  

Do not miss the beautiful St. George’s Basilica just off the main square It-Tokk. It is a historical Baroque church, built between 1672 and 1678. Covered with marble, this parish church is also home to a very impressive bronze and gold guilded canopy over the high altar, based on the design of Bernini’s in St Peter’s  Rome . But the main attraction is a statue of the patron saint, St. George, sculpted in wood in 1838.

2 – Blue hole and the remains of the Azure Window at Dwerja Bay

At Dwerja Bay, you can discover the famous Blue Hole, a natural circular rock pool carved out by thousands of years of wind and wave power. Even though it looks completely surrounded by rocks, an underwater arch located 10 meters below the surface links it to the sea, making it a unique geological formation. This area is considered as one of the most sought-after dive sites in the Maltese islands.

Dwerja Bay was most famous for being home to the Azure window, a natural arch created by erosion, which sadly collapsed in 2017 after a storm. Although the site gained a lot of popularity in recent years after being featured in Game of Thrones, it remained a beloved place for Gozitan and Maltese alike.

3 – Day trip to Comino

Between Malta and Gozo, there is Comino, the smallest of the three Maltese islands. It’s incredibly beautiful, with wild nature, crystal blue waters and very few inhabitants.

A day trip to Comino is a must-do when in Gozo. Once there, you can go on a boat tour for 12€/person and explore the incredible rock formations around the island. Hiking across the wild and rocky landscapes is another fun activity you can do in Comino. 

Things to do in Comino

• Blue Lagoon.  The Blue lagoon is the most popular attraction in Comino, and an absolute must-see in Malta. With its turquoise waters, it is a true paradise. Get there early, it gets crowded very quickly during peak season! 
• Crystal Lagoon  – The crystal lagoon is another beautiful lagoon in Comino. Though it is lesser known and rockier than the Blue lagoon, it is however more peaceful.
• Santa Maria Caves  – The journey to get there is quite the adventure: you need to pass through a cave tunnel from Santa Maria Bay! The Santa Maria Caves are famous for their fascinating cave systems and the variety of their marine life, which makes it a perfect snorkeling and diving spot!

How to get to Comino from Gozo : The main ferry runs between Mġarr (Gozo) and Comino every hour. Another option is to combine the trip to Comino with a boat tour to the caves and rock formations. Book it here .

4 – Ggantija Temples

The Ggantija Temples are a must-see during your trip to Gozo in Malta. These temples are a megalithic complex from the Neolithic age, and are a UNESCO Word Heritage site. They are more than 5500 years old, which makes them older than the Egyptian pyramids! Researchers don’t know how these giants limestone rocks were brought to the site but according to local Gozitan folklore, a giantess ( ggantija means ‘giant’) bore a child from a man, and with the child hanging from her shoulder, she built these temples and used them as places of worship. Archeologists and historians have since confirmed the temples are elements of a ceremonial site in a fertility rite.

Don’t forget to check Ta’kola Windmill

Next to the Ggantija Temples, you will find one of the last original windmills on the island. The Ta’ Kola Windmill was build in 1725 and is now a museum, where you can discover the miller’s workshop and rooms.

You can visit both of these sites with the Heritage Malta pass.

5 – Salt Pans

The Xwejni Salt Pans are one of the best things to do in Gozo. The 350-year-old checkerboard salt pans stretch about three kilometers along this northern coast and are a sight to remember. This site is believed to be the world’s oldest working salt pans, the tradition going back all the way to when the Phoenicians occupied Gozo (750 BC to 450 BC). The families harvesting the salt from the sea still use the traditional methods from Phoenician and Roman times. You can even buy salts from their shops, it’s quite a souvenir to bring back home.

6 – Watch the Sunset in one of these spots

Sunsets in Gozo can be quite spectacular. And there are gorgeous spots to watch the sun descend into the sea, painting the world in incandescent colors.

• The Blue Hole

• Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs

Rising more than 150 meters above sea level, these cliffs offer an amazing view over the sea from the coastline.

• Near the Xwejni Salt Pans

7 – Explore the incredible villages and churches of Gozo

L-Għarb is one of the oldest and most idyllic of all Gozitan villages. In the traditional main square, you will find a baroque basilica dedicated to the Visitation of Mary to Elizabeth. It was built between 1699 and 1729, making it one of the oldest parish churches still remaining on the island. It is often compared to Francesco Borromini’s Church of Saint Agnes in Piazza Navona, Rome . 

The traditional village of In-Nadur is famous for its beautiful views over the island and the sea. The baroque church dominates the village and is dedicated to the apostles Saints Peter and Paul. Its foundation stone was laid in December 1760, however the façade and aisles were built at the beginning of the 20th century. The feast of Saints Peter and Paul, also called “L-Imnarja” is celebrated on the 29th of June.

Ta’ Pinu Basilica

The Sanctuary of Ta’ Pinu is an architectural masterpiece located in the valley between the villages of Għarb and Għammar. It is a shrine dedicated to Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu and was built between 1920 and 1931.

Ix-Xewkija is the oldest village in Gozo and is popular for its spectacular church at the center of the village. Also called the  Rotunda due to its massive dome, it is the third-largest unsupported dome in the world (28 meters in diameter, 75 meters tall, weighting 45000 tons). It was built in the 20th century and is dedicated to St. John the Baptist.

8 – Wied il-Mielaħ Window

Though the Azur Window doesn’t exist anymore, there is another spectacular natural Window on Gozo. And this one is a true hidden gem, surprisingly unknown by most. Wied il-Mielaħ is a limestone natural arch on the north-western coast of the island of Gozo.

Good to know : The Window is located at the end of the Wied il-Mielaħ Valley and there is a direct road from Għarb. At the end of the valley, parallel to the old river bed, you’ll find a narrow staircase alongside the rock. That path will take you directly in front of the Window, and the view will leave you in awe.

9 – Tal-Mixta Cave

Tal-Mixta cave is located above Ramla bay , high up in the hills of Nadur . The natural rock window offers one of the most stunning views you’ll get to see on your trip to Gozo! This cave used to serve as a home to ancient inhabitants, the Troglodytes, a people that lived in caves. It later became a place for the Knights of St John to fire cannons and protect the bay from pirates. 

Good to know: the Tal-Mixta Cave is located on private property, but you are allowed to access the cave by foot. However be respectful of the owner’s privacy and do not venture outside the indicated path. It is less than a 5 minutes walk from the allowed parking lot (at the end of Triq I-Ghassa Tal-Mahrag road). If you don’t have a car, take the bus 322 from Mġarr to Ramla Bay . You also can hike to Tal-Mixta Cave from there, but be aware that the climb is abrupt and the hike lasts for 40 minutes.

10 – Wine Tasting at Tal-Massar

Wine production in the Maltese Islands dates back to the aforementioned Phoenician/Punic period, way before the Roman domination of the Mediterranean Sea. But what make Gozitan wines so particular? The answer is a mix of natural elements proper to Gozo: the climate, the sun exposure, the clay soil, the wind and last but not least, the sea salt which sprays the island regularly. All of these combined give the wines their strong, twisted flavors.  

And Tal-Massar Winery is the perfect place to learn everything you need to know about the delicious wines produced in Gozo! The family-run winery produces a variety of wines: white, rosé, red but also dry and sweet ones.

The family offers wine tasting sessions and a tour of their vineyards so visitors can learn about Gozo’s wine history, local food and culture. Best of all, you’ll be enjoying the winery’s refined wines with homemade food while admiring the view over the island during golden hour. 

11 – Best beaches

Gozo’s beaches are some of the best in the entire archipelago, which makes it a perfect destination for relaxing, swimming and simply enjoying the sun. Here are some of the best beaches of Gozo:

One of the island’s sandy beaches. It is a curving bay of red and gold colored sands. You can find Roman ruins buried under the sand, and the Calypso Cave overlooks the west of the beach.

Mgarr Ix-Xini

This is a small pebbly beach. Thanks to the cliffs surrounding the cove, the water remains undisturbed and perfect for swimming. It is also a popular spot for snorkelers.

Other nice beaches on Gozo:

• Hondoq ir-Rummien 
• Xwejni Bay Beach
• Wied Il-Għasri

12 – Diving in Gozo

Did you know Gozo is the best place to dive in Europe?

Waters are very clear and calm, the temperatures can go up to 28˚C in the summer months and visibility up to 30 meters! Gozo also offers a wide diving range, open to all levels, from first-timers to life-long divers. In total, there are around 80 dive sites on the island: therefore there is a spot for everyone. And since the island’s relatively small, you can easily access a wide variety of diving sites.

What particularly makes Gozo a great diving destination is the incredible underwater topography. First, you have the famous Blue Hole . This legendary dive into clear waters will take you to caves, drop-offs and chimneys, passages and arches dug into the limestone by millions of years of erosion, all combined with plentiful marine life! Secondly, you’ll be able to dive into deep caverns, calm bays and swim throughs all around the island. In addition, you can find three shipwreck sites in the waters at Xatt L’Ahmar.

You can also dive around the island of Comino , as it is home to some incredible diving sites, including Santa Maria Point and the Comino Caves. There is also the wreck site of the former patrol boat P31, scuttled…especially for divers!

How to get to Gozo

First, you need to fly to the main island, Malta. If you’re  renting a car , you’ll then need to drive to Ċirkewwa, at the northern end of the island, and take the Gozo Channel Ferry. Currently, it is the only way to bring your car to Gozo. The ferry journey only takes 25 minutes, and you’ll pay on your way back, at Gozo Mġarr Terminal. The ticket costs 15.70€ for a car and its driver, each additional passenger costs 4.65€.

Another option is to take the fast ferry from Valetta, which is a passenger-only ferry and lasts for 45 minutes. So if you’re not renting a car, that might be the most convenient alternative for you.

How to get around Gozo

The best option to explore Gozo is to rent a car from Malta and embark with it on the ferry. This will give you all the flexibility you will need while giving you access to more remote parts of the island. Book your rental car here. Be careful: in Malta, you drive on the left side of the road.

It is possible to take public buses between certain towns on the island, but public transportation is not always reliable.

If you decide to visit Gozo only for one day, you can hop on the red Gozo sightseeing bus. In two hours, you will see 14 different places on the island. 

Where to stay in Gozo

As Gozo is quite small and compact, you can easily and rapidly access all sites around the island if you rent a car. Therefore, you can choose to stay anywhere.

I stayed at Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz on the western side of the island. This five-star hotel provides amazing levels of service and comfort. Amidst a semi-tropical garden, it offers elegant rustic rooms and suites as well as a range of distinctive dining venues. One of them being L-Istorja, a gastronomic Maltese and Gozitan restaurant that I highly recommend.

The resort also features three swimming pools (one reserved for adults), perfect for sunbathing and swimming during the hot summer days. Book your stay here .  

If you’re not renting a car, staying in Victoria will be your best option, as it is central and best served by public transportation.

Best places to eat in Gozo

Gozitan and Maltese cuisines are a must-try. And there are many great restaurants all around the island that you can enjoy. My favorites were:

• Qbajjar restaurant, in Xwejni
• Maxokk Bakery for a delicious Gozitan Ftira (take-away), in Nadur
• One 80 Kitchen, in Mġarr
• Ta’Karolina, in Xlendi
• L-Istorja, Kempinsky’s gastronomic restaurant

Best time to visit Gozo

Gozo is beautiful all year round. Even during winter, the island enjoys a nice, pleasant weather. However, different seasons offer different experiences. The best months to visit are between March and October. More precisely, during summer, you will be able to enjoy festivals (June), beaches and European summer vibes. But it can also be quite crowded and hot. During the winter months, the landscape becomes much greener but you won’t be able to enjoy the beach, as it is cold, and you might experience some rain. 

Spring and fall are a lovely time to visit. You’ll be able to enjoy the places for yourself, as Gozo is more peaceful and less busy during those months.

A little word for the end

If you are looking to combine your trip in Gozo to one in Malta’s main island, check out my friend Charlotte’s blogpost about the best things to do in Malta !

Want say thanks for these recommendations or follow my adventures? Then I’d love if you could follow me over on  Instagram .

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Best Things To Do in Gozo, Malta

Gozo: Malta’s beautiful and undiscovered little sibling. The wild and natural island is more remote, peaceful, and relaxed than the main island of Malta , and it’s just a short ferry ride away, making it the perfect place to stay on your trip. Whether you’re visiting on a day trip or an extended vacation, you can look forward to discovering green hills, turquoise fringed pools, limestone cliffs, and panoramic viewpoints. You’ll even see some of the most ancient historical spots! Enjoy all the top things to do in Gozo, Malta.

9 Things to do in Gozo

Gozo is the second biggest island in the archipelago, sitting the farthest north. Despite being more remote, there is still plenty to do in Gozo, particularly for those who love beach hopping; some of Gozo’s beaches are the best in the whole area!

1. Victoria (Rabat) – Top thing to do in Gozo

Victoria is a beautiful fortified city, home to ancient narrow streets, red-domed cathedrals, beautiful gardens, and old limestone houses. Most people come to Victoria for its famous Citadel: an ancient fortress that sits high up on the hill.

Within the Citadel, you’ll find the remains of an old prison (covered in graffiti from the prisoners), museums, and medieval houses. The Citadel has spectacular views that look down over the sleepy farms and sea.

Citadel Entry Fee: The Citadel is free to enter, but you will need to buy a ticket to get into attractions such as the museum, prison, and the Gran Costello Historic House.

Outside of the Citadel, discover the winding maze of streets in Victoria. Choose a direction and enjoy wandering around, discovering beautiful squares along your way. Enjoy absorbing the buzzing atmosphere and join the locals in eating Pastizzi.

Here are all your hotel options in Gozo.

2. Ramla Bay, Gozo

Ramla Bay (Ir Ramla il Hamla) is known as the best beach on the island and is famous for its cliffs and red sand beach. It is one of the only sandy beaches on the island, so it’s very popular for those looking to swim in the calm shallows and snorkel in the clear, turquoise water.

Those interested in Greek mythology should head to the eastern side of the bay to one of the most famous caves on the island. Legend has it that this cave is the famous cave from the ancient Greek literature, Homer’s Odyssey.

Tip: For an adventure, hike 8km from the coastal vacation resort of Marsalforn. The walk is stunning, along the rugged coastline with beautiful views along the way of the sea.

3. Tal-Mixta Cave

Tal-Mixta cave sits high above Ramla bay, deep in the hills of Nadur (a small village). The rock creates a natural window that provides some of the most spectacular views across the sea and coastline; a top thing to do in Gozo! It’s thought that the cave was once lived in by Troglodytes (the ancient cave dwellers). Over the years, the function changed. For a time it was even used by the Knights of St John as a place to fire cannons from during pirate attacks. 

Good to know: The Tal-Mixta Cave is located on private property. You are allowed to access the cave but respect the owner’s privacy.

How to get to Tal-Mixta Cave

Drive to the end of Triq I-Ghassa Tal-Mahrag road. You can park the car at the end of the road before starting the 5-minute walk to the cave. It is also possible to walk to Tal-Mixta Cave from Ramla Bay but be aware that it’s a steep uphill climb of around 40 minutes. If you’re using public transport, take bus 322 from Mgarr to Rambla bay and hike up. 

4. The Ggantija Temples

The Ggantija Temples are a UNESCO world heritage site and a must-see on your trip to Gozo in Malta. These mammoth limestone structures are thought to be even older than the Egyptian pyramids! No one knows how these giant rocks came to be here, but the locals believe only giants could have brought them to this spot, which is why they are named Ggantija (meaning ‘giant’). Archeologists and historians have studied this site and believe it was used for fertility rituals hundreds of years ago. 

How to get to the Ggantija Temples: If you’re using public transport, take the 307 bus here from Xaghra.

Read : Top UNESCO World Heritage Sites

5. Ta’ Kola Windmill

Close to the Ggantija Temples is one of the last original windmills on the Maltese Island. The Ta’ Kola Windmill dates back all the way to 1725 where it was used to crush the grain into flour with enormous grinding stones. Nowadays, the windmill is a museum with recreated furniture where you can visit the miller’s workshop and living rooms.

We recommend to rent a car in Malta through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

6. Salt Pans

The Xwejni Salt Pans sit on the north coast and are one of the best things to do in Gozo. They are still used to harvest salt from the sea, using the traditional methods from Roman times. It’s possible to take a tour and learn about the process, or you can simply come and visit this beautiful part of the island. Looking at the checkerboard salt pans sitting alongside the rocky sea is a sight to remember. 

After visiting the salt pans, wander nearby and buy some salt from the local sellers as a memoir of your trip to Gozo. 

7. Ta Mena Estate

Ta Mena Estate is the perfect place to learn about the delicious food produced on Gozo! The family-run farm produces olive oil, wines, tomato paste, fruits, and cheese, among other products. They use traditional recipes passed down for generations from times when there wasn’t the technology to preserve food. In these times, the people of Gozo would use natural preservation methods, one of which is used to make the famous tomato paste at Ta Mena Estate .

Now the family offers guided tours and food tastings so visitors can learn about local food, culture, folklore, and the history of Gozo. Best of all, you’ll be doing so while you’re sitting amongst beautiful farmland and rolling green hills; it’s the perfect way to combine food and nature. 

8. Comino Day Trip 

Malta is comprised of 3 islands, and the smallest island is Comino, situated between Malta and Gozo. It’s incredibly remote and beautiful, with wild nature and very few people living there. Its name comes from cumin, and you’ll see the flowering plant growing all over the island, as well as many other wildflowers and herbs.

One of the best things to do in Gozo is to go on a day trip to Comino and enjoy hiking across the rocky and wild landscapes. There are no proper roads, and the secluded feel can make you feel like the only person in the world! 

Things to do in Comino

• Blue Lagoon. The blue lagoon is one of those bucket list things you have to see while in Malta. It’s intensely blue and feels like total paradise. However, it’s one of the most popular attractions in Malta so please note that in peak season it will be very busy! 
• Crystal Lagoon – The crystal lagoon is lesser known than the blue lagoon so it’s a bit more peaceful for swimming. It’s a bit rockier than blue lagoon, and not quite as intensely blue but it’s still a beautiful place to visit and the remoteness of it makes it feel very special.
• Santa Maria Caves – Malta really has it all, Caribbean island style beaches, turquoise lagoons, and even beautiful caves! The Santa Maria Caves are a famous spot for snorkeling – a unique spot where a variety of marine life live. The journey to get there is interesting too, as you have to pass through a cave tunnel from Santa Maria Bay.

How to Get to Comino

The main ferry leaves from Mgarr harbor every hour and costs 6.45 EUR for a return ticket.  The alternative is to join a Blue Lagoon boat tour , which may be a bit more expensive but gives you the benefit of having the boat to jump from instead of looking for a spot on the shore.

9. Beaches in Gozo

Gozo’s beaches are some of the best in the entire archipelago, famous for its diving and snorkeling with extraordinary cliffs, archways, and amazing marine life that lives within its network of caves. Some great beaches to visit in Gozo, Malta, are:

Mgarr Ix-Xini

Mgarr Ix-Xini is a tiny, pebbly beach surrounded by sheer cliffs which protect the cove making the water calm for swimming. Its crystal clear water and extraordinary marine life make it particularly popular with snorkelers.

Dwerja Bay was most famous for being home to the Azure window arch: an arch created naturally by the elements and the sea. It was used as a film location for Game of Thrones, and it was very sacred to the people of Malta, who saw it as a spiritual place to connect with nature. Sadly, it collapsed in 2017. However, the rocks in the water have now created a very diverse diving site. 

Hotels in Gozo 😴

At Dwerja Bay, you can also discover the Blue Hole: a 10-meter wide pool where amazing marine life lives like octopus and parrotfish. Pass through some mesmerizing archways and tunnels to reach the pool.

Other nice beaches on Gozo:

• Hondoq ir-Rummien 
• Xwejni Bay Beach

Read: Best Things to do in Malta Travel Guide

How to Visit Gozo

Start your journey by flying into Malta. If you’re planning on hiring a car , you’ll need to head to the northern tip of the island, to a place called Ċirkewwa, to take the Gozo Channel Ferry. The Channel Ferry is currently the only option to bring your car to Gozo. Although it is a bit more inconvenient to go to the north of Malta, the ferry journey only takes 25 minutes. ( See the ferry schedule here )

The fast ferry is a relatively new option. It departs from Valletta, which is very convenient and only takes 45 minutes. It’s a passenger ferry, so it is not possible to take your car, but it’s perfect for visiting Gozo on a day trip or if you don’t require a vehicle on your vacation. It’s also just a lovely way to travel, with beautiful views from the deck for the entire journey. You can even see Comino Island on your trip (where you’ll find the Blue Lagoon).

How to Get Around Gozo

Gozo is very remote, and public transport links aren’t always the best. However, it’s possible to take public buses between certain towns on the island. Another great option is to hop on the red Gozo sightseeing bus. It takes you to 14 different stops in 2.5 hours and includes an audio tour. 

The best option is to hire a car from Malta and bring it on the ferry. Doing this gives you more flexibility and the opportunity to drive to rural spots in Gozo.

If you’re visiting Gozo for the day, consider booking a private jeep tour from Mgarr Harbor. This way, you can ask your guide to take you to some of the best spots on the island, and you’ll have more flexibility. 

Where to Stay in Gozo

Victoria (Rabat) is the central city on the island and is a popular place to stay, with lots of hotels and all the best bars, restaurants, and shops. Marsalforn is also a popular choice: a charming fishing village with good amenities, easy access to the beach, and good connections to other places on the island. If you really want to embrace island life, book to stay in a countryside villa or a rural farmhouse.

Best Time to Visit Gozo

Gozo is beautiful at any time of year, although there are a few things to consider. During the winter months, the landscape becomes much greener and luscious. However, the sea is cold, and there is a high chance of rain. In the summer, it’s a top-rated holiday destination for people from other European countries and locals from mainland Malta. Although it’s the perfect time for a beach holiday, the beaches can get crowded. 

Fall is a perfect time to visit – the beaches are empty, and Gozo gets that remote, peaceful feeling back again after a busy summer of tourism. 

Best Cafes & Restaurants in Gozo

Even though Gozo is less visited, there is still a great selection of good restaurants all around the island. Our favorites were:

• Il-Kartell (Maltese cuisine)
• Alive Bistro (Vegetarian)
• Tepie’s (Coffee bar)
• Mojo’s
• Capitan Spriss
• Pasta Republic (Italian)

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The 18 best things to do in Malta and Gozo: culture, cuisine, and outdoor adventures

May 12, 2022 • 6 min read

From hearing the cannons roar in Valletta to kayaking the coast of Gozo, here are the best things to do in Malta © TheLiftCreativeServices / Shutterstock

Encompassing just 316 sq km (122 sq mi), Malta may be the world’s tenth-smallest country, but it still manages to pack in many diverse things to see and do.

These recommendations – combining world-famous attractions with a few under-the-radar surprises – to experience the best of this compact island nation at the heart of the Mediterranean .

Experience the roar of Valletta's famous cannons

Walking around Valletta , you'll probably hear an almighty bang at noon and 4pm. Make your way to the Saluting Battery to see what all the fuss is about, and combine the pomp of Valletta's ceremonial cannons – traditionally used to fire salutes to visiting naval vessels – and brilliant views across Grand Harbour to Fort St Angelo and the Three Cities.

Explore Malta's Three Cities in an electric buggy

Traveling in an eco-friendly electric buggy from Rolling Geeks, embark on a self-drive discovery of the piazzas, avenues, and sleepy backstreets of the historic Three Cities of Vittoriosa , Senglea, and Cospicua. Pre-programmed directions are handled by the buggies' onboard GPS, so it's impossible to get lost on a leisurely journey taking in museums, churches, and gardens.

Be challenged by contemporary art in Valletta

Inspired by Valletta's 2018 stint as a European Capital of Culture, several of the city's heritage mansions now showcase contemporary art. Galleries worth visiting for thought-provoking installations and sculptures include Valletta Contemporary and Blitz . Scheduled to open in 2023, Malta International Contemporary Art Space (MICAS ) will encompass around 7000 sq m (75347 sq ft) of galleries and exhibitions in a restored fort in the historic Floriana precinct.

Learn about "Fortress Malta" at the Lascaris War Rooms

Concealed 40m (131ft) below Valletta's Upper Baraka Gardens, the Lascaris War Rooms housed the Allies’ top-secret command HQ during WWII and were a vital part of the island's defense during the 18-month Siege of Malta from 1940 to 1942. Fascinating guided tours explore map rooms and communications centers restored to how they were during the war.

Hike the clifftop trails of southern Gozo

Tackle the Xlendi Walk, meandering for 12km (7.5 miles) from Mġarr Harbour to the rocky bays around Xlendi. En route, there's the improbably narrow cove at Mġarr ix-Xini, coastal watchtowers built by the Knights of St John in the 17th century, and a vertiginous stairway leading to the compact Carolina Cave. Buses from both Mġarr and Xlendi link to Victoria, Gozo 's historic capital.

Discover family-friendly science at Esplora

Focus on both education and entertainment with a visit to Esplora , which opened in 2016 as one of Europe's best interactive science centers. More than 200 interactive exhibits explore cosmology, plate tectonics, and Malta's natural history. The playground, well-kept gardens and an expansive rooftop terrace all offer brilliant views of Valletta and the Three Cities’ Fort St Angelo .

Swoon at classic cars

If you're renting a car, a compact Japanese or Korean option is probably best for negotiating Malta's winding and often narrow roads, but that won't stop you from being envious of the stellar array of automotive excellence at the Malta Classic Car Collection . Look for the blue vintage Bugatti sports car out front and you'll know you're in the right place.

Relax in Mdina's il-Foss

First created as part of the walled city's defensive bastion, a 21st-century makeover has transformed Mdina's historic il-Foss ( ditch gardens ) into a very pleasant place for a picnic and leisurely stroll. Overgrown tangles of ivy have been replaced by olive trees and a citrus grove, and the space is also used for occasional festivals and concerts.

Ease into the weekend with alfresco jazz

Make a beeline for Valletta's Bridge Bar , especially on a Friday night, when music fans spill out onto the city's honey-colored stairs and enjoy live jazz. Colorful cushions make it a comfortable impromptu concert, and the relaxed tunes usually kick off around 8:30pm and run through until midnight.

Kayak around Gozo's coastline

Idiosyncratic wind- and sea-eroded coastal formations and hidden sea caves make Gozo an excellent destination for sea kayaking. Gozo Adventures run half- and full-day kayaking trips, kicking off at Hondoq Bay on the island's south coast before crossing the Gozo Channel to Comino . Other kayaking destinations include Gozo's sheltered Inland Sea .

Harness Maltese ingredients at a cookery school

Focusing on how its place in the Mediterranean Sea has impacted Malta's culinary diversity, the Mediterranean Culinary Academy's menu of cookery classes includes experiences crafting ravjul (Maltese ravioli) and teaming Maltese wines with artisan produce including cheese, honey, and preserves. Local and sustainable ingredients are regularly used.

Dive into the amazing Blue Hole

Unfortunately, Gozo's famed Azure Window sea arch crumbled into the sea during a big storm in March 2017, but the surrounding Dwejra Bay coastline is still wildly spectacular. Boat trips exploring the nearby Inland Sea also take in views of the arch underwater in gin-clear Mediterranean waters, while it's also possible to dive in the nearby Blue Hole , a 25m (82ft) deep underwater limestone chimney.

Travel 500,000 years back in time at Għar Dalam Cave and Museum

Translating to "Cave of Darkness,"  Għar Dalam is a 145m-long (475ft) cavern carved into Lower Coralline Limestone, the oldest exposed rock in the Maltese islands. Ancient fossils, some up to 500,000 years old, have been discovered in the cave, representing the bones and teeth of dwarf elephants, hippopotamuses, and prehistoric micro-mammals.

Experience living history at Gozo's ancient salt pans

Negotiate quiet coastal roads and unsealed tracks on Gozo's northern coast to the often-windswept site of the Marsalforn salt pans . Cut into the coastal limestone by hand, the salt pans date from Roman times, and are still used to harvest salt between May and September. Rent a mountain bike in nearby Marsalforn, and make the 2km (1.25 miles) journey west to the salt pans.

Meet the locals at Malta National Aquarium

Five different aquatic zones – each representing different aspects of the waters surrounding Malta – make up the country's national aquarium . Specialist exhibitions focus on Valletta's Grand Harbour and Gozo's coastline, and more than 250 species are displayed in 50 tanks. A highlight is a 12m (40ft) walk-through underwater tunnel.

Climb high for Gozo's best views

Gozo's rocky and serrated coastline is one of Europe's best places for climbing. Many of the island's 300-plus sport climbs are focused on the southern coast, especially around the Munxar-Xlendi Valley, and further east at spectacular Mġarr ix-Xini. It's a good place to learn to climb, especially with Gozo Adventures who can also arrange bouldering and abseiling trips.

Make a difference with BirdLife Malta

Check BirdLife Malta's website for opportunities to join one of the organization's regular events promoting the protection of local and migratory avian species. Events could include after-dark experiences learning about the impact of light pollution on Gozo's nesting seabirds, or eco-walks around northern Malta's Park tal-Majjistral .

Tour Gozo on a Segway or e-bike

Hook up with Gozo Segway Tours – either on a Segway or an e-bike – to explore Malta's smaller and less-populous island. Options include an overland journey from the Marsalforn salt pans to the rocky and narrow coastal bay of Wied l-Ghasri , and then on to the immense Basilica of Ta' Pinu near the village Għarb.

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Cliffs and citadels: The best things to do in Gozo, Malta

Posted on Last updated: April 19, 2024

Discover the best things to do in Gozo, the unspoilt island that’s just a short ferry ride away from Malta, from Neolithic temples and historic citadels to red sand beaches, dive sites and scenic coast walks.

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With its unspoilt landscapes of turquoise pools, limestone cliffs, red beaches and green hills, all surrounded by the waters of the Mediterranean sea, Gozo is a riot of colours. Malta’s smaller neighbour is wilder and more remote than the mainland, with less visitors and a more laid-back feel, even though it’s only 25 minutes away by ferry.

Gozo’s proximity to Malta make it a popular day trip, but it’s worth staying longer if you can to see the sights and soak up the relaxed island atmosphere. And there’s plenty to see, with sandy beaches and great snorkelling and diving on the coast, and historic temples, towers and cathedrals inland. So here’s my guide to the best things to do in Gozo.

The best things to do in Gozo, Malta

Explore Victoria’s citadel

Gozo’s capital Victoria (also known as Rabat in Maltese) is a beautiful fortified city with an ancient fortress at its heart. The Il-Kastell citadel sits on top of a steep hill and has spectacular views from its ramparts out over Victoria and the surrounding countryside.

The hill the citadel lies on has been fortified since the Neolithic period, but the current fortifications were built by the Knights of St John to protect the city from Ottoman attacks, and until the 17th century all residents would have to sleep inside its walls.

Inside the citadel’s maze of narrow streets you’ll find the 17th-century Baroque Gozo Cathedral, as well as the remains of an old prison. There are also museums dedicated Gozo’s archaeology, folklore and nature, and shops selling local lace and crafts.

Visit Dwejra’s Inland Sea and Blue Hole

Dwejra was best-known for the Azure Window – a 28-metre-high natural rock arch which was one of the icons of Gozo (and a filming location for Game of Thrones ). But it was slowly being eroded by the sea, and finally collapsed after a storm in March 2017.

But even without the window, Dwejra is well worth a visit for its dramatic limestone cliffs and clear blue waters. Divers can head into the Blue Hole, an enclosed pool linked to the sea by an archway eight metres below the surface. It’s home to parrotfish, eels, lobsters and octopus – and you can also see the underwater remains of the Azure Window.

Or you can take a boat trip on the Inland Sea. The sea is really a lagoon is surrounded by steep cliffs, but small boats can squeeze their way through a 100-metre-long cave to reach the open sea, where you can see a rock formation known as Fungus Rock at the entrance of Dwejra Bay. Boat trips take around 15 minutes and cost €4 per person.

Discover the Ġgantija Temples

The Ġgantija Temples are a UNESCO World Heritage site over 5500 years old – older than both the Pyramids and Stonehenge. They’re the biggest and best preserved of 20 Neolithic temples in Malta, with two of them next to each other – north and south.

They’re built from giant slabs of limestone, some of which are five metres long and weigh over 50 tons, and no one is sure how they got there. Ġgantija means ‘giant’ and comes from the giants who were thought to have built them. They date back to 3600–3200 BC but fell out of use around 1000 years later, and were only uncovered again in the 19th century.

The visitor’s centre takes you through the history of the temples and has sculptures and artifacts discovered at the site. The temples are also near Ta’ Kola Windmill, one of the last original windmills on Gozo from 1725 which is now a museum of country life.

Hit the beach at Ramla Bay

With its red-gold sands, Ramla Bay in the north-east of Gozo is one of the prettiest beaches on the island. It’s one Gozo’s few sandy beaches, set on a long curving bay backed by rocky cliffs. The water is fairly shallow and calm so it’s a good spot for swimming, with toilets and a few cafés along the edge of the beach where you can get food and snacks.

For spectacular views of Ramla Bay from above, climb up to Tal-Mixta cave. You can reach the cave from the bay in around 40 minutes, though it’s quite a steep walk, and when you reach the top the cave mouth creates a natural window framing the bay.

See the salt pans at Marsalforn

Marsalforn is a popular holiday resort on the north coast of Gozo. But head a kilometre west of town and you’ll find the other-worldly landscape of the Marsalforn salt pans. These tessellating pools stretch for 3km along the coast and have been carved into the golden limestone rocks, creating a beautiful contrast with the deep blue of the sea.

The salt pans were originally built by the Phoenicians to farm salt, which was a valuable commodity. And they still work in the same way – from April to August sea water is pumped through a series of pools which concentrates the salt as the water evaporates until its ready to harvest. Most salt is used by locals, but you can buy it at roadside stalls.

Have a dip in Xlendi Bay

A former fishing village turned resort town, Xlendi is a secluded inlet surrounded by steep cliffs. Its turquoise waters make Xlendi Bay is a popular place to swim, snorkel and dive, with platforms where you can jump into the water as well as a small sandy beach.

You can also walk along the coast path to the Torri ta’Xlendi tower, which was built in 1650 to protect the bay from pirate attacks, with some beautiful views. And the town has a stretch of cafés and restaurants where you can have a seafood dinner by the water.

Admire Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary

Built on a remote hill with almost nothing around it, the Basilica of Ta’ Pinu is an impressive sight. There’s been a chapel here since at least the 16th century, but it became an important pilgrimage site after 1883 when a local woman heard the Virgin Mary speak to her from a painting in the chapel, which is said to have started off a series of miracles.

Visitors flocked to the chapel, which was replaced by a grand Romanesque building in the 1920s. Outside you can see mosaics and 14 marble statues representing the Stations of the Cross running up Ghammar Hill opposite. And inside you can see the original chapel behind the altar, as well as offerings made to the Virgin Mary by pilgrims.

Hike along the coast

At only 14km long and 7.3km wide, Gozo is fairly compact, and the coastal paths around the island are a great way to explore its unspoilt scenery. Gozo’s buses make it easy to walk in one direction and catch the bus back. Though it gets very hot in summer and there’s not much shade, so spring and autumn are better if you plan to do a lot of walking.

We hiked west along the coast from Mġarr harbour to sheltered Mġarr ix-Xini bay (4km one way). You can carry on past the dramatic Ta’Cenc Cliffs (8km), which are a good spot for sunset, to Xlendi Bay (11km). Marsalform to Ramla Bay (8km) is another good route. Or you can even walk all the way around the island on the 50km Gozo Coastal Walk .*

Take a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon

Gozo’s neighbour Camino is the smallest of the three Maltese islands, and is best known for the Blue Lagoon. This shallow, sheltered bay has bright blue waters and is a popular spot for swimming and snorkelling. Comino is almost uninhabited other than having one hotel so most people visit on a day trip , which is easy to do from Gozo as it’s so close.

There are ferries from Gozo’s Mgarr Harbour to Comino which take 15 minutes and cost €10–€13 return. But beware the Blue Lagoon gets very busy, especially from 10am–4pm during the summer months, and there isn’t much shade on hot days.

You can also rent your own boat (with or without a skipper) using SamBoat * if you want to visit Comino outside the busy times, or to explore more of the coast of Gozo.

Map of things to do in Gozo

The details

When to visit gozo.

Malta and Gozo have a Mediterranean climate, with hot dry summers, mild winters and plenty of sunshine year-round. Summer is peak season on the islands and can be busy and hot, with average high temperatures over 30°C/86°F in July and August.

Spring and autumn are great times to visit Gozo – visitor numbers and prices are lower but it’s still warm and sunny, with over eight hours of sunshine a day and average high temperatures of 20–27°C/68–81°F. Spring is good for walking and wildflowers, and autumn for swimming, with sea temperatures staying around 21°C/70°F into November.

Malta is a popular winter sun destination and Gozo never gets too cold, with average daytime highs of 15°C/59°F and nighttime lows of 9°C/48°F in January. But the island gets most rain December–February and ferries can be cancelled due to rough seas.

How to get to Gozo

Gozo is easy to reach from Malta by ferry, with two different routes. The main one is run by Gozo Channel Line and goes from Ċirkewwa in the far north of Malta to Mġarr harbour in southeast Gozo. The crossing takes around 25 minutes with frequent departures year-round. You can travel as a foot passenger or take your rental car over to Gozo.

If you don’t have a car you can reach Ċirkewwa by bus from Valletta (routes 41 and 42), Sliema (route 222) and Luqa Airport (route X1), which takes around an hour.

You don’t need to buy a ticket to travel from Ċirkewwa to Gozo, but you must buy one for the return journey. Tickets can be bought from Mġarr harbour and cost €4.65 for adults, €1.15 for children aged 3–12 and €15.70 for a car and driver.

The other option is the fast ferry from Valletta to Gozo, run by Gozo Highspeed , which is for foot passengers only. It departs from Lascaris Wharf Terminal in the Grand Harbour, takes 45 minutes and costs €7.50 one way for adults or €3 for children aged 4–10.

Or if you’re short on time, you can also take an organised day trip * to Gozo from Malta, which includes hotel transfers, lunch and an island tour. Or there’s also a combined Gozo and Comino tour * which adds on visits to the Blue Lagoon and swimming in Comino.

How to get around Gozo

Like Malta, Gozo has a good bus service, with 15 routes running across the island, normally once an hour in each direction (twice an hour for the Victoria to Mġarr service). The most useful routes for visitors connect Victoria with Mġarr harbour (301/303), Ramla (302), Ġgantija Temples (307), Marsalforn (310), Dwejra (311) and Xlendi (330).

There’s also a Gozo hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus * which connects the main sights so is a good way to see the island if you’re limited on time. It has two circular routes which meet in Victoria, and a 24-hour ticket costs €20 adults/€12 children aged 5-14.

You can also hire a car – though it’s a good idea to choose a small one as the roads on Gozo are narrow – or a moped or quad bike, or take a tuk tuk tour * around the island.

Where to stay in Gozo

The Duke Boutique Hotel * is in the heart of Victoria, located on top of a shopping complex with views over the citadel. It has a smart contemporary décor and many rooms come with a balcony or terrace, some of which also have their own private hot tub. It’s only 200 metres from the main bus station so makes a great base for exploring the island.

Or if you prefer somewhere a bit more peaceful, Cesca’s Boutique Hotel * is a stylish four-star property a 15-minute walk from Xlendi Bay. It has 18 rooms, including three suites with period features like stone walls and Maltese tiled floors. There’s a restaurant and bar, and an outdoor pool and terrace which looks out over the tranquil Xlendi Valley.

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Top Things to Do and See in Gozo, Malta

Gozo is the second largest of the three main islands in Malta’s archipelago. Its boasts beautiful beaches such as Ramla Bay, cliffs and caves, intriguing scuba-diving sites, ancient history and homegrown wine – all of which have helped to make this compact beauty a rising star of Mediterranean getaways. Here’s our guide for Gozo’s top attractions.

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Relax on Ramla Bay beach

Gozo’s only truly sandy beach meets a calm, clear sea that’s perfect for swimming. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available to rent across these golden grains, with an ice cream truck almost permanently parked at the entrance and a string of restaurant’s a stone’s throw away. When you’re done relaxing in the sun, take the sandy path on the hillside up to the Calypso Cave for a great view of the beach.

Book a tasting at Tal-Massar Winery

Book a tour of the Tal-Massar Winery to learn about the region’s wine-making process, in an expansive vineyard with a backdrop of the sea. The Mediterranean heat and ocean breeze create a distinctive climate for the the grapes here, which produce popular wines such as the semi-sweet Garb. Tastings come with authentic Gozitan treats – galletti (crackers) with dips, sheep’s cheese, home-made bread, sun-dried tomatoes and cold pressed olive oil.

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Step inside Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu Basilica

Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu Basilica is the most spectacular church in Gozo. On the edge of a sheer seaside cliff, it provides awe-inspiring views as well as a calming atmosphere. The origins of the golden-stone chapel date back to the 16th century, but one of its most exquisite features arrived in 2017: a set of 20 mosaics representing the Mysteries of the Holy Rosary. They curve around benches in the grounds, creating an open-air space for meditation and prayer.

Go scuba diving in the Blue Hole

Gozo is just as beautiful below the waterline as it is above. Its varied coast features caves and wrecks, coral gardens and rock formations – including the legendary Blue Hole, which is shaped like an upright tube and covered with colourful sponges. Gozo Aqua Sports Dive Centre offers a range of diving courses and excursions. The majority begin from shore, but there are also options for boat trip during the summer, such as to Comino Caves or P31 – a shipwreck 18m (59ft) down below.

Explore the ancient Citadel

At the heart of the Victoria area is the centre of the Gozo’s Bronze Age civilisation – the Citadel, or Cittadella. Parts of the colossal city walls date back to the 15th century, but most of the fortifications that you see today were built in the early 17th century by the Order of Saint John. Climb onto the battlements for views of the entire island, see the prison used by knights and step into the low-lit, baroque Cathedral of the Assumption.

Climb up Dwejra Tower

This 17th-century watchtower is squat in stature, but thanks to its position on a coastal vantage point, bonfires and smoke were effective methods to communicate with other Lascaris towers. The tower’s purpose? To prevent anyone not authorised from collecting fungus melitensis (Maltese fungus) from the area, which was erroneously believed to have unique medicinal properties. Recently restored, the tower is now open to the public and contains a restaurant selling traditional Maltese food.

Walk around the Ggantija Temple

Older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids, the Unesco-protected Ggantija Temple has been around for more than 5,500 years. Gozitan folklore surrounds this Neolithic complex – one legend is that is was the site of a fertility cult. Whatever its purpose, walking around the dual temples offers a fascinating insight into the artistic and technological development of early human life. The Interpretation Centre explains the history of the Neolithic period and displays prehistoric artefacts found in Gozo.

Delve into the legend of Calypso Cave

As the Maltese islands are predominantly made of limestone, they are pocked with caves both underwater and around the shore. The most famous on Gozo is Calypso Cave, where people come to enjoy the birds-eye ocean view, framed by the arch of the roof. According to the Greek legend of Homer’s Odyssey , this is the place where love-sick nymph Calypso seduced Odysseus. Below the cave, you can see the ruins of a defence fortification built by the Knights of Malta in the 18th century.

See the salt pans of Gozo’s north coast

The checkerboard sea pools of Xwejni Bay look like an elaborate art installation – but they are in fact centuries-old salt pans, with around 300 of them spanning two acres along the north Gozo coast. The traditional harvesting of salt still takes place here, in a process whereby the crystals are left behind by the natural evaporation of sea water. The natural resource is processed and stored in the caves along the coast – you can easily find jars of “white gold” for sale in Malta’s souvenir shops.

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13 fun things to do in Gozo 2024 – the sister island to Malta

While Malta is packed full of historic attractions, its sister island Gozo makes a quiet retreat that you can easily visit in a day. Here you’ll find a calmer atmosphere, with a fortified citadel, boat trips, turquoise bays for swimming and green countryside for walking. Read about all the things to do in Gozo and the 1 day itinerary we recommend, using public transport or hire car.

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Table of Contents

1. Victoria and the Citadel

Gozo’s capital of Victoria is located in the centre of the island, its elevated position allowing early warning of raids from the sea. The Citadel is a fortified 16th century city, contained within high walls and bastions, while the more modern part of Victoria, known as Rabat, lies outside the walls.

In 1551 Ottoman forces attacked Gozo and took almost all the population as slaves, after which the city was heavily fortified to make a sanctuary in times of attack. Until 1637 it was law for the population of Gozo to sleep within the citadel walls, but once the island became more peaceful, most residents moved outside the walls to Rabat.

It’s free to walk around the Citadel, although there is a charge to visit certain areas such as the visitor centre, cathedral and various museums within the walls. If you only have one day with lots more places to visit in Gozo, I’d suggest skipping the museums and just wander around the atmospheric old streets.

You will first arrive in the impressive central square facing the facade of the baroque cathedral dedicated to Santa Marija. Even if you don’t have a ticket to visit the cathedral and museum, you can still step inside the front to make a photo of the interior.

Read about the Three Cities of Malta – what to know before you visit

Views from the walls of the citadel

Continuing along the lanes behind the cathedral will bring you up onto the walls of the bastion, with views over the countryside.

As you circle around the outer walls, observe the remains of buildings that once housed numerous families, ending at a pleasant cafe to stop for a drink or a meal. Allow around an hour to walk around the citadel and two hours if you plan to visit the cathedral and museums.

Discover delicious Maltese food – where and what to eat

The Duke Boutique Hotel is well located in Gozo’s capital Victoria, with easy access to the rest of Gozo by bus.

After visiting the citadel of Victoria, walk down the hill and cross the main road, wandering through the lanes to St George’s Square. This pretty square has a number of cafes where you might like to sit with a coffee. It’s watched over by the St George’s Basilica, which is free to visit.

This is a good place to shop for local souvenirs and we especially liked the Preti Artigjaneli shop in the square, selling gifts inspired by Maltese doors and tiles.

Most bus routes around Gozo start from Victoria, so this is an excellent place to base yourself if you plan to stay on Gozo for a few days and don’t want to hire a car.

A great budget option for Gozo is Gawhra B&B in Victoria’s old quarter.

Top tours in Gozo

Gozo Hop on hop off bus – a great option that visits most of the main Gozo attractions and allows you to get off and visit the places that interest you most.

Tuk Tuk tour of Gozo and lunch with driver – A fun way to see Gozo by Tuk Tuk, with a driver so that you can sit back and relax.

Gozo full day Quad Bike Tour – The more adventurous will enjoy this quad bike tour around the beaches, beauty spots and points of interest in Gozo.

Self drive e-jeep guided tour of Gozo – This day tour of Gozo by jeep allows you to drive your own electric powered jeep in a convoy, with a leader to show you the way.

Two Island Tour: Blue Lagoon Comino and Gozo by Tuk Tuk – This tour will give you a late morning boat trip to Comino’s Blue Lagoon, followed by a Tuk Tuk Tour of Gozo.

Blue Lagoon and Gozo Tour by Quad Bike with dinner – Starting in Valletta, this full day tour includes 2 hours of swimming in the Blue Lagoon, followed by a Quad Bike tour of Gozo as the sun sets.

2. Xlendi Bay

From Victoria, head south towards the pretty bay of Xlendi, with clear turquoise water that’s great for swimming. Like much of Malta, the landscape of Gozo is starting to suffer from a building boom that creates high rise development around the bays like Xlendi and even more built up Marsalforn.

We found 6 story modern apartment blocks creeping up the hillside quite unattractive, but nevertheless the water here is clear and there are some excellent restaurants around the sea front.

If you are looking for a proper seafood lunch, this could be the place to stop for a while. Otherwise you can walk along both sides of the bay, and of course swim in summer.

Walks from Xlendi

The steps and cliff path on the north side of Xlendi bay leads you to a small sea cave known as Carolines Cave, which was gifted to the local Augustinian nuns as a secluded swimming spot.

On the south side of the bay, a path follows the rocky shore and leads you to the Xlendi tower on the headland. The walking trail continues along the cliffs, around another bay for views of the Snaap Cliffs and beyond as far as Sannat.

Happy and Healthy Gozo is a guest house on the outskirts of Victoria in Gozo towards Xlendi, with a pool and bike loan for guests.

3. Dwejra Inland Sea & Boat Trip

After calling in at Xlendi, I’d recommend heading next to Dwejra , on Gozo’s west coast. A highlight of our day in Gozo was the short boat trip from Dwejra inland sea around the cliffs and sea caves. This was the site of the famous Azure Window sea arch that was one of the top things to see in Gozo, but collapsed after a storm in 2017.

The grandly named “inland sea” is actually a small lagoon of sea water, filled through a narrow tunnel through the cliffs that takes you into the open sea. Small boats gather here, ready to take visitors out through the tunnel on a 20 minute boat trip, costing a modest €4.

There’s no booking required, just turn up and pay in cash, then the boats will leave once there are enough people – normally 6-8 people per boat. The trip takes you through the tunnel and into the open sea, past the impressive cliffs and into a couple of sea caves where the boatmen will point out the clarity and intense blue of the water.

It is permitted to swim through the sea tunnel and this is a popular dive site. However, I probably wouldn’t do this unless you are part of an organised diving trip, are an experienced open water swimmer and have a coloured marker float with you, since there’s a danger that boats may not see you.

Azure Window and Blue Hole

As you pass the cliffs you will spot the site of the Azure Window, a sea arch that was a popular tourist attraction until its collapse. A little further is The Blue Hole , a famous dive site in a limestone sinkhole that can be accessed by walking over the rocks.

After our short boat trip we walked over the rocky shore to take a look at the Blue Hole and the site of the Azure Window from the other direction. Among the rock pools, you can see small fossils of sea creatures embedded in the rock.

Set up on the shore is the Dwejra Tower , a square 17th century watch tower, which is open to the public. In Dwejra Bay is a bulbous rock formation, known as the Fungus Rock , which was the site of a medicinal plant that was much valued by the Knights of St John for its healing properties.

Dwejra Bay and inland sea can be reached on the 311 public bus from Victoria, is a stop for the hop on hop off bus and is included in most tours of Gozo. There is a car park there if you are driving and a small cafe for a coffee or lunch.

The luxurious Kempinski Hotel in the village of San Lawrenz has an on-site spa and resort style facilities

4. Ta’Pinu Shrine

The road to Dwejra Bay will take you through the village of Gharb, where there are a couple more stops you might like to make. Ta’Pinu Shrine stands alone surrounded by countryside and the scene was especially pretty when we visited in spring, with the wild flowers blooming by the roadside. This basilica is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin of Ta’Pinu, and is built on the site of a smaller 16th century chapel.

There are many stories and miracles attributed to the church, making it a holy place of pilgrimage for Catholics. In 1575 when the chapel was due to be demolished, the first workman to strike a blow broke his arm, which was taken as a sign that work should cease.

Later in the 1880s a local woman named Karmni Grima heard a voice calling from the church for her to say three Hail Marys. A local farmer and healer Francis Merċieċa helped many local people in the name of Our Lady of Ta’Pinu. As a result of their devotions, word spread and many pilgrims began to visit the small chapel.

Building of the Ta’Pinu Basilica

In the 1920s, the current much larger church was built on the site of the church which was subsequently visited by three different popes who offered prayers in the basilica. The exterior and approach to Ta’Pinu shrine are impressive, with coloured mosaic on each side of the piazza showing scenes from the life of Christ.

On the opposite side of the road you can climb Ghammar Hill to pass the 14 stations of the cross and get a nice view back towards the Basilica.

Inside the Basilica, the interiors are relatively simple compared to the full on gold and vibrant colour of other churches in Malta. There is an impressive central altarpiece and the original chapel remains but is hidden behind the sanctuary.

In the nearby village of Gharb is the Karmi Grima museum , named after the local woman who heard the call of Our Lady at the Ta’Pinu chapel. The basilica is one of the Gozo attractions that demonstrates the strong Catholic faith in the islands of Malta and is an interesting stop for a short visit.

Tuk Tuk tour of Gozo with lunch and driver – A fun way to see Gozo by Tuk Tuk, with a driver so that you can sit back and relax.

Gozo full day Quad Bike Tour – The more adventurous will enjoy this quad bike full day tour around the beaches, beauty spots and points of interest in Gozo.

Self drive e-jeep guided tour of Gozo – This day tour of Gozo by jeep allows you to drive your own electric powered jeep in a convoy, with a leader who will show you the way.

5. Ta’ Dbieġi Crafts Village

If you are interested in locally made crafts and souvenirs, the Ta’ Dbieġi Crafts Village in Gharb provides a one stop shop of local artisans and craft stores. The low buildings were previously used as a military camp, now repurposed as a small complex of different shops. Each one houses different crafts like hand made pottery, metalwork, leather, lace and glass blowing.

In high season many of the craft workers can be seen giving demonstrating their crafts, although it was quiet when we looked around. There’s a small cafe serving traditional dishes at lunchtime as well as an artisan bakery that has a great selection of local cakes and pastries.

The Crafts Village could be easily combined with a visit to nearby Ta’Pinu Shrine and is on the road to Dwejra Bay, so worth a stop if heading in that direction.

6. Wied Il-Ghasri

After visiting the sites around Gharb, we headed towards Gozo’s northern shore. Wied Il-Ghasri is one of the inlets that cuts into the limestone cliffs on the coast of Gozo. This narrow gorge like valley cut into the limestone ends at the sea, where there’s a small beach for swimming.

Use an online map to find the location, but leave your vehicle parked by the main road and walk a short distance along the stony track to the top of the gorge. We did see vans and jeeps driving down the unmade track but it looked far too rough for us to want to risk our hire car!

Above the beach are stone steps that lead you down, offering lovely views of the inlet, with its clear, green water. When the sea is calm this a relaxing place to swim and snorkel, with the steep sides of the gorge rising on either side.

A little further west along the coast, and accessible by a walking trail along the clifftop, is the Wied il-Meilah rock arch. The arch is a smaller version of the Azure Window at Dwejra that collapsed and there’s a stairway leading to a viewing point. Both spots are connected by the Ta’ Ġurdan walking trail that makes a circular route from the village of Gharb.

You can walk along the top of the cliff on one side of Wied il-Ghasri, which would be a lovely picnic spot. The whole valley is known for its wildflowers, prickly pears and capers that grow along the stony walls of the valley.

7. Xwejni Salt Pans

There are salt pans in several locations around Malta and Gozo, but the best place to see these close up is Xwejni on Gozo’s north coast. After visiting Wied Il-Meilah, we followed the coast road where it’s easy to spot the salt pans creating a photogenic chequer board effect, close to sea level. Park by the roadside and wander down to take a closer look at the salt pans, that were hand cut from the limestone bed rock.

Salt is mostly harvested through the summer months, using sea water that is pumped into the shallow pools. After the water has evaporated, the salt crystals are swept up and made into piles, so the sun can dry the salt further.

In the past large quantities of salt were produced for preserving food. These days it’s more of an artisan craft, continued by just a few families. Stop at the small salt shop near Xwjeni Bay, to buy a bag of the salt to take home, for an authentic souvenir of Malta and Gozo.

If you want more space for a family or group, check out these Villas to rent in Gozo.

8. Xwejni Bay

After driving past the salt pans, if you want a peaceful spot to relax and swim, we’d recommend Xwejni Bay . This sheltered bay is not as built up as some of the other seaside spots on Gozo. It was quiet when we visited in spring, but gets quite busy in high season. There’s a small stony beach, with other rocky places to enter the water.

As the shore is somewhat rocky it’s a favourite place on Gozo for diving and snorkelling. There are a couple of cafes along the seashore and we especially enjoyed our lunch at Crab Shell Kiosk , a cool trailer restaurant with outdoor seating and a great beach view.

9. Ġgantija Temples

The Ġgantija Temples are one of a number of Neolithic sites in Gozo and Malta. They were built around 3000 years BC when there seemed to have been a thriving culture of temple building. Entrance is through the Visitor Centre where there’s lots of information about the history of the site and some artefacts such as small female figures, thought to be fertility symbols.

The temple site is approached via a walkway that leads around the site and then takes you into the temple enclosure. Unfortunately the appearance of the stone structures is marred by protective metal scaffolding in place that is required to keep certain sections from collapse.

There are two adjoining temple structures, with high walls built of enormous stone boulders that would have originally been even higher. Inside each structure, the stone slabs are formed into altars and hearths, some with holes formed into the rock that played some part in rituals and ceremonies.

Very little is known about the people who built these temples, but they required a considerable amount of skill and communal effort to manage the huge blocks of stone. At the time they were built the temples would have been highly visible across the landscape, standing out in the same way that church spires do today. We recommend allowing at least an hour to see the visitor centre and the Ġgantija Temples .

To reach the Ggantija Temples by public bus, take the Route 307 bus from Victoria and the hop on hop off bus also stops here.

10. Ramla Beach

Most of the swimming places on Gozo are rocky or pebble, the exception being Ramla Beach. The broad beach is known for its red orange sand and is probably the best beach in Gozo for swimming and relaxation. Parking is along the road that leads to the beach, with a turning and drop off point where the road ends at the beach.

Set back from the beach at the end of the road are a couple of beach cafes. You can reach Ramla Beach on the Route 302 public bus from Victoria, and the hop on hop off bus also stops here. Many organised tours will also bring you here for a swim, since it’s one of the most popular beaches in Gozo.

11. More beaches on Gozo

There are a few other beaches worth mentioning, though none are as accessible, or as sandy as Ramla beach. These are places to bring your beach shoes to protect your feet as well as your mask and snorkel.

Mgarr ix-Xini – a deep bay on Gozo’s south coast, with clear water and steep sided cliffs that are favoured by climbers. The small pebble beach is where Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt filmed scenes from “Beside the sea” in 2015.

Hondoq ir-Rummien – located on Gozo’s south coast facing Camino. Surrounded by a rocky shore this is a favourite spot for snorkelers who can swim into the small sea caves. There’s a small sand and pebble beach, with ladders from the rocky shore to spots where you can jump into the water.

Dahlet Qorrot – a small pebble beach with clear water on Gozo’s north coast. There are fishermen’s huts with colourful painted doors cut into the rock face by the beach.

The 5-star Hotel Ta’ Cenc & Spa in Sannat features swimming pools, tennis courts and beach access

12. Tal-Mixta Cave

In the cliffs above Ramla Bay is a cave that makes a stunning viewpoint over the golden crescent of sand and surrounding countryside. Tal-Mixta cave is a favourite instagram spot, since you can get some fun photos sitting on the rock in the cave with the view behind you. Apart from being a lovely viewpoint there isn’t much else to do at the cave except take photos.

The best way to reach Tal’Mixta cave is by driving, locating the cave on a mapping tool. You can’t drive all the way up to the cave so at the final fork in the road, leave your car by the roadside and walk the remaining 5 minutes. There are lovely views over the beach even from the path.

You’ll probably see other people walking down some steps into the cave, but it’s not that well signposted. Be aware that the cave in on private land, so be respectful of your surroundings when you visit. Other than driving, it’s a hot walk for 40 minutes up hill to reach the cave from Ramla Beach. Most tours of Gozo will bring you to the cave, but the nearest bus drop off point is at Ramla Beach.

13. Boat trip to Comino and the Blue Lagoon

Close to Gozo is the smaller and uninhabited island of Comino, the smallest of the three islands in Malta’s archipelago. In summer it’s a popular spot for boat trips, but even if you don’t take one you can see Comino as you pass on the ferry.

The most popular spot in Comino is the Blue Lagoon, a sheltered area of turquoise water off Comino’s shore that’s ideal for swimming. As we were there in spring, it was too cool for a boat trip, but in high season this area becomes super busy with boat trips and the small beach and shore is extremely crowded. There is a kiosk for food in high season but otherwise Comino offers few facilities and you should take everything you need for the day.

Boat trip options

Even though The Blue Lagoon is in sight of Gozo, most of the boat trips leave from Malta, departing from Bugibba in St Paul’s Bay or the ferry fort of Cirkewwa. If you’d like to visit the Blue Lagoon from Gozo, there are some ferries that run from the main ferry port at Mġarr Harbour.

Alternatively, take one of the tours offered by Gozo tour specialist Yippee that combine a tour of Gozo with a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon in Comino.

Two Island Tour: Blue Lagoon Comino and Gozo by Tuk Tuk – This tour will give you a late morning boat trip to Comino’s Blue Lagoon, followed by a Tuk Tuk Tour of Gozo. Book here .

Blue Lagoon and Gozo Tour by Quad Bike with dinner – Starting in Valletta, this full day tour includes 2 hours of swimming in the Blue Lagoon, followed by a Quad Bike tour of Gozo as the sun sets. Book here .

A day trip to Gozo – 1 day itinerary

Since many people take a day trip to Gozo from Malta, here’s our suggestion for a Gozo 1 day itinerary. Both these options assume that you arrive in Mgarr harbour by 10am so that you can make the most of your day on Gozo.

Gozo 1 day itinerary – By hire car

Gozo by hire car – morning.

• After picking up your rental car , head to Victoria. We hired a car from Mayjo car hire who are based in Victoria, so we left the car with them while we looked around. You’ll need 1-2 hours to see the citadel and visit St George’s Square where you can stop for a coffee.
• Next, drive to Xlendi which is a great place for lunch at one of the seafront restaurants overlooking the bay. Otherwise you can just take a walk on the cliff paths on either side of the bay.
• Take the road back to Victoria then continue west to Dwejra. Optional stops on the way are the Ta’Pinu shrine and the Ta’Dbiegi craft centre. At Dwejra take the short boat trip to see the sea caves. Expect to spend around 1 hour here.

Gozo by hire car – afternoon

• There’s plenty more Gozo sightseeing for the afternoon, but you may have to make some choices depending on your interests.
• Option 1 – head for Wied Il-Ghasri for a swim in the rocky inlet, then drive along the coastal route overlooking the Xwejni Bay salt pans, with a stop at one of the cafes in Xwejni Bay.
• Option 2 – drive along the north coastal route past the salt pans, through Marsalform (stop if you wish but we thought Xlendi was nicer) and end the day at Ramla Beach. You can also drive above the beach to visit the Tal-Mixta cave.
• Option 3 – if you are interested in the pre-history of Gozo, drive along the north coast past the salt pans then visit the Ggantija temple.
• Finally if you have time, stop at one of the bakeries in Nadur for some Ftira, Pastizzi or Qassatat traditional pastries as a snack for the way home.
• Return to the Mgarr ferry port to catch your ferry back to Malta.

Quaint Boutique Hotel Nadur combines a taste of village life with sleek minimalist decor. Also check their hotels in Sannat and Xewkija

Gozo 1 day itinerary – By hop on hop off bus

Gozo by hop on hop off bus – morning.

• The hop on hop off bus does not visit all the places you can reach by hire car, but there’s still lots to see and you will have to make some choices.
• Take the hop on hop off bus at Mgarr harbour and get off in Victoria, Gozo’s capital. Spend around 1.5 hours to see Victoria and the citadel, but don’t linger too long as there’s lots more to see on Gozo.
• Back on the bus, alight at the next stop of Xlendi port, where you’ll have time for a coffee and a walk around before catching the next bus.
• Your next stop is Dwejra, where you’ll just have time for a 20 minute boat trip before the next bus arrives.

Gozo by hop on hop off bus – afternoon

• Taking the hop on hop off bus from Dwejra to Victoria, you will see the Ta’Pina shrine from the bus which may stop for a 5 minute photo stop, but you probably won’t have time to look inside.
• Stay on the bus through Victoria and depending on your time remaining you’ll probably have time for 1 more stop before heading back to the ferry port.
• Option 1 – stop at Marsalforn – we thought the resort was rather spoiled by high rise building, but there’s a good choice of sea front restaurants if you’d like to eat with a view of the bay.
• Option 2 – stop at Ramla Bay to relax and swim on the beach. There are a couple of beach cafes open here in high season.
• Option 3 – stop at the Ggantija Temples to see the prehistoric stone temples and visitor centre, there’s also a cafe at the site.
• Whichever option you choose, keep an eye on when the next bus will be coming, to ensure you have time to get back to Mgarr ferry port and return to Malta.

Where to eat in Gozo

There are lots of locations in Gozo for something nice to eat;

Victoria – the prettiest spot is St George’s Square where there a number of cafes overlooked by St George’s Basilica. There’s also a cafe with a view in the Citadel, and many other options for lunch and dinner in the parts of Victoria outside the citadel walls.

Xlendi – this would be our recommendation if you want a seafood lunch in one of the restaurants overlooking the bay.

Marsalforn – this resort on Gozo’s northern coast also has a good range of restaurants along the seafront. The resort is bigger than Xlendi and to be honest we found the large number of high rise buildings so close to the sea quite unattractive. Still if you are sitting in a restaurant looking out to sea the view is very nice.

Xwejni – if you want a light lunch with a view we thought this bay was very pretty and we enjoyed the salads and traditional dishes at The Crab Shell Kiosk .

Dwejra Bay – there’s a small cafe overlooking the inland sea, serving drinks and light dishes.

Nadur – this town close to the ferry port is known for its bakeries, we stopped at Mekren Bakery on the main road to pick up some pastries, but there are a couple more bakeries in town.

A Picnic in Gozo

If you’d love to eat local and delicious food in the most scenic spots of Gozo, then get in touch with Ana from Gozo Picnic . Her business started when she began finding the best picnic spots to have lunch with her young daughter, preparing healthy food to share outdoors.

Now Ana offers a service to visitors on Gozo who want a unique experience, and will set up your picnic with tables, cushions, cloths and of course delicious, locally inspired food. Each experience is different and you can discuss whether you’d like your picnic to be on a sandy beach, secluded cove or rural beauty spot.

We tried some of the Gozo Picnic dishes for lunch at the citadel in Victoria, Gozo with lots of local specialties. Ana prepared the Bigilla bean dip with crunchy vegetables, Maltese sausage, miniature sheep cheese tarts and some carob brownies to finish with spiced Maltese coffee. It was all beautifully presented with local flowers and fresh herbs.

Beer and wine in Gozo

There are a couple of wineries in Gozo that offer tastings, but you ideally need to book in advance.

Tal-Massar – close to the village of Gharb, this boutique winery offers pre-booked tours and tastings on Tuesday and Saturday or at other times by arrangement.

Ta’Mena – close to Marsalforn, the winery also grows fruit and vegetables to make into traditional Gozitan condiments, liqueurs and preserves. A 2 hour wine tour and tasting can be pre-booked by contacting the winery.

Lord Chambray is a craft brewery based on Gozo that offers a 45 minute tour and beer tasting at their tap room close to Xewkija. The tap room is also open to serve draught beers or bottles to take away.

How to get to Gozo – the Gozo Ferry

There are two options for taking the ferry from Malta to Gozo; a car and passenger ferry from Ċirkewwa in the north of Malta and a passenger only fast ferry from Valletta. Both ferry services arrive in Mġarr, the main harbour on the south coast of Gozo.

Car ferry to Gozo

The car and passenger ferry is operated by Gozo Channel and runs every 45 minutes through the day. The crossing time is around 25 minutes, with a cafeteria on board and plenty of indoor and outside seating. The cost for an adult foot passenger is €4.65 and for a car plus passenger €15.70.

If travelling from the Malta side you do not need to buy a ticket before embarkation. Instead you pay for your ticket on the return journey from Mġarr harbour in Gozo. Ferry tickets are only sold for this ferry at the Mġarr ferry terminal in Gozo and this system is in place to ensure quick and efficient loading of the ferries.

We used this ferry service as a foot passenger and enjoyed the sunny weather and views from the upper deck of Comino on the way over. The Gozo ferry schedule is available on the Gozo Channel website.

To reach the ferry port at Ċirkewwa in the north of Malta, you can take the bus from Valletta, the airport and from other villages in Malta. If you have rented a car in Malta, you can also use this to drive to Ċirkewwa, then cross on the ferry and drive around in Gozo.

Gozo Fast Ferry from Valletta

The Gozo fast ferry runs from Valletta and is a convenient option for most people if you are travelling without a car, since it’s often easier to get to Valletta. The fast ferry runs from Lascaris Quay, which is easily reached by lift from the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

The ferry is operated by two different companies who share the service, with a crossing every 30 – 60 minutes. Journey time is around 45 minutes and the ferry fare is €7.50 one way.

You can check the Gozo fast ferry schedule on the operators’ websites – Gozo Fast Ferry and Virtu Gozo . Tickets can be purchased from these websites or from the ticket booth on Lascaris Quay in Valletta or Mġarr harbour in Gozo.

Be sure to check the websites of ferry operators before you set off, since ferry services may be cancelled in bad weather.

Getting around Gozo

Public bus in gozo.

There are regular buses public around Gozo, both from Mġarr harbour to the island’s capital Victoria and radiating out from Victoria to other parts of the island. There is a flat fare of €2 for any journey and this can be paid on the bus in cash or contactless bank card.

Most buses seem to run around once per hour, so this may not be the most convenient form of transport if you are just visiting Gozo for the day. Check the bus routes and timetables on the Malta Public Transport website .

Hop on Hop off bus

More convenient than the public bus, is the Gozo Hop on hop off bus which runs on a route that covers the main tourist sites. The bus starts at Mgarr ferry terminal in Gozo and tickets can be purchased there or online in advance.

The hop on hop off bus runs every 45 minutes on two different routes, that cross over in Victoria, so that you can move from one to the other. If you decide to stay on the bus, the whole circular route will take around 2 hours.

This is a good option to see the highlights of Gozo in one day, but you need to decide in advance which stops will interest you most. The cost of the hop on hop off bus is €20. Book the Gozo Hop on hop off bus in advance here.

Day tours of Gozo

While the public and hop on hop off buses cover most of the key sites, there are a few places that are difficult for larger buses to reach, such as some of the swimming coves or the Xwejni salt pans. If you’d like to have more flexibility, then we recommend that you book on one of the day tours of Gozo, either with a driver or self drive option.

Gozo full day Tuk Tuk tour and lunch with driver – The tuk tuk tour is provided by Yippee Tours and is a fun way to get around Gozo, with a driver so that you can sit back and relax. The tour includes a private crossing from Malta if required and will take you to the key spots around Gozo, some that the buses cannot reach. The drivers are multi-lingual and will act as your tour guide, explaining about things on Gozo.

Full day Quad Bike Tour of Gozo – The more adventurous will enjoy this quad bike full day tour provided by Yippee Tours. You drive the quad bike but are part of the guided group that will take you to beaches, beauty spots and points of interest in Gozo. The tour includes a light lunch and private boat crossing from Malta, with a pass by the island of Comino on the way back.

Gozo self drive e-jeep guided tour – This day tour of Gozo by jeep allows you to drive your own electric powered jeep in a convoy, with a leader who will show you the way. The tour allows you to explore Gozo’s backroads and beaches as well as some major landmarks. A boat crossing from Malta is included and a light lunch is provided.

Car rental in Gozo

The most flexible option for getting around Gozo is to hire a car , and we found that this was an economic option, especially if you have two or more people sharing the cost. Car hire on Gozo enabled us to see all the main sites we wanted to visit, as well as the beauty spots that are more difficult to access by public transport.

We could go at our own pace and stop whenever we wanted. Coming from England, we found that the roads on Gozo were relatively quiet and easy to navigate. The exception was around Victoria where there is a one way system and traffic congestion, since all roads seem to pass through the island’s capital.

You can compare prices and book rental cars on Gozo here . Car hire providers can have a mixed reputation on Malta and Gozo, so be sure to check the scores and reviews before booking. Consider hiring an electric or hybrid car where available to reduce your carbon footprint.

Local companies often seem to have a better reputation for service and we hired a car for one day from Mayjo Car Hire based in Victoria. They collected us at the ferry terminal in Gozo and drove us to their office in Victoria where we picked up the car. Then at the end of the day, we left the rental car at the ferry port. We can recommend Mayjo Car Hire for their excellent service and quick response to booking queries.

When choosing your car, the island is small and you don’t need an especially powerful car. In fact, smaller is probably better, since the country roads in many places around Gozo can be quite narrow. Check prices for rental cars in Gozo here.

Where to stay in Gozo

Gozo has plenty to keep you busy for a few days or even longer if you just want to relax in nature and spend time walking or swimming. For those on a budget or not wanting to hire a car, it’s best to locate yourself in Gozo’s capital of Victoria. From here there are easy bus routes to most of the main points of interest on the island.

Other accommodation in Gozo’s villages offers a relaxed taste of country life, but you will probably need to hire a car to get around. Here are some of the places we recommend to stay in Gozo , or check out more hotels in Gozo .

Happy and Healthy Gozo is a guest house on the outskirts of Victoria in Gozo, with a pool and bike loan for guests.

Best time to visit Gozo

Malta and Gozo are year round destinations, located in the sunny southern Mediterranean close to Sicily. I would probably not visit Gozo in the winter months since there are fewer formal attractions than Malta. However spring and autumn are wonderful times to visit with sunny days but cooler temperatures for sightseeing.

If you like to swim and relax on the beach then June and September are excellent times to visit. I’d probably avoid July and August when the temperatures can be searing, the crowds at their greatest and many Maltese head to Gozo for their holidays.

How long to I need in Gozo?

Gozo makes an ideal day trip from Malta and by taking a tour or using the hop on hop off bus you can see many of the attractions and have a fun day out.

If you have more time, then staying for 2-3 days on Gozo will enable you to get a good feel of the island at a more relaxed pace, with time for hiking and swimming.

For a relaxed sunshine holiday of a week or more, Gozo has a lot to offer and we preferred its slower pace of life and greener countryside to Malta, which is quite built up and congested around its resort areas.

Sustainable travel in Gozo

To support sustainable travel in Gozo we recommend the following;

– If visiting Gozo for the day, look at more sustainable and relaxing options for getting around such as hop on hop off buses or tours that have a lower carbon foot print. If you plan to stay a few days on Gozo, the public bus service from Victoria will take you to many of the points of interest on the island.

Car hire is a flexible option if you need to see a lot in a short time and in this case we prefer to support family businesses like MayJo that have a good reputation for service. Consider hiring a hybrid or electric car where available to reduce your carbon footprint.

– The tap water in Gozo and Malta is safe to drink, but is from desalinated sea water, which may give it a particular taste. For this reason locals and restaurants prefer to use bottled water to drink for reasons of taste. To reduce the amount of plastic and glass waste, it’s better to request and drink local tap water and not buy bottled water.

– When eating out, ask questions as to which menu items are based on local produce and ingredients. Order vegetable dishes based on what’s in season, fish that is locally and sustainably caught, or meat that’s locally produced. Support restaurants that work with local food producers.

Read my article about all the Delicious Food in Malta and Gozo

More articles about Malta

20 Best things to do in Valletta

Things to do in Malta in a weekend break

Enjoy the food and fireworks of a Maltese Festa

21 best things to do in Malta

Need a guide book for Malta? We recommend the Pocket Rough Guide to Malta and Gozo

Plan your trip to Malta

For more information on things to do in Gozo visit the official Visit Gozo Tourism website and for Malta the Visit Malta Tourism website .

20 things to do in Valletta Malta

Delicious Maltese Food – where and what to eat

Things to do in Valletta, Malta in one day

Where to stay in Malta – best locations and hotels

A guide to Three Cities Malta – our top things to do

Some of the experiences mentioned were provided on a press trip hosted by Malta Tourism and British Guild of Travel Writers.

This article is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com

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15 best things to do in gozo: 2024 travel guide.

Gozo is without a doubt one of the most beautiful islands we have ever been to.

Perfectly situated in The Meditteranean Sea, there is so much to quickly love about Gozo; including the spectacular views and amazing weather.

Sure, it’s home to some of the worst drivers you will ever come across, but don’t let that put you off!

Instead, the chaotic, small windy roads on Gozo simply add to it’s charm as an old fashioned island to visit.

As a part of our month spent living in Malta , we had plenty of chances to explore Gozo and the many wonderful things to see and do there.

So, if you’re in the process of planning a visit to this wondrous little island, here’s my in depth Gozo travel guide to help you in planning your own unforgettable stay here .

First up ...

How to get to Gozo

There is one way to get to Gozo, and that is by ferry from Malta.

It runs very regularly all year round, though the routes do pick up in frequency during the busier summer months.

If you are driving yourself over to Malta, then you can check out the timetable here .

Getting around Gozo, Malta

Despite being such a small island, there are quite a lot of ways to get around Gozo.

Hiring a car

One of the most popular is to hire a car and drive yourself around.

If you are coming from the main island of Malta, then I can highly recommend hiring a car from Compass Car Hire , located in St Paul’s Bay.

They are the only car company in Malta that we could find which had positive reviews on Google, and it’s unsurprising why.

They offer fair rates and don't rip you off for ridiculous damage fees.

The one piece of advice I would give you when hiring a car in Malta or Gozo, is to get one as small as possible.

The roads in Gozo are extremely narrow and windy, so the smaller the better.

Also, only hire a car if you are a confident driver; not only are the roads pretty daunting and busy (especially in summer) but the drivers in both Malta and Gozo are awful.

They do not indicate and accidents are pretty common, so be warned.

Other methods of getting around

Other methods of getting around Gozo include:

• Moped - All car hire firms seem to offer mopeds as well. 
• Quad bike - This actually looks like so much fun, and is really practical as many of the roads in Gozo are bumpy, dirt tracks. You can book a day quad bike tour here .
• Segway - We saw groups of people out exploring the cliffs with these, again it looks like good fun! You can book a Segway tour here .
• Gozo Sightseeing bus tour - If you have just one day in Gozo, then this is a much easier way of getting around and seeing the best sites. You can book tickets here for Gozo Sightseeing bus tours .
• Hire a driver for the day - Again, much easier than driving yourself, and you get the benefit of an insider’s knowledge of what to do in Gozo. You can book a private driver from the day here .
• Hire a tuk-tuk for the day - That’s right, how about riding around in a tuk tuk for the day!? We saw these around the island a few times and looked like a lot of fun. Check out prices here .

Check out our guide on getting around Malta for more ideas on Gozo transport options.

Where to stay in Gozo (Malta)

Despite being so small, we were shocked to search Booking.com and find so many great places to stay!

Also, they are all very reasonably priced, with really nice accommodation with great views and breakfast included, coming in between 30 and 50 Euros a night.

We stayed at Fieldend B&B , a really lovely homestay, located in the northwestern end of Gozo.

The location is perfect if, like us, you plan on spending two days in Gozo.

It’s close to many of the island's best sites, and is in a great location for the sunset.

The breakfast was also amazing; with as much as possible homemade by the hosts themselves; including the chocolate spread, hummus and peanut butter.

You can check out prices and availability here if you are interested, I highly recommend it.

Here are a few other top choices for great accommodation & hotels in Gozo …

Budget Choice

B&b la Fenice by giancarlo

IL-Gardjola Bed and Breakfast 

Luxury Pick

Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz 

15 best things to do in Gozo

1. explore the ancient citadella.

One of the best places to visit in Gozo is the ancient Citadella, located in the capital city of Victoria.

The buildings and defences you see today date back as far as the early 1600s, though the area has been inhabited for many hundreds of years before that.

It really is a magnificent site and the local authorities have done an incredible job of restoring the Citadel, yet maintaining as much as possible of the original churches and other buildings.

You could easily spend half a day here, exploring the many museums located within its walls and taking in the epic views on offer from atop the walls.

It’s free to enter the Citadel, walk the walls and even go inside of many of the attractions.

However, you will have to pay if you wish to enter certain sites, like the cathedral and Archaeology museum .

2. Visit the remains of Azure Window

Up until March 2017, the Azure Window was widely hailed as the gem of Gozo!

It has been featured over the years in numerous television shows and movies, and we knew about it from Game Of Thrones (in the scene where Dhanerys Targaryn married Karl Drogo).

Well, as is the will of nature, this gorgeous natural arch was actually destroyed in 2017 as a result of natural winds and waves continually breaking over it.

I was surprised to find that there is no clear indication that a massive stone archway was even there.

Either way, it’s still a great spot to visit for a few different reasons; notably because it’s one of the most scenic picture spots you’ll find anywhere in Gozo, offering spectacular coastal views of the cliffs in both directions.

You also have the Blue Hole located right in front of it, one of the most popular spots for diving in Gozo . You’ll also find a restaurant here, as well as Dwejra Tower .

3. Take a boat tour out onto the water

Another great reason to visit Dwejra Bay and the remains of the Azure Window is that you can take a boat ride out from the Inland Sea (for just 4 Euros) that takes you through a small cave and to the spot where the arch once stood.

For just 4 euros I highly recommend taking this short ride, as you get the chance to gain a  unique perspective looking back at the dramatic cliffs.

You also get to see inside the caves and to look at the purple coral growing off the rocks there.

It’s a great experience as you get to see the beauty of the cliffs from a whole new angle, and also get to speak to a knowledgeable local guide who can answer all your questions.

4. Check out the Wied il-Mielah Sea Arch

Don’t worry, the Azure Window is not the only sea arch on Gozo.

Instead, Wied il-Mielah is another pretty epic sea arch, located just 15 minutes away.

Like the Azure Window, there is no entry fee to see Wied il-Mielah, and the views here are very nice.

The top of the window is still very thick, and many people choose to walk out and over it.

5. Admire the beauty of the Ta Pinu Basilica

Possibly the most stunning man-made structure on the island is the Ta Pinu Basilica (otherwise known as The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta' Pinu).

Even if you’re not religious, it’s hard to deny the epic beauty of the basilica , a pilgrimage point for thousands of Christians every year; this is easily one of the top 3 things to see in Gozo.

It’s so strange that such a large and commanding building is located with little else all around, except small homes and rugged cliffs and fields.

It’s free to go into the basilica and walk around and there’s plenty of parking outside.

6. Explore Gozo’s many other incredible churches

For such a small island with relatively few inhabitants, you will be surprised to see just how many grandiose, intricately designed churches there are all over Gozo.

Even before you disembark the ferry, you can see 3 or 4 large, ornate churches from the bay.

It’s free to enter them and it’s hard to go even 10 or 15 minutes without seeing another massive church in some small town on Gozo.

Here are 5 noteworthy churches that we stopped at off on our 2 days tour of the island.

• Church of Nadur
• Ghajnsielem Parish Church
• Church of the Madonna of Lourdes
• Qala Parish Church
• Rotunda Saint John Baptist Church (Xewkija Rotunda)

7. Relax in Marsalforn bay

There are small bays lining all of the coasts around Gozo, but Marsalforn is one of the most built-up and nicest ones to visit.

We visited for lunch and ate at Il Kartell , located right on the front.

If you’re a fan of fish dishes, then you will be spoilt for choice as the whole island is famed for its great-tasting, fresh fish dishes.

I’f you’re looking to spend a few days visiting Gozo, then Marsalforn could be a really nice place to base yourself for a few days as there are plenty of really nice restaurants and hotels here.

Such as these great value hotels ...

8. Walk by the Marsalforn salt pans

On your way further up the northern coast of Gozo, it's worth stopping and snapping a few travel photos at the Marsalforn salt pans.

They stretch for 3 kilometres all along the front, and it’s possible to drive the whole way along them.

They’ve been managed here by locals for roughly 350 years and, in the hottest, summer months, you will see local families out tending their pans; collecting their salt and taking it off to be sold.

It’s been supporting these families for generations, and there is a small shop here where you can buy some local produce and learn more about the history of the pans.

9. Head to Ramla Bay beach

There are wonderful beaches all around Gozo, in fact it's one of the best reasons to visit the island in the first place.

Arguably the nicest sandy beach is located at Ramla Bay.

The sand here is a golden-orange colour, and it’s a relatively flat yet sizable beach.

It’s actually one of the flattest and calmest bays all over the island, and was long used as the coastal point for boats to dock before transporting their wares to the Citadel.

When we visited, it was a little too cold to go in the sea ( plus there were jellyfish! ), but in the warmer months, apparently the ocean is full of locals and tourists alike, all out cooling off from the midday sun; a great place to relax.

Other notable beaches and bays that we saw on our Gozo trip, most of which are mainly used by locals, include:

• Dahlet Qorrot - A nice little beach with a great sea walk, unfortunately covered in seaweed when we were there in March.
• Hondoq Ir Rummien - A small beach offering incredible views of Comino; there is also a small restaurant here.
• Mgarr ix-Xini beach - This is where the Angelina Jolie/Brad Pitt movie By The Sea was filmed. This sheltered cove has a small restaurant and is a great place for swimming and kayaking.
• Xlendi bay - This bay is a lot bigger and more built up, much more similar to Marsalforn. However, it’s also a much nicer place to swim, and there are even platforms where you can dive and jump out into the bay.
• Wied il ghasri - A lovely inlet with a small beach at the end. I’m not sure how many people it can hold as it’s pretty busy, and when we were there the water was pretty choppy!

Note: All of the spots above (except Xlendi Bay) are only accessible by very small, windy roads; many of which have steep inclines down the mountains. They also have very little parking, so in the summer months I imagine driving to these spots is very challenging.

10. Walk up to Tal Mixta cave

If you want to get the best views of Ramla Bay, then you should 100% head up to Tal Mixta cave.

This is a fascinating spot, accessible either by walking straight up the cliff from Ramla Bay, or driving along a long windy road.

When you drive here, you park up a couple hundred metres away and then walk right to the cliff's edge almost, where you see a small tunnel-entrance that leads down into the cave.

It’s a great spot, and a famous one for those of you looking to capture those Instagram-worthy shots down over Ramla Bay.

11. Explore the Ggantija temples

I was fascinated to learn that Gozo is home to ruins dating back thousands of years!

One of the best preserved Unesco World Heritage Sites are the Ggantija temples , which is now blocked off with a visitor centre and is one of the few tourist attractions in Gozo you have to pay to see.

Inside, you get to visit and walk around the ruins of a temple dating back more than 5,500 years old!

That means they were built here BEFORE the Pyramids Of Egypt!

I really recommend visiting, and as part of your entrance price, you also get tickets to visit the nearby Ta’ Kola Windmill ; which was built in the 1700s and is today a museum.

12. Walk along the breathtaking Sanap Cliffs

This ended up being one of my favorite spots anywhere in Gozo.

We chose to stop here for lunch on our second day, and what a view!

Best of all, you can go for a nice leisurely walk along the cliff face, all the way down to Xlendi Bay if you wish.

There are lots of walking routes in the area, and we saw plenty of people out enjoying the views while we were there.

Just one piece of advice, don’t drive all the way to the cliffs!

This is what we did, and luckily for us there was only one car at the end and we could still turn around.

It is a very narrow track that leads to the front, but no parking there except for one car.

Instead, I recommend finding a quiet spot somewhere away from the cliffs and then walking along the narrow road to them.

13. Enjoy the sunset at Ta Cenc cliffs

Before leaving Gozo, another set of Cliffs that are worth visiting are Ta Cenc.

It’s an amazing spot to watch the sunset, and you also get to enjoy views of Malta in the other direction.

You can drive down the road running alongside the cliff and park your car up at this point here .

From here, there are a few walking paths that run out towards and along the cliffs.

14. Visit a winery

If you’re a lover of wine, then one of the best things to do in Gozo is to head to one of the local wineries.

There are a few across the island, and two of which I know are open for visitors.

It’s best to book a visit in advance, and when there you get to tour the vineyards, learn more about how the wine is made and, of course, sample a few glasses!

For more information, it’s best to contact the owners directly through their websites:

• Tal-Massar Estate
• Ta Mena Estate  

15. Take a day trip to The Blue Lagoon

On a visit to Gozo, one thing you simply can’t afford to miss out on is a visit to the Blue Lagoon, located on the nearby Maltese island of Comino!

We visited the Blue Lagoon as a part of a day trip from Malta , though cruises operate from Gozo as well.

As a part of the cruise, you get to sail out between the coves and caves on Comino, as well as having a few hours to swim and relax in the warm blue waters.

What’s nice is that, The Blue Lagoon isn’t the only spot around Comino that you can swim in.

Instead, you can also walk across the small island to other nearby bays and swim in there as well!

If you are heading to Malta, then I can recommend the tour we took with Sea Adventure.

It only costs €20 and we took on our own food and alcohol for the day.

They also have glass windows in the base of the ship, which made for a great way to spot even more fish and other marine life on the way to Blue Lagoon.

Check out the cheapest tour prices here with:

• GetYourGuide

Other Gozo travel tips

A few final top travel tips for visiting the gorgeous island of Gozo.

First off, check out our Gozo travel video ...

Can I just book a tour in Gozo?

Sure you can!

If you want to experience all of the best things to do on Gozo island, but don’t want the stress of hiring a car and driving yourself around, then there are tonnes of tour options which take you to many of the best sites.

For booking tours, your best choice is to go through either GetYourGuide or Viator, who have a wide selection of tours for seeing Gozo’s best attractions.

Here are some of the most popular tours:

• Full Day Hop-on Hop-off City Sightseeing Bus Tour
• Full Gozo Day Trip By Jeep & Private Driver
• Gozo Day Tour By Tuk-Tuk, Including Lunch And Ferry
• Full Day Tour By Quad Bike (Including Private Boat)
• Gozo Segway Tour

When is the best time to visit Gozo, Malta?

To make the most of everything on offer, the best time to see Gozo is on a nice clear sunny day.

As it’s located in the heart of the Mediterranean, there is great weather almost all year round in Gozo and their winter isn’t anywhere near as bad as that in western Europe (which is why you find so many British expats living in Malta).

The hottest months are July and August, where temperatures reach as high as 40 degrees Celsius and above!

We spoke to plenty of locals who said that this is too hot, even for them!

Also, it is around these months that lots of tourists flock to the island during the summer holidays.

We visited in March and I can honestly say we had a wonderful time here!

Though it was officially only early-Spring/late Winter, the weather was incredible and there was hardly any wind.

We had the added benefit that there were very few tourists anywhere so we had many of the best Gozo attractions all to ourselves.

With that said, you may want to try and visit Gozo in the shoulder months of March-May or September-October for nice weather and fewer tourists.

How long should you spend in Gozo?

We had a month living in Malta, so had plenty of time to fit everything in; but don’t worry you don’t have to spend this long!

To see all of the sites listed above, you’re going to need at least 3 days in Gozo.

2 days to see everything on the island and another day to do your visit to Comino.

If you can spare 4 days on Gozo then that is tonnes of time to see everything and also have a really chilled out pace to your sightseeing.

How much should you budget for Gozo?

Gozo is relatively cheap compared to most countries in Europe.

In fact, what’s nice about Gozo is that many of the things to do here are free or extremely cheap.

For example, our boat tour out around Azure Window cost just 4 Euros, and they could easily charge a lot more.

The same goes for trips to Blue Lagoon, which are very reasonably priced .

If you’re looking to spend each night in a nice mid-range guesthouse or Airbnb, then you’re probably looking at around €40-€50 a night for two people.

So for a 3 night stay, you will probably end up spending somewhere around €80-€100 a day per person, assuming you stay somewhere half decent, rent your own car and eat out twice a day.

Where to go after Gozo?

If you are visiting the incredible island of Gozo, then you’re going to need to take time to see Malta as well.

Packed with even more wonderful things to see and do, it’s worth spending a few days on Malta before flying home.

For help planning the rest of your trip, here are some other guides that we put together …

• Malta - 25 Best Things To Do In Malta
• Valletta - 15 Best Things To Do In Valletta
• Malta Itinerary: 5 Day Malta Itinerary [Including Gozo & Comino]

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Gozo What To Do? Top 10 Things To See and Do

Best malta tourist attractions and activities for your holiday to gozo.

Our top 10 things what to do in Gozo while on your holiday. Gozo is  full of interesting villages and sites  to visit where each has its own  unique character and story .

Disclaimer: On our website, you will find affiliate links from which we receive a small commission.

Although  Gozo  is a small island, there are many things to do as holiday attractions and cultural events. It is a small charming island with dozens of places of interest attracting everyone.

If you love architecture and history, there is Rabat (Victoria) as it is also called and the Cittadella further up.

If you love swimming, the summer months will be ideal to swim at Xlendi, Marsalforn or Ramla l-Hamra with it’s reddish/golden coloured sand or at the many rocky beaches to jump from.

Take the plunge to come for your Gozo island vacation. The island is common for its  quietness and tranquillity . The Gozo ferry is the link to the island from Cirkewwa Malta.

• Rabat & Cittadella
• Azur Window & Inland Sea
• Blue Lagoon Comino
• Ggantija Megalithic Temples
• Marsalforn Village
• Xlendi Village
• Ramla l-Hamra Bay
• Xewkija Rotunda Church
• Ta' Pinu Church
• Take A Tour Round Gozo

1. Cittadella Victoria Rabat

Rabat, also called Victoria, is situated at the  centre  of Gozo where all the village roads converge to it and is the place where all everyday activities happen. The old Citadel , also called the Cittadella or  Kastell  (Castle) stands above Rabat at the top of a steep hill visible from almost all the island. Do not miss the  incredible 360 degree view  from the top of the fortifications stretching around the picturesque views.

places close by

• The two main shopping malls of Gozo are in the main road of Rabat and situated along Republic Street. They are Arkadia Commercial Centre and The Duke Shopping Mall, Tigrija Café.
• Various cafes and restaurants around the central area are available.
• You can also visit the Gozo Museum of Archaeology, Folklore Museum, Gozo Natural Museum and the Old Prison. The fee is included for all the Cittadella sites.

Further Suggestions...

• Ideal for great memory photos.
• The public transport bus terminus is at the centre of Rabat and close to the main square. From here there are buses that take you to all over Gozo.
• All sightseeing buses pass from Rabat main central road.
• We recommend a walk through the new complete renovation of the Citadel entrance area and the fortifications.
• Walk around the open market at the main square and the many shops that surround it.

2. The collpased Azure Window and surrounding

The Azure Window  was a stunning site to see standing some 50 metres above sea level. It stood very close to  two other famous natural landmarks  – the Inland Sea, and Dwejra Bay .  It was and still is one of the main tourist attractions.  They are reached through the San Lawrenz village located up hill.

It was Gozo’s iconic arch, a spectacular and stunning view located over the sea in Dwejra. It is now under the sea, which has become one of the top diving spots in Europe.

Since it collapsed, what can i do?

• The inland sea is the ideal and safe location where you can take your children to swim in shallow water with pebbles to stand on.
• You can take a boat ride from the inland sea passing through the natural 80 metres tunnel of the inland sea out to the open Mediterranean blue deep sea.
• A few stalls are on location for drinks and snacks. A nice restaurant is at the corner going to the inland sea.
• The Blue Hole is a hidden gem where people go and swim.
• The area has become a diving sensation, and if you love diving you can dive and see the collapsed Azure Window under the sea.

Some more suggestions...

• You can take photos for lifetime memories and share with your family and friends.
• Very popular for diving in the open Mediterranean sea, swim through natural caves, underwater corridors, drop off’s with a variety of natural sea life and various species of fish.
• Do remember to take with you good foot wear as there are rock pools filled with sea water when the sea is rough and the rock face is pointed.
• It is the ideal location to sit and relax no specific area to stop as selection is endless. Walk and stop and see the evening sunset when the crowds have left. If you have no car do check the last Public Transport bus schedule.
• If you think the hot summer sun will distract you from enjoying the area, bring with you an umbrella.

3. The iconic blue lagoon that everybody want to visit

The Blue Lagoon is  one of the most beautiful beaches in Malta , situated between the island of Comino and the islet of Cominotto. A long narrow bay between the two islands, lovely cyan colour reflection with sand spread all around. On the side a small sandy beach ideal for children to play. In summer it is pretty crowded but worth the visit with family and friends.

Visited by tourist boats that anchor in the marina-like bay throughout the day (avoid the weekends), the Blue Lagoon will remain empty at night, in fact the island only has an official population of less than four people. This way, these Maltese waters are sure to remain clean and transparent for years to come.

What to do while here

• Snorkeling is very much recommended. Boat cruises do lend snorkels to the patrons to go round the boat area observing the fish.
• Relaxation on the beach is ideal although in peak summer it is very crowded. Better try visiting during the week.
• Santa Maria sandy beach is a bigger one where it is not crowded even during summer. You can rent umbrellas and deckchairs. Most of the boat trips take you to this beach directly.
• There are a few places you can walk to while on the island. The Santa Maria Tower , the barracks , the knights fortification and the Comino Hotel . If it is during summer, take plenty of water.

Our Suggestions...

• If you have children, they can play safely in the warm shallow lagoon while the family enjoys the sun.
• If you are a photo lover, we recommend walking around the island as every spot offers a different expression of this beautiful location.
• Boat trips from Cirkewwa beside the Gozo Ferry area or from Mgarr ferry terminal Gozo.

4. Ggantija Temples

The island of Gozo is enriched by the Ggantija temples as they are the oldest standing stones in the world . They were built between 4,100 and 2,500 BC. 

They are made out of coraline limestone megalithic and weigh 50 tons each. Ggantija temples are surrounded by apses or better known as circular surroundings. The real truth behind worshiping in this temples are unknown, but when these temples were excavated, bones and niches in the wall were found, so sacrificing of animals were included in their religious rituals. It is the prime Gozo heritage site.

suggestions about ggantija temples

• Public transport buses pass very close to the temples as they are very close to Nadur village.
• There is a recently modern visitor’s centre with an interpretation centre.
• It is suggested to be part of a tour in order to get a full explanation of the richness of the site.
• Toilet facilities are available at the visitor’s centre.

5. The Village of Marsalforn

Marsalforn  one of Gozo’s three main fishing village  lying between Xaghra and Zebbug. Still today there are fishing boats moored on the side of the bay as evidence of this.

Today it has transformed into a tourist attraction with numerous restaurants along the promenade and surroundings. There are  ample areas for swimming , a sandy pebbly beach in the middle of the bay and rocky area to the left of the bay to Santa Marija point which is a very popular swimming and snorkelling areas.

In summer many Maltese populate this village especially for holidays with the many tourist arrivals that occupy the hotels and self-catering apartments.

In winter the bay is pleasantly quiet and only the residents remain as the number of tourists and Maltese decrease but still remains a primary site for walks and restaurants. Gozitans enjoy strolling back and forth along the marina.

what do you find in the village

• Plenty of restaurants along the promenade.
• Other bays close by but less popular but good for swimming are Qbajjar and Xwejni.
• A few small grocery shops are available for your daily requirements including some souvenir shops.
• Arriving from the main Rabat road called il-Merzuq. Try to walk up to see a complete view of Marsalforn.  A volcano-like hill a few metres away hosting a massive 12 metre statue of Christ.
• Various activities are available; 2 wheel rentals, diving schools and booking of boat trips.
• Do not miss the Gozitan ice cream from the mobile kiosk Granola.

6. The Small Village of Xlendi

Xlendi attracts many visitors both locals Maltese and tourists. It is a lovely location where you can swim, take a leisure boat, snorkel, sunbathe and diving. Plenty of restaurants along the beach. The location is very quiet and relaxing. Plenty of parking for those who have a rented car. 

• Eating at one of the many restaurants along the sea shore. It is recommended to book before hand in peak season and especially the weekends.
• Taste the Gozo ice cream from the Granola shop just very close to the sea.
• Renting of water sports from the beach area.
• Walk up the staircase on the right side of the beach for a fantastic view of the bay and surrounding locations.

7. Explore Gozo Beaches

Gozo is full of beaches to swim at. It is the  most popular beach on the island  with its shallow sea golden red sand that attracts so many people. Ideal for those who wish to relax in a quiet and colourful environment. Children can play safely. During winter time it is pleasant to have a long walk along the beach where it will be covered all with greenery. 

• A wonderful view of the bay can be observed from the panoramic balcony at the top of the hill arriving by car.
• During the winter period it is more ideal to walk around the bay and explore the rocky faces on both sides of the bay. Various cultural attractions are evident in the bay which can make your walk more interesting.
• You can rent umbrellas and deckchairs and have a meal at the local restaurants.

8. Visit The Rotunda Church

Do not miss a visit to the oldest village, Xewkija. It is well known for its majestic Rotunda church. The dome dominates the village and the church is the largest in Gozo. It is situated between Ghajnsielem and the capital town Victoria. A Roman Catholic church dedicated to St. John The Baptist.

Built by Maltese masons and craftsmen in Maltese stone. The Internal dome diameter is 27 metres, the dome is 75 metres high, its calculated weight is 45000 tonnes.  The dome is the worlds third highest unsupported dome.

• A lift takes you to the roof top with formidable views of all Gozo and many parts of Malta and observe the beauty of this church. It is 360 degree panoramic view of the island and beyond.
• The village core is very quiet and worth having a walk around.

9. The Popular Ta' Pinu National Shrine

If you like seeing a Roman Catholic basilica church we suggest paying a visit to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta’ Pinu in Gharb.

The style is of the Romanesque Revival architecture. It is a  centre of pilgrimages an important landmark  for Gozitans and Maltese. Surrounded by greenery it is a picturesque view, especially seeing it from afar and gives you an incredible view of its beauty. It is one of the most visited places of worship in Gozo.

• To arrive at the basilica, it is located at 700 metres from the small village of Gharb and four kilometres from Victoria.
• Visitors are requested to wear trousers for men and women should cover their shoulders.
• Opening time: Monday to Saturday 6:30 to 12:15 and 3:30 to 19:00.

10. Sightseeing Tours

You will see the most important villages and sites. There are two different tours by City Sightseeing Gozo, the red Bus and Gozo Sightseeing the green bus. Explore the island on the hop on hop off , get the best views from the first floor of the bus. This is one way of getting around Gozo .

• You can stop at any location and attractions and hop on again ticket valid for one day and explore the locations at your leisure.
• Arriving at Mgarr harbour you can get the sightseeing trip from beside the boat beside the ferry terminal or from any of the stops along the route.
• Buses run every 45 minutes from 9:40 to 15:00.

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7 of the best Malta holidays 2024: Where to stay for luxury retreats and budget breaks

A tiny archipelago of just three inhabited islands, Malta may be one of Europe’s smallest countries, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in natural beauty and vibrant towns.

An increasingly popular holiday destination, Malta is situated just 50 miles south of Sicily. From sightseeing in picturesque walled towns to discovering sandy beaches and and enjoying the vibrant nightlife, the island trio of Malta, Gozo and Comino boasts tourist attractions suiting all ages.

The country has been open to outside influence since medieval times, with a colourful history that culminated in independence from Britain in the 1960s. A complicated past – moulded by centuries of foreign rule by a handful of different powers – has made Malta an enigmatic paradise for those with an interest in history and the islands are a wondrous collection of landmarks.

With excellent weather well into autumn, the end of summer can be an ideal time to visit the islands. You’ll find average temperatures around 24C, fewer crowds to contend with and better deals on offer, whether you’re looking for a last-minute family-friendly getaway or a luxury couples retreat . Here are some of the best deals to get you booking that Malta holiday for 2024.

The Phoenicia, Valletta

Valletta , the Maltese capital, is a Unesco World Heritage Site noted for the 320 monuments that adorn the city streets. A walled city that dates back to the 1500s, it is home to an attractive port area with sweeping sea views and an eclectic mix of honey-hued Baroque and neoclassical buildings. The main sights include the Grandmaster’s Palace, St John’s Co-Cathedral and the impressive Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens.

British Airways Holidays  offer exceptional value on packages at The Phoenicia , located just outside of the city (less than 10 minutes away from the Upper Barrakka Gardens). It sits on seven acres of private gardens, with views over the Grand Harbour from its magnificent infinity pool and terrace. While the rooms are fairly minimal in decoration, the hotel interiors are magnificent, and the spa and indoor pool cap off the luxury amenities.

Prices from £1,724.50pp for seven nights’ accommodation, return flights from Gatwick, airport transfers and one checked bag each. Departing 31 August.

Corinthia Palace, San Anton

If you prefer somewhere away from the sea, choose Mdina, a smaller walled city that served as a filming location for Game of Thrones . The former capital contains its own St Paul’s Cathedral and an impressive city gate, and can make a great base for your stay – Valletta, Sliema, St Julian’s and Mellieha are all less than 30 minutes away by car.

Just 10 minutes away from Mdina and near to the verdant Sant’Anton Gardens, the Corinthia Palace Hotel is an oasis of peace and relaxation in the gardens of a converted 19th-century villa. Centred around a large outdoor swimming pool, the hotel also offers a spa, gym and heated indoor pool, as well as a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves a terrifically British afternoon tea. Several providers offer trips here, but the Jet2holidays package is the best value.

Prices from £1,372pp for seven nights’ accommodation, bed and breakfast, return flights from Stansted, private airport transfers and one piece of checked luggage each. Departing 2 September.

Kempinski Hotel, Gozo

The island of Gozo lies directly northwest of Malta. Slightly smaller than its neighbour, it is similarly rugged but more green and hilly, with an impressive list of things to do. The first should be the Ggantija Temple, a Unesco-listed neolithic complex that outdates Stonehenge and the Egyptian Pyramids; the island is also home to a 15th-century citadel that is extremely well-preserved. Ramla Bay is the only sandy beach on the island, though the azure waters of the Blue Hole – a natural rock formation – and the seas surrounding it are also great for swimming.

For excellent value in your Gozo getaway, plump for Thomas Cook. This package is for a stay at the Kempinski Hotel in San Lawrenz, a five-star spa hotel with several acres of gardens that contain five different swimming pools. The hotel is suitably grand, with elegant facades and a selection of stylishly decorated rooms to add to its three different restaurant offerings.

Prices from £659.27pp for five nights’ accommodation, bed and breakfast and return flights from Gatwick. Departing 1 September.

Westin Dragonara, St Julian’s

St Julian’s is a lively, seaside resort slightly north of Valletta. This is the place to come for nightlife, with the Paceville area well-known for its abundance of casinos, bars and clubs. Beach areas, such as St George’s Bay and Balluta Bay, are popular for swimming and a host of water sports, from snorkelling to jet skiing. For a more laid-back time, opt for a walk around Portomaso Marina and Spinola Bay.

British Airways Holidays offers a package staying at the Westin Dragonara . Near the heart of town – and close to Paceville – the hotel offers contemporary elegance with magnificent gardens, as well as two swimming pools, two sections of guest-only beach and three restaurants serving a range of continental cuisine. All rooms come equipped with a balcony or sun terrace, with views of the gardens or the Med.

Price from £1,352pp for seven nights’ accommodation, return flights from Gatwick and airport transfers. Departing 8 September.

The Palace Hotel, Sliema

Sitting between Valletta and St Julian’s, Sliema is a built-up coastal town. The seafront promenade is the best place for views towards both Valletta and St Julian’s, and stretches for around three miles, making it excellent for a spot of exercise or a waterside meal. Though the only sand beaches in the area is Exiles, you can swim, kayak and paddle board using access points at Qui-Si-Sana, Font Ghadir and Sliema Pitch.

The Palace Hotel sits on a hill overlooking part of the city and the Mediterranean Sea, so you can expect sensational views if you book this easyJet package. The rooftop terrace is the focal point of the hotel, with a large infinity pool, bar and plenty of seating from which to enjoy the panorama. There’s also a spa and indoor pool, and the hotel’s central location means a quick excursion into town is easy.

Price from £868pp for five nights’ accommodation, return flights from Gatwick, one checked bag each and private airport transfers. Departing 13 June.

Salini Resort, Qawra

Found within the popular St Paul’s Bay area, Qawra is a resort town near the eastern coast of the island. It is sometimes seen as a joint resort along with the nearby area of Bugibba, an upbeat and energetic place with more of a focus on nightlife. Qawra’s nightlife is less raucous – though there are still many bars, pubs and restaurants in the area – and the two spots complement each other well. The town has its own promenade, and though the rocky coastline means that sandy areas are limited, Qawra Point is a popular spot for swimming, snorkelling and diving.

Located just 10 minutes away from Qawra, the Salini Resort sits beside its own section of coastline across from St Paul’s Bay. It features tennis courts, three swimming pools and three restaurants. Inside, the hotel’s modern interiors are accompanied by sweeping sea views; private balconies in every room allow you to enjoy them in peace. For a great early-September deal on Salini, book with Tui .

Price from £550.63pp for five nights’ accommodation with return flights from Heathrow and one piece of checked luggage each. Departing 6 September.

Db Seabank Hotel, Mellieha

Mellieha’s bay is the largest and most popular beach on the island of Malta. A charming, peaceful town surrounded by golden hills, it contains several historic monuments – from the parish church to the Red Tower, a 17th-century watchtower – and natural sites including the Coral Lagoon and Il-Majjistral Nature and History Park.

Thomas Cook’ s offers a five-night all-inclusive stay at Db Seabank Hotel . The family-friendly hotel on the northern coast, near Ghadira Bay, sits around a large outdoor pool and terrace area, with an indoor pool, spa and sauna also available. The hotel has cocktail bars, lounges and seven restaurants, with cuisine ranging from Mediterranean buffets to Asian fusion. Staff organise activities such as yoga, aerobics, beach volleyball and football, while the kids’ club puts on activities for those aged four to 11.

Price from £700.89pp for five nights’ accommodation, all-inclusive, with return flights from Luton; only hand luggage included. Departing 8 September.

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How to spend a day in Valletta, Malta's baroque, harbourside city

Plan the perfect day in the Maltese capital, from breakfast pastries to a waterfront dinner.

Built by the Knights of St John in the 16th century, Valletta retains much of its time-worn charm, with narrow streets leading between honey-coloured buildings, and glimpses of the Mediterranean never far from view. It’s a small place – just 0.3 square miles – so all of its attractions are within easy walking distance. Here’s how to make the most of it.

8am: Breakfast at Caffe Cordina

Opened in 1837, this elegant cafe in the heart of the city centre not only serves up traditional Maltese pastizzi   (savoury pastries stuffed with ricotta or peas and beef) and round qassatat   pies, often filled with peas, but also a sublime atmosphere. Expect marbled floors, gold-lined ceilings and elegant chandeliers to backdrop your coffee and cake consumption. If you’re chomping at the bit to get exploring, they also sell some treats to take away.

10am: Explore Casa Rocca Piccola

If you visit one museum in Valletta, make it this 16th-century palace — the family home of the ninth Marquis de Piro. A glorious timewarp showcasing artistic treasures both Maltese-made and imported, the series of treasure-cluttered rooms contain everything from a portable altar hidden in a bureau to possibly the last surviving set of medical instruments from the Knights of St John. There are underground tunnels used for shelter during Second World War bombings, too. Tours run every hour and last about 45 minutes.

11am: Water taxi to the Three Cities

Get a prime view of Valletta’s skyline and a nautical adventure at the same time by hopping aboard a dgħajsa   (traditional water taxi) to the historic towns known as the Three Cities, just across the Grand Harbour. Trips departing from water level below the Upper Barrakka Gardens cost just a few euros per person and only take around 15 minutes each way. Alternatively, ask your skipper to give you a personalised boat tour of the harbour.

1pm: Lunch at Café Jubilee

Filled with quirky art pieces — including vintage posters and inverted milk jugs repurposed into pendant lights — this homely family-owned restaurant in the historic core of Valletta specialises in the cuisine of Malta’s neighbouring island, Gozo. Tuck into dishes such as sheep’s cheese ravioli with tomato and basil sauce, rabbit stew with orange, spices and red wine, and baked marrow stuffed with beef. Wash everything down with the local Cisk lager or Maltese craft beers such as Blue Lagoon Witbier.

3pm: Tour the Teatru Manoel

Opened in 1732 by António Manoel de Vilhena, a Grand Master of the Knights of St John, Teatru Manoel is a spectacular example of a surviving baroque theatre. Twice-daily tours, which run at 11am and 3pm on weekdays, cost €5 (£4) and will take you from the stalls up into the wooden boxes where the people-watching opportunities are often as thrilling as what’s shown on stage.

4pm: Valletta Design Cluster

Set on a quiet side street in a building that was once used as a slaughterhouse, the Valletta Design Cluster doesn’t look like much from the outside — but step into the lobby and take the lift to the top floor, and you’ll be welcomed by a verdant surprise. The leafy rooftop garden with seating, tables and a pond provides an elevated perspective of the surrounding city rooftops, and is the perfect outdoor place to sit and relax for an hour among trees, shrubs and fragrant lavender blooms.

5pm: Aperitifs at Kamy Cocktail Bar

Wander around Valletta’s historic centre in the waning light, then pop into this popular cocktail bar. Mixologist Iliyan Iliev combines creative flavours with artistic prowess; try the clarified negroni. Paintings and photographs line the walls and each cocktail comes topped with a recognisable (and drinkable) masterpiece floating on its surface — for example, Munch’s The Scream or Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus.

8pm: Dinner at The Harbour Club

On the south Valletta waterfront facing out to Fort St Angelo and the Three Cities, this elegant dining favourite in an 18th-century building provides impressive views over the Grand Harbour. The menu is inspired by the streets of Valletta, with dishes like Strait Street, starring local pork loin with celeriac and pork gratin, and Old Theatre Street, featuring crab tart and marie rose sauce. Rather unusually in meat-loving Malta, there’s also a seven-course vegan tasting menu.

For Hungry Minds

Related topics.

• CITY GUIDES
• SHORT TRIPS
• CULTURAL TOURISM

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