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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.

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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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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.

Get a FREE Attractions Map

Planning a trip to Malta, Gozo, or Comino? Get this free interactive map filled with insider tips, Google Maps links, and more.

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?

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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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In this website you will find everything you need to know about the Maltese Islands . What to see, what to do, where to go, and many other things that make Malta, Gozo and Comino the ideal holiday destination.

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

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

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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A hideaway island in the Mediterranean but well served by all major airlines; Gozo is an ideal place to meet.

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Is Gozo Worth Visiting? 10 Reasons To Go

Last Updated on March 4, 2024

by Michael Rozenblit

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

For many people coming to Malta, the northern island of Gozo is often only visited as a day trip by travellers Tourists often question whether Gozo is worth visiting and therefore hedge their bets and only devote a small amount of time to Malta’s more remote island.

This is undoubtedly a great shame as not only are there are a plethora of things to do in Gozo but there are also many hidden gems that are simply not possible to discover in a day.

Combined with the fact that there are some amazing restaurants in Gozo, here are ten reasons why you should visit Gozo on your next trip to Malta.

Table of Contents

10 Reasons to Visit Gozo

1. beautiful clear water.

Being a small island, it might not come as a huge surprise that one of the best reasons to visit Gozo is to simply get out on the water and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Luckily, there is no shortage of options for travellers to Gozo and you can simply rent a boat, go on a guided kayak tour or go on a cruise!

The first time we visited Malta, we opted to take a full-day sailing trip  which proved to be a great way to see some of the highlights of Gozo and the surrounding area.

Another great way to get out on the water in Gozo is to rent a boat. There are a huge range of options to choose from small speed boats that you can rent for a couple of hours or larger sailing boats or catamarans if your budget allows it.

Whichever option you choose, make sure to take advantage of the crystal-clear water surrounding Gozo!

2. Less Visited Beaches

If you’re debating between staying in Malta or Gozo , you’ll find that on the main island a lot of the nicer beaches have been taken over by resorts. Gozo on the other hand has several beautiful and relatively untouched beaches that make for a great leisurely day.

One of the best and most popular beaches is Ramla Beach which is considered one of the best sandy beaches in all of Malta.

The beach is stunningly beautiful and is fairly easy to get to, even if you don’t hire a car as there are a couple of public buses that go directly there. There is also a beach restaurant and ice cream parlour nearby if hunger strikes!

It is, however, worth noting that parts of the beach are rocky, particularly when you enter the water so I would recommend bringing water shoes if you intend to do a lot of swimming while at Ramla!

Other popular beaches to visit in Gozo include San Blas Beach and Xlendi Beach.

3. Small wineries

Malta’s wine scene is growing in popularity at a rapid rate and one of the best things to do in Gozo is to learn more about the wine and try some varieties by spending an afternoon at a winery.

We organised a tour with Tal-Massar, a local boutique winery and couldn’t have been happier with the couple of hours we spent there!

The owner, Anthony, gave us a tour of the vineyards and explained some of the history of Maltese wine before we sat down and were able to enjoy four delicious wines accompanied with some local food. After the tastings, the wine was free-flowing as we enjoyed a relaxing afternoon in the beautiful scenery.

4. Malta’s Original Craft Beer

While Malta might be more famous for its wine, it’s important also not to overlook the growing craft beer scene on the island of Gozo!

Gozo’s original craft brewery,  Lord Chambray makes fantastic beers that have spread in popularity and are now also available all over the main island. You can visit their taproom for tastings or alternatively, you’ll find their beers on many menus in Gozo and some on the main island.

5. Go for a hike

The natural beauty of the area undoubtedly means that one of the best reasons to visit Gozo to enjoy any of the numerous hiking routes on offer.

One of the most popular hiking options is along Dwejra Bay, once the home of the famous Azure Window. And while the Azure Window is, unfortunately, no longer standing, the surrounding area is still magnificently beautiful and worth exploring.

6. Explore Victoria (Rabat)

While it’s easy to get caught up in all the natural beauty of Gozo, it’s worth also spending some time exploring the capital of Victoria, also known by its original Maltese name of Rabat.

Located in the centre of Gozo, the highlight of any visit to Victoria is undoubtedly exploring the impressive Citadel which was historically the fortress of the city. Walking along the Citadel gives travellers magnificent views of the island allowing you to see several of the main sites as well as the beautiful coastline.

There are also several churches and museums located within the Citadel’s walls and just outside of them, so it’s worth spending a few hours exploring this area of Gozo. The Citadel is also a great place to watch the sunset!

7. Enjoy the best restaurants in Gozo

Like the rest of Malta, Gozo has many fantastic restaurants and cafes that mean you are never short of options for places to eat. These were some of the best restaurants in Gozo that we enjoyed during our trip:

Ottavo Senso – casual pizzeria in the heart of Victoria serving huge delicious pizzas and other Italian dishes.

Maldonado – another restaurant that serves fine-dining-quality food without the expensive price tags.  Maldonado is located in a cellar and has an impressive wine collection to accompany their delicious range of seafood and meat main dishes.

Cafe Jubilee –  the interior of Cafe Jubliee is reminiscent of an English pub however they serve fantastic local food as well as a range of international dishes. It’s open from 8 am so is a good option any time of day!

Ta Tona – located in Mgarr, close next to the Gozo Ferry Terminal, Ta Tona serves a fantastic range of local dishes including plenty of freshly caught fish.

8. Stock up on local delicacies

After a few days on Gozo, there were many great local products that we wanted to stock up on before leaving the island. There are a few shops in Victoria that sell local produce, however, some of these can be a bit touristy so I suggest heading to  Vini e Capricci for all your Gozo treats!

Located a 25-minute walk away or a short bus ride from the centre of Victoria, this is a great place to buy local wines, sauces, chocolates and other treats to take home with you!

9. Visit the Salt Pans

Located in the north of the island, the Xwejni Salt Pans are one of the top natural sites to visit in Gozo. The salt pans have for hundreds of years been used for the harvesting of salt and still to this day most of the work is done by hand by local workers.

A unique feature of these particular salt pans are the geometric patterns which are formed which makes them a popular place to visit.

10. See Neolithic Sites

While the most impressive Neolithic sites we’ve seen have been on the Orkney Islands in Scotland, you can also find some sites from that era on the island of Gozo!

The Ġgantija Temples located east of Victoria are older than the pyramids in Egypt and have been excellently preserved to allow visitors to still enjoy them to this day. The temples are open year-round and there is a small museum that explains some of the history of the site.

How to Get to Gozo

Getting to Gozo is very straightforward for anyone who is already on the main island of Malta. Simply take any of the buses that go to the northern port of Cirkewwa and hop on the ferry! The ferry crossing takes about 25 minutes and there are ferries every 45 minutes during the day.

You don’t need to buy a ticket when travelling to Gozo but you will need to buy a ticket when you return to the mainland that covers the price of both journeys. That means if you fall in love with Gozo and decide you never want to leave then you can avoid ever paying for your ferry journey!

Where to stay in Gozo

If you want to make the most of your time on the island, then the best place to stay in Gozo is definitely in the capital of Victoria.

A lot of buses in Gozo will run through the capital meaning you can easily get to any part of Gozo within an hour. You also have a lot more restaurant options than in other parts of the island and it will be cheaper as the area doesn’t exclusively cater to tourists.

The Duke Boutique Hotel  – If you prefer to stay in a hotel then this is one of the best places to stay in Gozo. They have fantastic private rooms with great comfortable beds and have a delicious breakfast included in the room rate.

Private Rental  – Gozo has a range of fantastic private rentals such as  this historic farmhouse with a pool .

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Gozo!

Our time in Gozo was undoubtedly some of the most memorable during our trip to Malta. There were so many great things to do in Gozo and we were incredibly thankful that we took the time to spend a few days here and not rush through Gozo on a day trip!

Are you wondering is Gozo worth visiting or have you been before? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments below! 

Related Posts:

How To Plan A Gozo Day Trip from Malta

Malta or Gozo? Where To Stay In Malta

A Guide to Sliema, Malta: Top Things to Do

About Michael Rozenblit

Michael is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Both solo and with his partner, Maggie, he has travelled to over 50 countries across the globe and has a particular affinity for the Balkans and Eastern Europe. He’s lived in numerous countries worldwide but currently resides in his hometown of Melbourne, Australia. Read more about Michael

Been to gozo 5 times over the years my fav resturant is in zlendi habour called the pirate amazing pasta dishes love the farmhouse rentals

Zlendi not xlendi sorry

Go to Gozo for the music festivals – Gozo Alive, Rock Astra and Gozo Goes Pop – or at a first time (for example, St George in July in Victoria). Visit the tower close to the Inland Sea. See sunset at Xlendi.

Thanks for the suggestions Susan! 🙂

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4 Days Malta & Gozo Itinerary: The Jewel of the Mediterranean

The Maltese archipelago, set like a jewel in the heart of the Mediterranean, is a fusion of crystal waters, rich history, and vibrant local culture. With a climate boasting over 300 days of sunshine a year and a historical tapestry that weaves back to 5000 BCE, Malta and its sister island Gozo present a compact yet deeply textured mosaic of travel experiences.

In this article, we’ll embark on a meticulously crafted 4 days Malta and Gozo itinerary that will guide you through these enchanting islands.

Arrival and Check-In

St. john’s co-cathedral and artistic heritage, grandmaster’s palace and upper barrakka gardens, valletta at night, medieval mdina, delving into rabat, return to valletta, ferry to gozo, gozo’s gems, coastal wonders, accommodation in gozo, beach time or leisure activity, souvenir shopping and local crafts, planning for departure, travel tips and essentials, day 1: exploring the heart of valletta.

Upon landing at Malta International Airport, located between the villages of Luqa and Gudja, you’ll find yourself just a 15-minute ride from the storied gates of Valletta , Malta’s diminutive but mighty capital. A city built by the Knights of St. John, Valletta is steeped in history and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site .

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Opt for accommodations that reflect the local charm — boutique hotels converted from age-old limestone buildings are a quintessential choice. Settle in, then set out for a morning refreshment at one of Valletta’s renowned cafés, where the coffee is as rich as the history surrounding you.

Kick off your cultural immersion with a visit to St. John’s Co-Cathedral. This 16th-century marvel houses masterpieces such as Caravaggio’s “ The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist ,” a piece that resonates with the emotive power of Baroque art. Admission prices hover around €10, giving you access to a treasure trove of art and architecture.

After a traditional Maltese lunch, delve into the Grandmaster’s Palace, an emblem of Malta’s historical narrative, housing opulent state rooms and an impressive collection of armor and weapons. Entry fees are around €15, and it’s well worth the expense for a glimpse into the lives of the knights.

Later, take a moment to absorb panoramic views of the Grand Harbour from the Upper Barrakka Gardens, especially captivating during the golden hour as the setting sun illuminates the ancient fortifications.

Dinner by the water’s edge is a must — Valletta’s seaside promenade offers a variety of dining experiences. Post-dinner, a leisurely stroll or a visit to a cultural event, such as a performance at the Manoel Theatre, can provide a perfect end to your first day.

Day 2: Mdina and Rabat Adventure

Begin day 2 with a short journey to Mdina, Malta’s silent city. Public buses run regularly and cost a couple of euros, but for convenience, consider a taxi or a ride-sharing service. Mdina, once the capital of Malta, offers an intimate atmosphere with its narrow streets and noble palaces.

Entrance to St. Paul’s Cathedral , another Baroque masterpiece, is roughly €5, and the adjacent museum adds layers of historical context to your visit.

Adjacent to Mdina, Rabat awaits with its own treasures. After a local lunch — try pastizzi , a flaky pastry filled with ricotta or peas, and explore the St. Paul’s Catacombs , an extensive underground Christian burial site. The entrance fee is about €6, and it’s an evocative journey into the early Christian period of Malta.

The Domus Romana , with well-preserved mosaics, is a testament to Malta’s Roman past. A ticket here will run around €6 and includes access to multimedia displays that bring history to life.

Your evening is free to explore more of Valletta’s culinary scene or to simply relax at a waterfront bar, enjoying the sounds of the sea.

Day 3: The Island of Gozo

Catching an early ferry to Gozo from Ċirkewwa is an adventure in itself. The ferry is frequent and affordable, costing less than €5 for a return trip. The 25-minute journey offers stunning views of Comino , the smallest inhabited island of the archipelago.

Upon arriving in Gozo, head straight to the Ġgantija Temples , older than Egypt’s pyramids and a profound testament to human spirituality and ingenuity. Entry fees are under €10, and the experience is priceless.

In Victoria, Gozo’s quaint capital, the Citadella ‘s medieval fortifications offer 360-degree views of the island. While in Victoria, sample the local cuisine: Gozitan cheeselets , known as ġbejniet, are a must-try.

Later, explore the coastal landscapes of Dwejra Bay , where the Azure Window once stood. Though the iconic limestone arch collapsed in 2017, the site remains spectacular, especially at sunset. Dinner in Gozo tends to be a rustic affair, often in a farmhouse with a pool , offering a taste of Gozitan hospitality and charm.

Consider spending the night in a traditional Gozitan farmhouse, available for rent throughout the island. These stone-built homes are a unique blend of rustic allure and modern comfort, complete with pools and terraces.

Day 4: Leisure and Departure

Spend your final morning unwinding on one of Gozo’s beaches, such as Ramla Bay with its distinctive red sands, or engage in leisure activities like diving in the clear Mediterranean waters, home to exciting underwater landscapes and sea life.

Before departing, visit Ta’ Dbieġi , the oldest crafts village on the island. Here you can purchase handcrafted goods, from intricate lace to colorful blown glass, making for meaningful souvenirs.

As your journey concludes, ensure you leave ample time for the return ferry and transport to Malta International Airport.

The islands may be small, but their capacity to enchant is limitless.

Here are some important information for your 4 days visit to Malta and Gozo islands.

When is the best time to visit : The ideal months to visit are from April to June and from September to October when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are thinner.

Language : English is widely spoken alongside Maltese, easing communication hurdles.

Currency : The currency is the Euro, and while credit cards are accepted in most establishments, carrying some cash is advisable for smaller shops and public transport.

Transport : Speaking of transport, while Malta’s bus system is extensive, renting a car or using taxis can save time and offer flexibility.

Is Gozo worth visiting?

Gozo is a hidden gem in the Mediterranean that’s definitely worth exploring. It’s an island that covers just 26 square miles, making it a perfect spot for some R&R. If you’re not into the party atmosphere and prefer a slower pace of life, Gozo has got you covered.

Gozo is also home to some delightful villages like Xlendi — a little seaside village with a nice bay and plenty of cafes and restaurants — and Gharb. And let’s not forget Victoria, the capital.

One of the best reasons to visit Gozo is for its beautiful clear water. Being a small island, it’s no surprise that it has some stunning beaches. Plus, there are plenty of other bays that might be a bit harder to reach but are totally worth the effort.

So, to sum up, Gozo is indeed worth visiting. It offers a unique blend of relaxation, beautiful landscapes, clear waters, and rich history.

Other things to remember : Lastly, remember that Malta is a historically Catholic country, so respectful attire when visiting religious sites is appreciated.

This 4 days Malta and Gozo itinerary will leave you with a rich tapestry of memories from the sun-drenched shores of the Maltese Islands. Malta and Gozo, with their compelling blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, are not just destinations to visit but experiences to savor.

This article is contributed by an expert guest author.

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The Top 13 Things to Do on Gozo

Part of the Maltese Archipelago, Gozo is the second largest of the three inhabited islands of the Mediterranean country of Malta: Malta, Gozo, and Comino. For comparison, Malta has nearly 500,000 inhabitants, while Gozo has around 33,000—it's definitely Malta's little sister.

While Malta is known as a party destination, Gozo is a lot more low-key. Vacationers come here for the quiet ambiance, the warm environment, traditional stone villages, and the crystalline sea that surrounds the island. A couple of days here will give you the chance to explore the island's beaches and bays, small towns, and archaeological sites. In unranked order, here are our top 13 things to see and do on Gozo.

Kayak to Comino's Blue Lagoon

TripSavvy / Linda Strauta

One of Gozo's most popular destinations is actually on tiny Comino. The Blue Lagoon is one of those "you have to see it to believe it" natural wonders. The protected inlet is wedged between Comino and the rocky outcropping of Cominetto, and its shallow, turquoise blue water is Mediterranean paradise defined. You can get there by ferry from Malta, but it's more fun—and more of an adventure—to kayak over from Gozo. Gozo Adventures has an outpost at Hondoq Bay, and will take you on a guided trip across to the Blue Lagoon.

Storm the Citadel

Well, you don't really have to storm the gates to get in, especially since the doors to this UNESCO World Heritage Site are wide open during the day. But it doesn't take much imagination to picture the Cittadella, or the Citadel, as it once was in the Middle Ages. Built atop a neolithic settlement that later became a Phoenician acropolis, the Citadel today is a massive fortress featuring ramparts, museums, a former prison, and an important Catholic cathedral. From the Citadel walls, you can enjoy views across all of Gozo. Entrance is free to the Citadel, with additional small fees to enter the museums and cathedral.

Survey the Xwejni Salt Pans

Salt has always been an essential mineral, and it's been harvested on Gozo for thousands of years. On the northern coast of Gozo, the Xwejni Salt Pans are thought to be among the oldest functioning salt pans in the world. Seawater either splashes or is pumped into the grid of the shallow pools, and as it dries, the salt is harvested. You can't walk among the salt pans, but you can take pictures, buy salt, and, with any luck, watch the salt harvesting process.

Take a Tuk-Tuk Tour

Yippee Malta 

If you arrive to Gozo with no car, no worries. Arrange for a fun tuk-tuk tour with Yippee Malta . The open-air, motorized tuk-tuks hold up to six passengers and zip around the island's main sights, with narration from your guide/driver. Plus, they can reach some remote places on narrow roads you might not want to attempt with a rental car. A one-day tour costs 60 euros per adult.

Kick Back at Ramla Bay Beach

Large stretches of sandy beach are rarities on rocky Gozo, so Ramla Bay Beach is a treat for locals and visitors alike. The wide, reddish-tinted beach has areas where you can rent a beach lounger and umbrella, as well as plenty of "free" sand for spreading out a towel. There are a few snack bars, plus the ruins of a Roman villa nearby. If you're feeling energetic, hike up to Calypso's Cave, said to be the very spot where the nymph Calypso kept Homer's Odysseus captive for seven years.

Relax at Marsalforn

If you want to visit Gozo and base yourself near the water, the cute little resort town of Marsalforn is a good choice. With plenty of hotels and vacation rentals, it's one of the island's most developed towns in terms of tourism infrastructure, yet never feels like one of the glitzier beach resorts on neighboring Malta. And even if you just spend an afternoon here, you'll find a sandy beach right in town, as well as restaurants, bars, and boat rentals.

Trek to the Stone Age at Ġgantija Temples

As on Malta, Gozo is home to some of the world's largest free-standing stone structures. Part of the Megalithic Temples of Malta UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ġgantija ("giantess" in Maltese) Temple Complex sits inland, adjacent to the town of Xagħra. Archaeologists believe the 5,500-year-old temples were a ceremonial site linked to ancient fertility rites. In Gozitan legend, they were built by a giantess who had a child with a local (mortal) man. The complex includes a small museum and is open Thursday to Sunday.

Duck Into a Church

Malta is a deeply religious country, where almost 95 percent of the population identify as Roman Catholic. Of Malta's hundreds of churches, 46 are on Gozo. Most are open all day, meaning you're free to walk in and take a look around (unless Mass is taking place). Highlights include Baroque St. George's Basilica in Victoria, the Basilica of the Nativity of Our Lady in Xagħra, and the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta' Pinu, located in the countryside near Għarb. 

Soak up a Sunset

Evenings on Gozo offer up some great sunsets, so make sure you're ready when the moment nears. Popular vantage points include the ramparts of the Citadel in Victoria, and the dramatic Ta' Ċenċ Cliffs on the southern side of the island. Sunsets over the Xwejni Salt Pans, or those at Xlendi, are also quite spectacular.

Stand in Line for Ftira at Mekren's

Courtesy of Mekren's Bakery

Ftira is a national food of Malta. The pizza-like bread is either stuffed, topped, or both, with a range of savory items. In Gozo, it's known as ftira ghawdxija, and is sprinkled with sheep's milk, sausages, eggplant, and always potatoes. Gozitans and visitors in the know head to Nadur to wait in line for freshly made ftira at Mekren's Bakery. There's no place to sit down at this hole-in-wall bakery, so diners take it to go, eat their ftira standing up, or head to a nearby park. To complete the experience, be sure to grab a Kennie—the bittersweet orange-flavored soda of Malta—from the vending machine out front.

Snorkel in the Blue Hole

Gozo's west coast meets a more untamed sea, and has the geological formations to prove it. Among them is the Blue Hole near Dwejra, a popular dive site that's also suitable for experienced snorkelers. The wave-carved "hole" is rich with coral and marine life, clearly visible in the limpid water. This isn't a snorkeling area suitable for kids, as entering the water involves a scramble over some rocks and timing your entry when there's no sea swell.

Look Through the Wied il-Mielaħ Window

The Wied il-Mielaħ Window ("it-Tieqa ta' Wied il-Mielaħ" in Maltese) is a limestone natural arch on the northwestern coast of Gozo. It is located at the end of the valley of Wied il-Mielaħ, north of the village of Għarb. This natural arch is less well-known than the Azure Window, which collapsed in March 2017 following a heavy storm.

Linger at Mgarr Harbour

Your experience at Mgarr Harbour might be fleeting, but this busy ferry port town is worthy of a longer look. Dominated by the hilltop Church of the Madonna of Lourdes, the town of Mgarr was a fishing village before tourism changed its fortunes; however, it still retains some of that sleepy appeal, especially once the ferry boat traffic slows in the evenings. There's a walkable waterfront, plus plenty of unfussy waterside bars and eateries.

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10 Tips for Visiting the Megalithic Temples in Malta & Gozo

Partway between mainland Europe and Africa in the Mediterranean Sea lies the small island of Malta and its even smaller neighbour Gozo. These islands are best known for their megalithic temples built by Neolithic inhabitants some 5 – 6,000 years ago. The temples are a testament to a tradition of prehistoric architecture that is totally unique to this part of the world. Recognising their international importance, UNESCO classified six of them as a World Heritage Site. Not surprising then the temples are a popular tourist attraction. Having recently visited the islands, these are my tips for visiting megalithic temples on Malta and Gozo.

Ethan Doyle White

• Last Checked and/or Updated 3 March 2024
• No Comments
• Malta & Gozo , Malta & Gozo Travel Tips , Travel Tips

The megalithic temples on Malta and Gozo were made using large limestone blocks, hence the label ‘megalithic’ – large stone. Typically they have circular features that have been called ‘apses’ and are often found to have contained carved female figurines. Eager to see these enigmatic ancient structures for myself, I visited the islands during November, a time of year which avoids the crowds, sweltering heat, and heightened prices of peak tourist season.

At the same time, the Mediterranean climate ensures that the autumnal weather is mild and for several hours a day I needed only a light jumper. Although Malta is a great place for archaeological explorers, particularly those interested in prehistory and ancient religion, one thing I soon realised was how important it is for visitors to plan ahead so that they make the most out of their adventures. Here then are my top ten tips for visiting the Megalithic temples on Malta and Gozo.

What Shouldn’t I Miss?

Over the centuries, archaeologists have discovered at least twenty megalithic temples on Malta and Gozo. Unfortunately many are not open to visitors, but the six that make up the UNESCO World Heritage Site are. No keen prehistorian can visit Malta without seeing these at least.

By far the best-known temples are Mnajdra and Ħaġar Qim, perched within 500 metres of each other on Malta’s south-eastern coastline. Built from limestone, both temples have suffered from weathering since archaeologists excavated them in the 19th century. To prevent further destruction, large protective tents now cover both sites, while a visitor’s centre exhibits a small collection of the artefacts discovered there. Within walking distance of the temples are the Misqa Tanks, potentially prehistoric water storage tanks carved into the natural rock, as well as the Ħamrija Tower built for defence in the 17th century (Read More About the Coastal Towers of Malta & Gozo ).

Back in the more urbanised eastern side of Malta is the Tarxien Temple, a complex of Neolithic buildings that were later used as a Bronze Age cemetery. Like Mnajdra and Ħaġar Qim, a large protective tent now encloses them to prevent any further destruction from the Mediterranean elements. A short walking distance from the Tarxien Temples is the Ħal-Saflieni Hypogeum, a subterranean rock-hewn cemetery complex discovered in the early 20th century. Although considered separate from the megalithic temples themselves, since 1980 it has been classed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right.

Heading to the north of the island, one can find the Ta’ Ħaġrat and Skorba temples. The former is in the town of Mġarr and the latter in the nearby village of Żebbiegħ. Although not as impressive as temples like Tarxien and Mnajdra, both sites are highly recommended. Neither currently have a protective tent, and therefore offer a sensory experience of the sites as they exist in their fully outdoor environment.

In Gozo, the Ġgantija temples are among the most impressive of all those on the Maltese islands. Here, two temples stand side by side, encircled by the same megalithic wall and overlooking Nuffara Hill, home to a Bronze Age settlement. Like the temples at Skorba and Ta’ Ħaġrat, the Ġgantija temples are still open-air, although the overall impression is hindered slightly by scaffolding and metal girders holding parts of the temple in place.

What About the Museums?

As well as the temples themselves, the Maltese islands boast several museums containing artefacts found during site excavations. In several cases, the two are linked: with impressive modern exhibits on display at Ġgantija as well as the Mnajdra and Ħaġar Qim visitor’s centre. The latter even includes a brief interactive cinema experience taking the viewer through thousands of years of history.

Definitely worth a visit is the National Museum of Archaeology in Valetta. Although some of the rooms and labels are a bit dated and tatty, the museum’s collection of prehistoric artefacts is among the finest in Europe. It includes various engraved and patterned megaliths as well as a fascinating collection of rounded female figurines, including the famous Sleeping Lady sculpture. I recommend visiting this museum before any of the temples themselves, to get a better appreciation for the periods in question. Set aside at least two hours to ensure that you see everything.

When in Gozo, consider popping into the Gozo Museum of Archaeology, a small affair located in the Medieval citadel of the Gozan capital city, which is known as either Victoria or Rabat. Although its prehistoric collection is restricted to a few sparse cabinets, it includes several interesting items excavated from the Ġgantija Temples and Xagħra Stone Circle (the latter sadly closed to the public). For those with an interest in later periods, the rooms devoted to Roman and Medieval archaeology are more likely to impress. The entire museum can be seen in 20 to 30 minutes, and is ideally paired with a wider exploration of Victoria’s Medieval fortifications.

Are There Combination Tickets?

The best option for those wanting to visit all the sites mentioned here might be to buy the Multisite Pass , which costs €50 for adults, €38 for students and retired people, and €25 for children. It remains valid for 30 days from its first use. This allows entry into all the sites mentioned here except the Ħal-Saflieni Hypogeum. In addition, it permits entry to a wide range of other sites of archaeological and historic interest across Malta and Gozo, and gives a 10% discount in Heritage Malta shops. In all the pass gives access to 23 sites and museums. This is a good option for those who intend on visiting not just the temples but other sites as well, particularly if you are staying on the island for two or more weeks.

Those with a more limited time in Malta would be financially better off purchasing individual tickets for specific sites. In those cases where the temples are close to one another, one tickets serves entrance to both sites. The most obvious case of this is at Mnajdra and Ħaġar Qim, which are covered by a single entry-fee. Similarly, only a single ticket is provided for both Skorba and Ta’ Ħaġrat; I should add that the ticket also includes entry to the Ta’ Bistra catacombs, dating from the late Roman period.

When on Gozo, the entry ticket to Ġgantija also permits entry to the nearby Ta’ Kola Windmill, built in the 18th century. Tickets to the Gozo Museum of Archaeology entitle you to entry to the Cittadella Visitor Centre, Gran Castello Historic House, Gozo Nature Museum, and Old Prison. Unfortunately, due to time constraints, I was only able to visit the archaeological museum. Those on a day trip to Gozo from Malta should similarly not expect to include all these sites into their itinerary, particularly if you wish to visit Ġgantija.

Where Should I Stay?

The megalithic temples are scattered across Malta and Gozo, rather than being clustered in any one area. It is therefore impossible to stay in one place that puts you in walking distance of them all, and – unless you hire a car – public transport will be essential.

Malta’s transport hub is on the western outskirts of its capital city, Valetta. Encircled by walls and towers built between the 16th and 19th centuries, this small yet beautiful city is located on the island’s eastern coast. Basing yourself in the west of Valetta or just outside of it places you in the best position to make use of the country’s transport links. I stayed in Floriana, a more rough-and-ready, working-class area to the west of the city, which meant that I had to walk for less than five minutes to the bus stop each morning, an ideal situation for the archaeological explorer.

Being located in either Valetta or Floriana also means that you have access to a wider range of eateries, bars, and shops than are present in most other parts of Malta. It also means that you are in walking distance of the city’s various attractions, which include the National Museum of Archaeology, the 16th-century Saint John’s Co-Cathedral, and the palatial Casa Rocca Piccola. As well as connecting you with transport links to archaeological sites, it also ensures that you are only a thirty minute bus ride away from the night-life hub of St Julian’s, ideal for those wanting to party on a Friday or Saturday night.

Do I Need to Plan Ahead?

One thing I learned (at times to my cost) during my trip to Malta is that it really is important to plan ahead when it comes to visiting the temples. This is particularly the case with Skorba and Ta’ Ħaġrat, which are off the main tourist trail and only open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Tickets cannot be purchased at the sites themselves, but must be obtained either online (here for Skorba, and here for Ta’ Ħaġrat) and/or beforehand at the National Museum of Archaeology, which is located on the other side of the island. Those hoping that they will be able to see these two sites without a prior ticket will be disappointed; I saw one man being turned away from Ta’ Ħaġrat by a security guard for arriving without a ticket.

It is also important to make sure that you know exactly where each site is and how to get there. While sites like Mnajdra and Ħaġar Qim are well-signposted and easy to find, the others are not. I would therefore recommend that you make use of a good printed map or online resource like a Google Map, and if using public transport ask the bus driver to let you know what stop to get off at.

What About the Ħal-saflieni Hypogeum?

Perhaps the jewel in the crown of the Maltese megaliths is the Ħal-Saflieni Hypogeum, a subterranean cemetery in Paola. Unfortunately, I never got to see it. To preserve the site, only eighty visitors are allowed in per day, and demand is high. I had hoped to obtain a ticket once I had arrived in Malta, although by that point it was fully booked. Planning again!

Avoid making the same mistake as I did and reserve your slot before travelling to the island! You can book online on the official Heritage Malta website. For peak tourist seasons tickets are booked up well in advance.

How Do I Get to the Temples?

Malta has no railway system and thus sites can only be reached by road. One option is to hire a car, although it might prove difficult to find parking spaces if staying in or around Valetta. Roads are typically small, winding, and (in urban areas) congested, which may put-off some drivers. Sites like Mnajdra/Ħaġar Qim have a car park although others, like Ta’ Ħaġrat, Skorba, and the Tarxien Temples, will require parking in a nearby road.

Another option is to use public buses. This was how I got around most of Malta, and was pleasantly surprised to find that a 7-day pass cost only €21 (€15 for children). This pass could be purchased from the airport or the bus station outside Valetta. From the city, I was able to get buses to every one of the temples on Malta itself and thus it was certainly satisfactory for my needs.

The downside however is that the public buses are unreliable. I found that they rarely arrived at the designated time and often got bogged down in congestion. There were occasions where I had to wait for well over an hour for a bus and the likelihood of delays had to be factored in when planning my itinerary each day.

Another option is to use the Hop On-Hop Off bus service run by a private company. This is the more expensive option, with tickets being €18 for adults (€10 for children) and only remaining valid for one day. It is nevertheless more reliable than the public transport service, with these buses arriving at each stop every 45 minutes. This service is primarily designed for general site-seeing rather than for the narrower pursuit of megalith hunting, although still holds advantages for archaeological explorers. I used the City Sightseeing hop-on hop-off service during my day trip to Gozo , and although it meant following a set route rather than heading straight for Ġgantija, it had the benefit of an accompanying audiotrack informing me of the history of the places we were passing through. I would certainly recommend it for those wanting to see as many historical and natural beauty sites as possible during a day-trip.

Please note: there are a number of hop-on hop-off service on Malta. To choose the best one for you, make sure the sites you want to see are on the itinerary.

City Sightseeing Malta – has the best coverage, in my opinion, with 50 points of interest on two routes. For the temples, the south route includes the Tarxien, Hagar Qim and Mnajdra temples. The service offered by Malta Sightseeing is not as extensive, but it does include the Hypogeum as well as the Hagar Qim & Mnajdra temples, but not the Tarxien temples.

Gozo – there are two services: City Sightseeing Gozo and Gozo Sightseeing . Both stop at the Ggantija temple. The first, the one I used, is the cheapest.  And that pass can be combined with a day-return ferry ticket to Gozo from two different ports in Malta (Sliema or Bugibba in St. Paul’s Bay). 

As well as using cars or buses, some walking will also be inevitable. From Ħaġar Qim to Mnajdra, for instance, is a 500-metre pathway. This is a smooth and easy walk, although those wishing to branch off the trail to visit nearby sites like the Misqa Tanks and the Ħamrija Tower must be prepared for rockier terrain. The journey from Skorba to Ta’ Ħaġrat takes twenty to thirty minutes by foot, and may be difficult for those with limited mobility.

Getting from Malta to Gozo requires the use of a ferry. This runs from Cirkewwa on Malta’s northern coast to the smaller island, with ferries usually departing every 45 minutes. Ferries taking the opposite journey, from Mgarr in Gozo to Cirkewwa, also run every 45 minutes. A reasonably priced ticket covers both outgoing and return journeys. It is also possible to get a ferry from Sliema or Bugibba in St. Paul’s Bay to Gozo from Malta; a ferry-hop-on hop-off combination ticket is available as a day return . 

For the beginning and/or end of your trip to Malta, you may want a private airport transfer to/from your hotel . 

Can I Join a Guided Tour?

Most of the sites do not offer guided tours, although an audio-guide is available at Mnajdra and Ħaġar Qim for a small additional fee. Guided tours that are independent of the Heritage Malta are available. As I was travelling on a budget, and I prefer to make my own way around these sites without the restrictions of a guided itinerary, I did not take a guided tour, but there are many available. Guided tours are a good option for those who want to see a few of the main sites, have all their transport requirements taken care of, and have a guided tour of the site. 

The Prehistoric Temple of Malta Tour is a 5-hour tour includes the temples of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra, as well as the Ghar Dalam cave & museum and the Hamrija Tower, one of the 13 watchtowers built by the legendary Knights of Malta.

Looking for an all-in day trip to Gozo to see the Ggantija temples – this 9-Hour Gozo Day Trip includes pick up and drop off at your hotel in Malta, return ferry ticket, an itinerary that includes Dwejra, the Citadel of Rabat, as well as the ancient Ggantija Temples.

Where Can I Get Food and Drink?

None of the sites I visited have cafes or restaurants attached, so visitors must look elsewhere for food and drink. So I chose to buy supplies in the shops near where I was staying in Floriana and prepared a packed lunch each morning. That helped me keeping costs down and saved time searching for cafes, which meant I could see more of the archaeology by staying longer at the sites.

Those who prefer a sit-down meal have a few options available to them. Tarxien and the Hypogeum are in an urban area, approximately fifteen minutes’ walk from the main high street at Paola, where various bakeries and cheap food outlets are located. There is also a small, cheap café close to Skorba.

The Mnajdra/Ħaġar Qim visitor’s centre is in a rural environment with few amenities. There is a coffee vending machine, but unless you want a cup of tepid milk I would not recommend it. Those wanting something to eat and/or drink should go to the nearby village of Qrendi or town of Siġġiewi, although I do not have personal experience of either.

In Gozo, the Ġgantija temples are in the urban environment of Xagħra, where several cafes and eateries are found, although few appeared open for lunch when I visited. Greater options are available in Victoria/Rabat, the capital city where the Gozo Museum of Archaeology is located.

Are There Toilets and Gift Shops?

Toilet facilities vary at the different sites. Decent indoor facilities are present at the Mnajdra/Ħaġar Qim visitor’s centre, Ġgantija, and at the Tarxien Temples. There is no facility at Skorba itself, although a public toilet is almost directly adjacent. The only toilet facility at Ta’ Ħaġrat is a portaloo.

Guide books and souvenirs are available for sale at several sites, including the Tarxien Temples, the Mnajdra/Ħaġar Qim Temples, Ġgantija, and the National Museum of Archaeology. The museum’s shop sells excavation reports for those seeking more than just an introductory guide to Malta’s Neolithic heritage. Conversely, there are no gift shops at either Skorba or Ta’ Ħaġrat.

Small figurines, fridge magnets, and other items drawing upon the iconography of Malta’s prehistory are also available in tourist shops situated on the departure side of the island’s only airport.

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10 amazing places to visit in gozo, malta.

Did you know that the country Malta consists of multiple islands? The main island of Malta which you all know, and many smaller islands such as Gozo and Comino. When I asked several people for travel tips about Malta, everyone recommended me a visit to the island of Gozo. This smaller, but non less impressive, sister of Malta is best known for its authenticity and beautiful landscapes. I certainly wanted to experience this with my own eyes and planned a day trip to Gozo during our stay in Malta, with a visit to the most memorable places. Gozo is a very small island, but has so much to offer. It’s very versatile and there is certainly something for every taste. It varies from orange beaches with azure blue coasts to immense salt plains, enchanting bays, lush countryside and the most impressive rock formations. Travel with me to all the best places to visit in Gozo.

** This blog post contains affiliate links, which means that we can receive a commission if you buy something that we really recommend. This does not cost you any extra costs and supports our blog. Thank you!**

How to get to Gozo?

Now, how can you travel from the island of Malta to Gozo island and return? It has never been so easy. From Cirkewwa in Malta, ferries sail daily at regular times to Mgarr in Gozo.

You can make the crossing by car, by bicycle or as a pedestrian. And even better, you don’t have to pay anything from Malta to Gozo. Only when returning from Gozo to Malta you have to pay a one-time ticket.

On arrival at the spots where the ferries dock, everything is well marked. Sometimes you just have to wait a little, but all in all everything goes pretty smoothly. Once parked on the ferry, I advise you to get a seat somewhere in the ferry as quickly as possible. Especially during the high season it can get quite busy on the ferry, so sometimes there aren’t enough seats. If you’re unlucky you’ll have to stand. And if you quickly suffer from seasickness like me, that isn’t the best idea. The crossing takes about 30 minutes.

Best time to travel Gozo?

The best to travel to Gozo is of course the same as that of Malta, from April to October. Then you have the best chance of good weather. Gozo is much smaller than the main island of Malta. This makes it easier to see several sights in one day. During the summer months it can get busy here. Because of this, you may need a little more time to see everything. That is why I advise you to visit Gozo outside the high season.

Of course you can choose to stay a little longer in Gozo so that you have some more time to explore this beautiful island.

Where to stay in Gozo?

If you would like to stay a little longer on the island, I have already selected some of the most beautiful and authentic accommodations for you.

Maria’s B&B

Maria’s B&B is located in the smallest village of Gozo in the countryside of Ghasri. You are guaranteed to experience an unforgettable experience in this 19th-century authentic farm.

Photo credit: booking.com

Click for availability and prices

Casa Gemelli Boutique Guesthouse

This unique property is located in the city of Victoria, between the Asta and Aurora theatres. Talk about a TOP location!

Sweef life Gozo

This top residence is located one kilometer from Xlendi beach and has phenomenal views. This is the perfect place to completely unwind.

Are you looking for a place to stay at a different location in Gozo? Then you can easily search with this useful map from booking.com. You will find a perfect stay at your location of choice in no time.

The best places to visit in Gozo

1- san blas beach.

The first place I’ll introduce you to is San Blas Beach. This is a small, secluded beach with orange sand and stunning rock formations. The beach is only accessible via a narrow, steep road from the nearby village. However, the last part is not accessible to vehicles, so we had to walk down.

The steep path downwards scares many people away, so the beach receives fewer visitors than the other popular, much-visited beaches on the island. Personally, I don’t mind because I don’t like overcrowded beaches. The small, dreamy bay in an enchanting, natural setting is therefore not only perfect for an excellent photo shoot, but also for a day of water fun or even a romantic sunset.

2- Tal mixta cave

A must-do in Gozo is a visit to the Tal Mixta Cave. This is a beautiful, natural cave that is located in the top of a rock. From here you have a breathtaking view of Ramla Bay. The cave can be reached via a hike from Ramla Bay beach. I’ve heard that the trail is gorgeous, well-marked and not too intense at all. Since we didn’t have much time, we decided to try the other way. Someone explained we could reach the top of the rock by car as well and descend via some stairs to enter the cave.

Once we reached the top of the rock and parked the car, we didn’t know exactly where to go. The road to the cave was not indicated and we were on private property. When we saw some other people walking to the edge of the rock, we decided to follow them. They walked past the house on the right, towards the garden. Suddenly we noticed a very small staircase down, to the left of the garden. You really have to look very carefully to find it!

When we descended the stairs, we immediately entered the cave. And our expectations were fully met, when we witnessed this breathtaking view.  We took a moment to enjoy the panorama over the spectacular Ramla Bay.

Remember that the cave is a favorite tourist attraction. If you want to take some sublime shots, try to avoid rush hours and go in the mornings.

3- Ramla bay

Ramla Bay is one of the best known and most extensive beaches of Gozo. This because of the beautiful orange color of the sand and the azure blue color of the Mediterranean sea. In other words, a paradise for sun- and water lovers. Many tourists are looking for a spot on this beautiful beach to spend their hot summer days. So it can get very busy here during high season.

Would you like to discover Gozo from the sea? You can do that via one of amazing tours at Getyourguide. View the different offers below.

4- Salt plains of Qbajjar

The salt plains in Gozo are one of the most popular sights. And not for nothing, because they are very spectacular. This area is located along the North coast of Gozo. There you can admire, as far as the eye can see, salt pans floating on the sea surface.

I was completely blown away by the more than 350-year-old salt pans that are passed on from generation to generation and are still used for salt production. Again a very photogenic spot where you can take impressive pictures. We climbed on the rocks on the other side of the sea to find a good viewpoint. From there we had a good and original perspective to visualize the salt pans.

Many photographers would like to take a photo on top of the salt pans. However, this is not nice for the locals and also not safe at all. The walls between the salt plains, crumble when being stepped on.  At some spots walking on the salt pans is already prohibited. Please consider that these are still used by the locals and that this is their job.

Along the way we stopped for a delicious lunch in Qbajjar restaurant , within walking distance of the salt plains. We enjoyed the real traditional Mediterranean cuisine with all its benifits.

Also restaurant Il-Kartel , near this location, is highly recommended. Be sure to try the pasta Vongole there.

5- Wied Il-Ghasri

From the dry salt plains to the Wied Il-Ghasri bay in the middle of nature. How wonderful and varied can this island be? Again I was so surprised by this new and very unique location.

After a short descent via stairs made out of stones, we arrived at a small peaceful beach covered with boulders. With in between two rocks, a narrow, long and winding bay that leads to the sea.

When we climbed over the rocks, we could walk towards the sea alongside the bay. Here some people looked for a quiet place to sit. We also stopped to just admire and enjoy the mesmerizing scenery for a moment.  However I could easily spend a whole day here.

6- Wied Il-Mielaħ

In 2017 the most famous rock bridge “The Azure Window” in Gozo collapsed. This is also the location where the marriage of Daenerys Targaryen and Khal Drogo in the Game of Thrones series was shot.

If you like colossal and impressive rock formations like us, than Wied-Il-Mielah is a good alternative.

7- Admire the Ta ‘Pinu Basilica from the countryside

On the way from Wied Il-Ghrasi to Wied Il-Mielah we drove along the most winding and breathtaking roads through the countryside of Gozo. During the spring when everything is blossoming, this is the ideal place for a bike ride or a brisk hike. We kept our eyes peeled and stopped by the road once in a while to take a snapshot. From here we also had a great view of the famous Ta ‘Pinu Basilica. If you have enough time, be sure to take a look inside.

8- Sanap Cliffs

The impressive Sanap Cliffs are one of the most hidden gems on Gozo. They are also one of the highest points on the island. The cliffs offer a beautiful view all the way to the bay of Xlendi. The best time to admire this wonderful panorama is during sunset.

Near the Sanap Cliffs you can also enjoy walking along the beautifully landscaped hiking trails while admiring the spectacular views.

9- Blue Hole

The Blue Hole is best known among divers. It’s an internationally acclaimed dive site. But the Blue Hole is also worth a visit for the non-divers among us. You can also admire this beautiful natural phenomenon from the surrounding rocks.

At the Bleu hole you can also see the Fungus Rock, a colossal rock that rises out of nowhere from the sea. The rock was an important place in history beacause a precious medicinal plant grew here. That is why this rock was heavily guarded and only those who received permission were allowed to pick the plant. The Knights of St. John even leveled the sides to ensure that climbing the rock was an impossible task.

Near the Blue Hole and the Fungus Rock you will find Dwejra, also called the inland sea of ​​Gozo. This is a lagoon of beautiful blue sea water that is connected to the Mediterranean Sea through an opening in the rocks in the shape of an arch. This place is surrounded by small authentic boat houses with colorful gates, which makes it all the more attractive to linger here for a while and take a refreshing dip.

10- Discover Gozo in an original way

You can also discover Gozo in an original way through Getyourguide. You can opt for different tours that take you along the most beautiful Gozo sights. View the offer below and book the best deals.

The island of Gozo was one of the biggest surprises of Malta for me. This versatile island is definitely worth a visit. Are you traveling to Malta soon? Then you now know why Gozo should not be missing on your Malta itinerary. Visit the most beautiful places in Gozo with my tips.

If you like to read more about Malta, be sure to check out my other Malta blog posts.

• The ultimalte 7 days Malta itinerary.
• Traveling Malta in april. Is that a good idea?
• 10 amazing things to do in Valletta.

Is Gozo already on your bucket list? Tell me all about it in the comment section.

Thank you for reading.

Yours truly,

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Sarah de gheselle, 12 thoughts on “ 10 amazing places to visit in gozo, malta ”.

Beautiful images! I was lucky to see the rock bridge before it collapsed. Malta is a beautiful country with great cuisine!

Thank you so much. And yes, it is . I had such a wonderful vaction there.

Wow!! Your photos are gorgeous!! This looks like an amazing place to visit!

Thank you so much. If you visit Malta, be sure to make a day trip to Gozo.

OMG, I love Malta so much, it is such an amazing place to explore!!! For sure, I haven’t been to any places you’ve shared here, as last time we only had 3.5 days in Malta… and that was our first time! Definitely want to schedule another trip to Malta/Gozo island, to explore more!

Oh yes, we had only a week and I still feel that I haven’t seen all what Malta has to offer. Such a stunnin travel destination!

Beautiful images xx I grew up in Malta but made it a point to visit Gozo whenever I could! Especially for Carnival!

Malta as well as Gozo are stunning island. I haven’t seen Comnino yet, but I’ll go back to explore it for sure!

Your photos never fail to mesmerize me! I love your perfect shades of blues!

Thank you so much! That really means the world to me.

Breathtaking! I much prefer the hidden gems and lesser-known places. I do have Malta on my list so adding a day trip to Gozo.

Oh yes, then you will definitely love Gozo.

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The Ultimate Gozo Itinerary: 4 Days Exploring In the Spring

• Updated: 02/01/2024

As an American, I love traveling to Europe in the spring —the flights are cheaper, the crowds are smaller, and the prices on everything are lower versus the high-season summertime. I am on an onging quest to find the best springtime destinations to visit in Europe.

For our family, Malta was a huge spring-trip homerun.

Table Of Contents

It delivered everything I could have hoped for— great weather , fascinating history , beautiful architecture , delicious food , and plenty of natural beauty —especially on Gozo.

So, if you are looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path Mediterranean destination , Gozo—particularly in the spring—will delight you.  Follow our 4-day itinerary with recommendations to make the most of your Gozo visit.

In the summer , Malta, including Gozo, is hotter and drier . Expect to see less green and more desert scrub-like landscapes. Although ideal for swimming, boating, snorkeling, and scuba diving , summer temps make it less ideal to enjoy the walks and hikes we did unless you plan to carry plenty of water or do them early in the morning or later in the day when the sun is not at its strongest.

Need more reasons to visit Malta? Check out this list of 1 7 reasons why Malta should be at the top of your trip list.

Why Visit Gozo

Gozo is one of three inhabited islands of the Maltese archipelago , located in the Mediterranean Sea. It is  an independent EU country , 50 miles south of Sicily and ~200 miles north of Libya, where the primary languages are Maltese and English.

Malta has been a crossroads of civilization for millennia . Visitors can expect to explore Neolithic ruins, walled fortresses, and settlements once home to Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, French, and British.

Watch the Google Earth clip to see where to find it.

Despite its small size at ~26 square miles, Gozo is packed with stunning landscapes, rich history, and excellent cuisine, making it an ideal place to visit. And one that is easy to navigate.

With its crystal-clear waters, dramatic coastlines with hidden coves, and charming villages , Gozo offers a unique and authentic away-from-the-crowds experience that will charm even the most jaded of frequent European travelers. 

Check out my itinerary below to get ideas for your Gozo visit. 

4 Days in Gozo At-a-Glance

Day 1: arrive in gozo, check-in, dinner in xlendi.

• Day 2: Gharb to Gharb Coastal Hike & Victoria
• Day 3: Salt Pans, Wied-il-Ghasri, Xaghra, & Ramla Beach
• Day 4: Explore Dwjera Bay & Xlendi Walk
• Take the Gozo Fast Ferry from Valletta to Mgarr Harbor in Gozo.
• Collect our rental car from Gozo Quad Hire .
• Drive to Viewpoint Boutique Living and check-in.
• Enjoy the view from the pool and a glass of prosecco.
• Dinner at delicious Ta’ Karolina in Xlendi.

How to use this map:  In the map header, click the square tab to the left of my logo or click the enlarge frame to the right to view detail. You can save the map to “Your Places” on Google Maps by clicking the star next to the map name. Or you can share it by clicking the share icon.

After one more day exploring the island of Malta, we took the Gozo Fast Ferry from its wharf side departure point in Valletta just northeast of Fort Lascaris. 

Pulling our suitcases after us, we lined up in the queue for an afternoon ferry to Mgarr Harbor in Gozo, buying tickets at the ferry office before boarding. 

After a 45-minute journey running parallel to the Maltese coastline, we docked at Mgarr Harbor, disembarking to meet our pick-up from Gozo Quad Hire , where we had pre-arranged the rental of an automatic transmission car with the help of our lodging.

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Once set in the car, we steeled our right-side driving nerves to drive on the left through the outskirts of Victoria and the warren of winding village streets to make our way to Viewpoint Boutique Living , our highly rated seven-room boutique hotel just outside the picturesque seaside village of Xlendi.

Arriving successfully, we checked in with Doreen, the helpful, friendly, and deeply knowledgeable owner of Viewpoint Boutique Living . We loved our affordable double family room and the incredible view from the pool—enjoyed with a glass of prosecco taken from our room’s mini fridge.

Taking Doreen’s advice and assistance with making a reservation, we dined that evening in nearby Xlendi overlooking the water on an excellent meal of spicy and smoky mussels shown below, duck breast, nero pasta with seafood, and ravioli porcini at Ta’ Karolina —one of our top three meals of the trip.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Janice | Exceptional Family & Friend Group Travel (@gatherandgotravel)

Day 2: Gharb to Gharb Coastal Hike & Victoria

• Delicious breakfast included with our room at Viewpoint Boutique Living .
• Drive to the village of Gharb, park, and buy a picnic lunch at a local grocery.
• Follow the Gharb, It-Tieqa, and Ghasri Circular (8.0 mile) walking route in AllTrails.
• Picnic lunch at the top of Wied il-Mielah.
• Return to our hotel to rest and relax.
• Drive to Victoria, park at the Citadel, and walk the ramparts at sunset.
• Dinner at Maldonado Bistro in Victoria.

Of the several enjoyable things about staying at Viewpoint Boutique Living, the ample and delicious breakfast included in the price of our stay and enjoyed under a canopy on the pool deck tops the list. 

In addition to the main dishes we had preordered the night before—like a spinach and tomato frittata, avocado toast with a poached egg, a full English breakfast, and salmon with eggs—Doreen and her husband provide a generous first course of toasts, fruits, and yogurts.

Breakfast wrapped up with a selection of delicious baked goods and sweets that we were always too full to eat but took along for hiking snacks later in the morning. 

Fully satisfied, we drove into the nearby village of Gharb to park our car opposite the main parish church, a beautiful baroque-style structure from 17th century, and to shop for picnic supplies from the local grocery. 

From the main Gharb piazza, we began the 8-mile circular walk that would take us through the town, along fields bursting with spring flowers and some of the most dramatic coastline of the island. 

To follow this route which goes by several names, such as the Gharb to Gharb Walk, the Gharb, It-Tieqa, and Ghasri Circular, or the Ta’ Gurdan Walk, we used two resources.

In addition to downloading the offline contour map from AllTrails , we used the “Ta’ Gurdan Walk’ information pamphlet , which includes route notes and is published and provided for free by Gozo Tourism Association. 

One of the best features of the paid AllTrails+ membership is download access for offline hiking contour maps. With these maps—I can GPS-track our hiking progress without draining my phone battery or using excessive data.

Although we did not complete the entire walk as the kids got tired after climbing to the lighthouse, where we arranged a ride share (Bolt) to pick us up, we thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this entirely worthwhile and beautiful route along Gozo’s rugged coastline.

Highlights along the way included trails surrounded by colorful spring flowers, visiting the 15th-century San Dmitri chapel , which offered excellent views up to the Ta’ Gurdan Lighthouse in the distance, and walking the lunar-like wind-sculpted landscape of Gozo’s limestone northern coast.

In addition, we deeply appreciated the raw beauty of the Wied il-Mielah gorge where on the windy day we visited, we could see the ocean crashing through and about its massive rock arch.

After returning to our car and our hotel for a chance to rest and relax, we drove out again to nearby Victoria, following Doreen’s advice, to park at the Citadel  lot and climb the ramparts of this recently rebuilt 16-century fortress to view the sunset and incredible views of the island. 

From there, we walked a short distance to nearby Maldonado Bistro to arrive in time for our evening reservation. This restaurant, recommended and booked by Doreen, was my absolute favorite of the trip. 

Within its castle-like interior lined with softly-lit stone archways and framed with recessed bookshelves full of colorful cookbooks, this restaurant served among the most perfectly cooked food I have eaten while traveling. 

We loved the tapenades with the fresh bread of different varieties. The local wine was light and lovely. And my main dish of truffle agnolotti was balanced, subtle, and outstanding.

My daughter’s herb-stuffed chicken was perhaps the most perfectly cooked poultry I have ever eaten, paired with precision-roasted and braised vegetables.

For dessert—we had three of which my favorite was the multi-layered gateaux with nuts and ice cream. 

For such a gourmet meal, we found the prices reasonable and even low for such an elevated culinary experience.

Day 3: Salt Pans, Wied-il-Ghasri, Xaghra, & Ramla Beach

• Drive to Xwejni Bay , and park along Triq Ix-Xwejni near the salt shops. Walk the road west to view the Salt Pans . Continue to stunning Wied il-Ghasri gorge.
• Drive to Xaghra. Eat lunch al fresco at Cafe Reale .
• Drive to Ramla Beach and stroll the beach, then hike the trail to Tal Mixta Cave for sweeping views.
• Walk up the other side of the bay past the abandoned Ulysses Lodge to closed Calypso Cave for more views.
• Dinner at trendy Terrazzo in Xlendi.

After such an incredible second day on Gozo, I felt there was little chance of equaling it. Of course, given the wonders of this tiny island, I should have known I would be blown away yet again.

Following another excellent breakfast and Doreen’s what-to-do-in-Gozo advice, we drove north toward Xwejni Bay to park adjacent to the salt pans where locals have been harvesting salt for centuries, to walk along the coast to view their stark beauty as we made our way to the jaw-droppingly beautiful Wied-il-Ghashri gorge.

Upon reaching the gorge, we ignored the warning signs and followed the stairs to this secluded inlet with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling in warmer and calmer weather.

As it was spring when we visited and cooler and the water rougher, swimming was not an option, but sitting while gazing and eating a snack was. 

Another benefit of visiting in the spring, this small gorge area which can become crowded in the summer, is and in comparison, sparsely visited in the spring. At the end of March, we saw no more than 10 to 15 other people during our 30-minute stay.

From the gorge, we headed back toward our car, stopping along the way to get a closer view of the salt pans and at a salt store to buy Gozitan salt to bring home. 

If you like to cook, buy Gozitan salt as a souvenir . We cook frequently and have been using the salt we purchased near the salt pans in salads, focaccias, and roast vegetables—it is excellent and superior to anything we can buy at our local grocery .

Hungry from walking, we drove to and parked in the picturesque village of Xaghra to enjoy lunch in one of its several al fresco restaurants ringing its large piazza.

We ate a mix of paninis, pizzas, and salads outdoors at Cafe Reale , washed down with incredibly affordable beers while enjoying the sun and people watching.

After lunch, we drove down to Ramla Beach , one of Gozo’s best beaches, with a wide swath of red-hued sand framed by hills topped with caves. 

Although the temperature hovered in the upper 60s during our visit, the sun made it feel warmer, which helped the many determined sunbathers and swimmers visiting the beach that day.

Strolling down pretty Ramla Beach, we headed to its eastern edge to follow the narrow and unmarked footpath up to the mouth of Tal Mixta Cave . Getting to the cave this way offered a tremendous and gorgeous shortcut offering amazing views versus driving up the backside, parking, and walking up the road.

If you are considering hiking up to the mouth of Tal Mixta Cave from Ramla Beach , know the unmarked trail, which takes about 20 minutes to complete, is relatively simple to follow. Though the footpath gets steeper toward the top, requiring some scrambling and handholds, which makes the hike slightly challenging. To ensure we were on the correct route, I zoomed in on a contour map in AllTrails for Gozo to view the dashed line footpaths not visible on Google Maps.

And for our poor tired kids, just because I believe that no hike or view should be left undone, we hiked up the south side of the beach past the restrooms to reach the now-closed (due to a collapse) Calypso Cave , alleged to have been the home of the nymph Calypso, of  Homer’s Odyssey . 

To get to this cave and the view, hike past the abandoned and somewhat creepy Ulysses Lodge, then continue along the road to the cave entrance.

From Ramla Beach, we returned to Viewpoint Living for rest and relaxation before driving back into nearby Xlendi to dine at trendy Terrazzo —in a prime cliffside location with beautiful views up and down the Xlendi coast. 

Although we found the bread here, which is paired with butter and chives, to be the best we had anywhere in Malta, the service was uncommonly slow , likely due to several large parties being seated at once. In addition, we found the food preparation inconsistent and the prices higher than other similar restaurants. 

Although we probably picked a poor night to try Terrazzo— perhaps it was understaffed and overbooked—given another opportunity, we may have opted to eat elsewhere. 

Day 4: Explore Dwjera Bay & Xlendi Walk

• Drive to Dwjera, park in the lot, and explore the Blue Hole and Coral Gardens along its coast. Follow the trail to Dwjera Bay and to the top of Crocodile Rock.
• Return to the parking area and walk to Inland Sea for a 15-minute boat ride.
• Stop at Ta’ Dbiegi Crafts Village for shopping.
• Drive to Xlendi, park, and enjoy a seaside lunch at Pirates Galley .
• Walk the cliffside steps in Xlendi to the viewpoint and down to Carolina Grotto. 
• Dinner at Ta’ Tona in Mgarr Harbor.

Prioritizing for the things we wanted to do most today, our last full day in Gozo, and with Doreen’s input, we opted to drive out to Dwjera to view its stunning bay and coastline, once home to the iconic Azure Window rock formation which unfortunately collapsed in 2017, though still has much to commend it.

Parking in the main Dwjera lot, we followed the paths to the right to make our way to beautiful rock formations and sheltered pools of the stunning Coral Garden area. Unprepared for these pretty views, we soaked it in, feeling awe at another day of beauty in Gozo.

Next, we backed-tracked through the lot and up the road to catch the trail leading to the cliff-ringed Dwerja Bay . We passed only a handful of people as we made our way along the coast and down to the bay waterline.

Beyond one other couple who kept on hiking soon after we arrived, our family had this stunning view to ourselves.

Once back at the main parking lot, we followed signs and walked the short distance to the Inland Sea to catch a €4 per person 15-minute boat tour to experience the surrounding cliffs, caves, and turquoise waters within.

Refreshed with cold drinks from a kiosk on the shore after our tour, we headed back toward Xlendi for lunch, stopping at the Ta’ Diegi Crafts Village for shopping.  

In Xlendi, we grabbed a lowkey lunch at Pirates Galley before heading up the cliffside steps just past the Ta’ Karolina restaurant to catch panoramic views and follow the path down and into pretty Carolina Grotto . 

We finished our last night in Gozo with a reservation and dinner at Ta’ Tona in Mgarr Harbor, Doreen’s favorite restaurant on the island. The service was excellent, the clientele a mix of tourists and Maltese, and the seafood specialties we tried were expertly cooked and delicious.

It was a perfect epicurean ending to our wonderful four days on Gozo.

Related Reading

If you are traveling to Malta, check out my “ Malta: The Best Books to Read Before a Trip ” booklist below to get a Malta reading list.

Then, check out this list of resources for more trip ideas and to help you prep and pack for your trip.

Need an Itinerary for a Spring Trip to Europe? Here are 25 Amazing Ideas

• Pack Faster & Better with This Universal Printable Packing List
• 25 Expert Packing Tips to Help You Travel Better
• Pre-Trip: A Practical Checklist to Close the House & Pack

Additional Trip Planning Resources

To further help you with travel planning, I share my go-to resources for every trip below. 

Google Flights. My first research stop for affordable flights for every trip. Learn why here . 

Google Hotels . Use its “ Where to stay ” button to discover the best neighborhoods to base your visit.

Booking.com. For hotel and rental bookings, I appreciate its flexible cancellation, candid user reviews, discounts, loyalty program, and easy-to-use interface.

Viator , Get Your Guide , & Airbnb Experiences . Quickly find and book highly-rated tours and activities on these sites.

Google Travel Things to Do & Google Maps . Find more things to do in your destination on Google Travel, then record where you want to visit on a custom Google Maps list. 

AllTrails . Love to hike? Me too. I religiously use AllTrails to discover hiking and biking trails and download its offline maps to manage my hikes.

Guide Along . 5-star self-guided audio tours that are GPS-compatible for US road trips and national parks. We loved the Glacier National Park tour .

Insure My Trip. I never travel internationally without trip insurance. Learn why here . My preferred place to shop and compare policies is InsureMyTrip.com . 

Plus, check out the 15 travel apps I use on trips, my preferred guidebooks , and my free customizable travel itinerary template , downloadable in four file formats.

About the author:  Janice Moskoff is a travel writer and blogger who loves hiking, exploring the world, and reading. She writes to inspire travel-loving families, adult friends, and couples on her blog,  Gather and Go Travel . Check out  her bio , learn how she became  a blogger , and discover how to  work with her . Sign up for her monthly  Discovery Newsletter  to get her latest travel recommendations and  how-to’s .

Love to travel? Sign up for m y monthly Gather & Go Travel Discovery Newsletter and get a free trip budget calculator .

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I only recommend products and companies I use. And the income goes to keeping the site community-supported and ads minimal.

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Home » Best Places to Visit and Attractions

62 Best Places to Visit in Malta and Gozo

If you’re looking for the absolute best places to visit in Malta and Gozo, you’ve come to the right place.

This big list of Malta’s best tourist attractions offers you the best options for tours and excursions and things to do across the Maltese islands.

Being small, it’s easy to fit in a number of the best places to explore in Malta in a single day at an easy pace. With relatively short distances between the various sights, you get to see more than in most other travel destinations in Europe.

Here’s my personal selection of the attractions in Malta I recommend visiting!

Looking for museums specifically?

Check out this article:  The 29 Best Museums in Malta .

This little island nation has a lot to offer the curious traveller, with a rich, fascinating history and traces of various cultures and foreign rulers who left their mark on Malta and its culture. Malta is awash with various places to see within old village cores, the countryside and the Mediterranean Sea, allowing visitors to delve into the country’s past, get to know its art scene, and imagine times gone by.

Aside from places to visit, there are also a lot of things to do in Malta that are worth exploring.

This list of recommendations for the best places to visit in Malta is based on personal experience as an expat-turned-local. There are more options out there, but I feel these are the places I would recommend that are worth your time and money on your visit to Malta.

My top 5 best places to visit in Malta

• Saint John’s Co-Cathedral – The crown jewel of Valletta, with an unassuming exterior but stunning interior. Not to be missed when you visit Malta!
• The Silent City of Mdina is an ages-old town surrounded by tall bastion walls, full of historical sites and wide-open views over the entire island. It’s like stepping into an open-air museum. Must-visit!
• Comino Island and its Blue Lagoon – Comino is a tiny island with raw nature which you can easily explore on foot, and the Blue Lagoon offers deep azure blues. What’s not to like?
• The Blue Grotto near Zurrieq, a sea cave you can enter by boat that lights up in blue hues with the sun reflecting off the sandy seafloor.
• Any of these sandy beaches: Golden Bay, Għajn Tuffieħa and Mellieħa Bay (in that order). Check out my Top 10 Beaches in Malta article for more info.

Limited time? A few quick tips

If you only have one or two days to visit a few places in Malta and Gozo , my recommendations are:

• Consult one of my Malta itineraries to help you decide what to do and see. My itinerary for 3 days in Malta is specifically designed for first-time visitors planning a short trip.
• Consider getting one of the sightseeing passes offered by iSeeMalta . With their hop-on/hop-off buses and ferries, you can get to most of the best places to visit in Malta and Gozo at a low cost and with a lot of flexibility. You can opt to either go for the transport or go for one of their Combo passes with which you get access to a large number of sites and museums included in this article. Thanks to the hop-on/hop-off boat trip, you can visit both Gozo and the Blue Lagoon in only one day.
• Spend some good time in Valletta . There are lots of places to see and lots to do, and everything is within walking distance. (It takes no more than 10-15 to walk from one side of Valletta to the other). Want some insight on what to see and do there? I’ve written a guidebook to show you the best of what Valletta has to offer .
• Mdina and Rabat are also good destinations to put on your itinerary when you visit the island of Malta. You can find a mix of ancient history and village life in Malta, all within walking distance.
• Gozo Island is also an excellent destination, more so if you’re looking for a quieter holiday away from the tourist hotspots. Malta’s smaller sister island offers more natural beauty, plenty of places to visit and things to do and a charm that is hard to find anywhere else. Learn more about Gozo here .

The best places to visit in Valletta

If sightseeing is a priority for you on your Malta holidays, Valletta should definitely make it onto your itinerary. The capital is home to some of the top tourist attractions and best places to explore on the island of Malta, and the city itself is full of historical buildings which are all easy to reach on foot.

Here is my list of the best cultural attractions and points of interest in Valletta. The below is a starting point, but you can find more info on the best places to visit and things to do in Valletta here .

1. Saint John’s Co-Cathedral

Location: St. John’s Square

The St. John’s Co-Cathedral is an absolute must-visit. Not just for its amazingly beautiful interior and Baroque architecture but also for the collection of Caravaggio (Michelangelo Merisi) works on display at the museum.

The cathedral was built by the Knights of the Order of St. John, who played a hugely important part in Malta’s history, and you will hear stories of them popping up all around the island. St. John’s Co-Cathedral and Museum is dedicated to this section of Maltese history and highlights the roles and lives of the Knights who once called it their home.

2. Manoel Theatre, Museum and Courtyard

Location: Old Theatre Street

Notable for its diverse range of plays, the Manoel Theatre is also a huge hit on the island of Malta because of its exceptional design – it really is an architectural gem. With elaborately decorated domed ceilings and rows of boxed seating sporting intricate patterns, it’s truly a place to behold and admire. Don’t forget to look up towards the ceiling!

Inside the ornate architectural beauty of the Manoel Theatre and Museum, visitors can rest and relax in the Roman-inspired central courtyard that offers a peaceful, well-designed haven.

The small square is also used to display art exhibitions, providing a creative space to think and chill out.

3. Church of St. Paul’s Shipwreck

Location: Triq San Pawl (towards the middle of this long street)

The first time I visited the church of St. Paul’s Shipwreck, I wasn’t expecting to find anything out of the ordinary, but to me, it’s a bit of a hidden gem in Valletta. A gem that needs polishing, but the interiors are unique and fascinating.

It’s a dimly lit church during the day, and restoration works are being carried out, but there’s a lot of detail in the shrines, ceilings and floors to discover. Step inside and have a look for yourself!

4. Merchants Street (and side streets)

Location: Starts at Castille Place, ends in the North of Valletta at Fort St. Elmo

Merchants Street is one of Valletta’s longest streets, where you can find a bit of everything: Historical buildings, churches, cafes with their street terraces and side streets with quirky little shops. Have a look at the university campus.

5. Fort St. Elmo

Location: The tip of the peninsula of Valletta

Fort St. Elmo is one of the most significant fortifications in the Grand Harbour area. The fort’s predecessor (also referred to as Fort St. Elmo) played a key role in the defeat of the Ottoman army during the Great Siege of Malta in 1565, despite having been reduced to rubble.

While the construction of Valletta started the following year, Fort St. Elmo was rebuilt and integrated with Valletta’s fortifications.

The upper part of the fort was restored between 2009 and 2015 and has become a popular point of interest in the capital, also hosting the National War Museum within some of the barracks.

6. St. Elmo Breakwater Bridge

Location: Behind Fort St. Elmo

If you’re a little more adventurous and don’t mind heading off the beaten path, you can get to the Breakwater Bridge at the entrance to Grand Harbour, just a few minutes walk around to the back of Fort St. Elmo.

Access to the far end of the breakwater is usually closed, and the bridge itself isn’t the main draw. The view you get out over the harbour and the location itself is special and worth checking out.

7. Siege Bell War Memorial

Location: Quarry Wharf, near Triq il-Mediterran

Not far away from Fort St. Elmo, the Siege Bell War Memorial sits on the edge of the Valletta bastions, overlooking Grand Harbour and its breakwater. The bell itself was built to commemorate the award of the George Cross to Malta and to honour over 7,000 Service Personnel and Civilians who gave their lives during World War 2.

8. Castille Place

Location: South-east of Valletta, shown as a roundabout between Pope Pius V Street and Triq San Pawl

Castille Place is the square located in the Southeastern corner of Valletta, which is one of the few access points for vehicular traffic into the capital. Apart from providing a lovely scene itself, you can find a few interesting buildings at this location.

• Auberge de Castille is the present-day Office of the Prime Minister of Malta and was built in the 1740s to replace a building erected by the Knights in the 1570s that served as an auberge for the langue of Castile, León and Portugal. Each of the langues (or divisions) of the Order of St. John had an auberge to serve as their headquarters.
• The Central Bank of Malta (in the direction of City Gate)
• James Cavalier – One of the major fortifications designed to thwart land-based attacks on the city. More info up next.

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9. St. James Cavalier Art Gallery ( Spazju Kreattiv )

Location: Castille Place

Website: www.kreattivita.org/en/

Back at the turn of the 21st Century, St. James Cavalier was converted into a Centre for Creativity, and old, cobbled passageways and large, high-ceiling rooms were renovated into spaces for contemporary art exhibitions and cultural events.

Aside from its unique interiors, events and performances are regularly held here.

10. Upper Barrakka Gardens

Location: In the southern-east corner of Valletta

The Upper Barrakka Gardens is one of the most popular spots in the capital city, from where you can get splendid views out over Grand Harbour. It’s also a great place for a quick drink and a snack at the local kiosk overlooking the gardens.

This location is also an entry point from the harbourside (and its cruise port near the Valletta Waterfront) down below through the Upper Barrakka Lift, which ascends the height of the bastion wall of over 58 metres.

11. Saluting Battery

Location: Upper Barrakka Gardens

With a great vantage point over Grand Harbour, the Saluting Battery was built by the Knights in the 16th century and used by the British as an artillery battery until the 20th century. Recently restored, you can get a tour around the location and one of the guns located there is fired twice a day, at noon and 4 p.m.

You can access the Saluting Battery by descending a few steps in the middle of the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

12. Lower Barrakka Gardens

Location: Triq Lvant (found as ‘Lvant’ on Google Maps)

Less popular and smaller than its Upper cousin, the Lower Barrakka Gardens is a peaceful little haven to have a quick break and enjoy the views (and shade!) with a drink and a snack from the kiosk present near its entrance.

13. Casa Rocca Piccola

Location: 74, Republic Street

Casa Rocca Piccola is an immaculately maintained historical palazzo and home to the de Piro family. It gives you a rare view of how the aristocracy of Malta lived during the time of the Knights of Malta.

The rooms that are accessible to the public are set up beautifully to offer a glimpse of what it must have been like to live there, and with a guided tour, you’re also offered access to the WWII shelters underground through the palace’s courtyard.

14. La Sacra Infermeria and The Malta Experience

Location: Mediterranean Conference Centre, Triq il-Mediterran

Formerly a state-of-the-art hospital built by the Knights of Malta in the late 16th century, La Sacra Infermeria (nowadays Mediterranean Conference Centre) is one of the most impressive buildings in Valletta. There are two ways to get to see La Sacra Infermeria from inside:

• By visiting the Augmented Reality (AR) Museum Reliving the Sacra Infermeria . This self-guided tour works with the use of an app installed on your mobile device, with which you can overlay re-enacted scenes at different locations in and around the building. It’s a really fun and educational way of getting to understand this important part of the history of the Knights (and the impact they had on Malta).
• You can also visit as part of a visit to The Malta Experience (audiovisual show); you get a short guided tour of the building and its history with a highly knowledgeable guide. Although the tour will be the highlight for most, the show is also worthwhile watching for a good primer on a high-level overview of Malta’s history.

15. Valletta Waterfront

Location: Just outside of Valletta, towards the South (10-min walk)

The Valletta Waterfront (really and truly situated as part of the neighbouring village of Floriana) is a small area on the harbourside with a row of buildings once used for storage and customs. Restored in recent years, with colourful doors and apertures, the stores now house several restaurants and entertainment establishments.

With shaded terraces out front, it’s a lovely place for a bite to eat and a drink with a view over Grand Harbour. After you take the Upper Barrakka lift down to the harbour, it’s a 10-minute walk with interesting sights to take in along the way.

16. The Palace State Rooms

Location: Grand Master’s Palace, Palace Square

Housed within the Presidential Palace in the centre of Valletta, the beautiful interiors of the Palace State Rooms are a sight to behold.

Having been the residence of successive Grand Masters and Governors during British rule and nowadays the President’s Palace, the building is a magnificent piece of heritage with art adorning almost every wall.

17. National Library of Malta

Location: Old Treasury Street

Website: https://maltalibraries.gov.mt/

Between the President’s Palace and St. John’s Co-Cathedral, you’ll find the National Library of Malta and its square featuring a statue of Queen Victoria. The main reading hall is usually open during the day (full days in winter on weekdays, mornings only during the summer months), and it’s worth looking inside to admire its interiors.

This library isn’t your typical public library. Instead, it houses manuscripts, printed books, periodicals and journals issued in Malta and is the main source of Melitensia (which refers to the written collections of the history and culture of the island of Malta).

Best places to visit in Birgu (Vittoriosa)

Although it’s a relatively small village across the Grand Harbour from Valletta, there’s a lot of historical value in Birgu (Vittoriosa) . The place once formed the headquarters of the Knights of St. John (in the 16th Century) before Valletta was built.

18. Inquisitor’s Palace

Location: Main Gate Street

In the 16th Century, the Grand Inquisitor’s Palace was built to accommodate the civil law courts.

Today, the building is used as a portal to the past, displaying incredible works of art in gold, gilded frames, and a selection of furniture and artefacts reminiscent of the time shortly after the Knights turned up on the island of Malta.

19. Malta at War Museum

Location: Couvre Porte Gate

In preserved, underground bomb shelters and through a vast selection of memorabilia, visitors to the Malta at War Museum can learn more about the island’s role in World War II and the great suffering that racked the island – a moving and fascinating experience.

20. Malta Maritime Museum

Location: Ex-Naval Bakery

Malta has a rich maritime history at the heart of the Mediterranean Sea. At this museum, you can get a thorough understanding of 7,000 years of maritime history and the many civilisations that sailed the Mediterranean Sea. With several interesting artefacts and an inviting setup, it’s a great museum to explore.

21. Fort St. Angelo

Location: Birgu waterfront

Having undergone major restoration in recent years and getting a new museum set up within its thick walls, Fort St. Angelo is a magnificent part of the fortifications around Grand Harbour. The exact time during which the first stone was laid is unknown, although most dates point back to the 13th century.

When the Knights of Malta arrived in 1530, this fort became the seat of the Grand Master and withstood an invasion by sea from the Ottoman Empire in 1565.

An impressive complex worth visiting and exploring!

Best places to visit in Mdina and Rabat

The quiet towns of Mdina and Rabat can be found in the Western part of the island of Malta and offer a lot in terms of historical sites and cultural attractions. With some of the most interesting points of interest around the Maltese islands, this is a must-visit place.

22. The Old City of Mdina itself

Sitting on top of a hill near Rabat, the fortified medieval city of Mdina is one big museum and one of my favourite points of interest on the island of Malta. Beautifully maintained, it was once Malta’s capital city until the arrival of the Knights of Malta in 1530 and has maintained its medieval character through the centuries.

It is literally like stepping into a scene of days gone by, strolling through its narrow, winding alleys with different types of architecture and living up to its name, “the silent city”. This must-see has been placed on the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

23. National Museum of Natural History

Location: St. Publius Square, Mdina

Located right behind Mdina’s main gate lies the National Museum of Natural History. Although the museum and its contents aren’t the best on the island, it is worth visiting for the building itself. Indeed, the museum is housed in the Vilhena Palace, built in 1724 by Grand Master Antonio Manoel de Vilhena in the Parisian Baroque style.

The collection ranges from beautiful butterfly collections to weird and wonderful examples of taxidermy. The interior of the National Museum needs a bit of TLC and dusting, however, so don’t expect a polished museum.

24. Chapel of St. Roque

Location: Triq Il-Villegaignon, Mdina

Tucked away in one of the main streets in Mdina, the Chapel of St. Roque looks unassuming from the outside but offers beautiful interiors, particularly the altar. It’s a little-known chapel that doesn’t look particularly inviting from the outside but is definitely worth a quick visit!

25. Bastion Square

Location: Triq is-Sur, Mdina

With Mdina being located on top of a hill, there’s a very rewarding view out over the North of Malta from Bastion Square, which you can find towards the northern side of Mdina. Avoid sitting on the bastion walls – it can be dangerous!

Like the view and up for a coffee and a snack? Head over to Fontanella Tea Garden, a cafe located around the corner from this square with an outside terrace offering a similar view and some of the best sweets in the area.

26. Mdina Ditch Gardens

Location: Entrance from the ditch near the southern side gate (parking area) or next to the il-Veduta restaurant at street level, to the East of the main gate of Mdina.

As part of a recent extensive restoration project of Mdina, the bastion city’s large ditch also got a major facelift. Although the garden itself makes for a nice walk or place to chill in the shade, if you walk around the corner to the East, there are some nice views to take in as well. It’s not a well-known spot, so expect peace and quiet!

27. St. Paul’s Cathedral and square

Location: Pjazza San Pawl, Mdina

St. Paul’s Cathedral is the most dominant feature of Mdina’s skyline and looks just as impressive as the square in front. It’s more or less the city’s central point and contains several intricate frescoes and paintings that make for a very rich interior. Further artworks and artefacts are on display in the small museum next door, housed in the Seminary.

28. St. Paul’s Catacombs

Location: Ħal-Bajjada, Rabat

If you are into archaeology, make a stop at St. Paul’s Catacombs during your visit to Mdina and Rabat. This complex of interconnected underground Roman cemeteries stands as the earliest and most important archaeological evidence of Christianity.

St. Paul’s Catacombs were in use up to the 7th (or even the 8th) century AD and are located in an area with more than 30 hypogea. Its connection to the saint originates from the legend suggesting that this group of catacombs was formerly linked to St. Paul’s Grotto.

You can also visit the smaller and lesser-known catacombs of St. Agatha and St. Cataldus, the first having interesting frescoes.

29. Buskett Gardens

Location: Outskirts of Rabat

Buskett is probably the closest thing to a forest on the island of Malta in an otherwise fairly barren landscape due to the climate. The gardens were once an area of recreation and hunting grounds to the Knights, and apart from their natural beauty, Buskett features a few old structures, orchards and pathways. It’s a peaceful location often enjoyed by locals for picnics and Sunday walks, ideal for some off-the-beaten-track Malta sightseeing.

Other best places to visit in Malta

One of the major reasons people visit Malta is the fact that there are so many places to see (and so many things to do ) within close proximity of each other.

The following part of this list of best places to explore in Malta and Gozo, although spread out across the islands, are easy to reach and worth visiting.

30. The Three Cities

The Three Cities refers to the three major localities opposite Valletta, across Grand Harbour: Senglea (aka Isla), Birgu (aka Vittoriosa) and Bormla (aka Cospicua). Although Birgu has the most to offer regarding points of interest, it’s worth walking around all three villages when visiting Malta. They’ve got a particular, quaint character with great harbour views (particularly from near the Gardjola watchtower at the tip of Senglea) and interesting photo opportunities if you like taking pictures.

31. Palazzo Parisio

Location: Victory Square, Naxxar

One of the hidden gems on the island of Malta is the Palazzo Parisio, located in Naxxar. The Portuguese Grand Master Manoel de Vilhena built this extraordinary piece of architecture back in 1733, during the era of St. John’s Knights. Since then, it has been renovated and embellished and is now a beautifully ornate stately home, complete with unique interiors and a fascinating history to go with it.

Outside, you will find beautifully manicured gardens designed following the Italianate tradition.

Their cafe is also a nice place to sit down for a cup of coffee or tea and a snack.

When going out of the Palazzo, take some time to admire Naxxar Parish Church, dedicated to the Nativity of Mary, and go inside if it’s open. The Parish Church’s rich baroque interior is well worth a visit.

32. Popeye Village (Anchor Bay)

Location: Anchor Bay

Set on the original set of Popeye (a 1980 movie starring Robin Williams), Popeye Village is a small theme park that is a staple attraction for most travel guides. Although, if you have kids, Popeye Village is a nice place to visit (despite the cartoon character being a little dated, perhaps), the location at Anchor Bay is amazing.

Curious to see what Popeye Village is like without going inside? Just stand on the cliff opposite the village and take some memorable pictures! The most common Popeye Village photos are actually taken from that viewpoint and many tourists come to this bay for that very reason when they visit Malta.

It’s a quiet part of Malta with a few beautiful unspoilt areas, and this particular rocky bay is great for snorkelling. There’s no beach, but there’s an easy entry point from the opposite of Popeye Village. You can get onto large cement blocks where the ferry to Gozo used to berth. Keep an eye on the wind direction if you decide to go snorkelling here, though the sea can get pretty rough!

33. Xemxija Heritage Trail

Location: Corner of Triq Raddet ir-Roti, Xemxija

If you’re into exploring some of Malta’s nature “off the beaten path”, this is a good option for a walking route where remains can be found of a Roman-era road and buildings, as well as bronze-age caves used as beehives.

It’s a steep uphill walk, but you’re rewarded with a great view over Xemxija and St. Paul’s Bay. When you get to the top and further behind the trail, there are some nice paths to follow through the countryside.

34. The Mosta Dome (Rotunda)

Location: Church Square, Mosta

The Mosta Dome (aka Mosta Rotunda) has what’s believed to be the third-largest unsupported dome roof in the world. Apart from its impressive architecture and interiors, its history could have unfolded very differently had the 200kg bomb that the German Luftwaffe dropped in 1942 (during World War 2) detonated. Instead, it pierced the roof and fell amid a congregation of some 300 people but failed to explode. Miraculously, no one was injured.

The Mosta Dome is also where one of my favourite festi (plural of festa ) is organised on the 15th of August each year. Festi are religious festivals held in every village throughout the summer.

35. Malta Aviation Museum

Location: Ta’ Qali

The Aviation Museum is a must-visit for flying fanatics. Set in a former Royal Air Force Station, the museum features a variety of aviation vehicles and accompanying relevant objects that are of great historical importance to Malta.

36. Ta` Qali Crafts Village

If you’re looking for a few nice souvenirs, you’ll find some traditional hand-made Maltese crafts at the Ta` Qali crafts village, formerly homed in old army barracks constructed by the British. The village has undergone renovation and is now made up of larger traditional Maltese buildings.

Pottery, glass, jewellery, lace – there’s something for everyone, and it’s genuine, unlike some of the plastic rubbish you’ll come across in tourist areas.

37. Malta National Aquarium

Location: Ta’ Fra Ben Point, Qawra

With more than 50 display tanks, the Malta National Aquarium at Ta` Fra Ben, Qawra , is home to several species of fish and other sea life, most commonly found in Maltese waters, as well as other creatures like reptiles, insects and amphibians. A fun family outing that is easy to reach.

38. The Marsaxlokk Sunday fish market

Location: Marsaxlokk

Marsaxlokk is known as one of the few remaining examples of a traditional fishing village in Malta, and apart from boasting some of the best fish restaurants on the island, it also hosts a fish market on Sundays.

There is also a smaller market from Monday to Saturday, where you won’t find fish but souvenirs, clothes, ornaments, some food… (don’t expect to find very special items though).

It’s a nice place to visit along the South coast of Malta island, with a small harbour full of colourful fishing boats, also called luzzu (pron. ‘lutsu’). You can easily combine a visit here with a boat ride at the Blue Grotto (further below).

Feeling a bit adventurous? Explore the Delimara Peninsula on foot, located to the west of Marsaxlokk. There you will find St Peter’s Pool, a natural swimming pool, and other secluded bays ideal for swimming and snorkelling. St Peter’s Pool doesn’t have sand but there is some space on the rocks to spread your beach towel.

39. The Blue Grotto

Location: Wied iż-Żurrieq

Another beautiful location to visit at sea is the Blue Grotto , located near the village of Zurrieq in the South of Malta. You can take a boat trip into those beautiful sea caves along the coastline during the summer months to admire the bright hues of blue caused by sunlight reflecting off the sandy seafloor underneath.

I advise you to come to the Blue Grotto in the morning, as it is when the colours are at their best.

Also a popular diving location, it is accessible through locally organised boat tours that take you in and around the Blue Grotto and nearby caves to give you a good view of the beautiful coastline in this part of the island.

40. Fort Rinella and the Armstrong 100-ton Gun

41. the blue lagoon.

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42. Golden Bay and the other sandy beaches

Location: Mellieħa and its outskirts, North of Malta Island

If you wish to spend some time at the beach during your holiday in Malta, there are some nice sandy beaches located in the north of the island. Here are my three favourites, all recognised for having clean bathing water and that are Blue Flag certified .

Located on the west coast, Golden Bay is the most popular one among tourists and locals alike. As the name of Golden Bay Beach suggests, it boasts inviting golden-coloured sands and it is easy to access either by public transport or by car. Golden Bay Beach has all the amenities: water sports, ice cream shops, restaurants, parking and even a five-star hotel.

Next to Golden Bay Beach is Għajn Tuffieħa (also known as Riviera Bay), my absolute favourite beach in Malta. This beach is the perfect balance between relatively untouched nature and facilities one can expect to find at a beach. It might be a bit less accessible than Golden Bay Beach due to the numerous steps that lead to it, but the views are definitely rewarding. If you prefer hiking, there is a hiking trail running at the back of the beach.

The third sandy beach I want to mention is Mellieħa Bay (or Għadira Bay), the largest sandy beach in Malta. This beach is easy to access, family-friendly and has all the amenities.

43. Dingli Cliffs

Location: Outskirts of Dingli

If you like nature and walks, Dingli Cliffs are a place you may consider visiting in Malta. Those 200-meter cliffs plunge dramatically into the Mediterranean Sea and are the highest point of Malta.

The area offers good opportunities for hiking while enjoying panoramic views over the sea and Filfla (an uninhabited and protected islet). You can even hike from Buskett Gardens ( see higher up ) to Dingli Cliffs: the walk takes between 30 and 40 minutes.

Dingli Cliffs are also popular among locals and tourists alike for sunsets. What better way to end a day of exploring?

Good to know: Although it’s a nice place to enjoy nature, it isn’t easy to reach by public transport. If you’re driving a rental car, it’s easy to reach, but otherwise, other places of interest may be more worthy of your limited time in Malta.

Places worth visiting on Gozo Island

Gozo is Malta’s much smaller and quieter sister island and offers various points of interest and places to visit that are worth exploring, even if only as part of a day trip.

44. Basilica of the Blessed Virgin of Ta’ Pinu

Location: Outskirts of Għarb

The Basilica of the Blessed Virgin of Ta’ Pinu is one of Gozo’s most easily recognised landmarks.

Although the church and its surroundings are more than enough reasons for a visit, the sanctuary inside is the biggest draw for most.

There, you’ll find items on display that testify to the gratitude towards Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu. Items like helmets, letters, crutches and clothes tell the stories of local devotees of prayers heard and fulfilled.

The parvis is adorned with colourful mosaics featuring representations of the 20 mysteries of the rosary.

45. The Victoria Citadel (Cittadella)

Location: Victoria (in the centre of Gozo island)

Similar to Mdina, Gozo’s capital city of Victoria has its own citadel, perched on top of a hill more or less at the centre of the island, overlooking most parts of the surrounding areas and is freely accessible.

Also placed on Malta’s tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites , it was known as Gran Castello in Medieval times and protected its citizens, as well as those of the extension of the city that started forming outside its walls in the 16th century, from corsairs and other invaders. Beautifully restored in recent years, it’s a lovely place to wander around and explore.

46. Cittadella Visitors’ Centre

Before you explore the Citadel, pay a visit to the Cittadella Visitors’ Centre, located below the Citadel’s gate. They’ve done a great job explaining the place’s history and its hugely important role in protecting the local population over the centuries.

Buying a combination ticket here gives you access to all the below museums located within the Citadel’s walls (except for the Cathedral Museum).

47. Cathedral Museum

Location: Victoria Citadel

With over 2000 items on display, the Cathedral Museum provides an expansive insight into Malta’s history, culture, and traditions. From beautiful paintings by famous local artists to fascinating archives and a silver vault, there are numerous ways for visitors to get to know Malta here.

48. Folklore Museum

Location: Bernardo de Opuo Street, Victoria Citadel

Malta has a rich and varied history, and the Folklore Museum paints a great picture of times gone by, including representations of rural and domestic living, traditional clothing, and tools that have been a huge part of Maltese life over the last few centuries.

49. Museum of Archaeology

Showcasing the historical timeline of Gozo, the Museum of Archaeology is a series of well-laid-out rooms that depict the cultural history of the islands, from prehistoric eras right up until the present day. This is the place to go for a comprehensive lesson on how Gozo got to where it is today.

50. Museum of Natural Science

Set in an old, charming house from the Aragonese period, the Museum of Natural Science displays a selection of mind-blowing exhibitions, including fossils, gemstones, and artefacts of great scientific importance.

51. Old Prison

Visitors to the Old Prison can sneak a peek into the lives of former criminals who were held in the grand, old building by the Citadel. The law courts are nearby – for obvious reasons – and visitors can see the important Cathedral Square from the windows of the prison.

52. Basilica Museum

Location: Pjazza San Gorg, Victoria

This interactive museum in the heart of rustic Gozo Island focuses on fine art and the history of the Maltese islands, with fascinating audio-visual halls spread out over every floor, including an impressive medieval wing.

Location: Xlendi (village)

The small village of Xlendi is located in the southwest part of Gozo and overlooks a small bay flanked by tall cliffs. There’s a small bay lined with a few restaurants and hotels, which are great for a relaxed lunch while enjoying the view over the bay. Scuba divers also enjoy this bay where are laying some reef formations.

54. Dwejra Inland Sea

Location: Dwejra, on the outskirts of San Lawrenz

Dwejra and its Inland Sea are a popular attraction in Gozo. This was also the site of the famous Azure Window (a naturally arch-shaped rock formation), but this popular landmark eroded into the sea in early 2017 during a spell of bad weather and rough seas. That specific part of Dwejra was one of the most iconic filming locations for the first season of Game of Thrones.

Nevertheless, it’s still a great location for scuba diving and snorkelling, as well as ramblers exploring the beautiful underwater life and its rugged landscape. The Blue Hole, located right in front of the place where the Azure Window was once standing, is one of the most popular diving sites on the island.

The Inland Sea itself is a small bay surrounded by tall cliffs where you can go for a swim but it is more enjoyable for snorkelling, also because the bottom is pretty rocky and the beach is covered in pebbles rather than sand.

55. Ramla Bay

Location: Outskirts of Xagħra

Ramla Bay (also called Ramla l-Ħamra ) is the largest sandy beach in Gozo and is mostly unspoilt by man. This lovely beach has reddish sand, as its Maltese name (Ramla l-Ħamra) suggests, contrasting with the turquoise hues of the sea.

Ramla Bay is Blue Flag certified, has a lifeguard on duty during the summer months and has several facilities, making it a family-friendly beach.

The beach is framed by two natural caves offering stunning panoramic views over the bay: Calypso Cave and Tal-Mixta Cave.

Malta’s Megalithic Temples

Some of the prehistoric Maltese temples found scattered around the Maltese islands are older than the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt and Stonehenge in the UK, the oldest having been built around 3600 BC. They’re among the oldest free-standing structures in the world, and paying a visit is well worth the excursion if history and archaeology are among your interests. None of the temples is located close to the more popular tourist areas, although public transport services most quite well.

If I had to choose one location to recommend going to view some of the temple structures, it would be the ones located near Qrendi (a quiet village in the South of Malta). The Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra temples are located nearby, and the visitors’ centre makes for an interesting visit with good info on the temples, who built them, what they were used for, etc.

If you’re into history and archaeology, the Megalithic Temples of Malta can give you a fascinating look at early records of civilisation in the Maltese islands. Together listed as UNESCO World Heritage site, the various temples are some of the world’s oldest free-standing, man-built structures.

56. Tarxien Temples

Location: Neolithic Temples Street, Tarxien

The Tarxien Temples are a complex featuring four magnificent megalithic structures designed and erected between 3600 and 2500 BC. The site provides visitors with a fascinating and humbling look into the prehistoric life of Malta.

57. Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum

Location: Triq Ic Cimiterju, Paola (Raħal Ġdid)

The Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum is an ancient burial site that was discovered during an excavation in 1902 and, today offers visitors the chance to explore a complex of interconnecting tunnels and burial chambers. Remains from the early temple period have been found from around 4000 BC, hinting at the first human life in Malta.

58. Ħaġar Qim Temples

Location: Triq Ħaġar Qim, Qrendi

The archaeological site of prehistoric Ħaġar Qim Temples stands proudly on a hilltop with spectacular views out to the Mediterranean Sea. Here, visitors can wander around a series of prehistoric settings and learn more about early human life in Malta.

59. Mnajdra Temples

Location: Triq Haġar Qim, Qrendi

Hauntingly set on the rugged Maltese coast, the Mnajdra Temples are located near the Ħaġar Qim temples. The complex consists of three structures and offers visitors the chance to see some unusual design styles from the prehistoric period. The most interesting one is the South Temple, as it was built in a way to mark the first day of each season.

60. Ta` Ħaġrat

Location: St. Peter Street, Mġarr

This exceptional structure is one of the oldest free-standing sites of its kind in the world, making it an extremely important addition to Malta’s temple collection. At Ta` Ħaġrat , visitors can enjoy the stunning views available from the complex and experience the only temple made from Upper Coralline Limestone.

61. Skorba Temples

Location: St. Anne Square, Żebbiegħ / Mġarr

Excavated in the 1960s, Skorba is a unique temple in that it features the remains of domestic prehistoric life, including the homes of the temple builders themselves.

62. Ġgantija Temples

Location: John Otto Bayer Street, Xagħra, Gozo

As one of Malta’s most well-preserved temples, visitors can get a more detailed look into prehistoric Malta at the Ġgantija Temples . Its name stems from the Maltese word for ‘giant’ because, at one point, it was linked to a race of mythical creatures, and there are remains of animal sacrifices that provide a picture of how islanders lived thousands of years ago.

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Leave a comment with your questions below and I’ll help you decide on what places to visit in Malta on your trip!

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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Thank you for this info! My wife and I have been visiting since the 1960s and there are sites here that we had not discovered.

I’m happy to hear that Peter, thank you for your comment!

Traveling to Malta Thursday for two weeks with three other women. this guide was incredibly helpful. I bookmarked it and am sure I will be using while there. Any advice on getting around without renting a car? We are hoping the public transport is as good as it seems. We will be staying in Mellieha. Should we be renting a car for specific attractions or will the buses do? Thanks.

Happy to hear that Betty, thank you. There aren’t many options for transport in Mellieha really other than buses or taxis, but you should be just fine using the bus as it’s a relatively quiet time of year. Enjoy your stay!

Edward, thanks for all your info about Malta my wife and I love this small but very beautiful island we have been coming on and of for the last 12 years and we thought we had seen all to see but your website has opened an array of different things to do and see no matter what the season is. We will be visiting again this September 2018 can’t wait.

Thank you and good luck!

I’m happy to hear that Paul, that’s exactly why I’m running the site in the first place. Have a great trip and thank you for leaving a note! 🙂

Thank you so much for such a comprehensive guide. My wife and I visited 4 years ago and love Malta so are due to visit again in September 2018. There is so much to see and experience we have booked 2 weeks and can’t wait to explore again.

Glad you like it Mark, thanks for leaving a comment!

Edward, thanks so much for all the info on Malta. My sister and I will be there towards the end of March and so look forward to seeing as many of these places as possible! We visited Malta a long time ago but didn’t see all of this. We are particularly interested in historical/ war sites. Will keep your email to refer to nearer the time! Thanks again.

You’re welcome Sonia – always happy to help!

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