Home

10%

10 Best Places to visit in the Island of Gozo, Malta.

Por Mario & Melissa Saliba

02 de February de 2024

Gozo, situated in the Maltese archipelago, captivates visitors with its irresistible appeal and is an essential stop on any trip to Malta. As the second biggest island in the Maltese archipelago, Gozo is distinguished by its charming scenery, fascinating past, distinct traditions, and a calm ambiance. Quieter and less developed than Malta, Gozo provides a peaceful and serene getaway, showcasing a rustic allure that is one-third the size of its lively neighbor.

There are compelling reasons to visit Gozo, enticing travelers to sightsee and discover its wonders. It serves as a great escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, providing a serene haven to enjoy peace and quiet. Beyond tranquility, Gozo is a haven for diving enthusiasts, boasting some of the most spectacular dive sites in the Mediterranean.

The island's landscape is adorned with historic landmarks and archaeological treasures, including the iconic Ggantija Temples, among the oldest free-standing structures globally.

Gozo Channel Ltd stands as the sole ferry provider connecting Malta and Gozo. The journey to Mgarr Harbour in Gozo spans around 25 minutes, with departures occurring every 45 minutes throughout the day from the Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal in northern Malta. Alternatively, travelers have the option to utilize the Gozo Highspeed Service departing from Valletta.

10 Best Places to visit in the Island of Gozo, Malta.

1. Explore Victoria

Victoria, also known as Rabat, is the capital city of Gozo, an island of the Maltese archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea. The city is the heart of everyday activities in Gozo, bustling with markets, shops, and locals going about their day. But the true gem of Victoria is the Citadella, a small fortified city that stands on a hill in the center of the city.

Getting to Victoria

There are several ways to get from Mgarr Ferry Terminal to Victoria in Gozo, depending on your preference and budget. Here are some of the options:

Taxi: You can take a taxi from Mgarr Ferry Terminal to Victoria, which is about 5.8 km and takes about 7 minutes.
Bus: You can take a cheaper method of transport when using a bus from Mgarr Ferry Terminal to Victoria, which is about 6 km and takes about 15 minutes. Malta Public Tranport Website.

Victoria is easily accessible from anywhere in Gozo. If you’re staying in one of the coastal towns, there are regular buses that can take you to Victoria. The city is compact and walkable, so once you’re there, you can explore most of it on foot.

Exploring Victoria

Start your exploration in the city center, where you’ll find Independence Square. This is a great place to get a feel for the local culture. The square is lined with cafes and restaurants, making it a perfect spot for a coffee break or lunch.

Next, head to It-Tokk square, making your way to St George Square throught the narrow roads leading to the St George Basilica, which is also known as Gozo’s Golden Basilica for its lavish interior, dedicated to the patron Saint of Gozo St George.

Behind the majestic St George Basilica, lies a hidden gem of the island: a network of narrow and winding streets that offer a glimpse into the history and culture of Victoria. These alleys, some of which date back to medieval times. Exploring these streets is a great way to experience the authentic and relaxed atmosphere of Gozo, as well as to discover some of the local traditions and crafts.

St George Baslica

St. George’s Basilica, also known as San Ġorġ in Maltese, is a historic Baroque church situated in the heart of Gozo. Surrounded by a maze of old narrow streets and alleys, the basilica stands as a testament to the island’s rich history.

The origins of the parish date back to Byzantine times, around the 4th century, during the reign of Emperor Theodosius. The original church was a converted Roman pagan temple dedicated to Saint George. Over the centuries, the church has been rebuilt numerous times due to the increasing population of the island.

The present church was planned by Vittorio Cassar and built between 1672 and 1678. Today, St. George’s Basilica is not just a place of worship, but also a symbol of Gozo’s cultural heritage. It attracts visitors from around the world, who come to admire its architectural beauty and to experience a piece of Gozo’s history.

10 Best Places to visit in the Island of Gozo, Malta.

2. The Citadella and the Cathedral of the Assumption

From the market, it’s a short walk to the Citadella. As you approach, you’ll be struck by its imposing walls, which have stood guard over the city for centuries.

The Citadella is a city within a city, filled with narrow, winding streets, medieval houses, and stunning panoramic views of the entire island. Start your visit at the Gozo Museum of Archaeology, where you can learn about the island’s rich history.

Next, visit the Old Prison, located within the walls of the Citadella. The prison was in use from the mid-16th century to the early 20th century, and you can still see the original cells and graffiti left by the prisoners.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the Cathedral of the Assumption. This beautiful baroque cathedral is a masterpiece of Maltese architecture. Its most striking feature is the trompe-l’oeil painting on the ceiling, which gives the illusion of a dome. Crafted by Sicilian artist Antonio Manuele, this extraordinary artwork was completed in 1739 with the ingenious purpose of simulating the appearance of a cupola without the necessity of actual construction.

Exploring Victoria and the Citadella is like stepping back in time. The city’s rich history is palpable in its ancient buildings and narrow streets, a sight to behold when you're planning the best things to do in Gozo. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture vulture, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, Victoria and the Citadella in Gozo have plenty to offer.

10 Best Places to visit in the Island of Gozo, Malta.

3. Visit Dwejra

Dwejra and the Azure Window

Dwejra is a small location on the West coast of the island of Gozo, known for its “inland sea” (a small bay surrounded by high cliffs) and as the site where the Azure Window, a naturally formed rock arch, once stood. The Azure Window was a major attraction until its collapse in March 2017. To reach Dwejra Bay, you can take bus route 311 from Victoria Gozo. If you’re using Google Maps for navigation, set “Azure Window” rather than “Dwejra Bay” as the destination.

Admire Sunset in Dwejra

Dwejra Bay is a popular spot for watching the sunset in Gozo. The bay is located on the west coast of the island and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The sunsets here are particularly beautiful, with the sun setting behind the Fungus Rock, which is a natural rock formation in the middle of the bay.

Dwejra Tower

The Dwejra Tower is a small watchtower in Dwejra Bay. It was completed in 1652 and is one of the Lascaris towers. The tower is open on Sundays from 10:30 to 15:00. Please note that the opening times may vary, so it’s recommended to check for the most current information.

Dwejra Marine Environmental Education Centre

The Dwejra Marine Environmental Education Centre is located a few meters from Dwejra’s inland sea. It serves as an information center where visitors can learn about Dwejra’s unique underwater landscape. The centre is open from Tuesday to Friday from 11:00 to 15:00, and on Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 to 15:00.

Game of Thrones Filming Location

The Azure Window served as the backdrop for the wedding of Daenerys Targaryen and Khal Drogo in the first episode of 'Game of Thrones’. Despite the collapse of the Azure Window, the location still holds a special place in the hearts of fans of the series.

10 Best Places to visit in the Island of Gozo, Malta.

4. Discover Ta’Pinu Basilica

The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta’ Pinu is a Roman Catholic minor basilica and national shrine located some 700 metres from the village of Għarb. The neo-Romanesque church, which rises to a height of 61 metres, was built between 1920 and 1931 on the site of an earlier 16th-century chapel.

The History

The origins of the Shrine of Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu are unknown. It was first recorded in the archives of the Curia in Gozo, when the Bishop Domenico Cubelles paid a visit to the chapel. This noted that the chapel had just been rebuilt and that it belonged to the noble family of “The Gentile”. Pinu Gauci, the procurator of the church, gave monies to have it renovated in 1611. Amadeo Perugino painted the Assumption of Our Lady altarpiece in 1619.

Devotion by Locals

The devotion to Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu emphasizes Mary’s role as mother and the protection that she offers to the faithful. The Virgin of Ta’ Pinu has been linked to a number of miraculous healings involving Maltese and foreigners who claim to have been rescued, cured, or assisted by the Virgin’s intercession.

Karmni Grima

Karmni Grima was a Maltese peasant whose mystical religious experience led to the constructions and services as an apostle of Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu. On the 22 June 1883, while passing in front of a small chapel, she heard a mysterious voice calling her. From a painting of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary located in the chapel, Karmni heard a voice saying: "Recite three Hail Marys in honour of the three days that I stayed within the tomb." Karmni Grima got sick, and could only return to the chapel after a year. The house where Karmni Grima lived still exists and it has now been turned into a museum.

Frenċ tal-Għarb

Francis Xavier Mercieca, more commonly known as Frenċ tal-Għarb, was a farmer and healer from the village of Għarb in Gozo, Malta. He was a service apostle of Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu. Frenċ spent most of his life working in the fields. When he returned home, he used to find a lot of people, coming from all walks of life, waiting for him. They would seek his counsel and were eager to listen to his advice and to elicit from him prayers for their needs.

10 Best Places to visit in the Island of Gozo, Malta.

5. Wander through Marsalforn Salt Pans

The Marsalforn Salt Pans, located on the northern coast of Gozo, just past Qbajjar Bay west of Marsalforn, are a captivating sight and a testament to an ancient trade and skill. These 350-year-old salt pans, which stretch about 3km along the coast, are more than just scenic - they're one of the best things to see in Gozo. They are part of the centuries-old Gozitan tradition of sea-salt production that has been passed down within certain families for many generations.

The Saltpans in Gozo’s northerly coast just up from Marsalforn are a transfixing landmark and of vital importance, upholding an ancient trade and skill, whilst harvesting one of Gozo’s important natural raw materials – Salt. The Cini family’s ancestors have worked the Xwejni Salt Pans since the 1860s. Josephine Xuereb is a 5th generation salt-farmer continuing the family tradition of her mother Rosa’s family. Her family are synonymous with salt. In Gozo, the process of making artisan salt through evaporation goes back to Phoenician and Roman times2.

During the British occupation of Gozo, salt-harvesting was revived when the Government offered concessions for local people to work them and share-own them - a fascinating part of Gozo's history to delve into when you rent a car and explore around Gozo. The intricate formation of shallow square pools and larger feeder pools, which Josephine compares to delicate ‘lacework’ use 3 raw natural ingredients: the sun, sea, and wind to create this essential mineral for life. Using seawater evaporation to produce sea-salt has changed little over the centuries.

As you wander through the Marsalforn Salt Pans, you will come across two beautiful beaches, Qbajjar Bay and Xwejni Bay. Xwejni Bay, located around 1.5km from Marsalforn, is separated from neighboring Qbajjar Bay by a headland with a small fort. Xwejni combines a sandy beach for sunbathing and swimming, making it a perfect spot for relaxation.

10 Best Places to visit in the Island of Gozo, Malta.

6. Relax at Ramla Bay and Other Beaches

Ramla Bay, is a unique and picturesque beach known for its distinctive orange-red sand and crystal-clear blue waters. Nestled at the bottom of a valley, the beach is surrounded by unspoilt, fertile nature, adding to its serene and tranquil ambiance. The beach is also home to a statue of the Virgin Mary, erected in 1881, which adds a touch of historical significance to the area. A few meters out into the sea, underwater rocks can be found, making it a fascinating spot for those interested in marine life. For the more adventurous, the nearby Calypso Cave, perched on the cliffs at the beach’s western corner, offers an exciting detour. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, Ramla Bay offers a unique and memorable beach experience.

Other Beaches in Gozo to visit:

Xlendi Beach, Cliff and Caves: This gently shelving bay is excellent for small children and nervous swimmers, with crystal clear water.
Marsalforn Bay: This bay is lovely with its blue sea and full of cafes and restaurants overlooking the water.
Dahlet Qorrot Beach: A beautiful beach with interesting geology. It’s worth the effort to take a walk on the cliffs.
San Blas Beach: A beautiful and secluded sandy beach where you can relax and swim.
Mgarr Ix-xini Beach: A quiet and secluded beach, perfect for a relaxing day.
Dwejra Inland Sea: Enjoy the invigorating experience of swimming in the tranquil waters of the Dwejra Inland Sea, surrounded by the captivating cliffs and the long inland sea tunnel leading to open sea.
Gorgun Beach: A beautiful secluded cove within 10 minutes walk of the ferry terminal. Perfect for swimming.

Remember, each beach has its own unique charm and characteristics. Before your trip to Malta and Gozo, it’s always a good idea to check the local conditions and facilities.

10 Best Places to visit in the Island of Gozo, Malta.

7. Go Hiking in Gozo

The island’s rugged terrain, picturesque countryside, and stunning coastline offer a variety of hiking trails that cater to all levels of hikers. Here are some of the best hikes on Gozo:

Gebel Ben Gorg Cliffs and Dwejra Bay: This hike offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and the rugged coastline of Gozo. The trail starts from Victoria, the island’s main city, and takes you through the quaint villages of Kercem and Santa Lucija. The trail then leads you to the Gebel Ben Gorg Cliffs, where you can choose between two trails, one by the cliff’s edge and one higher up. The two trails converge at the ancient Wardija Punic temple, from where you can see right along Gozo’s west coast beyond the Azure Window. The hike ends at Dwejra Bay, where you can relax and take in the stunning views.
Xlendi Bay to Sanap Cliffs: This hike takes you along the scenic coastline of Gozo, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean. The trail starts from Xlendi Bay, a picturesque fishing village, and takes you through the Sanap Cliffs, where you can see the stunning rock formations and the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean. The hike ends at the Sanap Cliffs, where you can relax and take in the stunning views.
Ta’ Cenc Cliffs: This hike takes you through the stunning countryside of Gozo, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. The trail starts from the Ta’ Cenc Cliffs, where you can see the stunning rock formations and the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean. The hike then takes you through the quaint villages of Sannat and Munxar, where you can see the traditional Maltese architecture. The hike ends at the Ta’ Cenc Cliffs, where you can relax and take in the stunning views.
Mgarr Harbor to Hondoq ir-Rummien Beach: This hike takes you through the stunning countryside of Gozo, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. The trail starts from Mgarr Harbor, the island’s main harbor, and takes you through the quaint villages of Ghajnsielem and Qala. The hike then leads you to the Hondoq ir-Rummien Beach, where you can relax and take in the stunning views.

The best time to hike in Gozo is during the spring and autumn months, from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and the countryside is lush and green. The summer months, from June to August, can be hot and humid, making hiking uncomfortable. The winter months, from December to February, can be rainy and windy, making hiking difficult. Therefore, it is best to avoid hiking during the summer and winter months.

8. Visit a Unesco World Heritage Site: Ggantija Temples

The Ġgantija Temples are a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in history and archaeology. These megalithic temples are located in Xagħra, Gozo, and are recognized by UNESCO as the oldest freestanding structures in the world. The temples date back to the Neolithic era, which makes them over 5,500 years old. That’s over 1,000 years older than the pyramids of Egypt and Stonehenge.

Part of your trip to Gozo should include the Ġgantija Temples, which are made up of two structures, built between c. 3600 and c. 3200 BC, a significant historical landmark on Gozo Island. The temples are constructed using massive limestone blocks, some of which weigh over 50 tons. The temples’ design is unique, with a clover-leaf shape and five large apses. The apses were originally covered by roofing, and the space between the walls was filled with rubble. The temples’ builders used spherical stones as ball bearings to transport the enormous stone blocks used for the temples.

The Ġgantija Temples are believed to have been used for fertility rites, and the numerous figurines and statues found on site are associated with that cult. According to local Gozitan folklore, a giantess who ate nothing but fava beans and honey bore a child from a man of the common people. With the child hanging from her shoulder, she built these temples and used them as places of worship.

Visiting the Ġgantija Temples is a unique experience that offers a glimpse into the island’s rich history and culture. The temples are open to the public, and visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the temples’ history and significance. The Ġgantija Archaeological Park complex is situated at the center of an extraordinary archaeological landscape, the Xagħra plateau in Gozo. The park consists of two structures, the Ġgantija North Temple and the Ġgantija South Temple, which are enclosed within a boundary wall. The southerly temple is the larger and older one, dating back to approximately 3600 BC. It is also better preserved.

9. Try Diving in Gozo

Gozo is a popular diving destination, known for its crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and unique dive sites. There are over 50 distinct diving sites in Gozo, each with its own charm and appeal. Here are some of the most popular ones:

The Blue Hole, Dwejra: This is considered one of the top-most diving places in Gozo. It is like an upright tube or funnel and once there, you can explore the large cave at the bottom or the chimney that is abundant with marine life.
Reqqa Reef: Located on the Northern side of the island, the promontory at Reqqa Point features fissures and crevices, teaming with creatures like groupers, octopuses, and large scorpion fish.
Inland Sea & Tunnel: The tunnel stretching from the Inland Sea to the open sea at Dwejra is another fascinating diving site. Reaching depths of up to 25 meters, this is another area prolific with marine life waiting to be explored.
Billinghurst Cave: Another interesting dive site along the Northern coast is Billinghurst Cave. This diving spot actually includes two caverns and in the second one, you can surface into a large air pocket.
Cathedral Cave: If you love underwater caves, then Cathedral Cave is another amazing spot. The cavern features a large domed vault and diving in the afternoon is ideal because this is the time when the cave is brightly lit by direct sunlight.

There are many diving centers in Gozo that offer diving courses and equipment rental. They offer a range of services, from introductory courses to advanced diving courses, and cater to both beginners and experienced divers.

10 Best Places to visit in the Island of Gozo, Malta.

10. Take a Trip to Comino

To take a day trip to Comino from Gozo, you can take a ferry from Mgarr Harbour in Gozo to Comino Island. The ferry ride takes approximately 20 minutes and runs regularly throughout the day. Once you arrive at Comino Island, you can explore the famous Blue Lagoon which is one of the most unique places to visit in Europe. The Blue Lagoon is known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque landscapes. You can also take a dip in the lagoon’s refreshing waters or sunbathe on the beach.

Another popular attraction on Comino Island is Santa Maria Beach. This secluded beach is located on the eastern side of the island and is known for its pristine waters and white sand. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and is accessible only by boat.

If you are interested in history, you can visit the Comino Tower and Comino Chapel. The tower was built in the 17th century by the Knights of Malta to protect the island from pirates and invaders. The tower is located on the highest point of the island and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The chapel is located near the tower and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It was built in the 17th century and is a popular pilgrimage site for locals and tourists alike.

Getting around Gozo.

Getting around the small island of Gozo is easy and convenient. Public transport is inexpensive and efficient, and there are plenty of taxis, car rental garages, bicycles, and boats available for hire.

You can rent a car to drive around the island at your own pace, take a self-guided quad bike tour or you can explore the island on foot. The island of Gozo presents no particular transport challenges, so you can enjoy wandering around and exploring the island at your leisure .

The Gozo Channel facilitates easy and scenic travel between Gozo and its sister island, Malta. Consider taking advantage of this waterway for a delightful journey between these two interconnected gems. To enhance your exploration further, Gozo sightseeing tours offer curated experiences, providing insights into the island's rich culture and history.

With no specific transport challenges to contend with, the island of Gozo beckons you to meander at your own pace, indulging in the freedom to discover its hidden gems. Whether you choose to drive, embark on a quad bike adventure, or partake in a leisurely stroll, Gozo invites you to explore its enchanting landscapes and embrace the charm of this sister island.

References

© 2026 Mario & Melissa Saliba

Ephemeral Summer

17 de January de 2024

Snippet from short book out soon

02 de December de 2023

CONCLUDING THE FRENCH TRILOGY

Romance at Versailles

For Travel Lovers - A Serbian Interlude

Hints & Tips on how to spend your time in Krupanj & Novi Sad in Serbia

21 de August de 2023

Loading, please hold on.