Gozo What To Do?
Top 10 Things To See and Do

Best Malta Tourist Attractions And Activities For Your Holiday To Gozo

Our top 10 things what to do in Gozo while on your holiday. Gozo is full of interesting villages and sites to visit where each has its own unique character and story.

Although Gozo is a small island, there are many things to do as holiday attractions and cultural events. It is a small charming island with dozens of places of interest attracting everyone.

If you love architecture and history, there is Rabat (Victoria) as it is also called and the Cittadella further up.

If you love swimming, the summer months will be ideal to swim at Xlendi, Marsalforn or Ramla l-Hamra with it’s reddish/golden coloured sand or at the many rocky beaches to jump from.

Take the plunge to come for your Gozo island vacation. The island is common for its quietness and tranquillity. The Gozo ferry is the link to the island from Cirkewwa Malta.

1. Cittadella Victoria Rabat

Rabat, also called Victoria, is situated at the centre of Gozo where all the village roads converge to it and is the place where all everyday activities happen. The old Citadel, also called the Cittadella or Kastell (Castle) stands above Rabat at the top of a steep hill visible from almost all the island. Do not miss the incredible 360 degree view from the top of the fortifications stretching around the picturesque views.

places close by

• The two main shopping malls of Gozo are in the main road of Rabat and situated along Republic Street. They are Arkadia Commercial Centre and The Duke Shopping Mall, Tigrija Café.
• Various cafes and restaurants around the central area are available.
• You can also visit the Gozo Museum of Archaeology, Folklore Museum, Gozo Natural Museum and the Old Prison. The fee is included for all the Cittadella sites.

Further Suggestions...

• Ideal for great memory photos.
• The public transport bus terminus is at the centre of Rabat and close to the main square. From here there are buses that take you to all over Gozo.
• All sightseeing buses pass from Rabat main central road.
• We recommend a walk through the new complete renovation of the Citadel entrance area and the fortifications.
  
• Walk around the open market at the main square and the many shops that surround it.

2. The collpased Azure Window and surrounding

The Azure Window was a stunning site to see standing some 50 metres above sea level. It stood very close to two other famous natural landmarks – the Inland Sea, and Dwejra Bay. It was and still is one of the main tourist attractions. They are reached through the San Lawrenz village located up hill.

It was Gozo’s iconic arch, a spectacular and stunning view located over the sea in Dwejra. It is now under the sea, which has become one of the top diving spots in Europe.

Since it collapsed, what can i do?

• The inland sea is the ideal and safe location where you can take your children to swim in shallow water with pebbles to stand on.
• You can take a boat ride from the inland sea passing through the natural 80 metres tunnel of the inland sea out to the open Mediterranean blue deep sea.
• A few stalls are on location for drinks and snacks. A nice restaurant is at the corner going to the inland sea.
• The Blue Hole is a hidden gem where people go and swim.
• The area has become a diving sensation, and if you love diving you can dive and see the collapsed Azure Window under the sea.

Some more suggestions...

• You can take photos for lifetime memories and share with your family and friends.
• Very popular for diving in the open Mediterranean sea, swim through natural caves, underwater corridors, drop off’s with a variety of natural sea life and various species of fish.
• Do remember to take with you good foot wear as there are rock pools filled with sea water when the sea is rough and the rock face is pointed.
• It is the ideal location to sit and relax no specific area to stop as selection is endless. Walk and stop and see the evening sunset when the crowds have left. If you have no car do check the last Public Transport bus schedule.
• If you think the hot summer sun will distract you from enjoying the area, bring with you an umbrella.

3. The iconic blue lagoon that everybody want to visit

The Blue Lagoon is one of the most beautiful beaches in Malta, situated between the island of Comino and the islet of Cominotto. A long narrow bay between the two islands, lovely cyan colour reflection with sand spread all around. On the side a small sandy beach ideal for children to play. In summer it is pretty crowded but worth the visit with family and friends.

Visited by tourist boats that anchor in the marina-like bay throughout the day (avoid the weekends), the Blue Lagoon will remain empty at night, in fact the island only has an official population of less than four people. This way, these Maltese waters are sure to remain clean and transparent for years to come.

What to do while here

• Snorkeling is very much recommended. Boat cruises do lend snorkels to the patrons to go round the boat area observing the fish.
• Relaxation on the beach is ideal although in peak summer it is very crowded. Better try visiting during the week.
• Santa Maria sandy beach is a bigger one where it is not crowded even during summer. You can rent umbrellas and deckchairs. Most of the boat trips take you to this beach directly.
• There are a few places you can walk to while on the island. The Santa Maria Tower, the barracks, the knights fortification and the Comino Hotel. If it is during summer, take plenty of water.

Our Suggestions...

• If you have children, they can play safely in the warm shallow lagoon while the family enjoys the sun.
  
• If you are a photo lover, we recommend walking around the island as every spot offers a different expression of this beautiful location.
• Boat trips from Cirkewwa beside the Gozo Ferry area or from Mgarr ferry terminal Gozo.

4. Ggantija Temples

The island of Gozo is enriched by the Ggantija temples as they are the oldest standing stones in the world. They were built between 4,100 and 2,500 BC. 

They are made out of coraline limestone megalithic and weigh 50 tons each. Ggantija temples are surrounded by apses or better known as circular surroundings. The real truth behind worshiping in this temples are unknown, but when these temples were excavated, bones and niches in the wall were found, so sacrificing of animals were included in their religious rituals. It is the prime Gozo heritage site.

suggestions about ggantija temples

• Public transport buses pass very close to the temples as they are very close to Nadur village.
• There is a recently modern visitor’s centre with an interpretation centre.
• It is suggested to be part of a tour in order to get a full explanation of the richness of the site.
• Toilet facilities are available at the visitor’s centre.

5. The Village of Marsalforn

Marsalforn one of Gozo’s three main fishing village lying between Xaghra and Zebbug. Still today there are fishing boats moored on the side of the bay as evidence of this.

Today it has transformed into a tourist attraction with numerous restaurants along the promenade and surroundings. There are ample areas for swimming, a sandy pebbly beach in the middle of the bay and rocky area to the left of the bay to Santa Marija point which is a very popular swimming and snorkelling areas.

In summer many Maltese populate this village especially for holidays with the many tourist arrivals that occupy the hotels and self-catering apartments.

In winter the bay is pleasantly quiet and only the residents remain as the number of tourists and Maltese decrease but still remains a primary site for walks and restaurants. Gozitans enjoy strolling back and forth along the marina.

what do you find in the village

• Plenty of restaurants along the promenade.
• Other bays close by but less popular but good for swimming are Qbajjar and Xwejni.
• A few small grocery shops are available for your daily requirements including some souvenir shops.
• Arriving from the main Rabat road called il-Merzuq. Try to walk up to see a complete view of Marsalforn.  A volcano-like hill a few metres away hosting a massive 12 metre statue of Christ.
• Various activities are available; 2 wheel rentals, diving schools and booking of boat trips.
• Do not miss the Gozitan ice cream from the mobile kiosk Granola.

6. The Small Village of Xlendi

Xlendi attracts many visitors both locals Maltese and tourists. It is a lovely location where you can swim, take a leisure boat, snorkel, sunbathe and diving. Plenty of restaurants along the beach. The location is very quiet and relaxing. Plenty of parking for those who have a rented car. 

Further Suggestions...

• Eating at one of the many restaurants along the sea shore. It is recommended to book before hand in peak season and especially the weekends.
• Taste the Gozo ice cream from the Granola shop just very close to the sea.
  
• Renting of water sports from the beach area.
  
• Walk up the staircase on the right side of the beach for a fantastic view of the bay and surrounding locations.
  

7. Explore Gozo Beaches

Gozo is full of beaches to swim at. It is the most popular beach on the island with its shallow sea golden red sand that attracts so many people. Ideal for those who wish to relax in a quiet and colourful environment. Children can play safely. During winter time it is pleasant to have a long walk along the beach where it will be covered all with greenery. 

Further Suggestions...

• A wonderful view of the bay can be observed from the panoramic balcony at the top of the hill arriving by car.
• During the winter period it is more ideal to walk around the bay and explore the rocky faces on both sides of the bay. Various cultural attractions are evident in the bay which can make your walk more interesting.
• You can rent umbrellas and deckchairs and have a meal at the local restaurants.
  

8. Visit The Rotunda Church

Do not miss a visit to the oldest village, Xewkija. It is well known for its majestic Rotunda church. The dome dominates the village and the church is the largest in Gozo. It is situated between Ghajnsielem and the capital town Victoria. A Roman Catholic church dedicated to St. John The Baptist.

Built by Maltese masons and craftsmen in Maltese stone. The Internal dome diameter is 27 metres, the dome is 75 metres high, its calculated weight is 45000 tonnes. The dome is the worlds third highest unsupported dome.

Further Suggestions...

• A lift takes you to the roof top with formidable views of all Gozo and many parts of Malta and observe the beauty of this church. It is 360 degree panoramic view of the island and beyond.
• The village core is very quiet and worth having a walk around.
  

9. The Popular Ta' Pinu National Shrine

If you like seeing a Roman Catholic basilica church we suggest paying a visit to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta’ Pinu in Gharb.

The style is of the Romanesque Revival architecture. It is a centre of pilgrimages an important landmark for Gozitans and Maltese. Surrounded by greenery it is a picturesque view, especially seeing it from afar and gives you an incredible view of its beauty. It is one of the most visited places of worship in Gozo.

Further Suggestions...

• To arrive at the basilica, it is located at 700 metres from the small village of Gharb and four kilometres from Victoria.
• Visitors are requested to wear trousers for men and women should cover their shoulders.
  
• Opening time: Monday to Saturday 6:30 to 12:15 and 3:30 to 19:00.

10. Sightseeing Tours

You will see the most important villages and sites. There are two different tours by City Sightseeing Gozo, the red Bus and Gozo Sightseeing the green bus. Explore the island on the hop on hop off, get the best views from the first floor of the bus. This is one way of getting around Gozo.

Further Suggestions...

• You can stop at any location and attractions and hop on again ticket valid for one day and explore the locations at your leisure.
• Arriving at Mgarr harbour you can get the sightseeing trip from beside the boat beside the ferry terminal or from any of the stops along the route.
• Buses run every 45 minutes from 9:40 to 15:00.

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By Albert and Benjamin Magro