Gozo is Malta’s sister island, located just north of the main island of Malta. Small in size yet packed with culture, history and natural beauty, Gozo has so much to offer visitors. From world-heritage temples to secluded beaches, here are the 12 best things to do in Gozo, Malta’s hidden gem.
Visit the Local Churches and Shrines
As a deeply religious island, Gozo has countless beautiful churches and chapels to discover. Topping the list is the Cathedral in Cittadella with its Baroque architecture.
The impressive Xewkija Rotunda has the third-largest unsupported church dome in the world. No religious site visit is complete without seeing the emotive ex-votos at Ta’ Pinu, Gozo’s national shrine. Other highlights include the sparkling onyx-covered Żebbuġ church and the stately St. George’s Basilica in Victoria.
Eat and Drink Like a Local
Gozitan dining offers flavours as rich as the island’s history. Schedule a tour and tasting at Tal-Massar winery to try five local wines paired with traditional breads, cheeses, oils and sundried tomatoes. For the iconic Gozitan pizza experience, join the locals at Maxokk Bakery or Ta’ Mekren in Nadur village.
Sample estate-grown agricultural products and wines at Ta’ Mena farm in Xagħra.
Quench your thirst Gozo-style with craft beers at the Lord Chambray taproom in Victoria. With farm-to-table dining experiences and waterfront restaurants around every corner, eating your way through Gozo is a must.
Visit the Xwejni Salt Pans
Gozo’s tradition of sea salt production remains alive at Xwejni Bay’s salt pans. The pans are impressive squared-out sections of rock along the coastline that collect seawater in the winter months.
Evaporation leaves behind sea salt for harvesting between May and September. Photographers flock here for iconic sunset shots illuminating the salt pans.
Visit the Beaches
It’s easy to find off-the-beaten-path beaches and coves on Gozo. Top beach picks include the red sands of Ramla Bay, Gozo’s largest beach. Quiet San Blas Bay offers shallow waters and sand perfect for families.
Photogenic Daħlet Qorrot charms visitors with its stone beach backed by stunning cliffs.
Visit the Ggantija Megalithic Temples
Built 1,000 years before the Pyramids of Giza, the monumental Ġgantija temples are Gozo’s top historical attraction. Constructed from enormous stone slabs by an ancient civilization, this UNESCO World Heritage Site gives visitors a glimpse into Gozo’s mysterious prehistoric past.
Visitors can explore the two temples, known as the South Temple and the North Temple, which feature various altars, niches and elaborate carvings. Archaeologists believe the temples were possibly used for fertility rituals and worship of a mother goddess.
Explore the Caves
Above and below sea level, Gozo has many fascinating caves to suit every explorer. Take to the waters off Xagħra to find well-known scuba diving caves like Shrimp’s Cave.
Ninu’s Cave and Xerri’s Grotto offer walking tours through long underground tunnels covered in magical rock formations. Nature lovers shouldn’t miss sea-facing Tal-Mixta Cave, situated perfectly for viewing Gozo’s best sunset.
Take a Trip to the Blue Lagoon and Comino
Gozo’s smallest neighbour island of Comino is home to one of Malta’s top attractions, the mind-blowingly beautiful Blue Lagoon. Visitors flock here to take in the shallow, brilliant blue waters at this ultimate swimming and snorkelling spot.
With regular ferry transport from Gozo, Comino makes an easy and rewarding day trip escape.
Visit Dwejra Bay
For natural beauty, Dwejra Bay is a highlight of western Gozo. Admire inland seas, unique rock formations like Fungus Rock, and sea-formed features like the famed Azure Window arch (now collapsed).
Photography opportunities abound from this dramatic seaside landscape in San Lawrenz.
Wander Around Marsalforn
The pretty seaside town of Marsalforn on Gozo’s north coast charms visitors with its picturesque bay filled with colourful fishing boats, excellent restaurants and lively promenade lined with bars and gelaterias.
Spend an afternoon here beachside or pavement hopping before dinner overlooking the water.
Explore Victoria’s Citadel and Old Town
No Gozo experience is complete without getting lost wandering the car-free cobblestone alleys of Victoria’s fortified Citadel. Dating back to medieval times, today the Citadel offers museums, cafes, shops and epic panoramas atop the historic bastion walls.
Just outside the Citadel gates, Independence Square provides lively snapshots of daily life. Nearby St. George’s Square is perfectly positioned for exploring Victoria’s charming side streets peppered with restaurants, bars and boutiques.
Go Diving and Snorkelling
With incredible underwater scenery, Gozo is considered one of the top diving destinations in the Mediterranean. Experienced divers can explore colourful coral reefs, tunnels, caves and wrecks.
Many dive sites also appeal to beginner or snorkelling abilities. Popular spots include Mgarr Ix-Xini, Xlendi Bay and the Blue Hole near Dwejra.
Cycle the Countryside Trails
Gozo’s quiet roads and unspoilt inland countryside create ideal conditions for leisurely bike rides. Several designated cycling routes connect key sites while avoiding main vehicle roads.
Rent a mountain bike to follow coastal paths to secluded beaches or use the electric bike network to cruise through farmland and vineyards under your own power.
Once you have your itinerary sorted, it’s time to figure out essentials like flights and accommodation.
Where to Stay
When visiting Gozo, visitors can choose from a range of accommodation options for a comfortable stay. Luxurious hotels like the Duke Boutique Hotel in Victoria Gozo offer amenities like infinity pools, fine dining, spas, and easy access to beaches and nature trails.
For more affordable rates, travellers can consider nicely furnished farmhouse bed and breakfasts or rental apartments in Gozitan villages like Xlendi and Marsalforn. These provide home comforts and an authentic taste of local life.
Gozo also has a wide selection of 3 and 4-star hotels with lovely sea views and proximity to attractions. Budget options like hostels and guesthouses allow backpackers and students to experience Gozo’s beauty.
From luxury stays to delectable food and wine experiences to world-class natural landscapes, tiny Gozo serves up sights and activities to rival even Malta’s main island. With this ultimate list of top things to see and do, visitors can make the most of their Gozo getaway.
