Things To Do In Gozo – Snorkelling Spots, Beaches & Main Attractions

Gozo is a great little island to escape to, away from the hustle and bustle of mainland Malta. Gozo has beautiful secluded beaches, stunning landscapes and views, its fair share of Maltese history, landmarks, fortifications and architecture; and an excellent selection of places to eat and chill out. If you’re staying in Valletta for more than a couple of nights, then it would be an absolute shame not to spend a little time visiting the very nearby and much-loved Gozo Island. Island hopping is a fun part of visiting Malta and should definitely be included in your itinerary.

What Do The Maltese & Tourists Love About Gozo?

There are some fantastic snorkelling spots & beaches in Gozo, which is a reason why Maltese locals enjoy a quick getaway to Gozo on the weekend for some leisure time. Ramla Bay with its large sandy beach is particularly popular. Hondoq Bay is a small part of the island with a shingle beach where water sports are available and there are plenty of caves to explore. Mgarr Ix-Xini is a sheltered bay with a small beach, and there is a restaurant where you can enjoy fresh fish caught straight from the sea. If you like to catch your own dinner, you can take a fishing trip there too. Dwejra Bay is home to the iconic ‘Azure Window’, featured in a number of movies including the recent series ‘Game Of Thrones’.  This is a naturally formed arch over the stunning blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.  Unfortunately, the Azure Window’s arch collapsed last year, yet it still deserves a visit. Watch out for the ice cream truck whilst in Dwejra, its super creamy homemade vanilla and chocolate ice-cream is delicious!  If you are however adamant about viewing an arch, head to Wied Il-Mielah in Gharb.  There is a smaller arch above the sea, yet still breathtaking.

What Are The Main Attractions In Gozo?

During your trip to Gozo, we highly recommend some sight-seeing. The Cittadella, the main fortified area of Gozo, consists of a medieval castle with the more recently added gunpowder fortress, the Cathedral of Assumption, court buildings and an old prison.

The Cittadella is simply majestic and it must definitely go on your to do list.  It not only makes an interesting one of a kind stroll, but is also ideal for some photo opportunities! Going further back in time you can discover a World Heritage Site, by paying a visit to the Ggantija Temples. These remains date back to around 3400B.C. The site of the two temples is considered to be one of the oldest remaining in the world, existing longer than Stonehenge and the pyramids of Egypt.

Gozo Restaurants – The Best

After a busy day of sight-seeing you’ll be sure to have worked up an appetite to enjoy the local Gozo cuisine. There is no shortage of restaurants in Gozo.  Xlendi, Marsalforn, Mgarr, or Xaghra Pjazza are all packed with eateries  –and those that come recommended are Otters in Marsalforn, Beppe’s Restaurant & Latini in Marsalforn, Ta Philip in Ghajnsielem, Ta Tona in Mgarr, Zafiro in Xlendi, Sapana Indian Cuisine in Xlendi & Kantra in Sannat. For a delicious carbilicious lunch, pop along to Maxokk Bakery in Nadur, famous with the locals and tourists alike for its stone baked pizza to take home. We recommend the ‘Local Cheese’ and the ‘Maxokk Special’, yum! Café Jubilee in Victoria is ideal for a laid back sit-down lunch in the piazza.  This place is particularly popular for its home made Nanna’s ravioli, its pies and other traditional maltese dishes.

Getting To Gozo From Valletta

Getting to Gozo from Valletta is simple. If you’re staying at Casa Ellul, you will need to take a direct bus ride to Cirkewwa, where you can catch the ferry. We’re of course happy to help you book a reputable taxi company, in case you prefer it to public transport. The channel ferries carry passengers and cars to and from Gozo every 45 minutes and the trip will take around 20 minutes. You may wish to hire a car in Gozo, or if you have hired a car in Valletta and wish to take it to Gozo check with the hire company for permission. If you would like to spend the day on a boat and visit the bays and beaches of Gozo whilst stopping off for lunch, we can recommend some boat tours too.