20+ Best Things To Do and See In Gozo

1) The Citadel

Located right in the heart of Gozo’s capital, Victoria, the Citadel (or Iċ-Ċittadella), sits on top of a hill and can be seen from different parts of the island.

Entrance is free, and you can wander around its walls and alleys as much as you like. It’s truly one of those places that makes you feel as if you’ve time-travelled to a different era.

This ancient fortress is home to several museums that give deeper insights into Gozo’s heritage and its inhabitants, e.g., the Museum of Archaeology, the Cittadella Visitors’ Centre, the Gozo Nature Museum, and the Old Prison (An entrance fee is required).

2) Old Town Victoria

As you walk down from the Citadel, you can cross the road and head into the old part of Victoria, with small winding roads and alleys around St. George’s Square. It’s a relaxed vibe and an easy way to get a taste of local life.

Republic Street, the main road in Victoria, is also worth taking a stroll on, filled with shops, cafés, and essential amenities.

3) Ramla l-Ħamra

Ramla Bay (Ir-Ramla l-Ħamra) needs no introduction. Renowned for its reddish sand hues, clay deposits, and high cliffs, it is Gozo’s most famous beach. Families can enjoy a day out with their kids while adventure seekers can snorkel around the bay or dabble with a couple of water sports activities. Ramla Bay is also a great spot to enjoy a beautiful sunset.

On either side of the bay, high up on the cliffs, are the famous Tal-Mixta Cave and Calypso’s Cave, associated with the nymph Calypso (from Greek mythology). These are two magnificent spots where you can get some great shots.

4) The Ġgantija Megalithic Temples

The Ġgantija Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are among Gozo’s most significant historical sites. Consisting of two temple structures dating back to c.3600 and c.3200 BC, this prehistoric archaeological park most certainly warrants a visit.

5) Ta’ Pinu Basilica of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Ta’ Pinu Basilica is one of the most iconic landmarks to see when you visit Gozo. Besides being a place of worship, it’s truly an artistic and architectural masterpiece in its own right.

This magnificent church is a bucket list destination for anyone visiting the island.

6) Xwejni Bay and the Salt Pans

A visit to the Xwejni salt pans should definitely be on your list of things to do in Gozo. Besides being one of the most spectacular backdrops on the island, it’s interesting to learn more about how the salt pans act as sieves for the salt after it washes up from the sea. Salt is harvested between mid-May and early September.

Dating back to Roman and Phoenician times, this tradition is still prevalent to this day! You can buy mined salt by Leli tal-Melħ at their nearby shop.

7) Dwejra

Known as the former site of the famous Azure Window, Dwejra is located on the west coast of the island. Think of stunning rock formations like the Fungus Rock, iconic landmarks like the Dwejra Tower, and beautiful swimming/snorkelling and diving locations like the Inland Sea, Blue Hole, and the Coral Gardens. The relaxed atmosphere of Dwejra, with its dreamlike quality and tranquil environment, makes it an ideal spot for visitors seeking a break from bustling tourist hotspots. Not to be missed!

8) Wied il-Għasri

Renowned as one of the best snorkelling and diving spots on the island, Wied il-Għasri is one of Gozo’s lesser-known spots, celebrated for its natural beauty. If you don’t mind going down 100+ stairs to get there, it’s a great place to enjoy a walk in the countryside and to take a dip in the sea at its pebbly shoreline.

9) Xlendi Bay

Located on Gozo’s southwest coast, Xlendi is one of the most popular places to visit during the peak summer season.

The small beach is ideal for families with kids or travellers who prefer shallow waters. You can also jump in from the rocky shore if you love deeper waters, and it’s also a great place if you fancy trying fresh fish and seafood dishes.

10) Wied il-Mielaħ Window

If you weren’t one of the lucky visitors who managed to see Dwejra’s famous Azure Window before it collapsed in a storm, I’ll let you in on a secret.

Situated on the outskirts of Għarb is another natural window formed in the rocky cliff by the sea, Wied il-Mielaħ. The window itself is reachable via a long rock stairway with a handle. The views are truly incredible, but do be mindful here, especially if your mobility is limited or the weather conditions aren’t great. Wied il-Mielaħ Window is also a great spot to enjoy a beautiful sunset.

Yippee Tours

Yippee has my highest recommendation for several reasons. Their Tuk Tuk, Jeep Safari, Quad Bike, and Buggy day trips are convenient and well-organised.

All their tours are led by local guides and drivers who know the island like the back of their hand and are happy to share their knowledge of Gozo with you.

You’ll get to visit most of the island’s major attractions, including Gozo Victoria, Wied il-Għasri, the ancient Xwejni Salt Pans, Marsalforn, Ta’ Pinu Basilica and Shrine, Wied il-Mielaħ, Dwejra (including the Fungus Rock and Inland Sea), and Ta’ Sanap Cliffs.

All tours include a boat trip around Comino and its Blue Lagoon, while some options offer a swim stop. Each tour also has a “Sunset” version during the summer months – highly recommended!

These are the standard tours you can book:

• Tuk-Tuk Tour (Driven by guide)
• Jeep Safari (Driven by guide)
• Quad Bike Tour (Self-drive, following lead driver)
• Buggy Tour (Self-drive, following lead driver)

N.B. Flexible cancellation is offered 24 hrs before the tour starts.

Gozo Full Day Tour

This full-day tour offers insights into some of the most popular tourist destinations in Gozo.

After a short boat trip from the Gozo ferry Terminal in Ċirkewwa to Mġarr Harbour, an air-conditioned bus will take you around some of the island’s most beautiful places.

You’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will show you around and explain the historical significance and any interesting facts about all the places included in the itinerary.

What’s more, you are treated to a 3-course lunch featuring some of the best local delicacies. You’ll also have the opportunity to buy Gozitan souvenirs such as knitwear, handmade lace, and artisanal products like honey and cheeselets.

2. Book Tasting Tours and Sample the Best Local Delicacies

Fancy eating and drinking like a local? I’ve got a few options that will most certainly pique the interest of all the foodies reading this!

Tal-Massar Winery

Having been to one of the tastings a couple of years ago, I highly recommend booking a tasting at Tal-Massar Winery. Nestled in the quaint village of Għarb, this is a family-run boutique winery with origins dating back to 1934.

You’ll enjoy a short tour of the vineyards and get an explanation of which grape varieties they use to produce their bottles. You’ll also be offered tasting samples of various local delicacies such as homemade bread, cold cuts and cheese, sundried tomatoes, and cold-pressed olive oil.

Ta’ Mena Wine Estates

One of the best wine estates in Gozo offers tasting experiences on request.

Your visit to Ta’ Mena includes an introduction to its roots and traditions, followed by an explanation of winemaking, olive pressing, and traditional artisanal foods. All tastings are accompanied by delicious Gozitan platters with items such as sundried tomatoes, olive oil, and peppered cheeselets (locally known as Ġbejniet tal-Bżar).

What’s more, you can also purchase any of the bottles you like and their food products from the shop.

Lord Chambray Craft Beer Brewery

Not a wine drinker? No problem! If you enjoy craft beers, I highly recommend a visit to Lord Chambray in Xewkija; the very first craft beer brewery on the Maltese Islands.

Run by the D’Imperio family, the brewery offers a wide product range of the freshest lagers to full-bodied stouts, including vegan and gluten alternatives.

Savour the famous Gozitan Pizza

Don’t leave the island without devouring the traditional Gozitan Pizza and the traditional ftira, a unique local delicacy. Two popular bakeries located in Nadur, Maxokk and Mekren both offer a range of Gozitan pizzas and ftajjar (plural of ftira), topped with only the freshest ingredients. The ftira, a ring-shaped, leavened bread resembling a pizza or calzone with various toppings, is a must-try and is even included on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Since these places are bakeries rather than restaurants, bear in mind that there are no seats available outside or inside the premises. However, you can get a takeaway and pick a scenic spot to enjoy your treat.

Gozitan Restaurants

Whether you fancy meat or fish dishes or other Mediterranean and local delicacies, you can’t go wrong with the number of restaurants available across all towns and villages in Gozo.

More info here: Gozo’s best restaurants.

3. Go to the beach

From popular sandy bays to dramatic rocky ones, you’re spoiled for choice with the number of beaches that Gozo offers. Take the time to relax and unwind on the beautiful shores, whether you prefer lounging on the sand or exploring the rugged coastline.

Here are some of my favourite ones:

Ramla Bay (near Xagħra)

Locally known as Ir-Ramla il-Ħamra, this is perhaps the best beach in Gozo that is great for all kinds of visitors, including those travelling with children. Famous for its reddish sand, clay deposits, high cliffs, and panoramic views, you really can’t go wrong here.

Wied il-Għasri (near Għasri)

Wied il-Għasri is a sheltered bay and is one of Gozo’s hidden gems that can be found at the bottom of a rocky staircase, right in the heart of the valley. The natural beauty of this scenic gorge makes it a great swimming spot and diving site that certainly warrants a visit!

Ħondoq ir-Rummien (near Qala)

Ħondoq ir-Rummien is another spot that is quite popular amongst Gozitans and tourists. There’s a sandy/pebbly shore for beachgoers who prefer a shallow area and don’t mind the sand. However, there’s also a rocky area for swimmers who love jumping straight into the sea!

Dwejra Bay (close to San Lawrenz)

Dwejra is a popular swimming spot amongst many swimmers, snorkelers, and experienced divers. The Inland Sea area is a spectacular lagoon of seawater that is linked to the open sea via a naturally formed arch.

Here, beachgoers can enjoy swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing as well as short boat tours along the dramatic, rugged coastline and caves. These boat tours offer a leisurely cruise, allowing visitors to appreciate the scenic beauty of the coastline and the unique salt pans. If you’re an experienced diver, you can even explore the Blue Hole and Coral Gardens; undoubtedly, some of the most beautiful dive sites across the three Maltese Islands.

Looking for more sandy beaches and hidden gems? Check out our Gozo beaches guide!

4. Water sports

Scuba divers, thrill seekers, and other travellers who are up for a fun activity in Gozo participate in a variety of water sports activities at several beaches on the island.

Diving

There are several diving schools around Gozo (with Malta being one of the best diving destinations in Europe) where you can book a dive. Beginner divers are welcome to take a couple of lessons, while more advanced learners can also book lessons focused on technique.

If you’re an expert diver and are happy to do your own thing, Gozo is filled with some of the most beautiful dive sites, showcasing the natural beauty of the underwater landscapes.

Other Water Sports

Popular beaches like Marsalforn, Gozo Ramla Bay, Xlendi, and the Blue Lagoon on Comino Island have several beach rentals that you can use for a water sports activity. Take the time to relax and unwind while enjoying activities such as kayaking, jet skiing, canoeing, paddle boating, as well as sofa rides and other inflatables.

5. Hikes

Hikers and nature enthusiasts will love exploring Gozo’s rocky cliffs, coastal paths, and green hills, all showcasing the island’s natural beauty. Whether you’re an expert hiker or someone who enjoys a leisurely walk in the countryside or along the coast, there are plenty of walking paths you can explore. And on that note, here are my favourite trails:

1. Tas-Salvatur Hill
2. Ramla Bay to Tal-Mixta Cave and/or Calypso’s Cave
3. Marsalforn to the Salt Pans at Xwejni
4. Xwejni to Għasri Valley
5. Mġarr Harbour to Ħondoq ir-Rummien
6. Wied il-Għasri to Wied il-Mielaħ.