Many people only go to Gozo as part of a day trip, where they only get to see the basic attractions the island has to offer. However, Gozo offers many interesting activities that will keep you busy for days.
Beaches and swimming
Although Gozo is not a renowned beach destination, there is something for everyone who enjoys swimming in the sea and sunbathing on the beaches. The beaches here are few and not among the largest, but you'll find every imaginable kind.
The beaches on Gozo are mostly more natural with less tourist facilities. You'll only find small snack stalls on most of them, and virtually all of them are out in the countryside away from the town centres.
On the larger beaches you can always rent sunbeds and umbrellas with prices around 15 eur for a set of 2 sunbeds.
Sandy beaches and beaches ideal for children are represented by one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole of Malta - Ramla Bay.
Most of the other beaches will delight romantics and lovers of beautiful natural scenery as well as snorkelling and diving. Among the most beautiful beaches, Wied il-Ghasri or Mgarr ix-Xini are surely the most beautiful.
Hiking
Along the coast of Gozo stretches the so-called Gozo Coastal Walk, a hiking trail that takes you around the island. The whole route is 50 kilometres long and is divided into 4 smaller sections marked with colours.
- Red - runs from the port of Mgarr to the town of Xlendi, the route is moderately difficult, measuring 12 km. Along the way you will be able to admire the highest cliffs to be found on Gozo, including the Sanap Cliffs.
- Blue - continues from Xlendi to San Lawrenz. The route is 11 km long and is again considered moderately challenging. You will reach Dwerja Bay, where the now collapsed Azure Window was located.
- Green - leading from San Lawrenz to Marsalforn is considered the easiest section, measuring about 11 km. Don't expect any major elevation changes here, so this route is also suitable for families with smaller children. You will walk along the quiet northern coastline, enjoy the Wied Il-Għasri Bay and reach the popular salt pans at the end of the route.
- Yellow - is considered the most challenging section. It leads from Marsalforn back to Mgarr. It is 16 km long and you will encounter several ascending sections along the way. The route takes you to not so well known beaches and hidden corners.
Large parts of Gozo Coastal Walk are on roads, but the traffic is not very heavy.
Diving and snorkelling
Gozo is one of the most popular dive sites in the Mediterranean. It offers plenty of dive opportunities for both novice enthusiasts and more experienced divers.
The sea here is usually calm, visibility is excellent and the sea temperature never drops below 13°C. There are plenty of places on the mainland where you can start your dive, so there is no need to go out to sea.
One of the most popular dive sites is the Blue Hole in Dwejra Bay, which boasts an underwater arch leading out to the open sea. Diving is also available around Xlendi, Ta' Cenc, Marsalforn and Mġarr ix-Xini Bay.
The whole northern coast is a very popular area with many underwater caves.
Example of diving centres:
What are the prices?
- Beginner school: 80 eur for one hour and one dive (usually 3 dives)
- Full Scuba Diving course: approx. 300 eur
Apart from scuba diving, Gozo offers many more opportunities for snorkelling. You can put on goggles, snorkel and fins virtually anywhere there is access to the sea and you will never leave disappointed. The best spots are the narrow indented bays, headed by Wied il-Ghasri or the bay off the town of Xlendi.
You can buy snorkelling equipment up to 20 eur in shops by the beaches or in town centres.
Cycling
Cycling is very popular in Gozo, not only among tourists but also among locals.
So rent a bike for at least 1 day and see the island from a different perspective. The best time for cycling is from October to May, when temperatures are pleasant and there is little traffic on the roads. As part of the SIBIT programme under the auspices of the European Union, a route has been created on Gozo for cyclists. The route is 42 kilometres long and can be completed in about 3 hours without stopping.
Example of bike rental centres:
The normal price for a one-day bike rental with helmet and lock is around 12 eur. For multi-day rentals, prices per day are then slightly lower.
Boat trips and water sports
Gozo also offers water sports and sea cruises. Explore the coastline from a kayak, enjoy a wild ride on a jet ski, try water skiing or go pedal boating with the family.
A trip to the neighbouring island of Comino, home to the famous Blue Lagoon with its crystal clear waters, or a cruise around Gozo with several snorkelling and swimming stops are also very popular.
Half day cruises cost around 35 eur, with lunch and drinks then 45 eur. Full day cruises start at around 50 eur. Example of Gozo cruise companies:
Sights and history
History buffs must not miss the Ġgantija Temples on Gozo, a monument even listed by UNESCO.
The Basilica of Ta'Pinu and the famous Cittadella are also must-sees, as are the many Baroque churches adorning Victoria's city centre.
Culture and festivals
Gozo is home to a huge variety of cultural events throughout the year. Of particular note is the five-day carnival in February or March, followed by the spring classical music festival Gaulitana.
From the end of May to mid-September there are numerous village festivals, traditionally called festa. Each town holds an annual festival for its patron saint, buildings are decorated, bands march through the streets and a great time is had by all.
In September you can enjoy the Qala International Folk Festival, and in October you can't miss the Festival Mediterranea, which introduces the history and traditions of Gozo.
If you are an opera lover, don't miss a visit to the Astra and Aurora opera houses in Victoria.