Are you planning a holiday soon? Are you looking for a new place to visit? Check out Gozo! This paradise may be small in size, but it definitely has a lot to offer.
For first time visitors, there are plenty of sightseeing tours in Gozo that are sure to give a glimpse of the island’s rich history and natural beauty. From mythical caves and charming old chapels to pristine waters and spectacular rock formations, everything is conveniently packed into this small tropical haven.
Expect to see the best of nature and history, given that Gozo is the sister island of Malta, an island in the Meditteranean.
WHY YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT GOZO
Compared to Malta, Gozo has a less-urbanized atmosphere with fewer crowds. The serenity of this place makes it a perfect venue to take it slow and relax, especially after long and busy days of exploring other areas in the country.
Since this small island is less-industrialized, expect to see fewer buildings and more unspoiled nature. There are a number of stunning beaches in Gozo that offer crystal clear waters and fine sand.
There’s no shortage of physical activities here as well. From swimming and diving to long walks in the countryside, there’s plenty to keep you busy.
- READ MORE: A Day in Malta Itinerary
Just like its sister island Malta, Gozo is also rich in history that is still evident in some of its historic sites and festivities. It also boasts some of the best food in the country, especially its local delicacies.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO CHECK OUT GOZO?
The timing of your visit to Gozo can definitely make or break your trip. While it’s true that you can fully enjoy this island during summer, it is worth noting that it’s also the time of the year when tourists flock to the area. It’s also the time of the year when most local festivities are celebrated. July and August are considered the hottest and busiest period of the year in the country.
However, if you prefer a more peaceful vacation, it is recommended to visit around May and June. You can enjoy warm spring weather with fewer tourists to share it with.
HOW TO GET THERE
One of the most common ways to get to Gozo is by ferry. The ferry terminal located in Ċirkewwa offers regular trips for tourists and locals alike. It even offers schedules at night for those who can’t travel at an earlier time. The trip usually takes about 20 minutes and operates year round.
On the island, Gozo is serviced by 10 bus routes. It is one of the most accessible modes of transportation, especially since buses run every hour all week long. The bus network is also connected to Malta’s International Airport and cruise ports, making it very convenient for tourists to travel.
If you’re not into public transportation, there are car rental services in Malta that are sure to cater your traveling needs. You can even cross over to Gozo with your rented car via ferry at an additional fee. Driving in Gozo is relatively easier and more convenient than in other areas. Since it’s less-urbanized, there’s hardly any traffic on the streets.
SIGHTSEEING SPOTS TO VISIT
In Gozo, there are tons of places you can visit that will make your trip memorable. Since the island is small, it’s very easy to access these sightseeing spots. In fact, some of these places can be explored by foot, making it ideal for those who want to appreciate its beauty at their own pace.
Check out some of the must-see places in Gozo below:
ĠGANTIJA TEMPLES
Considered as a UNESCO World Heritage site, these gigantic megaliths date from 3600 to 3200 BC. Some locals even believe that these temples were the work of giants due to its massive size. The Ġgantija Temples are made of coralline limestone blocks, with lengths exceeding five meters and weighs over fifty tons.
DWERJA
Once home to the Azure Window, which sadly collapsed into the sea in March 2017, Dwerja is widely famous for its natural wonders and rare geological features. Tourists can also enjoy the Gozitan coast via a traditional boat called luzzu. If you prefer to stay on land, you can visit the well-restored Dwerja Tower.
- READ MORE: Touring the Blue Grotto
RAMLA BAY
Also known as Ramla il-Hamra, this unspoiled paradise is known as the biggest bay in Gozo. It features reddish-colored sand and pristine waters, accentuated by rocky headlands. This is the perfect place if you want to simply enjoy the sun and scenic views of the island. You can also see the statue of Virgin Mary on the beach, which was built way back 1881 to commemorate a local shipwreck.
TA’ PINU CHURCH
Gozo is also home to the Basilica of Ta’ Pinu, a famous place of pilgrimage for many locals. It is believed that in 1883, a woman heard the voice of the Virgin Mary in an old chapel and that miracles manifested at the site. Today, the place is a fully functional church and conducts masses.
