The second largest island in the Maltese archipelago, Gozo is home to among the most beautiful and delicious offerings in Malta and it is well worth a visit. Less developed and more rural than the larger island of Malta, Gozo is filled with enchanting sights as it inspires images of Malta may have once been like.
Arrival in Mgarr
Getting to Gozo and Getting Around
The only way to Gozo from Malta is the ferry from Ċirkewwa in the north of Malta. You can get here via buses from areas like Sliema quite easily, while there are also taxis available to take you there. The ferry itself is quite cheap and offers views over the nature reserve island of Comino on the way to the Gozitan town of Mgarr. Once on the island, it’s a good idea to either drive around, use a taxi service or take advantage of the hop on hop off bus service, which takes you round all of the main sights on the island for a relatively low price.
Things to See and Do
Once on Gozo, you’ll likely see Mgarr harbour, which is a picturesque seaside town. After that, it’s a good idea to make your way to Rabat, otherwise known as Victoria, capped with a fortified Citadella and filled with beautiful churches like the Church of St Francis and the Cathedral of the Assumption. Other important churches to visit include the beautiful San Lawrenz church and its striking silver domes, as well as the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta' Pinu, arguably the most beautiful building on the island.
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta' Pinu
When making your way around the island, also be sure to visit the Ġgantija temples, dating back to 3600 BC, older than the pyramids of Egypt and the world’s second oldest religious structures (Göbekli Tepe in Turkey is older). The Ta' Kola Windmill is also nearby, which isn’t really saying much considering the size of the island.
Ġgantija temples
Gozo is full of beautiful towns and seaside destinations to visit, including the famous Dwejra and its now gone Azure Window. Even with this now unfortunately destroyed, it’s still a lovely place to visit. The towns of Xlendi and Marsalforn are also fascinating, with Marsalforn being our personal favourite due to the nearby Salt Pans, the seafront and the brilliant restaurant Otters Bistro. Otters is right on the seaside and a good place to relax with a glass of local wine. The rabbit pot here is an absolute must.
Eating well in Marsalforn
While on Gozo, you should also try Ġbejna, a local style of hard cheese, Gozitan ftira (which is like pizza) and fresh fish, for which the island is famed.
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