The Ultimate Guide to a Gozo Day Trip Including the Ggantija Temples in Malta

From its vibrant capital city of Valletta to its charming quaint towns and villages, Malta is an island paradise that is brimming with adventure and beauty. A day trip to its little sister island, Gozo, is a must! Gozo is known for its stunning natural landscape, untamed terrain, and historic sites, like the famous Ggantija Temples – one of the oldest free-standing monuments in the world.

In this guide, we’ll provide a step-by-step day trip plan to Gozo, including all that it offers in terms of attractions, activities, restaurants, and more. We’ll discuss what you can expect from the Ggantija Temples and provide tips to ensure that you make the most of your excursion. So let’s get started!

Getting Ready for Your Gozo Day Trip

Getting to Gozo is easier than you think! Depending on what part of Malta you’re staying in, you’ll want to consider which mode of transport is best for your outing.

Traveling to Gozo by Ferry

The most popular way to get to Gozo is via ferry. The main ferry route is through Cirkewwa Island, which is arguably the most convenient. Operated by Gozo Channel Malta, the trip from Cirkewwa to Mgarr harbor in Gozo takes about 25 minutes. You can purchase tickets online or at the ferry service desk (located on Cirkewwa Island).

Traveling to Gozo by Boat

For those looking for a more luxurious experience, opting for a boat transfer from Malta to Gozo may be your best bet. Boat tours can be prearranged and typically take 3-4 hours for a round trip. You won’t have to worry about waiting in line or changing ferries – simply hop on the boat and be on your way!

Traveling to Gozo by Helicopter

Another exciting way to reach Gozo is via helicopter. It’s arguably the quickest way to get there – taking only 15 minutes for a round-trip. Helicopter transfers are available for private charters and can be booked through Malta Air Charter. Although it is a luxurious option, it isn’t necessarily the most economical one – so if you’re working with a budget, this may not be the best option for you.

Gozo Attractions and Activities

From its stunning beaches and countryside to its rustic fishing ports and charming villages, Gozo is full of sites to explore. On your excursion, you’ll want to make sure that you hit up all the must-see attractions – including Ggantija Temples and much more. Here are some suggestions:

Ggantija Temples

The Ggantija Temples are among the oldest standing structures in the world – they date back to around 4100 B.C. The temples are located in Xagħra on Gozo Island, and are one of the most visited sites on the island. Legend tells that an oval-shaped area between two hills was where these temples were originally constructed. On your day trip, take some time out of your schedule to explore these fascinating remains and absorb their incredible history.

San Blas Bay

San Blas Bay is quite possibly one of the most stunning bays on the Malta archipelago. This secluded beach offers crystal clear turquoise waters and soft sandy shores – making it the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, or just taking in picturesque views. If adventure is what you’re after – make sure you don’t miss out on renting kayaks or paddle boarding around nearby caves.

Dwejra Bay

Another incredible site on Gozo Island is Dwejra Bay. Here you’ll find the famous Azure Window – a stunning limestone arch formation that was once a popular tourist attraction until it collapsed into the water in 2017. At the entrance of this bay, you’ll also find a variety of underwater caves and tunnels – making it an ideal spot for snorkeling or diving enthusiasts.

Gozo Crafts Centre

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs or gifts to bring back home – then don’t miss out on visiting the Gozo Crafts Centre. Here you’ll find a variety of local handcrafted products made by skilled artisans on the island. The centre showcases everything from glass jewelry to traditional lacework, as well as silk scarves and ceramic pottery. This shopping wonderland offers something for everyone!

Where to Eat in Gozo

Gozo Island has quite a selection to offer when it comes to food and drinks. From cozy cafes to romantic sea-view restaurants – you won’t have any trouble finding places to eat throughout your day trip. Here are some suggestions on where you should sample some local fare:

• Ta’ Rikardu (Victoria)
• Ta’ Karmnu Ghawdex (Victoria)
• Kinnego Bay (Qala)
• Fontanella Tea Garden (Xagħra)
• Café Jubilee (Marsalforn)
• Hisa 49 (Xlendi)
• La Grotta (Marsalforn)

Making the Most of Your Gozo Day Trip

To ensure that you make the most out of your day trip to Gozo Island – there are a few tips that you should keep in mind:

• Plan your journey carefully: it’s important to plan out exactly where you would like to go and what attractions you would like to visit.
• Book your experience ahead: it’s always best practice to book any activities or sightseeing tours before your day trip.
• Bring sun protection: sun protection is essential for any outdoor excursion so don’t forget to pack a hat, sunglasses and lots of sunscreen!
• Leave early: it’s best to leave early so that you can make your return trip back to Malta before it gets dark.

Conclusion

Take full advantage of your time in Malta by embarking on a memorable day trip to Gozo Island. From exploring its ancient archaeological sites like the Ggantija Temples to taking in panoramic views over its picturesque beaches – this adventure has something for everyone! Just make sure you plan ahead and book your experience ahead of time so that all you have left to do when you get there is enjoy! If you are looking for a hassle-free way to explore this wondrous island then why not consider booking an organized tour with GetYourGuide? With their range of convenient excursions, activities and attractions – you’re sure to make the most out of your time in Malta! Click here to book your tour today!