The best things to do in Malta, the pearl of the Mediterranean
February 6, 2024
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Gozo is like Malta's little sister: less touristy, but equally beautiful. Totally different though are the islands; where Malta is known for its vibrant city life, on Gozo you will find more unspoiled nature and authentic island life, almost as if time has stood still. With plenty of attractions, Gozo is not only perfect for a relaxing beach vacation, but also for a fun day trip. In this article, I share the hotspots that will make your (lightning) visit unforgettable.
The journey from Malta to Gozo
Gozo is often visited as a day trip from the main island of Malta. It is a short ferry ride away, making it the ideal place to add to your vacation to Malta.Â
To reach Gozo, take the ferry from Gozo Channel. The ferry leaves from the port ÄŠirkewwa and sails day and night, often every 45 minutes. The crossing takes about 20 minutes and costs about 5 euros.Â
1. Go to the salt flats of Gozo
When you say Gozo, you say salt. The salt pans can be found on the north coast of the island, in the village of Xwejni. Here the salt is extracted in the traditional way, also everything is collected and packed by hand. In a little store down the road you can buy the salt (with all kinds of spices and herbs) and believe me, you want it.Â
2. Admire Ramla BayÂ
Even Malta's locals regularly cross over to Gozo for its beaches. The most famous bay is Ramla Bay, an extraordinary red-sand beach surrounded by cliffs. Lovely if you want to spend an (after) afternoon swimming and snorkeling in the clear waters.Â
3. Take a look at the Ä gantija Temples
The impressive Ä gantija Temples are thought to be even older than the pyramids in Egypt. No one knows exactly how these gigantic limestone structures got there, although the islanders have a special theory about them, namely giants. This is also how the temples got the name "Ä gantija," which means giant in Maltese.Â
4. Spot the Ta' Kola windmill
A stone's throw from the Ä gantija Temples you will find the Ta' Kolo windmill, one of the last original windmills on the island. The mill dates back to 1725 (!) and used to grind grain into flour with huge grinding stones. A beautiful sight, certainly different from "our" Dutch windmills. Â
5. Visit the capital city of RabatÂ
Rabat is the capital of the island. In 1887, the city was officially named Victoria in honor of the golden jubilee of the British queen. Be sure to visit the many hip stores here (cool vintage tip: Vogue Xchange) and the famous Citadel, where you can enjoy breathtaking views.
Hot spot tip on GozoÂ
Looking for a nice hot spot on Gozo? Qbajjar Restaurant is designated by many as one of the best local restaurants on Gozo. With a sea view, enjoy traditional Maltese dishes in a Mediterranean setting and fresh seafood daily.Â
Also read: The best things to do on the island of Malta
A Mediterranean climate, colorful towns, ancient history and a rich culture, do I need to say more? Malta has all the ingredients for a unique getaway. Here are the best things to do while visiting Malta.
Tips to do in Malta
Malta is such a fine island, truly a jewel of a destination in the Mediterranean. It is the ideal destination for a sun vacation, but also perfect for a trip where you want to immerse yourself in culture and nature. Because all this is you can find in Malta. Are you curious? These are the best things to do in Malta!
Marlissa de Kok
A traveling master of law with a passion for writing and a hefty dose of aesthetics. Captures enviable images with her overpriced iPhone and drags her baby blue Polaroid camera everywhere she goes. Started her travel adventure in luxury all-in resorts and occasionally ends up under a starry sky in the Sahara.
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