Gozo Full Day visiting Ggantija Temples, Salt Pans & Dwejra

Discovering Gozo: A Full-Day Adventure with Ancient Temples and Stunning Coastlines

Thinking of a day trip that combines history, nature, and authentic Maltese charm? This Gozo Full Day Tour offers a well-rounded experience, lasting about 8 hours, with transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and visits to some of the island’s most iconic spots. You’ll cross by ferry from Malta, explore the Ggantija Temples, ride a trackless train past salt pans, and visit the medieval capital of Victoria.

What we love most is how the tour balances history and scenery—the ancient Ggantija Temples, built over 5,550 years ago, are a fascinating window into prehistoric life, while Dwejra Bay and the salt pans provide stunning coastal views. Plus, the visit to the Crafts Shop gives you a taste of local Maltese traditions, and the walk through Victoria’s Cittadella offers a peek into the island’s layered past.

A possible drawback is the pace—as reviews mention, it can be slightly rushed, especially when fitting in multiple stops within a single day. For those who prefer a leisurely exploration or have mobility issues, this might feel a bit fast. Still, if you’re eager to see the key highlights without spending too much time on logistics, this tour hits many of the high points.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of Gozo’s most famous sights in a single day, especially if limited on time but eager to absorb the essence of the island’s culture, history, and landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Historic Sites: The Ggantija Temples are over 5,550 years old, offering a glimpse into prehistoric religious life.
• Scenic Views: Coastal spots like Dwejra Bay and the salt pans provide beautiful scenery and photo opportunities.
• Authentic Experiences: Visiting a Crafts Shop allows you to sample local foods and buy traditional Maltese crafts.
• Convenience: Included ferry tickets and transportation make navigating the island straightforward.
• Guided Insight: A licensed guide enhances the experience with historical context and local knowledge.
• Pace & Duration: The tour packs a lot into 8 hours, which suits travelers wanting a broad overview but might feel rushed for some.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Out: From Malta to Gozo

The tour begins with a hotel pickup, a convenience that saves you the hassle of figuring out transportation. From there, you cross by ferry, which in itself is a scenic journey—ferry rides are quick, and the experience of crossing the channel sets the tone for island exploration.

Ggantija Temples: Prehistoric Marvels

Your first stop is the Ggantija Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest free-standing structures in the world. Built over 5,550 years ago, the temples are made of massive stone blocks, and walking through them, you can almost hear the echoes of ancient ceremonies. The guide will often share insights into how these megalithic structures might have been used and their significance for early Maltese societies.

Travelers consistently praise this site for its awe-inspiring scale and preservation, with one review noting that the temples are “different” and “fascinating.” The visit provides a meaningful connection to Malta’s deep-rooted ancient past that’s often overshadowed by more modern attractions.

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Trackless Train and Salt Pans: Scenic Coastal Drive

Next, you’ll hop aboard a trackless train for a 40-minute ride past Marsalforn Bay, Qbajjar Bay, and Xwejni Bay. This part of the tour offers panoramic views of salt pans, which are still in use today. The salt pans, with their vivid white walls reflecting the sun, are a classic Maltese scene and photographically compelling.

Many reviews highlight this train ride as a highlight, with one traveler calling it “beautiful and very interesting,” adding that it’s a great way to see the coastline without much walking. The salt pans also give insight into a traditional industry that’s been part of island life for generations.

Crafts Shop: Tasting and Buying Maltese Tradition

A visit to a Crafts Shop offers a chance to taste some of Malta’s traditional foods—think local cheeses, honey, or cured meats—alongside the opportunity to buy handmade crafts. It’s a pleasant break where you can interact with local artisans and get a sense of the island’s cultural fabric.

Some guests emphasize that this stop adds authenticity to the trip, and it’s appreciated as a chance to support local artisans. It’s a brief but rewarding step in understanding Malta’s artisanal traditions.

Dwejra Bay and the Inland Sea: Natural Wonders

One of the tour’s most stunning stops is Dwejra Bay, home to the Inland Sea—a natural lagoon carved from the rock. You might take a short boat trip (weather permitting) to see the Il-ebla tal-eneral, a mushroom-shaped rock formation, and the famous fungus-like rock. These geological features are captivating, and many visitors love the dramatic coastal scenery.

Reviews often mention how beautiful Dwejra is, with some wishing for more time here to take it all in. The chance to see the Inland Sea and the rock formations up close makes this stop particularly memorable.

Victoria and the Cittadella: Medieval Charm

The final stop is Victoria, the island’s capital, dominated by the Cittadella—a fortress originally built by the Phoenicians and later transformed into a Roman-era acropolis. The medieval walls offer fantastic views over the island, and wandering the narrow streets gives a sense of local life.

While some reviews note that the time in Victoria is limited, the walk along the cittadella walls is highly praised for its breathtaking vistas and historic ambiance. It’s an excellent place to soak in the atmosphere and perhaps enjoy a quick coffee or gelato before heading back.

Returning to Malta

The day wraps up with a comfortable coach ride back, with hotel drop-offs included. This seamless end to the day makes the experience suitable for travelers who prefer to relax rather than navigate unfamiliar transport after a full day exploring.

Evaluating the Value

The tour costs a moderate fee considering it includes ferry tickets, transportation, and guided narration. The inclusion of a licensed guide enhances the experience, making complex history accessible and engaging. The stops are well-chosen for their iconic status and scenic appeal, making it a good value for those wanting to see the highlights without extra planning.

One of the most praised aspects, according to reviews, is the knowledgeable guidance—”Maria is an excellent guide,” one reviewer says. This kind of insight makes the visit more meaningful, especially at sites like Ggantija and the Cittadella.

While food isn’t included, the stop at the Crafts Shop provides chances to taste local foods if you bring snacks or plan to buy some souvenirs. The day is quite full, and the pace is brisk, which suits travelers eager to see a lot but might tire those who prefer a slower approach.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day excursion is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of Gozo’s most famous attractions in a single day. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but eager to get a taste of the island’s ancient sites, stunning coastlines, and medieval fortifications. If you enjoy guided trips with insightful commentary, you’ll appreciate the knowledgeable guides highlighted in reviews.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, be aware that the schedule involves some walking and quick stops. Also, the tour is better for those who can handle the midday crowd and the brisk pace that keeps the day moving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation within Malta and Gozo, including the ferry ticket and coach rides, is included. Pickup and drop-off from your hotel or the nearest point are also provided.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, so be prepared for a full day of sightseeing with some walking involved.

Are meals included in the price?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring snacks, especially since lunch is scheduled later in the day in Victoria.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it involves some walking and may be fast-paced for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve ahead of time, especially since the tour can fill up. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I customize the tour?
The itinerary is set, but you can ask your guide about additional options or longer stays at certain sites if time permits.

Final Thoughts

This Gozo Full Day Tour offers a rich and varied taste of the island’s most celebrated sights, blending prehistoric temples, scenic coastlines, and medieval architecture. It’s a well-organized way to explore Gozo without the stress of planning, and the guides’ local knowledge makes a significant difference in understanding the sites.

While it moves at a brisk pace, the experience rewards travelers with memorable views, fascinating history, and authentic Maltese culture. It’s especially suited for those limited on time but eager to get a broad overview of what makes Gozo special—its ancient past, stunning landscapes, and charming towns.

In essence, this tour is a practical, engaging way to deepen your appreciation of Malta’s sister island, leaving you with plenty to think about and perhaps inspiration to return for a longer stay.

Note: Always check availability and specific starting times, as they can vary. Bring comfortable shoes and a sense of curiosity—you’ll love the stories and scenery awaiting you.

You can check availability for your dates here: