Gozo and Ggantija Temples Full-Day Excursion From Malta

Immerse oneself in the captivating history and breathtaking landscapes of Gozo, the second-largest island in the Maltese archipelago. This full-day excursion from Malta promises an unforgettable journey, from the scenic ferry ride across the azure waters to the exploration of the UNESCO-listed Ggantija Temples, one of the world’s oldest free-standing structures. Explore the island’s rich cultural heritage, experiencing traditional craftsmanship and savoring local delicacies, before embarking on a guided tour of the charming city of Victoria and indulging in a delightful Gozitan dinner. Prepare to be enthralled by the captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and authentic culinary experiences that this excursion has in store.

Key Points

• Explore the UNESCO-listed Ggantija Temples, some of the oldest standing structures in the world, on a full-day excursion from Malta.
• Discover the picturesque town of Marsalforn and its surrounding bays, showcasing Gozo’s diverse landscapes and coastal beauty.
• Visit the Gozo Craft Centre to interact with local artisans and sample traditional Gozitan delicacies.
• Enjoy a guided tour of Victoria, Gozo’s capital city, including a visit to the Cittadella and the Gozo Cathedral.
• Conclude the tour with a dinner in Rabat, featuring authentic Gozitan cuisine and an immersive cultural experience.

Tour Highlights

What’re the highlights of this Gozo and Ggantija Temples excursion?

Travelers will depart from Valletta and take a 30-minute ferry ride to the island of Gozo.

The tour’s main attraction is a visit to the UNESCO-listed Ggantija Temples, which date back over 5,550 years, pre-dating the Egyptian Pyramids and Stonehenge.

Guests will also explore the picturesque town of Marsalforn, taking in views of the surrounding bays.

The tour includes a stop at the Gozo Craft Centre for a chance to purchase local handicrafts and sample regional cuisine.

Ggantija Temples

The Ggantija Temples stand as the centerpiece of the excursion, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into Malta’s rich cultural heritage.

These Neolithic structures, over 5,550 years old, predate the Egyptian pyramids and Stonehenge, making them one of the oldest free-standing monuments in the world.

Visitors will marvel at the massive limestone blocks that make up the temples, a testament to the engineering prowess of their ancient builders.

As they explore the site, they’ll discover intricately carved artifacts and learn about the mysterious rituals and practices that took place within these sacred walls.

The Ggantija Temples provide a powerful connection to Malta’s distant past and a truly unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Marsalforn Bay Exploration

After exploring the ancient Ggantija Temples, the excursion takes visitors to the charming seaside town of Marsalforn.

Here, travelers can enjoy stunning views of Marsalforn Bay, Qbajjar Bay, and Xwejni Bay. The guide provides insightful commentary as the group strolls along the picturesque promenade, pointing out the traditional fishing boats and vibrant local shops.

Travelers have the opportunity to wander at their own pace, perhaps stopping for a refreshing drink or snack at one of the cafes overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean.

This scenic stop offers a delightful contrast to the ancient monuments, giving visitors a well-rounded glimpse into Gozo’s diverse landscapes and culture.

Gozo Craft Centre

Next, the excursion takes visitors to the Gozo Craft Centre, where they can browse an array of local handicrafts and sample traditional Gozitan delicacies.

The centre showcases the island’s rich artisanal heritage, offering handmade textiles, pottery, glassware, and intricate weavings. Visitors can interact with skilled craftspeople and learn about the techniques that have been passed down for generations.

The centre also features a tasting area, allowing guests to savor the flavors of Gozo, from flavorful cheeses to sun-dried tomatoes and fresh-baked bread.

This stop provides an immersive cultural experience, highlighting the vibrant artistry and culinary traditions that make Gozo unique.

Victoria City Tour

Following the tour of the Ggantija Temples and the stop at the Gozo Craft Centre, the excursion continues with a guided exploration of Victoria, the capital city of Gozo. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the Cittadella, a fortified city dating back to the 15th century, as well as the Gozo Cathedral. The tour also includes free time for sightseeing or shopping, allowing travelers to enjoy the local culture.

Attraction	Highlights
Cittadella	Fortified city with stunning views
Gozo Cathedral	Impressive Baroque-style cathedral
Free Time	Opportunity to explore at own pace

After the Victoria City Tour, the excursion concludes with a dinner in Rabat before returning to Malta.

Dinner in Rabat

As the excursion draws to a close, the group is treated to a dinner in Rabat, the historic town on the island of Gozo.

Located just a short drive from Victoria, Rabat offers a picturesque setting for the final meal of the day.

The dinner features a selection of traditional Gozitan dishes, showcasing the local cuisine and flavors.

Participants have the opportunity to savor authentic Maltese specialties, complemented by the warm hospitality of the local restaurant.

With the sights and sounds of Rabat as the backdrop, the meal provides a fitting conclusion to the day’s exploration of Gozo’s cultural and historical treasures.

Tour Inclusions

The tour package includes a licensed guide who provides live commentary throughout the excursion, offering insights and historical context.

Hotel pickup and drop-off services are also provided, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day.

Local taxes and gratuities are included in the price, so travelers don’t have to worry about additional costs.

Admission to the Ggantija Archaeological Park and Marsalforn Bay is covered, allowing visitors to fully experience these iconic Gozitan sites.

With these comprehensive inclusions, the tour provides a hassle-free and enriching exploration of Gozo’s cultural and natural wonders.

Tour Details

The Gozo and Ggantija Temples Excursion begins with a departure from Valletta, where travelers embark on a 30-minute ferry ride to the picturesque island of Gozo.

The tour features a visit to the UNESCO-listed Ggantija Temples, which date back over 5,550 years, predating the Egyptian Pyramids and Stonehenge.

Guests will also explore the charming town of Marsalforn, taking in the stunning views of the bay, and stop at the Gozo Craft Centre to sample local handicrafts and cuisine.

The excursion also includes a tour of Victoria, the island’s capital, with free time for sightseeing and shopping, followed by a dinner in Rabat before the return journey to Malta.

• 30-minute ferry ride to Gozo
• Visit to UNESCO-listed Ggantija Temples
• Exploration of Marsalforn and its scenic bays
• Stop at Gozo Craft Centre for local products
• Tour of Victoria and free time for sightseeing

Since You Asked

Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

The tour can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Guests should inform the operator of any special dietary needs when booking, and the operator will work to provide suitable meal options during the tour.

Do I Need to Bring Any Specific Gear or Equipment?

The tour doesn’t require any specific gear or equipment. Travelers should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection, as the tour involves walking outdoors. Bringing a camera is recommended to capture the scenic views.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Unfortunately, the tour doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration. The fixed schedule is 10 hours long and includes transfers, guided visits, and a buffet dinner. Extending the tour would need to be arranged separately.

Can I Split the Tour Over Multiple Days?

The tour operator doesn’t offer the option to split the tour over multiple days. It’s designed as a full-day excursion from Valletta to Gozo. Extending the duration or breaking it up isn’t available based on the information provided.

How Flexible Is the Tour Schedule in Case of Weather Delays?

The tour’s schedule is fairly flexible in case of weather delays. The ferry ride and visits to outdoor sites may be rearranged, and the day’s itinerary can be adjusted to accommodate any disruptions caused by inclement weather.

The Sum Up

This Gozo and Ggantija Temples full-day excursion from Malta offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Visitors can explore the ancient Ggantija Temples, stroll along Marsalforn Bay, witness traditional craftsmanship, and enjoy the vibrant culture of Victoria and Rabat, culminating in a delightful Gozitan dinner. It’s a comprehensive and memorable adventure that showcases the unique charms of this captivating Maltese island.