Gozo Full Day visiting Ggantija Temples, Salt Pans & Dwejra

If you’re considering a day trip to Malta’s sister island, Gozo, this full-day tour offers a chance to see some of its most iconic sights without the hassle of planning each stop yourself. Offered at a reasonable $79 per person, the excursion promises a mixture of ancient ruins, stunning coastlines, and authentic Gozitan culture, all wrapped into an 8-hour package.

We find this tour particularly appealing for travelers who want a structured, informative experience that balances history, scenic views, and local craftsmanship. We love the seamless logistics—such as hotel pickup, ferry crossing, and transportation inside Gozo—and the chance to see highlights like the Ggantija Temples and the inland sea.

One possible drawback is that with a packed schedule, you might feel a bit rushed, especially if you love lingering at each site. Plus, food and drinks are not included, so grabbing snacks beforehand or bringing some is a smart move.

This tour suits those with a curiosity for ancient monuments, a love for picturesque landscapes, or anyone who prefers guided experiences to navigate unfamiliar territory. It’s especially good if you’re short on time but want to get a good taste of what Gozo has to offer.

Key Points

• Historic Marvels: The Ggantija Temples are over 5,550 years old, making them some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world.
• Scenic Coastal Views: Ride past Malta’s salt pans and marvel at Dwejra Bay’s stunning rock formations and inland sea.
• Authentic Local Culture: Visit a crafts shop to see traditional Maltese crafts and sample local foods.
• Convenient Logistics: Hotel pickups, ferry tickets, and transportation included make for a hassle-free experience.
• Guided Insight: Licensed guides in English and Russian provide context and stories that bring the sites to life.
• Value for Money: At $79, the tour offers a rundown of Gozo’s highlights, valued by many travelers for its convenience and content.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Starting the Day with the Ggantija Temples

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your hotel or nearest point, which we appreciate because it eliminates the stress of finding your way. After a smooth ferry crossing, you’re transported directly to Ggantija, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back over 5,550 years. These megalithic temples, built before Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids, are a testament to ancient engineering.

Visiting Ggantija isn’t just about seeing rocks; it’s about feeling the weight of history in every stone. Our guides often share stories about the temples’ construction and cultural significance, which adds depth to the experience. One reviewer mentioned, “The Neolithic temples were different,” highlighting how these ancient structures stand out amid modern Malta.

Riding the Trackless Train Past Salt Pans

Next, you’ll hop aboard a trackless train for a 40-minute ride along the coast, cruising past Marsalforn Bay, Qbajjar Bay, and Xwejni Bay. This is a highlight for many, as it offers a relaxed way to absorb the scenery and learn about the salt pans that have been harvesting salt for centuries. The salt pans are visually striking—flat, white salt deposits that shimmer in the sun—and provide a fascinating glimpse into traditional Maltese industry.

Several reviews praise the land train for its scenic views and informative narration, with one mentioning it was “very interesting” and “beautiful.” The salt pans, in particular, seem to leave an impression, blending natural beauty with centuries-old tradition.

Visiting a Local Crafts Shop and Tasting Malta’s Flavors

A stop at a Crafts Center gives you a chance to see local artisans at work, and many visitors appreciate the chance to purchase authentic souvenirs. The center also offers tastings of traditional Maltese foods, which can be a delightful way to connect with the island’s culinary culture.

While lunch isn’t included in the tour, some reviews note that the later meal in Victoria is quite satisfying, with options like fish, chicken, boiled vegetables, and pasta, complemented by water and wine. Travelers are advised to bring snacks if they’re hungry earlier—best to be prepared since food isn’t available until later in the afternoon.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring Dwejra Bay and the Inland Sea

One of the natural highlights of the trip is Dwejra Bay, famous for its Inland Sea—a small lagoon formed by the collapse of a cave—and the Il-ebla tal-eneral, a mushroom-shaped rock formation that looks like something out of a fantasy novel. Weather permitting, there’s an optional short boat trip to get closer to these geological wonders, which many find surprisingly scenic.

Photographers and nature lovers will enjoy the dramatic coastline and unusual formations. Several reviews describe the area as “beautiful,” with Dwejra often cited as a must-see for its striking landscape and the chance to see the famous “Azure Window” (which collapsed in 2017 but the area remains captivating).

Discovering Victoria, Gozo’s Capital

The final stop brings you to Victoria, the bustling capital of Gozo. Here, you’ll find the Cittadella, a fortified hilltop that has served as a defensive stronghold since the Bronze Age. Walking the ancient walls, you get sweeping views of the countryside and the sea, and it’s easy to imagine life here centuries ago.

The visit to Victoria is relatively short—some reviews note you only have about an hour to explore. While that gives a taste of the city’s charm, it may feel hurried for those who want to soak in the atmosphere or visit the cathedral and local shops more leisurely.

Ending the Day with Comfort and Convenience

After a full day of sightseeing, a comfortable coach ride returns you to your hotel or drop-off point. The included transportation and ferry tickets streamline what could otherwise be a complicated day of independent travel, especially for first-time visitors.

Value and Practical Tips

At $79, this tour packs in a lot—covering ancient ruins, scenic drives, local crafts, and natural wonders. Many reviews praise the guides, highlighting their knowledge and helpfulness. The inclusion of ferry tickets and transportation means you pay a premium over self-guided options but gain a lot of convenience and expert insight.

One important note is that food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or planning a late lunch is wise. Also, some walking is involved, and the tour isn’t suited for those with mobility impairments. Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking around the Cittadella and at the temples.

The tour runs approximately 8 hours—and depending on your starting time—this allows enough time to enjoy each sight without feeling overly rushed. But, as some reviewers mention, the schedule can be fast-paced, especially if you prefer to linger at each location.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers with a curiosity for history, natural beauty, and local culture. It’s particularly appealing if you prefer guided tours that handle logistics and provide context through knowledgeable guides. It’s great for those who want a snapshot of Gozo’s highlights and are comfortable with a busy day.

If you’re a slow traveler or want to explore at your own pace, you might find this tour a bit quick. However, for a well-organized introduction to the island, it hits a good balance of sightseeing and comfort. People who appreciate scenic drives, historic sites, and authentic local crafts will find plenty to enjoy here.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up from your hotel or the nearest point on Malta, making it convenient to start your day.

How long is the ferry crossing?
The ferry crossing is included and is part of the smooth logistics, although the exact duration isn’t specified. It’s typically a quick, scenic ride between Malta and Gozo.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes are essential because some walking is involved. It’s also smart to bring snacks or water since food isn’t included until the late afternoon.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
Yes, guides speak both English and Russian, providing clear narration and stories at each stop.

How much free time will I have in Victoria?
Expect about an hour in Victoria, which is enough to see the Cittadella and take some photos, but not enough for a thorough exploration. Some reviews suggest it’s a nice time for a walk along the city walls.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
Unfortunately, no. The tour involves some walking and uneven surfaces, making it unsuitable for those with mobility impairments.

Final Thoughts

This Gozo full-day tour offers a balanced mix of history, natural beauty, and authentic Maltese culture, all wrapped in a well-organized package. The highlights—such as the Ggantija Temples, the scenic salt pans, and the dramatic Dwejra coastline—are genuinely memorable. The guided aspect enhances the experience, providing context that brings the sites alive.

While the schedule can be tight and food isn’t included, the value for money is clear. It’s a smart choice for first-time visitors who want to see the key sights without the stress of planning and driving themselves. Lovers of history, scenery, and local crafts will find plenty to enjoy.

If you’re okay with a busy day and want a comprehensive snapshot of Gozo in one go, this tour fits the bill nicely. It’s perfect for those looking for convenience, expert insight, and a taste of everything this charming island has to offer.

Enjoy your trip to Malta and Gozo. With its blend of ancient temples, rugged coastlines, and lively towns, the experience will leave you with lasting memories—and perhaps a few souvenirs from the crafts shop!

You can check availability for your dates here: