Sliema: Gozo Full Day with Opentop Bus and Comino Caves

Exploring Malta’s neighboring islands of Gozo and Comino offers a taste of authentic Mediterranean charm, ancient history, and stunning scenery. This particular tour, priced at around $82 per person, promises a full day packed with varied experiences—from boat rides to bus tours to exploring caves—all conveniently arranged from Sliema.

What makes this outing stand out? We’re fans of how it combines scenic transport with cultural highlights that don’t just scratch the surface. The boat rides offer spectacular views of the coastlines and crystal waters, and the guided bus tour provides rich context about the islands’ historic sites. On the downside, keep in mind that it’s a long day with some moderate walking involved, and not every visit is a private or personalized experience.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxing moments. If you’re after a comprehensive taste of Gozo and Comino without the hassles of planning each detail, this could be a great fit. However, those with mobility challenges or a preference for more leisurely exploring might want a different option.

Key Points

• Highlights: Visits to Victoria, Ta’ Pinu Basilica, Ggantija Temples, and Santa Maria Caves.
• Travel Mode: Scenic boat rides and open-air bus tour for immersive views.
• Duration: About 6.5 hours, perfect for a full day of exploration.
• Value: Combines transportation, sightseeing, and unique cave visits for a reasonable price.
• Who it’s for: Active travelers eager to see multiple sights in a day, lovers of scenic boat rides.
• Considerations: Long hours, some walking, not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Early Departure

The tour begins at Chequers Bar in Sliema, a familiar spot for many travelers. From here, you’ll head to the port for your 40-minute speedboat ride to Gozo. The boat is a highlight in itself—offering sweeping views of Malta’s rugged coastline and the famous St. Paul’s Islands. Reviews often mention how the boat ride is smooth and scenic, setting a relaxed tone for the day.

Arriving in Gozo: The Double-Decker Bus Experience

Upon reaching Gozo, you’ll switch to a comfortable open-top double-decker bus. This is where you get the chance to see the island’s diverse landscapes from a higher vantage point. The bus stops at several key sites:

• Victoria: The medieval capital, with its impressive Citadel offering panoramic views that are well worth the climb.
• Ta’ Pinu Basilica: An iconic religious site, admired not only for its spiritual significance but also for its architecture and the breathtaking views surrounding it.
• Ggantija Temples: These neolithic structures are older than the pyramids, providing a direct link to ancient Malta’s past.
• Fontana Cottage: A charming rustic stop that offers a glimpse into the island’s countryside.

According to reviews, visitors love the way this bus tour combines informative commentary with scenic stops, making it more engaging than just a drive-by sightseeing. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the guide shared stories about the Ggantija Temples—it made history come alive.”

Free Time and Sightseeing

The tour allocates time at each stop for photos and brief explorations. While some sites are more about visual awe—like the temples and the views from the Citadel—others are more about learning and atmosphere. This mix allows travelers to tailor their experience based on interest.

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The Comino Caves and Boat Ride

After the bus tour, you’ll head back to the port for your second boat ride, this time to the island of Comino. The highlight here is visiting the Santa Maria Caves—a series of caves known for their crystal-clear waters and dramatic rock formations.

You’ll be able to explore these caves by boat, getting up close to see their natural beauty from a unique perspective. Multiple reviews mention how beautiful the caves are, with one traveler noting, “The caves are even more stunning in person—crystal waters and interesting shapes in the rocks.” The boat ride around Comino also offers relaxed photo opportunities, making it a favorite part of the day.

Returning to Sliema

The tour concludes back at Sun & Fun Water Sports in Sliema after a total of about 6.5 hours. The timing makes it a full but manageable day, especially if you’re based in Malta’s northern or central areas.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

The use of speedboats and double-decker buses makes for a comfortable and engaging experience. The boats are quick and provide excellent photo ops, while the buses offer air-conditioned comfort and informative commentary in English.

Most travelers describe the group size as moderate, and the driver as friendly and informative. The itinerary is well-paced, though some reviews suggest that the long boat rides and walking at sites can be tiring if you’re not used to active sightseeing.

What Travelers Say

One review praised the scenery and variety, stating, “The boat trips give stunning views that make the entire trip worthwhile.” Another appreciated the organized nature: “It’s a full-day but well-structured, so you see a lot without feeling rushed.”

A few points of concern include the lack of meals or drinks included, so packing water and snacks is advised. Also, some noted that entrance fees aren’t covered, but that allows flexibility depending on how much time you want at each site.

Analyzing the Price and Value

At $82, this tour offers a comprehensive package—transportation, guided bus tour, and access to natural caves. While it doesn’t include meals or entrance fees, the overall value comes from the convenience of having multiple highlights arranged for you, saving the hassle and costs of organizing each part independently.

For travelers who prefer a hassle-free day, this tour bundles the essentials and delivers a rich experience of Malta’s nearby islands. It’s especially suitable when your time is limited but you want to see the highlights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience fits active travelers comfortable with some walking and boat rides. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a full day of sightseeing that visits historic sites, natural caves, and scenic vistas all in one go.

It’s less suited for those who prefer a leisurely pace, have mobility issues, or want to include meals and entrance fees in their package. If you’re traveling with children under five or have health concerns, check with the provider—they specify some restrictions related to age and health.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a well-rounded view of Gozitan and Comino scenery and history for a reasonable price. The boat rides alone are worth the price, providing memorable views of Malta’s coastlines and caves. The bus tour adds a layer of context and convenience, allowing travelers to learn while enjoying the sights.

If you’re someone who loves active sightseeing, appreciates stunning vistas, and wants a full-day adventure without the hassle of planning, this tour will serve you well.

However, for those seeking a more relaxed experience or with mobility limitations, consider alternatives or customizing your day to minimize walking.

FAQ

What is the starting point of the tour?
It begins at Chequers Bar in Sliema, where you’ll meet your guide and board the boat.

How long is the boat ride to Gozo?
The initial speedboat ride lasts about 40 minutes, offering scenic views of the coast and St. Paul’s Islands.

Are the Santa Maria Caves visited by boat?
Yes, the caves are explored by boat, giving you a close-up view of their striking rock formations and waters.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5 years old, and some activities may not be suitable for very young kids.

Is there a lunch included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so you may want to bring snacks and water.

Do I need to pay entrance fees to the sites?
Entrance fees are not covered, so you can decide whether to explore sites further on your own.

How long is the overall tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6.5 hours, making it a full but manageable day.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Not particularly—there’s walking involved at several sites, and the boat rides may be challenging for some.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, camera, and plenty of water are recommended.

What is the group size?
The group size is moderate, allowing for a more personal experience, but specifics aren’t provided.

Final Verdict

This tour provides a balanced and engaging way to explore Malta’s nearby islands, especially for those who love scenic boat rides combined with historical sights. It’s a great value for a full day of adventure, offering a taste of Gozitan charm and natural beauty. Whether it’s your first trip to Malta or a repeat visit, it’s a solid choice for an active, scenic day out that captures the essence of these enchanting islands.

You can check availability for your dates here: