St Julian’s: Gozo Full-Day Opentop Bus and Comino Caves

Discovering Malta’s Neighboring Islands: An In-Depth Look at the Gozo and Comino Full-Day Tour

If you’re visiting Malta and craving a day away from the bustling streets of St. Julian’s, this full-day tour of Gozo and Comino offers a well-rounded taste of the islands’ historic charm and natural beauty. While we haven’t personally hopped on this specific tour, detailed reviews and the itinerary reveal a trip packed with scenic drives, cultural sites, and memorable boat rides.

What we particularly like about this experience is the combination of comfortable transport—a double-decker bus with top-deck views—and immersive visits to iconic landmarks like the Ggantija Temples and Santa Maria Caves. Plus, the inclusion of multiple boat rides means you get a different perspective of the coastlines, not just the land-based sightseeing.

A potential consideration is the full-day duration, which could be a long stretch, especially if you’re not a fan of boat rides or walking tours. But for those with a sense of adventure and curiosity about Malta’s lesser-known spots, this tour hits many high points.

This experience suits travelers who love historic sites, scenic drives, and want a full picture of Gozo’s countryside and Comino’s coves in just one day. It’s especially good for those who prefer guided visits that handle logistics—no need to worry about ferry schedules or transport details.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering historic sites, scenic vistas, and natural caves
• Multiple boat rides enhance the experience from different angles
• Comfortable open-top bus provides great views and local insight
• Includes free time for swimming and exploring at your own pace
• Ideal for curious travelers keen on combining history, nature, and transport
• Value at $82 per person considering transport, guided tours, and multiple activities

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Islands: What to Expect on This Tour

This full-day adventure offers a blend of land and sea experiences tailored to give you a taste of Malta’s neighboring islands without the need for separate bookings. It’s designed to maximize your time and minimize hassle, making it a convenient way to see some of Malta’s most loved spots.

Start at Sun & Fun Water Sports in St. Julian’s

Your day begins at a familiar starting point near the lively St. Georges Bay, a spot easily accessible and known for its watersports. From here, you’ll take a short boat ride to Gozo, which instantly transports you to a different vibe—quieter, greener, and dotted with historical sites. This 40-minute boat trip is a highlight, offering views of rugged coastlines, St. Paul’s Islands, and a chance to feel the wind on your face.

The Double-Decker Bus Tour of Gozo

Once on Gozitan soil, you’ll hop aboard a comfortable open-top double-decker bus—a practical touch that allows unobstructed views of the countryside and coast. This format is especially appealing for travelers who want to see a lot without walking too much, and the top deck offers some of the best scenery as you cruise around.

Victoria and the Citadel are a major stop. The historic fortress provides panoramic views that stretch across the island—perfect for photo ops and understanding the strategic importance of this medieval city. The guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making the history more engaging.

Next, the Ta Pinu Basilica offers a moment of tranquility and admiration of architecture—its grandeur and spiritual significance make it a must-see. We loved the way the basilica’s massive structure rises above the landscape, acting as both a religious site and a scenic landmark.

The Ggantija Temples are an impressive highlight—they predate the Egyptian pyramids, dating back to around 3600 BC. The ancient stone circles are a testament to Malta’s early inhabitants and give insight into prehistoric life. As one reviewer noted, “It’s incredible to stand in the shadow of these ancient structures and realize they’re over 5,000 years old.”

The bus tour also includes stops like Fontana Cottage, where you can experience Gozitan rural charm—a peaceful spot with rustic beauty, perfect for a quick break and photos.

Santa Maria Caves on Comino

After the bus tour, you reboard the speedboat for a 30-minute cruise to Comino’s Santa Maria Caves. These caves are celebrated for their crystal-clear waters and dramatic rock formations—a photographer’s paradise. You’ll cruise past rocky arches and hidden coves, seeing the caves from the boat’s perspective, which adds a sense of adventure and discovery.

Many reviews mention the stunning scenery here—some even say it’s the highlight of the day. The caves are perfect for a quick swim or photo session, but remember that access is by boat only. If you’re prone to seasickness, it’s wise to take precautions—this is important, especially since the boat rides are part of the experience.

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Return and Reflection

After exploring the caves, the tour concludes with your return to the starting point, giving you a full, well-rounded day of history, nature, and scenic views. The whole experience lasts about six hours, making it a manageable day trip that leaves plenty of time for your own exploration afterward.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

For $82, you get a lot of rich experiences—boat rides, guided land tours, and visits to major sites. The inclusion of round-trip transport and free time for swimming enhances the value. The guided element ensures you don’t miss key details, and the scenic drives highlight the best of Gozitan landscapes.

While meals and hotel transfers aren’t included, the tour’s structure and visuals make it a worthwhile investment for those who want an organized, scenic, and educational day. Plus, the flexible booking policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance—adds travel peace of mind.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour of Gozo and Comino manages to combine history, natural beauty, and easy logistics into a single package—perfect for curious travelers eager to see Malta’s lesser-known islands without the stress of planning every detail. The mix of guided visits, scenic drives, and boat rides gives a well-rounded experience that balances education and leisure.

It’s especially suited for those who enjoy historic landmarks, beautiful vistas, and sea adventures. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find the balance of comfort and discovery satisfying. Keep in mind that it’s a long day, so come prepared with comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.

If you value knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and efficient logistics, this tour offers a solid way to deepen your appreciation of Malta’s diverse island landscape.

FAQs

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, round-trip transportation by speedboat and double-decker bus is included, covering all major stops on the itinerary.

What are the main stops on the tour?
You visit Victoria’s Citadel, Ta Pinu Basilica, Ggantija Temples, Fontana Cottage, and the Santa Maria Caves.

Is there free time for swimming?
Yes, the tour offers free time for swimming, especially during or after the boat rides around Comino.

How long is each boat ride?
The boat cruise from Malta to Gozo lasts approximately 40 minutes, and the trip to Santa Maria Caves on Comino lasts around 30 minutes.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It’s not specifically designed for wheelchair users or those with back problems, and some walking is involved at the stops.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, sunscreen, and water are recommended.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or eat beforehand.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While suitable for most, very young children or those sensitive to boat rides should consider their comfort with seasickness.

How large are the tour groups?
The data doesn’t specify group size, but guided tours typically aim for manageable numbers to ensure a personal experience.

This full-day tour offers a smart combination of scenic beauty, historic sites, and sea adventures—an excellent way to see Malta’s nearby islands with comfort and insight. Whether it’s your first trip or your tenth, the vibrant landscapes and ancient ruins will leave you with plenty of memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: