Open today: 9.00 am - 5.00 pm
For such a small island, Gozo packs in a wide variety of experiences and attractions. Mountain biking, kayaking and clifftop hiking are all opportunities for active visitors, while Gozo's food and wine scene focuses strongly on fresh local produce and briny-fresh seafood.
Gozo is the second largest island of
the Maltese Archipelago that consists of three islands known as Gozo, Comino
and mainland Malta. As an island it is very rural and simple and life
moves at a leisurely pace. Its culture and way of life is firmly rooted in
fishing and agriculture. Tomatoes, potatoes, onions, melons, grapes, figs,
oranges, and tangerines are the island’s prime agricultural produce.
The island is known for having some
of the Mediterranean’s best snorkelling and scuba diving sites, but it is also
a place of myth and legend, believed to be the Calypso isle of Homer’s Odyssey.
The countryside of the island is
dotted with old farmhouses, baroque temples, prehistoric temples and other
historic sites. Its commercial centre is Victoria which, despite its status,
has a sleepy 17th century feel. Most of the historical buildings are
inside the Citadel, the ancient fortified part of the town.
You can reach Gozo from Malta’s Grand
Harbour by ferry in about 20 minutes. A bridge that was to connect Gozo and
Malta was not completed due to the protests of Gozo’s inhabitants who are
fiercely protective over their identity.
Gozo has a warm climate with sunny
days and pleasant temperatures all year round. The day time temperatures during
the winter average at 16°C. The hottest time of year is between July and
September when temperatures are generally around 30°C.
The average monthly temperatures are:
°C |
Jan |
Feb |
Mar |
Apr |
May |
Jun |
Jul |
Aug |
Sep |
Oct |
Nov |
Dec |
Day |
15 |
15 |
16 |
19 |
23 |
27 |
30 |
30 |
27 |
24 |
20 |
17 |
Night |
9 |
9 |
10 |
12 |
15 |
19 |
21 |
22 |
20 |
17 |
14 |
11 |
Although a
small island, there is a reasonable about of shopping to be done.
In Victoria
there is a large shopping mall, Arcadia Commercial Centre as well as other
smaller shops. In the other villages on the island you will find various small
outlets selling traditional Gozo products.
The best
buys are honey, lace, glass, jackets/jumpers and pottery.
The Stone Crab Restaurant
Paradise Bar and Restaurant
Il-Panzier Restaurant
Mobydick Xlendi Complex & Restaurant
Gozo is not
a major hot spot for clubs and bars. Much of the entertainment comes from
sitting in restaurants and watching the world go by. However there are a few
clubs and bars in the capital Victoria and Xlendi.
One of the
most famous entertainment spots is La Grotta, an outdoor club in Xlendi.
Gozo is
such a small island you can easily manage to explore it all during your stay.
There are plenty of opportunities for sun bathing, swimming, snorkelling,
sailing and fishing. It is a walker’s paradise where you can take in the
stunning scenery and intoxicating culture.
However, if
you want to spread your wings you can always hop on the ferry and within 20
minutes you’ll be on Malta and ready to explore the many sights and wonders of
the main island.
The tap
water is perfectly safe to drink on Gozo.
There is no
fear in walking about at night and Gozo projects a tangible sense of safety and
security. The people of this island take pride in the absolute absence of
muggings and the almost non-existence of theft.