Top 10 Things to Do in Gozo: A Family Guide to Malta’s Sister Island
Just so you know: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a booking or purchase, I may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you.
Are you planning a trip to Malta and wondering whether to spend much time on the island of Gozo? Then read on for my top things to do in Gozo: A family guide to Malta’s sister island.
We spent a week in Gozo, an island that is in my opinion a much more laid back and relaxed version of its big sister, Malta. It feels like you’re stepping back in time for a more traditional and peaceful experience. It also has fewer tourists which is perfect for those seeking a quiet escape.
Seven days might sound like loads of time on such a small island, but trust me, we barely scratched the surface. Gozo may be small, but it’s brimming with rugged beauty, cultural gems, and secret slices of paradise. Plus, we were traveling with a toddler, so we embraced the slow, scenic route.
If you’re still planning your trip, start with our Gozo Travel Guide, which covers how to get there, where to stay, and how to plan your time on the island.
1. Hondoq ir-Rummien Bay – Our Local Slice of Heaven
Tucked just below the village of Qala, Hondoq became our beach. Crystal clear waters and rocky platforms perfect for jumping in.
We tried to get there early because parking’s a bit of a nightmare later on. You can walk it from Qala, but we didn’t fancy pushing a pram down that hill!
This beach is pebble-heavy, so water shoes are a must.
There’s a little beach bar that serves up cold drinks and local snacks (always a yes to pastizzi and Cisk) and shaded tables if you need a break from the sun. You can rent kayaks, jet skis, canoes, and sunbeds. Hondoq really does have everything you need for a relaxed day by the sea. You can read my guide to Gozo’s beautiful beaches here.
👉 Check Comino and Blue Lagoon Guided Kayaking Adventure from Hondoq Bay on GetYourGuide
👉 Scuba diving from beginners to experienced divers
2. Victoria (Ir-Rabat) – Gozo’s Beating Heart
In the middle of the island sits Victoria, Gozo’s capital. Officially named after Queen Victoria during her Jubilee (Malta’s British chapter still evident), most locals still call it by its original name, Ir-Rabat.
Wandering the cobbled lanes of Victoria feels like stepping into another era. With its coloured buildings, tiny balconies draped in flowers, sun dappled piazzas, and cafés where time slows down over a cappuccino.
Victoria is also incredibly practical, full of shops, bakeries, banks, and supermarkets, but somehow still impossibly charming. And since it’s at the heart of Gozo, every road seems to lead here making it easy to both drive and reach by bus.
👉 Prefer a guided tour? Check out this Victoria walking tour with GetYourGuide
👉 Prefer to drive? Check out car hire on DiscoverCars
3. The Blue Lagoon – Caribbean Vibes, Comino Style
We booked a half day boat trip and it was unreal. A little cruise around Comino and a stop at the famous Blue Lagoon.
The water is impossibly clear, a thousand shades of blue, and the cliffs surrounding the lagoon buzz with fearless cliff divers (which we watched from the safety of our boat!). It was such a memorable experience and a highlight of our trip.
4. The Citadel – History on a Hilltop
Rising above Victoria like a crown is the Citadel, Gozo’s ancient fortress and one of the island’s most iconic sights. It’s visible from just about everywhere, and once you’re standing atop its walls, you’ll understand why.
Built during the Bronze Age and shaped over centuries by the Romans, Phoenicians, and Knights of St. John, the Citadel once held a third of Gozo’s population. These days, it’s more peaceful, home to fewer than ten residents, but still full of life.
Explore the cathedral, the old prison, the museums, or just walk the walls and take in panoramic views of the entire island. It’s breathtaking.
👉 Check entrance tickets for the Citadel on Viator
👉 Full day tour of Gozo temples and Citadel on GetYourGuide
5. Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary – A Place of Peace and Wonder
Not far from the village of Gharb sits one of Gozo’s most photogenic landmarks: the Basilica of Ta’ Pinu. This Roman Catholic shrine, built between 1920 and 1931, is absolutely stunning.
Outside, intricate mosaic tiles and marble statues set against an open sky. Inside was so peaceful it gives you goosebumps. Whether you’re spiritual or simply curious, this place is something special.
👉 Check this Gozo tour from Malta, including Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary
6. Quad Biking – One for Next Time
We didn’t manage it this trip (one year old in tow), but quad biking round Gozo looks like an absolute scream. You can book guided tours, zip past cliffs, secret beaches, valleys, all that good stuff.
Some of the tours include lunch or swim stops too. Definitely one for the list when our little one’s older and we can sneak a couple of hours away.
👉 Check out Quad biking on GetYourGuide
👉 Check out quad biking on Viator
7. The Inland Sea – A Hidden Water World
Imagine a tranquil saltwater lagoon tucked behind a dramatic cliff, linked to the open Mediterranean through a narrow rock tunnel. That’s the Inland Sea, and it’s straight out of a fantasy novel.
You’ll find small boats offering rides through the arch and into the open sea, past sea caves and the remains of the famed Azure Window. It’s also a top spot for divers and snorkelers.
Even if you don’t hop on a boat, it’s still worth a visit.
8. Ramla Bay – Red Sands and Family Swims
If you’re after a sandy beach, Ramla Bay’s the one. The sand’s got this red tint to it, really unique, and the sea’s nice and shallow, which was ideal for our little one to splash about. I had had such a lovely time splashing and paddling with my daughter under the warm July sun.
Loads of families were there, but it didn’t feel packed. Just a nice, buzzing atmosphere. There’s a beach café, sunbeds to rent, and even little rinse off taps by the boardwalk. A lifesaver when you’ve got a toddler who’s somehow managed to get sand in every crevice.
9. Ta’ Dbiegi Crafts Village – Handmade Treasures
If you fancy a break from the beach, head over to Gharb and check out Ta’ Dbiegi Crafts Village. It’s not your typical souvenir stop, this is where tradition and creativity live side by side. It’s full of local artisans making beautiful stuff, glass blowing, pottery, lace, jewellery. All sorts.
We picked up a glass cat for my aunt (she’s cat mad), and it’s such a nice feeling knowing it was handmade right there. A lovely way to support locals and come home with something special.
10. Xlendi Bay – A bit of everything
Xlendi Bay really has it all. This picturesque bay features a mix of sandy and pebbly beaches with shallow, calm waters, ideal for families. The surrounding rocky coastline is a paradise for snorkelers and divers.
Beyond the beach, you’ll find a charming village with a selection of waterfront restaurants and a traditional watchtower that adds to the area’s historic charm. Whether you’re after a chilled beach day, a bit of underwater adventure, a scenic hike, or a sunset dinner with breathtaking views, Xlendi delivers.
Final Thoughts
Gozo surprised us. It’s raw and real, quieter than Malta, but full of stories and soul. Whether you’re snorkeling in Hondoq, drifting in the Blue Lagoon, or wandering through ancient streets with a gelato in hand, it’s impossible not to fall a little in love. If you’re still unsure, you can check our Is Gozo worth visiting guide. If you’re in the planning phase, check our Gozo Travel Guide.
Travelling with a one-year-old isn’t always easy, but Gozo made it feel doable. Safe, friendly, and made for a slower pace. We’ll definitely be back, with bigger plans, bigger appetites, and maybe next time… a go on a quad bike.
More Gozo related blog posts:
Best Beaches in Gozo: Family-Friendly Guide
Best Beaches in Gozo: Family-Friendly Guide Just so you know: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a booking or purchase, I may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you. Gozo may be Malta’s quieter little sister, but when it comes to beaches, it really shines. From…
How to get from Malta to Gozo – Ferry Options, Prices & Travel Tips
How to get from Malta to Gozo – Ferry Options, Prices & Travel Tips Just so you know: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a booking or purchase, I may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you. If you’re flying into Malta and planning to visit…
A week in Gozo: Is it worth visiting & what to expect
A week in Gozo: Is it worth visiting & what to expect Just so you know: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a booking or purchase, I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Planning a trip to Malta and wondering whether Gozo is worth more…