Malta, Gozo Itinerary – 7 Days

Where else but in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea might you find such a little, gorgeous island?  Will a week be sufficient? Due to its compact size, Malta allows visitors to maximize their sightseeing potential.
There are three islands to choose from, but You will only have time to explore two of them—Malta and Gozo—in just seven days. If You go in the off-season, however, You may also have time to visit Comino. Don’t waste Your money and time staying in different places if you’re traveling just for a week, do it only if it’s Your comfy home on wheels and you’re staying there.

To give you an idea of how effective this can be, consider the following: two nights at one hotel on the island of Gozo, remaining nights in one hotel on the Maltese mainland, and one day of exploration in Comino without lodging.
If you’re flying and hiring a car at the airport, Gozo as a first destination will be more convenient, but for the following days, explore Malta’s mainland. The streets are mostly tiny in Malta so be prepared for that.

Overview

8 Days
Malta
Luqa
Luqa

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Click the tab in the top left-hand corner of the map to view the layers (pins on maps with places such as swimming spots and beaches, parking, restaurants, towns, ticket offices, etc.)
You can click the check marks to hide or show layers. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information about each pinned point.
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Malta, Gozo – itinerary

Day 1: Gozo (Ta Cenc Cliffs, Citadel, and Victoria Town)
Day 2: Gozo’s main attractions
Day 3: Malta main island (Popeye Village, Malta National Aquarium)
Day 4: Valletta
Day 5: St. Peter’s pool, Blue Grotto, Riviera Beach
Day 6: Foresta 2000 Nature Reserve, Paradise Bay, Golden Bay
Day 7: Mdina and Rabat

Highlights


Day 1

Summary: The first full day provides a variety of activities, primarily focused on getting outside and taking in the beautiful scenery of Gozo Island, as well as doing some sightseeing by car. First of all, take the ferry from Cirkewwa to Mgarr, then head to Gozo Island.

Sights and activities:

Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs

More than 150 meters above sea level, Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs are Gozo’s tallest cliffs. There is a wide variety of routes to explore, some of which are mild and others of which could be rather challenging.

The cliffs are a historically and biologically rich place, with the ruins of incredible buildings and fossils having been discovered. Thousands of species of birds stop off at the cliffs throughout the migration.

Citadel and Victoria

Rabat, commonly known as Victoria, is the center of Gozo. The Citadel dominates the Island’s skyline, towering dramatically above the surrounding landscape, making it visible from practically anywhere on the island.
Although the Gozo Citadel has its origins in the late Middle Ages, the hill on which it stands has been inhabited since Neolithic times. The Citadel was a safe haven from Saracen raids and Barbary corsairs for hundreds of years.


Day 2

Summary: To make the most of this beautiful day, we’re hitting the road and changing our surroundings once again—true adventure awaits.

Sights and activities:

Kantra Valley and Xlendi Bay

You can’t help but notice the small Xlendi Bay and Kantra Valley as you approach the
Tower. Though popular for scuba diving during the summer months, this area is equally
enjoyable for hiking and exploring during the rest of the year because of its network of
winding trails and landscapes.

Xlendi Tower and old salt pans

Take a walk through Kantra Valley and all the little trails with views. You will spot the interesting Xlendi tower and find some old salt pans there too.

The tower is one of the Lascaris towers and dates to 1650; it is currently undergoing restoration.

It is the oldest of the four surviving watchtowers on Gozo. The earlier Garzes and Marsalforn towers were destroyed in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Enjoy the little trails and take in the views. A trail may be a little extreme in some spots,
so wear proper shoes and clothes.

Azure Window complex

Off the coast of Malta is the island of Gozo, which is home to a natural arch known as
the Azure Window (or the Dwejra Window). Until its collapse in stormy weather on
March 8, 2017, the limestone feature in Dwejra Bay, near the Inland Sea and Fungus
Rock, was one of the island’s biggest tourist attractions. Many films and television
shows from around the world have featured the arch and other local landmarks. If you Google – Azure window, you will find some amazing photos of it.
But it’s still a really good place to visit and see

Inland Sea

Located on the island of Gozo, the Inland Sea (sometimes called “Dwejra”) is a seawater lagoon that connects to the Mediterranean Sea through a thin natural arch.
Taking a boat tour through the arch into the open sea is a thrilling experience, and though it may seem pricey, it’s worth it because the guides are entertaining and
informative. You’ll learn that there’s always something to look at, and they’ll encourage you to use your imagination to really appreciate the experience.

Wied il-Għasri and its Tiny Secluded Bay

Stop by Wied il-Ghasri and the surrounding area on the way back – you’ll be pleasantly surprised by what you find there.
The Lower Coralline Limestone and the underlying Globerigerina Limestone form the cliffs of the L-Gasri Valley, creating a deep gorge-like valley.
The Mediterranean Sea is accessible for a refreshing swim at the end of the valley, which features a small, quiet pebbly bay thanks to the valley’s twisting way to the open sea.
Steps have been carved onto the cliffside so that you may reach the tiny pebbly beach below, despite appearances to the contrary. Keep your camera handy since you’ll want to capture the breathtaking scenery as you make your way down the stairs.

Ramla Beach

Watch the sun go down at Ramla Beach before returning to your hotel.
That’s the nicest beach on Gozo, and maybe even all of Malta. Because of its expansive red sands, the locals have named it “Ramla il-amra,” or “the Red Sandy Beach.” In Ramla, you can go swimming, snorkeling, or just bask in the sun.
Although there are a few eateries and a stall located slightly out from the shore, the area immediately surrounding the beach remains charmingly unspoiled. In this protected area, the valley that drops down to the bay is lush and verdant, and the sand dunes are safe from erosion. When viewed from the surrounding peaks, the valley takes on the appearance of a quilt because of the farmers’ terraced walls.


Day 3

Summary: The plan for today is to return to the Maltese main island, but there are some sights worth seeing along the way.

Sights and activities:

Popeye Village

Popeye Village is a must-see for anybody visiting Malta; even if you don’t want to explore the village itself, parking high up on a nearby cliff will provide you with a stunning panorama of the area below.
Popeye Village, also called Sweethaven Village, is a small amusement park made up of a collection of quaint but rundown wooden structures that were originally constructed as a film set. Anchor Bay is around 3 kilometers from the center of Melliea, Malta.
It was constructed as a set for the 1980 live-action musical picture Popeye, starring Robin Williams and Shelley Duvall, and was produced by Paramount Pictures and Walt Disney Productions. It serves as a public beach and outdoor museum.

Malta National Aquarium

You’re going by Buggiba where stands Malta’s National Aquarium in St. Paul’s Bay. The Malta National Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the Maltese Islands.

More than 175 species of fish, mollusks, reptiles, and insects call it home. And it will be entertaining for all ages.


Day 4

Summary: As first and must-have stop is Valletta, the historic heart of Malta. This day is all about history and city views. But first You have to take a ferry from Gzira if You’re staying there or somewhere nearby.
Spend the day exploring Valletta, because there is so much to see.

Sights and activities:

Valletta, the Historic Heart of Malta

Despite its small size, Malta’s capital, Valletta, has been recognized as one of the
world’s most concentrated historic districts by UNESCO. This is evidenced by the beautiful buildings and ancient fortifications from the 16th century that can be found within Valletta’s walls. Time spent wandering the Grand Harbour’s winding alleys and busy side streets will be time well spent. The Malta Experience should be the first stop on any first-time visitor’s itinerary. It gives you a great overview of Malta and its capital city in about half an hour. It’s a primer on the past and present of a place you have yet
to visit.
Do not miss these places – Valletta City Gate, Lower Barrakka Gardens, Upper Barrakka Gardens, Triton Fountain, and The Valletta Waterfront.


Day 5

Summary: Experiences, exploration, and the great outdoors are the order of the day. As you go, you will no doubt take in some breathtaking scenery.

Sights and activities:

St. Peter’s Pool

St. Peter’s Pool, in Marsaxlokk on the tip of Delimara Point in the southwest of Malta, is one of the most magnificent and gorgeous natural swimming pools in Malta.

Blue Grotto

The Blue Grotto, located in Southeastern Malta, is a famous (not to mention mandatory) tourist destination because of its stunning sea caves. The caves are a sight to behold, especially on days when the sun is shining and reflecting off the beach-like bottom.
Tourists from all over the world take boat journeys to this popular spot to check out the breathtaking grotto (which rarely gets crowded, despite the big numbers). It also has crystal-clear, deep waters that attract swimmers, snorkelers, and divers.
That’s not all, though. Talk to the man with the falcons from Sharp Sight Falconry if you see him, and if you get the chance, hold one in your hand.

Riviera Beach

Take a stroll through Gaia Peace Grove and enjoy the sunset over Riviera Beach. Gaia Peace Grove- Plants were first introduced to the area between Golden Bay and Ghajn Tuffieha Bay in 2003, and the area is now protected as a Natura 2000 Site. Those who have truly made a difference in society are honored in this wonderful and unusual place.

Long stairs lead down to the sand at Riviera Bay, also known as Ghajn Tuffieha. A natural park occupies the hillside behind the beach, providing a year-round, undisturbed view of the countryside. Rough waves and golden beach offer a welcome respite from city life.
The past of Riviera Bay is just as impressive. A historic defense tower, constructed in the mid-1600s and utilized as a lookout all the way through World War II, can be seen perched on top of the rocks. One of the seven towers constructed by Grand Master Giovanni Paolo Lascaris of the Knights Hospitaller is the Ghajn Tuffieha Tower. It welcomes guests every day of the week. Ghajn Tuffieha Roman Baths, which once stood here, have also been excavated. Several rooms, a latrine, and a corridor with small rooms that may have served as changing rooms or beds have been uncovered at the site.
Riviera Bay offers the ideal setting to watch sunsets.


Day 6

Summary: The day will consist of a short hike and a relaxing evening, just like the previous days.

Sights and activities:

Foresta 2000 Nature Reserve

Foresta 2000 is a protected area in Malta that has been replanted with Mediterranean hardwood forests. The location, which spans virtually from coast to coast and overlooks G’adira Bay, is home to a wide variety of species and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding valley.
The forest is a mosaic of habitat types that include steppe, woodland, garrigue, and maquis, all of which are home to many species of birds, insects, animals, reptiles, and amphibians. Visitors seeking an authentic Mediterranean experience will find a wealth of opportunities in this stunningly diverse ecology.

Paradise Bay

A great tiny beach, with strong waves and beautiful scenery. To relax, one need only
sit on a rock and take in the air…

Golden Bay

Explore the area on foot; there are several trails that will lead you to breathtaking views; End your day with a sunset in Golden Bay.
Beautiful red sands, crystal clear water, and gorgeous sceneries make this swimming site a pleasure to behold. The beach is endowed with a large length of smooth golden sand, leaving one spoiled for choice when deciding where to sit, and is framed by gorgeous golden dunes.


Day 7

Summary: Final day to explore Malta, take in one last taste of history and culture, and watch the sunset over the Mediterranean…

Sights and activities:

Mdina

A city where you can’t get by car, You’ll have to walk there leaving Your car outside the Mdina Gate.
With its unique blend of medieval and baroque architecture, Mdina is one of the best-preserved old-walled cities in Europe.
The town serves as a market for the extensive farming region surrounding it. Tourists flock there to see the Roman Villa (Domus Romana), the catacombs, St. Paul’s Grotto, and the many beautiful churches and monasteries in the area.

The Mdina Dungeons Museum

This creepy and scary place will be approximately 30 minutes of the horror of the true history…

Just inside the main entrance gate to Mdina, on the right, are the first set of stairs down into the dungeons beneath the Magisterial Vilhena Palace. The evil side of Maltese history is brought to life in this network of underground passages, rooms, and cells.

You’ll find scenes and personalities from the ancient past recreated with surprising realism, revealing stories often too dramatic to believe, ranging from the Romans to the Arabs to the Knights and even Napoleon.

As you explore at your own leisure, you’ll come across drama, mystery, and even horror from long-lost times, all while immersed in the genuine ambiance of a Medieval dungeon.

St. Paul’s Catacombs

Walking through graveyards seemingly without end is unusual and intriguing, although a little disturbing.

St. Paul’s Catacombs, a burial place used during the Punic, Roman, and Byzantine centuries, is the oldest and greatest piece of archaeological evidence of Christianity on the island of Malta. The legend that these catacombs were formerly linked to St. Paul’s Grotto is what gives them their saintly connotations. Despite the fact that this is still a myth, new evidence suggests that the two were formerly part of a sizable cemetery near the site of ancient Melite. It has been established that the hypogea were uncovered in a cemetery that has been in use continuously from at least the third or fourth century BC.

Catacombs are a classic example of a network of underground Roman graves that were in use until at least the eighth century AD. They may be found in the Tad-Dlam neighborhood, which is also known as al Bajjada. There are about 30 hypogea in the region, the largest of which is a network of corridors and tombs covering more than 2,000 square meters and located within the St. Paul’s cluster.

Irdum ta’ Ħal Far

What a gorgeous way to unwind at the end of the day as the sun sets over the Mediterranean.
Watch the sun go down from Hal far cliffs, and if it’s not quite time yet, spend the time exploring the coast and trails, which are rich with discoveries.


Ideas for Your Trip to Malta!

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Gozo Gems: 7 Top Things to See and Do on Your Maltese Vacation

In an unforgettable journey to Gozo, we will explore Gozo gems and unveil seven great things to see and do in Gozo, Malta’s sister island, that will make your Maltese vacation truly memorable.

2 thoughts on “Malta, Gozo Itinerary – 7 Days”

  1. Hi there very cool blog!! Guy .. Beautiful ..
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    1. Hi there! Thanks so much for your kind words and support. I’m thrilled that you’re enjoying the blog. Feel free to bookmark the website. Subscription to the feeds is not available yet but I’m going to make it possible as soon as I can so You can stay updated with our latest travel itineraries and tips. You can also follow my Instagram @adventurous_itinerant to catch up with the latest posts and news! If you have any specific questions or topics you’d like to see covered, please let me know. I’m always happy to share more travel insights. Happy travels!

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