Gozo Full Day visiting Ggantija Temples, Salt Pans, Dwejra

The Gozo Full Day tour from Valletta is priced at $82.69 per person and lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours. This guided excursion offers a comprehensive look at Gozo’s ancient sites and stunning scenery, making it a great choice for travelers interested in history, nature, and local culture. The tour features a UNESCO-listed Ggantija Temples, a trackless train ride along the coast, visits to the Salt Pans, and time in the capital city of Victoria with a buffet dinner in Rabat. The tour includes hotel pickup, round-trip ferries, and entrance tickets to the temples.

While the overall experience offers plenty of highlights and good value, some reviews point out issues with organization and timing. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a busy schedule and want a broad overview of Gozo’s key sights in a single day. The tour is a solid option for history buffs and those eager to see multiple locations without the hassle of planning.

Key Points

• Full-day guided tour from Valletta to Gozo, lasting about 7-8 hours.
• Includes ferry crossings, temple entrance, and a train ride along the coast.
• Highlights include the Ggantija Temples, Salt Pans, Victoria, and scenic stops at Dwejra Bay.
• The tour offers hotel pickup, transportation, and dinner, providing good overall value.
• Some reviews mention organizational challenges, especially with timing and stops.
• Suitable for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a hassle-free day trip.

Exploring Gozo’s UNESCO-Listed Ggantija Temples

The tour starts with an excursion to the Ggantija Archaeological Park, home of the Ggantija Temples, which are over 5,550 years old. These megalithic structures are older than the Egyptian pyramids and are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The guided tour around the temples provides insights into their construction and historical significance. The admission ticket is included, allowing for a closer look at these second-oldest religious structures in the world after Gobekli Tepe.

Many reviews note that the temples are the main highlight of the trip. The impressive size of the stones and the antiquity of the site often evoke admiration. However, some found the site somewhat underwhelming if expecting a large museum or more extensive ruins, as access to the museum is limited during the tour.

Scenic Coastline and Salt Pans on the Trackless Train

One of the most memorable parts of this tour is the train ride along the coast of Xwejni Bay. The trackless train offers views of Marsalforn Bay, Qbajjar Bay, and the Salt Pans, which have been used for centuries to harvest salt. The train ride lasts about 45 minutes and provides a relaxed way to enjoy scenic coastal vistas and spot local landmarks like the Salvatur Statue.

Some reviews mention that, due to windy weather, the train’s plastic sides limit the view, and the ride is quick—about 15 minutes—with little opportunity for photos. It’s a convenient and pleasant way to see the coastline without walking, but those especially keen on photography may find it too rushed.

Visiting Victoria and the Cittadella Fortress

The capital city of Victoria is a key stop, with a guided walking tour of its Cittadella and Gozo Cathedral. The medieval fortress offers panoramic views over the island and a glimpse into Gozo’s historical center. The guide provides context about the fortress’s history, and visitors have free time afterward for independent sightseeing or shopping.

The short stop at Rabat allows for a quick exploration of local streets and shops. Reviewers appreciate this part of the tour for giving a taste of Gozo’s atmosphere, though some wish for more time to explore in depth.

Dwejra Bay and Optional Boat Tour

Dwejra Bay is famed for its dramatic sea cliffs and the Azure Window, which unfortunately collapsed in 2017. The tour offers 45 minutes of free time here to admire the landscape. An optional boat tour is available at an extra charge and depends on weather conditions.

Some visitors find Dwejra’s scenery stunning, but others feel that the limited time leaves little opportunity to fully enjoy it or take photos. The collapsed Azure Window means the area now focuses more on scenic views than on the iconic rock formation.

Visiting the Gozo Craft Centre and Local Shopping

A visit to the Gozo Craft Centre provides a chance to see local handicrafts and purchase souvenirs. This stop lasts about 40 minutes and is included in the tour. It’s an opportunity to pick up unique gifts or sample local Maltese foods.

Reviews vary—some find the shopping stop interesting and worthwhile, while others see it as a forced detour that cuts into sightseeing time. Be aware that the stop duration can feel longer than necessary for those eager to explore other sites.

Lunch and Dinner Arrangements

The tour includes a buffet dinner in Rabat, often praised for being tasty and well-presented. The lunch option is usually at a local restaurant in Victoria, with some reviewers noting the food quality as above average. Other feedback indicates that timing for lunch can be tight, especially if the tour runs behind schedule.

It’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included in the tour price, so additional expenses are possible. The dinner provides a relaxing end to a busy day of sightseeing.

Pacing, Timing, and Tour Organization

The length of the tour—around 10 hours—means it’s quite full, with many stops and transfer times. Some reviews highlight issues with late pickups, long waiting times, and short opportunities at each site. For example, the merchandise stop and lunch delay can frustrate those wanting a more relaxed pace.

Despite the organizational hiccups, the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm often receive praise. The timing of ferry crossings is generally reliable, but the length of the day makes it less suitable for travelers who prefer a more leisurely experience.

Accessibility and Group Size

This tour accommodates a maximum of 40 travelers, with hotel pickup and drop-off provided. The moderate physical activity involves short walks through sites like Victoria and the Cittadella.

Those with mobility issues should consider the walking distances and standing time involved, but overall, the tour is manageable for most people with moderate fitness levels.

Final Thoughts on the Gozo Full Day Tour

The value for money is generally considered good, given that the tour includes ferry tickets, temple entrance, train ride, and dinner. The scenic coastal views, impressive historical sites, and local shopping make it appealing for those eager to cover many highlights in one day.

However, organizational issues—such as late pickups, short site visits, and timed stops—are common complaints. The long duration and busy schedule may be exhausting for some. It’s most suited for active travelers comfortable with crowds and tight schedules who want a rundown of Gozo’s key attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes ferry tickets, pickup from your hotel, and transportation between sites.

Are meals included?
The buffet dinner in Rabat is included, but lunch is not included, and you’ll need to pay separately.

What sites are visited during the tour?
The stops include the Ggantija Temples, Salt Pans with a train ride, Victoria with the Cittadella, and Dwejra Bay.

Can I visit the temples if they are closed?
The temples are usually open, but some reviews mention they were closed on December 24, which could affect availability.

How long is the overall tour?
Expect 10 hours from start to finish, including transfers, meals, and site visits.

Is the tour suitable for mobility-impaired travelers?
The tour involves short walks and standing, so those with moderate mobility should be able to participate comfortably.

What do reviews say about the guides?
Guides are often praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, though some reviews note organization issues that impact the experience.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
Most agree that the Ggantija Temples are the most impressive site visited.

Are there optional activities?
Yes, a boat tour at Dwejra Bay is available at an extra charge and depends on weather conditions.

How is the pacing of the tour?
The tour can feel rushed, especially at merchandise stops and lunch, with many reviewers noting the long day and shorter site visits.

Is this tour good value for money?
Considering it includes ferry rides, temple admission, train rides, and dinner, many find it worth the cost, despite some organizational flaws.

This guided day trip offers a comprehensive glimpse of Gozo’s history and scenery, perfect for those who want an efficient, well-rounded experience. Be prepared for a full day, and keep in mind the potential for tight schedules and organizational hiccups.