Are You Looking for A Hidden Gem in The Mediterranean? Check Out Gozo, Malta’s Sister Island. You’ll Be Surprised with The Number of Things to Do in Gozo With Kids of All Ages.
Gozo is an island of the Maltese archipelago, south of Sicily. It is known for its popular tourist sites and attractive naturally-occurring landmarks. Thousands of tourists flock to this area not only to enjoy its natural beauty and rich history but also to try some of its family-friendly activities. From various theme parks and museums to boat trips and watersports, there are so many things to do in Gozo with kids.
If you and your family are planning to visit Gozo soon, try these 10 family-friendly activities, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
TRAVEL TIPS YOU WILL FIND:
- #01 – QBAJJAR BAY AND QBAJJAR SALT PANS.
- #02 – PLAYGROUND AT THE THREE HILLS GARDEN.
- #03 – TRACKLESS TRAIN GOZO.
- #04 – THINGS TO DO IN RAMLA BEACH, GOZO.
- #05 – GOZO TOY MUSEUM.
- #06 – CITADELLA VISITOR CENTRE.
- #07 – VILLA RUNDLE GARDEN.
- #08 – DAY TRIP TO COMINO.
- #09 – DINE BY THE SEA.
- #10 – OUTDOOR ADVENTURE AND NATURE ACTIVITIES.
- BONUS TIP #1 – HOW TO GET TO GOZO.
- BONUS TIP #2 – HOW TO GET AROUND GOZO.
- BONUS TIP #3 – CLIMATE IN GOZO.
- BONUS TIP #4 – USEFUL INFORMATION.
- BONUS TIP #5 – WHERE TO STAY IN GOZO.
- BONUS TIP #6 – RELATED ARTICLES
#01 – QBAJJAR BAY AND QBAJJAR SALT PANS.
A great way to spend your day in Gozo is by visiting the Qbajjar promenade in Marsalforn. This place is perfect for a day of sightseeing with the whole family. The promenade offers breathtaking views of the waters and Qbajjar watch tower. Even kids are sure to appreciate its beauty. After strolling, why not take a break with your children along with the other families? You can enjoy a cup of coffee while the kids play around in the open area.
What is most stunning about Qbajjar are the rock-cut saltpans that protrude into the sea at Qbajjar Bay. These saltpans are over 350 years old and they stretch about 3km along the coastline.
According to visitgozo.com: they are part of the centuries-old Gozitan tradition of Sea-Salt production that has been passed down within certain families for many generations. During the summer months, locals can still be seen scraping up the crystals of salt. Once collected, the salt is stored and processed in the caves that have been carved into the coastal rock.
#02 – PLAYGROUND AT THE THREE HILLS GARDEN.
Once you’re done marvelling the beauty of Qbajjar promenade, head over to the nearby Three Hills Garden. This place offers play areas for children of all ages and is one of the most child-friendly places in Gozo. A lot of kids can be seen enjoying the garden, especially with its six play areas and other features.
Aside from that, it is one of the four afforestation projects related to the Eco-Gozo project by the government. It aims to add more green space to the small island in the near future.
#03 – TRACKLESS TRAIN GOZO.
Hop on the cultural and historical Calypso train tour with the kids from Victoria to the village of Xaghra. With full commentary on board, the train tour will go through the following route:
- St. Martha’s Chapel.
- View of the village of Xaghra.
- View of the Rotunda Church, Xewkija.
- Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Chapel.
- Views from Xaghra.
- Visit the oldest still-standing temple in the world and UNESCO Heritage Site – the Ggantija Temples.
- Ta’ Kola Windmill.
- The Villa Rundle Garden.
- View of the Citadel Victoria.
It is the cutest little thing and definitely worth doing especially if you have little kids.
Where is the WORLD'S OLDEST still-standing temple and UNESCO Heritage Site? Click here to find out! You won't believe it! #sacredtemple #temple #placeofworship #familytravel Click To Tweet#04 – THINGS TO DO IN RAMLA BEACH, GOZO.
Kids love the beach, especially during summer. In Gozo, families from all over the world flock to Ramla Bay, the largest and most famous beach on the island. Nestled in a valley between Nadur and Xaghra, this place is easily accessible by car or bus. It features fine sand and pristine waters that both children and adults will enjoy. Some of the fun activities you and your kids can do here include scavenger hunts, picnics, water games, and more.
#05 – GOZO TOY MUSEUM.
This small and privately-owned museum located in Xaghra will teach you and your kids a thing or two about Gozitan toys. Here you can see a wide array of old toys, which date back to 1970. Let your kids’ imagination soar as they marvel at the beauty of these unique and classic pieces.
Some of the objects in display at the Museum of Toys include an 18th-century Maltese doll with carved wooden head, a 1930’s Noah’s Ark, “Hornby” train set, and Edwin’s “Dinky” vehicles. You can also see some optical, soft, and clockwork tin toys.
Make sure you check the website for the days they are open as it is not consistent throughout the year.
Costs: Adults €2.80. Pensioners €1.80. Children/Students €1.50.
What do 18th century Gozitan toys look like? Find out where you can take your kids to show them! #whatisgozitan #300yearsold #toys #aretheyscary Click To Tweet#06 – CITADELLA VISITOR CENTRE.
Your Gozo trip will never be complete without setting foot to the Citadella. Considered as the island’s centerpiece with so many things to do, this place is known for its stunning architectural designs, as well as visual and narrative shows. Your kids are sure to be entertained with its engaging stories, matched with historic atmosphere of the place. Let their imagination roll with interesting tales of knights, battles, and more. It is definitely an experience they will never forget.
There are quite a few things to see at the Citadella:
- It’s major landmark, the Cathedral of the Assumption.
- The Law Courts in the main square known as the Pjazza tal-Katidral.
- The Old Prison, located behind the Law Courts, which was used as a prison from the 16th century to 1962. It contains well-preserved prison cells and other exhibitions.
- The Gozo Nature Museum, which is dedicated to Gozo’s geography, geology and natural science.
- The Gozo Museum of Archaeology, which is dedicated to Gozitan history from the prehistoric to medieval periods
- Gran Castello Historic House, which is dedicated to Gozitan folklore.
Opening Hours: The Citadella is open 7 days a week, including public holidays (with the exception of New Year’s Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, August 15 and Christmas Day). Opening hours are 9:30am to 5:00pm.
#07 – VILLA RUNDLE GARDEN.
Located in Victoria, the capital city of Gozo, this nature-themed venue is perfect for those parents who want to enjoy some me time as the Villa Rundle Garden is conveniently located near major shopping areas in town. Kids will have the freedom to play in a safe and well-protected environment, particularly in the play area.
There are even some child-centric activities held in this place occasionally, such as storytelling. The garden will also allow your child to appreciate nature, especially with its beautiful, tall trees and flower beds.
#08 – DAY TRIP TO COMINO.
Families who are looking to make the most out of summer should take a day trip to Comino. Located just a ferry-ride away from Gozo, this island is home to the Blue Lagoon, one of the most virtually stunning beaches in the country. From there, your whole family can bask in the sun and enjoy the pristine waters. Let your kids run free or make sand castles on its fine, white sand. There are several water activities that you can try as well, which are perfectly safe even for kids.
How to Get to Comino:
- The Comino Ferry Services can transport you from Mgarr Harbour to the Blue Lagoon.
- They depart every hour from 08.00am to 18.00pm.
- Departure from the Blue Lagoon back to Gozo is also every hour from 08.15am to 18.15pm.
Costs: Adults €10. Children (5-10 yrs) €5. Under 5yrs – Free
#09 – DINE BY THE SEA.
After a long day of sightseeing and activities around Gozo, it sure is nice to have a casual meal by the sea with the whole family. One of the best things to do at night in Gozo is to visit one of the restaurants in Xlendi or Marsalforn. Many places are considered as a cornerstone of dining and leisure, especially for families.
Some of the meals offered here include soups, fresh salads, pasta, seafood, and other light dishes. With stunning views of the sea and mouthwatering dishes, this is bound to be a good dining experience for everyone.
#10 – OUTDOOR ADVENTURE AND NATURE ACTIVITIES.
Want to have a fun-filled day with your family? Why not try some outdoor activities? There are several businesses that specialize in organizing recreational and physical activities for the whole family, such as kayaking, biking, hiking, climbing, and tours. Most of the adventures being offered here are kid-friendly and will be done with the utmost supervision. Children as young as seven years old can try climbing and abseiling in a perfectly safe and well-protected environment. They can also go biking, complete with guides and safety equipment.
The beautiful island of Gozo is an ideal place for kids of all ages. Let your kids connect with nature while entertaining themselves. Allow them to play on the grass or just marvel at the island’s natural beauty. After all, it’s not every day that they can experience such a relaxing ambience, especially in today’s fast-paced and modern life.
These are just a few things to do in Gozo that you and your family can enjoy on this island paradise. There are tons of other family-friendly activities to try and places to visit here that are sure to make your trip worthwhile. So, go ahead, book that flight with your family and experience the beauty of Gozo.
BONUS TIP #1 – HOW TO GET TO GOZO.
Getting to Gozo is pretty easy and very affordable. If you’re flying into from a major European city, you’ll find direct flights into Malta. When you have arrived, you have to make your way to the Circewwa Harbour which takes about an hour.
From Circewwa Harbour, catch a 30-minute ferry across the Gozo Channel. The ferry is frequent and leaves about every 45 minutes. Please check the schedule for timings which also includes the departure times from Mgarr back to the main Maltese island.
Costs: The fares are very cheap and only costing €4.65 for an adult and €1.15 per child each way. If you’re hiring a car, you can transport the car across the ferry too.
BONUS TIP #2 – HOW TO GET AROUND GOZO.
For such a small island, Gozo has an extensive public bus transport system. With 300 buses to get your everywhere around the island and at a mere cost of €21.00 for 7 days, you’ll have no trouble exploring. You can also rent a car and have the freedom to explore. Malta is a left-hand drive country.
BONUS TIP #3 – CLIMATE IN GOZO.
- Summers are hot, dry and very sunny with temperatures averaging about 31 degrees Celsius.
- Spring and autumn are cooler but only marginally and a lovely time to visit. The temperatures average low to mid-twenties degree Celsius.
- Winters are mild typically of the climate in the Mediterranean. Average temperatures hover around 15-17 degrees Celsius during the day and dipping to about 8-10 degrees Celsius overnight.
BONUS TIP #4 – USEFUL INFORMATION.
- The official languages of Malta are Maltese and English.
- The official currency in Malta is the Euro.
- Electricity is 220-240 volts.
BONUS TIP #5 – WHERE TO STAY IN GOZO.
Luxury: The Duke Boutique Hotel
Located on Republic Street in the heart of Victoria, this boutique hotel has some amazing reviews. Sheer indulgence, a very professional establishment of the highest quality. The rooms are very spacious, clean and very comfortable. The service is exemplary, the breakfast delicious and the views are gorgeous form the balcony.
Book Now Pay Later – Check Prices Here
Budget Bed and Breakfast: SEAL B&B
Located about 3.7km Xlendi, this bed and breakfast is perfect for families on a budget. They also have cribs if you’re travelling with your babies. SEAL B&B offers a continental or buffet breakfast. The Bed and Breakfast has a nice garden and terrace and free wifi is available for all guests.
Book Now Pay Later – Check Prices Here
4 Star Boutique Hotel: Cesca’s Boutique Hotel
Cesca’s Boutique Hotel is located in Xlendi, making it nice and close tot he sea. All rooms have a kitchen, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, and a private bathroom. The hotel also boasts a really nice rooFtop swimming pool and the hotel has great views. Staff have known to be helpful and friendly and the room all very clean and comfortable.
Book Now Pay Later – Check Prices Here
Boat Cabin: Yacht In Gozo’s Scenic Harbour
Now, wouldn’t this be a fun option and its super affordable too! This sailing boat is moored in Għajnsielem, 500 m from the Gozo Ferry Terminal. This yacht also features a sun deck and living/dining area with a kitchenette and table so perfect if you want to prepare your own meals and if you’re on a budget. There is a shared bathroom with a shower.
Book Now Pay Later – Check Prices Here
BONUS TIP #6 – RELATED ARTICLES
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Top 10 Things to Do in Gozo With Kids is written by Esther Bajada. Edited by Family Globetrotters.
Esther Bajada is Director for Tourism and Economic Development at the Ministry for Gozo and she is part of the Visitgozo-team, that helps to promote Gozo as a perfect travel destination.
Disclaimer: The Family Globetrotter’s website contains affiliate links which help us to maintain this blog and assists us with our travels, at no extra cost to you. Family Globetrotters have also posted articles based on sponsored products and/or services, but all opinions are our own, truthful and unbiased.
26 comments
its so great you manage to explore Gozo, i used to lived in Malta, but visited Gozo only twice. The most fondly i remember Comino, maybe now is time to visit with my girls.
oh wow you lived in Malta! That would have been beautiful. Wonder if Gozo has changed much since you last visited:)
I visited Malta few years ago and wish had read this post then. Did not know much about Gozo so did not visit. There is so much to do for kids. Love the place and the citadel and museums for toys would be our favourite must say. Dining by the water would be a great experience for the entire family.
Ah! Shame…. it would have been a lovely addition to your visit i am sure! the Citadel looks amazing and it is Gozo’s pride and joy. With the new Visitor Centre, it is all revamped and looks fantastic!
These are some fab things to do; not just for kids but adults too 🙂 I like the idea of going on a cultural train tour. That sounds great!
That trackless train in Gozo is so cute! You get ot see some amazing views form the lookout points they take you:)
Wow Gozo looks amazing! It’s a short flight away from me too… may just have to go one day soon! I don’t have kids but these ideas look fun to do regardless 🙂
Should deifnitely go if its so close to you. Its a destination filled with beautiful water and lagoons….. Everyone of all ages would enjoy it for sure:)
You are right, Gozo is indeed family-friendly. Also a great way to have an educational tour with kids. Those 300-year old salt pan looks amazing. Do they use a new technique now?
It just looks so beautiful! No idea about the salt pans but I sure hope this is still the traditional way. Wouldn’t it be nice for technology not to ruin age old traditions?
I never knew of Gozo and it is good to know that is near to Sicily as I am planning to visit this place in the near future. Good to know that this place is worth visiting with kids too. I loved the salt pans photo as it is unique feature of this place. Wandering around ancient Citadel must be also fun. Thanks for sharing a hidden gem with us!
Yes, nice and close to Sicily! That would make a nice addition to your itinerary! Yeah the salt pans look gorgeous and I reckon a must do on the list.
Gozo looks beautiful. I see why you selected these things to do with children. Toy museum sounds amazing and so does the gardens and the beaches. Thanks for all the valuable information about how to reach Gozo and the ferry rates. Definitely putting this on my bucket-list.
It sure does huh? Just a gorgeous island that isn’t overrun by tourists yet like Croatia so I reckon if you can visit it, do it soon!
Never been and I can’t to go. Your images and writing made me want to book my flight NOW!
DO IT!!!! LOL
Whenever I plan my trip to Europe, I’ll have to add Gozo! Its nice to know that you don’t have to rent a car to see the island. And a boat cabin sounds like an adventure in itself – what a memorable place to stay!
Yeah I reckon the boat cabin would be such an adventure! Just for something a bit different. If you do go, make sure you add a day trip tot he Blue Lagoon in Comino….. looks amazing!
I’ve been to Malta but not yet to Gozo, that’s a wonderful destination. I hope to visit it next time
Did you like Malta? What was your favourite thing to do there?
Looks like there is lots to do for kids and adults alike! I’m curious since you take your children on so many adventures… where has their favorite place been so far?! 🙂
My daughter’s favourite city of all tim is Tokyo! She is quite the foodie so she loves all the amazing culinary adventures plus all the shopping and of course Disneyland! Perfect place for a bit of everything.
Although I have no kids, I love reading your posts, because these ideas are perfect for me too! Malta is so close to Sicily, where I usually visit, but I still haven’t visited! Comino sounds wonderful, as does the blue lagoon. I’d also like to board the calypso train! It sounds like a lot of fun, though I may be one of the only adults without kids there ha!
Hahah! Such a kid at heart but that’s what travel is about I guess. Yes, if you’re in Sicily all of the time you should make your way to Malta some time! Nice and close.
I have read a lot of what Malta and Gozo, in particular, have to offer. Missed the chance to visit when I was last in Europe. Your post makes me wanna pack my bags again and head to Gozo!
It is one of those countries that everyone has heard of but never really been. Sure looks gorgeous and I hope you make it there one day!