Here are our top tips for travelling with children and things to do when in Gozo for a fun and serene holiday that brings smiles to parents and kids.
One crucial thing to note is that Gozo truly welcomes children. Gozitans like children, and you will discover that most accommodation options are well-geared to accommodate even little children. When choosing your accommodation option, it is essential to consider important details, such as whether you prefer traditional hotel service or self-service accommodation. Another vital decision point is the type of location you are after. In Gozo, you can find accommodation in the towns or villages, the countryside or the seaside. If you have specific requirements, don’t hesitate to contact your host, as all your questions will be answered.
Your ultimate choice will hinge on your budget and whether you intend to use public transport or rent a car to explore the island. Choosing a location close to the beach will appeal to families who love the blue and can enjoy the coast at different hours of the day. Others might be satisfied choosing inland accommodations or resorts with pool facilities. Take note of resorts that include spa options, as these will be a bonus for parents who might be after finding pockets of time for indulging in some self-pampering. Your ultimate choice for a family holiday will also depend on whether you intend to use public transport or rent a car to explore the island.
Gozo is well covered by public transport, but renting a vehicle is the best suggestion for more comfort and ease for a more kid-friendly holiday. Distances are short in Gozo, and there are no long journeys. When you’re in charge of your transport, you gain more time and experience less parental stress. If you’re here during the hot weather, ensure you’re adequately prepared with sunblock, and avoid extended stays in the cars, which become like a furnace! Families travelling with strollers also need a sun umbrella or a cover to protect younger children or infants from direct sun.
Gozo’s top family favourite beaches would be Ramla, Xlendi, Marsalforn and Ħondoq ir-Rummien. While you’re in Gozo, visit these beaches, but there are other creeks and bays to consider. The whimsical Wied il-Għasri, the magnificent Mġarr ix-Xini and the stupendous San Blas, all of which are reached after steep descents, might not be ideal for families travelling with tiny children. Still, those with older kids will consider this part of the adventure. Another fantastic beach is the Inland Sea at Dwejra. Gozo’s beaches are not only about swimming and snorkelling. The main beaches are also hubs for watersports, boat rides and diving centres.
Families travelling with children are always looking for gardens and playgrounds as pitstops. Gozo’s central garden is Villa Rundle Gardens in Victoria, providing a shady spot of respite in the middle of Victoria. There are several localities in Gozo, such as the recently refurbished Munxar playground, where kids can vent their energy. For a countryside vibe, visit one of Gozo’s eco farms or try horse riding. Try the trackless train or the sightseeing buses for the ultimate sightseeing tour on a kid-friendly holiday.
Older children will be intrigued to discover that Gozo is the island where fairytales and legends come to life. The Ġgantija mystery never fails to fascinate, and the Citadel evokes the past with stories of knights in shining armour. The coastal towers bring to mind sea battles and pirates. The tale of the pirate island is best served via a boat tour of Comino’s Sea caves.
If you’re in Gozo in summer, you cannot avoid the flamboyant feasts the villages organise in honour of their patron saints. The feasts are an elaborate affair of church services complete with grandiose music, street decorations, brass band marches, and fireworks. It all feels like a vibrant street party, where youngsters revel in the celebrations and where fireworks light up the Mediterranean night sky. Food stalls provide a quick bite like traditional pastizzi, but booking is necessary to dine in the village squares. Feasts are like the funfair for children; there is no doubt that they will be flocking to the candy floss stalls and the ice cream vans.
Gozo’s been considered a kid-friendly destination for a long time. Welcoming and safe, it is a place where travelling with children is easier to organise. Grown-ups who have visited the island as children often return with their offspring for another dose of family fun under the Mediterranean blue skies.