Christmas Tour in Gozo (afternoon) inc. Dinner

Our review of the Christmas Tour in Gozo offers a comprehensive look at this holiday-themed adventure, designed to bring the island’s charm and history alive in just a few hours. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, the glowing 5.0-star rating from 12 travelers suggests its popularity and quality.

What really draws us to this experience are the intimate tuk-tuk ride through scenic streets, the chance to visit iconic landmarks like Calypso Cave and the Cittadella, and the festive atmosphere created by the Christmas markets. Plus, the included dinner with local delicacies ensures you won’t go hungry after a day of exploring. However, the tour’s limited sightseeing window and emphasis on specific landmarks mean it might not suit travelers looking for a more extensive or flexible itinerary.

This tour seems perfect for those wanting a focused, festive introduction to Gozo—especially during the holiday season—combining sightseeing, culture, and good food in a relatively short time. If you love local traditions, scenic rides, and cozy Christmas markets, this experience could be just what you’re after.

Key Points

• Personalized small-group tour offers a more intimate experience.
• Scenic tuk-tuk rides through narrow streets and remote areas.
• Rich mix of highlights, including historic sites, markets, and coastal scenery.
• Includes a traditional Christmas dinner with local flavors.
• Accessible and family-friendly, with options for all ages.
• Reliable reviews praising guides and overall value, with a 5-star average rating.

The Experience in Detail

An Introduction to the Tour

Starting at Cirkewwa cafe in Mellieha, the tour kicks off at 1:00 pm, giving you the perfect afternoon window to enjoy the sights before sunset. The 6-hour duration includes a mix of scenic rides, cultural visits, and festive markets, making it a well-paced, engaging experience. The tour’s small-group setting (up to 36 travelers, often fewer) ensures you get a personalized touch, including friendly guides who are praised for their knowledge and availability.

The Tuk-Tuk Ride: Navigating Narrow Streets and Remote Corners

One of the standout features, as highlighted by a reviewer, is the electric tuk-tuk tour through narrow, sometimes hard-to-access streets. The electric vehicles are notably quiet, making for a peaceful ride with minimal environmental impact. Travelers like Monica, who raved about the “super nice” guide, appreciated the way this mode of transport allowed them to explore parts of Gozo that larger buses can’t reach—like tiny alleyways and remote village roads.

The ride itself is a highlight for the visual experience, with plenty of opportunities to capture photos of picturesque landscapes and historic buildings. The small size of the tuk-tuk gives a sense of adventure and intimacy, and guides often share fun stories or useful tips along the way.

Stop 1: Bethlehem fGajnsielem – A Living Nativity Experience

The first stop is the Bethlehem fGajnsielem nativity village, a life-size scene that brings the Christmas story to life. Envision about 150 actors in period costumes, horses turning mill wheels, villagers in traditional garb, and animals roaming freely. Set on a sprawling 20,000 sqm of farmland, it’s a captivating glimpse into Maltese holiday traditions.

Reviewers speak of the atmosphere being truly unique, especially as the nativity scene is set up during December. The detailed scene with villagers tending to their animals and shepherds in caves makes for a captivating visit, especially as it’s free of charge. It’s a great way to start the tour, immersing you in authentic holiday spirit.

Stop 2: Villa Rundle Garden Christmas Market

Next, the tour visits Villa Rundle Gardens, a hub of holiday activity. The market stalls are run by local organizations, with proceeds supporting community services. You’ll find Christmas ornaments, sweets, local drinks, and traditional items like pasturi—a Maltese Christmas pastry.

The reviews highlight the lively, community-oriented atmosphere with entertainment, storytelling sessions, and even a visit from Father Christmas. The stalls offer a chance to pick up unique souvenirs or indulge in festive treats while supporting local initiatives, making the experience both culturally rich and meaningful.

Stop 3: The Citadel at Night

As evening falls, the tour takes you into Gozitan history with a visit to the Cittadella — a fortress that looks stunning when lit up at night. Unlike daytime visits, which can be crowded, the night visit offers a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere with few visitors and a quiet charm.

Expect beautiful photo opportunities, with the fortress walls and cityscape bathed in warm light, perfect for capturing memorable images. The interior is tranquil, with the distant sound of church bells and the rustling wind adding to the ambiance. The free access makes this a highlight for photo enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Stop 4: Coastal and Cultural Highlights

Finally, the tour includes a stop at Ramla Valley, famous for its red sandy beach, and the Salt Pans, showcasing local traditional salt harvesting. These sites offer scenic views of Gozo’s coastline, giving a taste of the island’s natural beauty, even during winter.

While the visit to the Island of Gozo itself is brief (about an hour), it’s enough to appreciate the island’s rugged charm and coastal scenery. The included ferry tickets and boat transfers (weather permitting) ensure smooth transit, with many reviewers noting the value of these arrangements.

Included and Not Included

Your meal is a highlight—starting with a Malta platter, followed by local baked pasta or salad, and ending with traditional Christmas pudding. A glass of mulled wine or wine adds a warming touch, perfect for the festive vibe.

Transportation is thoughtfully arranged, with pick-up and drop-off, plus ferry tickets included in the price, making logistics hassle-free. The friendly drivers are praised for their helpfulness and local knowledge, enhancing the overall experience.

However, entrance fees to sights like the Cittadella or Bethlehem village are not included, so be prepared for optional extras if you wish to explore further inside these sites.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor exploring and some walking.
• Consider donning Christmas-themed attire to get into the holiday spirit.
• The tour starts at 1 pm, so plan your arrival accordingly.
• The small group size ensures a cozy experience but means booking early is recommended, given the average 41-day advance booking window.
• The weather can influence boat transfer timings, so keep an eye on the forecast.
• The tour is family-friendly, but children should be supervised, especially during the boat and site visits.
• No extra costs are necessary unless you want to explore sites beyond the free entry points.

The Sum Up

This Christmas Tour in Gozo offers a charming blend of scenic rides, cultural highlights, and genuine holiday cheer. Its intimate tuk-tuk experience, coupled with visits to historic sites and lively markets, makes it a standout way to celebrate the season on the island.

The inclusion of a traditional Maltese Christmas dinner is an added bonus, providing both a delicious meal and a warm, communal atmosphere. The guides’ local knowledge and the well-organized logistics** make this tour a hassle-free way to see key parts of Gozo in a limited timeframe.

If you’re after a cozy, festive introduction to Gozo, especially during the holidays, this experience is a fantastic choice. It’s best suited for those who enjoy small group adventures, culture, and winter scenery with a touch of Christmas magic.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but they should be supervised during boat transfers and site visits. The tour’s relaxed pace and family-friendly stops make it suitable for all ages.

Does the tour include sightseeing inside the sites?
The stops at Bethlehem village, Villa Rundle Market, and the Cittadella are free visits, but entrance fees to any additional attractions are not included.

What is the transportation like?
The main transportation is via electric tuk-tuk, which is quiet and eco-friendly. It’s an ideal way to access narrow or remote streets not reachable by larger vehicles.

How long is the entire tour?
Approximately six hours, including sightseeing, meals, and transfers. The primary sightseeing window is from 1 pm to around 7 pm.

Is the dinner included?
Yes, the tour includes a festive dinner with Maltese specialties, dessert, and drinks, making it a complete experience.

Can I wear Christmas-themed clothing?
Absolutely! Wearing festive attire is encouraged and can add to the holiday spirit, plus many locals and guides appreciate the cheerful touch.

Are there any additional costs?
Entrance fees to sights are not included, but most stops are free. Souvenirs or additional meals are personal expenses.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic tuk-tuk rides, authentic holiday markets, iconic landmarks at night, and a warm Christmas meal sets it apart—especially during the festive season.

To sum it up, this Christmas Tour in Gozo offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that balances sightseeing with seasonal joy. Perfectly suited for holiday travelers, families, and anyone eager to see a different side of Malta’s sister island, it promises memorable moments wrapped in festive cheer.