St Julian’s: Gozo Full-Day Opentop Bus and Comino Caves

Discover Malta’s Charm with the Gozo Full-Day Opentop Bus and Comino Caves Tour

This tour promises a full day of exploring Malta’s neighboring islands of Gozo and Comino, blending history, scenic views, and a touch of adventure. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but from the detailed itinerary and reviews, this experience offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxing moments that appeal to many travelers.

What truly stands out to us is the chance to visit iconic sites like the Ggantija Temples—older than Egypt’s pyramids—plus the chance to relax at the Santa Maria Caves with their stunning water and rock formations. The double-decker bus tour on Gozo provides a fun way to see the island’s highlights comfortably, and the boat rides seem to add a special touch of excitement. However, some might find the entire day a bit packed, especially if they prefer more leisure time at each stop.

This experience is ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone eager to see Malta’s islands from both land and sea. If you value guided insights, scenic routes, and a mix of cultural and natural sights, this tour could be just right. Just keep in mind that it involves a fair amount of moving parts and boat rides, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy schedule and boat travel.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers major Gozitan sites and the Santa Maria Caves on Comino.
• All-in-one experience: Combines boat rides, bus tours, and free time for swimming.
• Expert-guided tour: Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of historic sites.
• Beautiful scenery: Scenic routes and stunning ocean views throughout the day.
• Convenient logistics: Round-trip transport included, with clear meeting points.
• Value for the price: About $82 offers a full day of diverse experiences, though it can feel busy.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Overall Logistics

The tour kicks off at Sun & Fun Water Sports, easy to find with a clear meeting point just before the Corinthia Verdi Hotel’s black gate. The itinerary involves a speedboat ride from Malta to Gozo—a scenic 40-minute cruise that showcases Malta’s rugged coastline and iconic St. Paul’s Islands. Reviewers noted that the boat ride is a highlight, offering lively views and a sense of adventure right from the start.

Once on Gozo, travelers hop onto a comfortable double-decker bus for a guided tour around the island, with the chance to sit on the open top deck and soak in the panoramic scenery. The medieval city of Victoria and its Citadel are prime stops, promising sweeping vistas of the surrounding countryside. Guides are praised for their knowledge, providing context about each site, from ancient temples to local traditions.

Visiting the Ggantija Temples

A major highlight is the Ggantija Temples, which are over 5,000 years old—older than the pyramids. Visitors report being impressed by their scale and the incredible age of these megalithic structures. This site offers incredible photo opportunities and insight into early Maltese civilization. Some reviews mentioned that the guide’s explanations add depth, helping visitors appreciate why these ruins are considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Victoria and Ta Pinu Basilica

Victoria, the island’s historic capital, is charming, with narrow streets and a lively piazza. The Citadel provides some of the best views on the island, and many groups spend a good amount of time here, taking photos and soaking in the atmosphere. The Ta Pinu Basilica is another highlight—an ornate and impressive church that’s worth exploring both for its architecture and its significance as a pilgrimage site. Spectators often mention the peaceful ambiance and stunning design.

Rustic Charm at Fontana Cottage

A quick stop at Fontana Cottage offers a glimpse of rural Gozitan life, with rustic scenery perfect for photos. Reviewers found this stop refreshing, away from the busier tourist spots, and a good chance to enjoy some authentic countryside views.

Santa Maria Caves and Comino

After the land tour, the group heads back to the port to re-embark on a short 30-minute boat cruise to the Santa Maria Caves on Comino. These caves are renowned for their crystal-clear waters and dramatic rock formations—a photographer’s dream. Visitors can swim, snorkel, or simply enjoy the scenery from the boat. One reviewer praised the caves’ beauty, noting that the water was warm and inviting, making it an ideal spot for a quick dip.

Return Journey and Reflection

The trip concludes back at the original meeting point, with travelers often feeling that they’ve experienced a good balance of history, natural beauty, and leisure. The entire day lasts approximately 6 hours, offering a satisfying snapshot of Malta’s nearby islands without feeling overly rushed.

Transportation and Comfort

Transporting guests by a combination of speedboat and double-decker bus makes for a dynamic experience. The bus seats are comfortable, and the open-top option during the scenic drive receives positive comments for providing unobstructed views. The boat rides are generally smooth, although those with seasickness prone should consider medication or precautions, as some reviewers noted.

Practical Details

• The price of $82 per person covers all transport, guided tours, and the cave visit. Meals and drinks are not included, so packing snacks or planning meals around the tour is a good idea.
• The meeting point is straightforward to find, and the activity ends back at the start point, making logistics hassle-free.
• Flexibility is offered with the option to reserve now and pay later, which is handy if your plans aren’t set in stone.

What We Love (and What to Keep in Mind)

Good guides make a difference, and reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides for their friendly approach and storytelling. The stunning views from the Citadel and boat rides are undeniably memorable. The combination of land and sea makes this tour feel well-rounded.

However, the schedule can be tight, especially if you want more time exploring each site at your own pace. Some travelers mentioned that the bus stop durations can feel brief—around five hours total on Gozo—so those seeking a more relaxed experience might find it a tad rushed. Also, since the tour involves boat rides, it’s not ideal for anyone prone to seasickness or with mobility issues.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits history enthusiasts eager to see ancient temples and medieval towns. It’s perfect for adventurers who enjoy boat rides and scenic drives. If you’re looking for a comprehensive day trip that combines cultural sights with natural beauty, this tour offers solid value.

It’s also a good choice for travelers who want to see both islands in one go without the hassle of planning individual transport or guides. Just remember, it’s a full day of activity—not for those seeking leisure-only time or a very relaxed pace.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Malta’s nearby islands, blending history, scenic beauty, and fun. The combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and immersive visits to key sites makes it an attractive option for many travelers. The boat rides add a splash of adventure, while the bus tour keeps logistics straightforward.

While the schedule might feel a little packed, the variety of experiences ensures you’ll return with plenty of memorable moments. It’s a great way to get an overview of Gozo and Comino, especially if you’re short on time but want to make the most of Malta’s island treasures.

Ideal for history lovers, adventure seekers, and first-time visitors wanting a full day of exploration. Just be prepared for a busy schedule and some boat time, and you’ll likely find this trip a rewarding addition to your Malta itinerary.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including boat rides, bus tours, and stops at key sites.

What is included in the price?
Round-trip transportation by speedboat and double-decker bus, guided tour of Gozo, visit to Santa Maria Caves, and free time for swimming.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or eat before or after the tour.

Where do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is at Sun & Fun Water Sports, just before the Corinthia Verdi Hotel’s black gate. The detailed location is linked in the tour info.

Can I bring my camera?
Yes, there are numerous picturesque spots, so bring your camera or phone for photos—especially at Victoria, the Citadel, and the caves.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s best for travelers who are comfortable walking and standing; it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with back problems.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat, and apply sunscreen. Don’t forget swimwear and a change of clothes for the water.

Is seasickness a concern?
Some reviewers noted it’s a consideration; bringing seasickness remedies is recommended if you’re prone.

Do I need to reserve the Blue Lagoon access separately?
Yes, due to new government policies, visitors need to reserve Blue Lagoon access online through the official website. Without a valid pass, entry might be denied.

Is there free time to swim or snorkel?
Yes, during the boat cruise to Santa Maria Caves, there’s time for swimming or relaxing by the water.

This trip offers a balanced mix of history, scenic views, and fun boat rides—perfect for travelers wanting a full but manageable day exploring Malta’s nearby islands.

You can check if your dates are available here: