Best of Gozo & Comino

When you’re planning a Malta trip with limited time, you face a familiar dilemma: there’s so much to see, but the days go by quickly. This tour from iSeeMalta attempts to solve that problem by packing visits to two distinct islands—the historic island of Gozo and the beach-lover’s paradise of Comino—into a single 7.5-hour experience. We’ve reviewed the feedback from over 1,200 travelers who’ve taken this journey, and there’s a solid case to be made for why this tour deserves serious consideration.

We especially appreciate two things about this experience. First, you’re getting both islands plus the famous Blue Lagoon for $54.42 per person, which is genuinely good value when you consider what you’d spend organizing this independently. Second, the tour gives you meaningful time to actually experience places rather than just checking boxes—you get about two hours in the Blue Lagoon itself, not just a quick photo stop. That said, it’s worth knowing upfront that this isn’t a guided tour with narration; you’ll be exploring largely on your own, which some travelers find liberating and others find a bit confusing.

This experience works best if you’re comfortable with a semi-independent travel style, enjoy the flexibility to wander at your own pace, and don’t mind being part of a larger group (up to 50 travelers per departure).

Understanding What You’re Really Getting

Before you book, let’s be clear about what this tour actually is. The company describes it as a mini-van drive around parts of Gozo with ferry connections to Comino. It’s not a comprehensive guided tour where someone narrates every detail of what you’re seeing. Several reviewers felt disappointed because they expected more explanation and structure, while others loved having the freedom to explore independently.

The reality is this: you’ll spend roughly 45 minutes at the Cittadella in Victoria with free admission, about three hours total exploring Gozo by minivan with a couple of stops, and then approximately two hours swimming and relaxing at the Blue Lagoon. The ferry rides themselves—particularly on the modern, air-conditioned catamaran—are quite comfortable and relatively quick.

One traveler who understood the format perfectly put it this way: “Good day out, I enjoyed the catamaran… The cruise was fantastic, the staff were really friendly and they showed us great views because we did the full itinerary Comino and Gozo by minibus…. And so in one day we saw so much.” This captures the real value proposition: you’re not getting depth at any single location, but you’re getting breadth across two islands in a manageable timeframe.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What Happens When

Your Starting Point: Sliema Ferry Terminal

You’ll meet at the Sliema Ferry terminal in Malta, which is near public transportation, making it relatively accessible. The meeting point is straightforward, though a few travelers noted that information about the exact location could be clearer on the company’s website. Once you arrive, you’ll board the catamaran—described by multiple travelers as “brand new,” “fully air-conditioned,” and offering “a very easy and quite fast” journey.

The ferry itself is worth mentioning because comfort matters on a day tour. Several reviewers specifically praised the vessel’s air conditioning and modern facilities, which makes sense when you’re spending significant time on the water. One solo traveler noted: “The vessel feels brand new and is fully air-conditioned so basically it gets you to gozo in comfort. The ride was very easy and quite fast too.”

Stop 1: The Cittadella in Victoria, Gozo

Once you reach Gozo, you’ll spend roughly 45 minutes exploring the Cittadella (also called Il-Kastell), the fortified citadel that dominates Victoria’s skyline. This isn’t just any old fortress—the site has been inhabited since the Bronze Age, and what you’re walking through represents centuries of Mediterranean history. The Cittadella has been a strategic stronghold for Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and Europeans over thousands of years.

What you’ll actually find here is a maze of narrow stone alleyways, historic buildings, and ramparts offering views across the island. The admission is free, which is genuinely helpful for your budget. However—and this is important—you won’t have a guide explaining the history or pointing out significant buildings. One traveler summed up this experience honestly: “Good day out, I enjoyed… visiting beautiful alley ways of Victoria… a very memorable experience.”

Some travelers wished for more guidance here. As one reviewer noted, “Tienes 15 minutos y otra vez al autobús donde te vuelven a soltar en el pueblo sin indicarte que lugar es interesante” (You get 15 minutes and then back to the bus where they drop you in town without indicating what places are interesting to visit). If self-guided exploration doesn’t appeal to you, this might be a limitation worth considering.

Stop 2: Ta Pinu Shrine and Gozo Exploration

During your time on Gozo, you’ll also visit Ta Pinu, a significant pilgrimage shrine, and have time to explore more of the island by minivan. Several travelers mentioned this stop specifically, and one particularly happy visitor noted: “Once in gozo i enjoyed an approx 2 hour tour stopping at the wonderful Ta Pinu Shrine and also in citadella (plenty of things to see it’s marvelous).”

However, this is where some travelers felt the experience fell short of expectations. The minivans used for this portion aren’t always air-conditioned, which one traveler specifically complained about: “Good day out, disappointed by not travelling around Gozo in an air-conditioned bus as per description of day.” The company has acknowledged this feedback and indicated they’re working to upgrade to proper buses instead of minivans for this portion of the itinerary.

Stop 3: The Blue Lagoon, Comino—The Highlight

After your time on Gozo, you’ll ferry to Comino and spend approximately two hours at the Blue Lagoon. This is genuinely the star of the show for most travelers. The water is impossibly clear and turquoise, and it’s one of the Mediterranean’s most photographed swimming spots.

Now, here’s what you need to know: the Blue Lagoon is popular. Very popular. One frank review noted: “The Blue Lagoon is truly beautiful A spectacular place ruined by far too many visitors There is nowhere to sit. People are rude about space inconsiderate of others and generally spoil a sensational experience.” The company’s response was equally frank: “Unfortunately yes, you find certain inconsiderate people everywhere. May I suggest (for next time) that you walk further into Comino and explore other parts of the island, it’s a lot bigger than one expects.”

This is valuable advice. If you’re willing to walk beyond the main lagoon area, you’ll find quieter spots and can genuinely enjoy the experience. One traveler who did this said: “Best trip to see both islands Gozo and Blue Lagoon, Comino. There is plenty time to visit Victoria and then swim to cool down. Definitely recommend.”

Getting in and out of the water can be challenging if sea conditions are rough. One traveler described it directly: “Getting off the ship at the Lagoon while it’s wavy is definitely Not for the physically challenged or too old to jump a couple of feet down. Getting back on seems easier to a point but again plank is constantly bobbing up and down.” This is important if you have mobility concerns or aren’t comfortable with that kind of physical movement.

You can rent snorkeling equipment for around €3-5, though the company acknowledges this information wasn’t prominent on their booking page. If snorkeling interests you, it’s worth asking about when you board.

Practical Considerations That Matter

Group Size and Atmosphere

This tour operates with up to 50 travelers per departure, which means you’re part of a moderate-sized group rather than an intimate experience. One traveler who appreciated the value but noted the trade-off said: “Personally I would always lay extra to go with a smaller group but this was an exception and overall good because of the value of money.”

Some travelers found the staff unfriendly, which is worth noting. One person wrote: “The guy in charge never smiles. The bus driver doesn’t either. Was quite an unfriendly atmosphere for such a great deal of money whilst on the boat.” However, others had the opposite experience, with one reviewer praising “Michael the mediator was the only person who was actually helpful and I could reach out to him whenever I wanted on WhatsApp for any info.”

Timing and Logistics

The tour takes approximately 7.5 hours total, which is a substantial portion of your day. You’ll start in Sliema in the morning (typically 10 AM departures, with additional sailings at 10:30 AM and 12:30 PM). Plan on being back at your meeting point by late afternoon.

One practical note: there are different tickets required for different portions of the journey. As one traveler mentioned: “Different tickets for the boat to gozo and for coming blue lagoon (free) but still has to be booked. Not enough information on the site, but once you find the kiosk from which the boat leaves all staff is friendly and helpful.” Once you understand the system, it’s manageable, but initial confusion is possible.

Weather Dependency

This experience is weather-dependent. The company will cancel if sea conditions are unsafe, and they’re appropriately cautious about this. One traveler whose tour was canceled due to rough seas was frustrated with communication, but the company’s position is clear: “the sea was extremely rough for the past few days, it would have been suicidal to operate any ferry during this period.” This is actually a safety feature, not a bug, though you should plan flexibility into your Malta itinerary in case of cancellation.

The Value Equation

At $54.42 per person, you’re looking at a full day of travel, transportation between two islands, admission to the Cittadella, and two hours in one of the Mediterranean’s most famous swimming spots. Compare that to the cost of renting a car, taking ferries independently, and paying individual admission fees—and the math becomes more favorable.

One traveler made an interesting comparison: “Pierdes todo el día y lo único que vale la pena es el blue laggon, mejor coge el ferry y vas directo al blue lagoon y te cuesta solo 10 euros, no 30” (You lose the whole day and the only thing worth it is the blue lagoon; better to take the ferry directly to the blue lagoon and it costs only 10 euros, not 30). This is a fair point if you’re only interested in swimming and have plenty of time to explore independently. But if you want to see Gozo’s historic sites and the Blue Lagoon without planning logistics yourself, the value proposition is solid.

Potential Frustrations to Anticipate

Several reviewers mentioned feeling lost or confused about where to go and what to do. As one traveler put it: “Disappointing—Not enough explanations and very diffuse. We were basically dropped off at various points and had to make our own way around with the help of Google.” The company’s response was direct: “Sorry to hear this, but the tour you selected is not a guided tour.”

This is the core tension with this experience: it’s efficient and affordable, but it requires comfort with self-directed exploration. If you need detailed explanations and step-by-step guidance, this tour will frustrate you. If you enjoy having freedom and flexibility with a bit of logistical support, you’ll likely appreciate it.

Communication issues have also been noted. Several travelers reported difficulty reaching the company when they had questions or experienced cancellations. However, the company does have a responsive manager (Michael) who can be reached via email at [email protected] or apparently WhatsApp, which some travelers found helpful.

Who This Tour Works Best For

This experience is ideal if you’re a time-conscious traveler who wants to check off two islands and enjoy famous swimming in a single day. It works well for those comfortable with self-guided exploration, who don’t mind being part of a moderate-sized group, and who appreciate straightforward value over hand-holding. Solo travelers, couples, and small groups have all enjoyed it successfully.

It’s less suitable if you prefer detailed historical narration, need extensive physical accessibility accommodation, want an air-conditioned minibus for the Gozo portion, or require constant communication and guidance throughout the day.

Booking and Cancellation Details

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which provides reasonable flexibility. The experience requires good weather, and cancellations due to poor conditions come with either a rescheduled date or full refund. Confirmation comes at the time of booking, and the company notes that Wi-Fi is available onboard.

The tour typically books about 11 days in advance on average, so you don’t need to reserve months ahead, though booking further out during peak season is sensible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is this a guided tour with narration and explanations?
A: No, this is not a guided tour. You’ll be dropped off at various stops and explore largely on your own. The company provides transportation and access to attractions, but minimal narration. This is by design and helps keep costs low, but it’s important to know before booking.

Q: What should I bring or wear for the Blue Lagoon portion?
A: The provided information doesn’t specify what to bring, but based on the experience, you’ll want a swimsuit, towel, and water shoes or sandals for the rocky areas. Sunscreen is essential. You can rent snorkeling equipment on-site for approximately €3-5.

Q: How physically demanding is this tour?
A: The Cittadella in Victoria involves walking up and down stone alleyways and stairs, which requires moderate fitness. Getting into and out of the boat at the Blue Lagoon can be challenging when sea conditions are rough—you’ll need to jump down and climb back up a bobbing plank. If you have significant mobility limitations, this tour may be difficult.

Q: What’s included in the price, and what costs extra?
A: The $54.42 price includes ferry transportation, minivan transport around Gozo, and admission to the Cittadella. The Blue Lagoon access is included. Extra costs include snorkeling equipment rental (€3-5), food and drinks onboard, and any additional activities you choose to do independently.

Q: What happens if the tour is canceled due to weather?
A: If the tour is canceled due to poor sea conditions, you’ll be offered either a different date or a full refund. The company prioritizes safety and will cancel if conditions are unsafe for ferry operations.

Q: How much time do you actually spend in the Blue Lagoon?
A: You’ll have approximately two hours at the Blue Lagoon, which includes both swimming/snorkeling time and relaxation. Some of this time will be spent traveling to and from the lagoon by boat.

Q: Is air conditioning available throughout the tour?
A: The ferries are fully air-conditioned and modern. However, the minivans used for the Gozo portion aren’t consistently air-conditioned, though the company has indicated they’re working to upgrade to proper buses for this leg.

If you value efficiency, affordability, and the freedom to explore at your own pace, this tour delivers genuine value for a Malta visit with limited time. It’s one of the better ways to see both Gozo and Comino without spending a full day on logistics or burning through your budget. Just go in with realistic expectations—you’re getting access and transportation, not an in-depth guided experience—and you’ll likely find it’s time and money well spent.