From Sliema: Best of Gozo & Comino (CMO)

Exploring the Best of Gozo & Comino from Sliema: An Honest Look

If you’re thinking about taking a day trip to Malta’s nearby islands, the Best of Gozo & Comino tour is a popular choice. It promises a mix of stunning scenery, historical sights, and relaxing swims in clear waters—all packed into one day. While it sounds like a dream, it’s worth looking at what you’re really signing up for before booking.

What we like about this tour is how smoothly it combines different experiences—ferries, shuttles, boat rides, and free time. Plus, the chance to see the Blue Lagoon and explore Gozo‘s charming streets makes it feel like a well-rounded adventure. One thing to consider, though, is that some aspects of the day can be quite rushed, and the experience might not cater perfectly to those seeking a more in-depth visit.

This tour suits travelers who want a straightforward, efficient way to get a taste of Malta’s sister islands without too much hassle. If you’re after a relaxing day with plenty of photo ops and natural beauty, it could fit the bill. But if you’re looking for a deeply cultural or leisurely experience, you might want to look elsewhere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Scenic boat trips and visits to iconic spots like Blue Lagoon.
• Hassle-free logistics with ferry and shuttle included.
• Limited free time in Gozo, so don’t expect to explore in depth.
• Good for first-timers wanting a compact overview of the islands.
• Potential for crowds at popular spots, especially in peak seasons.
• Some reviews mention feeling a bit rushed or lacking local guide insights.

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed as a one-day adventure, starting from Sliema, with a schedule that balances sightseeing with swimming and relaxing. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a seamless, all-in-one experience without stressing over logistics.

The day begins with a ferry ride from Sliema to Gozo, setting the tone with a scenic crossing over the water. Once you arrive at Mgarr port, a shuttle takes you to the Cittadella in Rabat, where you get about three hours of self-guided exploration. That’s enough time to wander around the historic walls, snap photos, or grab a local snack, depending on your pace.

Afterward, you hop back onto the ferry for a short trip to Comino. Here, the highlight is the Blue Lagoon, famous for its incredibly clear waters. You’ll have around an hour of free time to swim, snorkel, or just lounge on the boat, soaking up the sun.

The return journey involves another ferry and shuttle, bringing you back to Sliema, completing what is mostly a relaxing, scenic, and varied day.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: Sliema Ferries

The tour kicks off from Sliema Ferries, which is a convenient departure point for many travelers staying in the area. Expect to be aboard the boat relatively early, considering the tour’s schedule.

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Blue Lagoon: A Crystal-Clear Escape

Your first stop on the water is the Blue Lagoon in Comino, often the star of such trips. The water here is famously transparent, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. You’ll spend about 100 minutes enjoying the scenery. Many reviews, including one from Rosalba, mention the beautiful views but also note that some guide services are less involved; in her case, the guide didn’t speak much beyond ticket sales.

Gozo: A Brief Land Visit

Next, you’re taken to Gozo, where you’ll have about three hours to explore on your own. The highlight is the visit to the Cittadella—a fortress with panoramic views and a chance to see the island’s historic architecture. While you get free time, keep in mind that this isn’t an in-depth tour. You’re free to wander, but the limited time means you might need to prioritize your sights.

Comino: Relax and Refresh

The final stop is Comino, where you get about one hour of free time. Most people use this to swim in the Blue Lagoon or take photos of the rugged coastline. It’s a quick visit, but it leaves a lasting impression thanks to the stunning waters.

Ending the Day

From there, it’s back on the ferry and shuttle to return to Sliema. The whole trip lasts roughly one day, with the flexibility of checking availability for starting times.

Transportation and Logistics

One of the main benefits of this tour is how organized it is. The ferry rides are included, which takes away the hassle of planning your own crossings. The shuttle service from Mgarr port to the Cittadella and back simplifies transportation on land, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

However, timings are tight—you have limited hours to explore each location, so you need to be comfortable with a bit of a rushed schedule. The experience is designed to give you a snapshot rather than a detailed tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a convenient and scenic overview of Malta’s neighboring islands, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially good if you want to visit Blue Lagoon and get a taste of Gozo’s charm without the hassle of organizing multiple transport links yourself.

Travelers who enjoy short but sweet visits and don’t mind a busy day will find it satisfying. However, if you’re looking for a more in-depth island experience or want to spend more time exploring at your own pace, you might find this tour a bit too rushed.

The Practicalities and Price

This tour includes ferry trips, shuttle services, and a boat cruise, which helps justify the cost. It offers a stress-free way to see multiple highlights in a single day. That said, some reviews hint that the value can depend on your expectations—if you’re hoping for in-depth guided insights, you might find the experience somewhat limited.

The price reflects the convenience, but it’s worth considering whether you prefer a full day of guided tours or a more relaxed, flexible visit.

Authentic Opinions from Travelers

One reviewer, Rosalba, shared that “The trip was beautiful, it’s a shame that we booked with an Italian guide who then didn’t take part.” She felt that the guide’s involvement was minimal, and much of the commentary was limited to ticket sales and basic info. This highlights that some aspects of the experience can feel a bit impersonal or rushed, especially if you’re expecting more guided commentary.

Others appreciate the stunning views and the easy logistics, making it a good choice for first-time visitors or those wanting a quick overview.

Final Thoughts

This Best of Gozo & Comino tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, history, and relaxation in a single day. The inclusion of ferry rides, shuttle services, and free time in iconic spots makes it a practical option for travelers seeking simplicity. While some may find the schedule a little tight, the stunning waters and scenic locations make the effort worthwhile.

If you’re someone who enjoys beautiful landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and a convenient way to see multiple islands in one go, this tour could be a good fit. Just be prepared for a busy day with limited time to linger, and keep expectations aligned with a snapshot experience rather than a deep dive.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people who want a relaxing day?
It’s more of a packed day trip with many stops; if you enjoy a leisurely pace, you might find it a bit rushed, especially in Gozo.

Are there guided comments during the trip?
The tour features a live guide in English and Italian, but some reviews mention that the guide’s involvement was minimal, mainly focusing on ticket sales and basic information.

How much free time do I have in each location?
You get about two hours in Gozo for self-guided exploration and one hour in Comino for swimming or relaxing.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
Most travelers agree that the Blue Lagoon’s stunning waters are the biggest draw, perfect for swimming and photos.

Is the ferry ride comfortable?
Yes, the ferry rides are included and generally considered scenic and comfortable, helping you enjoy the water views without extra hassle.

Can I explore Gozo on my own?
Yes, the tour provides free time in Gozo, giving you a chance to wander at your own pace within the allotted hours.

Will I get detailed historical info?
Not necessarily—this is more of a highlight tour with self-guided exploration and limited guided commentary.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
According to the info, yes, it is wheelchair accessible, but it’s always good to double-check specific needs with the provider.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sun protection, and some snacks or water. The water in Blue Lagoon is perfect for swimming, so don’t forget your gear.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes, especially for Comino, as new regulations mean you must secure a ticket through the official website. Booking early also helps ensure availability for your preferred time slot.

Whether you’re after a quick escape, a photo-filled day, or just want to tick off the must-see spots in Malta’s nearby islands, this tour offers a practical way to do it. Just keep your expectations aligned with a full but busy day and remember that some parts may feel more rushed than relaxed.

You can check availability for your dates here: