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Victoria
Gozo's main town and the centre of the island. Explore the Citadel, narrow streets, cafés, shops and the surrounding historic neighbourhoods.
Explore Victoria →Villages of Gozo
Gozo is made up of villages and small communities, each with its own character, streets, churches, squares and local traditions. Exploring them is one of the best ways to see a different side of the island beyond its beaches and archaeological sites.
Some villages are centred around large parish churches and lively squares, while others are quieter communities surrounded by countryside. Together they give Gozo much of its distinctive identity.
Use this guide to explore the villages of Gozo and discover places worth stopping for a walk, a meal, a coffee or simply a look around.
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The villages of Gozo
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Xagħra
A historic hilltop village close to Ġgantija, with a large village square and an important collection of archaeological and traditional sites.
Explore Xagħra →
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Nadur
A large eastern Gozo village overlooking the countryside and coast, known for its parish church, traditions and strong local character.
Explore Nadur →
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Għarb
One of Gozo's western villages, with traditional limestone buildings, quiet streets and easy access to some of the island's best-known countryside and coast.
Explore Għarb →
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Qala
Gozo's easternmost village, with wide views towards Comino and Malta and access to several coastal viewpoints and countryside walks.
Explore Qala →
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Għajnsielem
The village above Mġarr Harbour, making it an important arrival point for visitors coming to Gozo by ferry.
Explore Għajnsielem →
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Sannat
A southern Gozo village close to the Ta' Ċenċ plateau and cliffs, with surrounding countryside and some of the island's most dramatic landscapes.
Explore Sannat →
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Xewkija
Home to the enormous Rotunda of St John the Baptist, Xewkija is one of Gozo's most recognisable villages.
Explore Xewkija →
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Żebbuġ
A northern village with traditional character and close connections to the countryside and coast around Marsalforn and Xwejni.
Explore Żebbuġ →
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Munxar
A small southern community beside some of Gozo's most spectacular coastal scenery, including the Sanap Cliffs.
Explore Munxar →
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Kerċem
A peaceful village west of Victoria, surrounded by countryside and close to the valleys and landscapes around Lunzjata and the western side of the island.
Explore Kerċem →
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San Lawrenz
A western village close to Dwejra, Fungus Rock and the dramatic coast of Gozo.
Explore San Lawrenz →Village life in Gozo
Gozo's villages are not simply tourist attractions. They are working communities where people live, shop, meet and take part in local traditions throughout the year.
The best way to experience them is often to leave the main road, walk through the centre and spend a little time in the village square.
What to see in Gozo's villages
Parish churches are often the visual centre of a Gozitan village. Around them you may find traditional limestone houses, small chapels, bakeries, cafés, restaurants and village squares.
Some villages also provide access to countryside paths, archaeological sites, viewpoints and coastal walks, making them useful starting points for exploring more than just the built-up area.
Villages and local food
Village centres are also good places to discover Gozo's food culture. Local bakeries, cafés, restaurants and small shops provide opportunities to try traditional bread, pastizzi, ġbejniet and other local produce.
Explore the Gozo food guide to discover more.
Frequently asked questions
How many villages are there in Gozo?
Gozo is made up of a number of villages and local communities, each with its own parish, centre and surrounding countryside. The exact way communities are counted can vary depending on the administrative definition being used.
Which is the main town of Gozo?
Victoria is the main town and administrative centre of Gozo. It is also home to the Citadel and the island's principal urban centre.
Which Gozo villages are worth visiting?
All of Gozo's villages have their own character. Victoria, Xagħra, Nadur, Għarb, Qala, Għajnsielem, Sannat, Xewkija, Żebbuġ, Munxar, Kerċem and San Lawrenz are useful starting points for exploring different parts of the island.
Can I visit Gozo villages without a car?
Yes. Many villages can be reached by public transport, and walking or cycling can be a good way to explore their centres and surrounding countryside.
Which Gozo villages are near the coast?
Several villages have close connections with the coast, including Qala, Għajnsielem, Nadur, Żebbuġ, Għarb, San Lawrenz, Munxar and Sannat.
Explore Gozo
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