Discover Marsalforn: Gozo's Charming Seaside Resort

Nestled on the picturesque northeastern coast, and once the most important port on Gozo with boats regularly arriving from Sciliy, Marsalforn is one of the most popular places to stay on the island. Its name comes from ‘Marsa’, meaning port in Arabic, with 'Forn, deriving from a type of vessel, probably a Liburna, which is 'lifurna' in Arabic.

Over recent years Marsalforn has transformed from a quaint fishing village into a vibrant seaside resort. Today, this charming town, with its crystal-clear waters, scenic promenade and colourful luzzu (traditional Maltese fishing boats) bobbing in the harbour, has become a firm favourite destination for both locals and tourists seeking a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Table of contents

• How to get to Marsalforn

• Where to Stay in Marsalforn

• Where to Eat in Marsalforn

• When to Visit Marsalforn

• Things to Do in Marsalforn

• Plan Your Trip to Marsaforn

• Don't Miss this in Marsalforn!

How to Get to Marsalforn

Your journey to Marsalforn begins with a picturesque ferry crossing from Malta to Gozo. Our comprehensive guide on travelling to Gozo provides all the details you'll need for this part of your trip, including ferry schedules, ticket options, and tips for a smooth crossing.

Upon arrival at Mġarr Harbour on Gozo, you have two convenient options for reaching Marsalforn:

Direct Bus (More Frequent in Summer): Route 322 provides a direct connection from Mġarr Harbour to Marsalforn. While this service operates year-round, buses run much more frequently during the peak summer season (May-September), making it an especially convenient choice during those months.

Connecting Buses: Alternatively, you can take bus routes 301, 303, or 323 to Victoria (Rabat), Gozo's capital city, and then easily connect to route 310, which will take you directly to Marsalforn.

Taxi: Marsalforn is about a 15 to 20 minute drive away from Mgarr and there are usually plenty of Bolt, Uber and eCab cars available to book once you arrive on Gozo. White Taxis are also usually readily available outside the Gozo Channel Ferry terminal too.

Car Rental: Renting a car at Mġarr Harbour provides the greatest flexibility for exploring Gozo at your own pace. This allows you to easily reach Marsalforn and discover other hidden gems across the island.

Parking in Marsalforn: If you choose to drive, a spacious car park is located just minutes from the waterfront, making parking relatively hassle-free.

Where to Stay in Marsalforn

Marsalforn offers a diverse range of accommodation to suit various budgets and preferences:

Marsalforn Hotels

Calypso Hotel: Located directly on the seafront, the Calypso Hotel offers stunning views of the bay, along with a restaurant and a swimming pool for a relaxing stay.

Murella Living: For a more contemporary experience, consider Murella Living. This stylish apart-hotel offers modern amenities, a tranquil garden, and a convenient breakfast service.

Self-Catering in Marsalforn

For those seeking more independence and flexibility, self-catering options are a popular choice:

Hillock Residence: These modern apartments with private pools offer a touch of luxury and privacy for a comfortable stay.

Atlantis Holiday Suites: Enjoy breathtaking sea views from your own private balcony, conveniently located on the waterfront a short walk from the main hustle and bustle of the promenade.

Traditional Farmhouses

For a truly authentic Gozitan experience, consider staying in a converted farmhouse or villa in the nearby countryside. These charming properties offer a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle.

Where to Eat in Marsalforn

Marsalforn offers visitors a multitude of options with a culinary scene is as vibrant as its harbour. There are so many restaurants along the promenade that are all great, it's difficult to pick our favourites, but here are some top choices.

Breakfast Spots

Alive Bistro: Start your day with a healthy and delicious breakfast at Alive Bistro, known for its wellness-focused menu featuring smoothies, fresh juices, and vegan treats.

Coffee Circus Joy: For a caffeine fix and freshly baked pastries, head to Coffee Circus Joy, a local favourite known for its specialty coffee and delicious treats.

Lunch and Dinner

From fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen to traditional Gozitan cuisine and Mediterranean dishes with a modern twist, Marsalforn's restaurants cater to all tastes, and most offer wonderful outdoor seating with a great view of the harbour.

Il-Kartell: Indulge in fresh, locally caught seafood and signature pasta dishes at Il-Kartell, a popular choice for seafood lovers. Booking is highly recommended during the summer.

Otters: One of our regular haunts when we visit Marsalforn. Part of the water polo club (a very popular sport on both Gozo and Malta), Otters has a great view, a varied menu and very welcoming staff.

Qbajjar Restaurant: Experience the diverse flavours of Mediterranean cuisine and sample local Gozitan specialties at the very popular Qbajjar Restaurant.

Things to Do in Marsalforn

There's plenty to do in Marsalforn, especially if you love being in or on the sea, or hiking.

Swimming: Take a refreshing dip in the clear, inviting waters of Marsalforn Bay. The beach offers designated swimming areas for safe and enjoyable swimming. There's also a small sandy area near the police station that's ideal for families with young children.

Diving and Snorkelling: Marsalforn is a renowned diving destination, with several PADI-certified diving schools offering courses and guided dives to explore the rich underwater world. Għar Qawqla, a rocky outcrop near the bay, is a popular spot for snorkelling, offering excellent opportunities to observe local marine life.

Boat Trips: Explore the stunning Gozitan coastline and the nearby island of Comino with its famous Blue Lagoon by taking a boat trip from Marsalforn Harbour.

Xwejni Salt Pans: Witness the traditional salt harvesting process at the Xwejni Salt Pans, a unique and fascinating site located just a short walk from Marsalforn. The best time to see the salt pans in action is from May to August.

Explore the Fishing Port: Take a stroll along the harbour and observe the local fishermen bringing in their daily catch, offering a glimpse into Gozo's traditional way of life.

Wied il-Ghasri Valley Walks: For nature enthusiasts, a walk from Marsalforn to the scenic Wied il-Ghasri valley is a must. This dramatic gorge leads down to a secluded inlet, offering stunning views and a peaceful escape. It's also a wonderful place to swim, if you can face the staircase down, and back-up, to the small pebble beach.

Tas-Salvatur Hill: Hike up Tas-Salvatur Hill to see the impressive statue of The Risen Christ, reminiscent of Brazil's Christ the Redeemer, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.

When to Visit

Marsalforn is a beautiful destination year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences:

• Peak Season (June-September): During the summer months, Marsalforn comes alive with a vibrant atmosphere. All restaurants and businesses are typically open, and regular events and festivals take place. This is also when the sea is warmest for swimming. Expect larger crowds during this time.

• Shoulder Season (April-May, October-November): The shoulder seasons offer a perfect balance of pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and more affordable accommodation rates. These months also provide excellent conditions for diving, with calmer seas and better underwater visibility.

• Winter (November-March): While the weather is milder than in many other European destinations, some restaurants and businesses may have reduced hours, or be closed, during the winter months. However, this can be a great time to enjoy a peaceful and relaxing getaway and experience a different side of Gozo.

Plan Your Trip

To make the most of your trip to Marsalforn, here are a few essential tips:

• Book Accommodation Early: If you plan to visit during July and August, it is highly recommended to book your accommodation well in advance, as places tend to fill up quickly.

• Make Restaurant Reservations: During the peak season, it's also advisable to make restaurant reservations, especially for popular establishments.

• Bring Water Shoes: The beaches in Marsalforn are mostly pebbly, so bringing water shoes will make entering and exiting the water much more comfortable.

• Check Bus Timetables: If you plan to use public transport, check bus timetables in advance to plan your journeys effectively.

Local Insights:

• Xwejni Salt Pans in the Morning: Visit the Xwejni Salt Pans early in the morning to capture the beautiful light and see the salt pans at their most picturesque.

• Wednesday Evening Jam Sessions at Crab Shell Kiosk : If you're in Marsalforn on a Wednesday evening, head to the Crab Shell for lively jam sessions and a fun atmosphere.

• Sunset Walks Along the Promenade: Enjoy a relaxing sunset stroll along the Marsalforn promenade, taking in the beautiful views of the harbour and the Mediterranean Sea.

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