Xagħra Village Guide: Explore Gozo’s History, Culture, and Coastal Beauty

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Welcome to Xagħra (pronounced Shara), a picturesque village perched on a hill in the northeast of Gozo. Known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant community, Xagħra offers a blend of ancient wonders and modern charm. Whether you’re here to explore the world’s oldest freestanding temples, relax on golden sandy beaches, or immerse yourself in Gozitan culture, Xagħra has something for everyone.

• Where to stay in Xagħra

• How to get to Xagħra

• Where to eat and drink in Xagħra

• Things to do in Xagħra

• How to get around Xagħra

• When to visit Xagħra

• Plan your trip to Xagħra

Where to Stay in Victoria, Gozo

Xagħra offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every preference. For a boutique hotel experience, consider The Segond Hotel , which provides four-star comfort in a fantastic location, or Il-Logga Boutique Hotel, renowned for its stunning sea and city views and a breakfast so exceptional it’s mentioned in nearly every review. If you prefer self-sufficiency, Xagħra boasts plenty of traditional farmhouses and villas that offer a glimpse into authentic Gozitan life, paired with modern amenities like air conditioning and swimming pools. For those seeking something more contemporary, the village also has numerous self-catering holiday apartments, ideal for families or longer stays, offering both flexibility and great value.

How to Get to Xagħra

Getting to Xagħra is straightforward. Although you need to get to Gozo first. To help you with that, we've put together a comprehensive guide on how to get to Gozo. The key points of which are:

• Gozo Channel Ferry (Cirkewwa to Mgarr): 25-minute ride departing every 30-45 minutes. The only choice if you have a hired a car on Malta.

• Gozo Highspeed Ferry (Valletta to Mgarr): A 45-minute option for foot passengers only.

Both ferries take you to the beautiful Mgarr Harbour. From there you can easily get a taxi, hire a car or take a public transport.

By Bus: 322 runs from Mġarr Ferry Terminal directly to Xagħra. Else, you can get the 301 or 303 to Victoria, and then take the 307.

By Taxi: Order an Uber or a Bolt from the the ferry terminal, it should take only around 15 - 20 minutes.

By Car: Renting a car is a convenient option, with ample parking available in the village.

Where to Eat and Drink in Xagħra

As one of the large villages on Gozo, Xagħra is blessed with plenty of places to eat and drink. Take a wander into the village square and you really can't go much wrong with wherever you pick. These are some of our favourites though.

Oleander Restaurant: A local favourite serving traditional Maltese dishes with a modern twist in a converted farmhouse setting.

Café Reale: Located in Victory Square, it's perfect for breakfast, coffee, or homemade cakes with outdoor seating offering lovely views of the basilica.

Latini Wine & Dine: Offers excellent Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

Tal-Furnar Bakery & Restaurant: Famous for its traditional Maltese ftira bread and hearty meat dishes, all cooked in a hundred year-old stone oven.

Ta Frenc: A Michelin-recommended fine dining restaurant set in a 17th-century farmhouse, a Gozo institution.

Things to Do in Xagħra

Xagħra stands out as a must-visit destination for its extraordinary historical significance. Home to the UNESCO World Heritage Ġgantija Temples dating back to 3600 BC, it's a paradise for history enthusiasts. The village's strategic location provides easy access to Ramla Bay with its distinctive red sand, while its elevated position offers breathtaking panoramic views across Gozo.

Ġgantija Temples: Explore these UNESCO-listed megalithic temples, older than the pyramids.

Ta’ Kola Windmill: Step back in time at this restored 18th-century windmill turned folklore museum. If you are planning on visiting the Temples and the Windmill, we recommend investigating the Malta Pass.

Ninu’s Cave & Xerri’s Grotto: Marvel at stunning stalactites and stalagmites in these underground wonders, both of which are accessed via private houses.

Calypso’s Cave: According to folklore, the very location where the nymph kept Odysseus captive for seven years. Unfortunately closed for safety reasons, you can still visit the viewing platform and take in the spectacular view of Ramla Bay.

Ramla Bay Beach: Relax on Gozo’s largest sandy beach with its distinctive red sand. A very popular place during the summer, it offers everything you need for a great day at the beach. It's also where you might spot Nature Trust Volunteers guarding a turtle nest, or two, between June and October.

Gozo Toy Museum: Delight in a nostalgic collection of antique toys.

If you're visiting later in the summer, don’t miss the annual Xagħra Feast on 8th September, a vibrant celebration coinciding with Malta’s Victory Day.

How to get around Xagħra

Xagħra is compact and easy to navigate on foot, and is one of the best villages for any visitors with limited mobility. Most attractions are within a 15-minute walk from Victory Square, and for trips further afield, buses are reliable and affordable, while taxis or car rentals offer added convenience.

When to Visit Xagħra

Xagħra is a year-round destination, but each season has its charm:

• Spring (March–May): Ideal for outdoor activities amid blooming wildflowers.

• Summer (June–August): Perfect for beach lovers but expect higher temperatures and crowds.

• Autumn (September–November): Enjoy mild weather and fewer tourists; don’t miss the village feast on 8th September!

• Winter (December–February): A peaceful time to explore historical sites at your own pace.

Plan your trip to Xagħra

Here are some tips to make the most of your visit:

• Book accommodation early during peak seasons like summer or festa celebrations.

• Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring historical sites and countryside trails.

• Use apps like Tallinja for bus schedules or Bolt for taxis.

• Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Marsalforn Bay or the Citadel in Victoria.

Xagħra is more than just a village—it’s an experience that blends history, culture, and natural beauty into one unforgettable destination. Whether you’re marvelling at ancient temples, enjoying local delicacies in Victory Square, or basking on Ramla Bay’s golden sands, Xagħra promises memories that will last a lifetime.

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