Victoria, also known as Rabat, is the capital of Gozo. The name Rabat is the more traditional one, having been in use since the time of the Phoenicians. At the end of the 19th century, the town was renamed Victoria – the name used today – in honour of the 25th anniversary of Queen Victoria’s reign.

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It has a population of just 7,000, yet it is still the most populous town on Gozo. Victoria is strategically located in the centre of the island, which is why it has become a hub for services, administration, education and healthcare.

Cittadella

The dominant feature of Victoria is the Cittadella, which towers over the town from a hilltop and is the biggest tourist attraction in this historic town. From the ramparts of the Cittadella, you’ll be treated to a unique view of virtually the whole of Gozo. Interestingly, it is from here that you can see the sea in every direction. On a clear day, you can even see as far as neighbouring Sicily.

The history of the Cittadella dates back to the 9th century, when the Arabs were involved in its construction. In the 16th century, it was severely damaged during a Turkish raid. Medieval Cittadella will captivate you with its well-preserved fortifications and charming narrow stone streets.

As you enter the complex, you cannot fail to notice the small square with the cathedral, which took on its Baroque appearance in the early 18th century.

Admission and opening hours

You can walk around the Cittadella for free; allow at least an hour to explore the free sections.

The citadel’s narrow streets and ramparts are open 24/7.

You only need to pay an admission fee to enter the Visitor Centre and all the museums at (Museum of Archeology, Gran Castello Historic House, Nature Museum, Old Prison, Citadel Visitor Centre). An adult ticket costs €5and can be purchased on site or online at heritagemalta.mt.

Victoria city centre

Just below the walls of the Citadel lies the centre of Victoria, centred around Republic Street and Independence Square, where, amongst other things, the official tourist information centre is located. The square is dominated by St James’s Church, lush greenery and, in the mornings, traditional markets.

Near the square, don’t forget to visit the 17th-century Baroque Basilica of St George. Admission is free. As well as the Cittadella, whilst wandering around Victoria you’ll come across plenty of churches dating from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Accommodation in Victoria

Victoria is the centre of the island of Gozo, from where all bus routes fan out in all directions towards the coast. It therefore seems the best place to stay if you won’t be hiring a car on Gozo.

In Victoria, you’ll mainly find smaller guesthouses, apartments and boutique hotels with prices ranging from 60 eur to 80 eur. We’ve selected the best-rated accommodation in the centre of Victoria.

• The Duke Boutique Hotel
• St George of Lydda B&B
• Alina Boutique Living

Transport and parking

Right in the centre, you’ll find the central bus station (location on google.com/maps). Almost all bus routes to Gozo start and end here; you can find more information in the Transport section.

There are two free car parks near the bus station, and you can also park for free along all the streets in Victoria.

However, it is common to spend more than 20 minutes looking for a free parking space and to end up having to park on the outskirts of the city and walk to the Citadel.

What to see around

Discover all the places to see in Gozo.