Things To Do
in Kerċem
Kerċem is a small, picturesque village on the island of Gozo in Malta, known for its peaceful rural character, traditional limestone houses, and views over adjacent valleys. It sits close to Ramla Bay and the Dwejra area, making it a convenient base for exploring western Gozo’s natural attractions. The community retains strong local traditions, with chapels, quiet squares, and annual festas that give visitors a taste of authentic Gozitan life.
Kerċem’s compact size and scenic surroundings make it ideal for walkers, photographers, and travelers seeking a slower pace away from busier tourist hubs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Maltese pastries and coffee. Afterward, visit the ancient church of Saint Augustine, known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. Spend some time walking the quaint streets, soaking in the charm of the village.
Enjoy lunch at a family-run restaurant that serves delicious homemade dishes featuring local produce. Post-lunch, take a hiking trail nearby that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including cliffs overlooking the sea. Engage with friendly locals who can share fascinating stories about Kerċem's history.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot to watch the horizon change colors, perhaps near the Ta' Kola Windmill. Dine at a local bistro, sampling fresh seafood paired with regional wines. End your day with a leisurely stroll under the stars, immersing yourself in the tranquility of the Maltese night.
Delve into the rich cultural heritage of Kerċem with a visit to the nearby village of Xewkija to see the famous rotunda. Enjoy a guided tour that explores the history and significance of this architectural marvel. Take time to appreciate the intricate details of its design before heading back for lunch.
After lunch, participate in a Maltese cooking class where you can learn to make traditional dishes such as pastizzi and rabbit stew. This hands-on experience not only indulges your taste buds but also connects you with the culture. Don't forget to take notes on the recipes to recreate your meals back home.
For a unique experience, attend a local festa, where you can witness traditional music and folkloric dances. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and indulge in street food as you mingle with locals and fellow travelers. Wrap up the night with a sweet treat, such as a traditional Maltese honey cake, at a nearby gelateria.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (local) | $6-12 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $70-120 |
| 🎟️Museum/attraction entrance | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic village life and strong local character
- Close to scenic beaches and dramatic coastal features
- Excellent for walking, photography and slow travel
- Lower tourist density than main Maltese hotspots
- Limited nightlife and fewer dining options within the village
- Public transport links are less frequent than on mainland Malta
- Some attractions may require a car or taxi to reach
- Fewer services and shops late at night or in winter
- "Bongu" - Good morning / Hello
- "Grazzi" - Thank you
- "Jekk jogħġbok" - Please
- "Kemm tiswa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Fejn hi ...?" - Where is ...?
Places to Visit in Kerċem
Visit one of these nice places.
Red-sand beach, dunes and elevated viewpoints provide dramatic sunrise and afternoon light; great for wide coastal panoramas.
Rocky cliffs, the Inland Sea and photogenic rock formations offer moody seascapes—best captured at golden hour.
Traditional dry-stone walls, fields and rural chapels make for intimate pastoral shots and close-ups of local architecture.
St. Gregory’s church and village lanes offer opportunities for street photography and capturing everyday Gozitan life.
Food in Kerċem
Kerċem Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Gozitan flatbread sandwich or open-faced bread often filled with tuna, tomatoes, capers, olives and local olive oil; find it at bakeries and delis in Kerċem and nearby towns.
Must-Try!
Small rounds of fresh or aged sheep/goat cheese, often enjoyed with bread or in salads; buy from farm shops or local markets.
Seasonal fish pie made with dolphinfish (lampuki), spinach, and herbs; commonly served in seaside restaurants during the lampuki season (autumn).
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The main market in Gozo’s capital offers fresh produce, cheeses, and baked goods; great for picking up local ingredients and snacks.
During festas and weekends you’ll find street stalls selling grilled sausages, pastries, and sweets—perfect for quick, local bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious events; remove hats in chapels and be respectful during services and festas.
A polite greeting (hello / bonjour / bongu) and a smile go a long way—locals are friendly and conversational. Handshakes are common.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially during private events or inside churches.
Safety
Tipping in Kerċem
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; round up the bill or leave 5–10% in restaurants for good service. Small tips for taxi drivers and hotel staff are common.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger towns and tourist businesses; cash (euros) is useful in villages, markets and small cafés. ATMs available in Victoria (Rabat).
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures are mild and wildflowers bloom across the countryside—excellent for hiking and photography. Busy weekends during Easter and local festas can attract visitors.
Hot, dry and sunny with long daylight hours; best for swimming and coastal activities but expect higher temperatures and more tourists in July–August.
Mild weather and fewer crowds are ideal for walking and exploring; autumn is lampuki (dolphinfish) season for seafood lovers.
Cooler, wetter and quieter—some rural businesses may have reduced hours but you’ll enjoy peaceful landscapes and lower prices.
Kerċem at Night
Hiking in Kerċem
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle hikes through terraced fields leading to Ramla Bay; good for families and birdwatching.
Coastal pathway offering dramatic cliff views, the Inland Sea and interesting rock formations; some exposed sections so caution needed.
High coastal cliffs with sweeping panoramas over the sea and neighboring islands—excellent for sunrise/sunset photography.
A mixed route of village lanes and countryside tracks showcasing rural landscapes and traditional architecture.
Airports
How to reach Kerċem by plane.
Main international airport on Malta island, about 30–40 minutes drive to the Cirkewwa ferry terminal plus a 20–30 minute ferry to Gozo; total transfer time around 1–1.5 hours depending on connections.
Occasional helicopter transfers or private charters can link Gozo and Malta quickly; services are limited and typically private.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-standing Maltese families with strong community ties, often involved in agriculture, fishing and small businesses.
A modest number of expatriates and retirees live on Gozo, attracted to the slower pace and lower density.
Seasonal visitors from Malta and abroad, peaking in summer months and around local festas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Malta and Gozo, with local amateur clubs and community matches often held on weekends.
Swimming, snorkeling, diving and boating are popular along Gozo’s coast, with dive centers operating around the island.
Road cycling and hiking are common recreational activities due to scenic routes and varied terrain.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kerċem.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available—look for dishes centered on fresh salads, pasta, and cheese. Smaller villages might have limited vegetarian-specific menus, so ask staff to adapt dishes.
Vegan choices are more limited but manageable in larger eateries; rely on salads, vegetable sides, and request olive-oil-based preparations. Bring snacks for rural outings.
Awareness of gluten-free needs is growing; many bakeries offer gluten-free products in Victoria, and restaurants can usually accommodate with notice.