What's the weather like in Gozo in January?
Temperature
Whilst January is the coldest month of the year in Gozo, average temperatures of 12°C ensure the weather is still much milder than a lot of regions in Europe.
Approximately 7 hours of sun are to be expected every day of the month. Daily highs can reach up to 15 degrees while, even on the coldest days, average temperatures still climb to approximately 9°C.
Average daily temperatures in Gozo are very slightly lower than more southern resorts in Malta such as Marsaskala and Luqua, however the entire region's weather follows very similar patterns. Resorts further inland do feel the effects of the colder weather slightly more in the winter months. But thanks to its position in the Mediterranean Sea, the climate in Gozo is extremely consistent.
Sea Temperature
The mildness of the weather throughout the year ensures sea temperatures in Gozo are always very pleasant. And though January experiences one of the lowest sea temperatures during the year, it is still a very appealing average 17 °C.
Rain
Gozo does usually experience the second highest number of days of rain in January, only behind December in both volume and number of days, as it sits within Gozo's 'rainy season'. During this period, the overhead sun moves from the Equator to the Tropic of Cancer, producing a change in weather conditions across the region, thereby offering a much wetter climate.
A 51% chance of rain every day in Gozo during January does mean an average 17 days in the month experience some rain fall. However with approximately 89mm of rain expected during the entire month and a 10% chance of a cloudy day, the climate is still very appealing and visibility remains high.
Hotels in Gozo in January
Villagg Tal Fanal
Villagg Tal Fanal is the perfect place to stay if you want to get away from it all without feeling completely isolated. The resort is only five minutes' drive from the Capital City of Victoria, but an array of rustic bungalows and farmhouse themed accommodation ensures you feel completely secluded from the world. The quaint character of the resort and the friendliness of the staff reflect the personality of the entire island, giving everyone that stays there the ability to truly relax.
Choose between one, two or three bedroom bungalows, all of which offer a range of amenities in a clean and comfortable environment. A large swimming pool is available to all the guests, and a fully stocked mini-market is only a short walk away.
Cornucopia Hotel
For a true touch of luxury treat yourself to a stay at the Cornucopia Hotel in Xaghra. Stay in the main hotel and enjoy the luxury of two separate swimming pools or choose to reside in one of the two complexes of terraced bungalows, both of which enjoy their own personal communal swimming areas.
Experience the true flavours of Malta in a lavish array of food from the top quality restaurant and understand exactly how Cornucopia got its name. Sights, sounds and flavours combine with a touch of sheer tranquillity for the hidden gem in Xaghra.
Santa Martha Hostel
If hostelling is more in line with your taste and your budget then the Santa Martha Hostel in the seaside resort of Marsalfom is ideal. Even in January, the range of restaurants, bars and café on the promenade of Marsalfom ensure this fishing village offers a range of different experiences for any traveller, all within a five minute walk.
The hostel itself is basic, but clean and the staff are very friendly. Facilities are offered on a bed and breakfast basis that offers exceptional value. The owners have even provided a small kitchen facility so that residents can prepare their own meals at no extra charge. A local bus provides a direct link to Victoria. But the cooler climate in January also offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy the 20 minute walk to the capital.
Bars and Restaurants
Lucky Jack's
After a day of sight-seeing, Lucky Jack's is the perfect place to kick back. With four state of the art bowling lanes, a bar and grill and lots of friendly staff, it's the ideal way to end the day. Prices inside Lucky Jacks are always very reasonable, and there is plenty of space to sit back and enjoy the atmosphere if you don't want to bowl. The loud music means it's not the place to come for a quiet night of sophisticated entertainment. But for some wholesome fun and a few laughs along the way, it's a great place to be.
Ta' Karolina
Ta' Karolina offers exquisite seafood, exceptional views and incredible service in a very friendly atmosphere that brings out the beauty of the Gotzian region. Sited on the waterfront in the corner of Xlendi Bay, Ta-Karolina may not be everyone's first choice for a restaurant in January, but with parasols to keep off the rain and the warm January air, the experience is not to be missed.
Steak, vegetarian options and a wealth of local wines are all on the menu alongside some incredible seafood dishes, ensuring this restaurant is always popular. Just make sure you book before you go. Even in January, tables are always in short supply.
Things to Do in Gozo in January
Gozo Museum of Archaeology
If the weather does turn against you in January then the Gozo Museum of Archaeology sited in the walls of the Citadel of Victoria is the perfect place to visit. Owned by Heritage Malta, this converted house is a wonderful way to experience the history of the region while keeping dry and warm.
For only a couple of Euros, the friendly staff inside this small museum will give you an insight into how Gozo has developed over the years, with magnificent examples of Roman artefacts and relics which can be dated back as far as 5,000 BC. For even greater value, buy a multi-site ticket known as the 'Malta Pass'. The ticket offers access to a number of museums and places of interest around Gozo at a highly discounted rate.
Xaghra Parish Church
Wherever you are in Xaghra, look to the skyline and you will see the magnificent silhouette of the Xaghra Parish Church. Crafted from limestone, this is still one of the most magnificent buildings to visit in Gozo. The artistic detail and internal decorations are simply divine. And if you feel in the mood, Father Refallo can even marry you there.
The marble walls and ornate paintings, make Xaghra church both inspirational and beautifully relaxing. Time your January trip with the Festa San Anton Abbati, and you will see the entire town celebrate. Just make sure you visit one of the restaurants that surround the edge of the square for a day you will never forget.
Ta'Dbiegi Crafts Village
For a little piece of Gozo to take home, the Ta' Dbiegi Crafts Village in Gharb is where you will find it. Based in the oldest town on the island, the streets of the village are lined with all number of little shops and stalls offering Gotzian crafts made of glass, leather, silver, wax, lace and ceramics.
Ta Qali
Though for the most varied choice of silver, you may want to visit nearby Ta Qali, within the mosaic shop at Ta' Dbiegi, you can enjoy a two hour workshop, showing you how to create your own masterpieces. Take home some Gotzian honey or local salt. And with a friendly café on site, it's the perfect place to go in Gozo.
Malta Amateur Dramatic Club
For a touch of Maltese culture, visit the Malta Amateur Dramatic Club. Based in Valetta, MADC is Malta's oldest theatre company which offers a wide entertainment portfolio for their guests throughout the year. January is the perfect time take in their Christmas pantomime. Whether it's Treasure Island or Aladdin, there is always something on offer to entertain.
