The Blue Grotto is one of Malta’s natural gems, a must-see destination for any traveler in search of wild beauty and adventure. Comprising a series of seven caves located in Zurrieq, on the island’s south coast, the Blue Grotto is a veritable spectacle of nature. Its name comes from the azure reflections of its translucent waters on the cave walls, a breathtaking natural spectacle, particularly visible during the day.
What to do in Blue Grotto
Boat excursions
As nature and travel lovers, we were lucky enough to enjoy a unique experience during our recent visit to Malta: a boat trip to Blue Grotto. We’d like to share with you the magical moments we experienced during this unforgettable adventure.
From the charming port of Wied iz-Zurrieq, we boarded a“dghajsa“, the traditional Maltese boat. This picturesque boat took us through the blue waters, skirting dizzying cliffs and entering mysterious caves.
Among the many caves we explored, the Grotte de la Réflexion was a particular highlight. Its name comes from the spellbinding reflections that the water casts on its rocky walls, creating an absolutely fascinating light show. We were mesmerized by the dance of light that played out on the cave walls, a palette of colors ranging from intense blue to emerald green, creating a superb spectacle.
It’s important to note that, like any outdoor adventure, this tour comes with its share of challenges. Weather conditions can be changeable, and excursions may have to be cancelled in the event of rough seas. What’s more, the “dghajsa” are small boats, which could be uncomfortable for those prone to seasickness. However, we sincerely believe that the beauty and magic of this experience far outweigh these minor inconveniences.
Our boat trip to the Blue Grotto lasted about 30 minutes, but the memories you’ll make seem to extend far beyond that. It’s an experience we recommend without hesitation.
Blue Grotto boat tour prices
Visiting the Blue Grotto by boat is pretty accessible. For the boat trip, fares vary slightly depending on the season, but expect to pay around 8-10 euros per adult and 4-5 euros per child.
Please note that there are no ATMs at Wied iz-Zurrieq, the pier from which boats depart for the Blue Grotto. It is therefore advisable to bring enough cash to cover the costs of the visit.
Diving
The Blue Grotto is a diver’s paradise. The wreck of the Um El Faroud oil tanker, sunk in 1998, has become one of Malta’s most popular dive sites. Resting at a depth of around 35 metres, the tanker’s imposing structure and the marine life that has taken refuge there make for a striking sight. Experienced divers will be delighted to explore this unique site. For beginners, the Wied iz-Zurrieq reef offers a variety of fish and invertebrates, including barracuda, cuttlefish and moray eels.
For more information on diving in Malta, click here.
Swimming
Although direct bathing from the caves is not recommended due to the rocky walls, on a boat trip during high season, it is possible to dive into the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. The waters are generally calm and clear, allowing you to admire the seabed and coral formations while cooling off.
Hiking
There’s more to the Blue Grotto than a simple boat trip to discover its majestic caves. For walkers and nature lovers, hiking trails lead to unspoilt spots. Here you can picnic and enjoy the tranquility of the coves. You can also swim in complete peace of mind.
These hiking trails, stretching along the steep coastline, offer panoramic views of the Mediterranean sea and the diversity of local flora and fauna. It’s an exceptional way to immerse yourself in the Maltese landscape and discover lesser-known but equally enchanting aspects of the Blue Grotto.
Good to know: With the My Little Malta discount card, enjoy 15% off these excursions. Click here to learn more.
Water sports in Blue Grotto
At Blue Grotto, you can also enjoy other water sports such as paddleboarding and jet-skiing. Book online in advance via the links below to ensure availability.
Our tips for visiting Blue Grotto
Schedule selection
For optimal light conditions that will enhance the reflections in the caves, opt fora morning visit to the Blue Grotto.
Choice of outfit
Don’t forget to dress appropriately for sailing and swimming, weather permitting.
Secure your belongings
Be aware of the risk of getting your personal items wet, especially in rough seas. Appropriate protection for your electronic devices and papers is recommended.
Avoid sunburn
The sun can be particularly strong at sea, with little shade on board. Don’t forget your sun protection to avoid burns.
Getting to Blue Grotto
Organized trips to Blue Grotto
Taking a day trip can be a great way to make the most of your time. You can visit some of the must-see places in southern Malta in just one day. Here are the excursions you can book with complete peace of mind:
By bus
Travelling by bus is an economical and environmentally-friendly way to get to the Blue Grotto.
If you’re planning to visit the surrounding area of the Blue Grotto at the same time, we recommend taking the tourist bus. It will enable you to stop at points of interest in the south of the island more easily than the public bus.
Take bus number 74 from Valletta will get you to the site in around 45 minutes to an hour. The bus is certainly slower than the cab or car, but it has the advantage of being more affordable(2 euros/person), which is an important criterion for travelers on a tight budget.
By cab
If comfort and speed are your main concerns, then taking a cab or using a VTC app like eCabs is the way to go. A cab ride from Valletta to the Blue Grotto usually takes between 20 and 30 minutes, which is ideal if you’re short of time. These services offer quick and easy booking , making your trip stress-free. However, bear in mind that the cost of a cab or VTC will be higher than that of a bus, and that fares can fluctuate depending on traffic and the time of day.
By car
Finally, if you value independence and flexibility, renting a car may be your best option. By car, you can reach the Blue Grotto from Valletta in around 20-30 minutes. Renting a car costs an average of 35 euros a day, but gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace, stopping along the way to discover other places of interest.