Comino

Comino is not a city in the traditional sense, but a wonderful tiny island nestled between the two giants of the archipelago: the island of Gozo and the mainland of Malta. This picturesque piece of land, spanning just 3.5 km², is a true oasis of silence and seclusion in the heart of the Mediterranean. There are no noisy metropolises, traffic jams, or hustle here—only pristine nature and a sense of absolute freedom.

The island's uniqueness lies in its atmosphere and demographics: the permanent population of Comino barely exceeds four people. The entire island has the status of a nature reserve, where time seems to slow down. The climate here is typically Mediterranean, with plenty of sunny days, allowing you to enjoy the scent of wild herbs and the sea breeze almost all year round. It is an ideal place for those looking for peace away from civilization.

Despite its modest size and lack of administrative functions, Comino's history is quite fascinating, as the island served as a refuge and a strategic point for centuries. Today, the main point of attraction for travelers is the famous Blue Lagoon. The water here is breathtaking with its incredible shades of azure and turquoise, making the bay one of the most beautiful in Europe. The island has become a true paradise for snorkeling, diving, and long hikes along its rocky shores.

Comino can be explored on foot in just 4–5 hours, discovering picturesque views and hidden coves along the way. If you dream of an open-air picnic or simply want to enjoy the crystal-clear sea without the city bustle, a trip to this small island will be an unforgettable part of your journey.

The island's climate features a pronounced seasonality characteristic of the Mediterranean. If you are planning a trip, it is useful to know what weather in Comino awaits you in different months. Summer here is traditionally hot and dry: in July and August, the average temperature is about 26–27°C, and the number of rainy days is minimized (0–1 days), creating ideal conditions for a beach holiday.

With the arrival of autumn and winter, the temperature gradually decreases but remains quite mild. In January and February, the thermometer stays around 14°C. During this period, nature comes alive thanks to the moisture: the highest number of days with precipitation is recorded in November and December—from 10 to 12 days per month.

Expect a warm, sunny summer with virtually no precipitation and mild winters with occasional rain.

Beyond its primary natural beauty, Comino holds many fascinating secrets and historical details that often escape tourists' attention. This tiny piece of land possesses a rich past and a unique atmosphere full of legends and cinematic fame.

• The island's name was no accident: it is linked to the spice cumin (zira), which was once grown here in abundance. In Maltese, the island is called "Kemmuna." During the time of the Knights of the Order of St. John, this territory was a protected hunting ground home to wild boars and rabbits, and poaching was punished severely.

• Comino is a true movie star of the Mediterranean. The picturesque St Mary's Tower, built in the 17th century for protection against corsairs, served as the setting for the Château d'If in the film adaptation of "The Count of Monte Cristo" (2002). The island also served as a backdrop for epic scenes in the Hollywood blockbuster "Troy."

• It is one of the least populated places in Europe, where you can feel like a real Robinson Crusoe. There is only one hotel on the island (and even then, only during the season), and fans of wild camping can stay in the only permitted spot—the campsite at Santa Marija Bay.

• The island is shrouded in mysticism and lore. Local legends say that the rocky shores and caves of Comino hide ancient pirate treasures and tangled underground passages, and at night, you can allegedly encounter the ghosts of medieval knights guarding their domain.

Since Comino is a small island, it is impossible to reach it directly by plane or train. The journey will always include a water crossing. You can find all the ways to get to the city and the island on our dedicated page, and below we will look at the nearest transport hubs.

The main point of arrival for most tourists is Malta International Airport (MLA). It is the only airport in the country, located in Valletta (specifically, in the municipality of Luqa), approximately 21 km from Comino. This is a major aviation hub receiving flights from all over Europe. A trip from the airport to the ferry crossing by taxi or bus will take about 52 minutes. From there, you will have a short journey by boat or ferry directly to the island.

Alternatively, you can consider Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA), located in the Italian city of Catania on the island of Sicily. It is about 174 km from Comino. This is a major international airport that may be convenient for transit travelers. However, it should be noted that the journey from Catania will require a ferry crossing to Malta or an internal flight, which will significantly increase travel time compared to a direct flight to Malta.

For convenience, here is a summary of the main airports:

There is no direct rail connection to Comino. The nearest major station is on mainland Italy—Reggio di Calabria Centrale Station (RCC) in the city of Reggio di Calabria. It is located approximately 260 km from Comino. Getting there is only possible with transfers: first by ferry to Sicily, then to Malta, and finally to Comino. This route is only suitable for lovers of long and complex journeys.

Below is information about the nearest railway station:

Despite its miniature size, the island of Comino offers travelers several impressive locations worth visiting to experience the spirit of this secluded place. Here, natural beauty is harmoniously intertwined with the historical heritage of the knights' era.

One of the island's most prominent buildings is the majestic St Mary's Tower. This fort was erected by the Knights of the Order of St. John in the early 17th century to protect the channel between the islands from corsairs. The square citadel towers over the rocky shore and is visible from almost anywhere in the archipelago. Climbing up to the tower, you can enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the Mediterranean Sea, while its rugged walls serve as a reminder of the times when the island was an important strategic frontier.

For lovers of sea adventures and the underwater world, St Mary's Caves will be a true discovery. This system of grottoes and tunnels on the northern side of the island is considered one of the best spots for diving and snorkeling in Malta. The water here is crystal clear, and schools of fish, accustomed to tourists, often swim quite close in expectation of a treat. A boat trip through the caves will provide unforgettable impressions of the play of light and shadow on the water's surface.

If you are looking for a quiet beach holiday away from the crowds, pay attention to Santa Marija Bay. Unlike the busy Blue Lagoon, this sandy beach offers a peaceful atmosphere and a gradual entry into the water. Near the bay, there is a small chapel and a police station—the only signs of civilization in this part of the island. It is an ideal place for a picnic or a relaxed swim surrounded by wild nature.

Gastronomic life on Comino, despite the island's miniature size, is inextricably linked with the rich culinary traditions of the Maltese archipelago. Interestingly, the island's name itself comes from the spice cumin (zira), which was historically grown here in large quantities. Today, this spice continues to play an important role in local cuisine, giving dishes a unique aromatic flavor.

Since the island lacks the usual variety of establishments, the choice of food here is concise but no less tasty. It is definitely worth trying traditional Maltese snacks, which are perfect for a bite on the beach. First and foremost are pastizzi—flaky puff pastry pies filled with ricotta cheese or pea puree. Another local favorite is hobz biz-zejt: a slice of fresh bread soaked in olive oil and rubbed with ripe tomatoes, often topped with capers, tuna, or onions.

For a more substantial meal found at seasonal food outlets, tourists are offered dishes made from the freshest seafood and fish caught in local waters. If you want to get to know the "king" of Maltese cuisine, look for stewed rabbit (fenkata)—a hearty and fragrant dish often served with vegetables and garlic sauce. A glass of local wine or soft drinks makes an excellent accompaniment.

The dining culture on Comino has its peculiarities: there is practically no street food in the urban sense, except for the Blue Lagoon area. During the high season, food trucks and kiosks operate there, selling ice cream, fresh fruit, and light cocktails. Many travelers prefer to organize picnics, bringing food with them to enjoy a meal in seclusion on the rocky shore. For those seeking classic service, you can stop by the Victoria Bar or return for dinner to hotels on the neighboring islands.

A trip to Comino is not a typical city tour, but a foray into wild nature where infrastructure is minimal and the landscapes are breathtaking. To ensure your holiday on this tiny island goes perfectly and without domestic surprises, we have prepared a list of important practical recommendations.

1. Clothing and Equipment: Since there is practically no shade on the island, a head covering, sunglasses, and a high SPF sunscreen are your main allies. Critically important is the right footwear: for walking the trails, you need comfortable sneakers or sandals with foot support. For swimming, be sure to bring aqua shoes (coral shoes), as the seabed is often rocky, slippery, and sea urchins are found in places.
2. Transport: There is absolutely no land transport on Comino: no buses, taxis, or car rentals. You can only move around the island on foot along dirt paths. Keep this in mind if you are traveling with small children (a stroller won't pass everywhere) or elderly people. Arrival is only by water—on ferries or private boats.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Euro (€). Note that there are no ATMs or bank branches on the island. Food trucks at the Blue Lagoon usually accept cards, but connectivity can be unstable, so we strongly recommend bringing a supply of cash (small bills) for buying water, pineapple cocktails, or renting a sunbed and umbrella.
4. Health and Safety: There are no pharmacies or hospitals on the island. During the season, lifeguards and police are on duty at the lagoon, but for serious help, you will have to sail to Gozo or Malta. Be sure to bring a mini first-aid kit (plasters, antiseptic, motion sickness and headache medication). Be careful in the water: occasionally jellyfish drift to the shore—keep an eye on the warning flags.
5. Communication: Staff on ferries and at food outlets speak English fluently, as it is the second official language. Mobile connection and mobile internet (4G/5G) work quite well thanks to the proximity of towers on neighboring islands, so you don't need to look for special local apps or SIM cards for one day—your usual roaming or a Maltese SIM card will do.
6. Ecology and Etiquette: Comino is a protected nature reserve. There is an unspoken but strict rule: take all trash with you. Bins in popular areas overflow quickly, so carry a bag for waste. Also, avoid playing loud music on the beach—many come here for the sounds of nature.
7. What to Avoid: A major tourist mistake is arriving at the Blue Lagoon in the middle of the day (from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM). At this time, the density of people per square meter is off the charts. To avoid spoiling the experience with the crowd, arrive on the very first ferry in the morning (around 8:30–9:00 AM) or after 4:00 PM, when the main flow has subsided.
8. Insider Tip: If the noise and bustle at the main pier tire you, don't limit yourself to one spot. Walk for about 20–30 minutes to Santa Marija Bay. There is a quieter sandy beach there with far fewer tourists, the water is just as clean, and a real atmosphere of seclusion reigns.

By preparing in advance and bringing everything you need, you can fully enjoy the turquoise waters and rugged beauty of Comino without being distracted by minor inconveniences. Let this little island give you big impressions and become a bright page of your journey!

If you expect Comino to have bustling quarters with neon signs, night clubs, and endless bar counters, this island will surprise you. The nightlife here is radically different from the vibrant scene in Paceville on Malta or Marsalforn on Gozo. After sunset, Comino is a realm of silence, romance, and starry skies, perfect for those wanting to escape the urban rush. There are no typical "party" districts here, and entertainment is more contemplative or exclusive in nature.

Main evening activity centers around the island's only hotel (when open during the season) and the Blue Lagoon area. This is where private yachts and specialized "party boats"—pleasure crafts with music and bars on board—arrive. Essentially, the decks of these vessels become the island's main dance floors. The atmosphere is relaxed: there is no dress code, and the crowd is a mix of adventure-seeking youth and couples enjoying the sunset.

There are very few permanent establishments on the island itself. Nevertheless, tourists have the opportunity to spend a pleasant evening. For example, you can visit Victoria Bar. This is a place where you can grab a snack and enjoy cool drinks after a hot day while taking in the sea view. It is not a nightclub in the traditional sense, but rather a cozy gathering spot for those who decide to stay on the island a bit longer.

If you prefer more comfortable conditions and classic evening entertainment with shows and restaurants, you should look at the resort complexes located on the northern coast of Malta, directly opposite Comino. Many tourists choose to stay at the Ramla Bay Resort. It offers views of the island, and Comino can be reached by boat in minutes, thus combining a quiet holiday with access to infrastructure.

Practical tips for a night visit:

• Transport: Regular public ferries stop running early in the evening (usually around 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM). If you want to stay on Comino at night, you either need to arrange a private water taxi (which is significantly more expensive—from 30–50 euros per trip) or stay overnight at the campsite or the hotel.
• Safety: The island is very safe, with virtually no crime. However, the main danger is the darkness and uneven terrain. Be sure to bring a powerful flashlight if you plan to walk the trails at night.
• Prices: Prices at kiosks and bars on the island are higher than on the mainland due to complex logistics. A glass of wine or a cocktail can cost 20–30% more than average.

During the day, entertainment on Comino is exclusively nature and sports-oriented. There are no theaters or museums here, but there are excellent opportunities for active recreation. The main activity is water sports. The company Bluewaves Watersports offers kayak rentals, jet skis, and parasailing. This is a great way to see the island's rugged coastline and its caves from the water, getting an adrenaline rush before a quiet evening.

Comino is a unique place where the concepts of "city parks" and "museums" take on a completely different meaning. This entire tiny island is officially a nature reserve and a bird sanctuary, part of the European network of protected areas, Natura 2000. Here you won't find enclosed squares with benches or galleries with paintings in gilded frames—the main exhibits are historical forts, and the parks are endless fields of wild herbs and rocky coastlines.

Since the island is virtually devoid of modern development, its "green zones" are natural landscapes. One of the most peaceful spots is Santa Marija Bay. It is not just a beach, but a cozy natural nook in the north of the island, bordered by tamarisk trees that provide rare natural shade for Comino. Silence reigns here, broken only by the sound of waves and birdsong, making the bay an ideal place for communion with nature away from the bustling Blue Lagoon.

Another impressive natural monument, comparable to a gallery of geological art, is St Mary's Caves. This system of tunnels and grottoes, created by the sea and wind over millennia, attracts naturalists and diving enthusiasts. Swimming through arches or walking along the clifftops, you feel as though you have entered an open-air natural history museum, where every stone bears traces of ancient eras.

As for cultural heritage, the role of the island's main museum is performed by the majestic St Mary's Tower. This massive fortification, built by the Knights of the Order of St. John in the 17th century, is currently open to the public on certain days. Inside, the atmosphere of garrison life has been recreated: you can see old cannons, thick defensive walls, and learn how a handful of soldiers protected the channel from pirates and smugglers. The roof of the tower offers the best panorama of the archipelago, which is a visit in itself.

Insider Tip: The best time to experience the "green" side of Comino is spring (March–April). During this time, the rocky wasteland is transformed, covered in a carpet of wildflowers, wild cumin, and clover. A walk along the paths during this season will gift you with scents that cannot be found in any botanical garden in the world.

The public transport system in Comino is unique because it is practically non-existent in the traditional sense. As the island is a nature reserve and a car-free zone, you won't find subways, scheduled buses, or trams here. There are very few paved roads, and vehicle movement is strictly limited: cars belong only to local services, the police, and the hotel. Therefore, when planning your trip, be prepared that your main mode of transport will be your own feet.

In fact, the role of "public transport" for Comino is fulfilled by regular ferry crossings and boats connecting the island with the "mainland"—the islands of Malta (Cirkewwa port) and Gozo (Mgarr port). This is the only way to get here and back. Several operators, including the Comino Ferries Co-Op, run these services. Boats run on a schedule that changes depending on the season: in summer, trips depart every 30–45 minutes, while in winter, intervals can increase to an hour or more. It is also important to remember that navigation directly depends on weather conditions.

The payment system for ferries has its own peculiarities. Tickets are usually sold on a "round trip" basis. Ticket booths are located at the departure ports (in Cirkewwa or Mgarr) and are small kiosks near the pier. The approximate cost of an adult ticket is around 13–15 euros. Payment can be made in both cash and by bank card. An important detail: keep your ticket until the end of the trip, as checks are often carried out not when boarding on Comino, but specifically on the return journey.

As an alternative to regular ferries, there are high-speed water taxis. These are small private motorboats that can get you to the island faster and often offer a more flexible schedule. Their services cost a bit more, but they can drop you off not only at the Blue Lagoon but also at other bays if the weather permits. It is better to agree on the price and return time with private operators in advance, "on shore."

Movement on the island itself is exclusively on foot along dirt trails. There are no car-sharing services, bicycle rentals, or scooter rentals here. Land taxi services are also absent. The only exception is a jeep transfer sometimes provided by the local hotel for its guests, but this option is not available for regular tourists. Given this, comfortable trekking shoes are critically important for exploring the area, as the terrain is rocky and uneven.

The question of accommodation on Comino has its own unique characteristics. Since almost the entire territory of the island is a nature reserve, lodging options directly here are extremely limited. The tourist infrastructure is constrained, and the choice for travelers wishing to stay overnight to the sound of the waves boils down to two extremes: either waiting for the opening of the island's only hotel (which is often closed for renovation or operates seasonally) or camping. Consequently, most tourists choose the strategy of staying in hotels on the northern coast of Malta or on the island of Gozo, from where Comino can be reached by boat in just 10–15 minutes.

Resort complexes located in Marfa or Cirkewwa in Malta, directly across the channel, are considered the most convenient options. These hotels serve as a kind of "gateway" to Comino. One prime example is the Riviera Spa Resort. This hotel offers guests a high level of comfort, spa services and, importantly, stunning panoramic views of the islands of Comino and Gozo.

Another popular accommodation location is the Ramla Bay Resort. It is situated in a secluded bay and has its own extensive grounds with pools and restaurants. By staying here, you gain a logistical advantage: many water taxis and ferries depart for Comino directly from piers located within walking distance of these hotels.

For those looking for a budget option and total unity with nature, there is an official camping area at Santa Marija Bay on Comino itself. This is the only place where tents are allowed. The conditions here are spartan, but the atmosphere of spending the night under the starry sky far from civilization attracts many backpackers.

Booking tips:

The price range in the hotels nearest to the island varies from medium to high (predominantly 4 stars). Given their popularity and strategically convenient location, rooms should be booked 3–4 months before the trip, especially if you plan to visit during the peak season (July–August). It is best to use major online platforms or official hotel websites, paying attention to the availability of a transfer to the ferry crossing.

General Overview: It is important to note immediately that Comino is a nature reserve with a population of only a few people, so the island should not be considered a destination for full-fledged shopping. You won't find boutiques with designer clothing, jewelry salons, or electronics stores here. All trade on the island is exclusively seasonal and tourist-oriented, focusing on the basic needs of vacationers: food, drinks, and beach supplies. If your goal is serious shopping, it is better to plan it on the neighboring islands of Malta or Gozo.

Main Retail Points: The only place where commercial life hums is the pier area at the Blue Lagoon. Here, right on the rocky shore and along the paths, a row of kiosks and food trucks sets up during the high season. At these mobile points, you can purchase everything needed for a beach holiday: sunscreen, sun hats, sunglasses, beach towels, and of course, inflatable mattresses and rings, which are in high demand among tourists.

Shopping Centers and Markets: There are absolutely no shopping centers, supermarkets, or traditional markets on Comino. There aren't even any regular grocery stores. For fresh farm products or the authentic atmosphere of bazaars, you'll have to take a ferry to Victoria on the island of Gozo (It-Tokk market) or to Valletta on the island of Malta.

Souvenirs: The range of souvenirs on the island is small and limited to the standard set of tourist trinkets sold in the kiosks near the lagoon. You can find magnets, keychains, and postcards with views of the island. However, the most recognizable "symbol" of Comino that almost every tourist buys is not an object, but a drink—a tropical cocktail (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) served directly in a whole fresh pineapple. This is the main "Instagrammable" attribute of a holiday here. Occasionally, you may also find honey or handmade items, but the choice is extremely limited.

Opening Hours and Payment: Retail outlets on Comino work in close connection with the tourist ferry schedule. Typically, kiosks open around 9:00–10:00 AM and wrap up by 5:00–6:00 PM when the last boats take away the bulk of the vacationers. Regarding payment, cash Euros (especially small bills) remain the most reliable method. Although many vendors have already acquired mobile card terminals, connectivity on the island can sometimes fail, so carrying a supply of cash is strictly recommended.

Tax Free: Since there are no shops on the island that are part of the tax refund system (Tax Free Shopping), it is impossible to process it here. This procedure should be completed at the departure airport after making purchases in large stores on the bigger islands of the archipelago.