Last Updated on June 24, 2025 by George Pavlopoulos
Gozo, Malta’s second-biggest island, is one of the best places to relax in the Mediterranean. Despite being inhabited since 5000 BC, the island feels underpopulated and offers a less urbanized experience. Moreover, the landscape is stunning, and even though it occupies just 67 sq. km (26 sq. miles), there are several things to do in Gozo. The sophisticated traveler will discover a unique blend of stunning natural scenery and architectural landmarks in Gozo.
Therefore, in this travel guide to Gozo, you’ll find out everything you need to know before visiting the island. Specifically, you’ll read about how to reach the island and move around. Moreover, apart from the top things to see in Gozo, you’ll also see the best hotels on the island. Last but not least, I’ll share some Gozo travel tips and reply to the most common questions.
In this Gozo travel guide, you’ll see plenty of my photos and a short 4K video. Simply navigate through the sections and find the info you need for a relaxing holiday. So, let’s start now with the travel guide to Malta’s gem.
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How to get to Gozo
There’s no airport in Gozo. Therefore, you’ll have to stop in Malta first and head to Gozo. Please keep in mind that every journey to Gozo includes sea travel. There are three options to set foot on the island independently, and that’s what I’ll break down here. Please see the dedicated section if you’re interested in day trips to Gozo.
From Malta to Gozo by bus
To avoid confusion, Malta is a small country consisting of three islands: the biggest one is also called Malta, and the other two are Gozo and Comino. You can travel to Gozo from almost every location in Malta. The easiest way is to start from Valletta or any of its suburbs, such as St. Julian’s or Sliema. From there, you’ll need to catch a bus to the port of Ċirkewwa.
Now, as I always mention in my Malta guides, there’s no intercity bus in Malta. That said, every bus acts as a local bus. Why does this matter? Well, it matters because the bus will stop very often. To get a better impression, from Valletta to Ċirkewwa port, there are 97 stops. The distance is roughly 40 km, though. Traveling time between Valletta and Ċirkewwa port is approximately one and a half hours.
After arriving at Ċirkewwa, you’ll have to embark on the Gozo ferry. Fortunately, the ride is short, and the itineraries are frequent. The traveling time between Cirkewwa and Gozo’s port, called Mġarr, is 25 minutes. The operator is Gozo Channel, and you can see the ferry itineraries here.
From the International Airport of Malta by bus
If you want to go directly from Malta’s Luqa Airport to Gozo, there’s a bus to the Ċirkewwa ferry terminal. Specifically, bus X1 travels twice per hour between the two places. The ride takes an hour, and you can see the X1 schedule here.
From Malta to Gozo by catamaran
If you’d like to avoid long traveling times, there’s a shortcut: the catamaran will bring you from the port of Valletta to Mgarr in 45 minutes. That’s definitely a significant reduction in travel times; however, if the sea is rough, the catamaran might not travel. Moreover, the rides are usually bumpy, and if you get easily seasick, you might have to consider it twice. Nevertheless, the catamarans are a joy in fair weather conditions, even though they don’t have an open deck.
There are currently two companies operating the route. Both prices and traveling times are similar. The companies’ names are Gozo Fast Ferries and Virtu Ferries. Check out their schedules and consider following them on Facebook, where they usually announce delays and cancellations due to bad weather.
From Malta to Gozo by car
The most relaxed way to travel between Malta and Gozo is by car. If you feel comfortable driving abroad and can cope with Malta’s driving rules (remember that driving on the left, like in the UK), the car is the fastest way to travel around the islands. The prices are moderate during autumn and winter, but you should expect significant increases during the summer.
Still, you will have to drive to Cirkewwa and then get on the ferry. The trip between Cirkewwa and Valletta should take no more than 40 minutes.
How to get around Gozo, Malta
As I already wrote, the easiest way to travel around Malta is by car. However, you should rent a car if you feel comfortable driving abroad, and the narrow roads don’t scare you.
On the other hand, public transport is not Gozo’s strongest point. While there are plenty of bus routes around the island, the itineraries don’t run that often, and they stop several times on the way. The buses of Gozo run every hour in each direction. Therefore, if you are on a day trip to Gozo, you won’t see that much.
How to see more of Gozo
The safest option for seeing more of Gozo is to use private services. Guided tours, half-day trips, or even Segway and Quad bikes will give you a much better impression of the island. It’ll be a pity to get stuck in one place on the island and not explore everything that it has to offer. The island’s nature is beautiful, and it’s a must to travel along dusty roads next to the sea.
This subsection provides some of the best ways to travel around Gozo and see as much as possible.
The hop-on-hop-off bus. It might sound highly touristic, but that’s one of the most time-efficient ways to explore the island. The bus has 14 stops, and you can get on it straight at Mgarr port. You can embark and disembark at any of the stops along the route. The Gozo hop-on-hop-off bus will bring you to every place of interest and give you flexibility in your travel plans. Unlimited use for a day costs 20 euros. You can book a place on the hop-on-hop-off bus here.
Gozo e-bike tour. If you enjoy cycling on your vacation, you can also rent an e-bike in Gozo and explore the island at your own pace. See more about the e-bike tour.
Full-day Jeep Safari. That’s an excellent option to see everything Gozo has to offer. The only prerequisite is to arrive early at Mgarr port (10:15 am) to meet your guide. The Jeep Safari tour is a full-day trip around Gozo and every location on the island. Specifically, you’ll visit Qala Belvedere, Ramla, Calypso Cave, Ggantija Temples, Dwejra, the Marsalforn Salt Pans, and Xlendi Bay. Plus, there’s a lunch buffet. Book the Jeep Safari here.
Quad tour. Discover Gozo’s raw natural beauty with a quad. Coastal and country trails will be the scenery of your quad tour, and you’ll admire natural wonders like Wied il-Ghasri Bay. Book the Quad tour here.
Tuk-tuk tour. Finally, there’s also the possibility of booking a tuk-tuk tour. The most convenient part of this tour is that you can even book it in Malta or Gozo. The price includes the ferry crossing (if you travel from Malta), and you’ll spend the day touring around Gozo’s locations. See more about the tuk-tuk tour.
Gozo Segway tour. Your tour guide will help you make the most of your Segway tour. You’ll roam the island’s streets with a Segway and, like in previous tours, see the beautiful Gozo nature. Learn more about the Segway tour.
The best things to do in Gozo
Gozo is home to some of the most exciting locations in Malta. While you can see most of the things mentioned below on a day trip, I recommend spending at least one night here. It’s always better to take a step back and appreciate whatever a place has to offer.
So, in this section, you will find the best things to do in Gozo with info about each of them.
See the Cittadella in Victoria
You can’t miss the Cittadella, one of the most stunning places in Europe. Located on the top of Victoria, the island’s capital, the Cittadella, was the acropolis of ancient Gaulos. The area has been inhabited since the Bronze Age and is one of Malta’s most important spots. The Cittadella has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998.
Every building within the small fortified city is a gem, and you’ll also see several churches. The most iconic church is the impressive Cathedral of the Assumption, completed in 1711. Dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, the Cathedral has a ground plan in the shape of a cross. It’s a Baroque church, and in the interior, you can see a trompe-l’œil painting on the ceiling. You’ll mistakenly think that this is a dome, but it’s the painting that’ll give you this false impression: at this spot, the ceiling is flat.
Apart from the Cathedral, you’ll also see other notable buildings while strolling around, such as the Old Prison, the Gozo Nature Museum, the Gran Castello, and the Museum of Archaeology. All these buildings are open to the public.
Last but not least, don’t miss the stunning views from Cittadella’s viewpoints: on a clear day, you’ll see the whole island.
Explore modern-day Victoria (Rabat)
Below the Cittadella, you’ll find the modern city of Victoria. It’s one of the biggest cities in Malta and the island’s capital. While Victoria doesn’t have the beauty of the Cittadella, it is worth exploring its narrow streets for glimpses of everyday local life. The city’s most famous building is the St. George Basilica, including famous works of art by Mattia Preti and Stefano Erardi. Also, one of the nicest parts of Victoria is the Villa Rundle Gardens, located between Republic Street and the Main Car Park.
In Victoria, you’ll find plenty of local products and nice restaurants. Visiting Victoria and the Cittadella on a warm summer day will probably tire you out, so it’s always a good idea to unwind and enjoy some relaxing time in the shade.
Visit the Ta’ Pinu Basilica
The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta’ Pinu is a Roman Catholic minor basilica and national shrine. You might feel that Ta’ Pinu lies in the middle of nowhere, but in reality, it is just a kilometer away from the village of Għarb. That’s one of the most impressive churches in Malta, and you can see it from far away. It is 61 meters high and features a beautiful interior.
You can visit the Ta’ Pinu Basilica for free.
See the place where the Azure Window stood
The Azure Window was one of the most famous Malta locations. It was a natural limestone arch located in Dwejra Bay, close to Inland Bay. A sea cave’s collapse most likely created the Azure Window. Unfortunately, the iconic Azure Window collapsed on March 8th, 2017, due to stormy weather.
Nowadays, you can only see the place where it once stood. However, the stunning location offers terrific views of the open sea. You can walk along the cliffs, but keep an eye on the weather. For Game of Thrones fans, the location might seem familiar: the Azure Window was featured in the first season as the place where the Dothraki wedding took place.
Stroll around the Xwejni Salt Pans
Straight outside the town of Marsalforn, you’ll come across one of the eeriest places in Gozo. The Xwejni Salt Pans is a place of outstanding beauty and a typical example of Gozitan life. The salt is collected by hand, and the workers use it to sell it in small pouches, making it one of the best souvenirs from Gozo.
Make sure to wander around the impressive formations of the coastline and buy a pouch of salt. Apart from a unique souvenir, you’ll also contribute to the local economy.
Visit the Ġgantija Temples
Just a few people know that the oldest temples in the world are actually in Gozo. Ġgantija is a temple complex dating back to the Neolithic era, making it older than the pyramids of Egypt. According to historians, the Ġgantija temples were erected between 3600 and 2500 BC, making them the oldest man-made religious structures in the world.
The temples seemed to serve as sites for fertility, and the statues discovered on-site seem to validate that. Local tradition says that a giantess built them to celebrate the birth of her child. What makes these temples even more fascinating is that they were created before the invention of the wheel, and one can only wonder how they were constructed. The site faces southeast.
Before entering the Ġgantija temples, there’s also a small museum. You can see several items discovered during the excavation, and maps are available. Ggantija is one of the best things to see in Gozo, and you should add it to your itinerary.
Enjoy the view from Calypso’s cave
There’s plenty of speculation about Calypso’s cave. Throughout the centuries, people placed it in Crete, Greece, or even Gibraltar. Malta claims to have its own Calypso cave, the nymph immortalized in Homer’s Odyssey. And it was in Gozo.
Located on one side of Ramla Bay (it’s also a fantastic beach), the cave is supposedly the place where Calypso kept Odysseus (Latin: Ulysses) as a prisoner for seven years. Over the last couple of years, the cave has unfortunately been inaccessible due to concerns about potential collapse. However, the location is beautiful, and you can even visit the nearby Ramla Bay Beach during the summer. Still, even during winter, you can walk along the coast and admire the splendid sea view.
Visit Comino
Finally, one of the best things to do in Malta is to visit the country’s third island, Comino. Comino is the tiny island you’ll see on your right when traveling between Cirkewwa and Mgarr. It measures just 3,5 square km (1,4 sq. miles), and its name derives from the cumin seed. It has just two residents, and during the winter, not so many people visit it. Comino is a nature reserve.
However, during the summertime, Comino transforms into one of the most popular places in Malta. There’s a hotel to spend some nights at Comino, and the island is home to the famous Blue Lagoon, a white sandy beach with crystal clear waters. You can swim and snorkel, and during July and August, loads of daytrippers visit Comino.
Where to stay in Gozo
Despite its size, Gozo offers a fair number of accommodations to suit every budget. You’ll have two options: to stay in Victoria or a seaside village.
Both areas have their pros and cons. Staying in Victoria means you’ll be in the biggest settlement on the island and close to the Cittadella; however, you won’t be close to the sea. On the other hand, if you decide to stay in a seaside village like Marsalforn or Xlendi, you’ll be right by the sea.
My suggestion is: stay closer to the sea during the summertime. If you visit off-season and don’t plan to swim, Victoria will be more lively.
So, in this section, you’ll find my handpicked selection of hotels in Gozo.
The best hotels in Victoria
Casa Gemelli Boutique Guest House. That’s a beautiful accommodation in the heart of Victoria, between the Astra and Aurora theaters. Some rooms come with a balcony and a seating area to relax after a long day out. Book your room at Casa Gemelli.
Provicario. Enjoying breathtaking views of the Cittadella, Provicario is one of the loveliest accommodations in the island’s capital. Most rooms have a balcony or terrace, and the property serves a daily continental breakfast. Xlendi Beach is 2,4 km away. See Provicario.
The Duke Boutique Hotel. Located in downtown Victoria, The Duke is a boutique hotel with elegant rooms and an on-site restaurant. The hotel serves a delicious breakfast every morning. The rooms have air conditioning and coffee-making facilities. See The Duke Boutique Hotel.
The best hotels in Gozo near the sea
Maria Giovanna Guest House. This family-run guesthouse is situated in Marsalforn Bay and features beautiful rooms with balconies and air conditioning. The beach is less than 2 minutes away, and you’ll find homemade breakfast on the property every morning. See the Maria Giovanna Guest House.
Gozo Charming Apartment near the Salt Pans. This apartment is an excellent option if you’re after a more relaxing vacation and don’t mind being outside of town. Located just a minute from the beach and fifteen minutes from Marsalforn Beach, the accommodation is perfect for 4-5 people. It has two bedrooms, a living room, and a kitchen. And, of course, fantastic sea views. See the charming apartment near the Salt Pans.
The best hotels in Gharb
Ta’ Matmura Farmhouse. That’s one of the most beautiful accommodations on the island. Ta’ Matmura Farmhouse has a swimming pool and elegant rooms. Of course, every room has air conditioning, and free wi-fi is available. See Ta’ Matmura Farmhouse.
21 A. This stunning villa is the place to stay if you want the best for your holiday. Apart from the private swimming pool, the villa has two bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a seating area. Plus, there’s also a playground and a sun terrace. See 21 A.
Other accommodation options in Gozo
Please use the interactive map below for all other accommodation options in Gozo.
The best day trips to Gozo
While it’s always a great idea to spend a couple of nights in Gozo, the truth is that some people are only visiting Malta on a short vacation. So if you only have just a few days in Malta but still want to see its sister island, going on a day trip to Gozo is an excellent idea.
In this section, you’ll find the best day trips to Gozo from Malta. They all start from places in Malta (Valletta, Sliema, St Paul’s), and some also visit Comino. Here’s everything you need to know about the boat tour experience. If you’d like to add some Gozo sightseeing, please check each tour’s information for details.
Let’s start.
Day trips from St Paul’s Bay (Bugibba)
Beaches and Bays catamaran trip. That’s one of the best Malta day trips you can currently book. After boarding the catamaran, you’ll start the boat tour along Malta’s coast. Specifically, you’ll stop at the Blue Lagoon before heading to other places like Ramla Bay or Mellieha. Enjoy food, drinks, and music while sailing and swimming. Book the beaches and bays here.
Gozo and Comino tour. This tour is very similar to the previous one. However, apart from swimming and snorkeling, you’ll have more time to explore Gozo. That said, if you’d like to do some Gozo sightseeing, this one gives you plenty of time to explore the island. See this tour here.
Day trip from Valletta to Gozo
Full-day quad bike tour to Gozo. If you’re staying in Valletta, that’s the best Gozo tour you can join. A powerboat will bring you to Gozo, and you’ll start riding your quad bike with an experienced guide there. You’ll see every location on the island, like Ramla Bay, Marsalforn, the Salt Pans, the Inland Sea, Fungus Rock, and the Calypso Cave. And on the way back, you’ll stop at the Blue Lagoon in Comino. Book the full-day quad bike tour.
Day trip from Sliema to Gozo
Round-trip Gozo tour from Sliema. Finally, if you’re staying in Sliema, this boat tour to Gozo is an excellent option for enjoying the Maltese atmosphere. You will come across several beaches and bays and have the chance to swim. See more about the day trip from Sliema.
FAQ about Gozo, Malta
In the final section of this Gozo travel guide, you’ll find some answers to the most commonly asked questions. You can read this section as Gozo travel tips because you’ll get extra info on how to make the most out of your stay. If you have more questions about Malta’s sister island, please don’t hesitate to ask at the bottom of this post.
When it’s the best time to visit Gozo?
The shoulder months (June and September) are the best times to visit Gozo. July and August tend to be hot, expensive, and crowded.
Is it a good idea to visit Gozo off-season?
If you don’t plan to swim, visiting Gozo off-season will be a rewarding experience. There are few tourists, the hotels are half-priced, and the services are great. The only downside is the weather, which might be unstable.
I visited Gozo in early April, and I had a great time. Regarding the weather, some days were cloudy, but the temperature was pleasant (~22 °C).
How much is the ferry to Gozo?
A one-way ticket by ferry from Cirkewwa to Gozo costs 7,50 euros.
Which are the best beaches in Gozo?
The best beaches in Gozo are:
- Ramla Bay.
- Mgarr ix-Xini.
- Dwejra Bay.
- Hondoq ir-Rummien.
- Xlendi Bay.
Is Gozo expensive?
Gozo is moderately priced and cheaper than its sister island, Malta.
Is it worth staying in Gozo?
If you have more than 5-6 days in Malta, it is worth staying in Gozo. The island is beautiful and offers a wealth of things to do and see. On the other hand, if you are on a short Malta trip (3-4 days), it’s better to take a day trip to Gozo.
How many days should you spend in Gozo?
Three days in Gozo are enough to enjoy everything the island offers. In three days, you can see most of Gozo’s attractions, spend time at the beach, and enjoy the beautiful nature.
Can you hike in Gozo?
If you’re in good shape, you can easily hike around Gozo. The island is a paradise for hikers due to its stunning cliffs and beautiful walking routes. You can find here the coastal walk map.
Shall I stay in Malta or Gozo?
If you want to relax and have a more authentic experience, Gozo is the place to go. On the other hand, if you prefer to do some sightseeing, eat in excellent restaurants, and take day trips, you should stay in (or close to) Valletta.
Gozo travel guide: Final thoughts
Malta’s sister island is a Mediterranean gem. Compared to Valletta, Gozo feels like a picturesque village waiting to be discovered. Even its capital city, Victoria, doesn’t feel that urban despite hosting almost 5,000 inhabitants. Travelers to Gozo should expect to find raw landscapes and places off the beaten path. Although the Azure Window no longer exists, the island has numerous other locations, and the limestone produced on the island creates a fantastic architectural atmosphere.
Even if you have just a couple of days in Malta, I encourage you to dedicate at least one day to Gozo. Seeing the stunning Cittadella, walking next to the sea and the salt pans, visiting Ggantija temples, and seeing the impressive Ta’ Pinu Church are enough reasons to visit Gozo. On the other hand, if you’re searching for a quiet place to relax, consider spending the entire vacation in Gozo.
Enjoy Gozo, enjoy Malta.
More about Malta: Valletta guide, Marsaxlokk guide, Mdina guide, Malta without a car
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