How to Travel Gozo on a Budget: Top Money Saving Tips

Gozo, the tranquil sister island of Malta, is a hidden gem in the Mediterranean that offers breathtaking landscapes, fascinating history, and a warm, welcoming culture. Known for its slower pace of life, crystal-clear waters, and iconic landmarks like the Ġgantija Temples and Ramla Bay, Gozo is a dream destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

While Gozo is often perceived as a luxurious getaway, it’s entirely possible to experience the island’s charm without blowing your budget. From exploring its rugged coastline to indulging in local delicacies, there are countless ways to enjoy Gozo without compromising on quality or comfort.

Table of contents

• Unlock Savings with Malta Discount Card

• Daily Deals with Dealtoday

• Discover Bargains with Deal.Com.MT

• Explore Attractions with Maltapass

• Save on Malta's Public Transport

• Enjoy Free (or Almost Free) Activities in Gozo

• Eat Like a Local Without Overspending

Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a family on vacation, or a couple looking for an affordable romantic escape, this guide will show you how to stretch your euros and make the most of your trip.

With these practical money-saving tips—from transportation hacks to free activities and budget-friendly dining—you’ll be able to uncover the best of Gozo while keeping your wallet happy. Let’s dive in!

Unlock Savings with the Malta Discount Card

Imagine getting up to 50% off at restaurants, museums, and exciting experiences! The Malta Discount Card is your key to unlocking savings at over 150 establishments across Malta, Gozo, and even some places in Sicily and London. This card is perfect for families too, as it's valid for the cardholder, one guest, and up to 3 children under 12. Choose the 10-day option if your trip is shorter, or the year-long version for extended stays and return visits. For example, you might find discounts like 50% off at a popular restaurant or reduced entry to certain historical sites. Check the Malta Discount Card website for the latest participating establishments and offers. We think it's quite possible to cover the cost of the card within a day or two, depending on which discounts you go for.

Discounts: Hotels and apartments, restaurants (usually food bill only), excursions and attractions.

Cost: The Holiday card is €34.99 and is valid for 10 days and he annual card is €49.99.

Where to Buy: The Malta Discount Card can be bought online, in person at Mgarr Tourist Services at the Ferry Terminal, from the Museum of Archeology or the Old Prison, both of which are in the Citadel.

How it works: The first step is to buy the card, then make sure you make the venue aware at time of booking that you intend to use it. We recommend always double-checking for any restrictions from the venue around usage, and also reading the cards terms and conditions before you purchase it.

Score Daily Deals with DealToday

If you're on a short trip, or not sure you'll get enough value out of the Malta Discount Card but still looking for a bargain, maybe a steal on a spa treatment, a delicious meal, or a thrilling activity? Then check out DealToday! This website is a treasure trove of daily deals on restaurants, spas, activities, and even products. You can grab amazing savings of up to 90% on various offers, and even gift a deal to a friend or family member for the perfect surprise. Recent deals have included discounted boat trips to Comino and special offers on local wine tasting experiences.

Discounts: These change regularly but you can usually find deals on hotels, guide tours, boat trips, restaurants and spa treatments.

Cost: This varies depending on the type of deal. For restaurants, there is usually a nominal fee of €1. For hotels and excursions, you pay the discounted price in full to secure the voucher.

Where to Buy: All purchases are made online via the website.

How it works: Visit the DealToday website , find and purchase a deal, then following the booking instructions provided on the voucher..

Discover Bargains with Deal.com.mt

Just like DealToday, Deal.com.mt is another gem for bargain hunters! They offer daily discounts on restaurants, travel, spas, cruises, and even everyday items. With high competition among businesses listed on the site, you're sure to find some fantastic deals.

Discounts: These change regularly but you can usually find deals on hotels, guide tours, boat trips, restaurants and spa treatments.

Cost: This varies depending on the type of deal. For restaurants, there is usually a nominal fee of €1. For hotels and excursions, you pay the discounted price in full to secure the voucher.

Where to Buy: Purchase your discount vouchers from the website.

How it works: As with DealToday, you find and pay for your discount voucher via the website and then follow the instructions to book it.

Explore Gozo & Malta's Top Attractions for Less with the MaltaPass

If you're planning to visit Gozo's historical sites, museums, and other attractions, the MaltaPass can be a great way to save money. This pass offers discounted entry to a several popular destinations and includes a day on the Hop-on, Hop-Off Bus If you are planning to spend some time on Malta as well, then this pass is well worth investigating.

Potential Savings: Depending on how many attractions you visit, you can save approximately €10-20 with a 24-hour pass.

Cost: A 24-hour pass is typically €49.95, but keep an eye out for special offers, as it's often available at a 50% discount!

Longer Validity Options: For longer stays, 48-hour (€79.95) and 72-hour (€99.95) MaltaPasses are also available, offering even greater value.

Where to buy: You can buy the card online and have it delivered to your hotel.

Budget-Friendly Transportation Options

Getting around Gozo doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Here’s how you can save:

• Public Buses: The public bus system is reliable and affordable, with single fares costing €2 in summer (€1.50 in winter). For frequent travel, the Tallinja Card Explore is a no-brainer. We provide a whole breakdown of which cards are best in our guide on How to Get Around Gozo.

• Bike Rentals: Renting a bike or e-bike is an eco-friendly and inexpensive way to explore Gozo’s scenic routes. Prices start at around €15 per day.

• Carpooling or Group Rentals: If you’re traveling with friends or family, consider splitting the cost of car rentals or taxis—it can be more economical than individual bus fares if you’re visiting remote areas.

Tip: Avoid peak travel hours on buses to ensure a comfortable ride.

Enjoy Free (or Almost Free) Activities in Gozo

Gozo offers plenty of free or low-cost activities that let you experience its beauty and culture without spending much:

• Beaches and Bays: Relax at stunning beaches like Ramla Bay or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Blue Hole near Dwejra.

• Hiking Trails: Explore Gozo’s rugged coastline on foot with trails like Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs or the walk from Xlendi Bay to Sanap Cliffs offering breathtaking views.

• Church Visits: Many of Gozo’s iconic churches, such as the Basilica of Ta’ Pinu, are free to enter and showcase incredible architecture and history.

• Local Festivals (Festas): Time your visit with one of Gozo’s village festas for free entertainment, including parades, fireworks, and traditional music.

Tip: Check local event calendars online before your trip to find free cultural events happening during your stay.

Eat Like a Local Without Overspending

Gozo’s culinary delights are a must-try, but dining out doesn’t have to be expensive:

• Local Bakeries: Grab traditional pastizzi (flaky pastries filled with ricotta or peas) from bakeries for as little as €0.60 each—perfect for breakfast or snacks on the go.

• Markets and Groceries: Stock up on fresh produce from the market stalls close to Victoria's Bus Terminus or local grocery stores for picnic-style meals.

• Casual Eateries: Dine at family-run restaurants offering hearty Gozitan dishes like rabbit stew or ftira (a traditional pizza-like bread) at reasonable prices.

Tip: Look out for lunch specials or early dinner deals at smaller eateries away from tourist hotspots.

Final Thoughts

Gozo may be small in size but it offers endless opportunities for adventure—and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune! By planning ahead, taking advantage of discounts, and embracing local experiences, you can enjoy everything this beautiful island has to offer while staying well within your budget.

So pack your bags, grab your Tallinja Card Explore, and get ready to discover all that Gozo has in store—without breaking the bank!

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