The Ultimate Travel Guide to Gozo 2025

Why Visit Gozo?

Gozo is Malta's enchanting sister island, a perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Known for its stunning coastlines, rich history, and slower pace of life, Gozo offers an experience unlike any other. It has everything from ancient temples and mediaeval forts to serene beaches and charming villages. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or simply looking for some downtime, a visit to Gozo has something for everyone.

Top Reasons to Visit Gozo

It's difficult to do but we managed to narrow it down, and pick out some of the highlights of this beautiful island. Any one of which is a great reason to start planning a trip.

Escape the Crowds: Compared to Malta, Gozo is less urbanised, making it ideal for a relaxing holiday.

Rich Cultural History: Gozo is home to some of the world’s oldest structures, including the UNESCO-listed Ġgantija Temples.

Breathtaking Landscapes: From dramatic cliffs at Ta’ Ċenċ to the hidden coves like Wied il-Għasri, Gozo's natural beauty is unforgettable.

Beautiful Beaches and Azure Seas: Gozo is renowned for its stunning beaches such as Ramla Bay, with its distinct red sand, and Ħondoq ir-Rummien, perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The crystal-clear waters surrounding Gozo make it a paradise for divers and beach lovers.

Film & TV Locations: Gozo’s dramatic landscapes have served as the backdrop for many films and TV series, including By the Sea, the very first episode of Game of Thrones. Film buffs can explore iconic shooting locations and feel like they’ve stepped into their favourite scenes. For any fans of the cosy crime drama series, The Madame Blanc Mysteries, a visit to Gozo is a must-do, with plenty of locations from the four seasons to explore.

Quaint Local Culture: Gozitan villages are charming, with locals welcoming tourists to experience the authentic island lifestyle.

A Brief History of Gozo

The island has been ruled by Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, the Knights of St. John, the French and the British. Today, Gozo retains many historical and archaeological treasures, including temples, forts, and mediaeval buildings that showcase the island’s rich past.

Ancient Sites and Mythology

The Ġgantija Temples are among the oldest freestanding structures in the world, predating even the Pyramids of Egypt. These temples are a must-see for anyone visiting Gozo.

Gozo is also a fascinating destination for mythology enthusiasts. Some believe it is the legendary island of Ogygia, mentioned in Homer’s Odyssey, where the nymph Calypso held Odysseus captive. You can still visit the site of Calypso's Cave, while not currently open, its viewing platform provides a stunning view over Ramla Bay.

How to Get to Gozo

Getting to Gozo is part of the adventure. You can choose from a couple of ferry options, both offering scenic views of the Mediterranean and the chance to get a first glimpse of Gozo's beauty.

Gozo Channel Ferry from Ċirkewwa

The traditional Gozo Channel Ferry departs from Ċirkewwa, the northern tip of Malta. This ferry service is the most popular way to reach Gozo, taking around 25 minutes to cross the channel. You can take your car onboard, making it easy to explore the island once you arrive.

The ferry operates regularly, even during the night, providing a reliable and scenic way to reach Gozo. You can check out the current ferry schedule on the Gozo Channel site.

Top Tip: While on the ferry, make sure to head up to the top deck to enjoy the sweeping views of Comino and the turquoise waters below, as well as the view as you sail into Mgarr Harbour. It’s certainly a great view that welcomes me home after a trip away.

Getting to Ċirkewwa from the Airport

To get to the ferry terminal in Ċirkewwa from Malta International Airport, you can take a bus (Route X1) or hire a taxi. The bus takes about an hour and passes through several key towns before reaching the terminal.

Gozo High Speed Ferry from Valletta

For a faster and more direct option, you can catch the Highspeed Ferry from Valletta's Grand Harbour. This ferry takes just 45 minutes and is ideal for foot passengers wanting to save time and enjoy a more direct route to Gozo.

Top Tip: The journey can sometimes be a little bouncy. I recommend sitting near the back of the vessel to minimise any motion sickness. This service is also more likely to be cancelled if the weather is bad. Keep an eye on the Gozo Highspeed Ferry Facebook page for any announcements about cancellations.

Hop-on-hop-off Ferry Options

If you are only planning a day trip to Gozo, although you really should plan to spend more time here if you can (check out our article on why Gozo is worth visiting for longer), and plan on visiting Comino too. Then the hop-on-hop-off ferry service offered by iSeeMalta is a great option.

When to Visit Gozo

Gozo is a year-round destination, but certain times of year are better depending on what you're looking for.

The Best Time of Year to Visit

March – June (Shoulder Season): The weather is mild, perfect for exploring the island without the peak summer crowds. This is the best time for hiking and enjoying the lush greenery.

July – September (High Season): Summer is ideal for beach lovers and sun-seekers, with hot weather and plenty of festivals and events to enjoy. This is also Festa season, with a village feast almost every weekend. Visitors should be prepared for fireworks, beautifully decorated villages, concerts, and processions. Summer is when Gozo comes alive, along with the feasts, there’s something happening almost every night, usually a gig of some sort. Be warned though, it gets very hot, with high humidity and UV levels making it feel even warmer.

October – March (Low Season): Gozo quietens down, offering a peaceful escape with cooler temperatures. This is also the perfect time to experience local life at a slower pace. The weather can be good, and if so, swimming in the sea is still very pleasant. There's plenty going on too; October is Opera season, and nowhere does Christmas quite like Gozo.

Getting Around Gozo

Once you’re on the island, getting around is straightforward and there are multiple ways to explore. This section gives you a great overview but for details and practical tips and tools for your Gozo stay, read How To Get Around Gozo: The Complete Guide.

Public Transport Options

Buses are the most economical way to get around Gozo. The Tallinja bus network covers most of the island, with the main hub being Victoria (Rabat). From here, you can get to many of the island’s top sights, though bear in mind that buses tend to be less frequent in winter.

Bus Routes in Gozo

Bus Route 301 from Victoria to the Mgarr Ferry Terminal is particularly useful for those without a car. During the summer, there are also direct buses from Mgarr to Marsalforn and Xlendi, which make getting to popular spots even easier. Most routes operate on an hourly basis, making public transport a viable option for those who want to take their time.

Tallinja Card

To make the most of Gozo's public transport system, consider obtaining a Tallinja Card, which offers convenient and cost-effective travel options. The Tallinja Card allows for easy access to the bus network, and you can choose between unlimited travel for a set number of days or pay-as-you-go options. It’s an excellent way to simplify travel on Gozo without the hassle of cash fares. The Gozo Standard card includes a return trip on the Highspeed Ferry, which makes it a real money saver.

Car Rentals, Taxis, and Other Transportation

Renting a car is the best way to experience Gozo on your own schedule. There are rental services available at Mgarr Harbour, so you can pick up a vehicle as soon as you arrive. Alternatively, taxi services like Bolt or eCabs can be used to get around, offering flexibility and comfort.

Hiring a Car

Driving in Gozo is straightforward, with relatively little traffic outside of Victoria. Just remember that, like in Malta, driving is, mainly, on the left side of the road. You can book in advance or visit one of the hire car companies at the Gozo Ferry Port.

Using Taxi Apps like Bolt, Uber or eCabs

Taxi apps are convenient for those who want to avoid driving. You can easily arrange rides to and from key sights, giving you the chance to enjoy Gozo without the need for navigation.

Cycling and Scooter Rentals

For the adventurous, renting a bike or scooter is a fun way to explore Gozo. There are several rental services in Victoria , and it’s a great way to access the lesser-visited areas of the island.

Another warning, while Gozo might be known as the ‘Island of the Three Hills’, there’s actually over 30, which is a lot of up an island of just 67 square kilometres.

Bike and Scooter Rental Services

Hammerhead Projects and On2Wheels are popular bike rental companies that offer both bicycles and scooters. It’s a great way to navigate Gozo’s winding roads and enjoy the fresh air.

Exploring Gozo’s Beaches

There's nothing quite like spending some time on one of Gozo's beaches, and again, you're spoilt for choice. From the wide red sands of Ramla, to hidden gems like Wied il-Għasri, you'll be sure to find the beach that's perfect for you.

Ramla Bay

Ramla Bay is one of the most popular beaches in Gozo, with its stunning red-gold sand and clear blue waters. It’s a perfect spot for families and sunbathers, with plenty of room to relax. The bay is also great for swimming and snorkelling, offering easy access to calm waters and beautiful marine life.

Ħondoq ir-Rummien

Located near the village of Qala, Ħondoq ir-Rummien is a lovely beach with clear waters ideal for snorkelling. There’s a small kiosk for refreshments, and the views across to Comino are stunning. This beach is particularly popular with locals, giving it a relaxed and authentic feel.

Wied il-Għasri

Wied il-Għasri is a narrow, cliff-bound inlet that provides a more secluded swimming experience. It’s the perfect place for those looking for a bit of adventure, as the path to the beach involves some hiking and descending a staircase. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by crystal-clear waters that are perfect for a refreshing dip.

San Blas Bay

San Blas Bay is a hidden gem with red sand, similar to Ramla Bay, but much, much smaller and quieter. It’s a bit challenging to reach due to the steep hill leading down to the beach, but the reward is a peaceful, picturesque bay that feels untouched.

Xlendi Bay

Xlendi Bay is a great spot for an evening swim or sunset views. It’s a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, with several restaurants lining the promenade. After swimming, enjoy a meal by the water while watching the sun set behind the cliffs.

Where to Stay in Gozo

Gozo offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to all tastes and budgets, from traditional farmhouses to luxurious hotels. As the island is so small, you've never really far from a beach or a new village square to explore. To help you pick the perfect spot, we've created a village-by-village location guide.

Farmhouse Rentals

For an authentic Gozitan experience, consider renting a traditional farmhouse. Many of these properties have been lovingly restored and come with private pools, providing a unique way to enjoy your stay on the island. Staying in a farmhouse also means you’re more likely to be located in a quiet, rural area, giving you a true sense of Gozitan tranquillity.

Hotels and Boutique Stays

Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz: A luxurious option offering all amenities, including a spa and fine dining.

The Duke Boutique Hotel in Victoria: Located centrally, this boutique hotel provides easy access to shopping and dining options, as well as the Citadel.

Quaint Boutique Hotels: These small hotels can be found in Nadur, Xewkija and Sannat, and offer charm and character along with modern comforts.

Budget-Friendly Options

There are also numerous guesthouses and B&Bs around Gozo that offer comfortable, affordable stays. These are often family-run, adding a personal touch to your accommodation experience.

Food and Drink in Gozo

Gozitan cuisine is a highlight of any visit, focusing on fresh, local produce and traditional recipes passed down through generations. There are some amazing restaurants and bakeries to try that we've recommended below.

Must-Try Dishes

Ftira: The Ftira on Gozo , or Ftira Għawdxija, is different to what you'd get if you ordered it on Malta. Here you can expect a more pizza-like flatbread often topped with potatoes, anchovies, and fresh herbs.

Rabbit Stew: A local favourite, cooked slowly with garlic, wine, and herbs. Some locals claim that Manini’s Pub, Kerċem, does the best rabbit on the island. If you fancy trying it, you have to book 24 hours in advance.

Gbejniet: Small round cheese, or cheeselet, usually made from sheep’s milk, served fresh, dried, or marinated.

Best Places to Eat in Gozo

Ta' Karolina in Xlendi Bay: Offers fresh seafood with stunning views of the bay.

Maxokk Bakery in Nadur: Famous for its traditional Gozitan pizzas.

Maldonado’s, Victoria: Book in for one of their regular wine tasting and food pairing experiences that showcases the best of Gozitan produce.

Plan Your Visit to Gozo Today!

Gozo is a magical destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore ancient sites, or immerse yourself in the local way of life, Gozo has something to offer everyone. Use this guide to help plan your visit and make the most of your time on this enchanting island. If you have any questions, you can always drop us an email!

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