Gozo is often described as Malta’s quieter sister island but honestly, that doesn’t fully capture it. It’s greener, slower, more traditional, and in many ways, it feels like stepping back in time.
This is where you come to switch off. To hike along coastal cliffs, swim in crystal clear water, and enjoy long, slow meals with a view.
If you’re planning a trip to Malta for 8–10 days, I always recommend spending at least two nights in Gozo. A day trip is nice, but staying overnight lets you experience the island when it quiets down and that’s when it’s at its best.
My biggest tip? Rent a car.
Public transport works, but many of Gozo’s best spots are off-route. Places like Sanap Cliffs, for example, are technically reachable by bus via Munxar but you’ll still need to walk around 20 minutes each way. And that adds up quickly across multiple stops. Having a car gives you flexibility and lets you explore properly.
If you don’t have time to stay overnight, please try to do a full-day trip at minimum (my personal recommendation – click the link) and avoid those 2-hour “quick stops” from Comino tours. Gozo deserves more than that!
How to Get to Gozo
The most common way to reach Gozo is via the Gozo Channel Ferry, departing from Ċirkewwa in the north of Malta.
- Crossing time: around 20 minutes
- €4.65 per passenger (paid on return from Gozo)
- €15.70 for a car + driver (paid on return from Gozo)
It runs year-round and is very reliable; even in bad weather, it rarely stops operating.
Another option is the Gozo Highspeed Ferry from Valletta. It takes about 45 minutes, but it’s passenger-only and much more weather-dependent, especially in winter.
Where to Stay
One of the things that makes Gozo special is its accommodation. Farmhouses are a big part of the island’s charm; traditional homes converted into beautiful stays, often with private pools and countryside views.
Some of my favourite places to stay — I’ve personally stayed in all of them, and they vary in budget.
- Santa Lucija Boutique Hotel – Quiet, green, and very peaceful
- Murella Living – Stylish and right by the sea in Marsalforn
- Cesca Boutique Hotel – Amazing location between Xlendi and Victoria
- Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz – If you want a full luxury escape
- The Duke Boutique Hotel – Located in the heart of Victoria, perfect if you prefer a central base
Day 1
Morning in Victoria
Start your trip in Gozo’s capital, Victoria; the heart of the island. Walk along the main street (Republic street) where you’ll find two shopping malls: the Arkadia and the Duke Shopping Mall, along with plenty of cafes and restaurants.
Make your way to Independence Square (it-Tokk), which is always buzzing in the morning. This is where locals gather and honestly, one of my favourite simple experiences is just sitting here with a tea and pastizzi, watching everyday life go by.
There’s also a daily market here, selling local produce, souvenirs, and handmade items. It’s not huge, but it feels very authentic and is great for photos.
Exploring the Citadel
Just above Victoria sits the Citadel, and this is somewhere I always tell people: don’t rush it.
The Citadel has over 7,000 years of history, and walking through it genuinely feels like stepping into another era. It was originally fortified to protect locals from attacks, and for centuries, people would retreat here for safety.
Once inside, it’s completely car-free, peaceful, and beautifully restored.
Here’s how I recommend exploring it:
- Walk the bastions first – the panoramic views over Gozo are incredible, you can literally see the whole island
- Visit the Cathedral of the Assumption – one of my favourite details is the painted dome, which creates the illusion of depth even though there isn’t a real dome
- Step into the Old Prison – the walls are covered in centuries-old graffiti left by prisoners
- Explore the museums – Archaeology, Folklore, and Nature Museum are all here if you’re interested
- Wander the narrow limestone streets
There’s also a visitor centre (€5) that gives great context about the island’s history.
Afternoon in Dwejra
In the afternoon, head to Dwejra Bay, one of the most dramatic landscapes on the island.
The Inland Sea is a small lagoon connected to the open sea by a tunnel through the cliffs. For €5, you can take a small boat ride through this tunnel; it only lasts about 15 minutes, but it’s honestly one of the best experiences in Gozo. You come out on the other side surrounded by towering cliffs.
Right next to it is the Blue Hole (Gozo), one of Europe’s top diving spots. Even if you don’t dive, it’s worth seeing and if you’re feeling adventurous, it’s an incredible place to swim.
🌅 Stay here for sunset — it’s one of the best on the island.
🌌 And if you’re into stargazing, this is one of the darkest spots in Malta.
Day 2
Qala Belvedere
Start your day at Qala Belvedere. If you’re up for sunrise, it’s beautiful but even later in the day, the view over Comino and Malta is worth it.
If it’s summer, head down to Hondoq ir-Rummien, one of my favourite beaches in Gozo. The water here is incredibly clear, and there are some fun jumping spots too.
If you’re feeling adventurous, this is also a great place to start a kayak trip to Comino, one of the most unique ways to explore the island of Comino. An experience I highly recommend!
Ġgantija Temples – Older Than the Pyramids
If you’re even slightly interested in history, the Ġgantija Temples are something you really shouldn’t miss.
Located in the village of Xagħra, these temples date back to around 3600–3200 BC, making them older than the pyramids of Egypt which is pretty incredible when you’re standing there in person.
The name “Ġgantija” comes from the Maltese word for giant, because locals once believed the temples were built by giants and when you see the size of the stones, you kind of understand why. Some of the limestone blocks are absolutely massive, and it’s still not entirely clear how they were transported and constructed with the tools available at the time.
Your ticket also includes entry to Ta’ Kola Windmill, located nearby, which gives a glimpse into more recent Gozitan life.
I’d recommend allowing around 60 minutes for your visit; enough time to explore the site without rushing.
Beach Hopping
If you’re visiting Gozo in summer, one of the best things you can do is dedicate a full day to beach hopping, especially around Nadur. What I love about this area is that you can visit multiple beaches in one day, and each one feels completely different.
Here’s how I’d personally plan it:
Dahlet Qorrot – Quiet & Local
A short drive from Hondoq ir-Rummien will bring you to Dahlet Qorrot; a small, peaceful bay that feels very local and untouched. You’ll often see traditional fishing boats lined up along the shore, and it has a much quieter atmosphere compared to the more popular beaches.
It’s not sandy, more of a rocky/pebbly beach but it’s perfect for a relaxed swim, and snorkelling.
San Blas Bay – Hidden & Worth the Effort
Next, head to San Blas Bay and this is where things get a bit more adventurous.
San Blas is known for its steep access road, and it’s very steep. Most cars aren’t allowed down unless they’re 4WD, so you have two options:
- Walk down (and back up)
- Or take a small jeep service (around €3)
Personally, I’d suggest walking down and then taking the jeep back up; best of both worlds.
But once you’re there… it’s so worth it!
San Blas feels much more secluded than Ramla, surrounded by greenery, and has a similar reddish sand but in a smaller, more intimate setting. It’s one of those beaches that still feels a bit “hidden”.
Ramla Bay – The Iconic One
Then make your way to Ramla Bay, the largest sandy beach in Gozo and probably the most famous.
What makes it special:
- The deep red-orange sand (really unique)
- A wide open bay surrounded by hills and countryside
- Plenty of space, even in peak summer
This is the kind of beach where you can easily spend a few hours; swimming, relaxing, grabbing a drink or ice cream (Champions kiosk is a classic), and just enjoying the setting.
Don’t Skip Għar il-Mixta (Mixta Cave)
One of my biggest tips: don’t just stay on the beach; go up to Għar il-Mixta.
Located just above Ramla Bay, Għar il-Mixta is easily one of the best viewpoints on the island.
You can drive most of the way up (another reason why having a car helps), and then it’s a short walk to the cave.
What makes it special is how the cave naturally frames the view; you’re looking out from inside a rocky opening onto Ramla Bay, the countryside, and the sea beyond. It’s one of those spots that doesn’t even look real in photos.
A few tips:
- It’s especially beautiful in the late afternoon / golden hour
- Wear decent shoes, the ground inside the cave is uneven
A Local Lunch (Don’t Skip This)
When you’re in Nadur, one thing you absolutely shouldn’t miss is trying a traditional Gozitan ftira and the best places to get it are:
- Mekren Bakery (my personal favourite)
- Maxokk Bakery
Ftira is a true local staple. It’s made with a slightly thick, crusty bread base and typically topped with ingredients like thinly sliced potatoes, local cheeselets, olives, tomatoes, and sometimes anchovies or capers. It might sound simple, but it’s incredibly flavourful and filling; proper comfort food, Gozitan style.
Both bakeries are takeaway-only, which actually works perfectly for what I’d suggest next.
Take your ftira and drive just a few minutes down the road towards the Ramla Valley viewpoint overlooking Ramla Bay.
Honestly, this is one of my favourite simple moments in Gozo; good food, an incredible view, and absolutely no rush.
Marsalforn and Wied il-Ghasri
The following spots are great to visit in the afternoon or early morning during the summer months, when the heat is a bit more manageable or really any time of day in winter, when temperatures are cooler and perfect for exploring.
This part of Gozo has a completely different feel; more rugged, more dramatic, and a lot quieter in places. It’s one of my favourite areas to just drive through, stop often, and take it all in.
Marsalforn – Lively & Easygoing
Start in Marsalforn, one of Gozo’s main seaside towns.
Marsalforn has a long promenade lined with restaurants, cafes, and bars, and it’s a great place to stop at pretty much any time of day.
In summer, this is where the island really comes alive; it’s buzzing with both locals and tourists, especially in the evenings. There’s a relaxed, holiday atmosphere, and it’s one of the best places in Gozo for that classic seaside stroll after dinner.
Xwejni Salt Pans & Coastal Stops
Just a short drive from Marsalforn, you’ll come across the Xwejni Salt Pans; a really unique landscape made up of carved salt pans stretching along the coast. These 350-year-old salt pans are deeply routed in Gozitan culture and still used today.
It’s worth a quick stop to walk along them and take some photos, it’s a pretty epic landscape!
Continue along the coast and stop at:
- Wied il-Ghasri – a narrow valley leading down to a tiny, secluded beach. It’s especially nice for a quick swim in summer, though it’s quite small and pebbly.
- Wied il-Mielah Window – a natural limestone arch that’s often compared to the Azure Window, but much less crowded
Both are quick stops, but definitely worth it; especially if you enjoy photography.
Ta’ Ġurdan Lighthouse – A Short Hike with Big Views
If you’re up for a bit of movement, head up to Ta’ Gurdan Lighthouse.
It’s a relatively short and easy hike, and it’s especially nice in the late afternoon or around sunset, when the light softens and everything looks even more scenic.
Day 3
Ta’ Pinu Basilica
Start your day at the Ta’ Pinu Basilica, one of the most important religious sites in Malta.
Set in open countryside, the basilica is known for its connection to miracles and pilgrimage, and you’ll see many offerings and messages left behind by visitors.
Xewkija & Village Life
Continue to Xewkija, home to the Rotunda of St. John the Baptist, the third largest unsupported domes in the world. It’s also possible to go up to the rooftop for a small fee.
Afterwards, take some time in the main square; grab a coffee, sit down, and just enjoy the slower pace of life.
Xlendi & Sanap Cliffs
This is one of my favourite areas in Gozo for a more relaxed afternoon that turns into an incredible sunset.
Start in Xlendi, a small bay surrounded by steep cliffs and lined with restaurants and cafes. It has a really laid-back feel and is a great spot to:
- Stop for lunch or an early dinner
- Go for a swim in the clear, sheltered bay
- Take a short walk along the coast
If you have a bit of time, walk up towards the Xlendi Tower for a slightly elevated view of the bay, it’s an easy walk and worth it.
Sanap Cliffs – One of Gozo’s Best Hidden Gems
From Xlendi, it’s just a short drive to the Sanap Cliffs and if you enjoy hiking, it’s a beautiful coastal hike you can do; an out-and-back route of around 7km. The cliffs stretch along the coastline with dramatic drops into the sea, reaching heights of around 160 metres, and you can follow the paths right along the edge the whole way. It’s not a particularly difficult hike, but it’s incredibly scenic from start to finish.
What makes Sanap Cliffs special is how untouched it feels:
- Wild and rugged
- Much quieter than places like Dwejra
- Perfect for a peaceful walk or simply sitting and taking in the view
It’s also a great example of why I recommend renting a car in Gozo. You can get here by bus via Munxar, but you’ll still need to walk around 20 minutes from the nearest stop, which can feel quite long, especially in the heat.
If you time it right, stay here for sunset. Pictures below.
Where to Eat (My Personal Favourites)
Honestly, you’ll eat well pretty much anywhere in Gozo. But if you’re looking for a few tried-and-tested spots, these are my absolute favourites in each area:
- In Xlendi: Ta’ Karolina and The Boathouse — both right by the water, perfect for a relaxed meal with a view
- In Marsalforn: Il-Qbajjar Restaurant, and Il-Kartell Restaurant — both great options
- In Mgarr: One80 Kitchen — my favourite restaurant in all of Gozo, especially for a nice meal by the marina
- In Nadur: Mekren Bakery and Maxokk Bakery — staples for ftira (takeaway only, but a must-try)
- In Xaghra: Latini Restaurant — great for a sit-down meal in a village setting
- In Victoria: Cafe Jubilee — a classic spot right in the heart of the city
Ending Your Gozo Adventure
Gozo isn’t about ticking off sights or rushing from one place to the next; it’s about slowing down and really enjoying the experience.
It’s in the little things: early morning views before the island wakes up, quiet swims in crystal-clear water, simple local food that somehow tastes better here, and those scenic drives where you end up stopping more than you planned because the views are just too good.
It’s also an island that reveals itself gradually. The more time you spend here, the more you notice; hidden viewpoints, quieter beaches, and that slower rhythm of life that’s hard to find elsewhere.
And this itinerary is by no means an exhaustive list of everything you can do in Gozo. There is so much more to explore; from cooking classes and wine tasting experiences, to even more picturesque beaches tucked away around the island. One of the most memorable experiences I’ve personally done is the full coastal hike that circles Gozo; a stunning 52km route that takes you all the way around the island’s coastline.
If you need any more suggestions or help planning your trip, feel free to drop me a message and I’ll be more than happy to share more ideas.
If you can, stay a couple of nights. That’s when you really start to feel the difference.
If not, make sure you give it at least a full day, it truly deserves that much!
Happy Travels! x
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