Gozo Tips for your visit
Top things to do and best places to visit on Maltas sister island
Looking for some Gozo Tips and information on things to see on Gozo from someone who did spend more than one day on the island? You have come to the right place.
Unfortunately, Malta’s little sister is all too often overlooked. I stay a week on Gozo, loved the rural atmosphere and did not get bored. There are more sights on Gozo than the size of the island would suggest.
Impressive rock formations, beautiful bays, an incredible number of churches worth visiting, medieval buildings and historic temples are just some Gozo sights.
Read on to get my latest Gozo tips and as well as details and all you need to know on the must-see attractions this lovely isle has to offer.
Top Gozo Tips
1. Choose your day trip carefully
My top tip for Gozo? One day is not enough for that fantastic island and if you are really short on time, book an extensive day trip from Malta to get the most out of Gozo.
I recommend excluding a stop at the famous blue lagoon. On one hand, you will bypass it by boat anyhow when visiting Gozo. On the other hand, if you really decide that the blue lagoon is worth a visit, there are lots day trips offering that from Malta for another day.
When booking your day trip, pay therefore close attention to what is included in the offered Gozo itinerary to not waste precious time.
Knowing all the Gozo highlights, this is my recommendation covering the most important island attractions:
Gozo Full-Day Jeep Tour with Lunch and Boat Ride
✅incl. pick-up from your Hotel in Malta, Jeep-driver and Tickets for the Ferry
✅Stops include Victoria, the salt pans and the temple complex of Ä gantija
✅Boat trip back to Malta via the Blue Lagoon and the Comino Caves
✅Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
2. Go hiking on the Gozo Coastal Walk
The Gozo Coastal Walk is a 50km (31miles) hiking trail that leads around the island, always close to the shoreline. As I unfortunately didn’t have time to do the entire trail around the island, I walked individual sections.
My favorite one, covers lots of highlights on the north-east coast such as the salt pans, the inland sea and Dwejra Bay (⇨ GPX tracks and lots of pictures on Komoot).
The paths are generally easy and flat, but they often lead close to the steep cliffs. Due to the size of the island, hiking on Gozo is a great way to explore many of the natural Gozo sights.
By car or bus, you would be on the road much longer than exploring the scenic coastline via the Gozo Coastal Walk.
My tip: Unfortunately, there are no signposts for hiking trails on Gozo. You will therefore definitely need a hiking app to not get lost!
3. Use public transport
In order to get around Malta, I do recommend renting a car. This does not apply to Gozo. Unlike Malta, I have only experienced punctual buses on Gozo, right down to the minute, and they were rarely overcrowded.
No matter where you are on Gozo, you are sure to find a bus stop less than a kilometer away where a bus will leave for the capital Victoria within the next 30 minutes.
Bus travel is also very cheap. Depending on the season, a journey costs €1.50 or €2.00 per person.
My tip: If you are traveling by bus for a week on Gozo and / or Malta, I recommend buying the Explore Card. It costs € 21.00 per person for 7 days of unlimited bus travel on both islands. As I traveled by bus every day, the Explore Card quickly paid off.
Best places to visit on Gozo
Victoria
Victoria, the capital of Gozo (formerly Ir-Rabat in Maltese language), is visible from afar thanks to its medieval citadel, which stands on a small hill.
The citadel was completely restored between 2007 and 2014 and admission is free. You can take a wonderful stroll along the city walls and enjoy a fantastic 360-degree view that even stretches as far as Malta! By the way, it is beautifully illuminated at night!
However, the cathedral and the 5 museums located within the fortress walls (the cathedral museum, the archaeology museum, the folklore museum, the old prison and the nature museum) charge an entrance fee.
The 2nd highlight in Victoria is the picturesque old town, which is just a few steps south of the citadel. There is a daily morning market on Independence Square. I was totally impressed by the noise of the birds in the large trees around the beautiful square.
Behind it is St George’s Basilica, which you should visit from the inside, and many narrow alleyways and hidden squares. Just stroll around and let yourself drift.
Interesting: Today’s citadel dates back to the Middle Ages and was mainly used as a place of refuge and defense against pirates. That however did not work very well, as in 1551 almost the entire population of Gozo was abducted by slave hunters and the island was uninhabited for a few years.
Dwejra Bay and the Azure Window
In the northwest of Gozo, in Dwejra Bay, you were able to admire Malta’s former landmark, the Azure Window. However, the famous huge arch made of natural stone collapsed during a storm in 2017.
But even without this famous rock formation, the bay belongs to the most beautiful places in Malta.
Upstream in the crescent-shaped bay lies the approximately 65-metre-high limestone block called Fundus Rock. On it grows the endemic Maltese sponge, a dark brown plant about 20 cm high that only grows here.
Interesting: The Knights of the Order of Malta attributed special medicinal properties to the mushroom after its discovery. It was only made available to the nobility and was considered a cure for various ailments and an aphrodisiac. They even had access to the island monitored by the Dwejra Tower overlooking the bay.
The fortified tower in Dwejra Bay was built in 1652 to guard the north-western coast of Gozo.
If you come here at sunset, you will understand why the natural bay of Dwejra remains one of the best places to visit on Gozo island even without the Azur window.
Inland Sea and Blue Hole
Just a few steps north of Dwejra Bay is a lagoon separated from the Mediterranean Sea by an 80-meter narrow gap or tunnel in the rock. The water of the natural saltwater lake is calmer and warmer than in other places, and even a frostbite like me was able to swim here in November.
You can take a 15-minute boat ride through the rock tunnel for €5.00 per person. I didn’t do that, preferring to swim close to the entrance and look into the tunnel.
The Blue Hole is a 20-meter deep, natural, round pool surrounded by rocks. It is one of the most popular dive sites in Gozo, as an underwater arch opens up about 10 meters below the surface, and you can enter the open sea through a tunnel.
For non-divers, the Blue Hole itself is not so spectacular. I rather preferred the rocky landscape of the Dweja Bay with the small water pools around the popular diving spot.
Ta’Pinu Basilica
The Basilica of Our Lady of Ta Pinu is an absolute impressive monument on the island of Gozo. The impressive shrine has a bell tower 61 meters high, is located on the edge of the small village of Gharb and is visible from afar thanks to its size.
Legend has it that Our Lady spoke to a village woman on this spot in 1883. After several more miracles, it was decided to build a larger church in her honor next to the original, small chapel.
After 12 years of construction, the church was completed and consecrated in 1932. Even two popes, John Paul II and Benedict XVI, came to pray here.
My Gozo Tip: As impressive the basilica is from the outside, especially in the evening, if you do not have the time, skip the inside of that monument and enjoy the view from far.
Salt Pans from Marsalforn
The 350-year-old salt pans west of Marsalforn are a must-see tip for Gozo. They stretch from the village along the coast to Reqqa Point, about 3 km away.
The salt business has a long tradition on the island and the salt pans are still used by various local families for traditional Maltese salt production.
Along a beautiful coastal walk you can admire many geometric salt pans in different shapes! Simply beautiful!
Wied il-Mielaħ
Only since the destruction of the Azure Window in Dwejra Bay has the rock window of Wied il-Mielaħ been the number one of the natural windows in Malta.
The spectacular rock gate, which was also created by environmental influences, is located in the north-east of Gozo (⇨ Location). For climbers, that limestone cliff, has become a famous spot for their outdoor adventure.
To reach it, you have to descend a narrow but short staircase along the rock at the end of the valley, parallel to the old riverbed. This leads to just before the window, almost to the water’s edge.
Gozo Top Tip: Go on a coastal hike and include the “new” Azure Window as well as the other natural Gozo highlights mentioned above. Start in Marsalforn with the salt pans and continue along the stunning coastline to Dwejra Bay. This unique hike is really stunning and beautiful! (⇨ GPX tracks and lots of pictures from it on Komoot)
Ramla Bay and Tal Mixta Cave
Although Gozo is famous for its impressive rocky coastline, the small island also has a beautiful beach. Rambla Bay on the east side of the island is by far the most popular and also the largest beach on Gozo.
Many claim it to be the most beautiful beach of all the Maltese islands! Rambla Bay is the only real sandy beach on Gozo and is therefore busy at almost any time of the day in summer.
You have a fantastic view over the beach with the reddish sand and the sea from the Tal Mixta Cave. There is a small path from the beach leading up the cliff to the cave, which is 500 meters away. It is really steep in places but well worth it!
To the west above Ramla Bay is Calypso’s Cave. The nymph Calypso is said to have trapped Odysseus in this cave for seven years after his ship was shipwrecked in a violent storm. The cave itself is closed due to the risk of collapse, but the view of the coast is fantastic!
Ggantija Temple
Due to its unique architecture and almost complete preservation, the megalithic temple complex of Ggantija is perhaps the most impressive temple complex in Malta and without a doubt one of the most important Gozo sights!
The oldest part of the Ggantija temple complex was built in 3,600 BC, making it one of the oldest freestanding structures in the world. Older than Stonehenge or the pyramids of Giza. This unique prehistoric monument was discovered in 1827 and is now a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Ä gantija Archaeological Park is located in Xaghra, east of Victoria. The complex includes the excavation site and a modern information center and is open daily from 10:00 – 18:00. Price: € 10.00 per person.
Basilica of St. John Baptist
On the village square of the small town of Xewkija, south-east of Victoria, stands another impressive place of worship that you should not miss. The impressive Basilica of St. John Baptist, also known as the Rotunda of Xewkija, was built around the old parish church.
The historic buildings, such as the altar and the tombstones, have been preserved inside in a small museum. The special feature is not only the large organ with over 2000 pipes, but also the mighty, 75-metre-high dome with an internal diameter of 27 meters.
⇨ The Basilica of St. John Baptist is one of the largest domed churches in Europe and has the third highest dome in Europe!
My tip: For a €3.00 donation, you can take a elevator up to the dome and do a 360° walking tour. The spiral staircase that was used to access the bell tower is no longer accessible since late summer 2023 as it is too dangerous. Nevertheless, the view from the dome over the entire island of Gozo, is well worth it.
The Blue Lagoon on Comino
A trip to the Blue Lagoon and the small island of Comino is one of the attractions of Gozo. After all, it is only 15 minutes by boat from Mgarr, Gozos main port.
The island of Comino is located in the Gozo Channel between Malta and Gozo and has a size of only 3.5 km2. Three or four people live here all year round, depending on who you ask. During the summer months Comino offers exactly one hotel but I would not recommend staying there.
The main attraction is the blue lagoon, which is hopelessly overcrowded in the summer. Its crystal clear waters are a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling and diving.
My tip: If you visit Comino island in winter or on a day that is not so hot, it is best to explore the small island on a hike and go swimming in Santa Maria Bay, a little away from the masses around the little ferry jetty. It takes about 2,5 hours to walk around the island.
Good to know: If you don’t want to explore the island, you can’t do much on Comino apart from water sports or sun bathing. Think carefully in advance which boat tour to book and how long you really want to spend on the island! The beach at the jetty is tiny and you have to pay € 15.00 (!) for the sun loungers in the nearby bays.
Blue Lagoon Afternoon Swim with Sunset Cruise
✅2 hours in the Blue Lagoon
✅Padded sun loungers & waterslides
✅Sunset return cruise
✅4 hours total in the afternoon
✅Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Gozo Overview
Gozo is the second-largest island in the Republic of Malta and is located approximately six kilometers northwest of the main island of Malta in the Mediterranean Sea.
It has an area of around 67 km², 43 km of coastline and a population of around 31,000 people, of whom just under 7,000 live in the island’s capital Victoria (Rabat).
The history of Gozo goes back a long way. People lived on the island as early as the 5th millennium BC, as evidenced by the well-preserved temples of Ggantija.
Later, various civilizations, including Phoenicians, Romans, Greeks, Arabs and the Knights of the Order of Malta influenced life on the island. The apostle Paul, who was shipwrecked on Malta in 59 AD, converted the population to Christianity.
The year 1551 was decisive, when Gozo fell into the hands of the Ottomans, who sold all inhabitants able to work as slaves to Libya. As a result, the Order of Malta strengthened the fortifications.
In 1798, Gozo was conquered by the French under Napoleon. It finally fell under British control in 1800 and was part of the British Empire until Malta became independent in 1964.
How to get to Gozo
Malta’s little sister island can only be reached by ferry. Pedestrians can cross over to Gozo from Valletta as well as from the ferry port of Cirkewwa.
If you have booked a rental car in Malta, you can only get to Gozo by car ferry from Cirkewwa. It operates all year round, daily, day and night. In the daytime it departs approximately every 40 minutes.
Hotel Tip Gozo
Gozo offers a good selection of accommodation: from traditional farmhouses to modern hotels, there is something for every taste and budget.
Quaint Boutique Hotel Xewkija
The 10-room boutique hotel has modern furnishings and is centrally located on the village square of Xewkija, next to the rotunda. We had a huge room with a balcony and a fantastic view. Thanks to the nearby bus stop, the 3-star hotel was the perfect starting point for our excursions on Gozo. (⇨ Check availability)
FAQ’s
How long do I need in Gozo?
Gozo is a very small island but it has lots of fantastic sights to offer. I do recommend to spend at least 3 days on the island to be able to visit at least the main highlights without feeling stressed.
Is it worth going to Gozo?
It is definitly worth visiting Gozo. The island offers impressive rock formations, beautiful bays, an incredible number of churches, medieval buildings and historic temples and I even prefered the more rural Gozo over the vibrant island of Malta.
Which is nicer Malta or Gozo?
If Malta or Gozo is nice is difficult to answer as both island are very different from each other. Gozo is more rural and laid back with lots of fantastic nature, Malta is more vibrant and active with wide and long white sand beaches.
How easy is it to get around Gozo?
It is very easy to get around Gozo as the island has a great and inexpensive bus system. Alternatively you can reach lots of sights by walking or bike as well.
Is Gozo walkable?
Gozo is absolutely walkable. I totally recommend doing some hikes on the Gozo Coastal walk leading once around the island along the beautiful coastline.
Can you get around Gozo without a car?
It is very easy to get around Gozo without a car and I even recommend using the buses instead of renting a car when visiting the island.
What is the best month to visit Gozo?
Gozo is a great destination all year round but I would recommend the the shoulder seasons from October to May. There are less tourists and the temperatures are mild.
Is the Blue Lagoon in Malta or Gozo?
The Blue Lagoon is actually on the little island of Comino which is located inbetween Malta and Gozo, easily reachable from both islands by boat.
Do they drive on the left in Gozo?
In Gozo, as well as throughout Malta, vehicles are driven on the left side of the road.
Conclusion
If you have read my Gozo Travel Guide and all I had to say about the best places to visit on the island, you will know by now that Gozo is definitely worth a visit of several days. It’s a small island, but it’s packed with things to see and do.
From stunning natural landscapes to interesting historical sites, there’s something for everyone. I spent a week here and didn’t run out of highlights to visit.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Malta, make sure to include a few days in Gozo. You won’t be disappointed. It’s a lovely place that will make your holidays absolutely memorable.
More about Malta, Gozo and Comino
