Day Trip from Malta to Gozo

If you've decided to vacation in Malta this year, you certainly can't miss the day trip to the neighboring island of Gozo. Find out how to get there, what to do and how to make the most of a day in Gozo.

Read our tips and start fantasizing about your next ferry trip to the island of the Maltese archipelago!

The beautiful wild and unspoiled coast of Gozo

Where is Gozo and how do I get there?

Gozo is located west of Malta and Comino, and is the second-largest island in the Maltese archipelago. 

Gozo and Malta are separated by a small channel, so it is very easy to travel from one island to the other. In fact, Gozo is an ideal destination for a day trip from Malta: just take the ferry and you'll arrive at your destination in less than 1 hour.

Ferry connections from Malta to Gozo operate year-round and are available from both the port of Valletta, the capital of Malta, and the port of Ċirkewwa, in the north of the island. 

The companies serving these routes are Virtu Gozo (Gozo Highspeed) and Gozo Channel. Depending on the port of departure and the company, you will arrive in Gozo in 25 to 45 minutes.

Why should I visit Gozo?

With its unspoiled nature, wild coastline and historical sites, Gozo has become one of the most beloved islands in the Mediterranean. According to Homer's Odyssey, the nymph Calypso managed to hold the Greek hero Odysseus captive for 7 years on this beautiful island. Will you also fall under the same spell?

A day in Gozo will allow you to experience the island’s magnificent heritage, dive into dreamy bays, visit villages frozen in time, and admire the peaceful, traditional way of life of the locals.

In addition, Malta - Gozo ferry tickets are pretty cheap, with fares ranging from €4 to €7.50. There are also various discounts for students and seniors, as well as other passenger categories.

You can decide whether to explore Gozo on foot, with your own vehicle (only possible if you embark it from Ċirkewwa port) or by cab.

If we've convinced you, it's time to learn more about what to do and see in Gozo in a day:

What to do in Gozo in 1 day

Once you decide whether to depart from the port of Valletta or Ċirkewwa, it’s time to book your ferry tickets to Gozo. Choose the early morning route so you can arrive early and take advantage of the whole day on the island.

Even before you arrive, you will be overwhelmed with awe at the beauty of Gozo as you approach the port of Mgarr: Fort Chambray and the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes dominate the scene. 

First, head to Victoria, the capital of Gozo. By taking bus line 301 from the port, you will get there in about 10 minutes. Start by exploring Victoria's historic center, perhaps after a delicious breakfast at Café Jubilee in the famous Independence Square. 

Wander through the city's alleys, stop to admire St. George's Basilica, and then continue to the Citadella. Walk (or take the elevator) up to the square, with the wonderful Cathedral of the Assumption. Up on the ramparts, you'll enjoy a 360-degree view of Gozo's hills, valleys and villages.

Feeling hungry? Step into a local bakery and try the Gozitan ftira. This delicious traditional flatbread is perfect for a late-morning snack!

The old town of Victoria in Gozo with the Citadella in the background

After a full immersion in history, it's time for a rejuvenating dip and to relax on the beach. From Victoria you can continue north and reach Ramla Bay, Gozo's red beach. Spend a couple of hours here and take the opportunity to also visit Tal-Mixta (the famous Calypso's Cave), located on the western side of Ramla Bay.

Next, head further north to the seaside resort of Marsalforn, with its scenic seaside restaurants. You can also travel outside the town and visit the Xwejni Salt Pans, carved into the rock.

About 7 km from Marsalforn there is another wonder waiting for you: the Ta pinu sanctuary. From here you can continue toward the coast and arrive at one of the island's most magical attractions - Dwejra Bay. If you have already heard of Gozo's Azure Window, you should know that it was once located right here, but a storm in 2017 brought down this beautiful natural arch. 

Its collapse has now created a hub for marine life, making it one of the most spectacular diving sites in Gozo. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your mask!

The beautiful waters of the Blue Hole natural pool in Gozo

It is already late afternoon and you certainly cannot leave Gozo without admiring its beautiful sunset from the Ta' Ċenċ Cliffs viewpoint. Sit on the cliff overlooking the sea and enjoy the view! 

Now you can slowly start heading back toward the port of Mgarr, which is 15 minutes from here. Ferries to Malta from Gozo operate until late in the evening!

Useful tips for your trip to Gozo

Here are 3 tips that you may find useful when planning your trip to Gozo:

• If you decide to bring along your vehicle in Gozo from Malta or to rent a car, keep in mind that they drive on the left-hand side of the road here. Also, the speed limit on state roads is 80 km/h, while in urban areas it is 50 km/h.
• Gozo is among the best diving destinations in the world. Don't miss the chance to discover its seabed, natural underwater arches and beautiful corals!
• The island of Gozo is renowned for lace making. You can visit Ta' Dbiegi Craft Village in Gharb to watch highly qualified artisans at work and buy some traditional souvenirs.

Traditional lace making at a craft workshop in Gozo

What do you think? Let us answer first: a day trip to Gozo is definitely worth it! Plan your trip with our tips, book your ferry tickets on Ferryhopper and enjoy the Maltese archipelago.

Tip: make sure to browse our interactive Map of ferries, visualize your ferry trip and even combine multiple destinations in one booking!