Exploring Gozo Without a Car - A Day Trip Guide for Tourists
Malta’s smaller sister island, Gozo, is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a quieter, more scenic side of life on the islands. Well known for its charming villages, stunning beaches, and history spanning thousands of years, Gozo offers a memorable experience even for a short visit. And the best part? You don’t need a car to explore it! Here’s how to make the most of a car-free day trip to Gozo, along with some top tips on why staying overnight might be worth it.
Getting to Gozo from Malta
Start your journey with the Gozo Channel Ferry, which departs frequently from Ċirkewwa in northern Malta. This ferry, accommodating both foot passengers and vehicles, is a scenic 25-minute ride across the Mediterranean, where you can relax and take in the views of Malta’s coastline. There’s no need to book tickets in advance; simply buy them upon arrival at the terminal, making it a convenient and flexible choice. You’ll arrive in the port town of Mġarr, where you can begin exploring Gozo immediately.
For tourists in Valletta, Sliema, or St Julian’s, public buses run directly to the ferry terminal in Ċirkewwa, taking around 60-90 minutes, depending on your location. Alternatively, for a faster journey, consider a fast ferry from Valletta’s Grand Harbour directly to Mġarr, available seasonally and offering a direct connection from Malta’s capital to Gozo in about 45 minutes.
Exploring Gozo with Public Transport
Once in Mġarr, Gozo’s public bus system makes it easy to get around. Buses run regularly across the island, with routes connecting the port to all major attractions. For example, Route 301 takes you to Victoria, Gozo’s quaint capital city, in just 15 minutes, and from there, you can catch buses to other highlights like Dwejra Bay, Xlendi, and Ramla Beach.
For a day trip, start your journey in Victoria, where you’ll find the medieval Citadel, a fortified city with panoramic views over Gozo. Visit the Gozo Cathedral, museums, and quaint local shops within the Citadel’s walls. Afterward, head to Dwejra Bay to see the iconic Inland Sea and the Blue Hole, both excellent spots for swimming and snorkelling.
Alternatively, take Route 306 from Victoria to the super pretty seaside village of Xlendi. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs, Xlendi is the ideal place to unwind or enjoy a traditional lunch at a local seafood restaurant. For beach lovers, Route 322 passes through Marsalforn, a popular resort town with plenty of cafes and restaurants to while away an afternoon.
Marsalforn
Consider staying overnight
While Gozo is easy to explore in a day, staying overnight can add an extra layer to your trip. By the evening, most day-trippers have left, allowing you to experience a quieter side of the island. An overnight stay will enable you to experience Gozo’s beautiful sunsets (Xlendi we are looking at you!), enjoy stargazing on its remote beaches, and perhaps even discover the island’s nightlife at one of the traditional Gozitan bars.
Staying in Gozo also lets you go further and explore more of its history, such as Ġgantija, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with temples older than the pyramids, or the Ta’ Ċenċ cliffs, which offer breathtaking views over the Mediterranean. You’ll also find many unique options when it comes to accommodation, from charming guesthouses to luxurious farmhouses with pools, allowing you to experience Gozitan hospitality at its finest.
Xlendi
Final Tips for a Car-Free Gozo Adventure
Be sure to check the bus schedule in advance, and keep in mind that Gozo’s compact size makes it easy to explore even within a short timeframe. With regular ferry and bus options, you’ll be able to see the best of Gozo at your own pace. You can also check out the apps for Uber and Bolt taxi services.
Whether you stay for a day or a night, Gozo promises a really wonderful adventure that’s easily accessible from Malta. So, pack your bags, hop on the ferry, and prepare to explore one of the Mediterranean’s most scenic islands.
