How many days should I book to stay in Gozo (Malta)?

First-time visitors to Malta either spend a single day in Gozo, or book for 2-3 days to spend some time to get to know the island. Travellers often decide to return to stay in Gozo for 7-10 days, to really relax and immerse themselves in the island and its natural beauty.

Gozo is the second largest island in the Maltese archipelago, brimming with amazing places, off-the-beaten-path marvels, iconic landmarks, the best beaches, and much more. Only reachable by ferry (there is no proper airport there), this small Mediterranean island has retained its timeless charm and remains untouched by Malta’s growing urbanisation. If you’re looking for a sunny, peaceful and authentic destination, look no further!

When planning your Malta itinerary, one of the first things to do is to balance time between Malta and Gozo Island. With this in mind, you may be wondering how long you should stay in Gozo. Many visitors opt for only a one-day trip to Gozo, which is a shame given that there is so much to see and do on this tiny island.

To help you out, we’ve included the ultimate Gozo itinerary alongside some practical tips further down, in the hope of convincing you to spend more time exploring our beautiful island.

Nevertheless, if you’re short on time, we have the solution for you: our well-crafted day tours will show you Gozo as nobody else does and help you make the most of your day.

Keep reading to plan your Gozo trip!

Why include Gozo in your Malta itinerary?

As locals, we sometimes say that Gozo is what Malta used to be like in the past. As soon as you set foot on this island, you’ll understand why it’s hard to leave Gozo: there, life is simpler and time seems to stand still. All visitors agree that they feel a great sense of serenity as soon as they set foot on the small, beautiful island.

You won’t find cities there, but picturesque and charming villages and a beautiful little capital. Gozo is renowned for its natural beauty, featuring stunning landscapes such as Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs and Wied il-Għasri. History buffs will not be left out, with magnificent historic sites such as the Citadel and the Ġgantija Neolithic Temples. Additionally, sun worshippers and beach lovers are spoiled for choice with a plethora of popular swimming spots and hidden coves.

Compared to Malta’s more urban atmosphere, Gozo offers a more authentic experience, where one can enjoy life at a slower pace. In a nutshell, visiting Gozo perfectly complements a trip to Malta and its bustling cities and tourist attractions.

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How many days in Gozo should you spend?

Although Gozo is a small island and everything is within a short distance, it’s still impossible to see all the highlights in one day. So, if you only have one day to explore Gozo, plan your itinerary well or, even better, opt for a tour with us to make the most of your day there.

However, if you have more time to spare, you will discover it beyond the main tourist highlights and experience the quintessential laid-back island life.

Option 1: A day trip to Gozo (ideal for short trips)

A day trip to Gozo is not enough to explore it all, but we acknowledge it is best for travellers spending limited time on the Maltese Islands.

If you only have one day to visit Gozo, we recommend the following: Explore the Citadel, go for a short hike along the dramatic cliffs or go swimming at one of the bays in summer and finish the day by watching the sunset at Dwejra. Alternative places to include in your one-day Gozo itinerary would be Ramla Bay and the ancient salt pans at Xwejni Bay.

We recommend you avoid the boat tours, as you will spend very little time on Gozo Island. You’ll spend most of your day at sea, and once in Gozo, a tourist bus will take you to Victoria, and you won’t have enough time to enjoy it.

TIP: Make the most of your limited time on Gozo by booking one of our exciting day tours to explore the island’s highlights and hidden gems. Our tours also include a stop at Comino, the smallest of the three islands with inhabitants (only two at the time of writing!) on the Maltese archipelago.

Option 2: A 2-3 night stay in Gozo (ideal for immersion)

A 2-3 night stay is ideal, as it allows time to discover Gozo’s hidden gems and enjoy it at a slower pace. You don’t want to feel rushed in a place with a relaxed vibe! The question that arises is: Why not book just one night in Gozo? Well, staying only one night won’t allow you to truly immerse yourself in the island’s charm and explore at a relaxed pace.

By staying 2 or 3 nights in Gozo, you’ll experience some of Gozo’s magical sunsets at the popular Dwejra Bay, the picturesque Xwejni Salt Pans or from the breathtaking Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs. Of course, you’ll have enough time to explore Gozo’s highlights, like the Citadel, Ramla Bay and Xlendi Bay, at a more leisurely pace.

With the inviting Mediterranean Sea around the islands, you’ll probably want to include some water activities in your Malta itinerary, especially if you visit in the summer. From stand-up paddle and kayaking to snorkelling and scuba diving, Gozo offers the perfect playground for that.

Last but not least, you’ll get the privilege to savour traditional Gozitan cuisine at an authentic restaurant and, if that’s your thing, go for wine tasting at estates like Ta’ Mena Winery.

For a full Gozo itinerary, check our dedicated section further down.

Option 3: Longer stay (4+ nights for total relaxation)

If you’re not pressed for time, why not stay even longer in Gozo? 4 nights or more is ideal for travellers seeking a true escape or as part of a slow travel experience.

Gozo is a dream place for a peaceful retreat far away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Your stress will slowly melt away as you tread the streets of some picturesque villages, swim and sunbathe at one of Gozo’s tranquil bays or just sit to enjoy an amazing sunset. Honestly, we don’t know better remedies for your tired mind!

If you’re looking to truly discover Malta’s sister island, a longer stay will give you more time to explore remote beaches, countryside, picturesque villages and scenic bays without feeling rushed. What’s more, you’ll get to actually experience Gozo and immerse yourself in the quintessential local life. Buy some fresh produce and traditional food at the local markets, attend a colourful festa (village feast), or just get a drink or some local snack at the village’s bar.

You’ll get to see (almost) the entire island, discovering off-the-beaten-track places and secluded bays.

A longer stay is also recommended for travellers who enjoy outdoor adventures. You can challenge yourself by attempting the Gozo Coastal Walk. This is a 50-kilometre hike around Gozo divided into 5 sections of approximately 10 kilometres each. Public transport and accommodation are available at every stage of the hike.

Gozo offers many accommodation options to suit your preferences, travel group, and budget. Farmhouses and countryside-style villas with swimming pools are perfect for a peaceful and comfortable retreat, while Bed & Breakfasts offer an authentic experience when visiting Gozo. Luxury establishments, regular hotels and self-catering options are also available.

How to plan your time between Malta and Gozo?

To help you plan your time between the main island and Gozo, we’ve prepared suggested splits based on the total length of your trip, as well as some tips for logistics.

Suggested splits based on total trip length

Deciding how many days you should spend on each of the islands can be tricky, especially for first-time visitors. Here is what we suggest for your Malta and Gozo itinerary:

5 days: 4 days in Malta, 1 day in Gozo (day trip)

If you have limited time to visit Malta, you won’t be able to spend more than one day in Gozo, unless you’re more into a peaceful holiday by the Mediterranean Sea or in the countryside than sightseeing. As we previously mentioned, one day is not enough to enjoy all the amazing things Gozo has in store, but it’s a good overview of the island’s uniqueness. Perhaps a short visit will also give you an excuse to visit again in the future!

Consider taking a day tour to make the most of your limited time on the island (more on that further down).

7 days: 4-5 days in Malta, 2-3 days in Gozo

If you’re planning a full-week trip, we recommend you spend 2 to 3 days in Gozo. Most people spending a week on the archipelago stick to a day trip to Gozo and don’t stay overnight, thus missing a more peaceful, different version of the Maltese Islands.

On the one hand, in 2 or 3 days, you’ll have enough time to explore Gozo’s highlights without feeling rushed and soak up the island’s authentic, tranquil atmosphere.

On the other hand, 4 to 5 days in Malta are enough to visit the must-sees at your own pace.

10+ days: Equal time in Malta and Gozo, or more time in Gozo

Visitors staying at least 10 days in the archipelago are very lucky! If you’re not tight on time, this duration is perfect for total immersion and a slow travel experience. You’ll get to see the must-sees, explore hidden gems and off-the-beaten-track places worth visiting.

In general, we recommend spending equal time in Malta and Gozo. However, the time you wish to dedicate to Gozo during your stay depends on your traveller’s profile. Urban travellers will want to spend more time in Malta to enjoy the dynamism and activities, while nature travellers will spend extra time in the greener Gozo.

If relaxation is your priority on your holiday, plan to stay a few days on the main island to visit the must-sees and then spend most of your time in Gozo for a laid-back vacation.

Finally, seasoned travellers who already know Malta quite well might want to spend extra time in Gozo.

Practical Tips for Transport

How to Reach Gozo – Three options

The main ferry

The main Gozo ferry, operated by Gozo Channel, departs from Ċirkewwa, the ferry terminal located at the northernmost tip of Malta. The crossing takes around 25 minutes, and the service runs all day and night. The arrival and departure point is Mġarr Harbour. Return tickets are to be purchased from Gozo only. If you rent a car on the main island, you can take it on the ferry without any authorisation needed.

The Gozo Highspeed (Fast Ferry) from Valletta

If you’re staying in or near Valletta, the Gozo Highspeed fast ferry offers a more straightforward option to get to Gozo from the capital. It leaves from the Lascaris ferry terminal and arrives at Mġarr Harbour in just 45 minutes. However, keep in mind that you can only use the fast ferry if you’re travelling without a car; only foot passengers can board. Additionally, crossings are more likely to be cancelled in rough seas.

Transfers with Yippee

Reaching Gozo on your own can turn out to be a hassle, especially if you’re not staying near one of the ferry terminals. For a hassle-free experience, join us on one of our tours, which include transfers from and to your accommodation. You will save a lot of time and be rewarded with an included mini-cruise to Comino Island on one of the ways.

Check out your dedicated guide here for further details: How to get to Gozo

Getting around Gozo

There are a few options to get around Gozo:

Local buses

Public transport in Gozo covers all the villages and the main tourist attractions in Gozo. In total, there are 16 bus routes. Albeit cheap, we don’t recommend relying on local buses to get around Gozo, as they can be inefficient at times, and you’ll end up wasting a lot of your precious time.

Rental car

If you’ve already rented a car on the main island, you can take it on the car ferry departing from Ċirkewwa without any conditions. You can also rent a car upon arrival in Gozo, from Mġarr Harbour. But if you’re planning to drive, be cautious—Google Maps isn’t as reliable on Gozo as it is on Malta. The app often gets confused and may lead you in the wrong direction or on very narrow country roads.

Taxi

Taxis and ride-hailing services such as Uber, Bolt or eCabs are available to take you to your destination. Simply download the respective apps from the App Store or Google Play Store.

Tuk-Tuk, Quad Bike, Buggy or Jeep tours

Get around Gozo the fun way with our unique and state-of-the-art vehicles! Once you leave the island’s main roads, the smaller roads and paths become bumpy and maze-like. With our off-road fleet of vehicles, we’ll take you to places that regular cars simply can’t reach!

A Gozo itinerary for three days

Day 1: Day trip to explore Gozo

Take a day trip with us to help familiarise yourself with the island and to visit Comino on the same day too!

We offer all-inclusive, hassle-free tours with fun vehicles: Tuk-Tuks, Quad Bikes, Buggies and Jeeps. In only one day, you will see much more than what you would on your own or with regular tours, without even feeling rushed!

Here are the itineraries we offer:

Tuk Tuk/Jeep itinerary

• Sanap Cliffs – Munxar
• Xlendi Bay, Cliffs, Caves and Belvedere near Xlendi Tower (pass by)
• Knight’s Washhouses – Fontana
• The Citadel – Victoria
• Ġgantija Temples (optional, entry fee not included)
• Dwejra (Fungus Rock, Inland Sea & Watch Tower) – San Lawrenz
• Ta’ Pinu Basilica – Għarb (pass by)
• Xwejni Salt Pans (where Gozitan salt is still produced today!)
• Qbajjar and Marsalforn Bay (pass by)
• Comino (Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon and Comino’s caves)

Quad Bike/Buggy itinerary

• Xlendi Bay, Cliffs, Caves and Belvedere (pass by)
• Knight’s Washhouses – Fontana
• Dwejra Bay – San Lawrenz
• Basilica of the Blessed Virgin of Ta’ Pinu (pass by)
• ​​Wied il-Għasri (pass by)
• Gozo Salt Pans at Xwejni
• Comino (Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon and Comino’s caves)

Note: In summer, we also offer sunset itineraries for each vehicle, starting in the afternoon. Sunset tours start with a mini-Comino cruise. The Blue Lagoon gets extremely busy in the summer, but you’ll beat the crowds thanks to our tours.

For days 2 and 3, we suggest you return to the places that attracted you most and explore them at your own pace. You will likely also wish to visit other places on the island, so here is our suggested Gozo itinerary for the remainder of your stay there.

Day 2: Victoria and Ramla Beach

Start the day by enjoying a delicious continental or English breakfast at your accommodation or a nice coffee shop in Victoria.

Gozo’s capital, Victoria (also called Rabat), deserves that you spend extra time in it. Wander around its narrow, typical streets and do some people watching, sit on a terrace while sipping a drink or having a late lunch, visit St. George’s Square and its stunning basilica, and go to It-Tokk market at Independence Square to try some local delicacies like the Gozitan ġbejna, local salt and olives and buy a few souvenirs.

You should include the Citadel on your itinerary, especially if you choose a Yippee tour that doesn’t include a stop, as it is truly fascinating. Otherwise, feel free to replace it with something else like the ​​Ġgantija Temple​​s in Xagħra. Access to the Citadel is free, but if you wish to visit the museums inside, you need to buy a ticket at the visitor centre. Stroll in the car-free narrow streets, filled with history and don’t miss the panoramic views over the entire island.

In the afternoon, head to Ramla Bay, Gozo’s largest beach, covered with the distinct reddish-hued sand. In short, this beach is the perfect place to relax and swim in the warmer months. If the weather conditions don’t allow you to chill on the beach, venture around the surroundings for nice hiking opportunities.

Ramla Bay is surrounded by two caves offering sweeping views over the bay: Calypso Cave (said to be the place where the nymph Calypso held Odysseus as prisoner for seven years in Homer’s epic, The Odyssey) and Tal-Mixta Cave (open to the public; this is a great spot to enjoy a magical sunset).

Day 3: Explore the island’s history or spend time in nature

You have two options for your third day in Gozo. Depending on your preferences, you can explore Gozo’s fascinating history and architecture or spend time in Gozo’s unspoilt nature.

Must-See Historical Sites for History Buffs and Culture Lovers

Gozo might be small, but the island has a rich history and is filled with cultural gems to discover.

Discover Gozo’s old history by visiting the ​​Ġgantija Temple​​s, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the village of Xagħra. They are believed to have been built by giants, hence the name (Ggantija means “giant” in Maltese). This local belief is rooted in the gigantic dimensions of the megaliths. A visitor centre helps you get a better understanding of the temples.

Xagħra has more gems worth visiting, including the Ta’ Kola Windmill ​​dating back to the 18th century. The windmill is now open to the public, where you can discover the grist mill and the living quarters. The village also has two more hidden gems to include in your ​​Gozo trip: Ninu’s Cave and Xerri’s Grotto. There are two caves with amazing rock formations located under houses.

Another place worth a visit is the Ta’ Pinu Basilica and National Shrine, an important religious site displaying unique architecture and a parvis adorned with colourful mosaics.

Outdoor Adventures for Nature Lovers 

Spend the last day visiting Gozo’s peaceful countryside and stunning coast. Depending on the season, you can enjoy long walks in the countryside and along the dramatic coastline or spend the day at the beach.

Even though it is included in the itineraries of the Yippee tours, Dwejra is well worth a second visit as it is one of our favourite places in Gozo. There once stood the Azure Window, a massive rock arch. Although it sadly collapsed after a severe storm in 2017, this fascinating place is home to other marvels worth visiting: the Inland Sea, the Blue Hole, Fungus Rock, and the watchtower.

At the Inland Sea, a secluded lagoon, you can swim, dive or take a boat trip. The boat crosses the tunnel separating the lagoon from the open sea and tours the bay. A viewpoint overlooking the Inland Sea offers incredible views over this fascinating place. A short walk away is the Blue Hole, another popular diving site.

Here are a few other places to visit if you have some time left: Wied il-Mielaħ Window (an impressive natural arch), Wied il-Għasri (a stunning secluded bay framed with high cliffs) and Daħlet Qorrot (an off-the-beaten-track beautiful bay).

Elevate your Gozo adventure with Yippee

Looking for a stress-free way to explore Gozo and Comino in one day? Look no further! Yippee has you covered with exciting day excursions combining both islands in one day. Our Tuk Tuk, Quad Bike, Buggy, and Gozo Jeep tours are all-inclusive, meaning you don’t need to worry about anything.

Here is what Yippee tours include:

• Pick up and drop off from/to your accommodation in Malta or Gozo
• Mini-cruise to Comino (Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon and caves) and swim stop in crystal-clear waters (summer and weather permitting)
• Crossing to Gozo
• Tour of Gozo’s highlights and hidden gems
• Chauffeur (Tuk-Tuk tour and UTV safari)/ self-drive Quad Bike or Buggy in convoy behind a tour leader
• Lunch or picnic

We also offer a sunset version of our tours in the summer.

Yippee tours take you to remote places and hidden gems that are harder to reach by car and public transport. They also offer you the opportunity to scout areas for a return visit. For example, if you’re staying three days in Gozo, you can explore it with Yippee on your first day and come back to your favourite places the following days, like Dwejra, the Citadel (Victoria) and Xwejni Salt Pans.

Plan ahead and book your next island adventure to make the most of your time and truly enjoy the beauty of Gozo!