Gozo Day Trip from Valletta: A One Day in Gozo Itinerary
A Gozo day trip from Valletta is an absolute must do whilst in Malta.
Whilst Gozo’s wonders could fill many days, even a one day itinerary offers an incredible variety of experiences. From the ancient Citadel to the sun-drenched shores of Ramla Bay, Gozo is full of treasures for you to discover.
Whether exploring ancient relics like the Ġgantija temples or seeking solace by the sea at Wied Il-Ghasri, a day in Gozo promises an unforgettable trip. Join me and discover the best of Gozo for your day trip from Valletta.
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How many days to spend in Gozo?
When I’m asked the question of how many days to spend in Gozo my honest answer is, as many as you can. It’s a truly beautiful island and when you’re on a trip to Malta and Gozo you want to make the most of both islands.
Of course, you can see the highlights of Gozo in one day and this guide will show you how. But if you prefer to slow down and really get to know a place, then I recommend at least three to five days on Gozo.
I’ve spent a week on Gozo and not been bored, as there is always another corner of the island to uncover. Check out my seven day Malta itinerary for more Maltese must-visit locations.
Is Gozo worth visiting?
If you’re wondering what is there to do in Gozo and is Gozo worth visiting, then let me help you. Gozo is absolutely worth visiting, in fact, I think it’s so good that I’d go so far as to say that I prefer it to its sister island of Malta (although Malta is also pretty blooming lovely).
There is a whole heap of things to see on a Gozo trip. I love the laid-back pace and expanse of open countryside mixed with historic villages. Walking across the island and enjoying the best of Gozo’s beaches really is a balm for the soul. A trip to Gozo is one of the absolute best things to do in Malta.
Top things to see and do on Gozo
There are so many places to see in Gozo that you won’t be able to get around them all with just one day in Gozo. However, as Gozo island is so petite, you will be able to get round to lots of the must-see Gozo attractions with a single day itinerary.
This Gozo travel guide will offer tips for what to do on Gozo that include the top historical sights, best of Gozo’s beaches and a flavour of the stunning Gozo landscape’s best and most beautiful views. I’ve also included suggestions for some fun activities on Gozo if you’re feeling adventurous.
If your time is limited, book one of the brilliant Gozo tours to make sure you see as much of Gozo as possible.
One day in Gozo itinerary overview
This one day in Gozo itinerary includes a sample of the best things to do in Gozo. You’ll get to experience a flavour of the best of Gozo’s beaches, landscapes and historical sites. Plus, of course, some delicious Gozitan food.
It’s a packed itinerary and if you’re travelling without a car you might want to remove one or two stops, so that you can spend more time relaxing. In which case, I recommend you skip Dwejra Bay Inland Sea and Ta’ Pinu.
Taxis on Gozo are relatively cheap so use them to get between places, for example from Wied Il-Ghasri to Wied il-Mielah.
Day tours of Gozo
If you love the sound of taking a Gozo day trip from Valletta and want the convenience of a planned out itinerary, you can book a wonderful Gozo day tour.
These tours will take you around the highlights of Gozo and organise your transport on the island, leaving you to just relax and enjoy the day. Here are three of the most popular and highly rated tours:
Alternatively, if you value the flexibility to make your own timetable and still want convenient transport that will get you to the key sights, book the the Gozo Hop-on Hop-off bus. You can choose where you want to spend your time during the day.
The Citadel, Victoria (capital of Gozo)
Start your day trip to Gozo from Valletta with an early walk around the ancient, fortified capital of Gozo, known as the Citadel (or Cittadella). If you’re on Gozo in summer, the morning is a great time to explore this part of the island, as the temperature is not at its highest.
There are loads of things to see and do at the Citadel but if you want to enjoy other Gozo places of interest during the day, select just a few. My top tips are:
- The Grain Silos
- The Old Prison
- The Battery
Ggantija Archaeological Park and Ta’ Kola Windmill
Stepping into the Ġgantija temples is like walking through a portal to an ancient world. Located in the heart of Xaghra village, these megalithic stones were built more than 5,000 years ago, they predate Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids.
The temples’ design includes colossal limestone slabs forming walls and doorways that lead into a central corridor.
Ġgantija’s UNESCO World Heritage status underscores its global importance and the museum illuminates more of the Gozo’s history with ancient artefacts.
The admission fee is a bit on the pricey side, with prices from €10, so if you’re travelling on a budget this is one to skip.
The ticket to the temples includes entrance to the Ta’ Kola Windmill, just around the corner. Don’t miss a quick look around to discover the integral role that grain and bread played in Maltese history. I found it a great way to get a glimpse of Gozo’s heritage and the everyday lives of the population.
Ramla Bay, Calypso’s Cave, Ta’ Mixta Cave and San Blas beach
After all that history, it’s time to enjoy another type of Gozo’s attractions, a visit to the beach.
The ochre-coloured sands of Ramla Bay are synonymous with Gozo so you must include a trip here if you only have one day on Gozo. Not least for the chance to sample one of the huge varieties of of ice creams and ice lollies on offer from the vans parked up at Ramla. On my visits here, I’ve found them to be just what I need on one of Gozo’s many sunny days.
Along with the red sand, Ramla is also home to Ta’ Mixta Cave and Calypso’s Cave. Ta’ Mixta Cave has become known as one of Gozo’s best places for Instagram shots, so head up to the east of the bay to get your own photo.
At the opposite end of the bay is the mythical Calypso’s Cave, reputedly mentioned in Hommer’s the Odyssey. You can’t go into the cave itself but there is a good lookout point here.
San Blas beach
If you’re travelling by car, take a short drive eastwards to check out the beautiful San Blas beach as well. The descent is very steep, so be prepared for your legs to hurt on the way back up (or get a lift from the local jeep service for a few euros). Don’t attempt to drive your own vehicle right down to the beach.
Salt pans at Xwejni Bay
The salt pans at Xwejni Bay are an aesthetic dream. The formation of the pans creates striking patterns and imagery, making them a wonderful backdrop for photos of your day on Gozo.
The landscape along this part of Gozo’s coast is full of lunar-like terrain and interesting shapes. Check out the derelict Il Qolla Bajada battery whilst you’re here. This area is one of the most unique places to visit in Gozo and is great for your Instagram.
Wied Il-Ghasri
After you’ve finished walking along the coast on Gozo, head inland to take a dip in the secluded inlet of Wied Il-Ghasri.
There’s a set of stairs leading down to the narrow strip of water that heads out to sea.
This swimming spot is ideal if you have an adventurous spirit. There’s not really a beach to speak of, so find a place on the cliffs to make your base and enjoy the dramatic scenery surrounding you.
Wied il-Mielah and Ta’ Pinu Basilica
For more incredible scenery on Gozo, don’t miss a visit to Wied il-Mielah.
After Gozo’s famous Blue Window crashed into the sea, Wied il-Mielah offers an equally stunning replacement.
The natural arch, with its flat top, is one of my favourite places to visit in Gozo. The sea swirls and crashes around below, as the ancient rocks jut out over it.
Ta’ Pinu Basilica
If you’re travelling by car, take a short detour to the 20th century basilica of Ta’ Pinu. Whilst the building is relatively young, the sanctuary is situated on the spot of a much older church and its location amongst the rolling landscape of Gozo makes it an appealing spot to visit.
Dwejra Bay Inland Sea
The Dwejra Bay Inland Sea dive site should be next on your list of where to go in Gozo island, if you have transport.
If you’re exploring Gozo without a car in and only have one day then this spot is one to miss.
The most famous view at this site, the Blue Window rock formation, sadly no longer exists. However, there’s the Blue Hole swimming spot and you can go on a fun short boat trip from the Inland Sea, an ancient circular lagoon, out to the towering cliffs of the Gozo coast.
Xlendi
A stop at Xlendi bay on southern Gozo offers the opportunity to take a dip in the sparkling water of Gozo, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, hire a boat or a jet ski here.
I loved whizzing about on a jet ski out in the open sea off the Xlendi coast and it was a reasonable price, starting from €50 for 20 minutes for 2 people.
Xlendi is a good place to stop and refuel as there are lots of restaurants, shops and kiosks to choose from.
The best spot at Xlendi is a tranquil area often overlooked by visitors. Walk along the pathway skirting the edge of Xlendi bay, towards the Xlendi Tower. You’ll find a serene and scenic swimming spot, known as the Xlendi Grotto. It’s like having your own private outdoor pool, complete with steps to help you get in to the water from the rocks.
Discover Mgarr ix-Xini beach
Explore Mgarr ix-Xini
For a more off-the-beaten-track beach, instead of Xlendi, check out the beautiful inlet of Mgarr ix-Xini. Set amongst the gorgeous rocky landscape of Gozo Mgarr ix-Xini is one of the best Gozo beaches to head to if you want to discover a hidden gem on your day in Gozo. This place is popular with locals and the water is a glorious shade of deep turquoise.
A trip to Mgarr ix-Xini beach is one of the best places to visit in Gozo. There’s a roped off swimming area and you can hire kayaks and Stand Up Paddle Boards (SUP).
The beach area is very small but there are cliffs to stretch out on and it’s the water and local atmosphere you come here for.
Things to do at Mgarr ix-Xini
Getting out on the water is one of the top things to do in Gozo and Mgarr ix-Xini provides a great place to do it. I tried SUP for the first time here.
There is no lesson, you pay, grab your board and life jacket and then it’s over to you. In my case, that meant I ended up accidentally drifting into the swimming area, try as I might to stop.
A sharp toot of the lifeguard’s whistle did nothing to help me as I manoeuvred myself back out as quick as I could. Thankfully, after that, I improved enough to stand up on the board and explore around the bay.
Despite my run in with the lifeguard’s whistle, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience, not least because Mr Flip Flops Included had me in hysterics with his many, many, failed attempts to stay on the board.
For an extra adventure, hire a kayak, and go all the way around the headland to the west. It’s a bit of a trip but when I did it I was delighted to find a very cool set of caves at the end and a much quieter area to swim in.
For refreshments, head up the steps in the rocks to the Ta’ Ċenċ hotel bar perched up on the cliff. I’ve also walked here, following the rustic coastal path from Mgarr ix-Xini. It’s a beautifully calming spot to take a drink.
Eat at Mgarr ix-Xini
If you like fresh seafood then you could swap eating at Xewkija for eating at Mgarr ix-Xini. The restaurant on the beach may look like nothing much but it’s super popular with local families, so you’ll be in for a treat (and be prepared to wait). There’s also a food van parked just up above the beach, if seafood is not your thing.
Sunset at the Sanap Cliffs
As evening draws near, head up to the Sanap Cliffs, just along the coast from Xlendi. It’s one of the best places on Gozo to watch the sunset from, as the surrounding cliffs change colour under the golden glow of the descending sun.
This is where limestone cliffs drop dramatically into the glimmering water below. There’s a pathway along part of the cliffs, although it’s not for those who are scared of heights.
Dinner at Xewkija village
Once you’re done gazing at the stunning views from the Sanap Cliffs, walk to nearby Xewkija village. The walk takes 40 minutes, or you can take a Bolt or an Uber for around €8.
Xewkija village is home to one of the most impressive things to see on Gozo, St John’s Rotunda. This church with its intricate exterior seems to tower over the village square. No wonder, as it’s the largest church on Gozo and has the third largest unsupported dome in the world.
You can even take a lift up to see the views out across Gozo from the dome. In the evening you get an extra special experience as the outside is lit up like a Christmas tree in all its glory.
Either finish your day on Gozo by heading back to Victoria for dinner or eat in Xewkija. There are a few options dotted around the square. I ate traditional Maltese food at the deceptively named Shangri-la Chinese Cuisine by Giovanni’s. The food was delicious and outweighed my expectations for such an unassuming venue.
Getting around Gozo
Walk
There are plenty of hiking opportunities on Gozo, making it a great island for visiting without a car.
Bike
Opt for bike rental on Gozo for a quicker alternative to walking. Consider an e-bike so you can easily navigate the island’s substantial inclines.
Bus
As well as walking and biking, there are lots of bus routes to get you to the key sights on Gozo. Check the Malta public transport website for latest timetables and read my article on getting around Malta for more information.
Taxi/Uber
If you don’t want to drive but want to get from A to B quickly, there are plenty of taxis and Ubers and Bolts on Gozo.
Scooter hire
As a small island, Gozo also makes for a fun destination to hire a scooter and explore the sights at your own pace.
Car hire
If you prefer to drive around Gozo, you can compare prices and check availability of car hire on Gozo at Discover Cars. They also have free cancellation up to 24 hours before your car rental starts.
Day tour
For a fun way to see Gozo in one day, book a Gozo quad bike adventure. You’ll travel across the stunning landscapes of Gozo, including the Sanap Cliffs, Xlendi, Wied il-Mielaħ and the Xwejni salt pans. There’s even a traditional Gozitan lunch included.
How to get to Gozo from Valletta
To get to Gozo from Valletta, take the fast ferry. I thoroughly enjoyed travelling all along the Maltese coastline on this efficient service. You can take luggage onboard and food and drink is available to purchase.
The price for a return ticket from Valletta to Gozo starts from £13 for adults (correct as at 2024). Tickets for the Valletta to Gozo ferry are cheapest if you buy in advance.
For more information, check out my article on getting the ferry to Gozo.
Where to stay in Gozo
If you are won over by Gozo’s charms and want to spend more than a day on the island, here are three top choices of where to stay.
An adults only boutique guesthouse. Originally built in 1890, Casa Gemili offers great views of the Gozo Citadel.
If you love a luxury stay, check out the 5-star haven that is the Kempinski Hotel, San Lawrenz. It has beautiful gardens, air-conditioned rooms with private balconies and wonderful swimming pools, perfect for a dip at the end of the day.
An evening drink as the sunsets at the Cornucopia Hotel is one of the best ways to spend a peaceful night on Gozo. The views across the island are stunning. Make sure you ask for one of the updated rooms. The hotel has two pools and a Jacuzzi. I found the staff very friendly and helpful.
For more details on where to stay in Gozo and Malta check out my articles on adults only hotels in Malta and the best boutique hotels in Malta.
If you don’t want to rent a car during your stay, check out my guide to the best places to stay in Gozo and Malta without a car.
FAQS
Is Gozo in Malta?
Yes, the island of Gozo is in Malta. Gozo forms part of the country of Malta but it is a separate island to the island of Malta.
When is the best time to visit Gozo?
Gozo and Malta are great destinations at any time of the year, owing to their sunny and mostly mild climate. However, the spring and late summer are the best times to visit, as the weather and sea are warm but you will avoid the hottest temperatures of peak summer.
Should I do an organised trip to Gozo from Malta?
Taking an organised trip to Gozo from Malta is a great option if you are short on time and want to see the island’s top sights. Organised tours will also typically organise your transport to Gozo from Malta, making it a super convenient way to travel. A local tour guide will also be able to provide insights into Gozo’s history and culture.
Should I spend more than a day in Gozo?
You can see lots of the best that Gozo has to offer in a day in Gozo. However, on my visits I’ve really enjoyed taking several days to make the most of slow travel and the slower pace of life that Gozo offers. Its small size makes Gozo an ideal destination if you travel without a car and want to get out and discover Gozo’s wonderful hiking routes.
How easy is it getting to Gozo?
Getting to Gozo is very easy. There are regular ferries from both Valletta, Malta’s capital, and Ċirkewwa, in the north of Malta.
When is the last ferry from Gozo to Malta?
The ferry from Gozo to Malta runs all night on the route from Mgarr Harbour on Gozo to Ċirkewwa in the north of Malta. The fast ferry from Gozo to Valletta does stop at night and starts again in the morning. The last ferry on this route typically leaves at 10.15pm or 11.30pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Check the website for the latest timetable.