If you’re planning a trip to Malta, you have to carve out time to visit Gozo. This small but magical island is just a quick ferry ride from the main island of Malta, but it feels worlds away from the crowded city of Valletta. The island is much quieter and gives you a glimpse into the much simpler life of the Maltese people. One of the best ways to experience Gozo? Rent an ATV! Trust me, it’s the most fun way to zip around and explore the island’s stunning beaches, caves, and cliffs at your own pace. Gozo’s scenic roads are perfect for an ATV adventure that takes you off the beaten path. I hope you enjoy my guide to the 9 best things to do in Gozo, with stops at some of the island’s most breathtaking spots!

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Getting to Gozo

Thankfully, reaching Gozo is easy. Just hop on the ferry from Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal in Malta, and in 25 minutes, you’ll be on Gozo’s shores. The ferry runs frequently, so whether you’re planning a day trip or a few days on the island, it’s very easy to get there. We took a ride share from Valletta for 25 euros to the terminal. There are also buses or taxis available around the city. Once you arrive, you can purchase a roundtrip ticket at the ticket desk for less than 10 euro. Most people go for the day, but you can stay overnight!

Pro Tip: Sit on the top deck for the best views of the coastline as you sail across.

Additionally, here are a few accommodations on Gozo if you’re interested in staying overnight:

• Santa Lucia Boutique Hotel
• Battistini Boutique Living and Spa, Victoria, Gozo
• Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz

How to Get Around Gozo

Take a Tour

The majority of visitors end up booking a tour on Gozo. Typically they have pre-arranged transport waiting for you at the ferry port. There are several kinds of Gozo tour options depending on if you’re looking for a boat, quad or jeep tour:

• Malta: Comino, Blue Lagoon & Gozo – 2 Island Boat Cruise
• From Malta: Gozo Full-Day Jeep Tour with Lunch and Boat Ride
• From Malta: Gozo Full-Day Quad Bike Tour with Lunch and Boat

I highly recommend the Quad tour!

Take a Quad

If you’re brave enough to drive your own ATV, I highly recommend doing it! Driving your own ATV allows you to ride through the small streets of Gozo, the villages, and the quiet countryside. It’s a unique view you can’t get on a more organized tour in a car/bus.

We reached out to a company we found online that rent quads on Gozo. We chose Gozo Rides Quad Hire, a family-owned place in Nadur, 5 minutes from the ferry. They offered to pick us up from the Gozo ferry terminal and drive us 5 minutes up the hill to their shop. From there, we rented ATVs and they gave us a map of some of the best spots to stop around the island. The price was about 70 Euro for 4 hours.

Another option is to book an ATV tour:

• Quad Bikes Rental in Gozo

Tip: I recommend bringing a portable charger for the day. We used Google Maps to get around and it killed our battery quickly. Some of the turns aren’t as obvious as you may think and we got lost a couple times when we didn’t follow the map.

9 Best Things to Do in Gozo

I recommend driving the perimeter of the island before heading inland to the main city of Victoria for the most efficient route. It will allow you to see everything without back tracking.

1. Tal-Mixta Cave

For the first stop, and one of the best panoramic views in Gozo, head to Tal-Mixta Cave, located above Ramla Bay. This hidden gem offers a stunning overlook of the beach and surrounding countryside. After a quick hike, you’ll be greeted with a stunning view of turquoise waters. The cave itself is also a unique spot to explore, with its wide opening framing the beach below like a natural postcard.

Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning or just before sunset for the best lighting and a quieter experience. It’s worth the hike!

2. Ramla Bay

Ramla Bay is unlike any other beach you’ll find in Malta. The reddish-gold sand and crystal-clear waters make Ramla Bay the perfect spot for a day of sunbathing and swimming in the summertime. Ramla Bay is one of the best things to do in Gozo!

Tip: The beach can get busy in the summer, so I recommend arriving early to claim a prime spot. It’s also an ideal stop if you’ve just finished hiking to Tal-Mixta Cave.

3. Xwejni Salt Pans

Next, the Xwejni Salt Pans are a must-see. These centuries-old salt pans are located along Gozo’s northern coastline and are still used for sea salt production today. The view of the pans stretching out toward the sea is absolutely mesmerizing. It’s one of the most unique landscapes you’ll find in Gozo, and if you love photography, you’ll be snapping away for sure.

Tip: You can even buy Gozo’s famous sea salt at local stalls nearby. It’s the perfect souvenir to take home!

4. Xwejni Bay

If you’re looking for a quieter, more laid-back beach experience, Xwejni Bay is your go-to spot. This peaceful bay is located near the salt pans and offers a more secluded beach vibe. The waters here are calm and perfect for swimming, and the surrounding landscape is rugged and picturesque, making it feel like you’ve stumbled upon a hidden paradise.

Travel Tip: Pack some snacks or stop at a roadside stand for incredible fresh pomegranite and orange juice.

5. Hike to Wied il-Għasri

One of the best experiences in Gozo is hiking down to Wied il-Għasri. This narrow gorge leads to a secluded pebble beach that’s tucked between huge cliffs. It’s a bit of a hidden gem (and a little precarious if you’re not careful!), but once you arrive, you’ll feel like you’ve discovered your own private paradise. The view from between the cliffs is stunning.

6. Admire Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta’ Pinu

One of the most spiritually significant and beautiful places in Gozo is the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta’ Pinu. This Roman Catholic church is an architectural masterpiece, set in the peaceful countryside near the village of Gharb. What makes it special isn’t just its stunning exterior, with intricate stone carvings and towering spires, but also its role in local religious history. The church is a national shrine, and many people visit it to seek solace or pray.

7. Admire Dwejra Bay

Although the famous Azure Window collapsed a few years ago, Dwejra Bay is still one of Gozo’s most spectacular spots. You can take a boat ride through the Inland Sea, explore the Blue Hole, or just walk around and take in the rugged beauty of the surrounding cliffs. If you’re into diving, Dwejra Bay offers some of the best underwater experiences in the Mediterranean.

8. Explore Victoria

No visit to Gozo is complete without exploring its capital Victoria. It can be very challenging to park here so make sure you follow and abide by the signs to avoid getting a ticket. There are a few parking lots in the town. I marked the one we used on Google Maps.

Perched on a hill in the middle of the island, Victoria Citadel offers panoramic views of Gozo’s countryside and coastline. Wander the narrow streets, visit the Cathedral of the Assumption, and take in the rich history that dates back to medieval times.

After walking around for a bit, grab a bite to eat. There are many restaurants and cafes in Victoria. One of my favorite spots is Ta’ Rikardu, a charming restaurant known for its local cheese and wine. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

9. Swim and Dine at Xlendi Bay

If you’re looking for a perfect mix of swimming and dining, head to Xlendi Bay. This small, charming bay is surrounded by cliffs and filled with calm, turquoise waters. After a swim, grab dinner at one of the many waterfront restaurants—The Boat House serves fresh seafood with an amazing view of the bay.

Tip: Stick around for sunset. Watching the sun dip below the horizon from the cliffs above Xlendi is the perfect way to end your day in Gozo.

Gozo is one of those places that surprises you. From ancient temples and hidden beaches to quiet coves and breathtaking hikes, there’s something magical around every corner. Whether you’re on an ATV adventure or lounging on a quiet beach, the best things to do in Gozo will leave you with unforgettable memories. It may even be your favorite part of your trip to Malta!

Discover the Top 10 Must-Do Activities in Valletta, Malta or discover my full day 7-day guide to Malta.

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