Where to Stay in Gozo Island 2026: Our Top Areas & Best Hotels

Finding the right place to stay in Gozo near Malta can completely shape your trip. The island is small, but the vibe changes a lot depending on where you base yourself — from quiet villages and coastal stays to more central, practical locations.

When we were planning our stay, we quickly realized that there’s no single “best” area for everyone. Some places are perfect if you want peace and views, others work better if you plan to explore the island by car or rely on public transport.

In this guide, we’ll break down the best areas to stay in Gozo and the hotels we’d genuinely consider ourselves, all with easy access to the top things to do in Gozo. This will help you choose a base that fits how you like to travel — not just what looks good on a map.

Best areas to stay in Gozo

Below, we break down the best areas to stay in Gozo, based on vibe, location, and how you like to travel. On the map below, you’ll see exactly where each area is located, so it’s easy to picture distances and nearby sights.

Victoria (Rabat)

Victoria is located right in the center of Gozo, making it the most practical base on the island. From here, you’re within easy reach of beaches, villages, and attractions in every direction, and it’s also the main bus hub.

The vibe is local and lively, rather than resort-style stay. You’ll find everyday life here — markets, bakeries, cafés, and plenty of casual restaurants — mixed with historic sights like the Citadel overlooking the city.

We liked Victoria for its vibes, atmosphere and practicality.

✅ Pros: Central location, best public transport access, lots of amenities
❌ Cons: No beach nearby, less scenic than coastal areas
⭐️ Best for: First-time visitors, travelers without a car, longer stays

Marsalforn

Marsalforn is a seaside town on Gozo’s northern coast, close to salt pans, dive spots, and swimming areas. It’s one of the most popular places to stay if you want to be by the sea.

The atmosphere is lively and social, especially in the evenings, with a promenade lined with restaurants and bars. It feels more holiday-oriented than Victoria, but still relaxed compared to Malta’s busier resorts.

Insider tip: choose accommodation slightly uphill for better views and less noise.

✅ Pros: Coastal location, lots of restaurants, swimming nearby
❌ Cons: Busier in summer, limited parking in peak season
⭐️ Best for: Beach lovers, food-focused trips, easygoing stays

Nadur

Nadur sits on a hill in eastern Gozo, close to Ramla Beach and overlooking the island’s valleys and coastline. It’s more spread out and quieter than Marsalforn or Victoria.

The vibe here is peaceful and residential, with traditional streets, local cafés, and wide views. It doesn’t feel touristy.

We found Nadur ideal if you have a car and want space and calm, especially for early mornings or sunset views.

Insider tip: look for places on the edge of the village for open views and easy parking.

✅ Pros: Quiet atmosphere, great views, close to Ramla Bay
❌ Cons: Few restaurants within walking distance, car recommended
⭐️ Best for: Couples, families, slow travel, travelers with a car

Best hotels in Gozo

This list brings together our favorite places to stay around Gozo — hotels and stays we’ve either experienced ourselves or would happily book after exploring the island from end to end.

We’ve done the hard research so you can easily decide which of the best hotels fit your needs and preferences.

Best Hotels in Victoria (Rabat)

Victoria is the most practical base in Gozo — central, walkable, and best connected by public transport. If you want easy access to restaurants, shops, and the island’s main sights without relying on a car, this is where staying makes the most sense.

• Cesca’s Boutique Hotel $$$
• The Duke Boutique Hotel $$ (our top pick)
• 71 San Antonio $

Cesca’s Boutique Hotel $$$

Cesca’s Boutique Hotel is a more refined option that feels like a calm retreat in the middle of Victoria. Rooms are elegant and thoughtfully designed, with a slower, quieter atmosphere than most central stays.

The rooftop area with a pool adds a special touch, especially in the evenings, and the location is just far enough from the busiest streets to feel peaceful while still being walkable.
If you want something quieter and more special without leaving town, this is a great choice.

⭐️ Best for: Couples seeking a relaxed, stylish stay
👉 Check availability and current prices →

The Duke Boutique Hotel $$ (our top pick)

The duke Boutique Hotel is the one we’d genuinely book again. A mid-range boutique stay that feels modern, polished, and very comfortable, with spacious rooms and excellent beds — something we really appreciated after busy sightseeing days.

Despite being connected to a shopping complex, the rooms are quiet and relaxed, and having cafés, restaurants, and bus connections right outside is incredibly practical.
If you want comfort, location, and zero daily logistics, this one’s hard to beat.

⭐️ Best for: Couples, first-time visitors
👉 Check availability and current prices →

71 San Antonio $

71 San Antonio is a well-located budget hotel that works perfectly as a base for exploring Gozo. Rooms are simple but clean and comfortable, with everything you need after long days out. The real value here is the location — you’re steps from bakeries, casual restaurants, and the Citadel, so getting around on foot is easy.

It’s not a design hotel, but it’s reliable, practical, and great value for Victoria.
If you want a central stay that keeps costs down without sacrificing convenience, this one makes sense.

⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers, short stays
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best Hotels in Marsalforn

Marsalforn is Gozo’s laid-back seaside base, ideal if you want to stay close to the water and enjoy easy evenings along the promenade. It’s relaxed but lively enough for dinner walks, swims, and sunset views.

• Reef Hotel & Spa $$ (our top pick)
• Murella Living $$
• Lantern Guest House $

Reef Hotel & Spa $$ (our top pick)

Reef Hotel & Spa feels modern yet cozy, with earthy tones and a relaxed vibe throughout. The highlight is the large rooftop swimming pool overlooking Gozo’s landscape, and because the building is relatively tall for the area, some rooms come with incredible open views.

There’s also a second, smaller pool in the garden, which adds to the resort feel. With spa facilities on-site and comfortable contemporary rooms, it’s easy to relax here after a beach day.

If you want sea access plus proper pool time and views, this one stands out in Marsalforn.

⭐️ Best for: Couples wanting comfort with a bit of a resort atmosphere
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Murella Living $$

Murella Living is a boutique-style stay that immediately feels personal. What really makes it special is that each room has a completely different design, with hand-painted murals and decor inspired by Gozo’s culture and landscapes.

Rooms are bright, comfortable, and well equipped, and the location is just steps from the seafront while still staying peaceful. Breakfast is genuinely good, with fresh options and enough variety to start the day right.

If you want something unique, and easy for sunset walks by the sea, this one’s a winner.

⭐️ Best for: Couples and design-focused travelers
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Lantern Guest House $

Lantern Guest House is a simple, budget-friendly stay that feels warm and welcoming. Rooms are comfortable and decorated with wooden details that give them a cozy touch.

The on-site restaurant serves local, Mediterranean, and British cuisine, and breakfast includes pastries, fresh fruit, plus a full English option on request. Its biggest advantage is location — restaurants, diving centers, pubs, and the waterfront are just steps away.

If you want an affordable stay by the sea with everything at your doorstep, this one does the job.

⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers and short seaside stays
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best Hotels in Nadur

Nadur is a quieter, elevated part of Gozo, ideal if you’re looking for space, views, and a slower pace. It’s close to Ramla Bay and not far from Mgarr Harbour, but you’ll definitely want a car here for flexibility.

• Grand Hotel Gozo $$$ (our top pick)
• Ta’ Dun Martin & Taz-Zija Bed and Breakfast $$
• Narcisa Farmhouse $$

Grand Hotel Gozo $$$ (our top pick)

Grand Hotel Gozo stands just 400 meters from Mgarr Harbour and enjoys some of the best open views towards Malta. The rooftop pool and summer rooftop dining area are the highlights here, offering uninterrupted panoramic scenery.

Rooms are spacious, cozy, and well equipped, and there’s also a wellness and spa area for extra relaxation. It feels like a proper full-service hotel while still being peaceful.

⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers wanting views and hotel comfort
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Ta’ Dun Martin & Taz-Zija Bed and Breakfast $$

Ta’ Dun Martin & Taz-Zija is an elegant bed and breakfast that feels modern, bright, and thoughtfully designed. Rooms are spacious with air-conditioning, walk-in showers, tea and coffee facilities, and some even offer sea-view balconies.

The rooftop swimming pool and sun terrace add a boutique feel, and the hot tub makes it even more relaxing. Breakfast is highly rated, with both local and international options, and the attentive host is often mentioned as a highlight.

⭐️ Best for: Couples and relaxed boutique-style stays
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Narcisa Farmhouse $$

Narcisa Farmhouse offers a more traditional Gozo experience in a renovated farmhouse setting. Rooms are family-friendly, air-conditioned, and come with private bathrooms and either sea or garden views.

Balconies and terraces make it easy to enjoy the quiet surroundings. There’s a seasonal outdoor pool, sun terrace, lounge area, and even a small outdoor play space, making it suitable for families. Breakfast includes continental and local options with fresh pastries and warm dishes.

⭐️ Best for: Families and travelers wanting space and a local farmhouse vibe
👉 Check availability and current prices →

FAQ about the best places to stay in

Where should first-time visitors stay?

For most first-time visitors, Victoria (Rabat) is the easiest and most practical base. It’s central, well connected by bus, and close to restaurants, shops, and the Citadel. From here, you can reach most of the top things to do in Gozo without long drives.

What is the best place to stay for couples?

If you’re looking for something romantic and relaxed, Nadur is a great choice thanks to its views and quieter atmosphere. For couples who prefer being by the sea with easy dining options, Marsalforn works really well.

Where to stay for nightlife?

Gozo isn’t a nightlife island in the traditional sense, but Marsalforn has the liveliest evenings, with waterfront restaurants, pubs, and a bit more atmosphere after sunset.

What is the best place to stay with kids?

Nadur is ideal for families, especially if you have a car. It’s quieter, close to Ramla Bay, and many stays offer more space. Victoria is also practical with easy access to shops and amenities.

Where to stay without a car?

Victoria is the best option without a car. It’s the island’s transport hub, and you’ll find everything within walking distance.

What are the best 5 star hotels in Gozo?

The most well-known luxury option on the island is Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz, offering resort-style facilities, large pools, spa services, and a peaceful setting in the countryside. It’s the go-to choice if you’re looking for a full-service luxury stay in Gozo.

Final Thoughts

Choosing where to stay in Gozo really comes down to how you want your trip to feel. Even though the island is small, each area offers a slightly different experience — from the practical, central vibe of Victoria, to the seaside energy of Marsalforn, to the peaceful views around Nadur.

If we had to simplify it: no car means Victoria makes life easier, beach-focused stays work best in Marsalforn, and if you’re after quiet mornings and space, Nadur is hard to beat.