10 Best Things To Do in Gozo Island + Extra Tips

As we started planning our Malta trip, we stumbled upon the possibility of visiting the nearby Gozo Island for a day. After checking out the best things to do in Gozo Island, we quickly decided that it had to be part of our 5-day itinerary!

Gozo is a stunning island with a rugged coastline, picturesque bays, tall cliffs, and stunning landscapes. It’s also home to plenty of bird species. We enjoyed driving along the coast and exploring all the attractions.

What we loved the most was that the island offers various kinds of attractions—from marvelous natural wonders, historic buildings, peaceful beaches, and incredible dive spots.

In this guide, you’ll find all the best activities, including extra tips to maximize your holiday.

Quick Overview

While the best time to visit Gozo Island is either in May, June, September, or October, you can have great time during the rest of the year, too! In the summer months it might feel too hot to explore. Winter months are great, but swimming options are limited.

While we preferred getting around on a rental car from DiscoverCars, public transport is also possible. The easiest option is to join an organized tour. We recommend one of the three tours listed above.

Some of the best beaches to visit include Ramla Bay, Dwejra Bay, and Blue Hole. Our favorite natural attractions were Tal Mixta Cave, Wied il-Ghasri, Wied il-Mielah, and Big Cave (Ghar tal-Qrewis).

Another popular places to visit include Xwejni Salt Pans, Cittadella de Victoria, Ta’ Pinu Basilica, and Ta’ Kola Windmill.

12 Things to do in Gozo

1. Tal Mixta Cave

Tal Mixta Cave was the very first stop on our Gozo day trip, and it was our favorite. The unusual natural attraction has a charm that left us speechless.

A large and spacious cave in the cliffs overlooks the beautiful Ramla Bay with its golden sand and turquoise sea. Behind, we enjoyed views over the green hills dotted with old buildings.

Even during the peak summer months, it’s not as crowded as some other attractions. We visit during low season and had the whole place to ourselves.

How to find it

Two different paths lead to Tal Mixta Cave.

The first and easiest option is parking at the top of the hill. We followed the gravel road until we reached signs prohibiting entry and left our car there. The parking spot is also marked on Google Maps.

After we parked, it only took us a few minutes to find the cave entrance. We followed the only path in the area, passing a private house along the way. A few signs helped us find an opening in the rocks with stairs leading down into the cave.

The second, however more demanding option is hiking up from Ramla Beach. The path is easy to find, but it might be slippery towards the end, where it gets steeper. It might take 20-30 minutes one way.

2. Ramla Bay

Ramla Bay is a golden sand beach perfect for relaxing and unwinding on hot sunny days. You can stop for a few hours or easily spend a whole day there.

We were looking forward to it and hoped we could swim. While the water was not too cold in December, it was very windy. Not only did the air feel chilly, but the waves were also too rough.

While the beach is sandy, you’ll need to walk over some rocks and pebbles as you enter the sea. Water shoes might be a good idea.

When it comes to facilities, the bay offers everything you might need to enjoy a perfect day on the beach. Showers as well as toilets are available. You can get food, snacks, or drinks in the beach bars and restaurants.

Additionally, you can also rent sunbeds or umbrellas for 5€ each. Since there are no shaded areas, you’ll undoubtedly appreciate this option.

Parking is available nearby. While it costs nothing, it might be full during busy hours. Come in the morning to avoid trouble finding a free spot.

Looking at the hill on the right side, you should see the Tal Mixta Cave from below.

3. Xwejni Salt Pans

Xwejni Salt Pans are both a historic and scenic attraction on the northern coast of Gozo Island. Stretching along the coastline, they were carved in the limestone rock centuries ago.

Families still use the salt pans for salt harvesting. While we would love to see this process, it is only witnessed in the summer months. Some local vendors even open small street shops where you can buy or taste the harvested salt.

Apart from that, Xwejni Salt Pans are also an incredible photo spot. Use the stunning geometric patterns carved in the rocky stone with the deep blue Mediterranean Sea in the background. 

This attraction is free to visit. As we drove along the coast, we noticed multiple places where salt pans could be found.

4. Wied il-Ghasri

Wied il-Ghasri is a long and narrow canyon leading through the valley carved in the limestone cliffs to the sea. When the sea is calm, the water has an incredibly blue color, and it’s crystal clear.

It was windy during our visit, which also caused many waves and murky water. While we hoped for better conditions, it was an incredible place to visit anyway.

If you’re after some adrenaline, this might be a perfect spot for some cliff-jumping. But of course, check the water depth and any possible rocks hidden below the surface before jumping.

Some people also encounter many jellyfish in the water. Don’t forget to bring your snorkeling gear!

No facilities are available in the area. You can use the old buildings (or their leftovers) to change your clothes if necessary.

How to get here

It’s located only 10 minutes from the Xwenji Salt Pans. We followed the gravel road with some potholes up to this spot. It seemed like the road conditions were worsening, so we decided to leave our car at the crossroads.

There are not many parking spots available. Since we traveled during the low season, we had no trouble parking. However, I don’t know how full it gets during the summer.

Once we parked, it only took us around 5-8 minutes to reach the limestone canyon. We followed the rocky stairs to the valley until we reached a small beach.

5. Wied il-Mielaħ

Wied il-Mielaħ is yet another fascinating natural attraction and one of the best things to do in Gozo Island.

Imagine a tall rectangular rock arch, perfect for dramatic photos. The sea has naturally eroded the limestone formation for thousands of years. It resembles the popular “Azure Window,” which collapsed in 2017. However, the Wied il-Mielaħ is still stable.

The natural rock arch is located near the village of Għarb and can be reached by car. The road leading to it is a dirt one, full of potholes. Additionally, some sections are narrow. Drive carefully.

Parking is available just a few minutes walk from the window view and it’s free.

We quickly found the stairs leading down to the canyon as we walked towards the coastline. Protective railings were installed along the sides. The path ends with an iron fence, behind which an old, rusty ladder leads to the sea.

I’m not sure whether it’s possible to go swimming here. You can’t reach the ladder unless you jump over the fence, so probably not. Additionally, the water was rough when we visited, with many waves. I would not even dare enter the sea.

6. Blue Hole

The Blue Hole in Gozo Island is one of Malta’s most famous dive sites. It’s a must-visit spot for both divers and nature lovers. The underwater sinkhole is about 15 meters deep and 10 meters wide.

Hiding below the surface, an incredible underwater arch opens into the sea. You can’t see it unless you are diving.

Divers can enjoy clear waters and marine life, including groupers, octopuses, and barracudas.

But even if you’re not a diver, this is a great spot you shouldn’t skip. If you’re up for swimming and not scared of the deep blue water, feel free to explore the Blue Hole from the surface.

Non-swimmers can enjoy incredible views from the surrounding cliffs. In the past, there was also a fascinating Azure Window – a rock formation that collapsed in 2017.

We loved spending the sunset hours in the area, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere as the sun turned the sky on fire.

The area also offers a few snack shops selling food, cocktails, fresh ice cream, and more. Free public toilets are available in the parking area. This attraction is completely free to visit.

7. Cittadella de Victoria

Cittadella de Victoria lies in the heart of the island’s capital. The fortress is on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. We loved it for its medieval alleys and interesting architecture, which made it an excellent spot for photography.

The site served multiple purposes throughout its history—military outpost, administrative center, and later, during pirate and Ottoman raids, a fortified refuge for the citizens.

Nowadays, it’s a popular tourist and cultural site, with multiple museums, churches, and, of course, viewpoints. You can stroll around its streets for free. We decided to learn more about its significance and history, so we purchased the Cittadella Combo Ticket.

It includes admission to the Gozo Museum of Archaeology, Gran Castello Historic House, Gozo Nature Museum, The Old Prison, and the Citadel Visitor Centre. We paid 5€ per adult.

8. Basilica Ta’ Pinu

The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta’ Pinu is a fascinating church situated in the countryside, offering beautiful views over the surrounding landscape and ocean in the distance.

It’s known for its history, stunning architecture, and quiet atmosphere. While we’re not a religious couple, we had an amazing time here and enjoyed exploring the peaceful area. 

We loved that we could also visit the basilica’s interior and marvel at its ornate altars, stonework, and stained glass windows. 

The basilica is open daily, and there’s no entrance fee (but donations are welcome). Remember to wear modest clothing with shoulders and knees covered.

9. Ta’ Kola Windmill

Ta’ Kola Windmill is a cool spot to visit if you’re interested in the history and traditions of Malta. It was built in the 17th century to grind grain into flour. The last person who ever worked there was Kola, after whom the windmill got its name.

While it hasn’t been used since the 20th century, the mechanism is still functional, allowing visitors to witness a demonstration of the whole process.

The windmill is open for visitors as a museum. You can explore its interior and learn more about the historical tools used in the past. 

Tickets can be bought at Ġgantija temple, allowing visitors to visit both attractions. Check the official website for opening hours and the most recent prices.

10. Big Cave – Ghar tal-Qrewis

We did not plan to visit the Big Cave. We found it by chance while driving along the coast toward the Wied il-Mielaħ window.

The Big Cave is considered a hidden gem because it is less frequented by tourists. It is a large cave with a rocky entrance that opens up to the sea. Due to its location, it is impossible to reach the cave directly, and no boat tours are available.

You can only enjoy watching it from the cliffs above. The dramatic scene is an excellent spot for photographers.

As we stood on the cliffs, we could see multiple caves below us. Be careful, though, as no protective railings were along the cliff’s edge.

A few unusual sand waves have formed above Ghar tal-Qrewis. We did not stop nearby, but it’s an exciting place to visit and snap some photos. Even the road leading around these attractions is scenic.

Where to eat

Most restaurants are located in the capital – Victoria. But you’ll also find places to eat at some popular attractions. Below are the recommended places to eat:

• Karamelli Brunch Cafe – A selection of brunch meals, pasta, salads and signature coffees.
• Casa Vostra – An Italian restaurant serving mouth-watering Neapolitan pizza and cocktails.
• Noble Cafe Bistro – Perfect choice for burgers, wraps, salads, cakes and signature coffees.

Where to stay in Gozo

How to get here

Getting to Gozo Island is very easy, and multiple options are available.

Public transport + ferry

One of the ways to reach the island is by hopping on a passenger ferry from Malta. You can either travel directly from Valletta with Gozo Highspeed, or from Cirkewwa with Gozo Channel.

The Highspeed ferry from Valletta departs approximately every hour, and the journey takes 45 minutes. The standard one-way fare is 7.5€.

The Gozo Channel ferry is scheduled more often and takes around 25 minutes to travel. A one-way ticket costs 4.65€.

Once on the island, you can use public transport to explore. However, it’s not the most convenient option. Buses don’t run too often, and not every attraction has a bus stop nearby.

Rental car + car ferry

We rented a car with DiscoverCars for our trip, and we had no regrets! Coming to the island with our rental car gave us a lot of freedom and flexibility. Additionally, getting to the island with the car was very simple.

The only way to cross is by taking the car ferry from the Cirkewwa terminal. During the low season, there’s no need to purchase tickets in advance, but I highly recommend doing so during the summer months.

We did not have to pay anything when traveling to Gozo. We only purchased the tickets when we were returning to Malta. As we entered the port, we had to pass through gates where tickets were sold. Round-trip with the car and two adults cost us around 20€.

Joining a group tour

If you prefer a hassle-free trip with pick-up from Malta, we recommend choosing one of the following tours. Each offers something unique.

Best Gozo Island Tours

Gozo & Comino Islands, Blue Lagoon & Seacaves Tour

It is an amazing choice if you want to experience both Gozo and Comino islands on the same day.

Hop on a boat in Bugibba and ride along the rugged coastline until you reach the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon. After swimming and snorkeling, you can also explore Victoria, the capital of Gozo.

Full-Day Gozo Jeep Tour with Lunch and Boat Ride

We recommend joining the Jeep Tour if you’d rather focus on Gozo. It includes hotel pick-up & drop-off, transfer, and lunch.

You can visit Ramla Bay, Calypso’s Cave, Ggantija Temple Complex, and Victoria. End your day with a 20-minute boat ride along the Blue Lagoon and Comino Caves.

Full-Day Gozo Quad Tour with Lunch and Boat Ride

Looking for something more adventurous? How about exploring the island on a quad? Visit Qala Belvedere viewpoint, Ramla Valley, salt pans, and Dwejra Bay. Hop on a boat and enjoy Blue Lagoon and Comino Caves.

The tour also includes hotel pick-up, round-trip transfer, ferry tickets, and a lunch.