Still Travels

Welcome to Gozo, Malta’s tranquil sister island! This 5-day itinerary ensures you experience the island’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delectable cuisine.

Day 1: Arrival in Malta & Journey to Gozo

• Arrive at: Malta International Airport (MLA)
• Car Rental:
  • Pick up your rental car directly at the airport. Recommended agencies: Avis, Hertz, or local provider Meli Car Rentals.
  • Alternatively, arrange a taxi to the Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal (€25–€35) and rent a car in Gozo via Joe’s Garage or Gozo Garage.

Itinerary:

1. Ferry to Gozo:
   • Drive or taxi to Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal (~40 minutes).
   • Take the Gozo Channel Ferry (~€4.65/person). Enjoy views of Comino en route!
2. Check-in:
   • Stay at Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz for a luxurious experience.
   • For a boutique stay, try Quaint Boutique Hotel in Victoria (€100–€200/night).
3. Evening:
   • Relax and explore the quaint village of San Lawrenz.

Dinner:

• Ta’ Rikardu (Victoria): Enjoy fresh Gozitan cheese platters, local wine, and rabbit stew.

Day 2: Explore Victoria & the Citadel

Morning:

• Start your day in Victoria, Gozo’s capital.
• Visit the iconic Citadel, a hilltop fortress with panoramic views and historic museums.
• Explore St. George’s Basilica and shop for souvenirs at local artisan stalls.

Lunch:

• Maldonado Bistro (Victoria): Mediterranean dishes with a modern twist.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Gozo Museum of Archaeology within the Citadel.
• Stroll through Victoria’s winding streets to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Evening Activity:

• Attend a wine tasting at Ta’ Mena Estate. Sample local wines and traditional delicacies.

Day 3: Beach Day & Coastal Wonders

Morning:

• Head to Ramla Bay, Gozo’s most famous beach, with golden-red sand and clear waters.
• Visit the nearby Calypso Cave, rumored to be where Odysseus was held captive in Homer’s Odyssey.

Lunch:

• Il-Kcina Ghawdxija (Xagħra): Authentic Gozitan dishes in a cozy setting.

Afternoon:

• Drive to Dwejra Bay:
  • Marvel at the Inland Sea and Fungus Rock.
  • Take a boat tour through the cliffs and caves (€10/person).

Dinner:

• Azure Window Restaurant (Dwejra): Fresh seafood with stunning sunset views.

Day 4: Adventure & Hidden Gems

Morning:

• Go diving or snorkeling at the Blue Hole and Coral Gardens. If you’re new to diving, book with a local provider like Bubbles Dive Centre.
• Non-divers can explore the area’s coastal hiking trails.

Lunch:

• Ta’ Philip (Ghajnsielem): Farm-to-table specialties.

Afternoon:

• Visit Xlendi Bay, a picturesque coastal village.
• Kayak or paddleboard along the coast, or simply enjoy the views from a café.

Evening:

• Head to Marsalforn for a relaxed evening by the sea.

Dinner:

• Pebbles Restaurant (Marsalforn): Renowned for their seafood platters.

Day 5: Wrap Up & Departure

Morning:

• Visit Ggantija Temples (UNESCO World Heritage Site), one of the world’s oldest freestanding structures.
• Stop by the Salt Pans near Marsalforn for unique photo opportunities and learn about traditional salt harvesting.

Lunch:

• Zebbug Rovers Bar & Grill: Casual spot with local specialties.

Afternoon:

• Spend your last hours exploring Gozo’s rural countryside.
• Return to the ferry terminal for your journey back to Malta.

Evening Departure:

• Drop off your car at Malta International Airport and prepare for your flight.

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

1. Currency: Malta uses the Euro (€). ATMs are readily available.
2. Driving: Drive on the left-hand side. Roads in Gozo are narrow but scenic.
3. Packing:
   • Comfortable walking shoes for historic sites and hiking.
   • Beachwear and reef-safe sunscreen for water activities.
4. Local Etiquette:
   • Dress modestly when visiting churches.
   • Tipping (~10%) is appreciated in restaurants.
5. Language: Maltese and English are official languages. Most locals speak fluent English.
6. Ferry Schedule: The ferry runs frequently; check the schedule online to avoid delays.
7. Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is widely available in most accommodations and public areas.
8. Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds and Summer (July–August) is ideal for beachgoers but can be crowded and hot.

Enjoy Gozo’s charm, where every corner invites you to relax, explore, and savor the Mediterranean magic!

If you’re looking to tailor your Gozo experience even further, no worries—I’ve got you covered! I work closely with destination management companies that specialize in creating bespoke itineraries. Whether it’s a private yacht tour, exclusive culinary experiences, or off-the-beaten-path adventures, they can craft a trip designed just for you. Please note that their minimum budget starts at $3,500. Let’s make your dream getaway truly unforgettable!

Please check out my Portugal travel guide here.