Is A Jeep Day Trip to Gozo Worth It?
If you are planning a visit to Malta and trying to decide if a day trip to Gozo Island is worth your time, then this guide is for you. Gozo, the smaller island just off the coast of Malta, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and local culture that makes it a popular destination for a day trip.
I visited Malta and took a small group Jeep tour in February, and wrote this article to tell you everything you need to know to make the most of your day trip to Gozo Island, Malta.
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Getting to Gozo: Ferry Options and Tour Choices
Traveling from Malta to Gozo is straightforward, with several ferry options available. If you are in Valletta, the capital city of Malta, there is a high-speed passenger ferry that can take you across. Alternatively, from the northernmost port of Ċirkewwa, you can catch both passenger and car ferries that run 24 hours a day.
While it is possible to take your car on the ferry, I opted for a private speed boat transfer as part of an all-inclusive day trip package. This included hotel pickup and provided a much faster experience, since I would have had to pay for transportation to the ferry and the ferry across anyway.
If you are visiting Gozo for just one day, then it definitely makes sense to do an all-inclusive tour.
Exploring Gozo by Jeep or Tuk-Tuk
When we arrived at the main port of Mġarr on Gozo, I was greeted by an army of Jeeps and tuk-tuks ready to take tourists around the island. I had debated between a Jeep tour and a tuk-tuk tour but ultimately chose the Jeep for its power and slightly less obstructed views. While the Jeep was less cute, it had more horsepower, so when we climbed the steep hills out of the harbor, I decided right away that choosing the Jeep was a good decision. Plus, we were treated to the first breathtaking panoramas of the Mediterranean.
The open-air Jeep provided a sense of adventure and closeness to the landscape that made the experience special –much better than a tour bus! That being said, the Jeep was still bumpy and we were exposed to the sun, so on really hot days or for those with health problems, an air-conditioned vehicle would probably be better.
I paid 80 euros (under $100 US) for the tour, which I thought was a great price considering it included hotel pick-up, the boat ride, and lunch, too. For just a bit more money, there is also an option to do one of the following versions:
- Electric vehicle tour (you drive)
- Buggy tour (you drive)
- Quad bike (you drive)
- Private vehicle (guide drives)
- Tuk Tuk (guide drives)
The Beaches of Gozo in Winter
Gozo is known for its beautiful beaches, and while I visited in February when swimming was not an option due to the cold, the coastline was still spectacular. One of my favorite stops was Dwejra Bay, particularly for the colorful doors set against the bright yellow limestone rock that is iconic to Malta and Gozo. If you touch the limestone rocks, you’ll see they are soft and weather quickly, so there are lots of tide pools and crevices to explore.
If you plan to swim during warmer months, be aware of jellyfish, which can sometimes be found in the waters around Gozo. However, the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters make it a perfect spot for sunbathing, snorkeling, and simply relaxing by the sea. In summer, the Jeep tour does make a stop for a quick swim, so bring your swimsuit.
The Capital City of Victoria
One of the central highlights of the day trip was visiting Victoria, the capital city of Gozo. Sitting atop a hill, the Citadel dominates the landscape and offers panoramic views of the entire island. Admission to the Citadel was included in the tour price, and it was well worth the visit.
The Citadel and surrounding watchtowers were historically built as defenses against Ottoman invasions. In 1551, the island suffered a devastating attack by the Turks, during which thousands of inhabitants were killed or enslaved. This tragic event is a tragic part of Gozo’s history and helps explain the importance of the eventual victory of the Knights of St. John over the Turks, a pivotal moment in Maltese history.
In fact, throughout Gozo, you will notice numerous watchtowers dotting the landscape. These were crucial for early warning systems against invaders, allowing the islanders to prepare and protect themselves after 1551. Visiting these sites reminds tourists of the island’s turbulent past and the resilience of its people.
Other Must-See Sites on Gozo
After exploring Victoria, the Jeep took us along the eastern coast to Ramla Bay, known for its reddish sand and a cave said to be Calypso’s Cave, referenced in Homer’s Odyssey. Unfortunately, the cave was closed to tourists due to safety concerns, but the surrounding area offers beautiful views and a chance to imagine the myths that surround it.
Continuing westward, we passed an aqueduct built by the British in 1839—a reminder of Gozo’s layered history of rulers.
The tour usually visits the ancient temples of Ġgantija, since they are a significant historical attraction on the island. Our guide gave our group the choice to go there (although the entry fee was not included in the tour) or spend more time at some other sights. He said that there is not much of the ruins that you can actually see, so tourists are often disappointed.
My small group chose to skip Ġgantija on this tour, but know that you might not have the choice to visit them or you might be outvoted by your group members.
We then made a stop for lunch, along with many other Jeeps, at a small restaurant near Victoria that had a buffet of yummy Maltese food.
The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta’ Pinu
This relatively new basilica is a spiritual and cultural highlight of Gozo. I wasn’t expecting much but was very impressed with the architecture and the size, especially considering all of the other great churches in Malta. Pilgrims and even popes have visited this shrine, and inside you can find letters and artifacts from around the world thanking the Virgin Mary for her intercession.
Natural Wonders: Wied il-Mielah and Salt Pans
On the northern side of Gozo, two distinct attractions stand out: the remnants of the Azure Window and the traditional salt pans.
Sadly, the most famous natural arch on Gozo, the Azure Window collapsed in 2017, but further north, the natural arch known as Wied il-Mielah, is still a stunning spot for viewing and photography. The rugged coastline here highlights Gozo’s natural beauty, so don’t forget your camera!
Nearby, you can find centuries-old salt pans where seawater is evaporated in a series of shallow pools to produce salt. This traditional method has been preserved by local families for generations, although I got the impression that it’s mostly sold to tourists nowadays. Visitors have the chance to taste the salt and purchase some as a unique souvenir.
One quirky and charming feature I noticed on Gozo and Malta were the numerous cat houses for wild or semi-wild cats. There were cute little houses in a number of places on the island, and I had read that the Maltese are very fond of cats. So, if you are too, you’ll be able to have some cat snuggles on your trip.
The Return Journey: Blue Lagoon and Comino
By around 4:00pm it was time to head back, and looking at the map we had really explored the whole island!
The boat ride back to Malta included a scenic passage through the Blue Lagoon and some caves on the island of Comino. The Blue Lagoon is famed for its turquoise waters and is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling during warmer months. Even in February, the views were mesmerizing, providing a perfect end to a whirlwind day on Gozo.
Is a Day Trip to Gozo Island Malta Worth It?
If you have more than three days in Malta, I would definitely spend one in Gozo. My Gozo Jeep day trip was one of the highlights of my Maltese adventure. The combination of a private speed boat, Jeep tour, and knowledgeable guide allowed me to see the whole island’s key sights in a day.
However, if you prefer a slower pace or want to spend more time enjoying the beaches and local atmosphere, I recommend staying overnight on Gozo. The island’s laid-back vibe and charming accommodations make it an ideal place to unwind and explore at leisure.
Final Thoughts
Gozo Island offers an incredible mix of natural beauty, historical depth, and cultural richness that makes a day trip from Malta a rewarding experience. From panoramic coastal views and ancient watchtowers to vibrant churches and traditional salt pans, a Jeep day trip to Gozo fits so many different sights into one day.
So pack your camera, bring comfortable shoes, and get ready to discover the wonders of Gozo on your next visit to Malta!
