Gozo is greener and much quieter than Malta, and where you stay decides how your trip feels. Victoria is the practical base, Marsalforn and Xlendi are the seaside choices, Mġarr is next to the ferry and village farmhouses offer private pools and peace. Here is how to choose.
2 to 3 nights
The minimum, or 4 to 5 nights to slow down
Victoria
The best base without a car
About 25 min
Ferry from Mġarr to Ċirkewwa
Farmhouses
Private pools in quiet villages
Where to Stay in Gozo: Best Areas
| Part | What it is like | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Victoria (Rabat) | A central town base with buses to the beaches and villages, plus shops and cafés; no beach | Short stays, first-timers and car-free trips |
| Marsalforn | A seafront resort 10 to 15 minutes from Victoria, with a small sandy beach; can be noisy and crowded in summer | Families and a seaside stay |
| Xlendi | A sheltered bay between cliffs on the south-west coast, good for swimming, snorkelling and sunsets; fewer shops | Swimming and sunsets |
| Mġarr, Għajnsielem and Fort Chambray | The harbour village by the ferry; the working port has no swimming, and most rooms are up the hill | Comino and Blue Lagoon boat trips |
| Village farmhouses | Quiet stone farmhouses with private pools in places such as Nadur, Xagħra, Għarb, Qala, San Lawrenz and Għasri | Peace and quiet, couples and groups |
Is it right for you?
Is Gozo a Good Place to Stay?
Good for
- A slower trip with quiet villages and farmhouses
- Couples and longer stays
- Swimming and snorkelling at Xlendi
- Boat trips to Comino from Mġarr
Watch out for
- A car is useful for the quieter villages, and buses are less frequent there
- You need the ferry for Malta’s sights, so many first-time visitors stay on Malta and visit Gozo as a day trip
- Popular farmhouses book early for summer and school holidays
- Għarb, Għasri and San Lawrenz are the quietest villages, so not every beach or restaurant is walkable
Getting Around Gozo
Public buses cover the island, but villages have fewer services, so Victoria is the best base if you do not want to drive. The ferry from Mġarr to Ċirkewwa takes about 25 minutes, and a fast ferry also links Gozo with Valletta, Sliema and Buġibba.
- Getting there: see how to get to Gozo and the Gozo ferry times and fares.
- What to see: our things to do in Gozo guide covers 12 places and day trips.
- Beaches: see the best beaches in Gozo.
Pick the right village
Stay in Victoria for buses and shops, Xlendi for swimming, and a farmhouse in Għarb, Għasri or San Lawrenz for the quietest nights, ideally with a hire car.
Hotels and Farmhouses in Gozo
Converted stone farmhouses with private pools are Gozo’s speciality, alongside hotels and apartments.
- The Grand Hotel Gozo: at Mġarr harbour, steps from the ferry, with sea views.
- Farmhouses: restored stone houses across the island, many with private pools, suited to couples and groups.
Prices, availability and reviews change often, so compare before you book.
Where to Stay in Gozo: FAQ
Where is the best place to stay in Gozo?
Victoria for a central, practical base, Xlendi or Marsalforn for the sea, Mġarr for the ferry, and a village farmhouse for peace and a private pool.
Do I need a car in Gozo?
A car is useful for the quieter villages. Buses cover the island, and Victoria is the best base if you do not want to drive.
How many nights should I stay in Gozo?
At least 2 to 3 nights, or 4 to 5 nights if you want to slow down.
Is it worth staying on Gozo?
Yes if you want a quieter trip. For a first visit to Malta, many people stay on Malta and visit Gozo as a day trip.
How long is the ferry to Gozo?
The Gozo Channel ferry from Ċirkewwa to Mġarr takes about 25 minutes. See Gozo ferry times and fares.
How we wrote this guideThis guide was researched and written by us at Experiences Malta, using the official and local sources listed below, and we review it through the year. Prices, timetables and opening hours change, so please check before you travel. More about Experiences Malta.
Sources: Malta Info Guide: where to stay in Gozo, Big World Small Pockets: ferries to Gozo.