Exploring By Bus

One of the easiest and cheapest ways to get around Gozo is by using the public bus system. Single fares cost just €1.50, making the buses an affordable option for budget travellers. The routes cover most of the main towns and villages across the island. While the buses don't run on a strict timetable, they are fairly frequent on the main routes. Be sure to carry some change, as tickets must be purchased directly from the driver. The buses allow you to set your own pace while seeing the sights, and you can hop on and off wherever takes your fancy.

Walking or Cycling Between Towns

Gozo's compact size makes it ideal for exploring on foot or by bike. The coastal road connecting the capital, Victoria, to the resort town of Marsalforn offers spectacular ocean views along the way. Heading inland, trails and quiet country lanes winding through sleepy villages and past historic churches provide a wonderful glimpse of traditional Gozitan life. There are several places where you can rent bikes by the hour or day for very reasonable prices. Pack a picnic, stock up on water, and spend an active day immersing yourself in Gozo's natural beauty.

Exploring Gozo by Boat

One of the highlights of any trip to Gozo is spending a day out on the water. Surrounded by the brilliant blue Mediterranean Sea, part of the appeal of these Maltese islands is found along the coastlines. Some excellent boat trip options exist that won't break the budget.

The Gozo and Comino day trip is an excellent value full-day excursion that cruises around the islands of Gozo and Comino, providing unique sea views of the dramatic coastlines. Stops are made for swimming and snorkelling in secluded bays and grottos. The boat anchors on Comino for several hours, giving you time to relax on the idyllic sandy beach or explore the Blue Lagoon.

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For the ultimate flexibility, you can also rent your own boat for a few hours or a full day. No license is required for craft under 12 metres. Shared rental with other travellers can make this option even more affordable.

Dining at Local Restaurants

Enjoying delicious food and drink in Gozo doesn't mean breaking the budget. There are plenty of reasonably priced restaurants serving up tasty local cuisine. Seafood lovers will find delicious fresh fish and shellfish expertly prepared in Maltese style. Look out for seasonal specialities like lampuki fish in autumn. Many restaurants offer good value set menus, which can be a cost-effective way to sample an array of local flavours.

When dining out, having the 'meal of the day' is often good value, as is avoiding alcohol, which can really bump up the bill. Stick to free tap water rather than buying bottled, and you can eat well on Gozo without overspending.

Visiting the Best Beaches for Free

You don't have to break the bank to spend a day relaxing on Gozo's lovely beaches. Many of the most beautiful spots can be reached by public transport or a short walk and offer free access. Ramla Bay, with its distinctive red sand, is walkable from the village of Xaghra. Take the bus to Marsalforn, from where the bay is a 20-minute walk away. At Mgarr ix-Xini Bay, you can swim off the pebbly beach and surrounding rocks. Hondoq ir-Rummien is another picturesque pebble beach reachable via bus route. Pack your own snacks and enjoy a free day by the sea.

Gozo offers an abundance of excellent and cost-effective ways to explore that won't break the budget. Use the handy buses to get around, walk or cycle through picturesque countryside, or spend a day out on the Mediterranean waters. Dine well at local restaurants and relax on free beaches. You're sure to fall in love with the charm and beauty of Gozo, even while travelling on a budget.