A visit to the Maltese islands would not be complete without a trip to Gozo. Gozo is the smaller island in the archipealago at the north of Malta. Though close, Gozo and Malta are very different in character, with Gozo being often called the island where time stood still.

If Malta is small, Gozo is even smaller. But don’t let the size mislead you from spending at least a day on this island. Gozo offers beautiful landscapes, historical sites, unspoilt natural landscapes and warm welcoming people. You can really experience Maltese culture when you spend some time in the small Gozitan villages, as Gozo is a concentration of whatever is traditionally Maltese.

Any place in Gozo is unique and worth visiting. Every village square, church or viewpoint has a story to tell. Homer himself recounts Ulyses’s stay on the island, referred to in the Odessea as the fabled isle of Calypso. But let us highlight the most remarkable of sights; those which you definitely can’t miss. The Azure Window is one of the most common destinations for those who get off the ferry. Situated in Dwejra on the western coast of Gozo, this window has offered a natural backdrop for many adverts, films, calendars and photo shoots. An extension of the land is held in place by a massive pillar of stone jutting out of the Mediterranean sea creating a gigantic natural doorway. This site is also very popular with divers because of the ‘Blue hole’, a cave that leads through the cliffs to the inland sea. You can take a boat ride through the cave and around the cliffs nearby. The megalithic temple of Ggantija in the village of Xaghra, rightfully lives up to its name, meaning giant’s stones. Ggantija is reputed to be the oldest man-made building in the world, predating the pyramids by thousands of years.

Another well known tourist attraction is the Cittadella in Victoria. This old fortified city is quite similar to Mdina in Malta. You can enjoy beautiful views of Gozo from its fortified walls, then stroll along the narrow winding streets. The Cathedral, with its painted false dome, is a gem of baroque architecture and art. You can also visit the Folklore Museum to get an insight of traditional life in Gozo.

Gozo is also popular for ‘gbejniet’ which are cheeselets made from goat’s milk and usually covered in black pepper, a delicacy which you can’t miss. You’ll find bars which offer ‘gbejniet’, ‘tadam imqadded’ (sun dried tomatoes) and traditional Maltese bread together with a good glass of Gozitan homemade wine.

If you’re visiting Gozo in Summer, you’ll definitely wish to spend some time swimming. When it comes to bays and beaches you’ll be spoilt for choice. You can visit the picturesque Xlendi bay, touch the golden sand of ‘Ramla l-Hamra’ (Red Bay) just below Calypso’s cave, or find your own spot in Marsalforn Bay, a unique pebbled beach. In any case you’ll love the clear blue sea that Gozo has to offer.

If you’re planning an overnight stay in Gozo in Summer, take the benefit of staying during a weekend and visit one of the local parish feasts. Gozo can be reached by the car ferry that leaves from Cirkewwa in Malta approximately every 30 minutes. You can also take the shuttle bus service from the Luqa Airport which will take you directly to Cirkewwa. Another option is using the sea plane that departs from the Valletta Sea Passenger Terminal.

Don’t leave the Maltese islands without first visiting the enchanting island of Gozo.