Gozo
Three days in Gozo: a jam-packed weekend on our greener sister island
Is it just us, or does pizza from Maxokk ALWAYS have to factor in?

Kristina Cassar Dowling

I’ve never met anyone who doesn’t like Gozo. What is there to complain about really? Pretty much everything about the way of life is appealing, whether you’re heading up to the littler rock to relax or spend some time with your friends; it’s the perfect destination. A pre-uni trip could pretty much look like this:

Day 1

Morning: Make your way up to Gozo

Prepare a killer playlist for the drive up. The drive’s not half bad when your favourite tunes are playing in the background. Hopefully a gentle breeze will caress your car, allowing you to roll the windows down and enjoy the crisp air. If you manage to get on the first ferry leaving the harbour, drive right in and head to the bow of the ship - the best spot to watch the sister island draw closer.

Midday: Let’s get organised

After you’ve settled into your holiday home; unpacked your bags and acquainted yourself with your surroundings, it’s time to make the house feel like a home, and there’s no better way to do that than with food! Head to your favourite shopping centre and grab the necessary items for your weekend. Be sure to check for the basics before you leave, like charcoal, loo roll, washing up liquid and water.

Afternoon: It’s time to get your grub on

Finally, it’s time for lunch. Whether your shopping list featured something interesting to snack on for lunch or not; Gozo’s produce is usually pretty spot on. Why not start off easy? Hobz biz-zejt? Nothing better than a slice of Maltese bread with homemade tuna mix. If your shopping list didn’t think that far in advance; head to Victoria Centre and kick it in the pjazza.

Evening: Drink up

Well, this is a mini-holiday isn’t it? A couple of rounds can’t harm you when you’re on holiday, right? Head to the local, find a spot for your crew to spend the evening and order up! Play a few card games, crack a few jokes and share some laughs - you’re in for a spectacular night. Well, all of you besides the designated driver that is.

Day 2

Morning: Make everyone breakfast

That shopping list from yesterday’s trip to the mall must have featured the typical English Breakfast items - perfect to cure last night’s bad choices. Get up an hour before your mates and prepare the spread; cooking’s the fun part, get it done yourself and washing up can be passed on to the others. Sneaky but just as thoughtful. If the early fry-up’s not your thing; get some fruit into your system - fresh from the market and an excellent booster for a rough morning.

Midday: Do something cultural

Gozo is full of beautiful culture spots. From the Citadel to the Ggantija Temples, you’re bound to find an aesthetic or historical item to add to your itinerary. Plan your trip before you go; not all your buddies may be up for a culture bash, but a properly planned outing will keep everyone entertained.

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Afternoon: Sun’s out, guns out

The churches have been seen, the art appreciated - now let’s get real; it’s time to soak up the rays. Weather permitting; Gozo is a great place to sit and bask in the sun. You don’t necessarily have to head to the beach, but a trip to Ramla l-Hamra Bay never hurt anyone. Oil up and work on that tan or grab a frisbee and have a giggle with your besties. Share a Maxokk pizza for lunch - no Gozo trip is complete without it.

Evening: It’s BBQ time

You’re back home, it’s 5pm. You’ve had your siesta on the beach, now what to do? Eat again of course - but first, prep. Blast the speakers with some great tunes and get all your buddies to prepare for the evening BBQ. There’s nothing like the smell of charcoal burning to get your stomach grumbling for a great grill session. Drink a few beers and enjoy the night in good company.

Day 3

Morning: Packing time

This is the sad part. The weekend’s coming to an end. It’s time to say goodbye. Reluctant and fully aware of what the next day holds, you’ll need to pack your bags and get ready to vacate the premises by checkout. Ahhh, it was good while it lasted. But... there’s still an entire day ahead.

Midday: Head out for brunch

Gozo is full of great spots to grab a bite to eat. Skip breakfast today - you’re heading to some trendy café for brunch. Round up the crew - this is going to be great! Fuel up for the ‘long’ road ahead; this is your Last Supper made by Gozitan hands for the weekend. Taste the freshness, savour the flavours.

Afternoon: It’s time to head home

First things first, check the Ferry Departure Times and aim to be in the queue about 20 minutes before - there’s no saying you’ll make that trip, but at least you would have tried. Alternatively, wing it - drive by the harbour; park your car and grab a quick drink before you head back home to the motherland. As you stand at the far end of the stern, Gozo fading (slightly) into the shadows, you know you’ll be back - but not soon enough!

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Gozo is a tranquil place. The positivity that you get from our greener sister island is addictive. Plan your next trip, don’t forget to respect the locals and have a blast!


Kristina Cassar Dowling
Written by
Kristina Cassar Dowling
A local writer in love with the Maltese islands, Kristina is a hunter for all things cultural both in Malta and outside its shores. A curious foodie, music fanatic, art lover and keen traveller with an open mind and a passion for writing.

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