How to get from Malta to Gozo – Ferry Options, Prices & Travel Tips

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If you’re flying into Malta and planning to visit the smaller, quieter island of Gozo, you might be wondering exactly how to get from Malta airport to Gozo — especially if you’re travelling with kids, luggage, or a car. The good news? It’s easy, affordable, and there are several options to suit every type of traveller.

Gozo is Malta’s smaller, sleepier sister island — famous for its rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back charm. It’s the kind of place where days slow down, beaches stay blissfully uncrowded, and history is woven into every street. If you’re still deciding whether to add it to your itinerary, my Is Gozo worth visiting? guide will help you make up your mind. And once you’re convinced, my Top 10 things to do in Gozo post is packed with ideas to help you plan your time here.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to get from Malta to Gozo, including the best routes from Malta Airport to Gozo, ferry timetables, ticket prices, tour options, and my own experience making the journey with a toddler in tow.

From Malta Airport to Gozo: The Basics

Malta International Airport is the country’s only airport, located just outside Valletta, around a 15-20 minute drive. Gozo doesn’t have an airport, so anyone heading there needs to travel via Malta first.

How to Get from Malta Airport to Gozo by Ferry (Even at Night)

There are two main ferry services to reach Gozo:

1. Gozo Channel Ferry – departs from Ċirkewwa in the north of Malta; carries both passengers and vehicles.

2. Fast Ferry – departs from Valletta; for foot passengers only.

Gozo ferry

Option 1: Gozo Channel Ferry (Car & Passenger)

This is the main route most visitors take to Gozo. The Gozo Channel Ferry runs between Ċirkewwa (Malta’s northern tip) and Mġarr (Gozo’s main port) and is ideal if you’re travelling with a hire car or want more space to move around.

• Journey time: ~25 minutes

• Frequency: Every 30–45 minutes, daily

• Cost: Around €4.65 per adult (paid on your return from Gozo)

• Children: Under 3 travel free; ages 3–12 around €1.15

• Booking: No need to book in advance for foot passengers

Getting to Ċirkewwa from Malta Airport:

• Taxi or private transfer: 45–60 minutes

• Public bus: Around 90 minutes; route TD1 run directly to Ċirkewwa

This option is the most flexible, especially for families who want to bring a car seat, stroller, and luggage without worrying about space.

Option 2: Fast Ferry from Valletta (Foot Passengers Only)

If you’re staying in Valletta or nearby, the fast ferry is a great choice — especially for day trips.

• Journey time: ~45 minutes

• Operators: Gozo Highspeed and Virtu Ferries

• Cost: Around €6 per adult each way

• Children: Under 4 travel free; discounts often available for families

• Booking: Recommended online during peak season

Getting to Valletta Fast Ferry Terminal from Malta Airport:

• Taxi: Around 20 minutes

• Public bus: 30–40 minutes (routes X4 or X1)

You can bring luggage and pushchairs, but seating and storage space are more limited than the Gozo Channel Ferry.

Day Tours from Malta to Gozo

If you’d rather not worry about transport, several companies offer door-to-door day trips from Malta to Gozo. These tours usually include pick-up from your hotel, ferry tickets, and a guided itinerary on Gozo — perfect for short stays.

Gozo ferry terminal

Some tours also combine a stop at Comino’s Blue Lagoon, so you get two islands in one day. You can find options on Viator and GetYourGuide.

Ferry Timetables at a Glance

Route

Operator

Frequency

Duration

Car access

Ċirkewwa – Mġarr

Gozo Channel Line

Every 30–45 mins

25 min

Yes

Valletta – Mġarr

Gozo Highspeed / Virtu

~15 daily sailings

45 min

No

Always check official timetables before you travel — schedules can change seasonally.

My Experience Travelling from Malta Airport to Gozo

When we visited Gozo with our toddler, we chose the Gozo Channel Ferry from Ċirkewwa. We booked a taxi from the airport to the terminal and had time to grab a drink before boarding. The ferry had plenty of indoor seating, space for our luggage and stroller, and a big open deck where Eloise could watch the sea.

Our ferry was after midnight too and it was still really easy with no need to pre-book. The crossing took just 25 minutes to Mġarr.

On our way back, we travelled from Gozo straight to the airport and still made our flight comfortably — so it’s definitely doable even on a travel day.

Family-Friendly Travel Tips

• Avoid rush hours (early morning and late afternoon) to dodge commuter crowds.

• Bring snacks and drinks — ferries have cafés, but queues can be long.

• Sit outside for great views of Comino and the Blue Lagoon.

• Book a transfer if you have a lot of luggage or tired little ones.

FAQs About Getting from Malta Airport to Gozo

For foot passengers, no booking is needed for the Gozo Channel Ferry — just turn up. For the fast ferry from Valletta, booking online is recommended during busy periods.

Yes, but only on the Gozo Channel Ferry from Ċirkewwa. The fast ferry from Valletta is foot-passenger only.

Allow at least 90 minutes to 2 hours total, including travel from the airport to the terminal, ferry crossing, and any waiting time.

No — you’ll need to travel to either Ċirkewwa or Valletta ferry terminal first.

The public bus to Ċirkewwa plus the Gozo Channel Ferry is the most budget-friendly option.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Route

• Based in the north or driving? Gozo Channel Ferry from Ċirkewwa is ideal.

• Staying in Valletta or just visiting for the day? Try the fast ferry.

• Want everything arranged? Book a guided tour with ferry included.

Whichever you choose, the trip from Malta Airport to Gozo is straightforward, and getting there is part of the adventure. Once you arrive, my Is Gozo worth visiting? post can help you decide what to prioritise, and my Top 10 things to do in Gozo will make sure you don’t miss a thing.

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