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Travelling with Pets in Gozo
🇲🇹Gozo, Malta·Updated 19 June 2026
Reaching Gozo means crossing the channel from mainland Malta, and the practical question is always the same: how does the dog get across, and how do you get around once there. The Gozo Channel ferry between Cirkewwa and Mgarr is the main link and takes dogs on the open deck, while on Gozo itself most visitors travelling with a dog rely on a car. Remember that Malta drives on the left, so a hired car will feel different to most European visitors.
| Mode | Policy | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Gozo Channel Ferry (Cirkewwa to Mgarr) | Dogs travel on the open exterior deck, leashed or in a carrier, and are not allowed in the indoor lounge or cafeteria. The crossing takes about 25 minutes and you pay for the return on departure from Gozo, not on the way over. Owners are responsible for their pet and for cleaning up after it. | 💡 In summer the open deck is exposed and the metal gets hot. Stand your dog in shade and offer water on the crossing. |
| Public Bus (Tallinja, Gozo routes) | On Malta and Gozo public buses, only assistance dogs travel freely. All other pets must be in a suitable carrier or container held on your lap, so large dogs cannot use the bus. The owner is liable for any damage or injury caused by the animal on board. | 💡 For anything larger than a lap-sized dog, plan on a car or a pet-friendly taxi rather than the bus. |
| Car & Taxi | A car is the practical way to travel with a dog on Gozo, and the ferry carries vehicles. Malta drives on the LEFT. App and phone taxis can accept pets but it is at the driver's discretion, so state you have a dog when you book. | 💡 Never leave your dog in a parked car on Gozo. Interiors reach lethal temperatures within minutes in the summer sun. |
Useful transport links
Gozo Channel ferry timetable and fares: gozochannel.com. Check the crossing schedule, which runs frequently in summer and less often overnight. Malta Public Transport (Tallinja) for Gozo bus routes and the pet carrier rules: publictransport.com.mt. Car hire is widely available on Gozo and on the Malta side near the ferry; remember the island drives on the left.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take my dog on the Gozo ferry?
Yes. The Gozo Channel ferry between Cirkewwa and Mgarr carries dogs on the open outer deck, on a leash or in a carrier. Dogs are not allowed in the indoor lounge or cafeteria. The crossing is about 25 minutes and you pay the return fare when leaving Gozo.
Can I take a dog on the bus in Gozo?
Only assistance dogs travel freely. Other pets must be in a carrier held on your lap, so the bus only works for small dogs. For a medium or large dog, use a car or a pet-friendly taxi instead.
Do I need a car to get around Gozo with a dog?
For anything but a small carrier-sized dog, effectively yes. A car gives you flexibility for the coastal walks and beaches, and the ferry carries vehicles. Remember Malta drives on the left, and never leave a dog in a parked car in summer.
Pet-Friendly Hotels in Gozo
Our top-rated pet-friendly hotels, handpicked and verified.
Grotto's Paradise B&B
★★★ · 9.5/10
€75/night
MJ Farmhouse B&B
★★★ · 9.5/10
€100/night
Hotel Ben Marsalforn, Affiliated by Meliá
★★★ · 9.1/10
€90/night
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