tour malta 10 giorni

10 Days in Malta: Ultimate 10-Day Itinerary

Recommended 9 or 10 days Malta itinerary

Have you decided to  go on a trip to  Malta ?

In order to help you organize your stay, we have prepared  a 10-day Malta itinerary (or more!) to see all  the must-see places of interest  in one of the smallest countries in Europe.

On the program:  Valletta , Mdina, the most beautiful beaches,  Gozo ,  and much more!

Also find all  our advice and tips  for visiting Malta in 9-10-11 days as well as our  selection of the best accommodation  for each stage.

So,  what to do and see in Malta in 10 days? 

Table of Contents

Day 1-2: Valletta

To visit Malta in 10 days, what better than to start by  discovering the capital: Valletta.

Malta International Airport  is a few kilometers from the city.  To join, you have several options:

• By car  but for the moment I do not necessarily recommend that you rent one. Valletta can be visited very well on foot, and you will find it difficult to park inside the city, unless you have chosen a hotel with parking. On the other hand,  car rental will be essential for the rest of your  Malta itinerary  because the buses are often crowded and unfortunately not on time!
• By bus,  it is the most economical solution. A trip costs only €1.50 during low season and €2 in summer. The X4 bus connects the airport to Valletta in 25 minutes and there are departures every 1/2 hour.
• By taxi.  Do not take the official taxis (the white ones) as they are the most expensive. Taxify and eCabs are available in Malta and offer better rates.
• Most hotels  in Valletta also offer  transfer services , do not hesitate to inquire about the proposed rate.

For this first day  of your 10-day itinerary in Malta, you are therefore ready to  visit Valletta.

I suggest you start with the must-see monument:  Saint John’s Co-Cathedral.  Quite plain on the outside, its interior is truly sumptuous with  its pillars and entire walls covered in gold . The place houses  8 chapels  and  the tombs of the Knights of the Order of Malta . Allow an hour for the visit.

Then continue with the discovery of the  Palace of the Grand Masters . You can visit  the state apartments  and especially  the impressive armory  where the weapons and armor of the knights are stored.

At the exit,  join the Lower Barraka Garden  (the lower garden), a pretty garden allowing you to admire the  view of the sea and the Three Cities  which are just opposite Valletta. There is also a very photogenic monument:  the Siege Bell War Monument.

Then continue through  the Upper Barraka Garden,  which, on the same principle, also offers a  breathtaking view of the Three Cities  opposite and the sea. A must do during your 9-10 day trip to Malta.

And since you admired them from afar, I now suggest you take a  look at the Three Cities.  Nothing could be simpler, take  the lift from the Upper Barraka , cross the road and turn left to reach the quays.

You will find the river shuttle  there which regularly goes  back and forth for 2.80€  per person. The crossing only takes  10 minutes . Arriving safely, the best way to discover the Three Cities is simply to  walk through the alleys  and admire the  many viewpoints over Valletta.

At the end of the afternoon,  take the boat back  and end the day in Valletta by  the streets of Republic Street and Merchant Street  gathering all the  shops, bars and restaurants.

Spend a night in Valletta.

Tips for your Malta itinerary:

To learn more about the  history of Valletta , nothing better than a  guided walking tour  with a super interesting guide!  To book here.

Visit also available   as a private tour   (  book here!  ) or dedicated specifically to the Second World War period (  book here!  ).

Guided walking tours  are also possible  for the 3 Cités  and they even include a  tasting of local wines!

Finally, you can also give yourself a quieter moment to  take a trip on a traditional Maltese boat , a luzzu, and contemplate Valletta from the sea.  Click here to access the details!

For the second day  of your 10-day tour in Malta, we continue the  visit to Valletta.

In the morning, go to  Casa Roca Piccola.  This palace has seen nearly  9 generations of the same family . It is the only one still inhabited by individuals. The owners offer  guided  tours to learn more about the  lifestyle of an aristocratic Maltese family. 

You will visit a  dozen rooms  decorated with  everyday objects from the past.

Then continue through  Fort Saint-Elme  which houses  the National War Museum . The history of Malta, the construction of the Fort as well as the various wars which took place on the island are very well explained there.

For the afternoon , I recommend that you take a  river shuttle  again , but this time  to reach Sliema . From there, you can take a nice  walk along the seafront .

There are also  shopping centers  and lots of shops, it’s the perfect place to  shop in Malta.

Return to spend the night in Valletta.

For more details on Valletta, read our article:  The Complete Guide to Visiting Valletta.

If you preferred to rent a car upon arrival and your hotel does not have parking, you can  park it at the MCP car park.

The rates are reasonable  and it is only a  5 minute walk from the center of Valletta .

Accommodation in Valletta

• Private Room  : Located 300 meters from Fort Saint-Elme and 700 meters from the Upper Barraka Garden. Comfortable double room from €75, per night including breakfast. Most: the excellent location, the welcome and kindness of the host, the calm.
• Grand Harbor Hotel  : Hotel with traditional architecture, located in the city center of Valletta, just 100 meters from the Upper Barraka Gardens. Basic double room from €90 per night or with a view of the sea and the Three Cities for €110, breakfast included. Most: ideal location, magnificent view, the roof terrace.
• Tano’s Boutique guesthouse  : Hotel located in the center of Valletta, close to all the places to visit. Spacious and bright double room from €115 per night. The pluses: the central location, the calm, the roof terrace for breakfast.  Our big favorite for its performance / price ratio!
• Grand Hotel Excelsior  :  5* hotel located by the sea, the view is truly sublime! Very nice rooms from 170€ per night. Most: The swimming pool, the jacuzzi, the free parking, the excellent breakfast, the view, the service, and many other things that will make your stay truly exceptional!  Our big favorite in Valletta.
• Hotel Phenicia Malta  : Luxury hotel located on City Gate Square. Spacious, bright and tastefully decorated double room from €235, breakfast at €17. The pluses: the infinity pool with a view of the port, the huge garden, the location and the free private parking.  Do you want to please your sweetheart during your Malta itinerary ? Spend a night there!

Day 3-5: Mellieha

For the second stage  of this 9-10 day stay in Malta,  leave Valletta  to  head towards the north of the island.

For this,  renting a car is essential  to see the maximum of things during the rest of your vacation.

The best is to  pick it up directly at the airport  so that you can  return it to the same place at the end of your  10-day road trip in Malta.

After picking up your car, I suggest you go to Mdina  first . Pretty  fortified city , the city was the  first capital of Malta  before Valletta was preferred by the knights for its strategic position by the sea.

Take a walk inside the ramparts  and don’t miss seeing  Saint Paul’s Cathedral  or  the Vilhena Palace.

Here too,  history buffs  can opt for a  guided tour of Mdina:

• Guided walking tour of Mdina:   the meeting point is at the main entrance of Mdina
• Private Guided Walking Tour:   The same tour as above, but just for your group! The tour departure date and time are flexible depending on your schedule.

As you leave Mdina, go through  the Mdina Gate  (the bridge that overlooks the moat), cross the large wooded park to go  to the neighboring city, Rabat.  You just have to cross the street to be there.

Having  served as a refuge for the Apostle Saint Paul  after he was shipwrecked in Malta, many people come to meditate  at the church or in the grotto  dedicated to him. If you are not believers, it is still to see and you can also walk  in the alleys.

Then get back in the car and  go to Mosta . The city is famous for its  monumental church  whose architecture is strongly  inspired by the pantheon of  Rome . 

Your ascent in the North of the island ends  when you arrive in Mellieha , the stopover town for the next 3 nights.

Mellieha has a  very large sandy beach with shallow water , ideal for ending the day and swimming for the first time in Maltese waters!

The beach is  well equipped  with deckchairs and parasols, and you will also find  several bars  and toilets there.

Spend the night in Mellieha.

Today, to continue your 9-10 day Malta itinerary, I suggest a day in relaxation mode.

Mellieha se trouve non loin de  2 des plus belles plages de sable  de Malte:  Gnejna Bay  et  Ghajn Tuffieha Bay. 

It would be a shame not to take advantage of it! In addition it is very practical because  the 2 beaches are adjacent  and, as personally, I can’t really decide between them, I suggest you go for  a walk on the 2  to choose where you want to spend the day.

You can also  spend a morning at one  of the beaches and  the afternoon on the next one.

In any case, the 2 are located in a  fairly natural setting  and are really nice. You can  rent deckchairs and parasols  there and there is also a  bar / restaurant  on each of them for the lunch break.

They also have  car parks  but you will have to leave a room for the guards.

Spend a second night in Mellieha.

You can also take advantage of this day to test one of the  best activities to do in Malta: diving!

In Malta , you can choose between   2 types of first dives:

• Baptism adventure , with theoretical course + diving up to 12 meters deep
• VIP baptism with private instructor:   the same thing, but with an instructor just for you and your family/group!

I have selected  the best center on the island for you:

• All the instructors are French-speaking  and ultra-qualified (they have dived all over the world)
• The equipment is new  and of course meets safety standards
• It’s a small dive center  and not a tourist factory, which makes all the difference and allows you to live a great experience: there are only  4 divers maximum per group.

In addition, the prices are very attractive: you can   do a first dive in Malta  for only  69 euros  per person! And at that price, it’s  a real baptism  that awaits you:  1 hour underwater  and the possibility of  descending to a depth of 12 meters.

The next day, set off for  one of the  must-do main attractions of your 10-day trip to Malta:  the tiny island of Comino.

It is certainly  the most touristic place in Malta  and you must have already heard of its  Blue Lagoon , a lagoon with incredibly turquoise and transparent water. Impossible to visit Malta without going to see it and of course swimming there!

To get there  from Mellieha , you just have to  reach Marfa or Cirkewwa,  10 minutes away by car. From these 2 places, you can  take a small boat  that shuttles  to Comino . The price is  13€ round trip  for 25 minutes. There are about every 1/2 hour.

This solution is the most suitable if you want to be totally independent on Comino.

If you wish, you can also  choose a big boat day trip  with buffet lunch included. It must be  reserved in advance directly here:

1)  Blue Lagoon Boat Trip:   The Classic Blue Lagoon Day Cruise. Possibility of being picked up from most cities in Malta (at an additional cost, to be arranged after your reservation)

2)  Blue Lagoon catamaran cruise:   same as above but on a large catamaran! An excellent choice for a great day at sea. Pick-up also available from several locations (location to be determined after your reservation).

3)  Sailing trip to the Blue Lagoon   and other pretty bays: the best option for swimming in great places besides the Blue Lagoon! Snacks, wine and lunch + free transport from Malta are included.

For the less touristy  version , you can also choose to  take a private Blue Lagoon cruise from Comino:

4)  Private cruise to Comino and Gozo (3h30)  :   simply   the best private boat tour to visit Comino   and the Blue Lagoon. Josef, your skipper, will do everything to ensure that you have an extraordinary day at sea.

On the program:  swimming stops at the Blue Lagoon and the Crystal Lagoon  (snorkeling equipment included!) as well as a  visit to the sea caves of Comino.

Josef also offers  a full day tour. 

As Josef only offers  one cruise per day,  I advise you to  book your private Comino boat trip in advance.

A small precision,  do not expect to be alone and quiet , Comino is full of people and there is a lot of noise, especially because of the permanent music that escapes from the boats. The atmosphere is rather young.

On Comino, after the  obligatory swimming at the Blue Lagoon , I recommend that you  take a walk along the island . Take the  opportunity to see the tower  there and admire the  many viewpoints.

There is also  another beach  (less frequented) which is located  next to the only hotel on the island.

To eat, there are  food trucks,  which contrary to what one might think, offer sandwiches and drinks at reasonable prices and it’s really not bad.

After this day in Comino,  return for a last night in Mellieha.

Accommodation in Mellieha

• Pergola Hotel & Spa : Located in Mellieha, overlooking the bay, the church and the village, Gozo and Comino. Studio with equipped kitchenette from  €80,  breakfast €8. The pluses: the possibility of cooking, the view, excellent service, the 3 swimming pools.
• Maritim Antonine Hotel & spa  : Located in the town of Mellieha, 1 km from a large sandy beach. Huge and elegant double room from  €  140 per night, breakfast included. The pluses: rooftop swimming pool on the 9th  floor  offering a panoramic view of the entire bay, heated swimming pool and jacuzzi, varied and plentiful buffet, proximity to bus stops to get to Valletta or the beach.  It is our favorite for its performance / price ratio.
• Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands  : Located in Golden Bay, 2 minutes walk from a beautiful beach. Large double room with balcony and view of the sea or the countryside from €150 per night, breakfast at €20. The pluses: access to the beach, the view, the delicious breakfast, in summer  the price includes the provision of deckchairs and parasols on the private beach.

Day 6-8: Gozo

For the third leg  of this 10-day tour of Malta, I’m taking you  to visit Malta’s little sister, the island of Gozo.

Much  more rural and wild , it was one of my favorites of my holidays in Malta.

To reach Gozo,  go to Cirkewwa. This is where you can  board the ferry  that takes you to Gozo in just 20 minutes. You can board there  with your rental car .

Don’t be surprised, you won’t have  to pay anything on the way.  Payment is made on return in the Gozo-Malta direction. I’ll tell you about it later.

Arrived on Gozo, it will only take you 10 minutes to reach  the main city, Victoria or Rabat  (in Maltese). In Victoria, you should not miss  the citadel,  which you must have already seen when you arrive because it dominates the city.

The  fortified part of the city , which has been completely renovated, notably houses  the old prisons and a cathedral . But above all, it allows you to admire a  360° panorama of the entire island of Gozo.

For your lunch break, you will find  several restaurants in the square  below the citadel and  along the Triq Repubblika , the main artery of the city.

There are also  souvenir shops  selling local products (honey, cheese, olive oil) and  clothing stores  if you want to shop.

In the afternoon,   head to the North West of the island,  and more precisely  to Dwejra,  where the emblem of Gozo was previously located:  the Azure Window.  Although the arch has collapsed, the site is worth seeing.

You will also find  the Blue Hole  (famous for diving),  the Inland Sea  (the inland sea) and  the Fungus Rock  (the mushroom rock).  Boat trips  are possible in the Inland Sea and around the old Azure Window.

On the return to Victoria,  visit the Basilica of Ta’Pinu . You will inevitably be impressed by  its size and its architecture . She is also very photogenic. In front of the basilica, a way of the cross allows you to climb to the top of the hill to observe the view.

Sleep a first night in Gozo.

On the program for the  second day in Gozo , I suggest you start with a walk along the  salt marshes of Marsalforn . This is one of my favorite landscapes on the island!

Take a walk until you reach  Wied il Gashri,  a canyon carved out by the sea in which you can cool off (if there are no jellyfish!). The place is also famous for diving.

In the afternoon, enjoy the  largest sandy beach in Gozo: Ramla Bay . And be sure to climb the path that winds up the hill to the right of the beach to reach a cave. The view of the beach is super pretty.

And if you  want a little more action  for this afternoon in Gozo, I recommend you  try one of the many water activities:

• First dive in Gozo  (in the best diving club) – The destination is renowned for being one of the best spots! And if you already have some diving experience, you can also book  “1 day – 2 dives” (click here)   and   “2 days – 4 dives” (click here)  packages .
• Jet Ski Tour – Follow your instructor for the Comino and Sea Caves Tour from Gozo
• Subwing   – The latest in vogue watersport activity is available in Gozo!
• A snorkeling session with a guide
• Rent a jet ski
• SUP (Stand Up Paddle) 3h guided tour
• SUP 3 hour guided tour at sunset
• Paddle day + night experience
• Boat rental without license 
• Rent a boat with license

Finish the day by admiring the sunset over  the cliffs of Ta Cenc.

Spend a second night on Gozo.

Continue this 10-day stay in Malta with a  last day on Gozo.

There are several super nice and pleasant  hikes that allow you to  discover the island on foot  and along the seaside.

The trails do not present  any particular difficulties , except perhaps for some steep passages where you have to be more vigilant. In any case,  hiking shoes  or sneakers are strongly recommended.

I therefore recommend that you  choose a hike to do in the morning . The trails are not indicated, you can consult  this website .  You will find a  dozen guides  each detailing a walk with things to see.

And if you also want to take advantage of these walks to  learn more about the island, the local fauna and flora , I advise you to book a  hike with a guide living in Gozo.

You will have the choice between  a 2 hour hike or a full day.

Spend one last night in Gozo.

If you want more information about the island of Gozo, see our article:  What to do and see in Gozo?

If you don’t feel like driving, there are plenty of ways to see Gozo too.

Personally, I tested  the quad tour  during my stay in Gozo and I loved it! It allows you to  discover the places of interest  that I have just told you about in a fun way and with  a local guide.

In Gozo, you will have the choice between  2 types of excursions.  Simply  click directly on the links in orange below to book  (remember to book in advance because places are limited!):

• VIP Gozo Quad Bike   Full Day Tour: Simply the best quad bike tour to do in Malta!  In a small group + Exceptional guide   + Visit of the   most beautiful places in Gozo   (including superb hidden corners!) + Lunch in a good   restaurant with a view   and much more!  A 5* tour  for an exceptional day.
• Quad day tour in Gozo:   the classic quad tour with visit to the main places of interest of the island in one day.  Transport included from Malta and buffet lunch included.  Also available for half a day here!

If the quad does not tempt you, you will also have the possibility of opting for another excursion (do not hesitate to  click on the links below  to find out everything and book):

• Guided tour of Gozo by Jeep  
• Guided Tour of Gozo by Private Jeep
• Guided tour of Gozo by scooter
• A hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour .

Accommodation in Gozo

• Guesthouse Bambina  : Guesthouse located in Xaghra, 10 minutes walk from the beach. Double room with modern and zen decoration from 75€. Most: superb house with swimming pool and a magnificent view of Gozo, warm welcome, access to the beach on foot, and the totally unbeatable price.  Our choice for its excellent price/performance ratio!
• Casa Gemelli Boutique Guesthouse  : Charming hotel located in Victoria, the main town of Gozo. Entirely renovated double room with decoration mixing traditional and modern from 90€, breakfast included. The pluses: location in Victoria allowing you to take all the buses, the homemade breakfast, the friendliness and the precious advice of the staff.
• The Duke Boutique Hostel  : Establishment located in the center of Victoria. Huge and comfortable double room from  €  100 per night, breakfast included. The pluses: the location, great bedding, the view from the roof terrace, the varied and hearty breakfast, the availability of staff, some rooms with a jacuzzi on the terrace.
• Kempiski Hotel San Lawrenz    : Luxury hotel located in San Lawrenz, near the Inland Sea and the Ta’Pinu Basilica. Spacious and modern double room with balcony from €116 per night, breakfast at an additional €25. Most: the magnificent view, huge swimming pools, indoor swimming pool, free parking, exceptional breakfast, the spa.  This is simply the best hotel in Gozo . You only have 10 days in Malta, enjoy!

And if you prefer to stay in an apartment during your stay in Gozo,  I recommend  The Holiday Hub Gozo.

Located on the top floor (penthouse) of a typical Maltese stone building with a nice patio, this  modern and fully equipped accommodation has 3 large bedrooms + 2 bathrooms.

Can accommodate  up to 6 people , it is the best for a trip with family or friends!

It also has  2 beautiful terraces  (75m²), ideal for taking your breakfast in the sun or an aperitif at the end of the day.

And we end with the highlight of the show:  access to the 150m² rooftop with an above-ground swimming pool, a jacuzzi and a barbecue.

Something to relax after a good day of sightseeing!

The pluses:  the calm, the ideal location for visiting Gozo, the furnished roof terrace and its superb view +  the owners are very friendly and speak French!

Our favorite in Gozo, to book well in advance!

To book your stay at The Holiday Hub.

Day 9: Marsaxlokk

Finally, the  last stage  of this 9-10 day road trip to Malta takes you all the way  to the south of the island of Malta.

Take the  ferry in the opposite direction.  This is when you will need  to pay for your trip . Count about twenty euros for a car and 2 people.

For this day, I suggest you  join Marsaxlokk .  A very practical  city for your departure the next day because it is  only 15 minutes from the airport.

On the North and South route,  several stops are to be made  to see the  last must-sees  of this 10-day itinerary in Malta:

• Popeye Village where the film “Popeye” with Robin Williams was filmed. The film sets have been kept to make it a mini amusement park but it’s really not worth paying to enter. On the other hand, from the top of the cliff, and with its colorful houses, the place is really photogenic.
• The cliffs of Dingli,  the highest point of the island of Malta, offer a beautiful panorama.
• The Blue Grotto  or the Blue Grotto, famous for its water color. You can see it from a lookout point just outside the village of Zurrieq or take a 30-minute boat trip. Departure a little after the belvedere, in a small port.

Arrived at Marsaxlokk , if it is a Sunday, there is  a big market  near the port. You will find everything there, especially souvenirs.

You can take the opportunity to  eat by the sea  in one of the  many fish restaurants.

After your meal, I advise you to go see one of the last places of interest of your circuit:  St Peter’s Pool . You don’t have to go far, it’s located  10 minutes by car from Marsaxlokk  and indicated by signs.

Park your car in one of the  2 free car parks  and continue on foot. You will then arrive at  a large natural swimming pool  where people are having fun jumping into the water.

If jumping into the water is a little too daredevil for your taste,  take a walk down the path  to the right, there are a few  natural hot tubs  by the water’s edge.

If you have time left,  end the day in Marsaskala , along the well-appointed seaside.

Dormez towards Marsaxlokk.

The next day marks the end of your 10-day holiday in Malta, it will unfortunately be time to catch your return flight.

If your  stay in Malta lasts 9 days , either remove the beach day from the Mellieha stage or a day in Gozo.

If you are lucky enough to  spend 11 days on a circuit in Malta , you can  add a day in Gozo.  Take a hike, enjoy the beach or even  opt for a first dive .

Accommodation in Marsaxlokk

• Port View Guesthouse  : Guest house located in Marsaxlokk, a pretty fishing village where a very touristy market takes place on Sundays. Modern and comfortable double room from €70 per night, breakfast included. Most: the location by the sea, a good lunch and the perfect welcome.
• Harbor Lodge    : Located near the fishing port. Quiet and comfortable double room from €85 per night, breakfast included. Most: the quiet location, free parking, free shuttle to the airport.

Other activities to do for 10 days in Malta

If you want to add   other activities to do during your 10-day Malta itinerary , I have prepared a   super complete list with lots of ideas for you to have fun!

The 4 essential activities to do in Malta

It’s your first trip to Malta and you want  to take full view?

In this case,  I particularly recommend 4 absolutely essential activities and excursions!

1) Take a cruise to Comino’s Blue Lagoon

• Catamaran cruise at the Blue Lagoon   +   possibility of transfer from your hotel
• Blue Lagoon Sailing Cruise from Comino   – Transfer Included + Lunch (Wine Included!)
• Private boat cruise in Comino and Gozo for the day  (Top of the top!) – Also available  for half a day (3h30).
• Private Boat Cruise to Comino Blue Lagoon from Valletta   – Full Day
• Private Blue Lagoon Sailing Trip from Valletta    – For a great day at sea on a sailboat with a private skipper!

2) Visit Gozo by Quad or Jeep

• Gozo VIP Guided Quad Bike Tour (top!)  – Discover the whole island of Gozo with the best local guide and have lunch in a great restaurant with a view. Small group + 2 times more places to visit than with other quad tours (which includes secret places!)
• Guided quad tour of Gozo for a day,   with departure from Malta (transport included) + return by boat via Comino and the Blue Lagoon! Clearly one of the best things to do in Malta!
• Quad rental in Gozo: To visit Gozo you can also rent quads! (recommended if you know the island a little, otherwise taking a tour is the best solution).
• Guided Jeep Tour of Gozo    – Transport from your hotel in Malta included. A great way to experience Gozo if you don’t fancy driving!

3) Go diving in Malta or Gozo

• Diving baptism in Malta
• First dive in Gozo   – The destination is renowned for being one of the best spots! And if you already have some diving experience, you can also book   “1 day – 2 dives” (click here)   and   “2 days – 4 dives” (click here)  packages .

4) Jet ski around Comino (Blue Lagoon)

• Jet Ski Excursion – Follow your instructor to go around Comino and the sea caves from Gozo

Here is now the complete list of all the activities to do in Malta:

1) The best activities in Malta (and from Malta)

Boat trips to the Blue Lagoon

• Day trip to Comino Blue Lagoon  +  possibility of transfer from your hotel
• Blue Lagoon Sailboat Cruise from Comino
• Private boat cruise to Comino Blue Lagoon and Gozo for the day  – Also available  for the half day (3h30).
• Blue Lagoon Excursion and Swimming + 3-Hour Gozo Tour
• 3-hour boat trip to Comino + Gozo tour by Jeep
• Boat shuttle to the Blue Lagoon

Gozo Guided Tour from Malta

• Guided quad tour of Gozo for a day,   with departure from Malta (transport included) + return by boat via Comino and the Blue Lagoon! Clearly one of the best things to do in Malta! – Also available for   half a day here!
• Guided Bus Tour of Gozo    – Pick up from your hotel in Malta
• Guided Jeep Tour of Gozo    – Pick up from your hotel in Malta
• Guided tour of Gozo in a private Jeep    – Pick up from your hotel in Malta

Guided tour and excursions in Malta

• Small Group Valletta Guided Walking Tour  /  Private Valletta Guided Tour  /  Valletta WWII Guided Tour
• Guided tour of the 3 Cities with wine tasting
• Visit of the 3 Cities by vintage bus
• Small Group Guided Walking Tour of Mdina  /  Private Guided Walking Tour of Mdina
• “All-inclusive” Night Tour:   This guided night tour includes, in addition to Mdina, a 5D show retracing the history of Malta in Valletta and a visit to the city of Mosta. Transportation from your hotel is also included.
• Guided tour of Game of Thrones,    the island that served as a filming location for the series
• Day trip with visit to Marsaxlokk and the Blue Grotto   – Transport + guide included!
• 1/2 day guided tour of the megalithic temples of Malta,   some of which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Private tour of Malta with  full day guide.

Other activities in Malta

• Traditional Maltese Boat Ride  in Valletta
• Tickets for the hop-on hop-off tourist bus.

Nightlife and partying in Malta

If you want to take advantage of your  stay in Malta to party , I also recommend:

• Go pub crawl  with other revelers – To take part in a pub crawl in Malta,  click here!
• To go dancing the night away in one of the clubs in Paceville , Malta’s party district!
• To opt for a boat party with an open bar!

2) The best activities in Gozo

• Private 3.5 hour boat tour in Gozo and Comino
• Full day private boat tour in Gozo and Comino (top!)
• Reach Comino by shuttle boat    from Mgarr, the port of Gozo
• Join Comino by shuttle boat    from Hondoq
• Shuttle to Comino + visit to the sea caves.
• Jeep Tour of Gozo + Lunch + Comino 3h Boat Trip

Guided tours

• Gozo VIP Guided Quad Bike Tour (top!)  – Discover the whole island of Gozo with the best local guide and have lunch in a great restaurant with a view. 2 times more places to visit than with other quad tours!
• Segway: 2h tour with local guide 
• 2-hour or full-day hike with a guide   to discover the wildest places in Gozo, without the crowds
• Guided quad tour of Gozo for a day  /  Also available for half a day
• Tickets for the Gozo Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus .

Water activities:

2 Weeks Malta Itinerary

For all those who wish  to visit Malta in 2 weeks , you can  take the 10-day program  and  add lots of fun activities.  I have already given you the list above.

During a 14 or 15 day trip to Malta, you can  take your time to see everything  and even  get off the beaten track a bit .

In addition to visits, you can  enjoy the beach  and  do some hiking . The island of  Gozo is ideal for this.

A path allows you to  go all around the island on foot  and not miss anything of the  splendid landscapes . And if you can’t do it all at once, it’s very practical because you can cut it into segments and do lots of short walks of an hour or 2.

A two-week circuit in Malta also allows you to  enjoy water activities  such as  jet-skiing  or  the buoy  that I have already mentioned in my article.  Kayaking trips  are also very famous on the Comino side where the water is translucent.

What can also be nice to discover Malta or Gozo from another angle is to  rent a boat without a license  for the day.

Malta is also recognized as a  mecca for diving  and several schools offer to introduce you to this sport by organizing first  dives . If your stay lasts 2 weeks, you can also opt for training  with several dives  and which generally last 3 days.

Now you know  what to do and see in two weeks in Malta!

You went on a 10 day trip to Malta and followed our itinerary? Do not hesitate to give us your opinion in the comments!

Are you going on a trip to Malta? Read also

Discover all our articles on Malta : all articles on Malta are here!

• What to do in Malta?  The 20 things to do and see absolutely during your stay
• Itinerary: 2-3 days in Malta:   Itinerary to visit Malta in a weekend
• Itinerary: 4-5 Days in Malta   – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions!
• Itinerary: A week in Malta : The ultimate itinerary for your trip, with all our tips!
• Gozo: The 10 things to do on the island
• Valletta: The 10 must-do things
• Malta’s 25 Best Beaches: The Ultimate Guide

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How To Spend 7, 10, or 12 Days in Malta: A Complete Itinerary

Looking for a complete travel itinerary for 7, 10, or 12 days in Malta? Well, you’re in the right place!

Nestled between Sicily and the North African coast, Malta is one of the most underrated countries in all of Europe.

Don’t let its size fool you… Malta packs a punch with a marvelous mixture of historic cities, gorgeous cliffsides, and relaxing beaches.

We rented a car and explored this amazing country for 12 days. Malta really is the perfect destination for a road trip.

This is especially true for those who travel with chronic pain and fatigue like myself. The drives are short, most roads are in great condition, and you can explore the country at your own pace. Perfect if you travel with chronic pain or fatigue, like me.

Plus, Malta can easily be combined with another European destination, as flight prices are very affordable. We combined Malta with a 3 week trip to Greece.

For the past 10 years, we have created tailor-made road trip itineraries in Italy, Greece, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Namibia, Japan, and now Malta.

In this post, we share our in-depth Malta itinerary so you can choose and customize your own adventure . We have helpful tips on places to visit, things to do, and suggestions on where to stay.

So whether you have 7, 10, or 12 days in Malta, our suggestions will help you craft your own perfect itinerary.

Grab a glass of wine, sit back, and let’s plan your Malta road trip!

How Many Days to Spend in Malta?

The duration for any trip depends on your interests, sights you want to see, your budget, and how much time you have off work. As teachers, we get it.

So we are here to answer the big question, how many days in Malta?

Malta is located in the middle of the Mediterranean, which means the best way to get to Malta is by international flight .

To not waste your time and money, you want to spend at least 7 days in Malta.

However, the ideal amount of time for a complete Malta road trip is closer to 10 days.

This allows you to fully explore the attractions, immerse yourself in culture, explore the charming Maltese towns , and enjoy the beautiful beaches.

7 Days in Malta

With 7 days, you will have enough time to visit popular sites like Valletta, Mdina, Marsaxlokk, Comino Island, and the Blue Grotto. Plus, join a walking food tour of Valletta or a day of snorkeling.

We recommend at least 2 days in Valletta. This will give you time to explore Valletta, the neighboring 3 Cities and the Grand Harbor.

Then I would recommend splitting the last 5 days between Gozo and the rest of Malta.

10 Days in Malta

10 days will give you a more relaxed and in-depth exploration of Malta . You will be able to visit more towns and beaches… plus, dine in more amazing Malta restaurants!

I would recommend following our itinerary and just eliminating a town or two that you aren’t as interested in. I know… it will be tough!

12 Days in Malta

We spent 12 days exploring Malta and Gozo. And while this may seem like a lot, it will allow you to take your time, enjoy more activities and go off the beaten path.

You will have more time to visit Gozo, relax on beaches, and visit your “must-do” activities such as diving, snorkeling, fishing, or hiking.

Our itinerary is based on 12 days, but you can customize it as you wish!

Do You Need to Rent a Car in Malta?

Do you absolutely need to rent a car in Malta? No. But should you… YES!

If renting a car works into your budget and itinerary, then I say… do it!

Renting a car in Malta  is the best way to explore the island’s stunning coast, picturesque villages, and historic sites on your own schedule.

Although Malta has great public transportation options, some locations are not accessible by bus.

Renting a car offers flexibility, convenience, and comfort. This is especially true if you travel with chronic pain or reduced mobility  as I do.

Discover Cars  is an excellent site that compares prices between local and international rental companies. They have additional features you can add to your booking, like insurance, GPS, car seats, etc.

They really make renting a car an easy process!

🚗 Need a rental car? Check availability & prices: ➡️ Reserve your rental car here !

Alright, time to dive into our day-to-day Malta itinerary!

Malta Itinerary Map – Day 1-3: Valletta & 3 Cities

This is a quick Google Map of where we recommend spending the first 3 days of your itinerary. You will not need a car for this portion of your trip to Malta.

Day 1-3: Valletta & the 3 Cities

We recommend you begin your Malta itinerary in Valletta . With its proximity to the airport, Valletta is the ideal place to start enjoying Maltese food and culture.

A quick side note, everyone in Malta speaks English … so you can cross that worry off your list.

You won’t have any trouble getting around, checking into your hotel, or booking a tour. Huge relief, right?!

How to Get to Valletta

The easiest way to get to Malta is to fly into the Malta International Airport. It is a short 20-minute taxi ride to the capital of Valletta and should cost you around €17.

We don’t recommend renting a car from the airport , as parking in Valletta is extremely difficult to find, and Malta is easy to explore on foot.

Depending on where your hotel is located, the taxi will drop you off as close as possible.

As the old town of Valletta is traffic-free , taxis do not have direct access to many hotels. Be prepared to walk up some steps to your hotel. Thankfully, the rest of the old town is relatively flat.

After checking into your hotel, unpack, and set out to explore the medieval cobble-stoned streets.

✅ Helpful Tip: Always schedule at least 2 days in your first location before starting any road trip. This way, you can relax after a long flight, pick up supplies and address any pain you are having.

Valletta is an impressive city full of unique architecture not found anywhere else in Europe. As a UNESCO Heritage Site , it is packed with 320 historic monuments, all within 80 hectares!

We recommend scheduling 3 days to explore Valletta and the nearby 3 Cities , so you can truly experience the sights, food, and culture it has to offer.

Since your feet will be your primary mode of transportation for the next few days, make sure you have a good pair of runners to support your neck and back.

👉 If traveling in the summer, I recommend these sandals for great support and comfort.

For the next two days, wander and get lost in this vibrant city. There are so many things to do in Valletta , including visiting the cute shops and cafes lining the many charming streets.

Merchants Street, one of the pedestrian-only walking streets, runs the length of the historic center.

✅ Helpful Tip: Merchant Street is a 4-meter side, mostly flat, and easily walkable. It should be manageable for those with mobility issues.

When you have exhausted your feet and need to fill your belly, there are numerous restaurants to choose from with amazing views of the city.

It can get busy in the evenings, so it may be a good idea to book a table in advance , especially during tourist season.

Things to Do in Valletta

✔️ St. John’s Co-Cathedral: Built-in 1572, it is the jewel of Valletta. Located on Strait Street and is worth a visit on your 12-day trip to Malta.

✔️ Upper Barrakka Gardens: At the end of Strait Street, the gardens offer stunning views of the 3 Cities and Mediterranean. Go at sunset!

✔️ Saluting Battery: The traditional ceremony where gun salutes are fired at 12pm & 4 pm. Located in the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

✔️ Lascaris War Rooms: An underground complex of tunnels and chambers where the defense of the island was conducted in WWII.

✔️ St. George’s Square: Surrounded by beautiful colonial architecture, it is a great place to relax and people-watch.

The 3 Cities: Vittoriosa, Senglea & Cospicua

Across from the Grand Harbour of Valletta lie the 3 Cities – Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua. These fortified ancient towns are perfect time capsules of authentic Maltese culture .

We loved wandering the 3 Cities and think they are part of what makes Malta special .

From the Upper Barrakka Gardens, take an elevator down to the water level (cost of €1).

A short 10 min boat ride and €8 later, you will be dropped off at the dock. No need to book your return, as there is always someone waiting with a small private boat to bring you back.

Now it is time to let your senses guide you.

Whether it be wandering the labyrinth of limestone architecture and bright shutters or admiring the traditional way of life of the local fisherman … take your time and get lost in the beauty.

✅ Helpful Tip: You access the main walking streets, you need to walk uphill. But once you do, most streets are flat and easily walkable. If possible, I recommend walking a couple of streets for a different view of the city. Then, slowly wander down to the waterfront restaurants.

There is no need to move hotels, as Valletta is a short water taxi away . So we recommend staying at this amazing hotel in Valletta for 3-4 nights.

This is also a great way to spend less money when you travel . Some hotels offer a discount for a minimum 3-night stay.

At the end of your 3 days in Valletta and the 3 Cities, and before heading to the island of Gozo, we suggest picking up your rental car.

Our hotel helped arrange a rental car for us and had it dropped off as close to the old town as possible.

Now, it is off to the island of Gozo!

Where to Stay in Valletta

📍 Valletta Lucente: We loved our stay at this quaint hotel located in the historic center. Rooms are quiet and comfortable with a traditional Maltese design, and the homemade breakfast is delicious! ➡️ Book your stay at  Valletta Lucente now!

👉 Read our full Valletta Lucente Hotel review here!

📍 Domus Zamitello : Treat yourself to a stay at this restored 17th-century hotel. They offer classic, elegantly designed rooms close to many sights and restaurants. It is ideal for those with mobility issues. ➡️ Book your stay at  Domus Zamitello now!

Have extra time? St. Julian’s Bay

DRIVE TIME: Valletta – St. Julien’s Bay (17 min total – 7.5 km/4.7 miles)

Although we had to skip St. Julian’s Bay due to time constraints, many choose to visit this picturesque seaside town.

If you have time, we recommend adding it to your 12-day Malta road trip. St. Julien’s can be visited by taxi from Valletta, or after you pick up your rental car.

St. Julian’s has some amazing kid-free hotels if you are traveling as a couple!

👉 Read our full Adult Only Hotels post here!

✔️ St. Julien’s Bay : Known for its beaches, restaurants, luxury boutiques, and nightlife. Grab your towel, catch some rays and enjoy the Mediterranean.

✔️ Spinola Bay : Admire traditional boats while sipping a cappuccino, then visit the historic Spinola Palace, a beautiful Baroque mansion.

Malta Itinerary Map – Day 4-6: Gozo & Comino

Day 4-6: Gozo & Comino

DRIVE TIME: Valletta – Xlendi Bay, Gozo Island (1.5 hrs total – 42.6 km/26.5 miles) Ferry to Gozo: 25 min

How to Get to Gozo

Thankfully, getting over to Gozo is easy and straightforward. The Gozo Ferry departs from the terminal in Malta every 20 minutes or so. You can check ferry prices here .

You have the option to walk on as a passenger or drive on. You can take your rental car onto the Gozo Ferry.

Just make sure to tell the car rental agency that you plan to take the vehicle to Gozo.

And if you decide to rent a car from Gozo, there are many rental agencies at the ferry dock when you arrive.

👉 Read our full Malta Gozo Ferry post here!

The Island of Gozo

As one of 21 islands in the Maltese archipelago , Gozo is packed with interesting places to see. Thankfully, it is smaller in size, so you will have plenty of time to visit all the sights you want!

All the following cities, beaches, and sights are under 30 min drive from Xlendi Bay , which is where we based ourselves. More on that later!

What to Do on Gozo Island:

✔️ Dwejra Bay : A 4€ boat ride takes you to where the Azure Window once stood. It is a fantastic spot to check out the cliffs and caves up close!

👉 I recommend these water shoes because they are lightweight and comfortable.

✔️ Wied il-Mielaħ : This natural limestone rock formation is one of the best “windows” on Gozo, and can be reached by a large handrailed staircase.

✅ Helpful Tip: I have trouble with stairs, so keep in mind, it may not be suitable for children, elderly travelers, or people with mobility issues. You can still witness this natural wonder at street level.

✔️ Wardija Punic Temple il-Wardija: This temple sits on 120m high cliffs on the southwest tip, and is surrounded by Xlendi Harbor and Dwejra Bay. The towering cliffs dramatically drop into the sea, making for a spectacular sight!

✔️ Xwejni Bay Beach: The moonlike landscape of this unique beach was our favorite on Gozo, and another reason why Malta is worth visiting!

The beach is great for swimming and snorkeling, is close to parking and has facilities and restaurants nearby.

✔️ Marsalforn Salt Pans: These 300 salt pans are perched above the sea on a small stretch of shoreline just outside the resort town of Marsalforn.

✔️ Victoria: The fortified capital of Gozo is known for its medieval Citadella. You can visit free of charge or €5 gets you entrance to four museums.

✅ Helpful Tip: If you have mobility issues, parking is available just past the main entrance for €2.

✔️ Sannap Cliffs : A favorite among locals and a must-see on any Malta itinerary. These cliffs tower 120 meters above the sea and are a perfect spot to watch the sunset, as different hues paint the jagged cliffside.

✅ Helpful Tip: For those that travel with chronic pain and fatigue , or have mobility issues, don’t worry, there is parking nearby!

✔️ L-Għarb : Gozo’s oldest village is known for its beautiful architecture and for producing the best cheese on Gozo. We recommend visiting midday. Although it can be hot, we had the entire town all to ourselves!

Comino Island

The most common way to get to Comino Island is to join a large boat tour. Many tours operate from Gozo and the main island of Malta.

If you’re interested in joining a larger tour, there are several options to choose from.

👉This tour combines the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and Sea Caves for the ultimate experience!

If you prefer a private boat for a more intimate experience , then head to Hondoq ir-Rummien on Gozo. This is the best place to hire a private boat to take you to the island of Comino.

It’s affordable, you have more space to stretch out and the ride can be as long/short as you choose. This is a great option for people with chronic pain and fatigue or those who get seasick.

We chose to do a tour of the Santa Maria Caves before being dropped off on the dock of the Blue Lagoon. There is a restaurant, shop, and facilities on Comino.

The Blue Lagoon is a gorgeous spot to spend the day at. The crystal-blue waters are shallow and perfect for swimming. There are deeper areas where you can cliff dive into the sea, too!

Unfortunately, this is no hidden gem, and Comino quickly gets overrun with tourists. Since we can only handle crowds for so long, we pre-arranged a return time with our private boat.

Nevertheless, we recommend adding this amazing spot to your Malta itinerary.

Where to Base Yourself on Gozo

Gozo is incredibly small, so you can honestly base yourself anywhere.

Touring this island is best done with a car. Most roads are paved and have good signage. So, as long as you are comfortable driving on the left side of the road, driving in Malta is easy .

We based ourselves in Xlendi Bay for our 4-day adventure on Gozo. Prices were reasonable and the driving distance between places was short and pain-free.

Xlendi Bay is also one of the best Malta towns to visit on Gozo. The sandy beach and shallow waters of Xlendi Bay make it a perfect destination and base to explore the island of Gozo.

Surrounded by jagged cliffs and a diverse coral reef, it is also a popular site for snorkeling and diving .

This typical Gozitan fishing village has a decent number of hotels, cafes, and amazing waterfront restaurants . Get ready to sample delicious seafood and catch of the day!

Where to Stay in Xlendi Bay

📍 St. Patrick’s Hotel : We loved the amazing sea view and rooftop pool. Although dated, the hotel is clean, comfortable, affordable, and has an elevator. It has beach access, plus parking and breakfast are included. ➡️ Book your stay at  St. Patrick’s Hotel now!

📍 Santa Lucia Boutique Hotel : Don’t need the beach? Consider this beautiful hotel with spacious rooms, and a pool and hot tub with excellent views. It offer free parking and an optional breakfast buffet. ➡️ Book your stay at  Santa Lucia Boutique Hotel now!

Where to Stay in Victoria

If you prefer to be centrally located or near a bus station, then Victoria is a fantastic choice.

📍 Townhouse 17 Boutique B&B : Near the historic center, this property offers modern, clean rooms, with comfortable beds and amazing city views. It has a beautiful terrace, rooftop pool, and free parking. ➡️ Book your stay at  Townhouse 17 Boutique B&B now!

Where to Stay in Marsalforn

Another great option for families is the seaside town of Marsalforn . Directly opposite Xlendi Bay on the north side of the island, Marsalforn

📍 Hotel Calypso : This excellent budget-friendly option has a rooftop pool, sundeck overlooking the bay, cocktail bar, and 2 restaurants. Rooms have a balcony, breakfast is included with free parking nearby. ➡️ Book your stay at Hotel Calypso now!

Malta Itinerary Map – Day 7: Return to Malta

⛔End of 7-Day Malta Itinerary : return to the main island via the Malta Gozo Ferry and make your way to the airport. The entire journey should take around 3 hours.

If this is too rushed for you, then I recommend leaving Gozo one day early.

Malta Itinerary Map – Day 7-12: The Rest of Malta

If you are continuing on your Malta road trip, then make your way to your accommodation. Check in and get ready to explore the island of Malta.

Day 8-12: The Island of Malta

DRIVE TIME: Xlendi Bay – Xemxija (1 hr total – 25.1 km/15.5 miles)

The Island of Malta

Over the next 3 – 5 days, you will explore the rest of magnificent Malta! You can decide how much (or little) you want to see in your remaining time on the island.

We feel the following places are a must-see on any Malta itinerary. All can be experienced on a 10-day trip to Malta.

If you have 12 days in Malta, as we did, get ready for a few extra days of activities and relaxation!

For the last part of our Malta itinerary, we based ourselves in Xemxija or St. Paul’s Bay. More on that later.

All the following cities, beaches, and sights are only a 35 min drive from Xemxija or St. Paul’s Bay.

If you are renting a car in Malta , we strongly recommend choosing 2 cities or sights to visit per day.

This allows you to explore at a relaxed pace, discover what makes each town special and allow Malta to capture your heart!

What to Do on the Island of Malta

This ancient walled city sits atop a hill with stunning views of the countryside. Mdina is a UNESCO Heritage Site and a fascinating example of Maltese history and culture.

With a mix of medieval and Baroque architecture , the little alleyways lead you from one impressive sight to the next.

Wandering the quiet streets is one of the best things to do in Mdina.

There are excellent restaurants scattered throughout the city. We really enjoyed the Mdina Restaurant. The food was tasty , and you can see the entire island from the amazing terrace!

The neighboring town of Rabat is known for its character and beauty. Home to several medieval monasteries and churches , this town has its own charm waiting to be discovered.

You will need one full day to explore Mdina and Rabat. They are a definite must-see hit and should be included on every Malta itinerary.

✅ Helpful Tip: Use the parking lot just outside the gates of Mdnina, as both Mdina and Rabat are pedestrian-only. Both towns are flat and easy to navigate, especially for travelers with mobility issues.

If you’re craving some beach time, head to Golden Bay, one of the few sandy beaches on Malta.

It is perfect for swimming, snorkeling and relaxation , and is located on the northwest side of Malta.

For €20 you can rent an umbrella and a couple of loungers. Spend your day relaxing by the surf and admiring the amazing cliff sides, nearby. There are facilities and restaurants close by. 

Popeye’s Village

Built as a film set for the feature film, Popeye , this unique attraction has become very popular with tourists.

For 20€, you can marvel at the one-of-a-kind village , indulge in free popcorn, swim and relax on the sun loungers, or enjoy the inflatable obstacle course.

 ➡️ Buy your tickets to Popeye’s Village here!

Dingli Cliffs

At a staggering 253 meters, the Dingle Cliffs are the highest point in all of Malta. The cliffs stretch all the way past Dingli village to the Blue Grotto.

Take a drive along the coastline or an evening stroll to watch the sunset.

Blue Grotto

You can also admire the majestic Dingli Cliffs from the sea!

Join a boat tour that will take you along the cliff’s edge to the Blue Grotto. This stunning natural grotto is perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Just don’t miss out on these naturally gorgeous locations.

The picturesque village of Marsaxlokk is the largest fishing harbor in all of Malta. Relax, watch life unfold, and admire the colorful fishing boats in the harbor.

One of the reasons to visit this delightful town in Malta is to experience the local Sunday Fishing Market.

We recommend arriving early in the morning before the busload of tourists.

Next, make your way to Marsaskala, a popular fishing town among locals and tourists. But know that it can get very busy in the summer.

Take a walk on the promenade and enjoy the gardens or check out the spectacular cliffs that surround this small fishing village.

✅ Helpful Tip: Walking around all day is exhausting, so why not add opportunities to sit and relax? Don’t feel you have to see everything! Grab a cappuccino or gelato, find a bench, and watch the locals mingle!

St. Peter’s Pool

Just outside Marsaskala is the natural swimming spot of St. Peter’s Pool . With crystal clear, azure water , it is a stunning spot for swimming and snorkeling.

There are flat rocks for sunbathing but bring sunscreen and a hat… it gets hot!

This is a definite highlight and one of the main reasons to visit Malta! We recommend making this one of your final destinations before wrapping up your Malta itinerary.

✅ Helpful Tip: There is parking on top of the cliff, but the roads are not great. It can be a challenging visit for people with mobility issues but is still worth a look!

Where to Base Yourself in Malta

We based ourselves in Xemxija Bay for the remainder of 12 day Malta itinerary.

This was mainly due to budget and keep our costs down , as we were headed to the Greek island of Sifnos afterward.

Our apartment hotel included a kitchen, pool, and balcony overlooking the bay, with shops and restaurants close by.

Many people choose to base themselves out of the historic town of Mdina, but it can get costly.

We found you could drive the entire length of the island in under 45 min. And that’s the beauty of marvelous Malta!

Choose wherever you’d like to stay, as it should be easy enough to get anywhere with your rental car.

Where to Stay in Xemxija Bay

📍 Porto Azzurro Aparthotel : We enjoyed our stay here. It was simple but clean, quiet, comfortable, and affordable. It had a kitchen, pool, huge balcony overlooking the bay, and included parking. ➡️ Book your stay at  Porto Azzurro Aparthotel now!

📍 Casa Ricca : This family-run, mobility-friendly hotel is close to shops, restaurants, and overlooks the bay. Rooms are spacious, and beautifully decorated with Maltese charm, and include a homemade breakfast. ➡️ Book your stay at  Casa Ricc a now!

Where to Stay in Mdina & Rabat

If you crave a more traditional feel in an ancient walled city, then we strongly recommend staying in Mdina or Rabat . Although more expensive, the stay offers a one-of-a-kind experience.

📍 Point de Vue Guesthouse : We almost booked this hotel, just 100m outside the fortified walls. Rooms features Maltese charm and overlook the beautiful countryside. Parking and breakfast are included. ➡️ Book your stay at  Point de Vue Guesthouse now!

📍 MYN in Rabat : A blend of Maltese charm with a modern touch, this hotel features ground-floor suites for guests with limited mobility, and a rooftop terrace. It is walkable to sights, and parking is included. ➡️ Book your stay at MYN in Rabat now!

Visa Requirements for Malta

Malta is part of the European Union. So, if you are from the EU or UK, you will not require a visa for entry.

If you are a non-EU visitor , you must present the following to the Maltese customs upon arrival:

✔️ PASSPORT: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date.

✔️ VISA: Malta is part of the Schengen Agreement, so if you are from Canada or the United States, you may enter Malta and stay for up to 90 days.

This is true for both tourist and business purposes. Check here for more information on visa requirements.

✔️ HEALTH INSURANCE: You must present valid health insurance to the customs officers. Insurance must include the coverage of medical emergencies for a minimum of €30,000.

How to Get to Malta

The easiest way to get to Malta is to fly into Valletta. Many major European cities have flights to Malta. It would just be a matter of preference, price, and availability.

To find the best deals on international and domestic flights, we recommend using WayAway .

They make it easy to search a variety of dates, and locations, so you can find the best and cheapest flight options available .

It searches multiple flight airlines to find the best deals out there. It is not an online travel agency, there are no service fees , and the website is incredibly simple to use.

Once you decide on a flight, WayAway directs you to the actual provider’s website , so you can view all the info, read the necessary fine print, and make an informed decision on your travel plans.

➡️ Find the Best Flights with WayAway ✔️compares airlines ✔️offers the best rates ✔️plus 10% cashback Book Now with WayAway

How to Get Around Malta

The small size of the islands of Malta makes it easy to get around and explore.

Public buses run on the islands of Malta and Gozo, with many serving the major tourist destinations. Buses are a relatively cheap and efficient option too. Check the bus schedule here.

🚗Rental Car

However, we feel that Malta is the perfect destination for a road trip!

Renting a car provides you the opportunity to explore the many towns, view the beautiful countryside and discover the beaches.

Plus, you can drive the entire country of Malta at your own pace. Local transportation just can’t do that.

Discover Cars is an excellent site that compares prices between local and international Malta rent-a-car companies. They have additional features you can add to your booking, like insurance, GPS, car seats, etc.

Plus, you can choose the type of insurance you want ahead of time and avoid additional stress at the counter.

We have sampled a couple of different rental car agencies over the years but usually find that Discover Cars offers the best selection for price, comfort, and customer service.

🚗 Find the Best Deals with Discover Cars ✔️compare prices ✔️easy booking process ✔️offers comprehensive insurance ✔️excellent 24/7 customer service ➡️ Reserve your rental with Discover Cars here!

Lastly, we strongly recommend buying a GPS before you go! It’s important to download the map of Malta into the GPS before arriving. That way, all maps are ready to go!

👉 Read our full How to Rent a Car in Malta post here!

⛔ FYI: Maltese drive on the left-hand side of the road, just like in Britain! Gavin decided to rent a manual car with a standard transmission.

Of course, it took some getting used to, since the stick shift is on the opposite side! But it is a great way to save money!

✅ Helpful Tip: Renting a car changed the way we travel. We see what we want and travel at our own pace in a comfortable car. I can manage my pain more effectively and experience more since I can only walk limited distances. Consider this when planning your trip .

Booking a Tour in Malta

If you are not a fan of planning all your own activities or want to spend less time in the car, then consider booking a tour for part of your trip.

👉 Benefits of Joining a Tour: ✔️Get an insider’s look into a destination ✔️You won’t have to worry about transportation ✔️Removes the stress of planning every activity ✔️Tours are safe and you can meet other travelers ✔️Experience something you can’t do on your own ✔️Tour guide shares history & facts for each place you visit

For those that travel with chronic pain and fatigue, I understand the hesitation of joining a larger tour. Depending on your pain level that day, it can be difficult to keep up with the group or participate in all activities.

That is why we choose to hire a private guide when we want to explore certain sights. There is also more flexibility with a private guide as you can set your own schedule.

We recommend using GetYourGuide or Viator when booking local tours. Both have a wide selection of tours throughout Malta and Gozo, including city tours, water activities, and more!

Popular Malta & Gozo Tours: 👉 Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours 👉 The Malta Experience Private Tour 👉 Comino, Blue Lagoon, and Caves boat Cruise 👉 Malta’s 3 Cities Tour & Wine Tasting 👉 Grand Harbour Cruise by Night

FAQs: Spend 7, 10 or 12 Days in Malta

How many days are needed in malta.

To make the most of your visit to Malta, we recommend spending a minimum of 7 to 10 days. This timeframe allows you to experience the rich history, stunning natural landscapes, gorgeous beaches, and vibrant culture that Malta has to offer.

Are 4 days in Malta enough?

4 days in Malta will allow you to see selective sights and give you a taste of Maltese culture. Depending on how fast you travel, and what sights you want to see, your trip may feel rushed. With that in mind, we recommend focusing on key highlights such as Valletta, Mdina, and a visit to the Blue Grotto or Gozo.

Is 7 days enough in Malta?

Yes, 7 days is a good amount of time to explore Malta. You will be able to explore the highlights of Valletta, Mdina, the Blue Grotto, and various picturesque coastal towns. You can also dedicate time to visit the neighboring island of Gozo and enjoy leisurely days on the beautiful beaches.

Is Malta cheap or expensive?

Malta is considered moderately priced and is generally more affordable than popular Western European destinations. Prices for accommodation, dining, and transportation can vary depending on the location and the level of luxury you choose. With proper planning, a trip to Malta does not need to break the bank.

What is the best month to visit Malta?

The best months to visit Malta are typically from April to June and September to October. During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation prices compared to the peak summer months.

Final Thoughts: Spend 7, 10 or 12 Days in Malta

The tiny Mediterranean island of Malta has so much to offer visitors. From interesting historic cities and churches to gorgeous cliffsides and beaches, you will have no problem filling your time!

Hopefully, our we helped provide you with all the necessary information to create your own detailed 7, 10 or 12-day Malta itinerary.

Let us know if you have any questions… otherwise, enjoy your journey!

Read More on Malta

The 11 Best Adult Only Hotels in Malta in 2024 How to Get to Malta? Airplane, Boat & Ferry Options in 2024 How to Rent a Car in Malta in 2024 15 Malta Driving Tips: Everything You Need to Know 13 BEST Malta Towns & Cities To Explore 2024 (with Map!) The 20 BEST (& Free) Things to Do in Valletta

Robyn & Gavin are Slow Travel Experts and the authors of Two Empty Passports. They create detailed travel itineraries that focus on slow-minded travel, cultural experiences, and less-visited destinations. As expert travel planners, they know how to adjust your travel style to get the most out of any destination. Robyn lives & travels with several chronic illnesses, including fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, IST, and POTS. Together, they are determined to help other chronic warriors achieve their dreams of travel. Join their journey!

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1. The Original Valletta Walking Tour

2. Gozo and Comino Islands: Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon & caves

3. Discover GOZO, Comino, the BLUE LAGOON & Caves

4. Comino Island: including Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon & sea caves

5. Gozo, Comino and Blue lagoon Cruise

6. Gozo Full-Day Jeep Tour with Private Boat to Gozo & return

7. Valletta & Three Cities Harbour Cruise

8. The Valletta Street Food and Culture Walking Tour

9. Mdina and Highlights of Malta Full Day Guided Tour Incl. Lunch and Transfers

10. Blue Lagoon, Beaches and Bays Catamaran Sailing Tour

11. Valletta Food Tour

12. From Malta: Gozo Full-Day Quad Bike Tour incl. Lunch & Boat

13. Private Customizable Full-Day Tour in Malta

14. Private Boat, Blue lagoon, Crystal lagoon Comino, Gozo Malta Ultimate Highlights

15. Valletta Harbour Cruise

16. Mdina and Rabat - City Walking Tour

17. Half Day Private Tour around the Island in Malta

18. Mdina and Rabat Insider's Tour

19. Valletta City Walking Tour

20. Gozo Tuk Tuk Chauffered Tour w/crossing & return by Yippee Island Hopper boat

21. FULL Day Eco Twizy 2 seater self drive Malta tour

22. Gozo Full-Day Quad Tour with Private Boat to Gozo & return

23. 4 Hours Paceville Pub Crawl

24. Malta National Aquarium Entrance Ticket

25. Comino, the BLUE LAGOON & Caves CRUISE

26. Valletta Walking Tour, Knights, Slaves and Mistresses

27. Private Boat trip, Charter, Gozo, Comino, Malta, Blue lagoon T1

28. Maltese Wine & Chocolate Pairing

29. Valletta Food Tour - Eat like a local

30. Kayak Gozo and Comino Awesome Afternoon Adventure

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EXPLORE THE HEART OF THE MEDITERRANEAN

The magic of malta, beautiful gozo, sicily in a day, booking terms & conditions.

The Perfect 7-Day Malta Itinerary

Last Updated on January 15, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Though the island nation is incredibly small in size, planning out the perfect Malta itinerary can be a bit of a difficult task when considering all of the amazing things to do in this beautiful Mediterranean country.

While Malta may seem small (it is!), that doesn’t mean that it lacks amazing things to do and see and travellers could easily fill over two weeks on the Maltese archipelago and not get bored. If you don’t have an endless amount of time to devote to your trip, however, you can do and see quite a bit in just one week.

If you’re wondering where to go in Malta in one week, make sure to follow this itinerary in order to have the best trip to Malta possible!

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Malta?

It’s true, Malta is small, but don’t let this fool you into thinking that there isn’t much to see or do. The truth of it is actually quite the contrary and it is why many potential visitors wonder how many days to spend in Malta.

While you can cover a lot of ground in a short stretch of time, I wouldn’t recommend spending less than one week if you genuinely want to get the most out of your Malta trip.

Spending a full 7 days in Malta will allow you to explore its lovely cities and visit the myriad historical and UNESCO World Heritage Sites while also giving you enough time to relax in the Mediterranean sunshine and experience the stunning coastline with its crystal clear waters.

Getting To & Around Malta

As a Mediterranean island nation, the most likely (and straightforward) way to get to Malta is by plane. The Malta airport is located about 20 minutes from the capital of Malta, Valletta, and they serve a number of airlines across countless destinations both in Europe and internationally. It is possible to book a private airport transfer here.

You can also reach Malta by ferry from nearby Sicily with regular routes from cities like Catania or Palermo .

Once in the country, it’s easy enough to get around Malta using the extensive bus and ferry system, however, it may be tricky to organise if you happen to be staying on Gozo or outside of Sliema or Valletta on the main island of Malta where there are fewer connections. There are lots of areas to stay in Malta where it may be more practical to have your own vehicle.

If you want a lot of flexibility and ease of getting around, then consider renting a car. There are lots of car hire options in Malta and it’s a great way to see the country! You can browse car hire options here.

For those who do not want to bother with getting around independently, you can easily get to many places in Malta via organised day tours such as to Gozo. This, however, will end up being the most expensive option out there.

7 Days in Malta Itinerary

Day 1 – sliema.

Malta’s largest city of Sliema is the perfect place to base yourself on the island. A stone’s throw away from the historical capital of Malta, Valletta, Sliema is also incredibly well connected in terms of public transport with most buses passing through the city.

But while it seems like more and more people are basing themselves here, fewer people are really taking the time to get to know it. That is why I recommend spending the first day of your seven-day Malta itinerary in Sliema.

There are a number of things to do in Sliema and it’s a great place to get your bearings and really start enjoying your Malta holiday. Begin by having breakfast and a coffee at one of the trendy cafes that the city boasts. Take a couple of hours to have a leisurely stroll along Sliema’s seafront promenade, maybe taking the time to swim in the harbour.

As the sun begins to set, take advantage of a happy hour deal and enjoy a drink at a seaside cafe. End your day with a great local meal at Ta’Kris , one of the best restaurants in Sliema.

Where to Stay in Sliema

Mr Todd Hotel – This small hotel is located in the heart of Sliema and only a stone’s throw from the swimming areas that line the promenade. They have a number of clean and comfortable rooms on offer, 24-hour check-in, and a free breakfast included in the room rate.

Quisisana Apartments – If you’re looking for a different sort of accommodation, then these centrally located apartments can be a great choice. Centrally located in Sliema, they have a range of flats on offer that are all fully furnished with everything you may need.

Two Pillows Hostel — If you’re travelling solo or on a budget, then you can’t go wrong with this boutique hostel. The first hostel in Malta, this place offers clean and comfortable rooms (both dorm and private), a great location in Sliema, and a friendly and helpful staff.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Sliema!

Day 2 – Valletta and the Three Cities

On the second day of your one week in Malta trip, it’s time to explore the lovely Maltese capital city of Valletta . A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this diminutive city is very much on the up and up as tourism goes and is one of the places to visit in Malta that you cannot miss.

I’d recommend trying to get an early ferry (they leave every thirty minutes from the Sliema terminal) to beat the crowds and the heat that can accumulate later in the day.

Walk along the city walls to the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens and enjoy the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities and take the time to visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral and marvel at its impressive facades and collection of paintings by Caravaggio.

Pop in for lunch at Submarine, where you can get a fresh, made-to-order sandwich for a good price before catching the ferry to the Three Cities.

Spend your afternoon exploring the three small adjacent cities of Cospicua (Bormla), Vittoriosa (Birgu), and Senglea (L’Isla). Honestly, the best thing to do in all of the Three Cities is to get lost in their beautiful winding alleyways and enjoy the lovely traditional Maltese architecture.

Catch the ferry back to Valletta in the evening and enjoy a nice cocktail at Cafe Society before enjoying a delicious meal on the rooftop terrace at Rampila .

Valletta is very small and therefore doesn’t have a lot on offer when it comes to accommodation. A far better solution would be to base yourself in Sliema and visit Valletta from there, it’s easily accessible within a few minutes by ferry or bus.

Where to Stay in Valletta

Domus Zamittello Hotel – Located in the middle of lovely Valletta, this hotel is the perfect base for exploring this compact city. Situated within easy reach of the top sites and the ferries, there are several great rooms and breakfast available daily.

The Saint John – This hotel is excellent for those after a luxury stay in Valletta. Boasting countless opulent rooms to choose from, it’s perfectly located for exploring the town and the island and has a number of plush amenities for guests to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Valletta!

Day 3 – Marsaxlokk and Southern Malta

On the third day of your seven days in Malta, it’s time to venture further out on the island and explore the fishing village of Marsaxlokk (pronounced Mar-SASH-lock) and the highlights of Southern Malta.

Start your day the way the Maltese do — with a swim in the harbour! After you’ve had a shower and a pastizzi for breakfast, catch the bus and head to Marsaxlokk! While it may not look far on the map, the bus can take close to an hour if you factor in traffic.

This small fishing village has a great street market and a famous fish market that runs on Sundays (try to get there early if you’re visiting on that day!) that can be fun to browse, but it also has some of the best seafood on the island.

Next, head to the nearby St. Peter’s Pool. It is a bit of a hike to reach it, but the views are lovely and it can be a good way to work off all of that food! If it’s too hot you’re not up for a hike, many taxis will take you there for about €10-15.

This is an awesome place for cliff jumping if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, but keep in mind that it can get quite busy at weekends so you might not find the perfect spot to bask in the sun if you don’t get there early.

This is also a great day to book a tour of the UNESCO-listed Ħal-Saflieni Hypogeum, as it’s en route to this area. Just keep in mind that they only allow a finite number of people in per day so it’s necessary to book months in advance .

Day 4 – Gozo

After spending three days on Malta, it’s time for a change of scene. This is why the fourth day sees you heading to the second-largest island in the Maltese archipelago — Gozo!

While Gozo is often considered a day trip there are quite a few things to do on the island and it offers a refreshing change of pace from the busy island of Malta.

To get to Gozo, hop on the bus to Cirkewwa and catch the ferry to the island. You can also drive – it is a car ferry.

They leave roughly every 45 minutes and the journey only takes about half an hour. Gozo is quite small, so it doesn’t matter too much where you might want to stay, but I would suggest basing yourself in its capital of Victoria.

Located in the centre of the island, it has the best bus connections to everywhere else you might want to go.

Spend your first day in Gozo exploring Victoria (Rabat) and its wonderful walled Citadella. After you’ve admired the views and maybe visited a couple of beautiful churches, it’s time to get to know a little bit more about Gozo’s up-and-coming wine scene.

There are a couple of vineyards to choose from, but I would especially recommend going for a tour and tasting at Tal Massar Winery. For such a small vineyard, the wines they produce are truly exquisite.

End your day back in Victoria with a wonderful dinner at the wonderful Maldonado Bistro , where their delicious meals and great atmosphere are impossible to disappoint.

Where to Stay in Gozo

The Duke Boutique Hotel – Located in Victoria, the biggest city on Gozo, this boutique hotel is an excellent place to base yourself on the island. They have a range of rooms available (all with air conditioning) and a free breakfast is included in the nightly rate.

Private Rental – Gozo has a range of fantastic private rentals such as this historic farmhouse with a pool and this beautiful sea view apartment .

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Gozo!

Day 5 – Gozo

On your second day on Gozo, it’s time to get out on the water! There are many options available to do this and it just depends on your own personal preferences! If you just want to spend a lazy day at the beach, I would recommend spending a few hours on the beautiful golden sands at Ramla Bay.

If you want to see as much of the archipelago as possible during your Malta itinerary, however, it is well worth going on a boat tour . We spent a wonderful day sailing between all three islands, stopping at countless swimming and snorkelling spots along the way.

No trip is complete without spending time on the islands of Gozo and Comino and this is one of the best things to do in Malta, so of course it is included in this itinerary.

If a full-day sailing trip isn’t quite your cup of tea, Gozo is also quite well-served for quick boat rides to the Blue Lagoon on the island of Comino. If you intend to go here, however, it is worth noting that it gets very busy later in the day so it’s best to get there early.

Alternatively, you can spend this day exploring more of what the island of Gozo has to offer. Head to Xwenji Salt Pans to see how natural Gozitan sea salt is made or enjoy some of the beautiful beaches on the island while basking on the golden sands of Ramla or the quiet beach at Xlendi.

You could also take in some of the oldest Neolithic structures standing today (they’re older than the Pyramids of Giza!) at the Ġgantija Temple.

Day 6 – Mdina and Rabat

On day six of this itinerary for 7 days, it’s time to head back to the main island of Malta and explore the beautiful medieval walled city of Mdina and its adjacent town of Rabat!

Catch the ferry back from Gozo and spend your afternoon discovering the wonderful city of Rabat. The town is small and walkable, but the back alleys and architecture are lovely. It is also well worth taking the time to explore the catacombs of St. Paul’s Cathedral — they are just as bizarre and eerie as they sound!

Spend your evening in gorgeous Mdina, which actually served as a filming location for the first season of HBO’s Game of Thrones .

Pop in for a glass of wine and a sharing platter from Fontanella Wine Bar while watching the sunset from their roof terrace. After the sun has set, take some time to wander around Mdina. After the day-trippers leave, the city retains a peaceful elegance and it will be clear why it is nicknamed “The Silent City.”

Where to Stay in Rabat/Mdina

Adelphi Boutique Hotel – Located in the centre of Rabat and only a five-minute walk from the walled city of Mdina, this small hotel is a great place to stay. They have a few clean and comfortable rooms available and a free breakfast included.

Point de Vue – If you want to stay in the charming walled city of Mdina, you can go wrong with this hotel. Ideal for those with a higher budget looking for a bit of luxury, this hotel has a number of clean, spacious, and air-conditioned rooms available, a full hotel bar, and an excellent free breakfast each morning.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Rabat!

Day 7 – Northern Malta

Spend the final day leisurely exploring the north of the island. While this is where the majority of Malta’s resorts lie, it is also where the most beautiful sandy beaches are. So why not spend your last day on Malta lazily soaking up the rays on Golden Bay beach?

If you want to do something a bit more active to let your seven days in Malta go out with a bang, then go for a long walk along the stunning Dingli cliffs! And if you’re dying to get back out on the water still, it can be well worth taking a boat trip to explore the beautiful Blue Grotto and stare in awe at Malta’s amazing geology.

End your day back in Mdina with a casual dinner at one of the many great restaurants and maybe a gelato from the delicious Fior Di Latte.

Malta is an incredible destination with a number of things to do. While seven days is a great amount of time to spend on this wonderful archipelago, one could easily spend more and not get bored. Take your time to get to know this island nation and I assure you that you will not be disappointed.

Are you planning to visit Malta? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

A Traveller’s Guide to Malta Food & Wine

A Guide To Mdina & Rabat, Malta

A Guide to Marsaxlokk and St Peter’s Pool, Malta

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hi Maggie, Thank you for giving out such a detailed description of your experience. I am planning a 7 day trip to Malta from the Netherlands . I had a couple of questions and would appreciate it if you could answer and help me out. 1. Do you suggest starting the trip from Valletta or ending it there ? 2. Would you suggest staying at just Valletta and cover the entire island by renting a car or would you suggest we can spend 3 night In Valletta and 2 In Gozo ?

Hi Gayathri, the itinerary written above is a great outline on how I would suggest spending 7 days in Malta 🙂

Thank you so much for your informative article. We are visiting Malta this week and will be using your suggestions. Luckily, we have a hotel booked in Sliema. Also, we now know that we need to take some warm clothes with us! Maggie

Happy you found the article helpful! Hope you have a great trip 🙂

Hi Maggie Many thanks for your tips and experience. I’ ve read from other blogs, there are a lot of transportation issues with buses, and despite short distances, you can waist a hell of a lot of time for only a few km. Is it the case at the end of March? I’m currently planning a 11 days in Malta, from 28th of March, 2021. Many thanks for your advise. Rgds. Mike

Hi Mike, thanks for your comment! It’s true that in the busier months, buses can get full in Malta quite quickly and the drivers won’t stop to pick up other passengers. I’m not sure if this will be as big of a problem in March (my gut says no), but it is definitely something to be aware of. Regardless, we’ve really had only pleasant experiences with the Maltese bus system.

Hi Maggie Thanks for interesting tips – very useful. We plan a holiday in Malta from Australia. What time of year would you recommend ?

Hi Chris, thanks for your comment! Personally, I think that mid-late September is the best time to visit Malta — the majority of the tourist crowds have dissipated, the weather is perfect and the water is at its warmest of the year. However, there really isn’t a bad time to visit Malta 🙂 Hope you have a great trip!

Hi Maggie, Thank you for your article. I’m thinking about 1 week in Malta in the second half of February. We want to see as much as possible. Do you think this term is suitable because of the weather? Thank you.

Hi Divan, I think 1 week in Malta in February sounds like a great idea! The weather will be warmer than anywhere else in Europe, however, the water will still probably be too cold for swimming, so be aware of that! Hope you have a great time 🙂

Dear Maggie, I really liked this page and your description. Thank you fo rmaking such a nice page. I live in Zurich. Because of some last min changes, I am now planning to visit Malta from 24th dec to 2nd Jan. I have few questions : a. Do you recommend to stay at different places? I thought to have the hotel at one place, and then, then go around. b. Is it worth staying 1 night at Gozo. ? c. Is Malta closed during christmas time , 24th, 25th , 26th dec? d. Any new year party venue suggestions?

Best Regards, Abhishek

Hi Abhishek, to answer your questions: a. I recommend finding 1 or 2 places to stay throughout your time there. Malta is small so it’s easy enough to get around from just one base. b. I think that Gozo is worth a night, however, you can see a lot of it if you only want to visit for a day trip, as well. c,d. I’ve never been to Malta over Christmas and NYE so I can’t speak on these issues, unfortunately. Hope you have a great trip!

I’m planning to stay 10-14 days to get a good look at the Knights Templar architecture, the other medieval historically significant forts. A sail around the island and to Gozo seems like a very nice way to get a sailors view as in ancient days. I’ve been reading about the history class of Malta and now reading about a travelers experience I’m eager to go. Late March because I think it will be very nice. Thank you for the vivid descriptions.

Hope you have a great trip, Maribeth!

Thanks Maggie for this very informative article. We have planned a seven day trip to Malta and would be following most of your itinerary. How are charges for public transport? Or renting a car would be a better option? We are also planning to skip three cities near Valletta and have more time at north Malta. How does this sound?

Hey Vivek, glad you found the itinerary useful! Public transport in Malta is frequent and affordable and you can use it to get most anywhere you need to go on both Malta and Gozo. We relied solely on the bus network while there and never felt as if we needed to hire a car. As for the Three Cities, they are beautiful and worth a visit, however, if you’re more interested in spending time by the beaches in the north of Malta, go ahead and do that! Hope you have a great trip!

Do you suggest moving around cities each day or staying in one city and doing day-trip using public transport?

Hey Angus, depending on how long you are planning on staying in Malta, I would generally recommend limiting your stay to one or two towns on the island and a couple of nights on Gozo. Malta is small and it’s easy to get around. The easiest place to base yourself on Malta would be in Sliema, which is close to all the transport links. You can get to most places on the main island within an hour on public transport. Hope this answers your question!

Thank you so much for this Maggie; we’re off to Malta for a week at the end of June so I’ll be following this itinerary closely!

So glad I could help! Hope you have a great trip 🙂 We absolutely loved Malta and can’t wait to go back!

Hello Maggies, I wish you see this question before end of the day, if I am going to follow the exact above travel itinray , how many hotels do I have to book ? can I book the whole 7 days in Sliema and move around between these cities, or do I have to book in Gozo starting from day 4 till end of the trip, please help as I can’t visualise it properly

Generally, I would recommend to book 3 different hotels for this trip. 1 in the Sliema/Valletta area, 1 on Gozo and 1 in the Mdina/Rabat area

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Malta Tours & Holidays

Floating smack-bang and isolated in the middle of the shimmering Mediterranean Sea, minuscule Malta trots along to a charmingly laid back pace.

A consortium of 3 bite-sized islands containing countless blue water lagoons backed by stunning surrounds, the country presents a beguiling mish-mash of Arabic and European languages, architecture, cuisine and traditions - the legacy of having been alternately raided, invaded, or occupied by virtually every Western power to have attained conquering capacities over the past 2,000 years. Little wonder then that the locals are so versed in sharing their island’s spoils with the latest foreign hordes to reach their shores.

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Highlights of Malta & Gozo

Malta at a glance

Capital city.

Valletta (population 7,000)

Maltese, English

(GMT+01:00) Amsterdam, Berlin, Bern, Rome, Stockholm, Vienna

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type G (Irish/British 3-pin)

Learn more about Malta

Best time to visit malta.

Malta’s summer season - stretching from April right through to October - is the best time to visit, with daytime temperatures generally sitting in the high 20s that are tempered by sea breezes along the coast.

Over July and August, the temperatures can climb above 30 degrees C - perfect for some, unpleasant for others.

From November to March, temperatures range around 16 degrees C and it can be quite rainy in December and January.

Geography and environment

Malta’s largest island (which goes by the same name) consists of low-lying, hilly and mostly arid terrain covered by terraced fields and bounded by a rugged coastline of coves, harbours and beaches.

Gozo is noticeably greener and more densely vegetated, with craggy cliffs and flat-topped hills.

Top 5 movies shot in Malta

1. gladiator.

Fans of Ridley Scott’s historical Roman epic, charting the rise, fall, rise and death of wronged General Maximus Decimus Meridius (played by Russell Crowe) will be interested to hear that the scenes of Ancient Rome and the Colosseum were actually shot in neither. Instead, a million dollar replica of the city and its illustrious fighting stadium were constructed and filmed in Malta’s Fort Ricasoli. The film, which dominated the 73rd Academy Awards, included some brilliant scenes of Rusty doing somersaults while battling tigers.

Starring Brad Pitt and Australia’s own Eric Bana, Wolfgang Peterson’s loose adaptation of Homer’s Iliad was shot almost exclusively in Malta’s Mellieha, Fort Ricasoli and on Malta’s sister island Comino. An epic tale of wanton murder and betrayal, fuelled by an illicit royal affair, the film was purportedly produced on a budget of approximately $175 million – making it one of the most expensive ever made. In a damning demonstration that people learn nothing from history, the Turkish town of Canakkale accepted Pitt's gifting of the giant Trojan Horse maquette used in the film.

3. World War Z

When a zombie outbreak threatens the planet’s very existence, United Nations worker Gerry Lane (played by Malta-crazy Brad Pitt) decides to step in. Citing inspiration from All the President’s Men and The Bourne Identity, this 'politically-penetrating apocalyptic horror film' featured scenes shot in Malta’s Valletta, Cospicua, Vittoriosa and Senglea.

4. Orca - The Killer Whale

A captivating piece of 70s filmmaking wizardry, Orca: The Killer Whale tells the tale of a great white shark hunt gone horribly wrong. Captain Nolan, a salty Irish seadog looking to return to the country of his birth, accepts one last job to catch a great white shark for a local aquarium. But just as he is about to catch the shark, which is about to kill a canoeing scientist named Ken, a killer whale appears out of nowhere and kills the shark. Infuriated, Nolan harpoons the whale, but hits the wrong one – the whale's pregnant whale girlfriend! Understandably irate, the canny Orca bachelor now sets out laying waste to the entire fishing village; sinking boats, exploding the community’s fuel reserves, and chomping Nolan’s friend’s leg off when he attacks their seaside dwelling.The final, nail-biting scene, in which the Killer Orca lures Nolan out to the remote polar region of Labrador and sinks his boat by knocking an iceberg into it, was fabricated and filmed off the coast of Malta.

5. Swept Away

Popularly lauded as one of the worst movies ever made, Guy Ritchie’s Swept Away – starring his then-wife Madonna – marked the director’s filmmaking nadir. A right box-office disaster, the film scooped the 2002 Raspberry Awards and was the only movie ever to have won both Worst Picture and Worst remake or Sequel. What the film does have going for it is the setting, with Blue Lagoon, Vittoriosa and Mdina all featuring prominently as the stunning backdrop to the mismatched couple’s shipwrecked shenanigans.

Further reading

Malta travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Is tipping customary in Malta?

A service charge isn't generally included in restaurant bills. If the food and service has been good, adding a few Euros to the bill is the norm. Likewise for taxis (which won’t generally run their meter).

What is the internet access like in Malta?

Internet access is good in Malta and internet cafes are easily found in most cities and major towns. Some hotels will also have wireless.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Malta?

Mobile phone coverage is generally very good in Malta. Ensure global roaming is activated before you arrive if you plan to use your mobile phone.

What are the toilets like in Malta?

Western-style, flushable toilets are the standard in Malta. Expect to pay a small fee when using public toilets in some parts of the country.

What will it cost for a...?

Soft drink = 1.50 Euro Sandwich = 2 Euro Pizza = 6.50 Euro Meal at a mid-range restaurant = 37 Euro

Can I drink the water in Malta?

The water is safe to drink in Malta, though it may taste a little brackish as it’s desalinated sea water. For environmental reasons, try to use a refillable water bottle rather than buying bottled water

Are credit cards accepted widely in Malta?

All major credit cards are widely accepted by stores in Malta. Smaller cafes and shops may not accept credit cards, so ensure you carry enough cash to cover small purchases.

What is ATM access like in Malta?

ATMs are readily available throughout Malta.

What public holidays are celebrated in Malta?

• 1 Jan New Year's Day
• 10 Feb Feast of St Paul's Shipwreck
• 19 Mar Feast of St Joseph
• 31 Mar Freedom Day
• 14 Apr Good Friday
• 1 May Workers' Day 
• 7 Jun Commemoration of 1919 Riot / Sette Giugno
• 29 Jun Feast of St Peter and St Paul
• 15 Aug Feast of the Assumption
• 8 Sep Feast of Our Lady of Victories / Victory Day
• 21 Sep Independence Day
• 8 Dec Feast of the Immaculate Conception
• 13 Dec Republic Day
• 25 Dec Christmas Day

Please note these dates are for 2017. For a current list of public holidays in Malta go to:   http://www.worldtravelguide.net/malta/public-holidays

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilise school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

4-5 days in Malta: the ultimate itinerary

Itinerary: how to spend 4 or 5 days in malta.

You’re planning to spend 4 or 5 days in Malta for your next holidays?

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared a detailed itinerary to visit Malta in 4-5 days and see all the must see attractions of this little Mediterranean island.

I addition to the best places to visit each day , I also give you my best tip s as well as a list of the best places to stay in Malta depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do during your 4-5 days trip to Malta ?

Where to stay in Valletta

Where to stay in mellieha, where to stay in gozo, day 4 : comino / gozo, where to stay in marsaxlokk, the 4 best activities to do in malta, 1) the best activities in malta (and from malta), 2) the best activities in gozo, book your 4-5 day tour to malta in 1 click, going to malta: flight prices, you’re traveling in malta these articles will help you, 4-5 days in malta: what to do and see, day 1: valletta / the 3 cities.

You can’t go 4 or 5 days Malta without spending at least one day in Valletta , Malta’s capital. The city isn’t too spread out so it’s totally possible to explore it on foot in just one day. It will be quite a busy schedule to be able to see everything, so let’s get started!

To visit Valletta in 1 day , I recommend you to start by Valletta’s must-see attraction,  St. John’s Co-Cathedral . It’s a very touristic site, so you should visit it as early as possible in the morning to avoid waiting in line.

It’s also a great way to start your trip to Malta as t he cathedral is truly splendid .

Pillars and walls are covered with gold and the 8 chapels dedicated to each of the Order’s languages are beautifully decorated . The ceiling is covered with frescoes and under the floor made of marble tiles lies the tombs of the Knights of the Order. It’s so beautiful you won’t even know where to look at first!

You will need to wear appropriate clothes to visit the St. John’s Co-Cathedral: you will have to cover your legs and shoulders with a shawl distributed at the entrance and high heels are not allowed. This is serious, as they could damage the floor.

Find all the information about your visit on the cathedral’s official website .

Let’s continue with another must see historical attraction, the Grand Master’s Palace , once home to the Grand Masters of the Order of Malta.

Nowadays, the building houses the office of the president of Malta and her cabinet. It’s however still open to visitors. You can visit the State Rooms (the  Council Chamber  and the Official Dinning Room  are especially impressive) and the armory where you can see armors and weapons worn by knights. When they died, all their gear was returned to to the Order.

When you’re done with the Grand Masters Palace, head to Lower Barrakka Garden to go see the “ Siege Bell War Monument ” and enjoy the view over the harbor.

Then go to Upper Barrakka Garden to attend the traditional 12pm cannon shooting ceremony ! It comes from an old Valletta tradition: foreign vessels would be greeted by a cannon shot from the saluting battery. The garden is mostly worth it for its amazing view over the 3 Cities , located on the other side of the harbor.

To stroll through the typical streets and discover the history of Valletta and its unmissable monuments, I recommend you to choose a guided tour . The guides are really great and have many great anecdotes about the city.

This guided tour in Malta can be booked by clicking the button below:

This tour is also available in a private version (only for your group – Book here ) and the historical version: “Valletta in World War II” there to reserve (also private tour).

And if you want to enjoy a magnificent view of Valletta from the sea , I recommend you to book a trip on board a traditional Maltese boat , the “Luzzu”.

To book, please follow this link:

After your lunch break, it’s time to go to the Three Cities to continue your 4-5 days trip to Malta.

To reach the 3 Cities, take the panoramic lift located in Upper Barrakka Garden. Right after you exit the lift, cross the street and go on the left to reach the piers. From there you can take the Valletta – 3 cities shuttle. A round trip ticket costs 2.80€ and the ride lasts 10min.

The 3 Cities are the following towns: Cospicua, Senglosa and Vittoriosa . The boat takes you to Vittoriosa pier. From there you can explore all 3 cities on foot as you please, or go on a ride on a small tourist train . In the 3 cities, you can enjoy several nice views over Valletta.

To visit the 3 cities, you can also opt for a guided tour . And the little trick is that it also includes a tasting of local wines !

Towards the end of the afternoon, take the shuttle back and finish the day o n Merchant and Republic street . Those are the 2 main commercial streets in Valletta, with lots of stores and gift shops.

If you need more info about Valletta’s main points of interests, you can read my article: The 10 best things to do in Valletta .

If you want to take advantage of your stay in Malta to celebrate something as well (on your last evening or maybe even on several evenings during your stay !) I recommend

• Taking a pub crawl with other party guests – Click here!
• Dance the night away in one of the clubs of Paceville !
• You for a boat party with an open bar!

Voyage For your 4-5 days trip to Malta, You should rent a car . You won’t need it in Valletta, but it will be very useful for the following days.

With a car, you won’t waste time with public transportation . In Malta, schedules are a bit random and bus routes aren’t very optimized for sightseeing. With a car, you will be able to see a lot more things .

When I travel, I always use Rentalcars.com   to rent a car. It’s the best price comparison website! Most of the time, there is no cancellation fee so I would recommend that you book your car rental now if you already have your travel dates. It’s the best way to get the best prices.

• Private Room : Located 300 metres away from Fort St Elmo and 700 meters from the Upper Barrakka gardens. Comfortable double room from 75€, breakfast included. Strong points: the excellent location, the hospitality and kindness of the host, the calm.
• Grand Harbour Hôtel : Hotel with traditional architecture, located in the heart of downtown Valletta, only 100 meters away from the Upper Barraka Gardens. Standard double room from 90€ per night or view sea + Three Cities view for 110€, breakfast included. Strong points: ideal location, magnificent view, roof terrace.
• Tano’s Boutique guesthouse : Hotel located in the center of Valletta, very close to all the best places to visit. Spacious and bright double room from 115€ per night. Strong points: the central location, the calm, the terrace on the roof for breakfast. The best value for money in town!
• Grand Hôtel Excelsior : 5* Hotel located on the waterfront, the view is stunning! Very nice rooms starting at 170€ per night. Strong points: The swimming pool, jacuzzi, free parking, the amazing breakfast and many other things that will make your stay in Valletta truly exceptional. My favourite place to stay in Valletta!
• Hôtel Phoenicia Malta : Luxury hotel located on City Gate square. Spacious, bright and tastefully decorated double room from 349€, breakfast at 17€. Strong points: the infinity pool with view on the port, the huge garden, the place and the free private parking. It’s simply the best hotel in Valletta, if you can afford it.

Day 2 : Mdina / Rabat /Dingli Cliffs / Ghajn Tuffieha Bay

For the second day of your 4 or 5 days Malta itinerary, start by visiting Mdina . The city is located about 20-25min by car from Valletta.

Former capital of Malta, Mdina was then replaced by Valletta, because the knights wanted to be closer to their ships.

During my trip, I really liked Mdina. T his fortified city is very charming with all its narrow streets.

Things to see in Mdina:

• St Paul’s Cathedral and its museum
• Vilhena Palace
• Falson Palace
• Villegaignon Street
• Walk around the old moats turned into a garden.

Just like for Valletta, the best way to discover Mdina is to opt for a guide tour . You can book it directly here:

• Guided tour of Mdina: the meeting point is at the main entrance of Mdina
• Private guided tour on foot: the same tour as above, but only for your group! The date and departure time of the visit are flexible depending on your program.
• All inclusive night tour: This night tour includes Mdina, a 5D show about Malta’s history in Valletta and a visit to the town of Mosta. Transport from your hotel is also included.

You can then easily go visit Rabat from Mdina. No need to take your car, you just have to exit Mdina through the bridge, cross a square and that’s it, you’re in Rabat. The two cities are right next to each other.

Rabat is famous for being the place where Paul the Apostle sought refuge after his ship sank in Malta. Several monuments are dedicated to him, including a church, a cave and catacomb s. You can visit them all.

Then head back to Mdina, get your car back and go to Dingli cliffs , only 15 minutes away. Located 250m above sea level, those cliffs are Malta’s highest point . You can go for a walk and enjoy the beautiful view.

In the afternoon, you should go to the beach in Ghajn Tuffieha Bay . It is, in my opinion,  one of Malta’s most beautiful beach .

Located in the wild, this sandy beach with shallow water is the  perfect place to swim. It’s also possible to rent sun beds if you want to be more comfortable. Be careful of jellyfish, there were plenty of them when we were there.

• Pergola Hotel & Spa : located in Mellieha with a view over the bay, the village, Gozo and Comino . Studio apartment with kitchen amenities starting from 80€/night, breakfast for an additional 8€. Best features: kitchen amenities, view, excellent service, 3 swimming pools.
• Maritim Antonine Hotel & spa : located in Mellieha, 1km away from a vast sand beach. Very spacious and elegent double room starting from 140€/night, breakfast included. Best features: rooftop swimming pool with a scenic view over the bay, heated pool and hot tubs, good buffet with many options, next to bus stops going to Valletta or to the beach. It’s the best value for money in Mellieha.
• Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands : located in Golden Bay and 2min walking distance to a lovely beach. Big double room with balcony (sea view or countryside view) starting from 150€/night, breakfast for an additional 20€. Best feature: direct access to the beach, view, delicious breakfast, during summertime you can get complimentary sun bed and umbrella on the private beach .

• 5 days / 4 nights
• Optimized itinerary
• Created by Voyage Tips

• 6 days / 5 nights

• 7 days / 6 nights

Day 3 : Gozo

For this third day, you will explore Gozo Island , Malta’s more rural little sister.

From Mellieha, go to the Cirkewwa ferry departure point , about 10min away by car.

You won’t have to pay anything on the way to Gozo island , you will only pay on the way back (20€ for one car and two people). The trip lasts about 20mins and there are ferries all day long. Everything is very well organized and boarding/debarkation is quick.

Inside the ferry, there is a convenience shop and a cafeteria if you want to eat something.

The first thing you should do once in Gozo is to go to Victoria, the biggest city on the island . You will be able to visit the Citadella , located on the top of a hill. It offers a nice scenic view over Gozo .

After the Citadella, wander in the city center lovely streets, you will find plenty of gift shops there. There are also many coffee shops and restaurants on Repubblika and Fortunati Mizzi streets. That’s perfect for your lunch break!

Looking for a cheap and quick lunch? Go to Rizzles Caf fé . You will find various food options: pastizzis, pies, pizzas and sandwiches at a very affordable price. For dessert, you can get a big slice of cake for only 1.50€!

You can eat there or order to take away. Address: St Francis Square in Victoria .

In the afternoon, head to the Northwest of Gozo, in Dwejra . As it’s where the famous Azure Window (which collapsed) used to be located, it’s a very touristic spot.

Even if the Azure Window is no more, there are many other things to see there, such as the  Inland Sea, the Deep Blue Hole and Fungus Rock .

Dwejra is also a famous location among Game of Thrones lovers : some scenes from the TV show were shot there. Another good reason to visit it during your 4-5 days itinerary in Malta!

On your way back, stop by Ta’Pinu Basilica , one of the most stunning church in Gozo. The basilica is sumptuous, surrounded by fields and nature. I really loved that place!

If you prefer to explore Gozo with a full day guided tour , you will have many options depending on the means of transport you prefer.

Personally, I have opted for the quad bike tour during my trip to Gozo and I really loved it!

It will allow you to discover the best places to visit in Gozo in a fun way with a local guide.

You will have the choice between 2 types of excursions: simply click on the orange links below to book them (do it as soon as possible, as the quad bike tours are the most popular of the island!)

Actually, these guided quad tours are so good, I’ve contacted the provider to offer you a discount code .

Only voyagetips readers are entitled to it, and it’s only available for the first 50 bookings made in 2024.

So don’t wait, and when you book, try entering the coupon code “tips5” for an instant 5% discount! 😎

• Guided quad bike tour of Gozo   – With transport from Malta + lunch included!
• Guided quad tour of Gozo + sunset – Same as above, but with a later departure to enjoy the sunset. Available between May 15 and October 15.

If want to ride a quad bike in Gozo, but don’t want a guided tour, you can also rent a quad by clicking here. A GPS map is provided, so you’ll know exactly what to visit!

And if there’s no more availability for the guided tour and quad rental , you can see if the other provider who organizes guided tours of Gozo has any availability (click here)

Here are other great tours options, if you don’t want to drive:

• Guided tour of Gozo by bus
• Guided tour of Gozo by Jeep
• Guided tour of Gozo by private Jeep (your group only)

The discount code “tips5” is also available for the 2 tuktuk tours below , which are offered by the same provider as the quad bikes.

• Guided tour of Gozo by Tuktuk (an excellent option!)
• Guided tour of Gozo by Tuktuk + sunset – available from May 15 to October 15 only.

And last solution, you can take the Hop-on Hop-off tourist bus to visit Gozo.

• Guesthouse Bambina : Guesthouse located in Xaghra, 10min walking from the beach. Modern with a zen vibe double room starting from 75€/night. Best features: amazing house with a swimming pool and a great view over Gozo, friendly staff, direct access to the beach, very good value. A great choice in Gozo for its excellent value for money.
• Casa Gemelli Boutique Guesthouse : Charming hotel located in Victoria, the capital of Gozo. Fully renovated double room starting from 90€/night, breakfast included. Decoration is a mix of modern and traditional. Best features: central location, close to all the bus stops, homemade breakfast, friendly and helpful staff.
• The Duke Boutique Hostel : Located in the center of Victoria. Very spacious and comfortable double room starting from 100€/night, breakfast included. Best features: location, great bedding, rooftop terrace view, great breakfast with many options, great staff, some rooms have a hot tub on the balcony.
• Kempiski Hôtel San Lawrenz: Luxury hotel located in San Lawrenz, close to Inland Sea ad Ta’Pinu Basilica. Spacious and modern double room with balcony starting from 116€/night. Breakfast for an additional 25€. Best features: amazing view, huge swimming pools, indoor pool, free parking lot, outstanding breakfast, nice spa. It’s simply the best hotel in Gozo .

And if you prefer to stay in an apartment during trip to Gozo, you should book at The Holiday Hub Gozo.

Located in a typical Maltese building, this modern fully equipped penthouse features 3 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms and can comfortably host up to 6 people.

It’s the perfect accommodation for a trip with your friends or your family!

It also features 2 large terraces (75m²), ideal to enjoy a breakfast outside or an aperitif.

Last but not least: you will also have access to the 150m² rooftop featuring a Jacuzzi (hot tub), plunge pool and BBQ.

A great way to relax after a good day of sightseeing!

Strong points: the calm, the perfect location to visit Gozo, the rooftop and its superb view + the really friendly owners.

Our favorite in Gozo, you should book it really in advance!

To book your stay at The Holiday Hub, simply click the button below:

For this fourth day in your Malta itinerary, go visit Comino , Malta’s smallest island.

From Gozo , you need to take a small shuttle boat to Comino. The trip lasts about 20-25min and costs 10€. There is a boat leaving every hour (even a bit more during high season). The boat departure point is close to the Mgarr ferry departure .

You can also take a boat to Comino from the small beach of Hondoq . You can park your car there. It’s very convenient and it’s faster than from the harbour.

There are 2 options :

• Shuttle boat to Comino (round trip)
• Shuttle boat to Comino (round trip) + visit to the sea caves

The boat will drop you off at Comino’s main attraction, the Blue Lagoon . With its fine sand and crystal clear water , it’s a real paradise!

But there is one downside to this paradise: it’s very crowded! It won’t feel like a desert island, that’s for sure.

There are many day trips coming from Malta, they are bringing tourists all day long. It spoils a little bit the whole experience but one needs to share the fun!

Nevertheless, it’s still a great spot to take a dip, relax and enjoy the sun .

If you’re looking for a calmer spot, there are 2 other beaches in Comino (2 small sandy beaches). They are located next to the only hotel of the island. If you want a quieter spot to swim, you should definitely go there.

In Comino, you will also find public bathrooms and food trucks to get something to eat. I was positively surprised by the quality and affordability of the food despite the lack of competition around.

You can spend half a day to one full day in Comino , it’s up to you.

If you prefer to stay for half a day, it’s then time to take the boat back to Gozo .

In the afternoon , you should go to one of my favorite place in Gozo: Marsalforn salt pans . Park your car and take a stroll along the salt pans and the sea. You can even walk a bit further and reach Wied Il Gashri , a small fjord where you can take a dip.

Looking for more things to do in Gozo? Check out my article: The 10 best places to visit in Gozo.

To organize your trip to Comino , you should have a look at my dedicated article: How to visit Comino?

If you want to escape the crowds, you can also opt for a private boat tour to discover Comino.

My favorite boat trip is organized by Josef: during your boat trip, you will stop at the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon for a swim (snorkeling equipment included!), visit Comino sea caves and have the opportunity to try Subwing , an awesome water sport that will make you experience how it feels to swim like a Dolphin!

This boat trip can be booked for a half day by clicking here

And if you prefer to spend the full day around Comino Blue Lagoon and Gozo , you need to click on the button below (book early!):

Day 5 : Popeye Village / Blue Grotto / Marsaxlokk / St Peter’s Pool

To finish your 4-5 days itinerary in Malta, you will need to go back on the main island.

After you exit the ferry, stop by Popeye Village located only 5-10min away from the harbor.

The whole village was built to serve as a set for the movie”Popeye” with Robin Williams. Today, it’s a small amusement park to discover the world of this famous character. You don’t have to go inside (especially if you don’t like spinach!) but the village with its colorful houses is very photogenic .

Then, let’s head to the Blue Grotto . It’s a famous Malta attraction thanks to its intense blue water . Enjoy the view from the belvedere or opt for one of the boat tours to get inside. Tours last about 30min and leave from Wied Il Zurrieq (only 2min drive from the belvedere).

Continue to Marsaxlokk fishermen village and more precisely the small fishing port with its traditional colorful boats . This charming village is a must see during your trip to Malta.

If you are there on a Sunday, you will also have the opportunity to shop at Marsaxlokk market for the cheapest souvenirs in Malta.

In the afternoon, go to St Peter’s pool located 10 minutes driving from Marsaxlokk.

St Peter’s pool is a natural pool where you can jump directly from the rocks . It’s a famous spot, especially among young people. However, I wouldn’t recommend going there if you are with young children, because you can only access the water by jumping or going down a ladder.

On the right of St Peter’s Pool, you will find rocks shaped like hot tubs next to the water. It’s a quiet place to take a dip.

It’s a good idea to spend the last night of your 4 or 5 days holidays in Marsaxlokk, because it’s located just 15min driving from the airport. Very practical!

Voyage Tips Advice If you’re only in Malta for 4 days , here is my recommended itinerary :

• Day 1:  Valletta / The 3 Cities
• Day 2: Mdina / Rabat / Dingli Cliffs/ Ghajn Tuffieha Bay
• Option 1 : full day in Gozo, similar to the 5 days itinerary (sleep in Gozo or in Mellieha)
• Option 2:  full day in Comino (sleep in Mellieha)
• Option 3 : morning in Gozo + afternoon in Comino (sleep in Gozo)
• Day 4: Popeye Village / Blue Grotto / Marsaxlokk / St Peter’s Pool
• Port View Guesthouse : Guesthouse located in Marsaxlokk, a lovely fishermen village with a popular Sunday market. Modern and comfortable double room starting from 70€/night, breakfast included. Best features: next to the sea, good breakfast and excellent service.
• Harbour Lodge : Located right next to the fishing port. Quiet and comfortable double room starting from 85€/night, breakfast included. Best features: quiet location, free parking lot, free shuttle to the airport.

Other ideas of activities for your 4-5 days in Malta

You want to enjoy more activities during your 4-5 day trip to Malta ?

Great idea!

Here is the complete list of all the best activities to do in Malta. Enjoy!

For more information about these activities and to book them, simply click on the following links:

It’s your first trip to Malta and you want to focus on the best activities and excursions?

In that case, I have selected for you the 4 activities and excursions you can’t miss during your trip to Malta.

So, here are my 4 favorites!

1) Going on a boat trip to Comino Blue Lagoon

• Catamaran boat trip to the Blue Lagoon (transport from Malta can be organized after booking)
• Sailboat “3 islands” day trip – Snacks, wine and lunch + Free transportation from Malta included
• Private VIP boat trip to Comino and Gozo full day (the best!) – Also available for a half day (3h30).
• Full day VIP private boat trip with skipper from Valletta – Full day
• Full day VIP private sailboat trip with skipper from Valletta – The best way to make the most of your day at sea!

2) Visiting Gozo by Quad bike or Jeep

• Full day Quad bike tour in Gozo, with departure from Malta (transport included). Return by boat via Comino and the Blue Lagoon! Definitely one of the best activities in Malta!
• Renting quad bikes in  Gozo: To visit Gozo, you can also rent quad bikes! You can get the best quad bikes (brand new, 450cc) by clicking here and booking them directly on Quad Bikes Gozo website. The rental include helmets, free 2nd driver and a GPS map of Gozo’s best places to visit.
• Gozo: Jeep tour   – Pick up at your hotel in Malta included. A great way to discover Gozo if you don’t want to drive!

3) Diving in Malta and Gozo

• Try dive in Malta – at the best diving center. Just like for the quad bike rental , you just have to call or message me (WhatsApp) at +356 7920 1451 and I will take care of everything!
• First Dive in Gozo , one of the most beautiful dive sites in Europe. And if you already have diving experience, you can opt for the following packages:  “1 day – 2 dives” (click here)  and  “2 days – 4 dives” (click there) .

4) Jet-ski-tour around Comino (Blue Lagoon)

• Jet Ski Tour (From Gozo) – Follow your instructor on an epic 1h tour around Comino and discover the sea caves! – Call me at +356 7920 1451 (phone or whatsapp)  and I will book the activity for you!

In addition to the 4 amazing activities mentioned above, here is the complete list, with all other activities you can do in Malta:

Boat trips to the Blue Lagoon

• Boat trip to Comino Blue Lagoon:   + transport from Malta can be organized after booking
• Catamaran boat trip to the Blue Lagoon + transport from Malta can be organized after booking
• Day trip to Comino Blue Lagoon + 3h to visit the island of Gozo
• 3h boat trip around Comino + 3h tour of Gozo by Jeep
• Shuttle boat to Comino

Visiting Gozo from Malta

• Quad bike day trip to Gozo,  with departure from Malta (transport included). Return by boat via Comino and the Blue Lagoon! Definitely one of the best activities in Malta! –  A half day tour is also possible – click here.
• Gozo: guided Bus Tour  – Pick up at your hotel in Malta
• Gozo: Jeep tour   – Pick up at your hotel in Malta
• Gozo: private Jeep tour   – Pick up at your hotel in Malta

Guided visits and excursions in Malta

• Guided tour of Valletta (small group) / Valletta Private guided tour / Historical tour: Valletta at the time of the Second World War
• Guided tour to the 3 Cities + wine tasting
• Vintage Bus Tour to the 3 Cities
• Guided tour of Mdina (small group) / Private guided tour of Mdina on foot
• All-inclusive night tour:  This night tour includes a visit to Mdina, a 5D show in Valletta about the history of Malta and a visit to the town of Mosta. Transport to and from your hotel is also included.
• Game of Thrones tour  – Malta is one of the filming location for the TV show.
• Day trip to Marsaxlokk and the Blue Grotto  – Transport + guide included!
• Half day guided tour to discover the megalithic temples of Malta,  some of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites
• Private 1 day guided tour of Malta.

Other activities to enjoy in Malta

• Try dive in Malta – at the best diving center. Just like for the quad bike rental, you just have to call or message me (WhatsApp) at +356 7920 1451 and I will take care of everything!
• Boat trip on a traditional Maltese boat in Valletta
• Malta Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Partying in Malta

If you want to take advantage of your stay in Malta to party (on your last evening or maybe even on several evenings during your stay !), you should:

• Go on a pub crawl and make friends from all other the world – Click here!
• Dance all night long in one of Paceville nightclubs
• Opt for a boat party with an open bar .

• Private 3,5 hour boat trip to Gozo and Comino
• Private VIP boat trip to Comino and Gozo full day (the best!)
• How to reach Comino by shuttle boat from Mgarr (Gozo harbour)
• How to reach Comino by shuttle boat from Hondoq
• Shuttle to Comino + visit to the sea caves.
• Visit of Gozo by jeep + lunch + boat trip of 3 hours to Comino

Other activities / Guided tours

• VIP full day quad bike tour in Gozo (top!) – Visit the island of Gozo with the best local guide and take a lunch in an amazing restaurant with countryside view. Small groups + discover more than 2 times more places than with other quad tours (including a few hidden gems!)
• 2h Segway tour with local guide (Gozo)
• 2h or full day hike with a guide (Gozo),  to discover the hidden gems of Gozo, away from mass tourism.
• Quad bike guided tour of Gozo (full day) / Also available for a half day
• Scooter guided tour of Gozo
• Tourist bus tour (Hop-on Hop-off) .

Nautical activities

• First Dive  at one of the most beautiful dive sites in Europe! And if you already have diving experience, you can opt for the following packages:  “1 day – 2 dives” (click here)  and  “2 days – 4 dives” (click there) .
• 1h guided Jet-Ski-Tour – Follow your instructor on an epic 1h tour around Comino and discover the sea caves! –  You just have to call or message me (WhatsApp) at +356 7920 1451 and I will take care of everything!
• Subwing  – New in Gozo, super trendy!
• Snorkeling course
• Jet Ski rental – Reservation by phone or whatsapp at +356 7920 1451
• SUP (Stand Up Paddle) 3h guided tour
• SUP 3h guided tour at sunset
• Paddling experience day + night   (amazing!)
• Boat rental: no license needed (up to 90 HP engine) – Reservation by phone or whatsapp at +356 7920 1451
• Boat rental: with license (more than 90 hp engine) –  Reservation by phone or whatsapp at +356 7920 1451

In this guide, I gave you all my best tips to plan your 4 or 5 days trip to Malta by yourself.

To make your life even easier, I am now offering you to book your trip to Malta in 1 click on “Autotour by Voyage Tips”!

No need to worry about organization: Hotels, car rental and activities , everything will be booked by our team of travel professionals who will create a personalized roadbook for you!

To book your tour to Malta and Gozo now, it’s very simple:

• Select the duration of your trip by clicking here or on the button below
• Select the hotel category of your choice on the tour page (budget, premium or luxury)
• Choose your other options and book your trip in 1 click!

You will see, organizing your trip has never been so easy 😎

Renting a boat in Malta

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your itinerary in Malta, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental.

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Malta? 😊

Flight prices to Malta vary widely, so it is a good idea to compare them as soon as possible. To do this, you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner . It’s the best way to pay the best price!

When you get the results, don’t hesitate to check out multiple website to make sure there is no hidden fee.

You’re going to visit Malta in 4 or 5 days and have questions? Ask me anything about your trip in the comments section below.

Malta travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Malta guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Malta guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Malta : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Malta are listed there.

• Gozo: The 10 must-see attractions of the island
• Valletta: The 10 best things to do

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Discussion 21 comments.

Hello Vincent, I Just want to say a big thank you for all the information. I’ve been reading and searching different places you mention and it’s been so helpful. We’re planning a trip to Malta next year and all your info is really helpful in deciding what, to do, how to get around and where to visit. Again, thank you 🙂

Hello Susan,

Excuse me for the late reply, I am currently traveling in Italy and just saw your comment.

Thanks a lot for taking the time to write your kind message.

I am really glad my articles about Malta are helping you to plan your stay!

Enjoy your trip, and if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me.

Vincent, this is fantastic!

Thank you for this info. We are going for 10 days in November with my 70 year old parents. I was thinking of 2 days on Gozo, 4 nights in Valetta/Birgu and 4 nights somewhere else. Where would you recommend?

We are mostly interested in history and culture and countryside and would like somewhere that is not completely quiet as it’s November. We’ll have a car.

Hello Rachael,

I am glad my blog is helping you to plan your stay in Malta!

You should have a look at my 10 days in Malta itinerary, it should answer most of your questions regarding the things to do and where to stay during your trip.

You can find it here: How to spend 10 days in Malta? .

After reading it, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments of the 10 days article!

Have a great day,

Hello Vincent,

A big thank you for all the information. I’ve been reading and searching different places you mention and it’s been so helpful. We’re planning a trip to Malta coming April 20 for 7 days. We are family of 4 with 2 kids. I was wondering if you can recommend a central place to stay in Malta if we wouldn’t want to change accommodation each day.

Hello Sukhada,

If you don’t want to change accommodation each day, the best is to stay around Mellieha, on the North East coast. You will be closer to the best beaches, to Popeye Village and you can also easily go to Comino and Gozo. From Mellieha, Mdina is only 20 minutes by car and Valletta 40 minutes. The island is very small.

If you stay 7 days in Malta, you can also have a look on this article: A week in Malta.

Enjoy your trip, and if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me.

Thank you so much Vincent ! I have already pinned your article A week in Malta .. Keep vlogging 🙂

Vincent, We will be visiting Malta toward the end of May for 5 days. I want to see everything but don’t want to rush so I think I might have to miss a few things and plan another trip to see what I miss.

I really like to see the blue grotto ,Saint peters pool go to the fishmarket, Tuffieha Bay, Mdina, Upper Barrakka Garden, the 3 cities, and St. John’s Co-Cathedral.

We don’t really want to rent a car and we would rather just stay at one hotel. We were planning on staying at the Grand hotel excelsior.

Do you think all that is possible? With no rental car and staying there?

Your articles are super helpful, thank you so much for taking the time to be some detailed. But any other info or help you could offer would be amazing!

Hello Michele,

I am really glad my article helps you to plan your trip to Malta!

Yes, staying at the Grand Hotel Excelsior in Valletta for your 5 days in Malta is a great idea!

From there it’s easy to visit Valletta (St John Cathedral/Upper Barrakka) and the 3 Cities on foot.

From Valletta, by bus, you can also easily go to Mdina, Tuffieha Bay, Blue Grotto and Marsaxlokk for the fish market (only on Sunday morning).

For St Peter’s Pool however, there is no bus, so you will have to stop at “Delimara” bus stop and then walk about 2 Km to reach the St Peter’s Pool.

If you don’t want to bother with the buses, you can also hire a taxi driver and do Marsaxlokk + st Peters’Pool + Blue Grotto in one day. You can ask Darren, from Gozo Taxi Service (he also plan cabs journeys on Malta island) here: Hire a cab in Malta . I use his services a lot when I go to Malta, especially for airport transfers.

Enjoy your trip to Malta, and if you have other questions, don’t hesitate!

Hello Vincent, I have been to Malta twice, the last time with my husband and son about 7 years ago. I am thinking about another trip in April combined with either Italy or Greece.

Would you have any recommendations as to which country we combine the trip with (easier travel/expense efficient?) and which country destination we start with/end with? I’d like to avoid the super long flights by breaking up the trip.

Appreciate your feedback!

Hello Denise,

For your trip, the easiest/cheapest destination to combine with Malta is Italy for sure.

There are many cheap flights to Sicily (Catania and Palermo), Rome, Pise (great to group with a visit to Florence), Naples etc…

The choice will depend on what the kinds of place you would like to visit, the activities you enjoy and if you want to rent a car or not.

For example: – Heading to Palermo, on the West coast of Sicily, is the perfect choice if you enjoy hiking along the sea and visiting achaeological sites (rental car more or less mandatory) – Rome or Pise/Florence are a better choice for cultural tourism etc..

And you can of course combine several destinations depending on the duration of your trip.

How long do you plan to travel in total?

If you want, you can have a look at all my articles in English about Italy/Sicily here: Destination Italy And you can also have a look at my travel guides about Greece there: Destination Greece

Don’t hesitate to tell me more about what you enjoy doing so I can help you further!

Have a great day and a nice trip 🙂

HI Vincent I am staying in Malta with my adult son for 5 days/4nights in Melleiha, We arrive on Monday and leave on a friday in April 6-10. It seems like there are so many things to see, Im getting a little overwhelmed! LOL I also wanted to slip a relax day or eve by the pool/beach if possible! I booked a private driver for 4 hours on tuesday morning. We can set our own itinerary on where to go. What are your recommendations for us to see and do? Please let me know and I appreciate any help or recommendations for our few days there. Thank You,

Great choice for Mellieha, you will be close to the best beaches of the island.

For the 4 hours with a private driver, you should go to the places that are the hardest to reach by bus:

-Dingli Cliffs, the blue grotto viewpoint (and the short boat excursion inside the Blue Grotto, if you want), Marsaxlokk and St Peter’s Pool.

For the other days, you can pick the the places/activities you are the most interested in from this itinerary, no problem!

Enjoy your trip to Malta!

Hi Vincent,

I liked your article. I am planning a 5-day trip to Malta and would like to know if it is possible to include a day trip to Sicily (Taormina and Etna). How comfortable will it be? Also, what are the available options for weekends for tour in Malta?

Hi Saumitro,

This is unfortunately not really possible to go for a day trip to Sicily, it takes too long (2 hours of ferry one way).

The ferry arrives in Pozzallo, in the south of Sicily, it’s really not convenient to visit Taormina and the Etna. Pozzallo – Taormina is another 2 hours drive, so that would mean 8 hours of transportation in the day (+ ferry boarding, getting a rental car etc…)

For the day tours and activites in Malta, I have written a guide talking about all the best things to do on the island, you can read it here: The 27 Best things to do in Malta .

You can have a look at all the available day tours (both standard and private tours) and their schedules by clicking on the links and buttons in the article.

And if you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to ask me!

Enjoy your trip to Malta 🙂

Thanks for valuable information.

Do you have any contacts of private tours who can provide us a cab with a driver to roam around places in Malta for all 5 days?

Thanks Saumitro

You’re welcome!

Yes sure, you can call my friend Darren from Gozo Taxi Service, he will arrange you everything for Malta and Gozo.

Here is his phone number: tel:+356 9914 9280

You can also have a look at his website: Gozo Taxi Service website

Leave him a message in case he doesn’t answer and tell him you’re calling from me 🙂

Have a great day!

Thanks a lot for your superb Malta travel guidance. The trip was really awesome and memorable. We enjoyed a lot.

Keep writing blogs, it helps travelers like me to explore new places comfortably.

Thanks Saumitro Sinha

I am really glad you enjoyed your stay in Malta and that my guide was useful!

Maybe see you soon on the blog for another trip!

Hi Vincent I enjoy your Blog about both Sicily and Malta. My wife and I are travelling this October to both locations and I am having a very difficult time trying to find out what is the best way to go from Sicily to Malta. Ferry or Plane? Thanks, Mike.

Thank you! The quickest and cheapest way to get to Malta from Sicily is to travel by plane. With Air Malta or Ryanair, you have direct flights from Catania every day. The flight takes less than an hour.

Enjoy your stay in Malta and Sicily!

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How to spend 5 days in Malta to live your own Mediterranean dream!

Share this 5 day Malta itinerary

Type “1 week itinerary Malta” and you will get tons of information. I tried, and it was overwhelming. In this article, I will organize things a bit based on my own visit, to help you plan a trip to this fascinating country. It is essentialy an article about how to spend 5 days in Malta, plus two days to fly there and back.

Last updated on: 10 January 2024

Table of Contents

Map with all sights mentioned in this malta itinerary.

Each color corresponds to a specific day of this Malta itinerary. 

A special reference to the rich history of Malta

Prehistoric times, phoenicians & romans.

“Where is Malta?” and “What are the best things to do in Malta?” are two questions I get a lot, as people struggle to find the country on the map. 🙂 Malta is a small island in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. Humans have inhabited the island from around 5900 BC. The first settlers were European Neolithic agriculturalists. A prehistoric Neolithic culture developed on Malta. The testimonies of this are the Megalithic structures, some of which date back to around 3600 BC (more on these later).

Around 800-700 BC, the Phoenicians colonized Malta and brought their Semitic language and culture.

Arabic and Hebrew belong to the same branch, the Semitic languages.

Phoenicians used the islands as an outpost, from where they explored the Mediterranean further and developed trade relations with other people. The Romans pushed away the successors of Phoenicians, the Carthaginians , in 216 BC. Maltese inhabitants helped the Romans and Malta became a Roman municipium .

Being part of a Roman municipium offered protection by the Roman Empire. This came with certain obligations, of course.

Byzantines, Arabs, Crusaders & the arrival of the British

Around the 4th century, the Vandals (Germanic people) briefly occupied Malta. However, shortly after Malta fell under Byzantine rule and this remained so until the 9th century. 

In 870, the Arab dynasty of the Aghlabids invaded Malta and theories suggest that the islands may have been repopulated by settlers from Arab-ruled Sicily. These settlers spoke Siculo-Arabic, which is the predecessor of modern Maltese language.  Normans conquered Malta in 1091 and drove Arabs away. By 1249, the islands had become completely re-Christianised.

Later, the islands became part of the Kingdom of Sicily until 1530 and were also briefly under the control of the Capetian House of Anjou (in modern France). In 1530, Charles V of Spain (Holy Roman Emperor) gave the Maltese islands to the Catholic Order of Knights of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem in perpetual lease.

In 1798, Napoleon briefly occupied the island, but the Maltese ousted the French two years later with the aid of the British. The inhabitants then asked Britain to assume sovereignty over the islands. Malta became a British colony with the Treaty of Paris in 1814.

Malta becomes independent

In 1956 Malta almost became part of the UK, but this did not come to fruition. Malta ultimately became an independent state on 21 September 1964 (Independence Day). Elizabeth II initially remained the queen and a governor-general exercised authority on her behalf.

On 13 December 1974 (Republic Day), Malta became a republic within the (British) Commonwealth of Nations , with the President as head of state. On 31 March 1979, the last British troops and Royal Navy left Malta and this day is known as Freedom Day. Malta then  became a neutral and non-aligned state. On 1 May 2004, Malta joined the European Union and started using the Euro as its currency on 1 January 2008.

As you can imagine, all these different periods have left a mark on Malta. Today, the island is a fascinating mix of various influences with a distinct Maltese character.

Day 1: Valletta & surroundings

A tiny capital full of character.

Valletta is the capital of Malta and has around 6 thousand inhabitants. It is a must in any Malta 5-day itinerary. 

Valletta is a fortified city on a hilly peninsula between two natural harbors. The city was founded in 1566, shortly after the Siege of Malta by the Ottomans. It is a must in any Malta itinerary and in this article you can read about how to spend one day in Valletta.

Day 2: Middle & West Malta – Mdina, Rabat, Mosta, Zebbuq

An unusual church interior.

On this day, we focused on the western part of Malta. We left Sliema in the morning and headed towards the town of Zebbug . There we paid a visit to the Parish Church of Saint Philip of Agira . The original church was built in 1412. Following the Great Siege of Malta, the current church was erected. The current church was built between 1599 and 1632 and enlargement works took place in 1660. Side aisles were added in 1913. What makes it striking is its red interior.  

Lost glory in Mdina

We continued to the town of Mdina, where we arrived after 20 minutes. Mdina is a fortified town and forms a contiguous unit with the adjacent town of Rabat. Around 14 thousand people live there today. It is without a doubt a must in your Malta 5-day itinerary.

The Phoenicians founded Mdina as Maleth around the 8th century BC. The Romans renamed it Melite and it grew significantly. During the Arab occupation of Malta, Mdina got its current name, which comes from the Arabic word “medina”.

The word “medina”refers to the walled part of old North African towns. You will find many “medinas” in Morocco , Algeria and Tunisia.

Mdina functioned as the capital of Malta throughout the Middle Ages, until the arrival of the Order of St. John in 1530. The Knights of Malta turned Birgu into the administrative centre of the island and Mdina declined. During the time of the Knights, several Baroque structures appeared and the medieval character of the town was maintained. Furthermore, Mdina remained the center of the Maltese nobility and religious authorities. However, the city never regained its pre-1530 importance. A nickname of Mdina is “Silent City” and when you walk there you will see why. Having said that, it can get a bit crowded in places because it is a popular destination among visitors. This makes it no less appealing, however.

As you enter the walled city of Mdina, you will notice the magnificent Main Gate . The gate was built in the Baroque style in 1724 during the magistracy of Grand Master António Manoel de Vilhena.

Next to the main gate you will encounter Palazzo Vilhena , also called Magisterial Palace or Palazzo Pretorio. It has a typical French Baroque style and is named after Grand Master António Manoel de Vilhena, who commissioned it. The palace was built between 1726 and 1728. During the 19th century, it functioned as a hospital and became known as Connaught Hospital. Today it is open to the public as a museum.

A little further down the street it is worth checking out Tales Of The Silent City . This museum documents the city’s medieval past during times of glory. Almost right next to the museum you will find Palazzo Santa Sofia . Its ground floor dates from 1233 and is possibly the oldest surviving building in the city. The upper floor was added in the 20th century. 

A block from Palazzo Santa Sofia you will find the Cathedral of Saint Paul (open Mon-Fri 9:30-16:30, Sat 9:00-15:30). The original cathedral was founded in the 12th century. According to tradition, the church stands on the site of where Roman governor Publius met St. Paul following his shipwreck on Malta. The 1693 Sicily earthquake destroyed the cathedral and a new church was rebuilt in Baroque style between 1696 and 1705. Maltese architect Lorenzo Gafà designed it and it is regarded as his masterpiece.

Another beautiful church to visit is the Baroque Church of the Annunciation of Our Lady which opened its doors in 1675 and is also known as The Carmelite Church .

As you head north along Triq Il Villegaignon, you will end up at yet another palace, Palazzo Falson (open 10:00-17:00). It used to be the residence of the Falson family.

From Palazzo Falson, it is a short walk to Bastion square , from where you can enjoy scenic views towards west and north Malta. I found Mdina a true delight to visit. It is a must-see in your Malta itinerary.

Roman and Christian heritage in Rabat...and a tasty bonus

We exited the walled city of Mdina and headed towards the adjacent town of Rabat. We paid a brief visit to Domvs Romana (Roman House) . The house was erected in the 1st century BC as an aristocratic town house (domus) inside the Roman city of Melite. In the 11th century, a Muslim cemetery was established on the ruins of the house.

Very close to Domys Romana, you will find Is-Serkin – Crystal Palace Bar . The place is known for serving some of the best pastizzi in Malta. And they were delicious indeed!

Pastizzi are typical pastries that are filled with pea paste or ricotta cheese. Both versions are delicious! Lately, they also come with chicken filling.

A few more interesting places to visit in the town of Rabat include:

• Casa Bernard (Mon to Sat 10:00-16:00): a typical 16th-century Baroque palace.
• Basilica of Saint Paul dating from the 17th century
• Wignacourt Collegiate Museum , which was formerly the baroque residence of the Chaplains of the Knights of St. John. It bears the name of the Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt, who ruled over the Maltese Islands between 1601 and 1622.

The Pantheon of Malta

We continued driving northeast and after about 20 minutes we reached the town of Mosta . The single most important thing to see there is the Sanctuary Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady . It is commonly known as the Rotunda of Mosta . Construction works began in 1833 and the church was completed in 1860. It has a neoclassical design and stands on the site of an earlier Renaissance church which had been built in 1614.

If you have been to Rome, the church may ring a bell as its design is based on the Pantheon in Rome . In fact, the Rotunda of Mosta has the third largest unsupported dome in the world. It is also Malta’s largest church. It is astonishing that it is still standing, as a German aerial bomb pierced the dome and fell into the church on 9 April 1942 during the Second World War. Thankfully, the bomb failed to explode and the locals saw this as a miracle. Rotunda was another of the highlights of our Malta 5-day itinerary.

Beautiful landscapes and a movie set

We left Mosta in the afternoon and headed towards the western coast in the district of Mellieha. If you have an extra day available, it is worth hiking around Il-Blata tal-Melh . Ghajn Tuffieha Bay is a place to enjoy one of the few sandy beaches on Malta. Nearby Golden Bay is also sandy and larger, but is also much busier.

Finally, Popeye Village might be a fun thing to do, especially for families. The place is also called Sweethaven Village and is a film set village that has been converted into a small attraction fun park. It was built as a film set for the production of the 1980 live-action musical feature film “Popeye” starring Robin Williams and Shelley Duvall. 

Do you have limited time and wonder how to visit Malta in two days? Then day 1 and 2 make the perfect trip. These days contain most of the best 10 things to see in Malta. If you have more time, then keep reading! 🙂

Day 3: Day trip from Malta to Gozo (Għawdex)

The tranquil part of the country.

Gozo is called Għawdex in Maltese, but was also known as Gaulos in antiquity. It is the second biggest island of the Republic of Malta, after the island of Malta itself. Around 32 thousand people live there as of 2022, which means the population density is much lower than Malta island. This makes Gozo rather quiet compared to the big island and it definitely has a rural character. This is also its beauty and a reason why it is an essential addition to your Malta 5-day itinerary. In this article I describe how to spend a day in Gozo. You will love the island like I did!

Day 4: South Malta – Grottos, Neolithic temples, cliffs and more

An imposing rock formation.

On this day, we explored the southern part of Malta. This part is less densely populated than the northern half and it is also hillier in general. We left Sliema and drove along the airport, continuing south. Our first stop was the Blue Grotto in Wied iz-Żurrieq. This is a complex of seven sea caves and a popular place to visit. You can get impressive views from the cliff, but it is also possible to do a small group tour by boat.

The place got its name in the 1950s, when a British soldier who was visiting the area compared it to Capri’s famous Grotta Azzura (literally “Blue Grotto”). This was because of of its amazing clear, bright blue waters.

There is one more Blue Grotto on Kastellorizo island, Greece, which I was lucky enough to visit and describe in this fantastic itinerary .

The Blue Grotto complex has a massive arch of some 30 meters (98 ft) in height. Some of the six other caves are called the Honeymoon Cave, the Cat’s Cave and the Reflection Cave.

Special note for diving enthusiasts:

Local diving operators organize group dives to the “Blue Grotto Dive Site”. The site is not right at Blue Grotto, but about a kilometre (0.6 mile) to the west. If you do this dive, you will also likely visit one of the Mediterranean’s most famous dive sites, the Um El Faroud wreck. This is a tanker that sank in 1998. This is an excellent dive but you need a bit of experience. Two other dive locations in the area include the eastern reef of Wied iż-Żurrieq and the west reef.

Two more of the marvelous Megalithic Temples of Malta

Very close to the Blue Grotto is one of the highlights of Malta: Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra megalithic temples ( opening hours ). These temples are from the same period as Ġgantija temples in Gozo (approx. 3600–3200 BC). Together with nerby Mnajdra temples, Ġgantija temple in Gozo and Tarxien temples near Valletta (more on this in day 5), they form the Megalithic Temples of Malta . I am into history, so I just had to include them in my Malta itinerary. 

The temples are in fact among the most ancient religious sites on Earth. Remember I wrote earlier that Ġgantija is even older than the pyramids of Egypt. The people who built the temples back then used limestone. As you might know, limestone does erode easily and as a result of this, the temple has suffered from severe weathering and surface flaking over the millennia. Fortunately, a protective tent was installed in 2009 and there is still plenty to see. It was such a delightful experience to witness these ancient structures from so close. Hiking in the surrounding area was also very enjoyable.

Religious architecture, great views & delicious local produce

We continued by heading northwest along the coast and briefly stopped at the village of Siġġiewi to visit the beautiful church of St. Nicholas , which dates from the 17rth century. 

We then continued along the coast until we reached Dingli Cliffs . From here you get very scenic views of the dramatic coastline. Nearby Ta’ Dmejrek is the highest point of Malta at 253 meters (830 ft).

We then drove to the nearby village of Ħad-Dingli where we enjoyed a delicious farm-to-table style meal at Diar il-Bniet restaurant . Be sure to try the excellent Maltese Gbejniet cheese if you are a cheese lover. It is seriously good!

If you did not do so on day 2 and are in the mood for hiking, Il-Blata tal-Melh further northwest is a scenic and tranquil area. I particularly enjoyed this part of Malta, partly because it retains a quieter atmosphere in a densely populated island. From there, it is a 30-minute drive back to Valletta/Sliema.

Day 5: East Malta – Monumental cities, unique archaeology & fishing heritage

Visiting the three cities.

On our last full day in Malta, we explored the eastern part of the island, roughly east of the line that runs from Valletta to Malta International airport. We left Sliema in the morning and headed just east/southeast of Valletta to the so-called Three Cities: Vittoriosa (also called Birgu), Senglea and Cospicua (also called Bormla) . This 3 cities tour Malta is a must. 

Senglea and Birgu cover two peninsulas just opposite of Valleta on the Grand Harbor. Cospicua is just south of Senglea and a bit further inland. The Three Cities have a lot of preserved architecture and lots more to see. You can easily spend a few hours there, before continuing.

A fun way to get there is by crossing the Grean Harbor with a traditional dgħajsa water taxi  (dgħajsa tal-pass). During the Hospitaller rule in Malta, the settlements of Valletta and the Three Cities developed rapidly and there arose a demand for a ferry service in the Grand Harbor. The dgħajsa tal-pass likely emerged in the early 17th century to meet this demand. The design of the dgħajsa is similar to older water taxis in Sicily.

Vittoriosa, the cradle of Maltese history

The fortified city of Vittoriosa is actually one of the oldest in Malta. People often refer to it as the cradle of Maltese History. It was the first place where the Knights of the Order of St John were based, after they settled on Malta in 1530. Thanks to this, Vittoriosa contains some of the most historic churches, palaces and noble homes in Malta.

The original name of the city was Birgu, but was renamed Vittoriosa (meaning “victorious”) after the Great Ottoman Siege of 1565. This was meant to commemorate the role it played in the defense of the island. Fort St. Angelo sits on the tip of Vittoriosa’s peninsular and is an important part of Malta’s military heritage. The fort was once home to the Grand Master of the Order of St John.

Another must-see place in Vittoriosa is the Inquisitor’s Palace ( opening hours ). It dates from the 1530s and originally functioned as a courthouse. Later it became the seat and home of the Catholic Inquisitors for over 200 years. You can take a tour to a few restored rooms and original cells within the palace. Some of the cells still contain carvings made by the prisoners. The building is also home to the Museum of Ethnography , which is dedicated to Maltese religion and culture.

On Vittoriosa’s waterfront you will find the island’s largest museum, Malta Maritime Museum ( opening hours ). The museum takes you through Malta’s 7,000-year seafaring history and contains artefacts, such as a ancient Maltese boats and a giant Roman anchor that belonged to the Knights.

Another notable site in Vittoriosa is St. Lawrence Church .It was designed in the Roman-baroque style in the late 1600s and it served as the church of the Order of St John until St John’s Co-Cathedral was opened in Valletta in 1577. If you visit in August, you can attend the annual Feast of St. Lawrence.

A cute feature of the city are the “hall-in-the-wall” type eateries, where you can enjoy local snacks like the delicious pastizzi I described earlier. Birgi is a highly-rated place, but there are many more.

Cospicua, the largest of the Three Cities

Cospicua is the largest of the Three Cities and it was originally known as Bormia. The city was awarded the name Cospicua (meaning “conspicuous”) by the Knights to honor its people who defended it during the Great Ottoman Siege. The city sufferer damage during the conflicts but was eventually rebuilt.

One of the highlights of Cospicua is the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception . Inside the church you will find notable art pieces, such as a painting of The Madonna and Child by Italian painter Polidoro Veneziano, which is above the high altar.

Another major landmark is the defense fortifications around the city. There are two main fortification works: the Firenzuola Fortifications dating from 1638 and the smaller Cottonera Lines, which were erected in 1670. 

Senglea: fortified and magnificent

Senglea is on a peninsula parallel to Vittoriosa. Unlike the other Three Cities of Malta, Senglea sufered very little damage during the Great Ottoman Siege thanks to its fortification. For this reason, it is also commonly known as Citta’ Invicta (the invincible city). The city used to be called L’Isla (meaning “the island”) but it was eventually named after Grand Master Claude de la Senglea, who had fortification works done in 1551. Unfortunately, 75% of Senglea did suffer damage during World War II, but many of its glorious structures were restored afterwards. 

Safe Haven Gardens at Senglea Point is a great place to get stunning views of the Grand Harbor and Valletta across the bay, especially from the stone bastion lookout point known as Il-Gardjola . Another notable sight is Our Lady of Victories Parish Church . The church was built following the Great Siege and is dedicated to the Nativity of the Virgin Mary. Like many other churches on Malta, it has beautiful interiors and works of art, such as a wooden statue of the Virgin Mary.

A unique underground experience

A 10-minute drive south/southwest of the Three Cities brought us to one of my personal highlights in Malta: Hal Saflieni Hypogeum ( opening hours and ticket booking ). This is a Neolithic underground structure that dates from 3300 – 3000 BC. The name Hypogeum means “underground” in Greek. Archaeologists believe that it was a sanctuary and necropolis. The remains of some 7,000 people have been found. It is one of the best preserved examples of the Maltese temple building culture and another of my personal highlights of this Malta 5-day itinerary.

The Hypogeum was discovered by chance in 1902 when workers were cutting cisterns for a new housing development. Thy penetrated the roof of the Hypogeum and a whole new structure appeared. Unfortunately, many items such as grave goods and human remains were emptied out and discarded without being properly catalogued.

The Hypogeum first opened to visitors in 1908 while the excavations continued. However, high visitor numbers brought the deterioration of the colorful patterns inside the Hypogeum due to humidity. In 1991, it closed for a decade for restoration works. In May 2017 it opened for good and today a limited number of visitors can enter each day.

Be sure to book your tickets many weeks in advance, as daily capacity is limited and tickets sell out quickly. Booking 3-4 months ahead of time is best.

When you get underground, you will experience something magical that will take you back in time. Be aware that photos are not allowed inside the cave.

You are now in the town of Paola and very close to the Hypogeum it is also worth visiting the Parish Church of Paola , also known as Basilica of Christ the King . The church dates from early 20th century and has a relatively sober yet grand interior.

More marvelous Megalithic structures

Very close to the Hypogeum I recommend visiting  Tarxien Temples (Ħal Tarxien Prehistoric Complex) ( opening hours ). Together with the previously mentioned temple complexes they form the Megalithic Temples of Malta. Tarxien Temples date from approximately 3150 BC. 

The temples consist of three separate temple structures that stand next to each other.

• The west temple dates from approximately 3100 BC and is  the most elaborately decorated of the temples of Malta.
• The middle temple dates to about 3000 BC. Unlike other Maltese temples, it has three pairs of apses instead of the usual two.
• The east temple also dates from around 3100 BC.

Further to the east there are the remains of another smaller and older temple which dates from around 3250 BC. Tarxien Temples have intricate stonework, which depicts domestic animals carved in relief, screens decorated with spiral designs, altars and other patterns. A chamber between the South and Central temples contains a relief showing a bull and a sow.

People used this site mostly for rituals, which probably involved animal sacrifice. During the Bronze Age, the site was reused as a cremation cemetery.

Tarxien Temples also make clear how the megaliths were constructed. This happened with the help of stone rollers, which still stand outside one of the temples. Additionally, evidence of cremation has been found at the center of the South temple. This is an indicator that the site was reused as a Bronze Age cremation cemetery.

Malta's fishing heritage & a few scenic spots

We continued driving east and after about 15 minutes we reached the town of Marsaxlokk . The best day to visit is Sunday, as there is a big Sunday market in the town. It is a lively town and the largest fishing harbor in Malta. Its special character and heritage alone make it worth adding to your 5 days in Malta itinerary.

Near Marsaxlokk there are a few beautiful rock formations as well as nice swimming spots:

• St. Peter’s Pool
• Ta Kalanka Sea Cave
• Munxar Window

Finally, a 15-minute drive south of Marsaxlokk will bring you to another scenic spot for great views: Ghar ir-Rih.

We spent the afternoon relaxing in Marsaxlokk and had delicious fish for dinner. It was another very satisfying day and a a great conclusion to our trip.

A nice extra, if you have more time

Earlier I mentioned that Malta is by far the largest of the islands and Gozo is its little sister. There is a third island that many visitors like to experience: the tiny island of Comino, between Malta and Gozo. There are hardly any people living there permanently, but the island has some stunning coastline. The Blue Lagoon is the highlight but there are also other beautiful beaches to visit, like Crystal Lagoon.

Besides beautiful beaches, on Comino you will also find a few monuments, like Saint Mary’s Watchtower. If you have 1 week in Malta, Comino makes a very pleasant day trip. 

So, is Malta worth visiting?

I had heard mixed reviews about Malta. Positive reviews had to do with its culture and negative reviews had to do with it being overcrowded and having ugly buildings in certain places. The latter is true, as I did not find St. Julian’s and especially Bugibba particularly appealing.

However, Malta has a truly fascinating history thanks to so many cultures that interacted on the island. It is unlike any other country in Europe in this regard. It has a distinct Arab and Middle eastern heritage mixed with European Catholicism and traditions with a touch of Crusader heritage and rich Baroque architecture. Malta is truly unique and if you venture off the beaten path you will appreciate its special character, too. It is one of my favorite European countries to this day and I highly recommend it!

Malta practical information

Best time to visit malta.

Malta has a warm Mediterranean climate and the weather is sunny and dry between May and September. During that time, temperature are typically between 25 and 32 degrees Celsius (77 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit). May to September are great times to visit, but if you want to avoid crowds then March-April and October are good times, too. Temperatures then are still relatively mild, it just rains a bit more often.

Flights to Malta | How to get to Malta

Malta airport serves flights to Malta and is well connected to Europe, Turkey and Tunisia. Air Malta sometimes has good deals, so keep an eye on fares.

You can also get top Malta from Sicily by ferry. This website lets you book ferry tickets.

How many days in Malta

5 full days is the perfect time, as you can visit most important places I described. But visiting Malta in two days will also give you an idea of the country. As usual, the more time the better. 1 week in Malta will allow you to discover the island at a more relaxed pace. You can even combine this trip with a neighboring country. How about a Greece and Malta itinerary, or even a Malta and Sicily itinerary? The possibilities are endless thanks to Malta’s location.

An essential travel insurance for Malta

Having a travel insurance is essential for traveling, just in case. Click on this link to get a free quote from SafetyWing , one of the best travel insurance companies out there.

Staying connected | Malta SIM card

I highly recommend ordering an eSIM in advance to save time. Airalo is the best provider for this. You can order your Malta eSIM on this page .

If you come from an EU/EEA country, then your plan likely covers Malta.

Best area to stay in Malta

Malta is not that big, so you do not have to worry much about accessibility, especially if you rent your own car. A few indicative places to stay are the area around Valletta , Sliema or St. Julian’s . Bugibba is also popular and Mdina might be a bit more quiet. The area around Marsaxlokk is another option. For an even more quiet and intimate experience, you can opt for the nearby island of Gozo .

Is Malta expensive?

For a European country, Malta is relatively affordable. Our car rental was around €25/day in late April, and our accommodation at a very goodlocation in Sliema cost around €80/night. Restaurants were reasonably rpiced as well. In general, Malta is not cheap like countries as Armenia and Vietnam , but it is certainly accessible to the average traveler.

How to get around Malta

By public transportation : Malta has a decent bus network and Valletta bus station is a hub. The 120 bus route serves the most populous areas around Valletta, Sliema and the Three Cities. You can easily plan your route here or on Google Maps. 

By car : This is really the best way of seeing Malta, as you do not depend on bus schedules. Roads were not that great when I visited, but the government plans to allocate hundreds of millions of Euros to improve the roads. Even if drivers were a bit reckless at times, Malta is still a safe country to drive in. Be aware that they drive on the left, a remnant of their time under British control.

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Hi there, my name is Panos and I live and breathe for traveling! I have visited more than 55 countries so far and aim to discover them all! In my eyes, traveling is not a lifestyle item, but a way to learn and broaden one’s horizons. My philosophy is that, if you plan well, you can discover new places in a more relaxed way without spending a fortune. Being a natural-born travel planning consultant, I love making amazing trips accessible to everyone. I have done tons of on-the-ground research before each trip, and have documented my journeys in detail.

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A week in Malta: The perfect 7-day Malta itinerary

I have to admit that I didn’t know much about Malta before I started planning my trip there. I knew it was an island nation in the Mediterranean Sea but that was about it. After spending a week in Malta, exploring the different corners of the archipelago, I was blown away by how much this tiny country has to offer! 

In this post, I’m sharing a 7-day Malta itinerary that will take you to the most beautiful places on the Maltese islands – from gorgeous beaches and natural marvels to picturesque medieval towns and epic viewpoints.

Malta lies about 80 kilometers (50 miles) south of Sicily and consists of three islands – Malta, Gozo and Comino. With a total area of 316 km2, it is one of the smallest countries in the world. 

Despite its compact size, Malta has a fascinating history and cultural heritage. It was ruled by the Phoenicians, the Romans, the Arabs, the British Empire and others, who all left their mark on the country. You can clearly notice it in the Maltese language, which is of Arabic origin and also uses words derived from Italian, English and French.

With one week in Malta, you can visit all the main attractions on the island. But you could easily spend two weeks and not run out of things to do, especially if you also want to have some lazy days at the beach. You’ll find my tips for what to do if you have more than 7 days in Malta at the end of the post.

In the itinerary below, I’ve outlined the best things to do on each of the 7 days and provided my recommendations on where to stay. I’ve also included a map with the exact locations of all the stops on this one-week Malta itinerary.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase.

Getting around Malta

The easiest and most efficient way to explore the island is to rent a car and embark on a Malta road trip. Not only is it the fastest way to get around but it will also give you the freedom to stop wherever you want.

Driving in Malta is safe and relatively easy, and overall the roads are in good condition (unless you accidentally end up on some bumpy backcountry roads). Just be aware that you need to drive on the left side. Also, in cities like Sliema and Valletta, some of the streets are very narrow and there’s not a lot of parking space so it’s better to leave your car behind and explore these places on foot.

It’s also possible to travel around Malta by bus but it would take you longer to get from one place to another and it would be difficult to reach some of the more remote spots. If you’d only like to visit the most popular tourist attractions and bigger cities, and you’re not short on time, then you could definitely consider using the public bus network or this hop-on hop-off bus .

Since this 7-day Malta itinerary includes some relatively remote places (as well as the popular attractions), it is best done as a road trip. However, with some adjustments, you can still follow this route even if you don’t plan to rent a car.

Malta itinerary: How to spend a week in Malta

Day 1: valletta and the three cities.

On the first day of your Malta trip, I recommend visiting the beautiful capital city Valletta. Since Valletta is very small (it’s the smallest capital in the EU!), it is best explored on foot. Therefore, there’s no need to rent a car for the first day.

Built in the 16th century, the city of Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is packed with architectural marvels. The most important historical landmarks here are the Grandmaster’s Palace (currently being renovated) and St. John’s Co-Cathedral with its ornate Baroque interior.

Take your time to wander around the narrow hilly streets and admire the medieval buildings decorated with colorful wooden balconies. Along the bustling Republic Street, which is the city’s biggest and busiest street, you’ll find countless restaurants, cafes and shops.

Another must-visit spot in Valletta is the Upper Barrakka Gardens. This public park is not only a great place to relax but it also offers a stunning view of the Grand Harbor and the neighboring towns of Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua – collectively known as the Three Cities. Every day at noon and at 4pm, you can watch a cannon being fired at the Saluting Battery right next to the park.

If you’d like to learn about the history of Valletta (and also sample some local specialties like pastizzi ), consider taking one of these guided tours below:

To visit the Three Cities, you can simply take the ferry that departs across the street from the Barrakka Lift. These ferries depart every 30 minutes and the scenic journey takes only 10 minutes. I didn’t have time to visit the three cities but I’ve heard that they are lovely little towns with quaint alleyways, spectacular views and an authentic vibe.

Where to stay

Spend the night in Valletta. Be aware that accommodation options here are rather limited and rooms tend to get sold out very quickly, especially in the summer. If you want to be sure that you get to spend a night in Valletta, book your room several months in advance.

MID-RANGE: Casa Asti Casa Asti is set in a charming 400-year-old building, just a short walk from the center of the city. It’s a family-run guest house and their quirky rooms are absolutely adorable. This place offers excellent value for money.

LUXURY: The Embassy Valletta Hotel This wonderful hotel is located in the heart of Valletta’s historic center and has elegant spacious rooms. But the best part about this place is their rooftop with a heated pool and a phenomenal view over Valletta.

Day 2: Blue Grotto, Marsaxlokk and St. Peter’s Pool

On Day 2 of your Malta itinerary, pick up your rental car and explore the southern coast of the island.

Start by visiting the Blue Grotto, one of the most famous natural landmarks of Malta. The Blue Grotto consists of a group of sea caves but its most prominent feature is a massive rock arch rising out of the turquoise sea. 

You can either admire this natural spectacle from a viewpoint on the side of the road or you can take a short boat trip to get a closer look at the mesmerizing caves. The boat tours depart from Wied Iż-Żurrieq village.

Next, drive to the idyllic fishing village Marsaxlokk. As soon as you arrive at the harbor, you’ll see dozens of colorful traditional Maltese boats, called Luzzu, which the village is known for. 

Take a stroll along the beautiful waterfront promenade, have a drink with a harbor view and enjoy the catch of the day in one of the many seafood restaurants. I’ve heard great things about T’Annamari Restaurant but unfortunately it was closed during our visit.

After visiting Marsaxlokk, spend a relaxing afternoon at St Peter’s Pool. This natural pool is a popular spot among the locals who come here to swim, sunbathe and cliff jump.

On a calm day, the water in the cove is crystal clear and bright blue. When we were there though, the sea was very rough. There’s also a hiking trail along the coast where you can discover other secluded coves and viewpoints.

I recommend spending the next three nights in St. Julian’s or Sliema. These areas are just a stone’s throw from Valletta but offer a lot more accommodation options and you’ll have a better chance of finding parking.

MID-RANGE: be.HOTEL This modern 4-star hotel is situated near many shops, bars and restaurants, and boasts an amazing rooftop terrace with a heated pool. A delicious breakfast is included in the room rate as well!

LUXURY: Boutique Hotel Juliani Located on St. Julian’s waterfront, this stylish family-run boutique hotel offers bright and spacious rooms and a rooftop pool with a view over Spinola Bay. They also have a fitness center and a spa.

Day 3: Mdina, Rabat and Dingli Cliffs

The next stop on this 7-day Malta itinerary is Mdina, also known as The Silent City. This gorgeous fortified town is the former capital of Malta and one of the top attractions in the country. 

The best thing to do here is to wander around the winding alleyways, marvel at the impressive Norman and Baroque architecture and take in the town’s medieval charm. The most notable attractions in Mdina are St. Paul’s Cathedral, Mdina Gate, Palazzo Falson and Palazzo Vilhena.

If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, you’ll probably recognize some spots in Mdina since it was the filming location for “King’s Landing”.

Looking for something to eat? Then pop into Fontanella Tea Garden for some delicious cakes, Maltese specialties and sweeping views of eastern Malta.

After exploring Mdina, visit the adjacent town Rabat. Take a stroll around its narrow streets, visit some local shops and enjoy the authentic vibe. If you’re into eerie experiences, you might also want to visit the underground tombs of St. Paul’s Catacombs.

Round off your day with a visit to Dingli Cliffs. I didn’t have the chance to visit these cliffs myself but it’s high on my list for the next time I visit Malta! With a height of 250 meters, this place is the highest point in Malta and offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s also considered one of the best spots for watching the sunset in Malta so you might want to time your visit accordingly.

Spend another night in St. Julian’s, at be.HOTEL or at Boutique Hotel Juliani .

Day 4: Red Tower, Popeye Village and beaches

Continue your Malta road trip by exploring the northern part of the main island.

Start with a quick visit to Saint Agatha’s Tower, also known as the Red Tower. This 17th-century fortified watchtower is painted in bright red color and looks like a small castle. 

As it sits on top of a hill, the views from here are pretty amazing and you can even see the islands of Comino and Gozo. Walking around outside the tower is free of charge but if you’d like to enter to learn about its history, you’ll need to pay a couple of euros.

After that, head to Popeye Village . This place served as the film set of the 1980 movie “Popeye” and is now used as a theme park. 

Even if you don’t care about Popeye or theme parks, it’s definitely worth making a quick stop at the viewpoint opposite the village. It’s free of charge and you get to see the fantastic turquoise water of Anchor Bay with a backdrop of the quirky village. You might recognize this view from social media since it’s one of the most famous Malta Instagram spots .

Spend the rest of the afternoon at Ghajn Tuffieha Beach or Golden Bay Beach. These two adjacent beaches are considered some of the best in Malta and feature calm blue water, soft sand and beautiful scenery. Ghajn Tuffieha Bay is less developed and perhaps a little quieter than Golden Bay but you can expect both of them to get quite busy in the summer.

Day 5: Gozo

On Day 5 of this Malta itinerary, head to Gozo, the second-largest island in the Maltese archipelago. Ferries to Gozo depart every 45 minutes from Cirkewwa and the journey takes around 25 minutes. You only have to pay on the way back to the main island.

Although many people visit Gozo on a day trip, I think it’s definitely worth spending a night here because there’s a lot to see.

One of the coolest places in Gozo is the Tal-Mixta Cave. It is situated up in the hills on the eastern coast of the island and offers a spectacular view of Ramla Bay, one of the best beaches in Gozo. 

As the cave tends to get pretty crowded, arrive early if you want to have it to yourself and get some nice photos. When you’re done admiring the view, drive down to Ramla Beach to enjoy the beautiful orange sand and crystal clear sea.

Another place you shouldn’t miss is the 350-year-old Xwejni Salt Pans which are still used by the locals to harvest salt. Here you’ll find some interesting rock formations and a chequerboard of salt pans spanning several kilometers along the rugged coast.

If you have time, visit also the magnificent Ta’ Pinu Church and Inland Sea, a small lagoon surrounded by cliffs and cute fisherman huts. Other interesting spots that I would’ve loved to visit but didn’t have time for are Wied il-Ghasri sea canyon, Wied il-Mielaħ Window and Ta’ Cenc cliffs.

Spend the night in Gozo. I recommend staying in or near Victoria, the capital of the island.

MID-RANGE: Casa Gemelli Boutique Guesthouse Situated in the center of Victoria, this guesthouse features colorful traditionally-decorated rooms, some with a view of the citadel of Victoria. Also, their breakfast is supposed to be exceptional.

MID-RANGE: Quaint Hotel Xewkija We spent one night in this boutique hotel and really loved our stay in the beautiful spacious suite with a jacuzzi. The best part though was the breathtaking view of the Church of Saint John the Baptist from our terrace. Make sure to book a room that faces the square!

Day 6: Comino and the Blue Lagoon

The sixth day of this Malta itinerary is all about exploring the island of Comino. 

This car-free and virtually uninhabited island can be reached by a short boat ride either from Gozo (Mgarr harbor) or from Malta (Cirkewwa harbor). Alternatively, you could opt for a proper guided boat excursion which stops at several points of interest along the coast and you’ll have access to toilets, a cafeteria, a water slide etc. 

For a more tranquil experience, you can also charter a private boat with a skipper and discover the treasures of Comino at your own pace.

The main reason for visiting Comino is to see the incredible Blue Lagoon. This sheltered cove is a paradise-like place with the most vibrant turquoise water. I was completely awestruck by its beauty when we arrived! I think it’s safe to say that this is some of the bluest water you can find in Europe. (But it might not beat the beaches in Milos Island in Greece!) 

Here you can go swimming, snorkeling and sip tropical cocktails served at the beachside bars. Make sure to drop by the Crystal Lagoon as well, which is another amazing spot with dazzling water but fewer crowds. You can also walk around the island to visit the Saint Mary’s Tower, Santa Marija Bay and San Niklaw Bay.

In the summer season, the Blue Lagoon gets extremely busy so it’s best to arrive early. Despite its popularity, seeing the Blue Lagoon was the absolute highlight of my 7 days in Malta. It’s a place you simply can’t miss when you’re visiting Malta!

Return to the main island of Malta and spend the night in Mellieha.

MID-RANGE: Solana Hotel & Spa We spent one night in this stylish 4-star hotel. They have newly renovated rooms, two restaurants, a spa with a heated pool and also a rooftop pool overlooking the city.

Day 7: Mellieha

Wrap up your week in Malta with a relaxing day at Mellieha. 

This little resort town is home to Ghadira Bay, the largest sandy beach in Malta. Spend your day sunbathing on its soft sands and swimming in the shallow crystalline water. You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas and there’s a handful of cafes along the beach as well.

If lounging on the beach all day is not your cup of tea, you can choose from a variety of water activities at Ghadira Bay such as windsurfing, kite surfing, water skiing, SUP, snorkeling and kayaking.

7-day Malta itinerary map

On this map, you can find the locations of all the stops included in this 7-day Malta itinerary. Click on the top left corner of the map for more details.

Have more than a week in Malta?

If you have more than a week in Malta, you can discover some hidden gems and get to know the island’s history on an even deeper level. 

Those interested in archaeological sites should visit the UNESCO-listed Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, Hagar Qim Temple and the Ggantija Temples, which are older than the Egyptian pyramids.

If you’d like to take a walk through beautiful lush nature, add the Buskett Gardens, San Anton Gardens or Palazzo Parisio to your Malta itinerary. And if you’re up for seeing some more fabulous beaches, consider visiting Paradise Bay, Armier Bay Beach, Pretty Beach and Qawra Point Beach.

Malta is also well connected to the island of Sicily with ferry crossings several times a week. The journey takes between 1.5 hours and 3 hours depending on the route you take. Have a look at my Sicily itinerary to get inspired!

Malta itinerary: final thoughts

This was my recommended Malta itinerary for 7 days! As you can see, there’s no shortage of amazing places to explore on this little Mediterranean island and even in a short amount of time you can experience a lot.

If you have any questions about the itinerary or recommendations on other places to visit in Malta, let me know in the comments.

Thinking about visiting other Mediterranean destinations as well? Then take a look at my following travel guides:

• Milos Island, Greece
• Antiparos Island, Greece
• Mallorca itinerary
• 7-day Sicily itinerary
• Most beautiful places in Slovenia
• 7-day itinerary for Algarve, Portugal

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Hi! Thanks so much for this. I will be going solo as a female and thinking of staying in Valetta the whole time and doing day excursions. Do you think this is ok – that I can get to all these places even without the car? Thanks so much!!

Hi Mary! You’re welcome! 🙂 You will be able to visit the vast majority of these places without a car but it will take you longer time to get from one place to another. Probably the easiest way for you would be to take the hop-on-hop-off bus that I suggested in the article. In Gozo it might be a bit more difficult to get around by buses since the island is less developed but you can always hire a cab there.

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The Perfect 4-Day Malta Itinerary (Don’t Miss Our Secret Spot!)

With only four days to spend in one of the world’s most spectacular and diverse countries, it is not surprising at all that you are very confused about where to go. Planning your Malta itinerary is not simple, with so many great places to see. You are overwhelmed with the anticipation of yet another adventure. But limited with time and many choices. We have been there!

In that case, let us help you and let us take you on an amazing four-day trip to one of the pearls of the Mediterranean, Malta. To help you sail easily through these funny, busy, and exciting days, we have for you the ultimate 4-day itinerary for Malta with everything you need to see. There you go!

What Facts to Know about Malta?

Malta is a romantic spot where the East and the West embrace each other. The country is a great choice at any time of the year. Especially in Winter !

View of Valletta – From Sliema

It is easily accessible by air from all major airports in Europe. Malta offers so much to see and do with extraordinarily sunny weather, attractive beaches, more than 7,000 years of intriguing history, great nightlife, and numerous outdoor activities. 

Our main goal is to give the four days of the best Malta can offer.

Where is Malta located?

Okay, this could be obvious for people living in Africa or in Europe, but it is something with knowing for other people around the globe. Located in the Mediterranean Sea, Malta is home to about half a million people on only 316 square km.

At the same time, it is also one of the most densely populated European countries. It consists of several islands and islets only 93 km away from Sicily and 360 km from the African coast.

At this amazing azure archipelago, only the three of the largest islands are inhabited; Malta, Gozo, and Comino.

Malta Has Such a Rich History!

You should note that Malta is primarily a historical place delighting visitors with its appearance. With every step you make, you can see and feel the traces of past times and lives.

If you like medieval castles, some of the oldest buildings in the entire world, numerous chapels standing along the road, then Malta, often called an open-air museum, is the right place for you!

Malta has a rich history dating back to the Stone Age. History lovers will for sure have a blast in Malta and the opportunity to visit the preserved temples, of which some are older even than the Egyptian pyramids. Some historical studies have a strong proof for this statement.

Malta is a Rare Place for Several Civilizations Succession

Over the centuries, Malta was conquered several times for different causes and by different people who all loved to call the tiny island their own. The first of them was the Phoenicians, who brought their own customs and habits. The amazing colorful “luzzu” boats that you can still see today in Malta are a legacy of the Phoenician period too.

They were followed by the Carthaginians , Romans , and finally, the Arabs, who remained on the island for more than 300 years, exerting power. Nowadays, you can still strongly feel the influence on the formation of the Maltese language and culture.

In the middle ages, Malta became a safe home for the Knights of Jerusalem, better known as the Order of the Knights of Malta. On his way to Egypt, Napoleon was the next conqueror, annexing Malta to France, after whose very short reign, Malta voluntarily became a British colony.

Despite so many different influences throughout history, the people of Malta managed to maintain their own customs, language, and, more than anything else, a very distinctive temperament.

How to Get to Malta

Malta is easily accessible by air and has an excellent international airport . The state-owned Air Malta flies to more than 65 major airports in Europe and North Africa and the Middle East. Other airlines also have frequent scheduled flights to Malta.

The island of Malta is very often a part of the cruise trips itineraries serving as the transfer base for Mediterranean cruising. With only about a 2-hour ride, you can reach Malta by a direct ferry line from Sicily.

This option is great you can combine your Malta trip with a rich Sicily itinerary .

The Best Way to Get Around in Malta

For your 4-day trip to Malta, we definitely recommend renting a car . You will not really need it in Valetta as pretty much everything is within walking distance, but the car will be very convenient and useful on other days. With a car, you will save yourself a lot of time and be able to see a lot more things.

Our Malta 4-Day Itinerary

To help you get the most of your four days there, we have divided this ultimate 4-day itinerary into the best Malta has to offer.

Day 1: Valetta

Plan your first day for Valetta, the capital of Malta ! With only about 7,000 inhabitants, it may be one of the smallest European capitals, but it is certainly one of the most interesting ones too. Valetta will delight you with its imposing walls, scouts, buildings, and beautiful palaces.

The entire city is protected by a series of ramparts and fortifications dating back to the 16th century when they were built with one purpose only – a defense system against Turkish invaders. Valetta offers an impressive number of historic sites for lovers of architecture, especially the sacral one.

There are so many churches in Malta. They are 365, one for each day of the year. It is not surprising as the country is almost entirely Catholic and religious.

The entire town is under the protection of UNESCO.

Hang Out with a Dghajsi

We would like to recommend you start the day with a ride in “Dghajsi,” a very traditional Maltese taxi-boat. It is certainly the best way to see the city from the former conquerors’ exact perspective and get the best view of the great city walls. But, unfortunately, there are not too many boats left nowadays; those still riding are located in Valetta and Birg.

This interesting half-hour tour of the Grand harbor will bring you closer to the cruisers and the local fishermen.

Explore the Barracks Gardens

Upon return to the mainland, the next place we recommend is the Barracks Gardens offering stunning views of the city and the sea, but the three cities too: Sengle, Vittorious (or Birgu), and Cospicu. All three of these towns have been the center of trade, migration, and cultural goods exchange for centuries.

Enjoy the Amazing Cathedral of St. John

The next step is the Cathedral of St. John, today one of the unavoidable tourist destinations. The interior of the church is one of the finest examples of High Baroque architecture, and the cathedral is home to one of the most famous Caravaggio’s pieces of art.

Inside the church, in the oratory, to be exact, you will be able to see a brutally realistic depiction of St. John the Baptist’s decapitation, which is occupying the majority of the inner wall.

Numerous small chapels within are each a reflection of the different “langues” of the Maltese knights who came from many European countries, with the most prominent one being the chapel of Aragon region, Italy and France.

We strongly recommend visiting the cathedral first thing in the morning to avoid crowds and waiting in lines. You will have to cover your legs and shoulder with a shawl provided at the entrance. For the ladies, no high heels are allowed! We are serious; they can damage the floor tiles. More info on your visit to the cathedral can be found on their official page .

Have a Walk on Republic Street and Palace Square

After the Co-cathedral, take a walk down Republic Street to explore the area around Palace Square and the Grand Master’s Palace. Those are certainly the most magnificent buildings in Valetta, accompanied by numerous shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Part of that building is today used as one of the Government’s seats and the Presidential Office. The rest of the building is turned into a museum and is open to the public.

After sightseeing, we recommend you take a break at Caffe Cordina, a famous café opened way back in 1837 serving the typical “Kwareimal,” a traditional Maltese pastry eaten mainly during Lent. A street food tour in Valletta is also worth it if you are a foodie (me too!)

Where to stay in Valetta

Tano’s Boutique guest house : this hotel located in the very heart of Valetta is definitely the best value for the money. It is very close to all of the best sights to visit. The rooms are bright and spacious, starting at affordable 100 euro per night for a double room.

Grand Harbor Hotel: located in the heart of downtown Valetta and just a few steps away from the Barraka Gardens, this is a great hotel with beautiful traditional architecture. Standard double room starts at 90 euro per night and is worth every cent; the view of Three Cities and the sea is magnificent.

Day 2: Mdina, Mellieha and the Popeye Village

There we go with day 2!

Get Lost in Mdina

4000 years of history in a small hilltop village that is exactly what Mdina is. Located only about 20 km from Valetta, Mdina is the former capital of Malta. Also known as the Citadel, the city’s greatest influence comes from the Arab culture and can mostly be seen from a city plan made in the shape of a labyrinth.

When you walk through the main baroque city door built-in 1724, be prepared to leave the modern 21st century behind you. Keep in mind that the only cars allowed there are those of Mdina residents, and even the street signs are engraved on porcelain plates.

Must visit are the bastions of St.John and St. Martin for an amazing view of the fairytale-like surroundings of Mdina.

Mellieha and Popeye Village

We didn’t forget some souvenir shopping for you and Mellieha village is just the true shopping oasis. There you will find a large selection of glass and silver products of which the Maltese are masters, and this is certainly the place where you need to get that special piece of jewelry to remind you of your fabulous Maltese odyssey.

Only 3 km away from the village in Anchor bay awaits yet another adventure. All the movie lovers among you have probably already heard of Popeye Village . A visit to this Maltese attraction is an absolute “must,” especially for families with children who can meet their favorite cartoon characters here.

It is also known under the names of Sweethaven Village or the Danish village. In reality, it is a village built for a movie set, now turned into an open-air museum and a small amusement park.

One of the most important attractions is the popular “Take 2 filming”, an event where you can participate in the daily shooting and become an actor in a live-action film.

In Sweethaven, in addition to meeting characters such as Popeye, Oliva, and Badjo, you can also enjoy rides, participate in a puppet show, face painting, balloon modeling, play mini-golf, taste wine, visit the museum, and much more.

Depending on the season, Sweethaven offers other attractive activities such as water trampolines and boat rides in Anchor bay during the warm summer nights. In addition, the “Toy city” and Christmas parade are popular in the winter months and during the holiday season.

We recommend you to spend the night in Mellieha as it will be easier to reach Gozo, your next step in the itinerary, rather than going back to Valetta.

Where to stay in Mellieha

Radisson Blue Resort & Spa : a great hotel located only a 2-minute walk from the sandy beach, with great double rooms with a balcony overlooking the beach.

Pergola Hotel and Spa : this small hotel located in Mellieha is great for those wishing to prepare their own meals as the rooms are equipped with kitchen amenities, starting at 80 euro per night. The views are great, stretching over the bay, the village, and both Gozo and Comino islands.

Day 4: Gozo and Comino

After the two very busy days, you certainly deserve a day to relax, contemplate and absorb all of the Maltese beauty seen so far. Easily combined and visited in one day, Gozo and Comino islands are the next destinations we are sending you to explore. We recommend a morning in Gozo and a relaxing afternoon on Comino.

Gozo is the second-largest island in Malta and is often called Malta’s little sister. This Magnificent Island you can easily reach by ferry departing from Cirkewwe in Malta. The most impressive fact is that despite being only 15 km long and 6 km wide, the island is full of the influence of other cultures.

Fresh Start in Gozo!

Gozo Island is filled with idyllic Mediterranean fishing villages and numerous coves. Its pastoral landscape has numerous small hills with small farms leading down to the sandy beaches and coves. This charming destination feels much further from busy Malta, much further than the 8 km of canals separating the two islands.

In Gozo, you will love its calm and sleepy ambiance, but it comes back to life in the summer months and during the holidays and festivity seasons. Stunning places of nature attract many visitors to wild and rugged landscapes and the crystal clear waters ideal for swimming and scuba diving.

Feel the History in the Old Town

Old Town Victoria , a medieval hilltop town or Citadel, is truly one of the most supreme tourist attractions. Surrounded by a sunny Mediterranean landscape of rolling hills and ancient sandstones, this small hilltop town really does look like a miniature version of Jerusalem.

The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta Pinu in Gozo

Walk the city walls, semicircular fortification with three bastions each serving stunning views of the landscape, including the dome of the Xewki Rotonda. If you carry a long-lasting secret wish, we would like to send you to the Ta Pina Basilica, very much known for fulfilling wishes with wreaths.

Check Out Gganti Temples

Gganti Temples from the Late Stone Age, estimated to be more than 5800 years old, are considered to be the oldest existing structure in the world built by man. The entire temple is under UNSECO protection and has only recently been opened to visitors who can wander the nice trails and explore this magnificent construction of megalithic monuments.

After the Citadella and wandering these lovely streets, you can continue to Fortunati Mizzi streets filled with gift shops, coffee shops, and restaurants. That might be a perfect place to have your lunch break and taste some of the famous Maltese meals.

Where and What to eat on Gozo

Even though it is believed that Malta is one of the rare countries that does not have national cuisine, it cannot be less true. Instead, Maltese cuisine is a combination of traditional islands specialties and cuisines of different numerous conquerors throughout history, each of whom left “one special plate” for the generations to come.

We definitely recommend traditional Maltese meals; Pastizzi, Lampuki Pie, and Stuffat Tal-Fenek .

Rizzles Caffe , located at the St. Francis square, is a good choice with a wide selection of traditional meals at very affordable prices.

Ramla Beach and Calypso Cave

Ramla beach is one of the most famous beaches in Malta. It is known for its really unusual reddish color of the sand and spaciousness providing a real top-notch ambiance.

The disadvantage to some, a huge advantage to others may be the approach to the water due to the long shallows and huge rock overgrown with grass. If, in the end, you wish more from the place than spending the time on the beach alone, we have more!

Calypso Cave

In the vicinity of the beach is a small cave named Calypso cave and believed to have been a place where Calypso imprisoned Odysseus for seven years. Although only a few can access the cave, you can easily see it from a landscaped viewpoint on which the whole story from Homer’s Odyssey was written.

The nearby village of Gharb has a worth visiting Museum of Folk Art, which houses some of the most fascinating objects found on this small island.

Wied Il Ghaasri

If you are a snorkeling lover, you will find your own paradise in Wied Il Ghasri , probably the best snorkeling site in the entire archipelago, where the deep notch in the shore allows the observation of an amazing underwater world at relatively shallow depths.

This is the true heaven for observing seahorses, fish, and numerous other organisms characteristic for underwater cuts and caves.

On your way to Comino

Comino has only four permanent residents who truly enjoy their isolation and total peace and quiet. Yet, they are able to meet all of their needs as everything they need is easily acquired from a neighboring Gozo.

As the name alone suggests, the island was named after the cumin that grew all over the island. However,  Comino today is known mostly for its unique nature, clear waters and recognizable bird sanctuary, and protected area of nature.

The Blue Lagoon in Comino

Comino is truly a place where nature has taken the lead, completely relaxed, showing all those who have an interest the best of its natural beauty.

The Unavoidable Blue Lagon

The Blue Lagoon is certainly the most visited part of the island and a very attractive spot for tourists. Located between Comino and the small islet of Cominotto, Blue Lagoon is a cove between these archipelagos, forming a stunning picture of nature’s fine art.

Comino is also a diving paradise; the coast consists mostly of cliffs. However, there are numerous deep caves used by pirates in the Middle Ages to attack ships sailing between Malta and Gozo.

Comino Island has put its entire emphasis on mystical feeling and total isolation, meaning that it is also known what exact types of tourists are wanted in the area.

Those who are fans of cafes, bars, and restaurants will not be too happy, while those who want their own peace and opportunity to be in complete harmony with nature will find their own little heaven here.

Where to stay in Comino

Comino Hotel and Bungalows: the location, the views, quality of sleep, and affordable rooms are all the benefits of this nice hotel. Prices start from 75 euro per night, bungalows are equipped with kitchen amenities.

Ferrieha Farmhouse B&B : large and spacious farmhouse with typical Maltese charm and hospitality and fine cuisine. An excellent spot to navigate around the island. Room prices start from 80 euro per night.

The last, fourth day of this amazing trip is ahead of you; the easiest and fastest way to reach Marsaxlokk from Comino is by car in only about 45 minutes or by ferry.

Day 4: Birzebbugia, Marsaxlokk, Dingi and Blue Grotto

For your last day, you should get back to Valetta. We recommend a combination of archeology, relaxation, and a touch of hedonism.

Discover Birzebbugia

About only 13 km from Valetta is the small town of Birzebbugia, a pretty seaside town, popular for great and important archeological sites, such as Ghar Dalam and Borg in Nadur. The best beaches are here too, and the Pretty Bay is very popular among both locals and visitors.

Even if you have difficulties pronouncing the name of the village as we did, it is not a reason to skip it from your itinerary! Marsaxlokk it is!

Pass by the Beautiful Marsaxlokk

The tiny village of Marsaxlokk is probably the only village in Malta that has survived globalization and managed to maintain a very traditional and indigenous Maltese way of life.

Marsaxlokk has one thing making it world-famous; its special and colorful boat called “luzzu,” which fishermen still use on their daily fishing trips today.

There are, in fact, more boats than ships, in most cases with very specific blue, yellow and green colors. Some of them have drawn eyes on the front for one reason only; a bit superstitious Maltese people believe it will keep them safe from spells on the sea.

If you are keen on fish specialties, then this is the place for you. The fish is always fresh and much more affordable than in Valetta.

Where to eat in Marsaxlokk for Lunch?

Tartarun : on the upmarket and loved among the locals, probably one of the best fish restaurants in town.

Terrone : local and seasonal is the philosophy of this restaurant. The interior is very chic with colorful tiles, outside terrace with a great view of the boats. Fish dishes, tuna, kingfish Carpaccio, or grilled octopus are just some of their specialties.

A fresh Swim in St. Peter’s Pool

You may choose to go to St. Peter’s pool in the afternoon , located only about a 10-minute drive from Marsaxlokk. It is yet another natural attraction, a natural pool you can jump in from the rocks.

This is a very famous spot among young people, however not recommended for families with children as the only access to the water is by jumping.

Dingli Cliffs

Malta is an amazingly beautiful country packed full of beautiful landscapes. That includes stunning panoramic coastal views, so make sure to head to the Dingli Cliffs . Located on Malta’s western coast, this 253 meters above sea-level wonder of nature is also the highest part of the Island.

The cliffs became a very popular attraction for tourists visiting Malta, especially those heading there for a peaceful walk with breathtaking views of Filfa and the Mediterranean Sea, but the stretches of the countryside beneath the cliffs and terraced fields too.

The main attraction of the Dingli Cliffs is, of course, the cliffs themselves, but there is also a tiny and charming chapel perched on the very edge, dedicated to St Mary Magdalene.

Things to Know About Malta Before You Go

Malta, for sure, is one of those destinations offering you an escape to winter swimming. Yet, it is ideal as an autumn destination. The sea is still warm, but the crowds are fewer.

The only crowds you can actually meet at this time are the cars in the cities, and we mean a lot of cars! It is believed that there are as many cars as there are inhabitants! So to follow our Ultimate 4-day itinerary, you can rent a car. But keep in mind that it means potential parking problems too.

In addition, from the British, besides the official language, Malta has also inherited driving on the left side of the road , which may be challenging (at least the first hours of driving) for those experiencing it for the first time. However, we have a solution for this too; the Maltese public transport is excellent and cheap and will get you easily to all of the island’s gems.

There will be a lot of noise! The famous Lord Byron himself is said to have called Malta the island of yells, bells, and smells. Yet, the sound plays an important role on the island, and you will for sure get used to it in no time. The mix of local fiestas, village band marches, and fireworks will transform your evenings into special and lasting memories.

Final Thought about Our 4-Day Malta Itinerary

We have hopefully helped you realize that Malta is truly a destination that everyone should visit with this itinerary. However, this journey could be a little too fast for some travelers, especially for those chasing Malta Instagram spots ! We recommend adding a day in Malta than jumping directly into the most interesting spots.

Although very small, Malta is full of tradition and culture, and almost the entire history of Europe is reflected here. However, globalization, so many newcomers, and a very liberalized economy made Malta the financial hub, all of which makes it difficult to reach the authentic Maltese soul.

Still, you are there just because Malta promises to offer you an adventurous and festive holiday with a true feeling of satisfaction, delicate, fine joy, and lifetime lasting memorable (un)bearable lightness of being of amazing Malta.

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Achraf is the cofounder of Walk Beside Me Blog. He is an expert traveler who spent 10+ years exploring 70+ countries around the world. Thanks to his passion for writing and photography, he could document his journey on 100+ blog posts on Walk Beside Me where he shared all his knowledge, expertise, and advice for like-minded travelers.

23 Amazing Instagram Spots in Malta (+ Exact Locations!)

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TOUR MALTA 2024 - VIAGGI MALTA ORGANIZZATI

Una selezione di  Tour Malta 2024  alla scoperta dell’isola dei Cavalieri. Fenici, Cartaginesi, Arabi hanno lasciato le loro tracce in questo magnifico arcipelago al centro del Mediterraneo . Malta è uno scrigno di tesori naturalistici, culturali ed archeologici ancora tutto da scoprire. Dunque con Arché Travel andrete alla scoperta della storia di Malta e di Gozo grazie a Tour Malta di Gruppo che vi permetteranno di interagire con un popolo dal carattere forte e fiero, nel cuore del Mediterraneo e della nostra cultura.

Il Tuo Tour Operator Malta

Arché Travel, tra i migliori Tour Operator Malta , propone un’attenta selezione di Viaggi organizzati a Malta. Grazie alla nostra consolidata esperienza nell'organizzazione di viaggi a Malta, ci avvaliamo solo dei migliori corrispondenti di viaggio. Questo renderà il vostro viaggio a Malta sicuro ed indimenticabile, con la consapevolezza di avere al vostro fianco un partner di viaggio esperto del territorio maltese, che vi seguirà dalla pianificazione sino al rientro.

Viaggi Organizzati a Malta

I nostri Tour e Viaggi a Malta 2024 vi porteranno alla scoperta dei luoghi più suggestivi dell’isola. Dalla capitale Valletta alle magnifiche isolette di Gozo e Comino , esploreremo in lungo e in largo le bellezze dell’arcipelago maltese. Inoltre, durante il viaggio a Malta potremo ammirare gli splendidi siti archeologici di Hagar Qim e Ggantija e l’antichissima storia di M’dina . Dunque, la nostra proposta di di viaggi organizzati Malta vi porterà alla scoperta del vero volto di questo magnifico paese a cavallo tra Europa ed Africa tra storia, natura e cultura.

Viaggi di Gruppo Organizzati a Malta

Arché Travel tra i migliori  Tour Operator Malta  vi porta nel cuore del Mediterraneo proponendo un catalogo di Tour e Viaggi Malta di gruppo. Infatti, grazie alla nostra pluriennale esperienza, abbinata ad una forte passione per il mare nostrum, ci permette di realizzare  il tuo viaggio culturale a Malta . Inoltre, grazie alla collaborazione con i migliori fornitori locali con una profonda conoscenza del territorio, affiderete il vostro viaggio a Malta ad esperto con la certezza di viaggi di qualità e in piena sicurezza.

Le Parole dei Nostri Viaggiatori a Malta e in Europa

Tour malta in evidenza, gran tour malta, tour malta 2024 di gruppo.

"Tour Malta 2024" , una selezione di viaggi Malta organizzati di gruppo alla scoperta dei luoghi più significativi. - Viaggi di Gruppo in Malta d'Autore -

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4 Day Malta Itinerary & Travel Guide

Updated March 2024 ,  The 4 Day Malta Itinerary & Travel Guide was originally written in January 2019

On a whim, I booked a ticket to Malta while I was in  Italy  last fall (2018). Truth be told, Malta has never been on my radar. I had recently returned from a trip to  Lampedusa  and absolutely loved it there, so figured why not go check out nearby Malta?

It was a nice break from Italy, compact and with an easy bus system (if you’ve read many of my last few end-of-month posts you’ll probably recall my lamenting of the stupid bus ticket system in Lazio).

With that said, I didn’t fall in love with Malta. No, nothing bad happened, the weather was nice, and I packed in plenty in my 4 days. I don’t even have anything negative to say about Malta, it just wasn’t my cup of tea, that’s all. Also, be warned: I’ve never seen a single episode of Game of Thrones, so no, I didn’t set out to visit any of the sites made famous by the franchise.

So if you wanna visit Malta and see the best of the island, continue on for a 4 day Malta itinerary based on my recent trip. I also recommend purchasing a copy of Bradt’s Malta and Gozo Guidebook to kickstart your Malta travel plans.

Shop flights to Malta on  Skyscanner

Need Travel Insurance and Evacuation Services for Malta?

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The Adventures of Nicole partners with Global Rescue to offer the world’s leading medical evacuation and security advisory services. To travel with peace of mind, shop evacuation coverage at Global Rescue .

Malta Quick Info

• Language:  Maltese & English, though Italian is widely spoken and understood
• Currency:  Euro
• Drives on:  Left
• Best Time To Visit:  Summer (June-September) is boiling hot, most crowded, and most expensive. Fall (October, November) is great with comfortable temperatures and smaller crowds, and prices coming down. Winter (December-February) can be chilly but prices are at rock bottom (aside from Christmas and New Year weeks). Finally, springtime (March-May) is another great time to visit, with warming temps, prices similar to fall, and the crowds gradually coming back.

Getting Around Malta

• The easiest way to get around Malta is by public bus. They’re cheap and (mostly) efficient (they can run behind at times, or be full at rush hour). A ticket will set you back 1.25€. Tickets are good for 2 hours (meaning you can hop on/off any number of buses within that 2 hour window), and are payable in cash to the driver on the bus.
• The only exception are night buses which cost 3€ per journey. Their route numbers will begin with an ‘N’.
• For those headed to Malta for a week or that plan to use the bus extensively, grab an Unlimited 7 Day Tallinja Pass for 21€. Available at the airport.
• For more on routes and timetables  click here , and to download the Tallinja App (with bus routes and timetables)  click here .
• Gozo Channel Ferries connect the islands of Malta & Gozo. The ferry docks in Cirkewwa on Malta and in Mgarr in Gozo. Tickets are €4.65, return.  Click here  for the Cirkewwa-Mgarr ferry timetable. You will see men ushering you along and asking where you are going when you get off the bus. If you say Gozo they will direct you to the ferry terminal (don’t worry, they’re not trying to sell you anything).
• Comino Ferries Co-Op connects Malta to Comino, and Comino to Gozo. Tickets are €10 for a two-way ticket. Small ferries go between Cirkewwa Jetty near the ferry terminal in Malta, Blue Lagoon in Comino, and Mgarr in Gozo. Click here for the  schedule . The same men mentioned before will direct you to the Comino Ferry booth if you say Blue Lagoon.
• Ferries connect different parts of Valletta and Sliema as well. Tickets are €1.50 one way and €2.80 return.  Click here  for the Valletta-Sliema ferry timetable.
• Small boats depart the jetty at Zurrieq for tours of the Blue Grotto and neighboring sea caves. Tickets are €8 per person, and boats depart when full.
• For those that want ultimate freedom, you can rent a car on your trip to Malta. Be warned: streets in towns and cities are incredibly narrow.  Check Holiday Autos for the best deals on rental cars in Malta!

Where To Stay

Of course, you can essentially stay anywhere in Malta, but the most common options with the most variety will be Valletta, St Julien’s, and Sliema.

Staying in Valletta will make transport a breeze but prices tend to be a bit higher.

Search Valletta hotels  Booking.com  &  Hotels.com

St Julien’s has the most in way of cheap backpacker hangouts and buzzing nightlife (especially the Paceville area). I opted to stay at  Inhawi Boutique Hostel with clean rooms, a friendly and helpful staff, and plenty of restaurants and bars right outside the door. St Julien’s is a good choice for those relying on bus transport, but many longer distance trips will require a stop in Valletta to change buses.

Book St Julien’s accommodations  Booking.com  &  Hotels.com

Sliema, located between St Julien’s and Valletta is another great option for lodging and is well-connected with the public bus system. Sliema and St Julien’s are about a 15 minute walk from one another.

Shop Sliema hotels on  Booking.com  &  Hotels.com

What To Eat

Maltese cuisine has influences from several other cultures thanks to its key position in the Mediterranean. Most noticeable will be Sicilian and English, followed by Spanish, French, Mediterranean, and Maghrebin. With that said, beyond Pastizzi, Maltese dishes can be tricky to find in restaurants. Italian, Kebab, and global fast-food chains are everywhere in Malta.

For traditional Maltese cuisine try  Nenu The Artisan Baker  and Ta’ Kris. For good and cheap pastizzi head to the small walk-up pastizzeria in St Julien’s on the corner of St George Street & Ross Street across from Ross Park.

Maltese Dishes To Try

• Stuffat Tal-Fenek:  A Maltese rabbit stew. The national dish.
• Pastizzi:  Delicious little flakey fried savory pastries, typically stuffed with ricotta or mashed peas. Can be found at walk-up shops on the streets. Perfect for backpackers as a Pastizzi costs about .30¢.
• Kawlata:  A vegetable soup.
• Ftira Ghawdxoja:  A flatbread stuffed or topped with Gbejniet (a sheep-milk cheese native to Gozo) and potatoes.
• Lampuki Pie:  Pies filled with Lampuki fish, potatoes, spinach, capers, mint, and olive oil.

4 Day Malta Itinerary

Day 1 Valletta, Mdina, Rabat & Dingli Cliffs

Day 2 Blue Lagoon & Gozo

Day 3 Blue Grotto, Birzebbugia, Marsaxlokk

Day 4 Ghajn Tuffieha & The Three Cities

Day 1: Valletta, Mdina, Rabat & Dingli Cliffs

Welcome to the compact capital of Malta! Valletta is home to elaborate Baroque architecture thanks to the order of St. John following the Siege of 1565. Some of you may need an entire day or more in Valletta to really appreciate it, while others (like me) are happy making a quick lap around it looking at the architecture.

A few things to see in Valletta are the Auberge de Castille, Fort St. Elmo & the War Museum, St. Augustine Parish Church, Grand Master’s Palace, St. John’s Co-Cathedral (€10 to enter), The Upper Barracca Gardens, and Manoel Theater. For history buffs– don’t miss The  Malta Experience , an audio-visual show that covers Malta’s 7,000 year history (€16 per person).

If you’re going to Valletta from the Airport take bus X3  to Valletta, Bus  X2 will take you from the Airport to St Julien’s

Not keen on exploring on your own?  Check out this Valletta walking tour .

Mdina is an ancient city and was at one point in time the capital of Malta. Some could opt to spend 2-4 hours exploring both Mdina & Rabat (they’re walking distance from one another), while others will be happy to make a quick trip to walk through each town and move on.

Sites to see in Mdina are the Mdina Gate, St Paul’s Cathedral & Museum, the Municipal Palace, Banca Giuratale, and Mdina’s beautiful Palazzos. History buffs should jump for the  Mdina Experience  (€6).

As Mdina and Rabat sit side-by-side and walking distance apart you should visit both together. Check out this Mdina and Rabat walking tour to learn more about the history and culture of both ancient cities.

From Valletta take bus 51, 52, 53, or 56 to reach Mdina.  The journey will take about 30 minutes each way. The bus does continue onto Rabat, so it’s totally possible to visit Rabat first if you so choose.

A short 5 minute walk from Mdina brings you to ancient Rabat. The main sites in Rabat are St Agatha’s and St Paul’s Catacombs (€5).

From Rabat take bus 207 and get off at the Dingli Cliffs stop .

Take the work out of your visit and book this  Mdina, Rabat, Dingli & Mosta day tour from Valletta

Dingli Cliffs

For your first sunset in Malta, head to the Dingli Cliffs for the best sundown views on the island.

Back to Valletta, you can either take bus 207 to the Airport  and then switch for bus X3 to Valletta, or bus X2 or TD2 for those headed back to St Julien’s. If you don’t mind a 2 km walk from the cliffs,  walk back to Dingli Village and hop on bus 52 or 56  bound for Valletta.

Want To Explore Malta Island without figuring out public buses?  Click here  to pick up your Malta Hop On Hop Off Bus ticket

Day 2: Comino & Gozo

Blue Lagoon

Malta’s Blue Lagoon is one of the country’s most famous tourist draws. This lagoon and tiny beach on Comino has some of the clearest waters you’ll find in the Mediterranean. It’s easy to see why everyone flocks here. 

Do be warned:  Get here as early as possible (the earliest ferry from Cirkewwa departs at 9 am). This place gets extremely crowded and there’s only a handful of beach chairs available for rent on the beach, otherwise, plan to lay out your towel on a rock.

There are lockers available for rent for €5 if you’d like to lock up valuables while splashing in the Blue Lagoon. Enjoy a short tour of Comino’s grotto-laden coastline on the way over from Cirkewwa on the Comino Ferry Co-Op boat.

From St Julien’s and Sliema hop on bus 222  to Cirkewwa and then from Cirkewwa take the  Comino Ferries Co-Op  boat to Blue Lagoon (€10 per person for a two-way ticket).

From Valletta take bus 41 or 42  to Cirkewwa and then from Cirkewwa take the Comino Ferries Co-Op boat to Blue Lagoon.

There’s more to Comino than just the Blue Lagoon! Comino was named after the cumin that once grew wild on the island. A few sites to see on Comino include St Mary’s Tower, St Nicolas Bay, Santa Maria Bay, and St Mary’s Battery. For more intrepid travelers who like a little seclusion, there is a campground at Santa Maria Bay, just a short walk back from the beach.

From Comino, you can catch the Comino Ferries Co-Op  Boat to Mgarr in Gozo (or back to Cirkewwa).

Make it easy! Book this  €28 Comino & Blue Lagoon Day Cruise , including hotel pick-up!

The island is believed to be the legendary Calypso from Homer’s Odyssey, and home to the oldest megalithic temples in Malta (Ggantija Temples). Some may opt to devote an entire day to touring Gozo while others will do like I did and pair it with a trip to Comino.

You have two options for getting around Gozo: either buy the Hop On/Hop Off Bus (€18 per person- you’ll see tickets being sold right outside the ferry terminal) or by using the public bus. I opted for the public bus option as I wasn’t going to make complete use of the entire Hop On/Off route, but the Hop On/Off Bus does have the advantage of an audio guide.

Notable things to see on Gozo are Xewkija Church, Xlendi Bay, Dwerja Bay & The Inland Sea (this is also the stop where the Azure Window once stood until its collapse in 2017, don’t worry the natural rock pool is still there and still beautiful), Ggantija Temples, and Ramla Bay.

For those traveling by public bus on Gozo  you can find all the Gozo bus routes and schedules on  this page , just scroll to the bottom.

The Gozo Channel Ferry  (€4.65 return, no one-way tickets sold) runs all throughout the day and late in the evening. Note that the last buses from Cirkewwa bound for St Julien’s (222), and Valletta (41 & 42) depart at 9:30 pm, so make sure you give yourself enough time! The ferry takes about 30 minutes for the crossing.

Check out this  full day Gozo tour from Malta

Wanna do Gozo & Comino in 1 day without the hassles? Click here to check out this  Gozo & Comino tour

Day 3: Blue Grotto, Birzebbugia & Marsaxlokk

Blue Grotto

The Blue Grotto is a massive and beautiful sea cave on Malta’s southern shore. The Grotto can be seen from a viewpoint on top of the cliff where buses drop you off, but for the best views hop on one of the small boats that leave from the jetty in Zurrieq to take a ride through the grotto and to explore nearby caves (€8 per person).

From Valletta buses 73 & 74  will take you to Zurrieq.

Check out this  half-day tour of Blue Grotto & Marsaxlokk from Valletta

To Birzebuggia from Zurrieq take bus 73  and get off at the Airport and then  take bus X4 to Birzebbugia .

Birzebbugia

Relax on the nice white sand beach here at Birzebbugia for the afternoon after these last couple of chaotic days. There’s not a lot to see in Birzebbugia, and even the beach view is obstructed by industrialization and shipping containers in the distance. If heading to the beach isn’t your thing, go check out the Ghar Dalam Cave or Borg in-Nadur Settlement.

To Marsaxxlok take bus 210  from Birzebbugia.

Marsaxlokk is a quaint fishing village on the southeast shore of Malta. This is a great place to head for sunset for photos of the colorful fishing boats anchored out in the water as the sky changes from blue to orangy-pink hues. Grab a meal of the fresh catch at one of the waterfront cafés here before you head back to Valletta.

To get back to Valletta take bus TD10 or 85  from Marsaxlokk.

Day 4: Ghajn Tuffieha & The Three Cities

Ghajn Tuffieha & Golden Beach

Save the best for last! Ghajn Tuffieha was by far my favorite place in Malta. This is a 4 beach in 1 day kind of day trip.

You’ll start your trek from popular Golden Beach and continue to Ghajn Tuffieha Tower set up on a hill above the water. From there continue walking along the trail to Ghajn Tuffieha Bay Beach where you can go for a swim and enjoy the narrow strip of sand.

After you’ve gotten in a good rest and a swim, continue uphill to the knob-like prominence jutting out into the ocean. From up here, you’ll have great panoramic views of beaches on both sides.

Next, hike downhill to the unnamed beach on the other side of the rocky prominence (take care, as it is steep), where you can opt to relax in the sun and water and then turn back toward the bus stop at Golden Beach or Ghajn Tuffieha, or continue onto Gnejna Bay Beach.

If you continue to Gnejna Bay Beach you will either need to return back to Ghajn Tuffieha or Golden Beach to catch a bus (about 2.3km) or continue onto L-Imgarr to reach a bus stop (about 2.7km).

From Valletta take bus 44  to reach Ghajn Tuffieha.  From San Julien’s take bus 225  to reach Ghajn Tuffieha.

The Three Cities

After you return from Ghajn Tuffieha to Valletta, take a ferry (€1.50) or a private boat (€2) from Valletta to the Three Cities. The names are Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua and are all within walking distance of one another. They have been inhabited since the Middle Ages.

Sites to see in the Three Cities are Fort St Angelo, Fort St Michael, the Grand Harbor, and the Cottonera Lines of Fortification.

Take a ferry or private boat back to Valletta , and then continue back to St Julien’s by bus if you are staying over there. You can also take a ferry to Sliema and walk back to St Julien’s.

Looking for more ideas? Check out  18 things to do in Malta

Alternative Places To Add To Your Malta Itinerary

Popeye Village

Also known as Sweethaven Village, was the purpose-built film set for the 1980 live-action version of Popeye the Sailor. Now it acts as a tourist attraction and resort. Entrance is €11-15 depending on the season, though views of the village from a lookout point nearby are free.

Book a  tour of Popeye Village , including entrance fees

Hal Saflieni Hypogeum

A Neolithic subterranean structure dating back to 3300-3000 BC in the town of Paola. This is a necropolis holding the remains of at least 7,000 people. Guided tours are €35, video experience is €5. Guided tours book up fast, so secure your place at  Heritage Malta .

Dive to the HMS Maori

The most famous World War II wreckage among the many off Malta’s shores. The HMS Maori was sunk by the Germans, sitting at a depth of 14 meters.

Cave Diving in Comino

Comino boasts the best reef and cave diving in Malta. The caves are famous for their shimmering blue luminescence, and keep your eye peeled for octopus and barracuda.

Tarxien Temples

These four temples date back to 3300-2400 BC. The largest temple complex in Malta. Tickets are €6.

Take a  half-day tour of the Tarxien Temples from Valletta

Miriam al-Batool Mosque

Malta’s only official mosque, whose first stones were laid by Libya’s Muammar Ghaddafi in 1978. Located in Paola.

San Anton Gardens

Located in Attard, in the heart of Malta is the San Anton Gardens. Opened to the public in 1882. Stroll around the lush green trees and plants that line the parks many walkways.

Have Any Questions About This 4 Day Malta Itinerary?

Ask your Malta itinerary questions in the comments below!

More Posts from Malta:

18 Best Things To Do In Malta

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Home » Europe » Malta » 15 Things to Do with 4 Days in Malta (And 1 to Skip)

15 Things to Do with 4 Days in Malta (And 1 to Skip)

By Author Laura Longwell

Posted on Last updated: June 21, 2023

Candy-hued balconies against white stone facades, shimmering turquoise waters, cities that are like open-air museums all spiced with the history and flavors of the Mediterranean—this is Malta. Though it is small, the island chain packs a big punch and quickly won a place in our hearts. While we had just 4 days in Malta, we were able to squeeze in a lot of the island’s highlights along with a visit to amazing Gozo. Here are some of the best sites and experiences on our Malta itinerary.

Things to do in Malta in 4 Days

Take in the colors of Marsaxlokk

Marsaxlokk (pronounced marsa-schlock) is all about bright colors, so we made it one of the very first places on our Malta itinerary. Every day, the blue waters of this cute fishing village are filled with traditional Maltese boats called luzzus.

Painted in bright blues, yellows, and green, the luzzus are the centerpiece of the town. The boats range in size from somewhat small to very small (it’s hard to imagine more than 1-2 people can fit in some of them). The considerable fleet provides much of Malta’s seafood.

On Sundays, Marsaxlokk is one of the best places to visit in Malta. Check out the open-air fish market selling the morning’s catch, including swordfish, tuna, and the popular local lampuki (aka mahi mahi).

You can buy straight from the fishermen to cook up later or grab a seat at one of the seaside cafes and enjoy some of their finest seafood with a glass of wine while watching the activity all around. Even if you can’t make it on Sunday, Marsaxlokk is a great place for lunch and enjoying the atmosphere.

Wondering where to stay in Malta? Modern refinement in Valletta: SU29 Luxury near Sliema promenade: Victoria Hotel Quiet comfort in St. Julian’s: Malta Marriott Hotel & Spa You’ll find more details about where to stay in Malta at the end of this article.

Lose yourself in the details at St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valetta

St. John’s Co-Cathedral is a place for people who think they don’t love churches. On an island that is said to have a church for every day of the year, St. John’s Co-Cathedral is more than just a house of worship—it’s a magnificent work of art and one of the top things to see in Malta.

St. John’s Co-Cathedral is also, without a doubt, one of the most ornate churches in the world. Built in the 16th century for the Knights of St. John, every inch of St. John’s Co-Cathedral is covered in marble, gold, paint, or relief. Even the multi-colored floors demand attention.

The church’s audio guide gives plenty of detail and helps direct you through a space that can get quite crowded, especially when river cruises are in port. Don’t miss the oratory which is home to Caravaggio’s largest painting, the Beheading of St. John.

Escape the crowds at Fomm ir-Rih

One of the hardest swimming spots in Malta to reach, Fomm ir-Rih is worth the effort on a nice day. After a 20-minute (somewhat rough) hike downhill, we were deposited on one of the most isolated Malta beaches. In fact, we only saw four other people during our visit, and three of them were from the same family.

The Fomm ir-Rih bay is a great snorkeling spot when winds are calm, and the views from the pebbly beach of the surrounding cliffs are incredible, especially near sunset. If you’re up for the hike, we recommend wearing good shoes like these that are sturdy enough for the climb and that you can also get wet because the slippery stone beach can make getting in and out of the water quite a challenge.

Our visit to Malta was part of a larger trip that included a visit to nearby Sicily. Read more about our week in Sicily.

Try Maltese food

A fascinating mix of Mediterranean flavors with a dash of British and northwest African influence thrown in, Maltese food is flavorful and delicious . The most popular must-try street food is pastizz, a hand-held pastry filled with either mashed peas or ricotta. It’s filling and really cheap at about 40 cents each.

In traditional Maltese restaurants, you’ll find items like rabbit stew, stuffed vegetables, baked macaroni pie, and Gbejniet, a mild sheep or goat’s cheese. Our favorite stop for Maltese food was Gululu , a waterside traditional restaurant in St. Julian. They have a massive menu full of local items, but our favorites were their ftajjar, a Maltese pizza made on typical ftira bread, and kapunata, the Maltese version of ratatouille.

Peek behind the walls of Mdina

The capital of Malta until the 16th century, Mdina is a walled medieval town. Inside the fortification, it seems like all the buildings and structures are the color of sandstone—a stark contrast against the occasional draping of wisteria and bright balconies Malta is known for.

Mdina is imposing and majestic at once and feels like it belongs in another world, or maybe we’ve just been overly influenced by its part as a set for the early Game of Thrones episodes. Its fewer than 300 inhabitants come from long-standing noble families, so its sparse population and relative lack of cars have helped Mdina be referred to as the “Silent City.” It is truly a unique place and was one of the highlights of our 4 days in Malta.

Visitors to Mdina can marvel at its Baroque-style architecture, wander through the town’s charming streets, or visit the beautiful interior of St. Paul’s Cathedral, a tribute to the saint who is said to have shipwrecked on the island. Tourists can also visit the Cathedral Museum, one of the best religious museums in Europe. Don’t miss the panoramic views from Bastion Square.

Explore the history and food of Rabat

Just a few minutes’ walk from Mdina is Rabat. Not to be confused with Rabat/Victoria on Gozo or Rabat, Morocco , Malta’s Rabat is so named because Rabat means “suburb” in Semitic and the city was once a suburb of Mdina. The town is known primarily for St. Paul’s Grotto, a cave where the saint reportedly lived after his shipwreck. It’s also the home of the catacombs of St. Paul and St. Agatha, which were a cemetery during Roman times because the dead could not be buried within the city walls.

The city is a feast for those (like us) in love with Malta’s balconies. For a literal feast, check out the Crystal Palace, which has probably the best pastizzi in Malta. We also loved the bakery kiosk in front of the Collegiate Church of St. Paul, which has a number of traditional pastries, cookies, and candies.

Step back in time at the Megalithic Temples of Malta

The megalithic temple complexes of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra are one of the most ancient sites on Earth and one of the top Malta attractions. Built from 3600-3200BC, they’re older than Stonehenge and Ireland’s passage tomb Newgrange .

A visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site starts with a 3D movie about the temples followed by a self-guided tour of the ruins themselves. You can walk through the rooms and passageways and under the monumental doorways of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra and see the stone furniture and carvings of their builders. Though very little is known about the builders or the purpose of the temples, visiting them is still a fascinating experience.

Swim at Ghar Lapsi

Just up the coast from Hagar Qim, Ghar Lapsi is a natural swimming pool perfect for cooling off on a warm day in Malta. The clear blue and green water is fantastic for snorkeling (lately, we always travel with our own equipment ), and it’s a popular dive site.

The pool is protected from strong waves, and it’s easy to swim out into the open ocean for more snorkeling and exploring. There’s no beach to speak of at Ghar Lapsi—just rocks and a cave to escape the sun, but the beautiful swimming spot has a platform for jumping into the ocean, which is really all you need for a perfect outing. If you can make the time, a stop at Ghar Lapsi is a must do in Malta.

Marvel at the amazing balconies of Malta

There are so many things about the colors and landscape of Malta that are awe-inspiring. One of our favorites was the bright balconies that line many streets in Valletta, Rabat, and beyond. The enclosed balconies are painted in every color of the rainbow from traditional green to brilliant blue to shocking red. It seems like something out of Romeo and Juliet .

The origin of Malta’s balconies is unclear—some sources say they’re a result of the 17th-century Baroque movement while others attribute them to an Arab influence. Whatever the reason, they’re a part of what makes Malta so unique.

Stroll through St. George’s Square in Valletta

City squares in Europe are made for wandering and people-watching. That’s certainly the case with St. George’s Square (aka Palace Square), the largest square in Valletta.

Right in the heart of Malta’s capital city, the square is home to the Grandmasters’ Palace and the Main Guard building. Admire the beauty of the centuries-old buildings, lose yourself in the rhythmic water fountain, or watch the Changing of the Guard in front of the Presidential Palace.

Try the local Maltese brew

The locally brewed Cisk (pronounced Ch-isk) beer is the most popular beer in Malta. The golden lager is light and refreshing—just what you want when it’s hot out.

Hang out in St. Julian’s

Just north of Valletta, St. Julian’s is the center for nightlife. The coastal area is lined with restaurants, cafés, and bars, but there are also plenty of quiet places to get away from the activity, too. During the day, popular activities include relaxing in Ballutta Square, visiting the boatyards in Spinola Bay, wandering the promenade, swimming, and exploring the Spinola Palace.

At night, all the restaurants and bars come alive with tourists and locals, particularly in the Paceville area. Our favorite restaurant in St. Julian’s was Gululu for traditional Maltese fare, and Badass Burgers was a good option for something not Mediterranean. For most places, reservations are probably a good idea during high and shoulder seasons.

Things to do in Gozo

Just a 20-minute ferry ride from Malta, the island of Gozo has spectacular sights and plenty of room to explore. We recommend getting there early, especially if you’re visiting in the summer because it’s one of the top things to do in Malta. This visit to Gozo was just a day trip, but we would love to return and spend a couple of nights—Gozo is worth it. We’ve written even more about things to do in Gozo here .

Visit the Citadel

The hilltop fortress known as the Citadel is one of the top places to visit in Gozo. The area has been inhabited for millennia, but the current incarnation of this walled area of the capital city dates from 1551.

The Citadel is home to several museums and a 500-year-old prison once run by the Knights of St. John, where you can visit the old cells and see centuries’ worth of graffiti from the prisoners. There are also several chapels and the Cathedral of the Assumption, a 17th-century Baroque church, which is impossible to miss.

While the main attractions are worth a stop, the best parts of visiting the Citadel are wandering through its old lanes and taking in the views of Gozo from the fortress walls.

Marvel at Gozo’s salt pans

Just three miles from the Citadel near the village of iz-Zebbug are a group of salt pans cut into the coast. The interlacing pans—some of which date back to Roman times—are still used for harvesting salt from the sea. The combination of the rocky coast, the breaking waves, and salt pan mosaic was one of the most unique things to see in Gozo.

Take a break in Xlendi

The fishing village of Xlendi is a perfect spot for lunch and soaking up the sun in Gozo. The seaside promenade is lined with restaurants and cafés where you can watch fishermen bringing in their catch of the day.

There is a small sandy beach and plenty of points for snorkeling, swimming, or diving in the bay. No matter what, take a few minutes to climb the steps for views of the bright blue water below.

One thing to skip: Dingli Cliffs

I hope it’s clear how much we absolutely loved Malta. But there was one place that left us a bit confused—Dingli Cliffs. On the west coast of Malta near Rabat, Dingli is one of the highest points in Malta at around 825 feet (250 meters).

While the views at Dingli weren’t bad, there was nothing overly remarkable about the cliffs here. Maybe we weren’t at the right spot or didn’t have the right angle. Maybe we were jaded after seeing places like the Cliffs of Moher , or maybe we were just so impressed by the rest of Malta and Gozo that Dingli just didn’t quite live up to our expectations. Either way, Dingli Cliffs were skippable for us.

When to visit Malta

With lots of sunshine year-round, Malta is a great place to visit during most of the year. April through October are the warmest months, so if swimming or diving is on your agenda, this is the best time to visit Malta. We visited in mid-October and temperatures were still in the mid-80s. Winter in Malta is cool, and attractions have more limited hours or are closed completely.

It’s worth noting that Malta is very small. Combined, the area of Malta, Gozo, and Comino is only 10% the size of Rhode Island, the smallest state in the U.S. Crowds—especially in Valletta and getting around on buses—can be a challenge, so keep that in mind when you’re choosing the timing of your visit.

How to get to Malta

Malta is practically in the center of the Mediterranean Sea, so it’s easy to reach from most European cities. Major carriers fly regular routes as do budget airlines like easyJet, RyanAir, and Wizz Air.

Taking the ferry to Malta from Sicily can also be a great option. As with a flight, the specifics of your journey depend on your departure point, the service you choose, and the time of year you travel. Our trip on the Virtu ferry was approximately 1 hour 45 minutes.

Where to stay in Malta

Tourists stay in three primary areas in Malta—Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian’s.

Valletta —The capital is the best place to stay if you’re interested in history and culture. Nightlife here is more limited than in some other neighborhoods. Most hotels in Valletta are boutique hotels rather than large chains. There are unique options like the modern SU29 Hotel .

Sliema —This quiet, more residential area still has a great selection of restaurants and shops and a lovely promenade. Sliema is well-connected to Valletta by ferry. The 4-star Victoria Hotel , which features a rooftop pool and luxury spa, is just a 5-minute walk from the promenade. The highly-rated Palazzo Violetta is a great value and offers free parking at their modern studios and suites. Some rooms come with kitchenettes and 40″ flat screen TVs.

St. Julian’s —St. Julian’s (particularly Paceville) is known for its nightlife, but it’s great during the day as well with lovely views along the water and lots of restaurants to choose from. We stayed at the Malta Marriott Hotel & Spa , which is quiet and has an amazing rooftop pool.

Laura Longwell is an award-winning travel blogger and photographer. Since founding Travel Addicts in 2008, she has written hundreds of articles that help over 3 million people a year get the most out of their travel. In that time, she has visited nearly 60 countries on 5 continents, often returning to favorite destinations over and over again. She has a deep love of history, uncovering unexpected attractions, and trying all the good food a place has to offer.

In addition to Travel Addicts, Laura runs a site about her hometown of Philadelphia—Guide to Philly—which chronicles unique things to do and places to see around southeastern Pennsylvania. Her travel tips and advice appear across the web.

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Thursday 14th of June 2018

Thanks for the article Laura! I hope I can visit Malta someday!

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3 days in Malta Itinerary

How to make the most of your short trip.

Staying only 3 days in Malta is impossible to see all the wonderful sights. However, here are the highlights you should put first on your list when you arrive at this beautiful Mediterranean destination.

the 3 days in Malta itinerary

• Day One: Enjoy a day at Valletta
• Day Two: Visit the Island of Gozo
• Day Three: Mdina & Dingli Cliffs

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Malta Itinerary: Day 1

Valletta malta

Any visit to Malta should begin in Valletta . Malta’s unique capital is the smallest national capital in the European Union. That makes Valletta a perfect city to explore by foot, especially with its narrow alleyways that resemble an open-air museum. It’s easy to reach Valletta from the  airport  on the X4 bus (runs every 30 minutes, takes 25 minutes, and costs €2) or by taxi (15 minutes, approximately €16).

The most iconic structure in the city is  St. John’s Co-Cathedral . Unlike many cathedrals, it is the painted and gilded interior that most impresses visitors. This Baroque cathedral is a popular destination, so visitors should aim to get there early in the morning. Also, ensure you dress modestly. The clerics don’t like to see you arrive in shorts and a T-shirt. The cathedral was built by the Knights of the Order of St. John, and 375 knights were laid to rest beneath its marble floors.

The  Grand Master’s Palace  is where the leader of the Order of St. John once lived. Now it holds the office of Malta’s President. The staterooms are open to the public, including the Throne Room, the Tapestry Hall, the State Dining Hall, the Ambassador’s Room, and the Page’s Waiting Room. The palace armory contains armor and weapon once owned by the Knights of the Order.

If you have time, check out the  Upper Barrakka Garden . This viewpoint offers scenic views of the Grand Harbour and is the location of a daily cannon shot ceremony held at 12 noon and 4 pm. This ceremony originates from an old tradition of greeting foreign vessels with a shot when they sailed into port.

Day 2 of 3 Days In Malta

If you wish to fully appreciate the culture and variety of Malta, you should take the ½-hour ferry to Gozo , the second-largest island of the Republic of Malta. The crossing from Cirkewwa to Mgarr Harbor passes Comino Island. Comino Island is the most popular  snorkeling  spot in Malta, with sea caves and diverse marine life as well as the beautiful Blue Lagoon. Much like with the main island, the best way to explore Gozo is by hiring a car.

Dwejra Bay is the most popular destination on Gozo, renowned for the  Azure Window  rock formation which unfortunately has collapsed into the sea, Inland Sea, Fungus Rock , and the Blue Hole. This Blue Hole is a world-class  scuba diving  spot that is also popular with snorkelers and free divers. This geological feature is a circular rock formation formed by a sinkhole through the local limestone. It is only 16 feet by 32 feet in size but 50 feet deep.

Approximately 30 feet down, an archway allows access from the Blue Hole to the open sea. Opposite the archway, there is a big cave that scuba divers love to explore. The walls of the hole are home to sponges, coral tubeworms, and other marine creatures.

While on Gozo, check out the Ggantija Temples , a unique archaeological site. This megalithic temple complex was constructed 5,500 years ago during the Neolithic period, making them older than the pyramids and amongst the oldest structures in the world. Ggantija means Giants, and the site is named after giants who locals believed built the temples. There are other megalithic temples around Malta, but this complex is the oldest.

Day 3: Mdina & Dingli Cliffs

To explore the rest of Malta, it’s best to hire a vehicle. The bus routes were not designed with the attractions in mind, and the schedules are sometimes misleading. And the next stop on your list should be Mdina.

Mdina is the old capital of Malta and is located atop a hill just 8 miles west of Valletta. It is a historic fortified city where cars are forbidden. However, you can park your hire car in the free parking lot just outside the city and explore on foot.

Because of the lack of vehicles and ancient streets, Mdina is sometimes known as the Silent City . Its buildings are a mixture of the finest examples of medieval and baroque architecture. St. Paul’s Cathedral is an impressive baroque structure dedicated to the Apostle who was shipwrecked in Malta. In fact, you can walk from Mdina to the neighboring town of Rabat to visit the cave where locals believe St. Paul took refuge.

As soon as you enter Mdina main gate on the right you find the Mdina Dungeons Museum a real realistic and agonising story of medieval episodes which happened in Malta many hundred years ago. Do not miss to visit St. Paul’s Cathedral located at the centre a splendid baroque style architecture.

While in Mdina, you may enjoy a visit to the famous Fontanella Tea Garden. You may have to wait to be seated because it is a popular café. The upper floor of the tearooms offers the best views of the surrounding countryside. The tearooms are renowned for their homemade cakes.

dingli cliffs

Just 5 miles south of Mdina is Malta’s highest point, Dingli Cliffs. You can enjoy a relaxing walk atop the cliffs and experience panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. If you drive 8 miles north of Dingli, or 5½ miles northwest of Mdina, you come to Ghajn Tuffieha Bay . The ochre sand beach is popular with locals. A path headed toward the south of the beach leads you to a large rock formation with breathtaking views.

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• Introduction
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Operated by Soleto Travel

Soleto Travel, is a tour operator active from 2014, based in the island of Malta providing a wide range of touristic services in the maltese islands and Italy. Our team formed by friendly and dynamic staff includes: English, Italian, Spanish speaking staff, all well skilled in the tourism industry. Soleto Travel is a new concept of travel, paying attention to details offering high-end services and giving full support 24/7 to all our clients. Reliability on service, efficiency and personalisation are our strong points.

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• Overall Rating Excellent 4.8
• Itinerary Excellent 4.9
• Guide Excellent 4.9
• Transport Excellent 5.0
• Accommodation Excellent 5.0
• Food Excellent 4.5
• Tour Operator Soleto Travel 4.5
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• MK Maria · 25th March 2024 Overall the tour was great it covered all areas and places of interest. The tour guide was very informative and accommodation was very comfortable Trip date: March 2024
• MW Mary · 26th February 2024 I had an amazing experience with Soleto Travel! The attention to detail in planning my trip was impeccable. The team was knowledgeable, friendly, and went above and beyond to ensure everything was seamless. From accommodation to activities, every aspect... Show more Trip date: February 2024
• J Julia · 26th February 2024 Soleto Travel provided an exceptional experience! From seamless planning to attentive service, every aspect of our trip was top-notch. The team went above and beyond to ensure our comfort and satisfaction. I highly recommend Soleto Travel for an... Show more Trip date: February 2024

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