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15 Best Day Trips from Malta

Malta is a small archipelago of beautiful islands found amongst the rolling waves of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s a unique nation to visit because the country’s geographical location between North Africa and Italy has given the islands here a diversity that’s hardly matched anywhere else in Europe.

There are influences from across the neighboring regions that all collide to produce a culture and history that is more intriguing than you would ever imagine possible, given the small size of Malta.

Equally as diverse is the spectacular scenery that’s awaiting visitors to Malta, from the dramatic coastline and colorful bays to the rustic villages and rolling countryside. In Malta, there are countless day trip opportunities across the islands that make up this Mediterranean country.

Explore the medieval streets of the capital Valletta, visit ancient temples, snorkel in clear waters, and enjoy beautiful, golden beaches in the sunshine.

It’s a great place to visit – to help you plan your trip, here are the best day trips in Malta.

1. Valletta

Any trip to Malta needs to begin with a trip to the nation’s capital of Valletta. This small city is a spectacular mixture of architecture that encompasses many of the historical eras of Malta – from the medieval buildings of the Knights Hospitallier through to more modern defenses built by the British during World War II.

It’s an incredibly historic place and you can spend hours simply wandering through these old streets admiring the sights and attractions of the city.

Explore the city walls, visit St John’s Cathedral, and call in at the many museums strung throughout Valletta. The two harbors found on either side of the city are wonderful areas to explore too, and you can be sure you will be mesmerized by all you find in the city.

Available tour :  Valletta and 3 Cities Private 4-Hour Shore Excursion

2. The Three Cities

The Three Cities make for an intriguing day trip that takes in three of Malta’s most historic sites – the medieval areas of Cospicua, Senglea, and Vittoriosa.

These three cities are found close to Valletta, to the south-east of the Grand Harbor that the capital is built around. You can take a boat or ferry across from Valletta to truly experience these spectacular cities, arriving in the shadow of the huge walls and fortifications that have long protected them from invasion.

The Three Cities date back to medieval times and some areas are in fact older than Valletta itself. You can easily spend the day exploring the narrow alleyways and historic sites that are found within the Three Cities.

3. Palazzo Parisio

The Palazzo Parisio is found in the village of Naxxar on the island of Malta and dates back to the 18th century. At first, this was just a simple hunting lodge in the countryside, but in the early 20th century, a grand palace was built by a Marquis – and he didn’t hold back on its elegant design.

It’s a wonderfully lavish estate to visit and the sheer quantity of chandeliers alone will astound you.

There are stately rooms, corridors covered in paintings and portraits, and extensive, well-curated grounds to walk through.

4. Marsovin Cellars

Found in the Paulo region of Malta, on the southeastern side of the Grand Harbor, the Marsovin Cellars are a fantastic place to visit for those interested in learning more about the country’s flourishing wine culture.

The cellars are extensive; over the years, a vast collection of over 100,000 different bottles of wine has been collected and curated to be stored here.

The cellars themselves are historic, having been built by the Knights of St John centuries ago. Today, you can enjoy a wine tasting experience like no other in these medieval surroundings.

You can sample the local tastes, which are all produced from grapes grown on the island before being aged in barrels on site.

5. St Julians

St Julians is a district of Malta that’s found along the coast to the north of Valletta. Here you can find colorful bays that quite literally start on the edge of town; while the beaches are rocky, they are still beautiful in their own way.

St Julians, while having a number of historic and natural attractions, is perhaps more famous for its nightlife than for anything else these days.

It’s a popular resort area where you can find many restaurants and an even greater number of bars catering to holidaymakers.

It’s a good place to let your hair down and enjoy a few drinks in the evening – and perhaps even a few more drinks into the early hours of the morning.

6. Marsaxlokk

Marsaxlokk is a small village that is one of the longest continually inhabited settlements in Malta. Located in the southeast, this is a charming fishing port that can trace its origins back thousands of years.

There are several ancient temples to visit in the area, and, as well as this Neolithic era history, it’s a great place to explore authentic Maltese livelihoods.

Many of the residents are still traditional fishermen, and every weekend the village becomes the scene of a huge fish market, as buyers and sellers arrive from all over the island on their colorful boats.

7. Golden Bay

One of the most beautiful beaches in all of Malta can be found at Golden Bay. This small, sheltered cove has some of the finest sand in the country and has become a firm favorite amongst travelers and holidaymakers.

Despite its popularity, it has somehow still managed to retain a semblance of its rustic past, and even though there are many hotels and resorts along the coastline here, the hidden bay itself has managed to avoid much direct development.

The scenery here is simply spectacular. You can enjoy a lazy day on the beach and swimming in the shallow, clear, and colorful water.

8. Blue Grotto

Found at the southern end of Malta, the Blue Grotto is an iconic destination to visit. Along the rugged coastline, the weather-beaten rocks of Malta have, over the years, been crafted into a series of unique caverns that are today perfect for exploring.

The best way to experience the arches and caverns is to take a boat along the shore, where you will be instantly amazed by both the scenery and the bright blue hues of the water.

9. Dingli Cliffs

The rustic village of Dingli is the scene of some of Malta’s most inspiring coastline. The Dingli Cliffs are a dramatic sight to see and form the highest point on the island, as they rise to just over 200 meters in height.

This is a rural part of the island; the village by the cliffs is a picturesque, pastoral place to visit that harks back to another era long ago.

10. Buskett Gardens

When you arrive on Malta, you will soon notice that despite its unparalleled natural scenery, the one thing the island does lack is any forest or woodland.

The one area you can find that is full of trees is the Buskett Gardens. This unique area is unusual on Malta and makes for an interesting location to spend the day, strolling in the shade in the beautiful valley.

It’s so nice that even the President of Malta has an official residence on the edge of Buskett Gardens.

11. Hagar Qim and Mnajdra

This outstanding UNESCO World Heritage Site protects an ancient temple complex that includes the two expansive religious areas of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra.

Found at the far southern end of the island of Malta, these temples are a relic of a world that existed here long, long ago. They can claim to be one of the oldest known religious sites in the world that are still standing, with their origins believing to date back to at least the 3rd, or perhaps even 4th century BC.

12. Ggantija

Ggantija is another ancient temple complex found in Malta.

Located on the island of Gozo, in the north of the country, this Neolithic site dates as far back as the 5th century BC and is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Listing that protects the rest of Malta’s prehistoric temples.

Considering their age, the rocks and stones that form this religious site are remarkably well preserved in their original layout.

Mdina is a former capital of Malta and is found in the northern region of the country.

The city can be traced back to the days of Phoenician settlement of the island. For thousands of years, it served as the main capital and is today an important historical site and an excellent place to spend the day exploring.

14. Dwerja Bay

Dwerja Bay is found on the island of Gozo and is one of the most spectacular natural sites in the country.

This is where the Azure Window could, until very recently, be found. This natural arch was an iconic symbol of Malta, but in a violent storm in 2017, the rock collapsed.

You can still see the humble remains and the rest of the coastline here is equally dramatic and weather-beaten.

Compared to the two main islands of Malta and Gozo, Comino is much smaller and far less developed.

It’s a great place to spend the day if you are looking for an untouched part of the country to explore, and it’s every bit as beautiful and dramatic as anywhere else in the archipelago.

15 Best Day Trips from Malta:

• The Three Cities
• Palazzo Parisio
• Marsovin Cellars
• Blue Grotto
• Dingli Cliffs
• Buskett Gardens
• Hagar Qim and Mnajdra

17 COOLEST Things to do in Malta [2023!]

Malta is a fascinating island nation. Complete with its own unique language, patchwork of Mediterranean history and some of the most ancient archaeological sites in the world, as well as beaches and good food, it’s no wonder people flock here to enjoy its sun-soaked shores.

Being so interesting, however, there’s so much to do in Malta that it can be tricky to narrow it down!

That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive list of the best things to do in Malta – so that you can easily make a beeline for the most interesting sites and top places to be.

Our favourite places to stay in Malta!

Malta has a lot going for it in terms of history, sightseeing and nature, but the island nation also has a lot of choice when it comes to accommodation. We’ve rounded up the best places to stay in the best neighbourhoods in Malta to make the headache of finding accommodation so much simpler for you.

Inhawi Boutique Hostel

The best hostel in malta.

• Breakfast included
• Outdoor swimming pool

If you want somewhere cheap, fun and sociable to stay, then this is the best hostel in Malta for you. Not only is there a pool and sea views but there’s also a ton of social events, too.

Chapter 5 Hotel

The best budget hotel in malta.

• Great price
• Top location

Situated close to Msida Marina with many cafes and restaurants in walking distance, there’s also a bus stop nearby making it easy to travel around the island. There’s also the option of staying in a studio apartment which comes equipped with a kitchen.

Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands

The best luxury hotel in malta.

• Fantastic Views
• Spa & wellness centre

Ticking all of the high end boxes, this top hotel in Malta boasts luxury in abundance. Along with countryside views, there’s a large swimming pools, a chic spa and access to the hotel’s very own private beach.

• The 17 Best Things to Do in Malta •

#1 –  tour the megalithic temples.

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Incredible architecture
• Learn about Malta’s historic heritage

One of the coolest things about Malta is its megalithic temples. These things are old: we’re talking 3150 BC, making them a history lover’s dream. Visiting them has got to be one of the most interesting things to do in Malta.

There’s the Hagar Qim temples in the south and the Mnajdra temples, for example, making up these largest freestanding structures in the world. There’s also the medieval Hamrija tower thrown in for good measure, too.

#2 – Cruise around the islands

• Cruise around the sea
• Spot charming fishing villages
• Snap photos of amazing rock formations

Malta, being an island nation, is a good place to take a cruise. Specifically, that would mean catching a boat to its two smaller islands: Gozo and Comino.

One of the coolest things to do in Malta, seeing the islands from the crystal clear blue waters of the surrounding seas, as well as Malta’s cliffs and caves – plus the tiny islet of St. Paul’s – comes highly recommended.

#3 – Discover St. John’s Co-Cathedral

• Beautiful religious building
• Impressive architecture
• Boasts two Caravaggio paintings inside

St. John’s Co-Cathedral, situated in the town of Valletta, was commissioned in 1572 and completed in 1577. An example of Baroque architecture, seeing this amazing structure is one of the best things to do in Malta.

This stand-out place is all about its marble floors, ornate carvings, intricate details and gilded ceilings. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more beautiful church on the islands, that’s for sure: St. John’s Co-Cathedral simply stunning.

Need more specifics? Here are the best neighborhoods in Malta to stay !

#4 – Shop at the Sunday market

• Soak up the market’s atmosphere
• See a slice of local life
• Explore a town with ancient roots

A great, local thing to do in Malta, this fun Sunday market takes places at Marsaxlokk. Mostly consisting of seafood, this is a cool place to stroll around and soak up some authentic life of the island.

We would recommend going early – like, really early. Sunrise (6:30 a.m. onward) is the best time to visit, as you see the fisherman come in with their fresh catch ready for the market. Afterwards, spend time exploring the town itself – established by the Phoenicians in the 9th century BC.

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#5 – Pay a visit to the Grandmaster’s Palace

• Learn about Malta’s history
• See some stunning artwork
• Allegedly haunted!

This important portion of Malta’s history was established between the 16th and 18th centuries and was the seat of power for the head of the Knights Hospitaller. During the British colonial period (1813-1964) it was the official residence of the Governor of Malta.

Located in the centre of Valletta, inside the palace itself is plenty of ornate artwork, a thrown room, a tapestry hall and an armoury. Parts of the palace are now a museum, but it also is currently the office of the President of Malta.  

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#6 – Hop on hop off on the bus

• Buses come every 30 minutes
• Makes it easy to get around
• Perfect if you’re in Malta just a few days

One of the best things to do in Malta, especially if you’ve only got a short time on the islands, is to embark on a hop on, hop off bus tour. This will allow you to hone in on the most important sites of the island without worrying about how to get to each one.

You can take two different routes: the South Malta route or the North Malta route. Each one makes it easy to see everything you’re here to see – the estates, the historic sites and beaches. Simple.

#7 – Chill out on the beach

• Relaxing thing to do
• Discover hidden beaches
• Water sports for adrenaline seekers

No Maltese itinerary would be complete without hitting up some of the island nation’s beautiful beaches – some of which are Blue Flag-certified. Not only are these some of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean, the water is also some of the cleanest.

So what better thing to do in Malta that to hit up some of the island’s beaches; these include Paradise Bay, Mellieha Bay and the very scenic Ghajn Tuffieha.

#8 – Have lunch at the harbour

• Soak up the sites and picturesque views
• Try local cuisine
• Different budgets catered for

The Grand Harbour, also known as the Port of Valletta, is a charming place to be. This majestic location is a cool spot to people-watch and wander, with the historic town on one side and the modern city on the other.

So what better way to soak up it all up than to grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants nearby. Lunching with a view of the harbour, the turquoise sea, the super yachts, is definitely one of the best things to do in Malta.

#9 – Be creeped out at St Paul’s Catacombs

• Unique thing to do in Malta
• A wealth of important history

Ok, so this one isn’t for you if you’re claustrophobic or easily creeped out! St. Paul’s Catacombs, located underneath the streets of Rabat, connect St. Paul’s Church to these underground warrens, which showcase Christian, Roman and Jewish burials side by side.

Dating from the 3rd to the 8th century AD, there are 20 hypogea (Latin name for an underground chamber) open to the public. The whole complex spans 2,000 square metres, so there’s a lot to explore!

#10 –  Pubcrawl around Paceville

• Dance the night away
• Meet locals
• Sample Malta’s nightlife

Paceville is the name of popular nightlife area in the town of St. Julian’s, where you can “pace” yourself (hopefully) on an evening of drinking and fun times.

Start off at a rooftop bar, sipping on cocktails looking out over the rooftops, then head down into Paceville itself, dipping into different bars, rubbing shoulders with locals and finally finishing up at one of the area’s nightclubs. Definitely one of the best things to do at night in Malta!

#11 – See a performance at Manoel Theatre

• See productions in English and Maltese
• A variety of performances on offer
• Beautiful, historic architecture

Known simply as ‘The Manoel’ – named after the Grandmaster of the Order of the Knights Hospitaller – this is actually the (reputed) 3rd oldest working theatre in Europe, having been constructed in 1731.

Located in the aptly named Theatre Street in Valletta, it’s a small venue with a lot of charm – expect a round copula ceiling, carved wood and gold leaf. See what’s on and go catch a show!

#12 – Sample Maltese Wine

• Sample Maltese wine
• Dive into the country’s heritage
• Learn about winemaking

Malta has a rich history and culture, and with its geological location in the Mediterranean, it also boasts some pretty good wine, too. A good place to go to see where the magic of winemaking happens – and try some for yourself – are the Marsovin Cellars in Marsa.

Here you can take a tour through their 400-year-old ageing cellars, learn how the grapes are grown, pressed and made into wine, and try a few of their best bottles for yourself. A great thing to do in Malta for wine-lovers, of course.

#13 – Sit in the shade at San Anton Gardens

• Relaxing place to stroll
• Surprising history
• Cool Instagram spot

Designed and planted in the 18th century, and opened to the public in 1882, the San Anton Gardens are some immaculately kept grounds that surround the San Anton Palace.

Not only are the gardens a good place to come for a stroll, but visiting the San Anton Gardens is awash with history; almost every tree has its own history, complete with a plaque dedicated to the person who planted it, making it one of the most interesting things to do in Malta.

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#14 –  Be amazed by festive fireworks

• Visit charming villages
• A cool thing to do at night in Malta

Fireworks are something of a tradition in Malta. In fact, this island nation loves their fireworks. Not only do they celebrate Guy Fawkes Night, like the UK, but they have their very own International Fireworks Festival.

Fireworks are loved so much in Malta that you can actually see them every weekend at one of the island’s many festa (village feasts), when patron saints are celebrated. You won’t be disappointed!

#15 – Get cultured at the National Museum of Archaeology

• See ancient artefacts
• Historic building

Malta has a lot of history. It’s one thing going to see the buildings themselves – the ancient temples, the churches and palaces – but for a more rounded view and to learn a thing or two about the island, head to Valletta.

Here you will find the National Museum of Archaeology, housed in a Baroque building from 1571. This place features displays of finds from as far back as 5000 BC, from tools used by prehistoric peoples to Phoenician jewellery.

#16 –  Go snorkelling in Malta’s famous Blue Lagoon

• Perfect day trip from Malta island
• Get to ride the ferry
• Spend all day relaxing

The Blue Lagoon is a popular spot for swimming and snorkelling, and is a little bit of paradise in Malta. A small bay with shallow waters on the west coast of Comino, this place quite naturally draws in a lot of people.

Hop on a ferry to Comino and get yourself to the Blue Lagoon; a day trip from Malta to here is the way a lot of people get to experience the beautiful views, sunbathe on the decks and swim safely in its roped off swimming areas.

#17 – Stroll around Valletta

• See some beautiful buildings
• Discover the town at a leisurely pace
• Learn the history of the town

Certainly one of the best free things to do in Malta would simply be to stroll around Valletta. This historic town has plenty of sites, with early modern as well as medieval architecture to explore.

Heading out on a tour would be the best way to do it. That way you actually get to learn about what you’re looking at, rather than having to leaf through a guidebook to find relevant information!

Final thoughts on the best things to do in Malta

That’s all folks – the very best things to do in Malta all on one handy list. It’s a great selection of the best activities and sights that can be found across the island nation.

We think there’s something for just about everyone here, making for a killer itinerary. We’re talking historic walking tours, diving into creepy catacombs, lunching by the sea and lounging around on the beach. What more could you want?

Think there’s something we’ve missed off? Know of some hidden gems in Malta ? Then let us know in the comments below!

***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, One Weird Globe will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you . Your support helps me keep the site going :)

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The 18 best things to do in Malta and Gozo: culture, cuisine, and outdoor adventures

May 12, 2022 • 6 min read

From hearing the cannons roar in Valletta to kayaking the coast of Gozo, here are the best things to do in Malta © TheLiftCreativeServices / Shutterstock

Encompassing just 316 sq km (122 sq mi), Malta may be the world’s tenth-smallest country, but it still manages to pack in many diverse things to see and do.

These recommendations – combining world-famous attractions with a few under-the-radar surprises – to experience the best of this compact island nation at the heart of the Mediterranean .

Experience the roar of Valletta's famous cannons

Walking around Valletta , you'll probably hear an almighty bang at noon and 4pm. Make your way to the Saluting Battery to see what all the fuss is about, and combine the pomp of Valletta's ceremonial cannons – traditionally used to fire salutes to visiting naval vessels – and brilliant views across Grand Harbour to Fort St Angelo and the Three Cities.

Explore Malta's Three Cities in an electric buggy

Traveling in an eco-friendly electric buggy from Rolling Geeks, embark on a self-drive discovery of the piazzas, avenues, and sleepy backstreets of the historic Three Cities of Vittoriosa , Senglea, and Cospicua. Pre-programmed directions are handled by the buggies' onboard GPS, so it's impossible to get lost on a leisurely journey taking in museums, churches, and gardens.

Be challenged by contemporary art in Valletta

Inspired by Valletta's 2018 stint as a European Capital of Culture, several of the city's heritage mansions now showcase contemporary art. Galleries worth visiting for thought-provoking installations and sculptures include Valletta Contemporary and Blitz . Scheduled to open in 2023, Malta International Contemporary Art Space (MICAS ) will encompass around 7000 sq m (75347 sq ft) of galleries and exhibitions in a restored fort in the historic Floriana precinct.

Learn about "Fortress Malta" at the Lascaris War Rooms

Concealed 40m (131ft) below Valletta's Upper Baraka Gardens, the Lascaris War Rooms housed the Allies’ top-secret command HQ during WWII and were a vital part of the island's defense during the 18-month Siege of Malta from 1940 to 1942. Fascinating guided tours explore map rooms and communications centers restored to how they were during the war.

Hike the clifftop trails of southern Gozo

Tackle the Xlendi Walk, meandering for 12km (7.5 miles) from Mġarr Harbour to the rocky bays around Xlendi. En route, there's the improbably narrow cove at Mġarr ix-Xini, coastal watchtowers built by the Knights of St John in the 17th century, and a vertiginous stairway leading to the compact Carolina Cave. Buses from both Mġarr and Xlendi link to Victoria, Gozo 's historic capital.

Discover family-friendly science at Esplora

Focus on both education and entertainment with a visit to Esplora , which opened in 2016 as one of Europe's best interactive science centers. More than 200 interactive exhibits explore cosmology, plate tectonics, and Malta's natural history. The playground, well-kept gardens and an expansive rooftop terrace all offer brilliant views of Valletta and the Three Cities’ Fort St Angelo .

Swoon at classic cars

If you're renting a car, a compact Japanese or Korean option is probably best for negotiating Malta's winding and often narrow roads, but that won't stop you from being envious of the stellar array of automotive excellence at the Malta Classic Car Collection . Look for the blue vintage Bugatti sports car out front and you'll know you're in the right place.

Relax in Mdina's il-Foss

First created as part of the walled city's defensive bastion, a 21st-century makeover has transformed Mdina's historic il-Foss ( ditch gardens ) into a very pleasant place for a picnic and leisurely stroll. Overgrown tangles of ivy have been replaced by olive trees and a citrus grove, and the space is also used for occasional festivals and concerts.

Ease into the weekend with alfresco jazz

Make a beeline for Valletta's Bridge Bar , especially on a Friday night, when music fans spill out onto the city's honey-colored stairs and enjoy live jazz. Colorful cushions make it a comfortable impromptu concert, and the relaxed tunes usually kick off around 8:30pm and run through until midnight.

Kayak around Gozo's coastline

Idiosyncratic wind- and sea-eroded coastal formations and hidden sea caves make Gozo an excellent destination for sea kayaking. Gozo Adventures run half- and full-day kayaking trips, kicking off at Hondoq Bay on the island's south coast before crossing the Gozo Channel to Comino . Other kayaking destinations include Gozo's sheltered Inland Sea .

Harness Maltese ingredients at a cookery school

Focusing on how its place in the Mediterranean Sea has impacted Malta's culinary diversity, the Mediterranean Culinary Academy's menu of cookery classes includes experiences crafting ravjul (Maltese ravioli) and teaming Maltese wines with artisan produce including cheese, honey, and preserves. Local and sustainable ingredients are regularly used.

Dive into the amazing Blue Hole

Unfortunately, Gozo's famed Azure Window sea arch crumbled into the sea during a big storm in March 2017, but the surrounding Dwejra Bay coastline is still wildly spectacular. Boat trips exploring the nearby Inland Sea also take in views of the arch underwater in gin-clear Mediterranean waters, while it's also possible to dive in the nearby Blue Hole , a 25m (82ft) deep underwater limestone chimney.

Travel 500,000 years back in time at Għar Dalam Cave and Museum

Translating to "Cave of Darkness,"  Għar Dalam is a 145m-long (475ft) cavern carved into Lower Coralline Limestone, the oldest exposed rock in the Maltese islands. Ancient fossils, some up to 500,000 years old, have been discovered in the cave, representing the bones and teeth of dwarf elephants, hippopotamuses, and prehistoric micro-mammals.

Experience living history at Gozo's ancient salt pans

Negotiate quiet coastal roads and unsealed tracks on Gozo's northern coast to the often-windswept site of the Marsalforn salt pans . Cut into the coastal limestone by hand, the salt pans date from Roman times, and are still used to harvest salt between May and September. Rent a mountain bike in nearby Marsalforn, and make the 2km (1.25 miles) journey west to the salt pans.

Meet the locals at Malta National Aquarium

Five different aquatic zones – each representing different aspects of the waters surrounding Malta – make up the country's national aquarium . Specialist exhibitions focus on Valletta's Grand Harbour and Gozo's coastline, and more than 250 species are displayed in 50 tanks. A highlight is a 12m (40ft) walk-through underwater tunnel.

Climb high for Gozo's best views

Gozo's rocky and serrated coastline is one of Europe's best places for climbing. Many of the island's 300-plus sport climbs are focused on the southern coast, especially around the Munxar-Xlendi Valley, and further east at spectacular Mġarr ix-Xini. It's a good place to learn to climb, especially with Gozo Adventures who can also arrange bouldering and abseiling trips.

Make a difference with BirdLife Malta

Check BirdLife Malta's website for opportunities to join one of the organization's regular events promoting the protection of local and migratory avian species. Events could include after-dark experiences learning about the impact of light pollution on Gozo's nesting seabirds, or eco-walks around northern Malta's Park tal-Majjistral .

Tour Gozo on a Segway or e-bike

Hook up with Gozo Segway Tours – either on a Segway or an e-bike – to explore Malta's smaller and less-populous island. Options include an overland journey from the Marsalforn salt pans to the rocky and narrow coastal bay of Wied l-Ghasri , and then on to the immense Basilica of Ta' Pinu near the village Għarb.

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57 Fun Things to do in Malta & Gozo

• 7 Pinterest

The sun-kissed island of Malta might be small in stature, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for with pristine beaches, lively culture, and never-ending beautiful landscapes.

Even off the main island, Gozo and Comino each hold their own as exceptional tourist destinations.

Whether you’re visiting for a day, a week, or a month, there are so many fun things to do in Malta and Gozo that you’ll never want to leave.

Explore secluded beaches and snorkel in crystal clear waters, swim at the famous Blue Lagoon, cruise around the island on a quad bike and day trip to traditional villages.

What truly sets Malta apart is the bounty of historic sites, ancient ruins and natural wonders to uncover … Some even date as far back as the New Stone Age! Stumble upon structures like forts or underground temples built in 2500 BC.

Plenty of museums keep both adults and the younger ones fascinated, or one of the thrilling water parks will do the trick.

Situated in the Mediterranean Sea, Malta is right across the way from southern Italy and it takes less than two hours to get from this island to Sicily.

1 – Catch a sunset at Għajn Tuffieħa Bay

Just half an hour’s drive from Valetta, on Malta’s eastern shores, curious travelers will find the stunning Għajn Tuffieħa bay.

Unlike its neighbor, Golden Bay, Għajn Tuffieħa appears untouched by man, a true natural oasis primed for relaxation, tranquility, and sunbaking.

At sunset, the views from these sands are nothing short of magical.

2 – Walk around the Old Town of Valletta

As an entire city designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a walk through Valletta’s Old Town is a non-negotiable when visiting this vibrant island nation.

Conventional walking tours lead visitors to must-see landmarks like St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the Grand Master’s Palace, however, for something a little more left-field, try a moonlit ghost tour!

• Valletta Walking Tours

3 – Explore the beaches and mountains of Gozo

While not as big as the main Maltese island, Gozo still overflows with historic attractions, explorable mountains, stunning beaches, and rich culture.

Whatever your preference, there’s an activity to fit your needs: choose a tour starting from Gozo with options like Jeep safaris , hop-on-hop-off busses, tuk-tuks, or even segways !

For a more comfortable journey, try a day trip from Valletta that includes the boat transfer and the activities on Gozo island.

Arriving at the isle, you can’t help but notice its unique landscape and its terrain comprises rocky limestone mountains, terraced farm fields and wild countryside. One of the best ways to explore your new surroundings is during epic quad tours !

There are half-day or full-day options and get to ride the ATV yourself or let your driver lead the way.

Alternatively, opt for a bike tour around Gozo, cruising to the island’s most important natural sites on an E-bicycle.

• Gozo day trips from Valletta

4 – Take a trip to Mdina

A walled city that once served as the nation’s capital, Mdina combines history with beauty, without all of the tourist crowds.

The best way to explore this city is on foot; allow expert locals to guide you through Mdina’s old streets, pointing out notable landmarks and sharing fascinating cultural insights all the way through.

You don’t even need to be staying there — hassle-free Mdina day trips depart from Valletta every day.

• Mdina day trips from Valletta

5 – Investigate the National Museum of Archeology

Unearth the past at the National Museum of Archeology where you’ll get the chance to see — and learn about — artifacts from ancient temples and sites around Malta dating from the Neolithic period up until the Phoenician period (lasting from the 8th to 6th Century BC).

Discover primitive tools, a sarcophagus, stone sculptures (one of the most famous is titled ‘The Sleeping Lady’), ruins from Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum and the Tarxien and Ggantija temples, and more.

Visit this museum soon after arriving in Malta before venturing off to the historic sites where excavations were done. You’ll have a far better understanding of each temple or monument when exploring.

6 – Check out Comino & the Blue Lagoon

Undeniably one of Malta’s most charming locations, Comino — an island halfway between Malta and Gozo — plays host to the spectacular Blue Lagoon, a naturally-formed swimming cove next to the coral reef.

Cruise around the vibrant waters, snorkel with colorful fish in the marina or relax on the beach — whatever your preference, Comino simply can’t be missed.

The picturesque island is basically uninhabited and as such, remains untouched. The only way to reach Comino is via an oceanic route. Jet boats are fast, offering a speedy option to get to the island, and there are multiple tours around Comino and to the famed Blue Lagoon.

Otherwise, another way of reaching the islet is by means of kayaking . Often preferred by water sports enthusiasts, sightsee on the water, stop to snorkel and move at your own leisure.

• Comino day trips from Valletta

7 – Admire St. John’s Cathedral

Dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, this stunning 16th-century cathedral is unquestionably one of the essential things to do in Malta.

Despite being over 500 years old, the Maltese landmark continues to be used as a place of worship and cultural center to this day; as one of the city’s most important buildings, all walking tours of Valletta will be sure to stop here.

• St. John’s Cathedral tours

8 – Meet the animals at the Malta National Aquarium

Housing 41 tanks full of reptiles, insects, amphibians, and thousands of Mediterranean fish (particularly semi-native species), plus an intriguing collection of historical artifacts, the Malta National Aquarium is chock-full of fascinating entertainment.

For things to do in Malta with the kids, it’s hard to go past the aquarium as the prime activity. Combine it with a visit to the nearby Bird Park for the ultimate animal experience.

• National Aquarium Tickets

9 – Save time for the Blue Grotto

A spot not to be missed on any trip to Malta, the Blue Grotto is a series of nine caves on the island’s southeastern coast.

With its radiant hues, brilliant color-changing light reflections, and naturally-formed cave walls, it’s no wonder this place is so popular.

Take note: when the villagers approach on their small fishing boats, they’ll delightfully serenade you for a small tip.

• Blue Grotto Tours from Valletta

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Catch live performances on piano, violin and cello of classical music and tributes to your favorite bands and musicians, from Hans Zimmer to the Queen. Candlelight concerts take place in scenic venues that don’t typically host concerts and events for an unforgettable backdrop to live renditions of your favorite tunes. Revel in a live music concert surrounded by the ambiance of lit candles!

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10 – Dive the Blue Hole beneath the Azure Window

With its floor submerged over 200 feet below the surface; and octopi, fireworms, morays, and sea horses calling it home, this underwater limestone cave is heaven on Earth for scuba divers, freedivers, and snorkelers.

Emerging from the rock face above the Blue Hole is the equally impressive Azure Window: a towering 328-feet-tall (100-meter) rock formation — a perfect photo backdrop and cliff-diving location.

11 – Explore the ruins of the Ħaġar Qim Temples

A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site dating back to the 3000s BC, the recently excavated Ħaġar Qim Temples are considered architectural masterpieces — the complex’s intricate engineering was a notable feat for the times.

It’s not just a historical attraction though: straddling a hilltop and overlooking the islet of Filfla, the Ħaġar Qim Temples also offer ocean views nothing short of extraordinary.

• Hagar Qim Temples Tours from Valletta

12 – Visit the Marsaxlokk village

Not only is Marsaxlokk a quaint fishing village looking like something that belongs on a postcard, but it’s also the gateway to the ever-popular Blue Grotto caves.

By day, the village boasts ample sightseeing, shopping, and relaxation opportunities; by night, the romantic seaside restaurants await (featuring fully stocked bars, of course).

• Marsaxlokk day trips from Valletta

13 – Swim in St. Peter’s Pool

Just a stone’s throw from the traditional fishing village of Marsaxlokk at the tip of Delimara Point, St. Peter’s Pool holds its own as one of the most visually spectacular natural swimming pools across the entire archipelago.

It’s an exceptional spot for safe cliff jumping (be careful, of course) and a wonderful stop on any road trip down the island’s southeastern coast.

14 – Learn of spooky history at St. Paul’s Catacombs

Eerie and historical; fascinating yet spooky — St. Paul’s complex of interconnected, underground Roman cemeteries date back over 1700 years, mostly undiscovered until 1894.

The main catacomb , which is open daily from 9 am until 5 pm, covers more than 2000 square meters, making it the largest of its kind ever discovered on the island.

15 – Stroll around the peaceful San Anton Gardens

Remarkably, the San Anton Gardens, which surround the official residence of the President of Malta, have been open to the public since 1882, and there’s just as beautiful today as ever.

The charming gardens are home to a variety of local birds and plant life; there’s a small maze, perfect for kids; and best of all, the complex is free to enter.

16 – Appreciate the views from the Dingli Cliffs

Jutting over the sea near the village of Dingli on Malta’s Western coast, at 253 meters above sea level, the famous Dingli Cliffs represent the highest point on the Maltese islands.

Whether looking out to sea from land or vice versa, the views are astonishing.

For an unforgettable day trip, combine the cliffs with a stop at Mdina and/or Rabat.

• Dingli Cliffs tours

17 – Explore the Island by Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus

While Valletta is certainly walkable, if you’re pressed for time, look no further than the city’s Hop-On-Hop-Off bus.

With a number of stops not only in Valletta but over the whole island (plus more routes in Gozo), these open-air busses (wear a hat!) are a hassle-free, affordable way to see all the main sites in a short period of time.

• bus tours in Malta

18 – Unravel Gozo’s underwater treasures on a freediving course

Immerse yourself in a world filled with mystery around Gozo, an island in Malta nestled in the Mediterranean Sea, on a freediving discovery course. Dive into the depths of Xatt l-Ahmar Bay and discover the allure of a sunken shipwreck, a haunting reminder of history’s secrets.

Delve further into the secluded haven of Wied il-Għasri, where the famous “Cathedral Cave” awaits your exploration, revealing an awe-inspiring underworld.

19 – Make your way to the Coral Lagoon

One of Malta’s best-kept secrets, the Coral Lagoon is hidden off the beaten track, meaning that crowds are rare and the serenity is unmatched. Pick your weapon: kayak, scuba gear, or snorkeling kit — and explore the warm, clear lagoon waters.

Also known as Dragonara Cave, the awe-inspiring natural sea cave is situated in the Mellieha area on the northern side of the island. While visiting this part, stop by Għadira Bay renowned for its gorgeous crystal-blue waters and soft-sand beach.

As one of Malta’s most popular beaches, there is a plethora of outdoor activities to try from water skiing to kite surfing, snorkeling to kayaking, and windsurfing is extremely popular too. If you’ve never tried the watersport before, book windsurfing lessons at Għadira Bay .

It’s just a fact — experiencing the Coral Lagoon is of the most amazing things to do in Malta.

20 – Check out the views from Fort St. Angelo

Smack-bang in the middle of the Grand Harbour in Birgu, Fort St. Angelo not only offers spectacular views of the surrounding waters, but also provides a fascinating insight into over 800 years worth of local history.

The fort, just a short boat ride from Valletta, is typically open Thursday through Sunday, making it an easy activity to fit into any day of exploring.

21 – Cool off at the Splash & Fun Water Park

About 20 minutes north of Valletta in the village of Naxxar, the Splash & Fun Water Park , true to its name, promises a splash-tastic day out for the whole family.

For relaxation, make a beeline for the wave pool, lazy river, or sunbeds; for heart-racing thrills, race down one of the park’s high-speed water slides — the Black Hole, Twister, and Sidewinder are all thrilling!

22 – See the coastline of Gozo on a boat tour

If you’re after pristine views of the island of Gozo, look no further than a boat tour — the ideal way to soak in the views, serene waters, and toasty sun all at once.

There’s something for every preference: choose from private boat rentals, Turkish gullets, sailboats, and catamarans.

• boat tours in Valletta

Hot tip: Best Boat Tours in Malta & Gozo – All you Need to Know

23 – Visit the historic Fort Manoel

An intimidating structure initially built by the Knights to protect Valletta from enemy fire, Fort Manoel is an icon of the city and a must-see attraction for any visitor (even if only from afar).

Besides its historical significance, Manoel is also known for being the backdrop in a number of important Game of Thrones scenes, such as Ned’s verdict.

24 – Put your mind to the test (and sightsee) during scavenger games in Valletta

Think you have what it takes to be a detective? A super fun way to explore the capital city of Malta for all ages is with a riveting scavenger hunt game in Valletta.

All that is required is a smartphone and a bit of brains as you crack one clue and move on to the next in order to reach your end goal of the city scavenger hunt.

Solving one mystery at a time, you will be guided by the game to various iconic points of interest … so you get in your city sightseeing at the same time!

• scavenger games in Malta

25 – Devour pastizzis on a food tour

An absolute staple when it comes to Maltese cuisine, the pastizzi is a traditional savory pastry, usually stuffed with ricotta, cheese combinations, or peas.

The best way to sample them, and more of the island’s delicious treats, is on a locally-led food tour (because locals know best).

If you’re up for it, take the tour to the next level by including wine tastings and/or a cruise!

• food tours in Valletta

26 – Relax at the Upper & Lower Barrakka Gardens

The peaceful, well-manicured Barrakka Gardens — split into two equally lovely sections — serve up wonderful harbor views and a great atmosphere for a picnic, a read, or a nap.

With so much to see on foot around Valletta, the gardens are ideal spots to simply sit back (perhaps with a cup of coffee in hand) and relax.

27 – Snap a photo in front of the Mosta Rotunda

If you’re staying in Valletta, the village of Mosta is an easy and worthwhile day trip, with hassle-free tours departing from the main city daily.

With its six iconic columns and two bell towers, Mosta’s main attraction — the Mosta Dome/Rotunda — is an architectural beauty.

But if you think that’s impressive, just wait till you get inside…

• Mosta day trips from Valletta

28 – Spend an afternoon at the Esplora science museum

Housing over 200 exhibits (most of them heavily interactive), Esplora encourages hands-on learning, with the aim to get visitors excited about the world of science — and based on the countless positive reviews, it does exactly that!

Besides the exhibits, live shows, and workshops, Esplora also houses a planetarium — a surefire hit for youngsters and adults alike.

29 – Sunbake, then hike at Gnejna Bay Beach

Found not too far from Għajn Tuffieħa Bay, Gnejna Bay Beach is smaller and more secluded, meaning that it’s often exceptionally quiet and peaceful.

While many visitors love nothing more than to nap on the sand, the experience isn’t complete without a 15-minute trek to the nearby Qarraba Bay — one of the most beautiful coastal walks in the country.

30 – Indulge in wine tours and tastings

With southern Italy sitting just across the way from Malta, this island too has a host of vineyards producing some delectable vino, and there are a few wine tours and tastings to choose from.

A popular choice is a tour and tasting session at Meridiana Wine Estate in Ta Qali. Learn about their production process, topped with tasting their chardonnay, Vermentino, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Stroll through 400-year-old ‘Ageing Cellars’ at Marsovin Cellars , concluding with a wine tasting at their Marsovin wine bar.

For a completely different type of wine-drinking experience, there are wine and painting classes to join for a creative afternoon.

• wine tours in Malta

31 – Stop by one of Malta’s oldest monuments, Għar Dalam

With relics on display dating back to the Ice Age, the unobtrusively sized Għar Dalam caves are a fascinating sight to witness – as well as a site to look around.

Not overly massive, stepping inside is like taking a crazy trip back in time … way, way back!

There are five levels that were dug out and have been divided according to what was excavated. Most of what was unearthed belonged to animals, and majority of the fossils to see comprise bits of bone and teeth.

32 – Take a sailing trip, obviously!

Regardless of whether your trip to Malta is for relaxation, adventure, or a non-stop party, no trip to this paradise island is complete without at least one sailing trip.

Depending on your budget, choose from private rentals or group tours, with everything from romantic dinners to snorkeling sessions and open bars all available.

• sailing trips in Malta

33 – See a vintage Ford Thunderbird at the Malta Classic Car Museum

For fans with an aficionado for old-school automobiles, go gaga at the Malta Classic Car Collection — home to a hugely impressive collection of over 100 exhibits inside the Classic Car Museum, as well as a restoration workshop on-site.

Once the museum gets hold of vintage cars, they restore them to their original glory and you can check out the mechanics doing their thing during a live restoration demo.

Scope out the classics like the Triumph Spitfire, and there are more antiques and memorabilia displayed at the museum like vintage gramophones and jukeboxes.

• Malta Classic Car Museum tickets

34 – Go Horse Riding in Golden Bay

Venture cross-country through the stunning landscapes of northwestern Malta the old fashioned way: on horseback !

The same family has been running this incredible experience since 1981, which means they’ve perfected their craft — visitors of all ages will walk away with a grin on their face, guaranteed.

35 – Chill out at the best beach clubs

You’re on an island after all … kick back in the sand with a cocktail in hand at one of Malta’s best beach clubs.

Located on the cliffside, play around two massive pools, order sushi and cocktails and enjoy the views from Medasia Playa .

With its famous counterpart located in Ibiza, the Maltese rendition of Café del Mar promises the same sweet tunes, sunset vibes and trendy oceanic setting. Another beach club paying an ode to the famous party destination is Bora Bora Ibiza Malta .

The ocean and swimming pool look as if they’re one at 1926 Beach Club and live bands take to the stage in the evenings. Blũ Beach Club has a bit of a more relaxed atmosphere than the rest and live music happens here in the evenings as well.

36 – Hike along the historic Victoria Lines

Unofficially known as the Great Wall of Malta, the 19th-century, 12km-long Victoria Lines feature watchtowers, fortified walls, and never-ending, top-notch views of Malta’s rolling hills and valleys.

For keen hikers looking to experience the outdoors (and appreciate history simultaneously), a Victoria Lines trek is one of the best things to do in Malta and Gozo.

37 – Day trip to the Ggantija Temples from Valletta

More than 5,500 years old, the historic Ggantija Temples on Gozo Island are among the most revered ancient monuments to explore in Malta.

Arriving at the UNESCO World Heritage site, marvel from the get-go at the Neolithic temples created completely from limestone, and reimagine what life was like at the turn of the Stone Age.

Discover corridors, altars and doorways that were once used by the first inhabitants during ceremonial endeavors, and the temples were constructed between 3600 and 3200 BC.

• Ggantija Temples day trips from Valletta

38 – “Walk” on water when you try flyboard

Hunting down things to do in Malta to get your heart pumping? On an island laden with outdoor activities, flyboarding over at Spinola Bay (in St. Julian’s town) is exciting and offers something unusual from the regular mix.

Choose between a short flight (20 minutes), or a full flight (30 minutes) and after a 15-minute instruction briefing, it’s time to hit the water and FLY!

Strapped into a board (attached to a powerful jet water hose), feel yourself propelled into the sky and soar above water, and if you’ve got the hang of things easily, even try some air tricks or 360 spins!

• flyboard in Malta

39 – Go crazy on a pirate-themed boat party!

Unleash your wild side on a 5-hour pirate-themed boat party , a non-stop excursion of booze, music, dancing, swimming, and an all-around good time.

For solo travelers or friends looking to meet like-minded partiers, there’s no better place; and with plenty of snacks and an open bar, it’s the perfect pre-game to any night out.

40 – Let the kids cool off at Bugibba Water Park

While not a water park in the traditional sense (there’s no heart-racing water slides or lazy rivers), Bugibba Water Park does provide a free (for 20 minutes), safe, and fun place for kids to cool off on a hot summer’s day.

While the youngsters run around in the pools and fountains, the adults can sit back in the shaded cafe area, recharging their own batteries.

41 – Grab drinks at the best rooftops

As the sun dips low over the ocean, enjoy the scenery and views from way up high at any of these best rooftops in Malta.

Open all summer long, head on up to the 19th floor and take in the coastal scenery and sweeping views from the SKY BEACH bar and restaurant.

With a retractable glass rooftop, infinity pool, champagne bar and hot tubs, the lush Infinity by Hugo’s bar lures in guests.

Watch the sunset over St. Paul’s Bay at Taza Sky Bar , or enjoy the 360-degree panoramic views over the city at the TemptAsian Restaurant & Lounge 360 .

Open for lunch and dinner, The Rooftop (at The Embassy hotel) is an elegant affair, with fabulous wining and dining options.

42 – Enjoy yourself at Popeye’s Village

A blissful seaside theme park that visitors might recognize as the set of the 80s musical comedy film, the colorful Popeye’s Village in the North of Malta (also known as Sweethaven Village) offers fun in the sun for the whole family.

With boat rides, food outlets, water trampolines, a winery, and plenty of live entertainment, it’s always a great day out.

• Popeye’s Village tours

43 – Grab a table at Rampila

Foodies, if you’re hunting for things to do in Malta and places to eat in Valletta, then Rampila should be a top priority.

Situated in the historic bastions and overlooking the entrance to the City of Valletta, Rampila serves mouth-watering meals for every palate — choose from fresh fish, Maltese goat cheese parcels, juicy steaks, and so much more.

But it’s far more than just a simple eatery; Rampila also boasts a fully-stocked bar, terrace, and educational exhibition.

44 – Jet ski around Malta

Feel the thrill of 100+ horsepower as you skid atop the waves, staring in awe at the coastline — that’s the experience you can expect if you rent a jet ski in Malta .

Whether you’re staying in Valetta, on the island of Gozo, or even visiting Comino for a day, there’s no shortage of rental options available.

45 – Go underground at the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum

One of the most impressive underground historical places to visit in Malta — scratch that, in all of Europe, the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum in Paola spans multiple levels, features countless chambers, and dates back all the way to 2500 B.C.

It’s the only known prehistoric underground temple in the world, and it’s not to be missed.

46 – Take a Scuba diving course

With warm, clear, and sea life-abundant waters surrounding the island(s), Malta serves as one of the best scuba diving locations in the Mediterranean.

Explore sunken shipwrecks, swim with colorful fish in the Bugibba reef, descend into the dark depths of the Blue Hole, or just learn the PADI basics — no matter your experience level, an unforgettable experience awaits.

• scuba diving in Malta

47 – Grab a ticket to the Isle of MTV Festival!

If you happen to be visiting this Mediterranean oasis in June or July, scratch everything off your bucket list and move the Isle of MTV Festival to the top!

This annual extravaganza brings world-famous artists from near and far (Martin Garrix, Rudimental, and Bebe Rexha, just to name a few), and over 50,000 screaming fans, creating an atmosphere unlike anything else.

48 – Visit the War Museum at Fort Sant’Elmo

It’s two amazing attractions for one at Fort Sant’Elmo!

On the one hand, as a former war stronghold and lookout, the fort now offers unobstructed panoramic views of the harbor and surrounding towns.

On the other hand, the building also hosts the National War Museum , a sublime exhibition of artifacts dating as far back as the prehistoric era.

As part of the British Commonwealth up until the country gained independence in 1964, Malta was heavily involved in WWII and acted as a gateway between Africa and Italy. As one of the most heavily bombed places during the war, many towns and ports were destroyed.

History buffs, if you’re particularly fascinated by the World Wars, consider an insightful Vittoriosa and Valletta Full Day Second World War Tour . During the educational and eye-opening venture, investigate fortresses, military bases, air raid shelters and wartime artifacts.

49 – Parasail over the island!

Catch Malta from an entirely new perspective: above!

Departing from Valletta, Sliema, or St. Julian’s, exciting parasailing flights typically last around 10 minutes.

With expert instructors controlling the sail and the rope, all you have to worry about is relaxing and enjoying the pristine bird’s eye views.

• parasailing in Valletta

50 – Eat dinner… in the sky!

It’s a meal, but unlike any that you’ve ever experienced before.

At Malta’s Dinner In The Sky , 22 (brave) guests take to the open air, soaring 40 meters above the rooftops thanks to a specially-constructed crane, where equally fantastic views and meals await.

Whether you’re a foodie, an adrenaline junkie, or both, it’s an unforgettable evening.

51 – Climb to the Top of the World’ viewpoint

Without a doubt one of the best things to do in Malta, the Top of the World viewpoint in Għargħur (close to Naxxar) depicts the diverse Maltese landscape in its most impressive light.

With terraced fields, rocky cliff faces, dry vegetation, and crashing blue waters all juxtaposed, expect a vista that can be described as no less than picture-perfect.

52 – Dine at the other great restaurants

Looking for a fabulous spot to fill your bellies? Across the island of Malta are some great restaurants to take your pick.

Built inside of a once-used windmill dating to the 17th century, Mitħna pays an ode to its location’s history, choosing to hero the humble wheat in every dish.

Ta’ Frenc has been around for more than 30 years and diners particularly love its grand villa setting.

Michelin-award-winning Guzé is set inside a 400-year-old building and focuses on presenting local flavors with contemporary flair and a bit of imagination. Speaking of, there are plenty of other Michelin winners to dine at.

Under Grain was one of the first restaurants on the island to receive the admired foodie accolade, and both Noni and Rampila boast ambient settings and excellent fare.

Couples, ION Harbour is one of the finest dining spots in town, with breathtaking views and an even dreamier menu.

53 – Join a stand-up paddleboarding tour

As a series of islands, there’s no shortage of opportunities to grab the board and go for a paddle in the beautiful Maltese waters.

No matter your skill level, there’s a place suitable for everyone — stand-up surf the breaking waves, glide calmly through the glowing caves around Gozo, or even explore the Valletta harbor by moonlight!

• stand up paddle in Malta

54 – Catch a show at the Manoel Theatre

An intricately-decorated performing arts venue that holds a rotating calendar of events, the Manoel Theatre has the claim to fame of being one of the oldest theatres in Europe, dating all the way back to 1731.

Thanks to its central Valletta location, it’s never too complicated to squeeze in a show.

55 – Sample all the cocktails at Thirsty Barber (Valletta)

Looking to wet your whistle? Keen to let your hair down and party a little?

Then Thirsty Barber , a notorious prohibition-style bar is ready to satisfy every single one of your beverage needs.

Thanks to their expert bartenders, this watering hole is regularly spoken of as the island’s premier cocktail destination, with the colorful drinks sure to light up any social media feed.

56 – Dance the night away at St. Julian’s

You’re on vacation, after all, so why not let your hair down a little?

For partying, dancing, and an endless supply of drinks, there’s no better place than St. Julian’s in Valletta.

The Chalice Bar and Lounge is a crowd favorite, while Thirsty Barber is known citywide for its cocktails.

Don’t feel like planning a night out? Just join a locally-led pub crawl! It’s an awesome way to meet like-minded travelers.

• pub crawls in Malta

57 – Get ready to party at Gianpula Club!

With nine different clubbing and partying venues all under the same address, the Gianpula Club is the one-stop-shop for a wild night out.

All of the clubs — some indoor, some outdoor; some high-energy, some more relaxed — vary their music, ensuring that no matter your taste or tempo, you’ll find something up your alley.

How to get to Malta?

Malta International Airport is around five kilometers from the main city, Valletta. Once you touch down on the island, save yourselves time and effort with pre-organized airport transfers .

You’ll also feel extra special landing in the Mediterranean with your private driver awaiting you at the airport, ready to transport you directly to your accommodation.

Where to stay in Malta?

As the largest of the three Maltese islands, take your pick from beachfront hotels, boutique stays and luxurious resorts.

Located on the Valletta waterfront, the classy Iniala Harbour House features balcony rooms with breathtaking views to wake to. It retains an air of old-school charm while boasting a contemporary stay.

Sporting a rooftop pool, and an indoor version, a stay at the Hyatt Regency Malta promises guests all the on-site facilities that you need for a five-star stay — and it’s just steps away from St George’s Bay Beach.

Head to the former ancient capital of Malta, Mdina and check into the stunning Xara Palace Boutique Hotel . Its lush interiors will sweep you off your feet.

Away from the crowds, escape to the 1926 Hotel & Spa with its private beachfront and secluded location.

Built inside a 17th-century building, Rosselli is in the center of town with both room and suite options available, and a great rooftop pool with views.

Bright and elegant and offering guests spacious rooms or suites with sea views, The Phoenicia Malta is a great pick for couples.

• best hotels in Malta

Visiting Malta on a budget?

Europe can be a pricey continent to travel to; saving money here and there can be well worth it in the long run, giving you more cash to spend on shopping and dining out.

One of the best tricks to saving extra dollars in Malta is opting for free walking tours . Joined by a local tour guide, be shown the streets of Valletta and some excursions even focus on the gastronomic and artsy side of the city.

Where to go next?

Once you’re done exploring Malta and its three major islands, consider some other convenient locations close by, thanks to Malta’s positioning.

In less than two hours, arrive at Italy’s southern coastline in nearby Sicily and there are public ferries or shorter rides via a private speedboat to transport you across the ocean. Make sure to check out the best boat trips in Sicily .

Alternatively, choose to fly directly into Sicily’s main capital where there are tons of fun things to do in Palermo , from exploring castles to charming local villages.

If this part of the world has stolen your heart, consider some of the other best places to visit in Europe like Paris, the Azores or Mallorca.

Final thoughts

So, are you ready for all of the island adventures, prehistoric sites and sunshine-filled days that Malta has to offer?

With so much to see of importance, and the many things to do in Malta, add this Mediterranean island to your travel bucket list.

Are there any special places you love to visit when traveling here? Let us know in the comments below.

Happy and safe travels!

The 15 Best Things to Do in Malta, the Mediterranean’s Most Underrated Destination

From ancient ruins and medieval fortresses to beautiful natural wonders, this tiny island nation has a lot to offer..

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There are many ways to get out on the water while in Malta.

Jessie Beck

Malta may be one of the smallest countries in the world, but it certainly doesn’t lack in things to do. The three-island archipelago is located a little over 100 mile south of Sicily in the Mediterranean and includes the islands of Malta, Gozo, and Comino. For such a small area, though, there are a surprising number of historic sites —ranging from megalithic temples said to date back to the 4th millennium B.C. to medieval fortresses and walled cities—and are a major draw for visitors. But activities in Malta are not limited to visiting relics of the past. The Mediterranean nation has natural wonders to explore (both above and below water), festivals to attend, and nightlife to partake in.

From rock climbing and swimming in the Mediterranean to wandering the ancient ruins of various centuries, here are some of the best things to do in Malta.

For getting to know Malta’s history and ancient past

The Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel is one of the most iconic landmarks in Valletta, Malta’s capital.

1. Spend a day exploring the city of Valletta and its landmarks

• Where : Valletta

Given Malta’s strategic location and succession of rulers—from the Romans, Normans, and Sicilians to the Spanish, Knights of St. John, French, and British—it’s somewhat surprising to find Valletta so well-preserved. The capital city dates back to the 16th century and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1980. When it was recognized as the European Capital of Culture in 2018, several historic landmarks, such as the city gate at the entrance to Valletta, underwent extensive restoration. When visiting save a day for wandering the city to see such landmarks as:

Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel : At nearly 138 feet high, the dome of the Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel looms large on the city skyline. Although the church itself dates back to 1570, it was badly damaged during World War II and only reopened in its current form in 1981 after 23 years of rebuilding.

St. John’s Co-Cathedral : The church is named a co-cathedral because the bishop of Malta also sits at St. Paul’s Cathedral in Mdina. One of the world’s must-visit churches, it features a glittering gold interior that represents the pinnacle of high baroque architecture, plus eight chapels dedicated to the eight branches of the Knights of Malta. History buffs will want to explore the crypt, while art lovers will appreciate the ceiling frescoes by Mattia Preti. Tickets include entrance to the attached museum.

2. Visit the National Museum of Archaeology

Housed in the baroque Auberge de Provence, the National Museum of Archaeology features a collection dating as far back as 5200 B.C., during the Neolithic period. Through such objects as delicate stone tools and Phoenician amulets, it provides a solid introduction to Malta’s prehistoric history and adds context to many of the historical sites around the island. It’s a perfect starting point for a tour of Valletta, and the small museum is easily be explored in an hour.

The Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta are a lovely place to walk and enjoy the views.

McPHOTO / OPR

3. Upper Barrakka Gardens

One of Valletta’s most scenic spots, the Upper Barrakka Gardens has memorable views of the Grand Harbour, the fortified cities of Senglea and Birgu across the harbor, and the shipyards below. Every day at noon, members of the Malta Heritage Society dress in British military uniforms and fire a ceremonial gun [cannon] salute. Visitors can stroll by beautiful fountains, and there is plenty of manicured green space for picnics. Take an elevator which connects the gardens to the Valletta waterfront, or perhaps ride the elevator at dusk to watch the sun setting over the city’s rooftops and the Mediterranean.

History buffs won’t want to miss the Lascaris War Rooms, a collection of tunnels and chambers 150 feet beneath the Upper Barrakka Gardens, that served as the secret headquarters for Allied operations during World War II. Commanders stationed here oversaw some of the most ambitious campaigns in the Mediterranean, including the 1943 invasion of Sicily. After the war, the War Rooms were used by the Mediterranean fleet of the Royal Navy.

4. Go back in time in the medieval town of Mdina

Travel back in time with a visit to the walled city of Mdina.

• Where : Mdina

Plan to spend at least an afternoon wandering the streets of the walled city of Mdina (also known as the Silent City), which was founded in the 8th century A.D. and served as the nation’s capital until medieval times. These days fewer than 100 people live in Mdina, though the walled city remains a popular tourist attraction. After your visit, make a stop at Coogi’s Restaurant & Tea Garden for lunch or a quick drink while enjoying views of the surrounding farms on the other side of the city’s walls.

Game of Thrones fans will be interested to know that Mdina was one of many filming locations for the series.

5. Tour St. Paul’s Catacombs

• Where : Rabat

Located on the outskirts of Mdina in Rabat, St. Paul’s Catacombs are an homage to Paul the apostle. Paul and 274 others were shipwrecked just off Malta around 60 A.D. on their way to Rome . Legend has it that the survivors took refuge in a grotto, above which a church and monument were later built in the apostle’s honor. The Catacombs, which represent the earliest evidence of Christianity in Malta, are a labyrinthine set of underground cemeteries. Covering an area of over 21,000 square feet, the catacombs twist and turn with dozens of hypogea (chambers) once used for burials.

The Neolithic Cittadella once served as the center of life on Gozo.

Photo by Shutterstock

6. Explore the Cittadella

• Where : Victoria, Gozo

The site of the Cittadella on the island of Gozo is thought to have been inhabited since Neolithic time and more certainly by the Bronze Age. The land was used by the Romans for a settlement. The Cittadella is a fortified citadel, which overlooks Gozo’s current capital of Victoria.

A walk through the striking limestone structure is a must when visiting Gozo. While wandering the grounds, notice the holy shrines under the Norman-style arches and the doors adorned with a coat of arms. Up on the ramparts, you’ll find a 360-degree view of Gozo’s hills, valleys, and villages, with the Mediterranean in the distance. There are also various on-site churches and museums to visit, such as the cave-like Gunpowder Magazine, where gunpowder was stored in the late 17th and 18th centuries.

Other nearby historic sites worth a stop in Gozo include the ornate St. George’s Basilica , which tops the hill at the heart of Victoria and the baroque Cathedral of the Assumption, enclosed within the walls of the Cittadella.

These UNESCO-protected temples are more than 5,500 years old.

7. The Ggantija Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Where : Gozo

The Ggantija Temples , named after the Maltese word for “giant,” are the oldest and most impressive of the megalithic temples in the Maltese islands. Built during the Neolithic period from coralline limestone, the ruins are more than 5,500 years old, predating Stonehenge—and even the pyramids of Egypt. This UNESCO World Heritage site was recently restored; it is visitor friendly with walkways and a new center featuring displays of prehistoric artifacts from across Gozo.

For experiencing Malta’s more current culture, food, and nightlife

8. Shop for gifts and snacks on and near Merchants Street

Stalls at the busy Merchants Street Market, which is open every morning of the week, sell traditional Maltese crafts alongside bargain clothing, jewelry, and other gifts. Right off Merchants Street is the Is-Suq Tal-Belt Valletta Food Market, an indoor collection of food stalls ideal for sampling Maltese food . Swing by Lot 61 Coffee Roasters across the street from the food market for a cup of some of the best brew in the city.

9. Watch live music at Bridge Bar or Cafe Society

Valletta by day may be all about sightseeing and jostling with crowds of day-trippers from docked cruise ships, but nighttime in the capital city is an entirely different experience. On warm nights in particular, the nightlife spills out from the city’s bars and restaurants onto the streets. On these evenings, join the locals lounging on city steps and enjoy a drink and live music at establishments like Bridge Bar or Cafe Society .

Birgu Fest allows visitors a rare chance to explore the city of Birgu by candlelight.

10. Attend a festival

• Where : Nationwide

It’s easy to time a visit to Malta with a festival, thanks to a diverse calendar of events . For a more traditional cultural experience, time your trip for “ festa season ”—a series of extended weekends that runs from the end of May to September—when towns and villages throughout Malta celebrate the feast of their respective patron saints with papier-mâché statues, Maltese delicacies, and fireworks.

However, some of the more standout events worth planning a trip around include Birgu Fest and Notte Bianca , both annual festivals that take place in October. Birgu Fest is a festival in which the entire old city of Vittoriosa, also known as Birgu, turns off all of its lights and illuminates the city’s ancient walls and cobblestone streets by candlelight. Notte Bianca, also a nighttime festival, takes place in Valletta but is more focused on music and partying than the romance of candlelight. If you happen to visit in February, grab a costume and head to Nadur, Gozo, for its macabre Carnival celebrations .

For getting out to see Malta’s natural beauty

The Blue Lagoon is one of Malta’s most stunning natural wonders.

11. Take a boat tour to the Blue Grotto or Blue Lagoon

• Where : Qrendi (Malta) or Comino

No trip to Malta would be complete without an excursion on the Mediterranean, and one of the most enjoyable ways to experience it is with a boat tour. If you’re short on time, take a taxi or drive to the coastal town of Qrendi, where you can hop on a quick 30-minute boat tour to the Blue Grotto, an oceanside cave. If you have at least a day to spare, it’s worthwhile to sign up for a longer boat tour to see the Blue Lagoon, located on the uninhabited island of Comino, which is the archipelago’s smallest. There are both day and half-day trips to the Blue Lagoon and Comino departing from either Valletta or Gozo.

Salted marshes carved in the rock. Gozo island. Malta.

Sylvain Grandadam/© Sylvain Grandadam

12. Walk along the Xwejni Salt Pans on Gozo

• Where : Qbajjar Bay, Gozo

On the northern coast of Gozo, visitors can get a fascinating introduction to one of the island’s most important traditions: sea salt production. Just past Qbajjar Bay is a nearly two-mile stretch of 350-year-old salt pans, which remain a vital source of income for Gozitans to this day. In the summer, locals scrape up salt crystals, and store them in nearby caves for later use. Several Gozitan businesses package the salt in gift jars, which are available for purchase in many of the island’s souvenir stores.

Wied il-Għasri is a calm canyon ideal for hiking and swimming on Gozo’s northern coast.

13. Take a scenic drive on Gozo

Gozo is mostly an agrarian island, so you won’t find any big cities here. Instead, focus on exploring the outdoors, and in particular the seaside cliffs and rock formations, scattered about the island. The most famous is the Azure Window, a rock archway that collapsed in 2017 . Even so, visitors still flock to the location to see its remnants. Equally stunning, though less well-known, are Wied il-Għasri a beautiful sea canyon you can hike to and swim in and Wied Il-Mielaħ a (still-standing) natural rock arch perched above the sea, both of which are on the north coast of Gozo.

14. Go for a swim in the Mediterranean

• Where : Various

You won’t find many white, sandy beaches on Malta or its two smaller islands, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t any great areas for swimming and beach days—quite the opposite. Grab a beach blanket or towel and spread out on the rocks at Paradise Bay, Wied Iż-Żurrieq, or St. Peter’s Pool in Malta. If you’re on Gozo, head to Xlendi. If you go to St. Peter’s Pool, end your day with a seafood meal in Marsaxlokk at casual eatery Skuna or the slightly more upscale restaurant Tartarun . On Sundays, the town has its weekly fish market. Though often touted as a great tourist attraction in Malta, it’s okay to skip unless you’re buying fish to cook later.

15. Rock climb its coastal cliffs

Malta’s seaside cliffs may not always be great for lounging, but they are excellent for rock climbing. If you’d like to try your hand at this adventurous sport, sign up for a tour with Gozo Adventures in Gozo or MC Adventure in Malta. The guides with both tour companies are very experienced and friendly, and have options suitable for all levels—from total newbies to experienced outdoor climbers.

Sara Lieberman contributed to the reporting of this story.

Insane 30 Top Things to Do in Malta 2021

When planning for a trip to Europe, Malta is a destination you cannot afford to overlook. Indeed, this tiny Mediterranean island has plenty of resources to offer to any visitor.

We have been there, and it is best to be on the island from July to August. A bit hot, you may say, but that is best.

You can even swim at Gozo and take the small boat day tours there.

Table of Contents

Things to do in Malta

Malta may lack space and prominence, but is nonetheless packed with a host of tourism resources. 

We are here to aid you in making an affirmative decision over the issue.

Thus, we have carried out some extensive research on the various resources this tiny, yet beautiful tropical island has to offer.

We are going to offer some explanations on these resources here-under. The food is nice too.

The main reason you would love Malta is its mix of cultures. The architecture will remind you of the Arabic culture.

The Maltese language is a Semitic language derived from Siculo-Arabic; however, a majority of vocabulary comes from Sicilian and Italian.

Here are 30 things to do in Malta . Don’t forget to book your travel insurance  and check flight prices with Skyscanner . By the way, do visit the Popeye village!

Take a Walk at the Comino Islet

Comino doubles up as both an islet and an iconic lagoon. It is wholly made of limestone and doubles up as a bird sanctuary.

Moreover, it is also the home of the world-famous Blue Lagoon. On the island are numerous buildings of antiquity such as the 17th-century chapel and tower.

You may consider taking a walk on the islet.

While at it, you will get bombarded continuously by the fresh and gentle breezes originating from the adjacent Mediterranean Sea.

You will also get to take photos which you can keep for your future remembrance.

Immerse yourself at the Blue Lagoon Paradise

By far the most beautiful spot in Malta, the Blue Lagoon (in Comino) is a paradise on earth. It features blue, calm waters that are nearly detached from the rest of the Mediterranean Sea.

It is by far the leading tourist attraction in the island and particularly great for snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming.

If you are that kind of a person who fancies these water sports, you may spare some of your time to try them out at the lagoon.

You will enjoy great companionship from the other tourists who equally matter.

Gaze at the Azure Window

The ‘Azure Window’ is strictly speaking, not a window. Instead, it is a cliff that has been eroded and turned into an arch.

It is also called Dwejra Window and measures a whopping 28 meters in height. By its sheer in appearance and construction, it is breathtaking to behold indeed.

While in Malta, you may stand next to it and gaze at its natural beauty. Of course, you may also use it as a photo background.

Being one of the iconic natural landmarks of Malta, it could as well be the only proof that you indeed visited Malta.

Kill time at the Saint John’s Co-Cathedral

This 16th-century high baroque cathedral is a silent reminder of Malta’s past Christian heritage.

It is elaborately adorned and serves as a place of worship. By its nature and construction, the cathedral features marbles and European masters.

Spare some of your time while in Malta to visit this magnificent architectural masterpiece.

On weekdays, you may hang around the building for the sake of killing time. On Sundays, you may pop in to worship with others.

Ask questions from the tour guide concerning its role in Malta’s Christian past.

Explore some history at the Megalithic Temples of Malta

Combining the role of a temple, ancient historical site, and pre-historic structure, the Temples of Malta is a must-visit destination.

These temples are the oldest buildings in the world . They were constructed between 3600 BC and 700 BC.

Your visit to the beautiful island of Malta is thus incomplete without a stopover at these temples.

While at them, you may consider exploring some history by asking relevant questions from the tour guides.

They are also great for photography and general relaxation. Arm yourself with a camera as well.

Explore Malta’s spiritual heritage at the Tarxien Temples

Owing to its religious heritage, Malta indeed has no shortage of temples and other places of worship. The Tarxien Temples are yet another set of the megalithic kind .

They date back to 3600 B.C. At the moment, only four of the original structures persist. They have richly decorated reliefs, stone blocks, and statues.

A visit to these temples will give you yet another opportunity to explore the spiritual heritage of Malta.

You will also learn a bit about Malta’s history and take excellent pictures. That is not to mention that you shall have the chance to relax as well.

Peek at Malta’s rich historical heritage at the Ħaġar Qim

Also conferring the great benefit of historical value is the Ħaġar Qim.

That is an ancient temple ruin that dates from 3200 BC. The complex of the ruins has apses and is hailed as “unique architectural masterpieces” by the UNESCO World Heritage site .

By paying a visit to these temple ruins, you will get the rare opportunity to peek at the history of Malta. That is because the temple played a vital role in Malta’s past.

It therefore also assists you in accomplishing some scholarly feats. Do take some photos as well.

Grand Harbour in Valleta

For well over 2,000 years, the Grand Harbour has served as a port of entry for goods and international visitors to Malta.

It also doubles up as a great tourist destination owing to its scenic and breathtaking views. That is not to mention the strategic role it played in shield Malta from military invasions.

In light of the above resources, you must spare some of your time to visit the harbor.

By standing strategically at the port, you will get to observe the surrounding environments. You will get to gaze at the beauty and even capture snapshots.

Visit Ħal-Saflieni Hypogeum

Are you a history enthusiast? If I heard you answer in the affirmative, do spend some of your time at the Ħal-Saflieni Hypogeum.

That is a multilevel underground excavated prehistoric burial site that is on the island. It was actively in use in 4000 BCE.

Inside the burial site are intricate carvings and wall paintings.

They are breathtaking to gaze upon and also provide excellent opportunities for photography.

Moreover, they also serve as a reminder of what ancient Malta used to be like. Your visit to the place shall bring these pleasant memories back to life.

Blue Grotto

Accessible exclusively by boat, the Blue Grotto is a natural attraction.

It comprises a series of caverns that blend well with the adjacent scenic and coastal surroundings.

These features jointly confer picturesque views and are also not so far from several fishing beaches.

The Blue Grotto is a ‘must visit’ if you are a lover of nature and everything to do with landforms.

While on the caverns, you will also get to enjoy the fresh breath of the adjacent sea breezes. That is not to forget capturing photos and videos.

Sunbathe and Dine at the Ramla Bay

Even though Malta is mainly famed for history, it is also a great tourism destination. Perhaps one of the best resources for the job is Ramla Bay.

This bay contains some sandy beaches that are interspersed with Roman ruins. The sand is mainly reddish and is excellent to relax in.

Right next to the bay are a series of bars and restaurants. These serve hot local cuisines and drinks. You may want to stop by and spend some time to relax. You will also fall in love with its relaxed atmosphere.

Rest at the Ġgantija Temples

These temples are two well-preserved Neolithic temples. They also play the role of visitor centers.

These temples are mainly made of limestone and are among the world’s oldest monuments of their kind. They are touted to be older than the pyramids of Egypt.

Owing to their sheltered and secure locations, these temples are mainly magnificent for relaxation.

That is why you should consider resting in and around them as part of your Maltese visit. They still serve historical benefits, though.

Scuba dive at the Ċirkewwa

By its location in the Mediterranean Sea and being sheltered from the harsh waves, the entire island of Malta is excellent for scuba diving.

No other place within the island offers this opportunity better than the Ċirkewwa ocean harbor.

While in Malta, take off your garments, put on your swimming costumes, and immerse yourself in the cold yet calm waters.

Being safe, it is also suitable for regular swimming. The area is also adjacent to the ferry terminal and is therefore great for traveling out of the island.

Take Photos at the Mnajdra Temple Complex

If all you fancy in your visits is photography, then the Mnajdra is a location you cannot overlook.

That is a megalithic limestone complex that occupies the heartland of Malta.

It is estimated to be around 5,000 years of age and preserves the history of the island.

Its ruins are great for photography. By being iconic and easily recognized, they also serve as proof that you indeed visited the island at some point.

That is why you have to stop by and take photos of the area.

Stretch yourself out at the Upper Barrakka Gardens

After a hard and busy day, you might want to rewind by detaching yourself from the rest of the city.

The Upper Barrakka Gardens are perhaps your most convenient destination of choice. These gardens are scenic and confer some panoramic views.

They are also spacious and not congested.

You will thus enjoy relaxing at the gardens and breathing some fresh air. The gardens also provide an excellent opportunity for photography.

So, carry your camera along with you. You will also be able to capture other famous landmarks from the area.

Walk Fort Saint Elmo

Malta was embroiled in World War II though not directly. The Fort Saint Elmo served as a shelter to the soldiers who were stationed on the island.

It is however mainly renowned for its role in ‘the Great Siege of Malta’ in 1565.

It was subsequently converted into a war museum after World War II.

If you want to learn the history of Malta, especially with regard to matters of war, this is the place to visit. You will get a chance to ask questions and take pictures.

Enjoy your time at the Casa Rocca Piccola

Once home to the noble Maltese family, Casa Rocca Piccola is now a museum in Valletta. It reached its peak in the 1580s and is today primarily abandoned.

The building is nevertheless severed and cared for. You will receive daily briefs and free tours in its complexity as you visit.

It does have some restaurants nearby where you may also pop in and take some local cuisines. That is a place you want to visit just for fun.

Its free nature and breathtaking ambiance shall significantly enhance your trip.

Swim and dive at the Inland Sea, Gozo

Gozo is yet another location in Malta where you might swim and scuba dive. It is a lagoon but provides excellent scuba diving opportunities.

It is invariably called Qawra and is sheltered from the rough waves of the open sea. The lake also connects to the open sea via an arch.

You should consider branching to this location to swim or dive. The lagoon is hardly visited and is therefore spacious enough.

You might want to visit it with your spouse owing to the significant privacy you will enjoy.

Visit National Museum of Archaeology, Malta

No other location or facility grants you the opportunity to peek at Malta’s past better than the National Museum of Archaeology.

The museum hosts a collection of various artifacts both contemporary and ancient. They touch on every aspect of Malta’s history, culture, and geography.

Get in the facility and take a look at the various exhibits on display.

You will also get to talk to the curators and even capture snapshots of the exhibits. Being visual, you will live to memorialize those exhibits for quite some time to come.

Relieve Malta’s past at Fort St. Angelo

Originally a medieval castle, this is now a historical ruin. It is strategically located right next to the sea and confers scenic views and historical displays.

It is located right at the center of the Grand harbor. The structure is mainly significant for viewing the adjacent sea.

Other than this, you will also get to relive the history of the nation of Malta by visiting it.

That is because it comprises a couple of exhibits that are all great to view and behold. Remember also to carry your camera as you might need to take plenty of photos.

Appreciate Malta’s Christian heritage at the Ta’ Pinu

As hinted above, Malta has a significant Christian past. That is due to its role in nurturing Christianity in its formative years.

As such, it is home to many ruins of ancient churches and places of worship. One such is the Catholic basilica.

This is a shrine that also offers excellent views to some resources and spots within the island.

You will, by spending some time at the facility, appreciate the rich Christian heritage of Malta.

You will also capture great shots of the ambient ocean beside taking photos.

Wine and dine at the Valletta Waterfront

Malta has no shortage of eateries and restaurants. Indeed, the entire island is dotted with numerous cafes, restaurants, and serveries.

By far the most active and strategic of these is the Valletta waterfront. This is an old port that now serves as the dining district.

It is lined with a series of bars, restaurants, and eateries.

This is the place to stop by to take water, food, and other beverages and is directly opposite some iconic structures and buildings.

You will find it is also great for viewing the ships and other seamarks.

Bond at the Cominotto

Cominotto is a scenic white sandy beach.

The area is clean and sheltered from the rest of the island. It is also set in the middle of a picturesque bay and is mostly uninhabited.

Because of this, it offers excellent privacy and is hence suitable for couples who simply want some time off.

In case you are going through some rough time in your marriage, do convince your spouse to accompany you to this place. The two of you shall find some quiet time to talk through your marital woes candidly.

Enjoy music at the Manoel Theatre

Are you passionate about music, drama, and live performances? Malta has you catered for.

It does have plenty of theaters, opera houses, and concert venues for your consideration.

Of these, the Manoel Theatre, which is both a theatre and an opera is the most outstanding.

To be able to enjoy music and opera, you will have to schedule your visit to coincide with the performances.

Just log on to the official website of the opera house moments before traveling. Otherwise, you are in for great performances indeed.

Understand Malta’s past Christian history at the St. Paul’s Cathedral, Mdina

Malta, as has been stated repeatedly, played a crucial role in nurturing Christianity in its formative stages.

Built from 1696–1705, this baroque Catholic Church has paintings and is dedicated to St. Paul, the apostle.

It has engravings, artworks, and frescoes, all of which are beautiful.

If you find the time, detour to the church and spend some of your time at the facility. Take some photos and keep them with you. You will also get to ask questions from the tour guides and learn the rich Christian past of Malta.

Gaze at the Grand Harbour from the Lower Barrakka Gardens

The Grand Harbour is the busiest and by far the most significant facility of Malta. As explained above, the harbor is also great to behold over and above, merely facilitating the loading and off-loading cargo.

The Lower Barrakka Gardens offer you a high vantage point to view the harbor.

It is also a small park that has several gardens, flowers, sculptures, and monuments.

You will also have a chance to capture lovely photos and relax from your full schedules. Take some time off to relax as well while here.

Take some time off at the St. Paul’s Catacombs

Apostle Paul was not buried in Malta. However, he has a catacomb that is wholly dedicated to him. The St. Paul catacomb, which is located in Malta is the one.

It is an expansive Roman burial complex that mainly served as the resting place of early persecuted Christians.

It is mainly underground and is also rich in history. You definitely do not want to miss out on it.

Your visit to the place will add account and quench your curiosity for prior knowledge. You definitely want to capture snapshots of the area.

Photograph the Rotunda of Mosta

One last silent reminder of Malta’s Christian past is the Rotunda. This is basically a neoclassical church that has a famous dome.

It is dedicated to the Assumption of Mary. A visit to the rotunda shall get to familiarize you with the tremendous Christian past of the nation of Malta.

Its breathtaking appearance, excellent background, and impressive architecture all combine to make it great for photography. Do consider taking pictures of the structure as you visit.

Visit the National War Museum

Also relieving Malta’s past turbulent times is this National Museum. Officially opened in 1975, this facility showcases Malta’s military history.

It contains numerous artifacts and exhibits for the job. It is situated in Fort Saint Elmo and is thus easily accessible.

This is a facility you must visit if you are a scholar of history. It provides visible reminders of Malta’s past military involvements and is, therefore, a great teaching aid.

You should also carry your digital camera with you as you will take several photos.

San Anton Palace

Initially constructed for Antoine de Paule who was a knight of the Order of St. John, San Anton Palace is the official residence of the president of Malta.

It is both a palace and a garden at the same time. It is rich in history and culture. Due to this, it is excellent for photography and relaxation.

Access to the facility is severely restricted. You have to place an expression of interest earlier and have your request pre-approved.

It is after this that you might be allowed to visit it. You do not want to bypass the facility, do you?

Guided Tours in Malta

You can do all by yourself, you know. However if you want to be transferred everywhere with a guide explaining all the things to see, or if you like great discounts then click these links below.

• 10-Day Malta Discount Card: 50% Off Top Attractions
• Full-Day Gozo Island Excursion from Malta
• Blue Grotto & Sunday Market at Marsaxlokk Fishing Village
• Malta: 3-Hour Guided Segway Adventure Tour
• The Best Traditional 2 Harbours Day Cruise of Malta

What is the Best Place to Stay in Malta?

As always, it depends on what you are looking for. Here is a range of ideas per accessible location in Malta.

Buġibba, Qawra, St. Paul’s Bay areas

• db San Antonio Hotel + Spa  (fairly modern hotel (4*) for tight budgets)
• Seashells Resort at Suncrest (for families)
• Parklane Aparthotel  (for families)
• Il Palazzin Hotel (clean accommodation at reasonable prices)
• Qawra Palace Hotel (good for families, similar to Seashells)
• Salini Resort (far from the hustle but in a good position)
• The Palace  (5-star luxury hotel)
• Pebbles Boutique Aparthotel  (beautiful views across the harbor of Valletta)
• Victoria Hotel  (affordable hotel at less than €100/night, at the older and quieter part of town)
• Waterfront Hotel  (affordable at less than €100/night, 4-star hotel, along the promenade)
• Preluna Hotel & Spa  (affordable at less than €100/night)

St. Julian’s and Paceville

• Hilton Malta
• InterContinental Malta
• Marina Hotel Corinthia Beach Resort
• Radisson Blu Resort
• The Westin Dragonara Resort
• Radisson Blu Resort & Spa , Malta Golden Sands
• Maritim Antonine Hotel & Spa
• db Seabank Resort & Spa
• Ramla Bay Resort
• Mellieha Bay Hotel
• Pergola Club Hotel & Spa
• Solana Hotel & Spa
• Casa Ellul (boutique hotel)
• Palazzo Consiglia (boutique hotel)
• Palazzo Paolina (boutique hotel)
• Saint John (boutique hotel)
• Barrakka Suites (boutique hotel)
• Hotel Grand Excelsior Malta (5-Star)
• Phoenicia Hotel (5-Star)
• Osborne Hotel (3-Star)
• Il-Loġġa Boutique Hotel
• Kempinski San Lawrenz
• Hotel Ta` Cenc
• Calypso Hotel
• San Andrea Hotel (budget)
• Downtown Hotel (budget)

Malta shopping: What to Buy

• Refreshing Maltese  beverages
• Traditional  crafts : Ganutell wire flowers
• Delicious  pear products
• Beautiful Mdina Glass
• Beautiful  lace : bizzilla
• Fascinating filigree
• More-ish Gozo  cheese
• Tasty  bigilla dip
• The ‘sleeping lady’ figurine

Best Beaches in Malta

• Ta’ Fra Ben (Qawra Point)
• Armier Bay and Little Armier
• Paradise Bay
• The Blue Lagoon
• St. Peter’s Pool
• Imġiebaħ Bay
• Mellieħa Bay / Ghadira
• Għajn Tuffieħa

Malta Weather per Season

Malta is one of the warmest countries in Europe since it locates south of Sicily. It consists of three islands: the main island Malta, Gozo, and Comino. The average temperature is 23 °C (73 °F) during the day & 16 °C (61 °F) during the night.

The coldest month is January, and warmest in the month of August. Due to Malta’s location, summer can last up to 7 months, from April to the end of October.

Malta weather in January and February

These are the coldest and windiest months. Temperatures range from 9 to 15 °C.

Malta weather in March and April

Temperatures are higher than in previous months, but mostly during the day. Nights are still cold. You may experience heat and intense sun during day time while needing a jacket at night.

Malta weather in May and June

Summer mode is on! Slight backdrops may occur, and you will need a mix of clothes to cope with sudden changes. These two months are best for many to visit Malta due to that weather pattern.

Malta weather in July and August

High temperatures and humidity too. If you rent a car, make sure you get one with air condition. Buses of Malta are kinda picturesque, which means old. We mean it. It is really hot, and the sun is extreme.

Malta weather in September and October

Slowly it gets colder again. Perhaps the best time for swimming and visiting Malta, after May and June. Weather can be unpredictable though, especially as the end of October approaches.

Malta weather in November and December

The cold makes a strong presence (not like January and February). Jackets will be needed, but sunglasses should be handy too. That is Malta after all.

Conclusion on Things to Do in Malta

Needless to say, there are numerous things to do in Malta along with attractions that we inevitably had to leave out owing to the limited space and time at our disposal.

Feel free to carry on from where we have left, especially if you find the list above lacking some of your favorite destinations.

Malta is, indeed, a grand tourism haven. You must purpose to pay a visit at least once to it in your lifetime. You do not want to enjoy the information alone.

That is why we urge you to spread this news far and wide. All the best as you purpose to plan a visit to the nation!

By the way, Italy (with Sicily) is nearby. Why not combine such. Click to read for Italy, all the things to do in Sicily too.

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48-Hour Itinerary

Must-Try Food

Best Restaurants

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Malta International Airport Guide

Best Hotels

Top Things to Do in Malta

Top Things to Do in Valletta

Best Museums

Adventurous Things to Do in Malta

The Most Adventurous Things to Do in Malta

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Located 50 miles off the coast of Italy in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, Malta is an island nation known for its warm weather, beautiful coasts, and unique countryside. Look a little deeper however and you'll also discover a rich culture and a fascinating history that dates back more than 7000 years. During that time, the island was inhabited by the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Greeks, Romans, French, British, and others.

All of this helps to make Malta an amazing travel destination that can astound and delight visitors of all types. But the island nation is also a surprisingly great options for the more adventurous traveler as well. Whether you're looking for adrenaline-inducing thrills or unique physical challenges, chances are you'll find exactly what you're looking for in Malta.

Scuba Dive and Snorkel the Mediterranean

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Malta is surrounded by warm, crystal clear Mediterranean waters all year round, making it one of the world's most popular destinations for scuba divers and snorkelers. The archipelago's abundant reefs, caves, and shipwrecks offer plenty of interesting formations for beginner and advanced divers to explore. In fact, there is so much to see and do below the surface of the ocean that many of the great dive sites are accessible right from the shore , not requiring the use of a boat at all.

The biggest attraction for divers is without a doubt the Blue Hole, which is found off the west coast of Gozo, one of the islands that makes up the Malta Archipelago. This crystal clear geological window gives undersea visitors a unique view of the world around them, with plenty of sea creatures to spot along the way.

Sail the Deep Blue Sea

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Thanks to its strategic location at the epicenter of the Mediterranean , Malta has always had a long and rich sailing history. Today, that continues in the form of chartered options for travelers, giving them the ability to spend a day or a week exploring the islands that make up the country, many of which are uninhabited and seldom visited.

Malta Sailing Experiences can help you get out on the sea to enjoy the tranquil waters found just off the coast, offering both day and night time excursions. For those looking for a deeper experience however, Fairwind Sailing is a good option. The instructors there can give visitors some introductory lessons for handling their ship, allowing budding sailors a chance to learn the ropes and hone their skills.

Explore the Island by Bike

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Cycling the roads of Malta is a common practice and since the island isn't particularly large, it is easy to get to just about anywhere by bike. In fact, there are some incredibly unique cycling routes that can be found on Malta and Gozo, each of which offers relatively easy riding, fantastic views, and access to outstanding locales both near the coast and further inland.

All told, there are more than 600 miles of bike routes to explore , making Malta a haven for cycling fans. And when you get bored of riding the roads, head up into the hills on a mountain bike instead.

There are numerous cycling shops available across the islands, making it easy to not only rent a bike, but to also get instructions on where to go and what to see. Many of the shops even offer group tours, which can be beneficial when you're first getting your bearings.

Go for a Hike in the Malta Countryside

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If you're looking to stretch your legs and go for a walk, Malta, and its companion islands, have plenty of trails to offer. Some of those treks will take you past dramatic cliffs, around scenic beaches, or into surprisingly deep canyons and gorges. Others wander through quiet villages, around a variety of historical sites, and over rolling hills that look out onto the sea.

Whether you're looking for just a day hike or a longer backpacking excursion, there is plenty to discover on the Maltese islands. Popular routes include a 5 mile walk through Ramla Bay on Gozo, which includes ancient ruins and buildings to explore, and the Blue Lagoon Loop on Comino that takes visitors past its gorgeous namesake body of water. There are literally dozens of other paths to discover however, with plenty of options for both serious hikers and beginners alike.

Go Canoeing or Kayaking on the Mediterranean

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With so much beautiful coastline to explore, not to mention a number of tiny islands to visit, Malta makes a great destination for kayakers and paddleboarders looking to get out on the water. Some of the hidden coves and beaches can only be reached by boat, which makes paddling an amazing way to see some of the more secluded sections of the archipelago.

There are numerous kayak and canoe rental locations on Malta and her sister islands, not to mention guides who are ready, willing, and able to give you the grand tour by boat. For example, Kayak Gozo leads daily outings to the Blue Lagoon, while Sea Kayak Malta leads both day trips and overnight camping excursions. You'll even find instructors that can teach you the finer points of handling a kayak out on the ocean before turning you loose to explore on your own.

Go Rock Climbing

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With its towering cliffs and rocky hillsides, Malta is a mecca for rock climbers not just from Europe, but the world over. In fact, there are more than 1,300 named and charted climbs throughout the islands, providing everything from simple, beginner routes to incredibly challenging crags that will test the even the best climbers.

The sheer diversity of climbs is impressive too. Not only will you find plenty of trad and sport climbing opportunities, but visitors can also go deep-water soloing and bouldering too.

The Malta Rock Climbing Club is a great place to pick up some beta before you head out to a route. The club has been around for decades and its members are well versed in the variety and location of climbs throughout the archipelago.

Get Your Blood Pumping on a Zip Line

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If you've never been zip lining before — or just want to go again — Malta is a great place to give this adventurous activity a go.The island has a number of different options for those looking to get their adrenaline rush, including the Valletta 300 and the Mosta 250 . Many of the local zip lines soar across large canyons or open gorges, providing a great sense of height and speed that will leave your heart pounding and knees weak. Once the fast and furious ride is finished, you'll want to do it all over again, this time soaking in the impressive scenery as you go.

Learn to Fly

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Getting your pilots license requires spending hours in the cockpit and classroom, learning the challenges and intricacies of handling a modern aircraft. But in Malta, you can get behind the controls of an airplane on your very first trial flight, giving you a sense of what it takes to become a real pilot.

Thanks to its fantastic weather all year round, Malta is an excellent place to learn to fly. Of course, most visitors won't be there long enough to actually earn their full pilot's license, but even on your first trial run you can get a chance to take over the controls of a plane, maneuvering it across the skies.

There are a surprising number of flying schools to choose from — such as Buzz Flying — many of which offer test flights for a nominal fee. Those flights provide a fantastic view of the islands below, not to mention the incredibly blue waters of the Mediterranean as well.

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25 best things to do in malta [full 2024 travel guide].

Malta is a small but beautiful country nestled in between Africa and Italy.

It’s a country bursting with history, beauty and amazing things to see and do.

In fact, it's since become one of our favourite backpacking destinations !

Bradley and I spent 1 month in Malta, so we definitely had the chance to truly explore all the amazing things this country has to offer.

So if you’re wondering “Is Malta worth visiting?” then let us convince you as we offer you a guide on the best things to do in Malta!

How to get to Malta

Getting to Malta is pretty easy and transport links are very easy! Based on our experiences, here’s how you can get to Malta from some of the most popular locations.

Getting to Malta from the rest of Europe

If you’re living in the UK, Italy, Spain, Germany, and elsewhere in Europe, then you can usually get direct flights to Malta with Ryanair, Easyjet, Lufthansa, or Malta Air. Check Skyscanner for the best prices. 

You can also get a ferry/boat to Malta from Italy if you wish to drive there yourself. 

Getting to Malta from the rest of the world

If heading to Malta from the USA, Australia, or anywhere else, chances are you’ll need to get a flight to a larger European country, then get a connecting flight to Malta. Again you can check Skyscanner for the best prices. 

Getting around Malta

When it comes to getting around Malta, you’ve got a variety of different options. I’ll explain them briefly here, but for full details, check out my complete guide on getting around Malta .

• ‍ Hire a car : This is one of the popular options to explore beautiful Malta. Car rental is cheap and useful. What’s weird in Malta is that it’s the smaller local companies are more trustworthy than the big companies like Hertz, Avis etc. We chose the highest rated car company, which happens to be a lovely local company called Compass Car Rental and they offered fuss-free car rental for a great price. Of course you can also check Rental Cars for both local and national car rental companies and the best prices.  ‍
• Buses: Malta actually has a really well developed bus network and you can get to most of the major cities via public transport. There is a schedule in place, but it doesn’t really run exactly. And it can take a bit of time to get from A to B as the bus stops at many different stops. BUT if you’re not in a rush, then it’s perfect. Buses are a standard fare regardless of the distance you go. In the winter the price is 1.50 per ride, and in the summer it’s 2.00.  ‍
• Hop on Hop off: Another great way to get around Malta is the hop on/off bus services. Running the entire country is a great option. You can book yours online here.
• ‍ Bolt/Cool: Malta has a couple of ride sharing and taxi apps that you can download. They typically have sign up offers to give you some sort of discount. 

Where to stay in Malta

Since we were staying in Malta for a month to live and work, we opted for Airbnb as the monthly discounts offered typically work out as a great deal! We got a 1 bedroom penthouse apartment with a jacuzzi for £600 for the month, and if you decide to use Airbnb you can use our sign up code to get money off! 

But, if you’re just staying for a couple of days, then I suggest you stay in one of the many great hotels on offer in Malta. I’ve done my research and here are my top recommendations for hotels in Malta. 

Budget Choice

‍ $20 (pppn)

Sunny Coast Resort Club

Luxury Pick

Hugo's Boutique Hotel (Adults only)

25 Best Things To Do In Malta

Okay, now we’ve come to the great part, the best things to do in Malta! All these different activities have been undertaken by Brad and I, apart from 1, but we had planned on doing it, so I’ve left it in any way to maybe inspire you….

1. Visit the awesome Popeye Village (original set!)

Well let’s start with one of my favourite things to do in Malta and one of the best Malta attractions. Before we visited Malta, I had heard the set of Popeye was here. I had seen this movie when I was younger and my dad always did a great Popeye impression, but I couldn’t remember it fully. 

So, before we visited, Bradley and I watched the Disney movie and when we visited the set, it was AWESOME. The set is actually set in the beautiful Anchor Bay, so it’s a stunning place to visit regardless of whether you’ve seen the movie or not. But Popeye is iconic and so is this tourist attraction in Malta. 

We had SO much fun, walking around, eating popcorn, taking travel photos , playing mini golf, watching the actors and admiring the views. Since we visited in the winter season, there were actually less activities on, so I think it would be even more fun in the summer, but busier! 

In the winter months (up until March), it’s open until 4.30pm and entrance costs 11 euro up until 3 o'clock. Your entrance includes: 

• Access to the set 
• Games on set including Mini Golf 
• A free postcard
• Free popcorn 
• Free photos 

TIP! : After 3 o'clock they reduce the ticket price to 7.50 euro. We visited at 3 o’Clock and we had loads of time to see everything before it closed at 4.30. So if you’re on a budget, then save a couple of euros by visiting in the late afternoon. Crowds will be lower too. 

AND no, Popeye Village is not just for kids, it’s actually for adults too! 

GET YOUR POPEYE VILLAGE TICKETS HERE!

2. Spend the day by St Paul's Bay

St Paul's Bay is actually the area in which Brad and I lived for 1 month in Malta, so it felt only fair that we should include it on this list of places to visit in Malta. It’s actually very beautiful and a wonderful place to catch a dinner, enjoy sunset and walk along the promenade for miles! There are lots of souvenir shops in this area too, and some great ice cream so a good place to relax and buy some presents.

There is also the Malta National Aquarium here and you can book your tickets to visit right here. 

3. Walk around the silent city of Mdina 

Mdina was a pleasant surprise to us. We knew it would be beautiful, but it’s even more beautiful than I imagined. Countless small streets, cobbled roads, cute coffee shops and a whole lot of history. This was one of my favourite places in Malta, and you could spend a couple of hours walking around this small old capital of Malta, and seeing the museums and other sights on offer. Popular things to do in Mdina include: 

• A visit to the Mdina underground dungeons 
• The National History Museum 
• The Mdina Experience 

You can get to Mdina via bus or one of the taxi apps such as “Cool” or “Bolt”. OR you can take a Mdina 2 hour walking tour here that will cover all the best sights. 

4. Visit the Blue Grotto View Point 

The Blue Grotto is one of the most popular places to visit in Malta, and it’s actually another location that the Popeye Movie was filmed (you’ll totally recognise it if you’ve seen the movie). You can easily access the viewpoint via either local bus or via your own transport. 

It’s a beautiful view point and is best visited before 1pm when the sun will reflect on the blue water perfectly. When in season, you can do boat trips to and through the Blue Grotto too, but we didn’t do this when we visited. 

The viewpoint can be accessed 24/7. 

5. Explore the highest point in Malta: The Dingli cliffs

The Dingli Cliffs are the highest point in Malta, which doesn’t have many high points on the island. But these cliffs offer a fantastic view and look quite dramatic. Just be careful with the wind here as it’s quite strong and you could easily fall over the edge! The cliffs go on for a while, so just pull your car in wherever you like and you’ll have a great viewpoint. 

You can visit via public transport, just get the bus to the closest stop next to the cliffs then walk the rest. 

Visit the Dingli Cliffs via Segway here for a unique experience in Malta. 

6. Check out the fishing village of Marsaxlokk & visit its markets 

This is one of the cutest villages in all of Malta. Marsaxlokk is packed with most of Malta’s fishing boats in lots of different colours, so it’s very picturesque. Not only that, it’s also lined with lots of awesome restaurants offering outdoor seating with nice views. Of course since it’s a fishing village, then you’re going to get some amazing fish here. So if you eat seafood, you’ll love it! 

On Sundays a fish market is held here alongside another big market, and locals and tourists alike flock to get some great bargains! We visited during the week and there were a few local market stalls selling unique handicrafts, foods and souvenirs. 

7. Discover the amazing St Paul's Catacombs

If you don’t know, a catacomb is an underground burial site and the St Paul's Catacombs is the largest collection in Malta. It is truly fascinating and you walk underground around these catacombs, some of which still have bones in them. Some of the spaces are quite small, but there are larger areas and 26 to choose from, so you’ll be able to visit some of them, even if you don’t like small spaces, like me! 

Tickets are 6 Euro which is great value. This is definitely one of the more unique things to do in Malta. There are a variety of other Catacombs in the area, but this one offers the most, so would be the worthwhile choice in my opinion. 

8. Be amazed at the stunning Mosta Dome 

The Mosta Dome was a pleasant surprise for us. I wasn’t expecting too much, but it turned out to be a magnificent church both inside and out. This church is extravagant and very beautiful. You can pay an entrance fee into the dome itself and have a look around for 2 euro, then pay an additional fee to go upstairs to the dome viewpoint which is quite cool.

Inside the church they also have an original bomb that was thrown into the church but miraculously never went off! 

Your best option is to pay 5 euro which gives you entrance to 3 sights. The two mentioned above and the 3rd one which I will mention next. 

9. Check out an original WW2 bunker 

Right outside and underneath (Technically) there is an original WW2 Bunker. Your entrance is included in the 5 euro price, or you can pay 2 euro to see this sight individually. 

You’re going underground, so if you don’t like small spaces, then you might not be a fan of this place. It’s very interesting and there is lots of information about Malta’s time in WW2 and different items depicting the time there. Very interesting! 

One of the unique things to do in Malta, and important! The war is a very important part of Malta's history, especially since it was the most bombed country in Europe.

10. Take a dip in the beautiful St Peter's Pool 

This is a brilliant place to take a dip in the summer months in Malta, but when we visited, it wasn’t quite warm enough. But it was a lovely place to have a picnic lunch! You can park your car up for 3 euro at the closest car park but the road in and out is a little dodgy (most roads in Malta can be), so just drive slowly. 

Entrance into St Peter's Pool is free and I did read online there is a free car park, but I ever found it myself. 

11. Visit the unique and wonderful Tarxien temples 

Before visiting Malta, I didn’t realise it had quite so many temples and World Heritage Sites! But it does, which is pretty cool. One set that we visited was the Tarxien Temples, which were very interesting. These temples were actually uncovered by farmers, and little did they know they had uncovered an amazing complex where the history has been lost.

As you walk around there is information suggesting what the remains are for and what rooms could have been used etc, but there is no solid evidence. It’s a very interesting set of temples that I didn’t expect to find in Malta! 

Entrance is 6 euro. 

There are also other temples in the area which all date to around 3000 BC and 2500 BC, but we didn’t visit them all, but I’ll list a few of the others that you can visit: 

• Ta' Hagrat
• Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum 

This tour actually takes you to quite a few of the best temple locations in Malta and includes pickup and drop off, so a great way to see the temples if you don’t have your own car rental. 

12. Head underground at the Ghar dalam cave 

This was one of the coolest things to do in Malta, and another unique attraction that I wasn’t expecting. I love caves, and Bradley and I have seen some pretty cool caves in our time. Now it’s not as exciting as caves in say, Vietnam, but for its purpose and story it’s cool. There is a large and I mean large collection of bones that are OLD, there are remains of elephants, hippos and other animals that you would never imagine in Malta, it’s crazy and fascinating at the same time. 

Entrance is only 3 euro so it’s definitely worth a visit. 

13. Relax in the sun at Golden Bay

Despite being surrounded by water, Malta actually has very few “sand beaches' '. Well, Golden Bay is one of the most beautiful and most popular sand beaches in Malta! It’s got restaurants, bars, epic sunset views and it’s a great place to swim in the water, or partake in other water related sports and generally have a great time relaxing in the beautiful Malta sunshine. 

14. Visit St Julian's for an awesome night on the town 

St Julian's (otherwise known as Paceville), is the party area of Malta and the place to experience Malta nightlife. It’s the place where you will find lots of bars, restaurants, a Hard Rock Cafe, clubs, strip clubs and more. You can do a pub crawl here if that’s your thing! Either way, there is a range of really cool bars, some slightly more upmarket and some that will give you 30 shots for 19 euro. Brad and I went for a few drinks when we watched the “Six Nations Rugby” and if you’re looking for a somewhat classy place to drink and dine, then I recommend Hugos Bar & Lounge as a hip and happening spot! 

Don't forget to book your pub crawl here.

15. Dine by the sea in modern Sliema 

Sliema is another popular area in Malta and it’s a great place to locate yourself if you want to dine by the water. There is a large strip of different restaurants that offer you epic views of the oceans whilst tasting local delights and sipping delicious wine! A perfect romantic date location in Malta. 

16. Try the local delicacies: Pastizzi 

Malta has a few local delicacies that are produced only on the island. One of those is Pastizzi. These are like little pastry dishes and they’re typically filled with either meat, peas or ricotta. Brad and I had quite a few of the ricotta ones and we loved them. They’re usually around 50 cents so a perfectly cheap snack and suitable for vegetarians. 

Another famous Maltese dish is their Rabbit Stew, which we didn’t try, since we’re vegetarian! The Maltese also produce their own wine, and they make fantastic red wine (I hate red wine, but loved theirs….seriously good!). 

17. Take a day trip to beautiful Gozo 

Gozo is the second largest Island in the Maltese Archipelago, and it’s the most beautiful. Gozo is BURSTING with stunning sights. Beautiful cliffs, wonderful walks, great swimming opportunities, and so much more, Gozo has it all. We’ve done a complete guide on the best things to do in Gozo , so you can get all your inspiration there. But I suggest you spend more than one day on the island if you truly want to see it all and delve into the charm. Gozo may be small, but it’s mighty and jam-packed with awesome attractions. 

18. Visit the Blue Lagoon at Comino (Malta's smallest island) 

Before visiting the Blue Lagoon in Comino, I remember seeing the pictures of just how blue it was online and thinking, well, it’s clearly been enhanced, but I can tell you, it’s BLUE as blue can be. It’s absolutely stunning and if it wasn’t winter the water wasn’t freezing, I would have been in the water all day. 

Brad and I took a Blue Lagoon cruise with Sea Adventure cruises and it was awesome. We sailed to the beautiful lagoon, got amazing water, they even had slides to slide into the water (Brad was brave and did this once!) and the cruise even had a glass bottom so you could see a shipwreck and lots of jellyfish! (The jellyfish prevented us from swimming much! :() 

We even got to check out different caves which was pretty cool. On a typical boat ride you can also walk around Comino and visit the other nearby lagoon including “Crystal Lagoon” which tends to be less crowded than the Blue Lagoon, especially in the summertime. 

But yes, even though this place gets super busy in the summer months, it’s still an amazing place to visit for the sheer beauty of the blue! 

This is the tour we did here and it’s actually cheaper to book online.  

19. Visit a winery 

Malta actually produces some pretty awesome wine, as does Gozo and the main maker of wine in Malta can be visited for tours and tastings! We didn’t do this tour, although I wish we had, but it was a last minute decision and you need to call them in advance. This is the company here, Meridiana Vineyard, so just drop them a message to organise a tastings and tour of a winery on a beautiful summer day.  

20. Visit the beautiful St Paul's Church & Grotto in Rabat 

Rabat is the area located just outside the Mdina, so you can easily combine a day trip of both here. It’s home to some beautiful buildings and one of those is the St Paul's Church! It was closed when we visited, but it still looks pretty epic from the outside. There are also lots of adorable restaurants and cafes surrounding the church, so it’s worth stopping for lunch and a glass of wine in the sunshine. 

Another popular place to visit in Rabat is the last standing Roman Temple known as “Domvs Romana”. You can pay to go in and learn about them in the museum, or you can look at the remains from the outside at the side of the road, like Brad and I did! 

21. Walk along the Xemxija Bay 

Malta is bursting with beautiful “bays” to check out, and another nice walk is along the coast from Bugibba, across to St Paul's Bay, ending at  Xemxija Bay. There is actually the Xemxija Hill Heritage Walk there too which can be as long or short as you want it to be, but you’ll discover temple ruins and other historic sights. It’s a great spot to bring a packed lunch, take a walk and enjoy the views. Another beautiful bay that’s popular to visit is Għadira Bay, it’s got a white sand beach (one of the few of it’s kind in Malta) so it gets super popular in the summer months! 

22.  Explore the capital city of Valletta 

Valletta is one of my favourite capital cities in the entire world! Brad and I aren’t typically a fan of capital cities as they tend to be overcrowded, stuffy and way too busy. Not Valletta, this walled city is bursting with history, culture, beauty and it’s not too busy.

We could spend hours wandering through this beautiful city. It's super picturesque, not overpriced and there is so much to see and do. It’s literally bursting with history! 

We’ve got a whole guide on the most epic things to do in Valletta that you can check out here. 

Check out this original Walking Tour in Valletta.

23. Explore the The Three Cities - Vittoriosa, Senglea & Cospicua 

Across the water from the capital of Malta, Valletta, there are “three cities” which are basically like 3 traditional fort towns. They served a very strategic position in the wars that Malta has faced throughout its history and they’re very unique. You can learn all about them in the Malta Experience, and you can see the viewpoint of them at St Elmo Fort. You can also take boat tours to/around them for a small fee and learn more about the history. 

‍ Check this three cities tour here. 

24. Go snorkelling across the island 

Malta is a divers and snorkel dream! The whole island has great places to discover unique Coral reefs. This is especially the case in the nearby islands of Comino and Gozo. You can take snorkelling trips through an organised tour, or you can head to the coastline with your own snorkel and see what fish you discover. 

The sea water is quite cold in the winter season, but you can still snorkel if you wear a wetsuit. The water in the blue lagoon is warmer, so it’s still possible to snorkel if you can handle some cold! 

25. Get off the beaten track 

Before I went to Malta, I had a few people tell me “there’s not much to do or see there”, and my god they are wrong. Malta is seriously bursting with things to see and discover, you just have to rent a car and find them. Rather than sticking to the typical tourist things like sitting at the beach, or visiting the Blue Lagoon (although still do that ;) ), you should also discover the real Malta.

I suggest you simply rent a car and drive in any given direction. It’s such a small island, that you’ll eventually get back to where you need to be, but on the way you’ll actually discover more random temples and sights that sometimes aren’t even marked on Google! 

When we started driving around Malta we kept seeing signs for more temple ruins, more churches and more historic monuments that we had never heard about from anyone! By creating your own adventure and itinerary, you’ll discover the true beauty of Malta and it’s fascinating history! 

Remember you can check for the best deals on car rental in Malta right here.

Malta Itinerary

I wrote a whole guide on the perfect 5 day Malta Itinerary , which includes beautiful Gozo & Comino as well!

Be warned: It's pretty epic!

Other Malta travel tips

Can i just book a tour in malta.

Absolutely, there are lots of great websites to book tours in Malta. Your best choice for Malta is Viator or GetYourGuide

Here are some of the most popular tours:

• Malta Hop On Hop Off (Great if you’re short on time!)
• Blue Grotto and Sunday Market tour of Marsaxlokk Fishing Village
• Comino Blue Lagoon Tour 

When is the best time to visit Malta?

Because of its location Malta is actually a brilliant country to visit all year around. Bradley and I visited in their winter which saw temperature highs of 22 degrees C. This was perfect for us! We only had around 3 bad days of weather (cloudy) in 4 weeks and it feels like even temperatures of 17/18 feel a lot warmer here, than say if it was the same temperature in England!

Of course if you visit in winter too, everything will generally be cheaper and the crowds will be less. 

But, the most popular time to visit Malta is definitely the summer. It can reach the mid 30s so it gets super warm and it’s no wonder people flock to this beautiful Mediterranean island. 

How long should you spend in Malta?

When most people visit Malta, it tends to be for a beach style holiday and they typically visit for around 1 week. But if you’re visiting Malta and you actually want to SEE Malta and Gozo, then you’ll need a minimum of 5 nights, and 2 of those days will be in Gozo. 

You can check out our Malta itinerary for detailed inspiration, but I suggest a week in Malta to really appreciate the sights and enjoy the sunshine. 

How much should you budget for Malta?

I would describe Malta as a fairly low to mid-range country in Europe. You can get great value hotels (especially in the lower season), tours are very reasonable and food is decent too. Alcohol is also pretty darn cheap in Malta! 

You could survive in Malta on around 40-50 euros a day, quite comfortably, perhaps a little more if you’re dining out a lot and doing a lot of tours!  

Where to after Malta?

If you are visiting the incredible island of Malta, then you’re going to need to take time to see beautiful Gozo too.

It’s bursting with awesome things to see and do, so it’s worth spending a few days on Gozo before you leave Malta. 

For help planning the rest of your trip , here are some other guides that we put together …

• Gozo- 15 Best Things To Do In Gozo 
• Valletta - 15 Best Things To Do In Valletta

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9 Absolute Best Things To Do In St Julians, Malta

Last Updated on 19 March 2024

*This post may contain affiliate links , which means that if you decide to make a purchase through one of these links, I will receive a commission at no extra cost to you! This allows me to continue bringing you valuable content for free and any purchases you make via these links are gratefully appreciated. Please refer to my Disclosures for more information.*

What to do in st julians, malta.

Located on the east coast of Malta, St Julians is one of the buzziest towns on the island. It’s a hotspot for travellers but despite its popularity it still retains its Mediterranean charm. You’ll still see remnants of old Maltese fishing village life around St Julians, charmingly intertwined with a vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere. St Julian’s is the perfect base for any Malta itinerary , given its abundance of bars, restaurants, attractions, and close proximity to the capital of Valletta. To help you get the most out of your trip, here are 9 of the absolute best things to do in St Julians, Malta!

1. See the Luzzu boats at Spinola Bay

Located in the heart of St Julians, Spinola bay is probably one of the most famous places in Malta. With it’s population of colourful Maltese Luzzu fishing boats, Spinola Bay is a picture-perfect area that you’re likely to have seen featured in travel guides and brochures! One of the best things to do in St Julians, Malta, is to enjoy a stroll along the winding promenade that sweeps around the edge of Spinola Bay! Lined with an abundance of restaurants and bars, Spinola Bay has something to suit all budgets and tastes, and it’s social atmosphere makes it a lovely place to dine or enjoy a Cisk (Maltese beer).

Tip: One of the best spots I found to enjoy a cold drink was The Dubliner – an Irish Bar with a small amount of outdoor seating from which you can enjoy the views over Spinola Bay.

2. Party it up in Paceville

If you’re looking for nightlife in St Julians, then you won’t have to look very far as it is home to the epicentre of all Maltese nightlife – Paceville. Bursting at the seams with bars, restaurants and nightclubs, Paceville is an electric district of St Julians where the good times flow. If you fancy a tamer evening out away from the hustle and bustle, you’re probably going to prefer a quiet drink in Spinola Bay over rowdy Paceville. But if you want to dance the night away on your trip to Malta, an evening spent in Paceville might be for you!

Tip: One of the top tips on how to travel cheap in Europe is to travel off peak! I travelled to St Julians, Malta, in November which allowed me to find cheaper accommodation and flights!

3. Get the ferry to Valletta

Deviating a little further afield but still one of the top things to do whilst staying in St Julians is a day trip to the capital of Malta – the charming city of Valletta. Valletta is a fortified city full of Baroque architecture, fountains, sculptures, gardens, bistros and bars, and boulevard streets lined with a mixture of high-end and independent shops. And it’s close proximity to St Julians makes it an essential trip during any stay in the town. It’s located just a ~20 minute drive or a ~30 minute walk to Sliema ferry terminal (then 10 minute ferry ride from there) from St Julian’s, so there’s no excuse not to visit! Check out this detailed how to get from St Julians to Valletta guide for all the information you need!

Tip : One of the best ways to get around Malta is to use eCabs – the Uber of the island. So if you don’t fancy the ~30 minute walk from St Julian’s to Sliema ferry terminal, grab a taxi!

4. See Balluta Bay and the Carmelite Church

Not far from Spinola Bay you’ll find the quieter inlet of Balluta Bay. Balluta Bay is one of the top places for swimming in St Julians, when on low tide a small section of sandy beach is exposed, and it’s also popular with snorkelers, sunbathers and divers too. There are various cafes where you can stop to enjoy a frothy coffee and you’ll also find an outdoor swimming pool here which is home to a Water Polo team. Clung to the edge of Balluta Bay and overlooking its blue waters, you’ll find the Carmelite Church (also known as Balluta Parish Church). The Carmelite Church is a neo-gothic style Roman Catholic church which was built in 1859, and looks particularly spectacular when lit up of an evening.

5. Eat pancakes at Shoreditch Bar and Kitchen

One of the best places to eat in St Julians has to be Shoreditch Bar and Kitchen . You won’t find local dishes here, as it’s more of a diner where you can find dirty burgers, fries and good beer. But the real star of the show and the reason Shoreditch Bar and Kitchen is one of the best things to do in St Julians, Malta, is because of it’s pancakes! Here you can indulge in the sweetest and naughtiest American-style pancake stacks, smothered in all types of guilty pleasures like chocolate sauces, ice cream and syrup!

Tip : If you can’t finish all of your pancakes because they are big portions, ask to take the remainder away!

6. Have a beach day at St George’s Bay

Located a stones throw from the nightlife mecca of Paceville is St George’s Bay. A visit to St George’s bay is one of the best things to do in St Julians, Malta, if you fancy a beach day full of swimming and sunbathing. St George’s Bay is home to a sandy Blue Flag beach. And you’ll also find a large cluster of hotels, restaurants and shops around this area too, along with facilities like toilets! You can rent umbrellas nearby, and the Blue Flag season for St George’s Beach runs every year from 15th June-15th September.

7. Do a day trip to Comino and Gozo

Not located in St Julians, but nevertheless one of the things you must do during any stay in the town is a day trip to Comino and Gozo with Sea Adventure Excursions . Located in amongst Malta and Gozo is the (mostly) uninhabited island of Comino which is one of the most unique places to visit in Europe ! Here you will find the famous Blue Lagoon which boasts crystal clear waters for swimming and snorkelling and is one of Europe’s natural wonders !

After a stop at Comino you’ll sail across to the island of Gozo – the second largest island in the Maltese Archipelago. Here you’ll have the opportunity to do some sightseeing in the capital of Victoria (known locally as Ir-Rabat). Victoria is home to the Citadel – an ancient fortification which historically guarded against attacks. And in the streets beneath the Citadel you’ll find picturesque lanes and sociable squares making Victoria one of the best summertime city break destinations in Europe !

8. Walk the promenade – One of the best things to do in St Julians, Malta

Beginning in St George’s Bay and ending in Sliema, walking the promenade is one of the best ways to explore St Julians. Stretching for kilometers and going via some of the main St Julians attractions such as Spinola Bay and Balluta Bay, the promenade is a magnet for joggers and wanderers alike. Offering stunning coastal views, it is one of the top things to do in St Julians, Malta, and is best completed by taking a slow stroll stopping at various cafes and restaurants along the way to refuel! Upon finishing in Sliema, why not head to Tony’s Bar for a well-earned drink?

9. Shop at Bay Street Shopping Centre

If you fancy some retail therapy on your Malta vacation, then one of the best things to do in St Julians is to spend an afternoon at Bay Street Shopping Centre. Nestled in amongst St George’s Bay and Paceville, Bay Street Shopping Centre is a complex full of shops and eateries which offers both indoor and outdoor shopping. You’ll find a range of brands here, so if you’re a shop ’til you drop type of person, it is probably somewhere you’ll want to visit during your stay in St Julians!

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Malta: A Beautiful, Crazy, Formidable, Vibrant Island

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

I was so nervous about visiting Malta.

While some of my friends had been to Malta and loved it, others had been and told me privately that they found it, well…a bit dull.

What if I felt that way, too?! 

As usual, I was worrying far too much about nothing. Malta is the least dull place on the planet.

Malta sneaked into my heart, and I fell quickly, deeply, insanely in love with it.

Yet most North Americans have no idea what Malta even is.

Whenever I mention Malta to a North American who isn’t involved in the travel industry, nine times out of ten, I get the response, “Where is that?”

So, before we begin, here’s a primer for those less familiar with Malta:

Where is Malta? Just south of Sicily in the Mediterranean. Are they their own country? Yes. They used to be under British rule, but they have been independent since 1964. They also drive on the left. What language do they speak? Everyone speaks English; locals also speak Maltese, which sounds like a cross between Arabic and Italian. What is the currency? The euro. Malta is the smallest country in the European Union. How do you get there? You can take the 90-minute ferry from Catania, Sicily, but it’s faster and cheaper to fly. Air Malta and several budget airlines fly to Malta from all over Europe. You’ll find the most flights from the UK and Italy.

The highlights?

Architecture

Oh my God. If you love architecture, Malta will make you lose your mind. Parts of Malta look like they could be in the Middle East or North Africa. Parts look like Europe or even South America. Parts of Malta are crumbling; parts are beautifully restored.

The architecture here is an absolute feast for the eyes. And just LOOK at those BALCONIES! I haven’t seen balconies like those anywhere else in the world.

Incredible Natural Beauty

Malta is one of the most beautiful places on the planet. The Azure Window in Gozo, pictured above, is probably the most famous spot — but the Maltese Archipelago is filled with everything from rolling fields to white cliffs to desert landscapes and endless vineyards. There’s beauty in every direction.

Retro Charm

Parts of Valletta, and other cities on the island, looked like they haven’t changed since the 1950s. One of those places is Strait Street in Valletta, which used to be the hottest destination in town for drinking, carousing, and picking up Maltese women.

Ting Tong Bar is a great place to experience the Malta of yesteryear — sip a retro cocktail and laugh at the pictures on the walls of drunken soldiers from World War II.

Ancient Cities

When driving across the island, Mdina appears — a gleaming city perched on a hill. An ancient fortified white city, a silent city, a settlement even older than Valletta.

Malta is a photography gold mine — but Mdina especially is. This city is incredibly beautiful and it’s the most pristine place on the island.

I didn’t think there would be a lot of adventure activities here — but there are plenty! Hiking, ATV riding, snorkeling.

Most famous, however, is diving. Malta, and Gozo in particular, is home to some of the very best diving in Europe. A friend of a friend is an accomplished diver and he has found some crazy artifacts in shipwrecks from World War II.

Insane Churches

Maltese churches, known for their incredibly ornate decor, make St. Peter’s Basilica look a bit drab and bare. Malta is home to 365 churches — each of them so decorated that there isn’t a inch of bare space to spare! Even tiny villages are dwarfed by giant, sprawling churches covered in gold.

Most famous is St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta. This is where the Pope serves Mass when he comes to Malta. Gold on top of gold, endless sculptures, Caravaggio’s most famous painting, and everything is on top of ornately carved marble headstones for the knights.

Malta is such a small island that you can even see water from the center of the island! I saw so many incredible views, but my favorite was the view from the Upper Barakka Gardens in Valletta, overlooking the Grand Harbor and the Three Cities.

Maltese history is INSANE. Really. From the grotesque psychological warfare of Jean de Valette to the exile of Caravaggio to the fact that there are temples in Malta older than the Pyramids, Maltese history is incredible, tantalizing, and will never leave you bored.

Parts of Malta look straight out of ancient times — which is why  Game of Thrones , Gladiator , and Troy were all filmed here.

Delicious Food

Malta is very Mediterranean — so expect lots of fish, olives, garlic, capers and tomatoes. Some of the dishes are Italian-influenced; others are uniquely their own. Thankfully, the English influence on the cuisine is scant at best.

Pictured above is hobz biz-zeijt — the Maltese variation of bruschetta, topped with tomatoes, capers, olives, onions, and tuna.

A lot of people come to Malta and complain that there aren’t any real beaches. While the popular Sliema waterfront is rocky, there are actually sandy beaches on the north of the island, and they are wonderful places to spend a day.

READ MORE: How to Protect Your Belongings on the Beach

Mellieha is a nice, albeit crowded, beach spot on Malta — but the best beaches of all are in Gozo, the little island to the north. You’ll find pretty coves like the one above in the area around Marsalforn.

Malta is the most Catholic country I’ve ever visited. And when it’s time to celebrate their saints, do they EVER pull out all the stops!

The Maltese dress in their finest outfits and head into the town square as men haul a giant wooden saint through the streets and kids squeal through flying confetti. Fireworks boom until midnight and then pick up again at 8:00 AM.

It was an unbelievable, quintessentially Maltese experience and I can’t wait to share more of my festa experience in Qormi with you.

Traditional Life

Malta is a place where you can still catch glimpses of life as it was lived decades ago, if not centuries. One nice place to do that is Marsaxlokk, a fishing village in the south. Fishermen still take out their brightly colored boats each day.

As far as your money goes, Malta is one of the best buys in Western Europe. I’d put prices on par with Portugal: meals for under €10 ($13), guesthouses for €60 ($79) per night. Plus cheap local wine and lots of pastizzi (ricotta-filled pastries) and pizza (pit-sa, not peet-za, square pieces of pizza) for less than a euro each!

While you won’t find Thailand prices here — or even Eastern Europe prices — it’s hard to think of a destination as beautiful, interesting, and culture-filled as Malta with a similar price point.

Not quite perfect. But almost.

Well, nowhere is perfect. I should point out that the driving here is HORRENDOUS. Do not consider driving here unless you are an expert at driving stick on the left. Riding a bike or even a motorbike is a suicidal idea. This is one of the many reasons I always recommend having travel insurance . I used World Nomads on this trip.

Finding a good hotel can be a challenge, too. There aren’t many quality hotels, and a friend is convinced that some of them make up their own star ratings. Read a lot of reviews before you book, and consider renting an apartment instead. If you do decide to stay in a hotel, you can compare them here .

That said, those are small caveats, because Malta has a way of casting a spell on you. I know I felt it. Every time I passed a town home for sale, I dreamed of buying one and fixing it up and painting the balcony a cool color and turning it into a guesthouse…

Malta is a special place, and one that deserves more attention from North Americans. Come here and feel the magic for yourself.

Visit Malta: Top 27 things to do and best places to visit

The 27 best things to do in malta (+ activities).

You want to visit Malta for your next trip?

Great choice!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have create this guide of the best things to do in Malta , but also in Gozo and Comino , the 2 smaller islands of the country.

In this guide, you will discover all the activities, must see attractions and points of interest of this beautiful small Mediterranean country.

To make everything even easier for you, you can book all the best activities to do in Malta, Gozo and Comino directly in this guide. It’s very easy, you just have to click on the green buttons and orange links you will find throughout the article.

So, what are the best places to visit in Malta? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. Valletta

3. blue lagoon and comino island, 4. enjoy a quad bike ride in malta, 5. scuba diving in malta, 6. the three cities, 9. sliema and st julian’s, 10. marsaxlokk, 11. st peter’s pool, 13. blue grotto, 14. dingli cliffs, 15. the red tower, 16. the megalithic temples of malta, 17. doing sports and fun activities in malta, 18. malta, gozo and comino best beaches, 19. water sports and activities in malta, 20. renting a boat in malta, 21. hiking in malta, 22. do a game of thrones tour, best bars in malta:, best nightclubs in malta, 24. go to a “boat party”, 25. popeye village, 26. visit malta national aquarium, 27. playmobil fun park, gozo island, sliema and saint julian’s, the 4 best activities to do in malta, 1) the best activities in malta (and from malta), 2) the best activities in gozo, malta tourist map, book your trip to malta in 1 click, you’re traveling in malta these articles will help you, visit malta: the 27 best places to visit and must-see attractions.

In order to help you plan your stay in Malta, I have prepared detailed itineraries depending on your trip duration . You should read them after reading this article.

You can find them here, simply click on the orange links to read the articles:

• Itinerary: 2-3 Days in Malta – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions!
• Itinerary: 4-5 Days in Malta – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions!
• Itinerary: 1 Week in Malta – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions!
• Itinerary: 10 Days in Malta – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions!

They will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

And if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section, at the end of the article. I would be glad to help you plan your stay.

Let’s start this list of the best things to do in Malta with Valletta , the capital. Walk around this lovely city and look at the beautiful architecture, historical museums and amazing views over the sea and neighbor cities .

Here are the best places to visit in Valletta:

The Saint John’s Co-Cathedral might not look very interesting from the outside, but wait until you see what’s inside ! It’s full of gold and magnificent paintings from Caravaggio .

Below the marbled floor lay the tombs of the Grand Masters of the Order of Malta and other nobles. Close to 400 of them are buried there, it’s a must see for history lovers in Malta!

Grandmaster’s Palace was once their home. While the Supreme Council Hall and the Ambassador’s Room are worth the visit, the most impressive room is for sure the armory.

It houses a collection of more than 5,000 armors and weapons , once belonging to the knights and grand masters.

Republic Street and Merchant Stree t are the main commercial streets in Valletta, with numerous stores and restaurants.

The Manoel Theatre , one of the oldest in Europe.

The Fort Saint Elmo , also housing the National War Museum.

At the National Museum of Fine Arts, you will find a collection of objects, sculptures and paintings which belonged to the Order of Malta .

The Barraka Gardens , also called Upper Barraka Garden and Lower Barraka Garden. The lower garden is quite small but has a very photogenic temple .

The upper one is bigger, with nice colonnades and a wonderful view over the 3 cities . Below you can see the Saluting Battery: an artillery battery used in the past to salute foreign vessels. It’s still functioning nowadays and fires everyday at noon.

Voyage Tips Advice If you’re going to Valletta, park your car in the MCP parking lot, right next to the old town entrance. It’s affordable (we have paid 6€ for 7 hours) and very well located (only 5min walking distance from the city center).

If you want to learn everything about Valletta, you should really opt for a guided visit on foot. The guides are really amazing, you will have a great time!

This guided visit needs to be booked here:

This guided visit also exists in “private” version (only for your group – book it here ) and as an historical version “Valletta during World War 2”, which needs to be booked there (also a private tour) .

And if you want to discover Valletta from the sea, there is another great activity: The “2 harbours tour” on board a “Luzzu”, a traditional Maltese boat.

Simply click the button below to book it:

Looking for more information about what to do in Valletta? Check out our article and suggested itineraries to visit the city in 1, 2 or 3 days: The 10 best places to visit in Valletta.

Gozo is the second largest island in Malta. It’s more rural and quiet with wonderful landscapes and nice beaches and coves. There are really many things to do in Gozo.

To get there, take the Gozo Channel Line ferry, from Cirkewwa on Malta island . The trip lasts about 20min and you can board with a vehicle. Boarding is fast and well organized .

In the ferry, you can find a cafetaria and a convenience store selling food, magazines and souvenirs.

• Ticket Fare: we paid 25€ for 3 people and one vehicle.
• Useful tip: you only have to pay on your way back.

From June 1, 2021, you can also take the fast ferry from Valletta to Gozo.

The ferry departs from Valletta Grand Harbor and will take you to Gozo in 45 minutes.

This boat only takes passengers and no cars. You will disembark at the same place as the other ferry, at Gozo Mgarr harbor.

For prices and schedules, you can find all the information on the official website.

Once you arrive in Gozo, these are the best places to visit:

• Victoria, also called Rabat by the locals, is the main city in Gozo . It’s a great place for shopping and food, but the main attraction is for sure the Cittadella , the fortified part of the city. Located on a hill, it’s home to the Cathedral, the old prison, archaeological sites and of course, amazing views over Gozo from the ramparts.
• Djewra region in the North-West, famous for the Azur Window (unfortunately it collapsed in 2017), Fungus Rock, the Inland Sea and the Deep Blue Hole
• Marsalforn is a popular beach town during summertime, the main attraction being the 3km long salt pans on the edge of the city.
• Ta’Pinu shrine is a dazzling church. Built on a small hill, you can see it from far away.
• Ta’Cenc cliffs, 130m high, offer a lovely scenic view. If you have a drone, this is the place to use it!
• Ggantija temples , among the most impressive and best preserved temples on the island
• Ramla Bay beach , the biggest sand beach in Gozo. A perfect beach for families with plenty of space for kids to play.

If you want to visit Gozo as a day trip or with a guided visit , you will have the choice between the following tours: (you can click on the links for more info and to book the one that suits you the best!)

The best guided visits of Gozo from Malta

My favourite: guided quad bike tours of Gozo!

These guided quad tours are so good, I’ve contacted the provider to offer you a promo 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 promo 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.

You can find more details about all the best places to visit in Gozo in my article: The 10 best things to do in Gozo.

Comino is a tiny island located between Malta and Gozo island. Tiny in terms of size, but not in terms of reputation! That’s where the Blue Lagoon is, a stunning lagoon with turquoise water.

Every day, shuttle boats come and go from Malta/Gozo to Comino to bring tourists to swim in the lagoon.

Fore sure, unless you go off season, don’t go there if you’re looking for a peaceful and quiet beach!

As a lot of tourists are visiting Comino each day, I strongly recommend you to buy your boat tickets in advance.

There are several ways to go to Comino, simply click on the orange links to book the one that suits you the best.

1) Boat trip to the Blue Lagoon: the classic day trip to the Blue Lagoon, they can organize the transportation from most cities of Malta of you after booking for an extra fee.

2) Catamaran boat trip to the Blue Lagoon: same as above, but on a huge Catamaran! A great choice for a nice day at sea. Same as above, transport can be organized after booking.

3) Sailboat trip to the Blue Lagoon and other bays: want to discover more than just the Blue Lagoon? Choose this one! Snacks, wine and lunch + Free transportation from Malta included.

4) Private VIP boat trip to Comino and Gozo (3h30): Simply the best private boat tour to Comino and the Blue Lagoon. Josef, your skipper, will make sure you will have an amazing moment at sea.

During your boat trip, you will stop at the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon for a swim (snorkeling equipment included!) and visit Comino sea caves .

In addition to the half day boat trip, Josef also offers a full day boat tour (7h).

And you know the best?

It’s actually not much more expensive than the 3h30 boat trip , so if you have time to spend a full day at sea, you should opt for this one!

As Josef is doing only 1 boat trip per day, you should really book your full day private boat trip to Comino in advance by clicking on the button below:

5) Private boat trip to the Blue Lagoon from Valletta: You can also do a private boat trip to Comino Blue Lagoon from Valletta! It’s a great was to discover the capital and Malta’s coast line from the sea.

6) Private sailboat trip to Comino Blue Lagoon: Same as above, but on a sailboat with skipper! As it’s also a privat tour, you will decide of the day’s program. Enjoy!😎

And if you don’t want to do a boat trip, you can also take the boat shuttle from Marfa or Cirkewwa (in the North of Malta) to Comino.

7) Josef’s private boat trip to the Blue Lagoon can also start from Gozo.

You will have the choice between 2 boat trips (simply click on the links to book them)

• A 3h30 private boat trip to Comino Blue Lagoon and Gozo
• A full day pivate boat trip to Comino Blue Lagoon and Gozo (my reccomandation!)

8) Take the boat from Mgarr harbour.

9) Take the speed boat from Hondoq Ir Rummien (high season only). You will discover the magnificent Hondoq bay and its small beach. From there you can also enjoy amazing nautical activities! Book your ticket now here .

From Hondoq, in addition to the direct Comino transfer, you can also opt for a “Comino shuttle + Santa Maria caves” visit. It’s the perfect way to discover these beautiful sea caves and the coast of Comino!  

Besides the lagoon, you should also walk around the island, enjoy the beautiful landscape and the quieter areas of Comino. A nice thing to do is to go on top of Saint Mary’s Tower for a unique scenic view.

A quick tip: you can only go up the tower if the flag is raised. Entrance fee is donation based.

There is another beach on Comino island: Santa Maria Bay, with a hotel, restaurants and public bathroom. It’s a lot less crowded than the Blue Lagoon .

All the ways to go Comino I have just mentioned are detailed in my other article: How to visit Comino and the Blue Lagoon?

Comino island got its name from a plant found everywhere there during spring: cumin. Now you can amaze your guests at the next dinner party with this fact 😋

Quad bike is for sure a must-do activity during your trip to Malta !

You may not know it, but quad bike tours in fact take place on Gozo island .

I’ve already mentioned quad bikes above , but it really deserves its own section, so I can tell you all about it!

There is no previous quad biking experience needed, your instructor/guide will teach you the basics and will adapt to your driving pace.

• Quad bike rental in Gozo

The best way to enjoy a great day out on a quad bike during your stay in Malta is simply to rent one!

To do this, you’ll have to go to Gozo island on your own . It’s very simple – I’ve already explained how to do it above, and you’ll receive similar instructions once you’ve booked your quad.

You really need to book your quad as soon as possible , as there’s not much availability on the island, and the rental company gets fully booked very quickly!

To rent your quad bike in Gozo, simply click on the green button below:

• Quad bike tour from Malta

This day trip includes the transport from Malta as well as the lunch.

During your quad bike guided visit of Gozo, you will discover some of the best places to visit of the island such as Ramla bay , Dwejra (where the famous Azure Window used to stand), the Inland Sea , the Blue Hole or Marsalforn Salt Pans.

And you know the best? This day trip also includes the return from Gozo with a private boat! You will pass by the Blue Lagoon and Comino caves.

As I told you a bit before, you can use my discount code “tips5” to save 5% (50 uses maximum, so hurry up, there won’t be enough for everyone! 😅)

Your 1 day quad bike guided visit of Gozo from Malta needs to be booked here:

And if you prefer to enjoy the sunset in Gozo , you should rather book this version of the tour (click here to book) .

Available from May 15 to October 15 , it’s exactly the same as the tour mentioned above, just you start in the early afternoon and dinner is included!

You will find more info about the quad bike tours in Malta in my detailed article: Quad bikes in Malta/Gozo: the definitive guide.

Scuba divers will love Malta as it’s one of the best diving spot in the Mediterranean region.

Scuba diving in Malta is a unique experience, you will go on an underwater adventure and discover marine wildlife, wrecks and caves! On the plus side: water is warm and it’s always sunny (Malta has the most days of sunshine in Europe).

Prices are pretty affordable, the sites are beautiful and there are options for both beginners and experienced divers.

The best dive sites Malta:

• Blue Grotto and its diverse wildlife
• In Valletta , under Fort Saint Elmo, to see the wreck of the HMS Maori, a destroyer which sank in 1942
• The wreck of the Um El Faroud oil tanker
• The wreck of MV Rozi in Cirkewwa
• The blue hole in Gozo
• Santa Maria Caves in Comino

To try this amazing activity and do your try dive (first dive) in Malta , I have selected for you the best diving center of the island:

• All the diving instructors are very experienced (they have dived all around the world!)
• The diving equipment is new
• It’s a small diving center , not a “tourist factory”, and honestly, it changes everything! They only offer small groups diving, so you will be a maximum of 4 divers per instructor.

And you know the best? The price is very good! You can do your try dive in Malta for 69 euros per person only.

And at this price, you will have a real first dive (unlike with some other diving centers): you will spend 1 hour underwater and will be able to dive to a maximum depth of 12 meters (if you feel like it of course!)

Of course, as it’s a small diving center (friendly atmosphere guaranteed!), you will need to book your first dive as soon as possible: the places are very limited!

In order to book your dive in Malta at the best diving center and at the best price, you just need to call me at +356 7920 1451 (phone or WhatsApp).

The other best diving center in Malta is located on Gozo island. You can do your first dive there too, they are very friendly!

To book it, you just have to click the button below:

And if you’re motivated to learn diving, you can opt for a 4 days PADI Open Water course. You can book it by clicking here .

If you already have some diving experience and want to discover Gozo’s best diving sites, the 2 following options are the perfect choices you: “day – 2 dives” (click here) and “2 days – 4 dives” (click there) .

During your dives, you will discover amazing sites such as the famous “Blue Hole” or Mv Karwela ferry shipwreck with a professional instructor.

And if you want more info about diving in Malta, you can read my detailed article: Diving in Malta – The Definitive Guide .

If you’re looking for a VIP experience , you should opt for the VIP try dive, with a private instructor!

It’s similar to the adventure try dive (1 hour of diving / max depth of 12 meters – same diving center), but the instructor will only take care of you and your group (up to 4 people).

The VIP try dive is definitely a great choice if you want to be only with your family and friends , or want to offer a dive in Malta to your partner!

You should book your VIP diving experience in Malta now by calling me at +356 7920 1451 (Tel or WhatsApp).

From Valletta , you can easily reach the Three Cities . Go to Upper Barrakka Garden and take the panoramic elevator (Barrakka Lift) to go downstairs. Then, cross the street and continue to the left to reach the boat departure point.

Tickets are sold inside the boat. Round trip tickets are 2.80€ per person and it’s a 10min trip.

It will drop you off in the city of Birgu , the biggest of the 3 cities (the 2 others are Senglea and Cospicua ). They all have their unique features but they do have one thing in common; the views over Valletta . The best way to explore the 3 cities is just to wander around on foot!

• Birgu points of interest include Fort St. Angelo , the Inquisitor’s Palace and the Malta Maritime Museum
• In Senglea , go to the Safe Haven Gardens at the edge of the city; it has one of the best view over Valletta.

To visit the 3 Cities, you can also opt for a guided visit. The best one also includes a part about Maltese wine history and free wine tasting!

Keep your 3 Cities boat ticket!

The Barrakka Lift is always free when going down. However, you usually have to pay a small fee when going up, except in one case: when you come from the 3 Cities. So just show your boat ticket at the ticket office to get a free ride.

Mdina is the former capital of Malta . During the Middle-Ages (before the Order of Malta), the government and other administrations were located there.

It was called “Citta Notabile”, the noble city . When the Order arrived, knights decided that they needed to be close to their ships and Valletta became the new capital .

Also called “the Silent City”, Mdina is a fortified city loved by tourists for its charm and quiet streets. The city is home to many historical monuments:

• St. Paul’s Cathedral (the oldest cathedral in Malta) and its museum
• the 18th century Vilhena Palace
• other palaces on Villegaignon Street, such as the Palazzo Falson .

After exploring the city, you can go down to see the old moat which have been turned into a garden. From there you’ll be able to see the impressive ramparts from the bottom.

Voyage Tips Advice We went to Mdina early in the morning and it was a good idea! Starting from 10am, buses loaded with tourist started to flow in the city. Try to come before 9:30am if you want to avoid all the tourists.

To learn everything about Mdina history, a guided visit is your best option!

• Guided visit: Mdina on foot: Meeting point is at Mdina main gate
• Private guided visit: Mdina on foot: Same as above, but just for your group! The date and time of this private tour are flexible according to your preferences.
• Guided visit by night, “all included”: in addition to the visit to Mdina, this guided visit by night also includes “The Malta Experience”, a 5D show retracing the history of Malta in Valletta and a visit to the city of Mosta. Transportation from your hotel is also incluided.

Rabat is another place to visit during your holidays in Malta. It’s located right next to Mdina: once you exit the fortified city you are already in Rabat!

The best things to see in Rabat:

• St. Paul’s Church and Grotto, where Paul the Apostle sought refuge after their boat sank on the island
• St. Paul’s Catacombs, the city’s necropolis for 500 years
• Sy. Agatha’s Catacombs, where Saint Agatha hid during her exile from Sicily
• Domvs Romana , a Roman-era house turned into a museum.

Sliema and St Julian’s are the main touristic cities in Malta.

You’ll find there plenty of hotels, restaurants, clubs, casinos and shopping malls . They are perfect destinations if you like busy cities and to party. If you enjoy quiet places however, that might not be the best places for you to go.

In Sliema, you can enjoy a good meal in the numerous seafront restaurants offering unique views over Valletta .

There is also a nice promenade going from St Julian’s to Sliema and even Valletta along the sea . It’s probably the most crowded area of the island, especially during summer nights.

The best thing to do in Malta on a Sunday is, without a doubt, going to the fish market in Marsaxlokk .

Marsaxlokk is an authentic fishing port , with colored fishing boats called luzzu. Every Sunday takes place a traditional fish market. Don’t be fooled by the name though, you will find more things than just fish at that market, like souvenirs for example.

This market is huge and usually crowded , probably because souvenirs are cheaper there than in Valletta.

You’ll find many bars and restaurants along the port, perfect for lunch break. Most of them serve fish but you can also find pizzas and sandwiches. As always in Malta, the price is very decent.

Voyage Tips Advice If you’re coming to Marsaxlokk on market day by car , don’t get too close to the port: streets are very narrow and it’s virtually impossible to find parking. It’s better to park further away and walk a bit.

If you don’t have a car, y ou can also go on an organized day trip to Marsaxlokk . It includes transportation from your hotel, a guide and a visit to the Blue Grotto (If you want to go inside, you will need to purchase an additionnal boat trip to enter the cave)

You need to book this tour here:

Close to Marsaxlokk , St Peter’s Pool is another must-see attraction in Malta.

Dug by erosion, this natural pool is a great swimming spot.

Kids in particular love this beach, they challenge themselves to jump from the small cliff rather than actually swim. In fact, the only ways to get in the water is by jumping or using ladders.

Please also note that there is very limited shaded areas , so it might not be a good place to go with young children.

If you keep walking past St Peter’s Pool to the right , you’ll get to a flatter area with more natural pools carved into the rocks. Another great spot to take a dip.

St Peter’s Pool is 10min driving away from Marsaxlokk . It’s easy to find and there are 2 free parking lots .

• 7 days / 6 nights
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• Created by Voyage Tips

• 8 days / 7 nights

• 10 days / 9 nights

Mosta is famous for its monumental church , whose design was inspired by the Pantheon of Rome .

It was built in 1833 thanks to funds raised by the residents, and is one of the most beautiful church in Malta.

It’s said that the dome is one of the biggest in Europe, whether it’s the 3rd or the 4th biggest dome is still a matter of debate. It’s so big that you can see it from many places on the island.

The church is also famous for what happened there in 1942: a German bomb was dropped over it, pierced the dome and fell in the church during the mass, without detonating. Some even says it was a miracle!

As i told you in the paragraph about Mdina, the visit to the monumental church of Mosta is included in this night tour of Malta.

Blue Grotto is located 2km away from Zurrieq town.

It got its name and reputation from the intense blue color of the water in the cave.

You can see it from above at a sightseeing location just outside the city. You can also go to the small Wied Iz Zurrieq port, 2min further away by car, and take a 30 min boat tour .

Remember to check the weather conditions beforehand , there won’t be any tour if the sea is too stormy.

Wied Iz Zurrieq also has bars and restaurants, as well as a spot to go swimming.

Voyage Tips Advice To get the best light, you should go to Blue Grotto in the morning: that’s when the sun shines into it.

North off Blue Grotto , the Dingli cliffs are worth stopping by.

Located 250m above sea level , Dingli is the highest point in Malta. It’s a nice place to walk around (be careful not to get to close to the cliff) and enjoy the views. Sunsets there are a photographer’s dream !

Voyage Tips - Advice If you don’t have a lot of time and want to discover the best of Malta in a day , you should opt for a private tour around the island!

There are 2 kinds of tours , and you can personnalize them in order to organize the excursion that suits you!

First, there is the Malta private guided tour. You can book it here:

The 2nd possibility is to do a private day trip around Malta with a driver , but without a guide (thus more affordable):

In both cases, the team in charge of the organization will help you to organize an unforgettable day!

The Red Tower , or Saint Agatha’s Tower is located in Marfa , 5min driving from Mellieha .

Built in 1649 among other towers between Valletta and Gozo , it was used to watch the coasts and protect merchants from pirates’ attacks. It could host up to fifty soldiers and had 5 cannons. It’s named after the color of its walls.

You can visit the Red Tower for 2€. It’s small, but the tour is worth it thanks to the amazing view from the top of the tower . From there, you can see the White Tower , Saint Mary’s Tower (on Comino island) and Lippija Tower.

Several megalithic temples can be found in Malta and Gozo, some of them even being UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They were all built between the 4th and 3th century BCE.

Here is a list of temples to visit:

• Tarxien temples located in the city of Tarxien
• Hagar Qim temples , next to the city of Qrendi, in South Malta
• Mnajdra temples, only 500m away from Hagar Qim
• Ggantija temples on Gozo island

If you plan to visit Malta’s Megalithic Temples and want to learn more about their history, you can opt for the guided visit!

It includes transportation from your hotel as well as the visit of 3 sites: Ghar Dalam Cave and its museum, Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples.

Here are the best activities to do in Malta

• Quad bike: you can find all the details just below, #14 of this guide
• Cross country Segway: the best Segway tours are on Gozo island
• Horse riding
• Hiking: I tell you more about it at the #21 of this guide
• Climbing: There are 300+ spots spread over 12 breathtaking sites on Gozo island

No Malta holidays can be complete without a good beach day ! Malta, Gozo or Comino islands all features some nice beaches and coves:

• Mellieha Bay: shallow water and wide stretch of sand, great for families
• Pretty Bay: a real kids’ paradise with its shallow water and playgrounds
• Paradise Bay: close to the Gozo ferry, it’s a nice beach but quite touristy
• Golden Bay: a vast beach, very touristy, lots of water sports options there
• Ghajn Tuffieha Bay: Go down the stairs to reach this very beautiful spot. Don’t miss the surprising rock formations on the left side of the beach
• Gejna Bay: a decent size sand beach, it’s especially nice to walk along the sea there
• Ramla Bay in Gozo, a vast beach with ocher sand, the ultimate family beach
• San Blas Bay in Gozo, a lovely sandy cove, though only reachable on foot. Going back will be your little workout of the day!
• Blue Lagoon and Santa Maria Bay in Comino, more details about it below.

If you enjoy swimming, you can go on a snorkeling session in Gozo with Sam during your stay.

He will show you one of the best spots of the island , hidden from the usual tourist spots!

He offers 2 snorkeling tours. You will need to book it by clicking here.

If it’s not available, you can opt for one of these 2 snorkelling tours that are also great:

• Snorkelling trip around Gozo of 2h30
• Snorkelling trip to the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon in Comino – Departure from North Malta

Malta is the perfect place to enjoy water sports and activities at reasonable prices.

To book, click on the orange links:

• Water Skiing
• Wakeboarding
• Parasailing
• Windsurfing course

Voyage Tips - Advice In my opinion, the best is to enjoy all these activities in Gozo. It’s where the scenery is the most beautiful!

A boat rental in Malta is a great way to discover the Maltese coast from another point of view!

The best is to rent it in Gozo (where the coast is the most beautifl!). You can then easily go explore around Gozo and Comino islands.

In Malta, the great thing is that you can rent a boat up to 90HP without boat license.

For those who have a boat licence, there are also boats with over 90HP.

To hire a boat in Gozo, you just need to call me at +356 7920 1451 (phone or WhatsApp).

To discover best secret spots of Malta , you should go hiking!

In the North of Malta , I recommend you the walk that starts from Selmun Palace (towards Mellieha) and goes down to several coves before going along the seafront to Mistra Bay.

In the south of Malta , you can also start from Delimara / St Peter’s Pool and walk along the coast to St Thomas Bay. The views of the cliffs are magnificent.

You may no know it, but Malta was the filming location for several key events of the Game of Thrones TV show!

So if you like this TV show, you should definitely book the Game of Thrones filming locations guided tour.

Your guides for the day will be Malcolm and his team: they all have been participating to the filming and will be able to tell you many anecdotes about your favorite show!

You can book it right here:

23. The best of Malta’s Nightlife

You’re going on a trip to Malta and you like to party?

Between the famous “Boat Parties” (I’ll tell you more about them below) and the great bars and clubs, you will for sure find great places to party in Malta.

As I want you to make the most of the Maltese nightlife, here is the list of the best bars and nightclubs on the island.

You want to have a drink? You should head there!

• The Thirsty Barber: to drink excellent cocktails to the sound of live music and in a great 1920s decor
• The Dubliner Irish Pub: for a relaxed atmosphere and beer lovers
• Hugo’s Terrace: you will find large bay windows with sea view and a good atmosphere in this bar located in Paceville. It also features a nice rooftop!

The most famous nightclubs of Malta are all located in Paceville, one of St Julian’s district.

• The Havana Club, one of the biggest Nightclubs in Malta. Free entrance!
• The Footloose, located close to the Havana
• The Bar Native a very popular place, you should go there if you enjoy latino music.

Another place I would recommend you is the Café del Mar. This outdoor club is located in Qawra, by the sea, close to Malta Aquarium.

During the day, you can rent a sunbed and enjoy the swimming pool, café and restaurant . In the evening, their pool parties are amazing!

Voyage Tips - Advice To discover the best of Malta’s nightlife with people from around the world who love to party, you should really do a Pub Crawl!

The best one is organized by Lucca, and you will see, you will have a crazy night!

You need to book it right here:

In Malta, you will have the opportunity to party on a boat at a “Boat Party”

The concept is simple:

You leave the port of Sliema at 7pm towards the north of the island for the sunset, then enjoy an open bar evening (whisky, vodka, rum, tequila, gin, beer and soft drinks) with 200 other party lovers from all over the world!

You need to book this epic party here:

The 3 best things to do in Malta with children

Are you visiting Malta with children and they’re getting tired of museums and city strolls? Here are 3 kids-friendly alternative activities:

Popeye Village is located in the North-Western part of Malta, close to Mellieha .

This village was entirely built to serve as a set for the movie “Popeye” , shot in 1980 with Robin Williams as the lead actor.

To built this gigantic set, trees were imported from Canada to build the houses, a road to the bay was created, along with a breakwater to protect the set. Once the shooting was over, they decided to keep everything intact.

Nowadays, it’s an amusement park. Kids will be able to discover characters from the movie and even act in a custom made one! The park also features boat rides, stores, trampolines and restaurants.

For more information about Popeye Village, you can visit the Official website .

While you’re on the island, why not show your children what’s around them by going to the Malta National Aquarium ?

Built in 2013, it’s located right next to Saint Paul’s Bay , in the city of Qawra .

The visit is great and very lively. You will discover all kind of sea animals from the Mediterranean and Malta region , as well as fish from the Pacific and Indian Oceans . The best part is probably the underwater tunnel with sharks and rays swimming above you. There is also an area with reptiles and amphibians.

More details are available on the Aquarium official website .

It’s a very unknown fact, but one of the first Playmobil manufacturing factory was actually in Malta , and it’s still running today.

The Playmobil Fun Park features a vast outdoor playground with Playmobil statutes , and an indoor area with all the Playmobil you can imagine to play with . Thousands of these tiny figurines are available for your kids.

You can also visit the factory and see the manufacturing process, but check the visiting hours beforehand because it’s fairly limited. The place is open to all children aged 5 years old and up.

There is also, of course, a Playmobile shop. If you’re a collector, the “Maltese Knight” Playmobil is only sold in this store!

For more information about tickets and how to get there, click here .

Where to stay in Malta: My best tips + Itineraries

When going to Malta, it’s essential to carefully choose your accommodation to avoid driving around too much.

I have made for you this simple guide of the best hotels in my favorite cities. You will see, it will be easy to find the best places to stay during your trip to Malta!

The list is specifically arranged so you can easily draft a nice itinerary from it . If you want detailed itineraries depending on the duration of your stay, you should have a look at my articles:

• Itinerary: 2-3 Days in Malta
• Itinerary: 4-5 Days in Malta
• Itinerary: 1 Week in Malta
• Itinerary: 10 Days in Malta

It’s always a good idea to start your trip by visiting Valletta, because the city is close to the airport. 1 or 2 days are enough to visit the city. That way you can also save money on you car rental by renting a car only after you’ve been in Valletta.

• 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.

The city of Mellieha , located on top of a hill, is a great place to stay at when you’re visiting the Northern part of the island (Mdina, Rabat, Gneja beaches, Ghajn Tuffieha and Golden Bay, the Red Tower, Popeye Village, Comino etc.). It’s best to stay there for 2-3 nights to explore the region.

That’s also where the Ferry to Gozo island leave from , and it’s the next stage of our itinerary!

• 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 beach.

Gozo island is rather small: getting a bed and breakfast in Victoria, Qala or Nadur is a good idea (especially if you don’t have a car). Avoid Xlendi and Marsalform: these half modern beach towns aren’t really nice. Gozo island is full of stunning spots, so I recommend you to stay for 2 or 3 nights .

• Bambina guesthouse : 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 130€/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:

Zurrieq is a great place for accommodation for two reasons; the city is close to the airport, and it’s a great starting point to go explore the South-West of Malta (Blue Grotto, Dingli cliffs, Marsaxlokk, St Peter’s pool etc.)

An ideal location to stay for 1-2 nights before flying back home !

• Luxury Room in the South Malta : Bed and Breakfast located in Zurrieq, 3km away from the airport. Big and modern double room starting from 60€/night. Best features: spacious room, very helpful owners, next to the airport et Blue Grotto.

Marsaxlokk is also a good place to end your trip before flying back:

• 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.

This tourist destination North of Valletta is perfect for you if you’re looking for brand hotels, bars, casinos and clubs.

Here are the best hotels there:

• Sliema Marina Hotel : ideally located on the waterfront, only a few meters away from the ferry to Valletta. Nicely decorated and spacious double room starting from 60€/night, breakfast for an additional 7€. Best features: great value, rooftop terrace, hot tub.
• Palazzo Violetta : located in Sliema, within walking distance of the beach. Studio apartment with kitchen amenities, modern, spacious and comfortable, starting from 100€/night, breakfast for an additional 10€. Best features: swimming pool, good location, comfortable rooms. My favorite for its amazing value for money!
• The Victoria Hotel : located in Sliema, 5min walking from the beachfront. Comfortable double room starting from 130€/night, breakfast included. Best features: rooftop swimming with sceniv view, very good breakfast, high quality restaurant for dinner.

Other activities to do in Malta

Are you up for more activities during your stay in Malta?

No problem: Here you will find the complete list, with many ideas that you will certainly enjoy. There is definitely something for you!

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

• 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
• 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

Below is the most complete tourist map of Malta . I recommend you to download it on your phone and keep it with you at all time. You can also get a paper version at the tourist information offices.

In this guide, I gave you all my best tips to plan your 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 😎

So, what do you plan to visit during your trip to Malta?

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.

The 20 Best Things to Do in Malta : The ultimate bucket list!

• Comino Blue Lagoon: the definitive guide
• Gozo: The 10 must-see attractions of the island
• Valletta: The 10 best things to do
• Quad biking in Gozo (Malta): all my best tips to enjoy this activity
• Diving in Malta: the definitive guide – Try dive, exploration diving and PADI Open Water course
• Where to stay in Malta? – My guide to the best hotels for a perfect stay in Malta

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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 13 comments.

Hi There are three of us ladies that want to come and explore during the day, relax at the beach and participate in some activities. We only coming through for 10 days (trying to push for 14 days).

22 September 2019 depart and arrive in Malta 23 September and depart again on the 4th October 2019.

We would like to have beach parties (if possible) and good nightlife for us older ladies in our late thirties and middle forties.

For the activities and places to visit, you can have a look at the 10 days itinerary i have written. It will give you a good idea of how you can organize your days!

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

About the beaches, the best ones are:

Sandy beaches:

– Ghajn Tuffieha Bay – Gnejna Bay – Ramla Bay in Gozo – Santa Marijia beach in Comino

– Delimara BayBajia ta’ Mgiebah, near Mellieha – Hondoq Bay in Gozo – Blue Lagoon in Comino

For the night life, it’s all around St Julian, Paceville and Sliema.

In Malta, there are also boat parties, but not many beach parties i think.

Enjoy your trip!

This was so helpful!! I only had a short time in Malta and am a solo traveler, and the very specific descriptions for the 2 and 3-day tours were extremely helpful! Thank you for this page!

Thanks a lot for your kind message, I am very glad my 2-3 days itinerary in Malta helped you to plan your stay.

Have a great day, and maybe see you soon on the blog for another destination 🙂

Your detailed guide for Malta has helped me organize my 5 day trip to Malta so easily! Thank you!

I have only one question. We’re staying in Tal-Pieta and we’d like to scuba dive. Do you have any suggestions on how to book it? Should we book it online or can we find something when we arrive? We might not rent a car for more than a day so we might also need transport to the scuba diving sites.

Hello Stella,

I am glad my guide of Malta is helping you to plan your trip!

Unfortunately, I have no scuba diving school to recommend in Malta, as I did scuba diving in Gozo. The underwater is a lot nicer there in my opinion, so in case you want to do it in Gozo too, you should contact Franco from Blue Waters Dive cove: +356 795 368 74 For me, it’s the best diving center of the island! And if you are in Gozo, you can take the bus to get there, and they will then take you to the diving spot in Jeep.

Enjoy your trip to Malta!

Hi Vincent,

Your blog site has been a treasure trove full of information in planning my month in Sicily.

I’ve decided to add a side trip to Malta for 4-5 nights. I’m a bit challenged locating ferry website . I have read ferry accessible from Catania or Pozzallo( with additional bus transport, since turning in my car before depart) .

2 questions do I need any covid testing to go onto island, already vaccinated? Does the ferry only run on certain days ? I wanted to be back in Sicily by sat 18,of September for tues 21/9 departure to USA .

ThankYou again for all you do, Peace, JoAnn

Thanks again!

Here are the 2 websites for the ferries: – From Pozzallo: Virtu Ferries – From Augusta: Ponte Ferries You have the timetables, the fares and you can book online.

To come to Malta (at the moment), you need a PCR test or a valid vaccination certificate, and to fill in some documents. The only accepted vaccination certificates are: – Malta Vaccine Certificate – United Kingdom Vaccination Confirmation of Two Doses Received: NHS Vaccine Certificate (Digital app version or paper certificate) – EU Digital Covid Certificate (Vaccination Certificate – Two Doses Received).

So if you have been vaccinated in the US, Malta doesn’t yet accept this certificate and you will need to have a PCR test.

As everything is changing very often at the moment, the best thing to do is to look at this official website quite often: Malta Airport . Here are all the information you need to come to Malta. This is for arrivals by plane but it is exactly the same for the ferry. You also have all the links to the documents to be filled in before coming.

If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to ask me. Have a great day!

Very informative site My question is the USA CDC has Malta at a level 4 Do not visit right now 8/26/2021 What is happening in Malta ? Can tourist visit Are sites open ? Do you know of the USA CDC will lift the do not travel ban soon?

Thank you! I’m glad that my article about the best things to do in Malta is helping you to prepare your trip.

Malta is the first country in the world for the vaccination, with rate at over 90%. There are very few Covid cases per day. Tourists from the USA can come provided they have the United States CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card with an EMA-approved vaccine, verified digitally through the VeriFLY app. You can find the info here: Travelling to Malta .

In Malta, everything is open. You can visit all the places I am talking about and do all the activities (boat trip, diving etc…). You just have to wear the mask indoors.

No one can know when the US will lift the travel ban unfortunately (😅)

It’s unbelievable how great this article is! Many many thanks for it! It was so helpful and accurate!!

Kind regards.

THANK YOU!!

very nice article . Helped me a loot with organizing my trip!!

Huge thanksssssssssss 😉

Thanks Peter! I’m glad my article with the best things to do in Malta will help you prepare for your stay.

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There are the usual attractions of the Maltese Islands: a walk through Valletta , a visit to a megalithic temple, a swim at the Blue Lagoon, a meal al fresco by the sea, a trip to Gozo ... and then there are the unusual activity firsts that create a memory you'll carry all your life. Like flying a plane, for example. You can do that in Malta. And other cool things too. Here are our favourite six unusual activities that you can try in Malta.

1. Pole dancing

Pole Fitness or Pole Dancing in Malta is a relatively recent addition to the myriad activities available here. Combining dance and acrobatics centered on a vertical pole, the days of association purely with gentleman's clubs is gone. This performance art has gained popularity as a mainstream form of fitness that increases muscular endurance and coordination as well as sensuality. Try it, it's really good fun!

2. Deep water soloing

When Malta is referred to by locals as 'the rock', you can imagine what a heaven it is for rock climbers, abseilers, zip liners and so on. One rock sport you can try that you may not have heard of and requires no gear but lots of willpower is deep water soloing. Climb the coastal rocks and drop neatly into the water when you can go no further. Try it safely by contacting the Malta Rock Climbing Club .

3. Playing with fire

Get in touch with the fire element this time. Or simply have a go at juggling any instrument from a variety of staffs, pois , balls and other juggling toys. You may just find a new passion to take back home. Place a post on Juggling Malta to find people to play with, they'll usually be happy to let you use their toys.  

4. Flyboarding

Now here's a cool water sport that takes to the air! Just think of what you could do with a water jet pack that hydro propels you into the air so that you are essentially flying over water jets! Rent this cool gadget at Fly Board Malta , complete with instruction.

5. Trial flight

Taste flying a plane immediately with a trial flight. After safety induction and basic instruction, you are already piloting a real plane reassured by dual controls and continued instruction. Into the air, get a feel for the horizon, nudge the joystick and see places like the Grand Harbour, Mdina and Gozo from a bird’s eye view. You get to fly the sleek DA20 or 40 for one hour with Diamond Aviation .

6. Quad Bike Tours

Although road bound, quad bike tours in Malta and Gozo are a unique way to explore the Maltese Islands, provided you have a licence and are over 25. Check in with the Malta Quad Bike Association  to find out how to set out exploring on these cool four wheels. 

Which of these unusual activities in Malta will you be trying first? Let us know in the comments below!

12th May 2018

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12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Valletta

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Valletta is a distinguished city with a legendary past. The UNESCO-listed capital of Malta stands proudly on one of Europe's grandest harbors, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and surrounded by some of the mightiest fortifications in the world.

The city's history is tied to the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem, an 11th-century order that provided shelter for pilgrims in the Holy Land and took on a military role to defend Christianity. In 1530, the Spanish King, Charles V, gave Malta to the Knights.

Once Valletta became the new military fortress of the Order of Saint John, the Knights set out to create a capital city equal to Europe's finest. The grand Baroque architecture reflects the Knights' stature as aristocrats from noble families in England, France, Spain, and other European countries. Valletta is called "a city built by gentlemen for gentlemen."

Today, Valletta is a real working city and a delightful tourist destination. You are sure to be impressed by the array of historic monuments and program of cultural offerings.

Learn about the best places to visit in this fascinating city with our list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Valletta.

See also: Where to Stay in Valletta

1. Saint John's Co-Cathedral

2. grandmaster's palace and armory, 3. cruise around the grand harbor, 4. national museum of archaeology, 5. upper barrakka gardens and military ceremonies, 6. casa rocca piccola: an aristocratic maltese home, 7. manoel theater: one of the oldest theaters in europe, 8. collegiate parish church of saint paul's shipwreck, 9. visit muża (national museum of fine arts), 10. valletta waterfront, 11. festivals, theater, and cultural events, 12. world war ii history, where to stay in valletta for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in valletta.

Saint John's Co-Cathedral reflects the wealth and success of the Knights of Malta. The Knights of Malta protected Europe from attacks by the Ottoman Turks in the 16th century. This opulent cathedral was built as a symbol of Christian victory.

The nave exemplifies extravagant Baroque decor with ostentatiously gilded walls and ceiling paintings by Mattia Preti, the famous Maltese painter. The most renowned artwork in the church is The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist by Caravaggio in the Oratory.

The various chapels of Saint John's Co-Cathedral represent the different langues (regions) of the Knights of Malta, who hailed from many different countries in Europe.

Among the eight chapels are a few must-see highlights: The Chapel of the Langue of Aragon (the region of Catalonia and Navarre in Spain) features Mattia Preti's painting of Saint George on a white stallion after slaying a dragon. The Chapel of the Langue of Italy displays the famous work of Saint-Jerome Writing by Caravaggio .

After visiting Saint John's Co-Cathedral , you can walk down Republic Street to explore the area around Palace Square on the way to the next attraction: the Grandmaster's Palace. This area has many quaint shops, cafés, and restaurants.

A great place to visit is the famous establishment Caffe Cordina (244 Republic Street), a fancy café that serves traditional Maltese pastries along with coffee and tea.

Address: Saint John's Street, Valletta

The Grandmaster's Palace reveals the architectural splendor of an important cultural monument. At the center of Palace Square , this Baroque palace was built in the 16th century as a residence for the Knights of Malta. The palace continues to host official state ceremonies today.

Part of the building serves as the Office of the President of Malta and as the House of Representatives. The rest of the building is open to the public as a museum.

You enter the building through an elegant garden courtyard, which leads upstairs to grandiose hallways with lavish 18th-century frescos.

The enormous Palace State Rooms are richly decorated with gilded moldings and works of art. Highlights include a series of murals that illustrate a complete narration of the Great Siege of 1565.

The Hall of the Ambassadors , also known as the "Red Room," is adorned with portraits of the Grandmasters, who led the Knights to victory. One of the paintings depicts the dignified-looking Grandmaster Jean de Vallette, founder of the city of Valletta.

The Palace Armoury displays Knights' armor and weapons (swords, bows, firearms, and cannons) dating from the 15th to the 18th century. This collection reveals that the Knights of Malta were not ordinary soldiers, they were aristocratic warriors equipped with the most elaborate armor and weapons that money could buy. You can pick up a helmet to feel the actual weight.

Address: Palace Square, Valletta

Valletta owes much of its military success to its strategic location on the Grand Harbor. This enormous port could dock its battleships and still keep invaders out by closing off the entrance. The entire harbor is surrounded by massive fortifications, bastions, and defensive towers.

This formidable setting was the scene of the Great Siege of 1565 , the most famous event in Malta's history. Led by Grandmaster Jean de Valette, the Knights heroically defeated the Ottoman Turk invaders.

Today, the Grand Harbor allows entry of large commercial ships, ocean liners, and cruise ships.

Shaped like a multi-pronged fork, the harbor branches off into smaller creeks with small yacht marinas and boat docks. The Valletta Grand Harbor provides enough docks for thousands of boats, making it one of the largest marinas in the world.

The entire Grand Harbor area encompasses a semicircle of densely populated little towns, including Kalkara, Vittoriosa, Cospicua, Senglea, Paola, and Marsa.

Just across from Valletta, the towns of Vittoriosa, Cospicua, and Senglea, known as the " Three Cities " were the original settlement of the Knights. These towns are filled with historical monuments, such as auberges of the Knights, beautiful Baroque churches, and important military forts.

For an enjoyable and educational experience, take a guided boat tour of the Grand Harbor. Boat cruises depart from Sliema, a seaside town located across the Marsamxett Harbor, a short bus ride or drive away from Valletta.

The National Museum of Archeology is housed in the former Auberge de Provence , the historic residence of the Knights originating from the Provence region in France. The building dates to 1571 and is a wonderful example of Baroque architecture. The Grand Salon is especially noteworthy, with its richly painted walls and wood-beamed ceiling.

The museum's exceptional archaeology collection tells the story of Malta through a chronological presentation. Exhibits include prehistoric artifacts and architectural elements found at megalithic sites, as well as ancient Roman objects and medieval antiquities.

The museum is renowned for its Prehistoric collection , an extensive array of artifacts from the Maltese Islands' megalithic temples. These Neolithic-era archaeological finds include 6,000- to 7,000-year-old pottery, ornaments, altars, limestone statuettes, terra cotta bowls, and cult utensils. Highlights are the Venus of Malta statue and other "Fat" statues from Ħaġar Qim Temples.

The time periods represented by the collection span the prehistoric era, continuing until the Phoenician period of antiquity (6th century BCE). A noteworthy piece from the Phoenician gallery is the bronze Horus & Anubis pendant . This pendant features the Egyptian Gods believed to deliver divine assistance in the afterlife.

A small room houses The Sleeping Lady , considered a masterpiece of prehistoric art. This tiny figurine of a woman lying on a couch evokes a surprising amount of emotion. It's astonishing to consider that this small statuette has survived five millennia.

Address: Auberge de Provence, Republic Street, Valletta

The picturesque Upper Barrakka Gardens encircle part of the city's old fortifications, built on Valletta's highest point. The peaceful tree-shaded gardens feature fountains, flowerbeds, rows of archways, and statues of prominent historical figures including Winston Churchill.

Multiple viewpoints around the gardens afford different outlooks. Walk around to discover awe-inspiring panoramas of the Grand Harbor. It's possible to see across to the towns of Vittoriosa, Cospicua, and Kalkara.

The level below the gardens is the Saluting Battery (a former bastion), which is lined with military cannons. This space is now used for outdoor weddings and ceremonial events.

A traditional Gun Salute ceremony takes place every day at noon on the Saluting Battery, performed by members of the Malta Heritage Society dressed in authentic British Artillery uniforms. This ceremony includes firing the cannons.

Tips : The Upper Barrakka Gardens is next to Castille Place. To arrive here, go to the Victoria Gate and turn left past the Church of Saint Mary of Jesus onto Saint Ursula Street. The entrance to the Upper Barrakka Gardens is at the end of the street. There is also an elevator at the foot of Saint Barbara Bastion that goes up 60 meters to the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Address: Saint Ursula Street, Valletta

Get a glimpse of a 16th-century aristocratic palace that has been passed down through the generations. The ancestral family still lives at the Casa Rocca Piccola , while also welcoming the public to visit for guided tours.

The palace was built for Don Pietro La Rocca, one of the Knights of Malta. The current owners are the 9th Marquis and Marchioness de Piro (Nicholas & Frances de Piro).

On the guided tour, you will see the palace's elegant interior, including two dining rooms, a bedroom, the salons, and the small family chapel. One of the rooms displays a family tree that traces their noble lineage back several generations.

The rooms are decorated with antique 16th-century furniture, Murano glass chandeliers imported from Venice, and crystal chandeliers from Bohemia. In the Sala Grande , there is a distinctive portable chapel, a cabinet crafted from black lacquer with an altar inside that was designed for personal devotion.

The palace features a charming courtyard garden, typical of Mediterranean architecture. Also within the property is an inviting restaurant, La Giara , which serves authentic regional Sicilian cuisine. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner.

Several of the palace bedrooms have been renovated for use as bed-and-breakfast accommodations . Breakfast is served on the courtyard garden's sunny terrace or in a cozy room that looks out onto the courtyard.

The Casa Rocca Piccola is a short walk away from the Grandmaster's Palace. Hours are Monday through Saturday from 10am until 5pm; closed on Sundays. Guided tours are available on the hour; the last admission is at 4pm.

Address: 53 Saint Dominic Street, Valletta

This magnificent little theater was commissioned in 1731 by António Manoel de Vilhena, Grand Master of the Knights of Malta. With this distinguished heritage, the Manoel Theater ranks among the oldest theaters in Europe.

The lavishly decorated auditorium features gilded box seats and plush velvet chairs. Every seat in the house offers a good view, and the acoustics of the oval room are excellent.

You may visit the theater by taking a guided tour. The tours are offered several times daily, Monday through Saturday.

Throughout the year, the Manoel Theater hosts performances including music concerts and classic opera. Book your tickets in advance to enjoy an evening performance in this sensational historic setting.

In January, the Manoel Theater hosts a two-week Baroque Festival featuring the music of Vivaldi and Bach.

Address: 115 Old Theater Street, Valletta

The Church of Saint Paul's Shipwreck dates back to the 1570s, making it one of the first churches built in Malta. The monument was later renovated in Baroque style, with a domed interior designed by Lorenzo Gafa.

As befits a church dedicated to Malta's patron saint, the interior is sumptuous and houses venerated relics. Pope Pius VII donated the most precious relic, the block upon which Saint Paul was said to have been beheaded, as well as what is believed to be part of his wrist bone.

Step into the sanctuary to admire splendid works of art. Don't miss the church's ceiling frescoes, which depict Saint Paul's brief sojourn in Malta. The main altarpiece displays a painting of Saint Paul and Saint Luke in a scene of the shipwreck. This work was painted by Matteo Perez d'Aleccio in 1580.

The church possesses a gilded wooden statue of Saint Paul that is paraded through the streets of Valletta on February 10th every year. This date commemorates the day Saint Paul's shipwreck occurred. The town celebrates this event with much festivity.

Address: 74 Saint Paul Street, Valletta

Malta's National Museum of Fine Arts (MUŻA) displays its collection in a majestic palace, the Auberge d'Italie . The Knights of Malta, originally from Italy, resided here. The monumental staircase at the entrance makes a grand first impression when you visit the museum.

The museum's collection represents important works of Maltese art from the 12th century to the 20th century, as well as noteworthy pieces by other European artists.

There is an excellent assortment of works by the famous artist of Malta, Mattia Preti , who was from Calabria in Southern Italy. His most renowned work on display here is the Baptism of Christ painting.

The museum also boasts a few masterpieces by Italian artist Guido Reni and the exceptional Judith and Holofernes painting by Valentin de Boulogne.

Another exquisite painting that stands out in the collection is the early Impressionist View of the Grand Harbor by J.M.W. Turner.

Address: Merchants Street, Valletta

Discover an atmospheric area of Valletta where locals hang out. At this hidden spot, you can enjoy laid-back waterfront dining without the tourist crowds.

The row of Baroque buildings along the Marsamxett Harbor was commissioned in the 18th century by Grand Master Manuel Pinto de Fonseca. The buildings were once used as warehouses, to store goods unloaded at the docks. The different colors of the doors indicated the type of contents stored inside: yellow represented wheat, and blue was for seafood.

The warehouse buildings have been beautifully restored, and the pathway has been enlarged. A selection of restaurants is found along the palm-fringed waterside promenade.

Valletta has earned the title "European Capital of Culture" because of its happening art scene and well-rounded calendar of cultural events.

The Malta International Arts Festival draws talent from all over the world to perform at various venues in Valletta, as well as in other towns on the Island of Malta. From folk music concerts to contemporary dance and theater performances, and even circus acts, the program includes a wide range of events on the calendar (June and July).

Another high-profile cultural event in July is the Malta Jazz Festival , with concerts held in Valletta and at other nearby locations.

Various locations on the Maltese Islands host the spectacular Malta International Fireworks Festival . The tradition of fireworks goes back to the era of the Knights of the Order of Saint John.

For exuberance and tradition, it's hard to match the Feast of Saint John the Baptist on June 24th. Valletta's important churches are illuminated, and marching bands parade through the town carrying icons, while locals throw confetti and enjoy the merriment.

Malta's National War Museum gives you a sense of the country's fascinating military history. Exhibits cover various epochs, beginning with ancient artifacts from the Bronze Age, continuing through the era of the Knights of Saint John, and later the period of British rule.

The collection features interesting content about the Second World War, including a War Memorial that showcases an assortment of medals awarded for bravery. The collection continues through the 20th century until 2004, when Malta joined the European Union.

The National War Museum is housed within the Fort St. Elmo , built in 1552 for the Order of Saint John Knights. Fort St. Elmo played a critical role during the Great Siege of 1565. The star-shaped fortress provides commanding views of the Grand Harbor and the Marsamxett Harbor.

The Lascaris War Rooms underneath the Upper Barrakka Gardens is an underground tunnel complex. Here, you can see the original fighter control rooms, where WWII operations against the Germans and Italians were planned.

Valletta offers cultural attractions, lively ambience, plenty of things to do, and a variety of hotels and restaurants. Anywhere within Valletta's walled historic center is close to the top tourist sights. In fact, it's possible to walk across the entire city center in less than an hour, by taking a leisurely stroll. We recommend these highly rated hotels in Valletta's historic city center or just outside the Valletta City Gate.

Luxury Hotels :

• Steps away from the Valletta City Gate, The Phoenicia Malta is a sumptuous five-star hotel set in seven acres of gardens. Amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, a fine-dining restaurant, spa, fitness center, free parking, and room service. Guest rooms feature bright Mediterranean decor. The pool area and many of the rooms afford breathtaking views of the Grand Harbor.
• Within the historic city center, the Domus Zamittello is a four-star boutique hotel that occupies a lovely 17th-century palazzo. This prestigious property has been renovated with comfortable lounge areas and an outdoor terrace. Adorned in classic style, the guest rooms feature fine linens and luxuriously plush towels. Amenities include concierge services, transportation arrangements, and complimentary continental breakfast.
• The Casa Ellul is a hidden gem in the middle of the city center. This four-star boutique hotel occupies a Victorian-era palazzo but has only nine guest suites, giving the place an intimate and exclusive feel. The suites are decorated in a sophisticated modern style and feature balconies or private terraces with fabulous city views. The hotel offers concierge services and airport transportation arrangements.
• On a quiet street in the historic city center, La Falconeria offers refined accommodations in a centuries-old building. Amenities of this four-star hotel include a concierge, fitness center, indoor swimming pool, and a rooftop sundeck. Guest rooms feature sleek modern decor; suites have outdoor terraces. Breakfast is complimentary.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• The Palais Le Brun occupies a 17th-century palace appreciated for its elegant Baroque architecture. This four-star hotel offers spacious guest rooms that feature Persian carpets, espresso machines, and marble-accented bathrooms. Hotel amenities include a Maltese restaurant, rooftop swimming pool, complimentary buffet breakfast, and room service.
• The four-star Palazzo Paolina Boutique Hotel occupies a Baroque palace at the heart of the city center. The tastefully appointed guest rooms are outfitted with coffee makers and cable television. The hotel offers a concierge and a complimentary breakfast buffet.
• For reasonably priced accommodations in a historic building, the Castille Hotel is a good choice. This three-star hotel occupies a 16th-century palace next to Upper Barrakka Gardens. The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, concierge, and on-site restaurant. The complimentary breakfast buffet is served on an outdoor terrace with views of the harbor.

Budget Hotels :

• Perched above Valletta's historic bastions, the Grand Harbour Hotel features dazzling views of the seaport. This two-star hotel provides modern accommodations with a 24-hour front desk and a complimentary breakfast buffet. A rooftop terrace affords unobstructed vistas of the Valletta harbor, including the towns of Senglea and Kalkara across the harbor.
• In a great location overlooking the Grand Harbor, the two-star British Hotel in the city center provides simple but sufficient accommodations at a great value. The main selling point of this hotel is the astounding view of Valletta's seaport.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Nearby Attractions on the Island of Malta : Travelers could spend an entire one-week vacation in Valletta and simply make day trips to other tourist attractions on the island of Malta . Many of the top tourist destinations on Malta are less than a three-hour drive away, including the enchanting medieval hilltop town of Mdina and the UNESCO-listed Hal Saflieni Hypogeum archaeological site.

Other Dreamy Mediterranean Islands : For an idyllic seaside getaway, the island of Gozo can be visited as a day trip from Valletta (by organized boat tour) and is equally appealing as a week-long vacation destination focused on sunbathing and sightseeing. Another island-hopping idea is to take the ferry from Valletta to the island of Sicily , a place of stunning Mediterranean scenery, amazing ancient temples, and charming historic towns.

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• Travel Guide
• Beaches & Islands

Malta: A Beautiful, Crazy, Formidable, Vibrant Island

Published: September 7, 2023

Modified: January 3, 2024

by Krystalle Grooms

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Destinations

Introduction

Malta, a tiny archipelago in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, picturesque beaches, and rich cultural heritage, it is no wonder that Malta has become a coveted destination for travelers from around the world.

Steeped in history that dates back thousands of years, Malta offers a unique blend of captivating landscapes, fascinating architecture, and a vibrant local culture. From the ancient temples of Mnajdra to the historic capital city of Valletta, this island paradise has something to offer for every type of traveler.

Despite its small size, Malta packs a punch when it comes to breathtaking natural beauty. The rugged coastline is dotted with stunning cliffs, hidden coves, and pristine sandy beaches. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sun-drenched shores or explore the underwater world through diving and snorkeling, Malta offers a wide range of options for beach and nature lovers alike.

But Malta is not just about sun, sand, and sea. It is a vibrant hub of cultural diversity, with influences from various civilizations that have left their mark on the island. From the Phoenicians and Romans to the Arabs and the Knights of St. John, each era has contributed to the unique tapestry that is Malta’s cultural heritage.

The Maltese people are warm, friendly, and proud of their island. Their hospitality is legendary, and visitors will find themselves welcomed with open arms wherever they go. The official language is Maltese, a unique blend of Arabic and European languages, but English is also widely spoken, making it easy for tourists to communicate and navigate their way around the island.

As you explore Malta, you’ll also have the opportunity to indulge in the delicious flavors of traditional Maltese cuisine. From mouthwatering pastizzi (flaky pastries filled with ricotta or mushy peas) to rich rabbit stew and fresh seafood dishes, the local food will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking for a relaxing beach getaway, Malta has it all. Join us as we take a deep dive into the captivating beauty and vibrant energy of this amazing island, and discover why Malta should be on the top of your travel bucket list.

History of Malta

Malta has a history that stretches back over 7,000 years, making it one of the oldest inhabited places in Europe. Throughout its rich and diverse past, the island has been influenced by various civilizations and has played a crucial role in shaping Mediterranean history.

The earliest evidence of human habitation in Malta dates back to around 5,200 BC, when a prehistoric culture known as the Temple Builders flourished on the island. These ancient people left behind awe-inspiring Megalithic temples, such as Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, which are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites today.

In 800 BC, Phoenician settlers arrived in Malta and established trading posts on the island. They were later followed by the Romans, who made Malta a part of their vast empire. The Romans left their mark on the island through the construction of magnificent structures, such as the Roman Villa in Rabat and the Domvs Romana in Mdina.

During the medieval period, Malta became a stronghold of the Knights of St. John, a military monastic order. The knights fortified the island and played a pivotal role in defending Europe against the Ottoman Empire. Their legacy can still be seen today in the grand architecture of Valletta, the capital city.

In the early 19th century, Malta came under British rule and remained a British colony for over 150 years. This period had a profound impact on the island’s development, as Malta became an important naval base and experienced significant modernization and urban expansion.

Malta gained independence from British rule in 1964 and became a republic in 1974. Since then, the island has undergone rapid economic growth and has become a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Today, remnants of Malta’s storied past are scattered across the island, from ancient temples and Roman ruins to medieval fortifications and British architecture. The diverse influences from different civilizations have shaped the unique cultural identity of Malta, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.

Exploring the historical sites of Malta is like stepping back in time, where you can imagine the lives of the people who once inhabited this remarkable island. From ancient temples and underground catacombs to grand palaces and fortresses, Malta’s history is waiting to be discovered and experienced firsthand.

Geographical Features

Malta may be small in size, but it packs a diverse range of geographical features within its archipelago. Situated in the central Mediterranean Sea, Malta is comprised of three islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino.

The main island of Malta is characterized by stunning coastal cliffs, picturesque bays, and golden sandy beaches. The coastline is dotted with natural harbors, including the Grand Harbour in Valletta, making it a popular destination for sailing enthusiasts. The iconic Azure Window, a natural limestone arch that was featured in films and TV shows, unfortunately collapsed due to erosion in 2017, but the island still boasts other magnificent coastal formations.

The island of Gozo, located just north of Malta, offers a more rustic and laid-back experience. Gozo is known for its dramatic landscapes, including the famous Inland Sea and the stunning Wied il-Mielaħ Window. The countryside is dotted with picturesque villages and rolling hills, making it a paradise for hiking and cycling enthusiasts.

Comino, the smallest of the three islands, is a tranquil haven known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and secluded coves. The island is car-free, allowing visitors to explore its unspoiled beauty on foot or by kayak. The Blue Lagoon, a shallow bay with iridescent blue waters, is one of the most popular attractions in Comino.

In addition to its coastal beauty, Malta also boasts several enchanting natural caves and grottos. The Blue Grotto, located on the southeast coast of Malta, is a series of seven caves that can be explored by boat. The Cathedral Cave, located in Gozo, is another popular attraction that offers a breathtaking display of natural rock formations.

Despite its relatively arid climate, Malta is home to an astonishing variety of flora and fauna. The Maltese Islands are home to over 400 species of plants, some of which are endemic to the region. The islands are also a paradise for birdwatchers, with migratory birds passing through during the spring and autumn seasons.

Whether you’re exploring the rugged cliffs and hidden beaches of Malta, discovering the tranquil landscapes of Gozo, or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters surrounding Comino, the geographical features of the Maltese Islands offer a myriad of opportunities to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty.

Cultural Diversity

Malta, with its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, has a rich tapestry of cultural influences that have shaped its unique identity. Throughout its history, the island has been inhabited by various civilizations, each leaving their mark on the Maltese culture.

One of the notable influences on Maltese culture is the Phoenician civilization, which arrived on the island around 800 BC. The Phoenicians introduced their language, trade practices, and maritime skills, laying the foundation for Malta’s future as a trading hub.

Roman rule from around 218 BC to 395 AD also had a profound impact on the island. Roman architecture, infrastructure, and customs became ingrained in Maltese society, as seen in the remains of Roman villas, bathhouses, and temples scattered across the islands.

The Arab period, spanning from the 9th to the 12th century, brought Islamic influences to Malta. The Arab occupation left a lasting impact on the Maltese language, with many Arabic words still present in the local dialect. The Arab influence can also be seen in the architecture and the intricate tile work found in historical buildings.

The most iconic cultural influence in Malta, however, comes from the Knights of St. John, a religious and military order that arrived on the island in 1530. The knights brought with them their European customs, Gothic architecture, and a dedication to the Catholic faith. Their legacy is still prominent today, especially in Valletta, where magnificent churches, grand palaces, and fortified walls showcase their architectural prowess.

Malta’s cultural diversity extends beyond its historical influences, as the island has also been shaped by migration patterns throughout the centuries. Over the years, waves of immigrants from neighboring countries, including Italy and North Africa, have contributed to the cultural melting pot of Malta.

Today, Malta is a vibrant blend of cultures, with traditions and customs passed down through generations. The Maltese people take pride in their cultural heritage and celebrate it through various festivals, music, dance, and culinary traditions.

From the colorful religious processions during Easter to the lively village feasts dedicated to local patron saints, the Maltese calendar is filled with festivities that bring neighborhoods and communities together. These celebrations offer a unique opportunity to experience the cultural vibrancy and hospitality of the Maltese people.

Malta’s cultural diversity is not just limited to its local population. As a popular tourist destination, the island welcomes visitors from around the world, adding an international flavor to its already diverse culture. The fusion of different languages, cuisines, and perspectives make Malta a truly cosmopolitan destination.

Exploring the cultural diversity of Malta is a fascinating journey through time and across continents. From ancient ruins to modern festivities, the island’s rich tapestry of influences promises a captivating and enriching experience for every traveler.

The Maltese Language

The Maltese language is a unique and fascinating aspect of the island’s cultural heritage. It is the only Semitic language written in the Latin script, making it a highly distinctive and intriguing linguistic treasure.

Maltese is derived from a mixture of Arabic, Sicilian, Italian, and English, showcasing the diverse influences that have shaped Malta’s history. The Arabic influence is particularly strong, with around 40% of Maltese vocabulary derived from the Arabic language.

Despite its Arabic roots, Maltese has evolved into a language with its own grammar and syntax. It has adopted loanwords from various other languages, including Italian, English, and French, further enriching its vocabulary.

One unique feature of the Maltese language is its phonetics. With its guttural sounds and distinctive intonation, Maltese can be quite challenging for non-native speakers. However, most Maltese people are fluent in English, making communication easy for visitors.

While English is widely spoken and considered the second official language of Malta, the Maltese language holds a special place in the hearts of the local population. It is the language of everyday communication, the language passed down from generation to generation, and the language used in literature, music, and theater.

Language plays a significant role in preserving cultural identity, and the Maltese language is a testament to the resilience and pride of the Maltese people. It serves as a powerful symbol of their heritage and the blend of influences that has shaped Malta into the culturally diverse and unique destination it is today.

Visitors to Malta will often hear the melodic tones of the Maltese language in the streets, cafes, and markets. Even if you don’t understand the words, listening to the rhythmic flow of the language adds to the overall experience of immersing oneself in Maltese culture.

For those eager to learn a few basic Maltese phrases, the locals are always appreciative of the effort. Simple greetings, like “bonġu” (hello) and “ħaj” (goodbye), can go a long way in breaking the ice and connecting with the friendly Maltese people.

The Maltese language is a living testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the Maltese Islands. It serves as a bridge between the past and the present, connecting generations and preserving the essence of this beautiful destination.

Traditional Maltese Cuisine

Malta’s gastronomy is a reflection of its rich cultural heritage, blending flavors and techniques from various civilizations that have shaped the island’s history. Traditional Maltese cuisine is a true fusion of Mediterranean influences, offering a delightful array of dishes that are both hearty and flavorful.

One iconic dish that encapsulates the essence of Maltese cuisine is pastizzi. These flaky pastries, typically filled with either ricotta cheese or mushy peas, are a popular snack enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. Pastizzi vendors can be found throughout the island, and indulging in a warm pastizz is a must for any visit to Malta.

Another staple in Maltese cuisine is rabbit stew, locally known as “fenek.” Considered a traditional delicacy, fenek is slow-cooked with garlic, onions, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic herbs. The result is a tender and flavorful dish that showcases the island’s culinary heritage.

Seafood plays a prominent role in Maltese cuisine, thanks to Malta’s abundant coastline. Fresh fish, such as lampuki (dorado), grouper, and octopus, are frequently enjoyed by locals. One popular seafood dish is aljotta, a fragrant fish soup made with tomatoes, garlic, parsley, and a touch of lemon. It is a comforting and satisfying dish, especially when paired with crusty Maltese bread.

Malta also offers an intriguing variety of traditional sweets and desserts. One such treat is kannoli tal-irkotta, a sweet pastry filled with a sweetened ricotta cheese mixture. These delectable treats are often enjoyed during festive occasions, and their delicate and creamy texture is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

No meal in Malta is complete without a glass of local wine. The sunny climate and fertile soil make Malta an ideal region for vineyards. The island produces a wide range of excellent wines, including the indigenous Ġellewża and the full-bodied Merlot. Visitors can explore the local wineries, participate in wine tastings, and discover the unique flavors that Malta has to offer.

Exploring traditional Maltese cuisine can be a culinary adventure filled with delicious surprises. To truly immerse yourself in the local flavors, venture beyond the bustling restaurants and seek out traditional village feasts, where you can savor authentic homemade dishes prepared with love and tradition.

Whether you’re indulging in pastizzi, savoring a hearty plate of fenek, or treating your taste buds to the richness of Maltese desserts, traditional Maltese cuisine will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the island’s distinct culinary heritage.

Key Tourist Attractions

Malta is a treasure trove of captivating tourist attractions, offering a diverse range of experiences for visitors to explore. From ancient temples and historic cities to stunning natural landmarks and crystal-clear waters, there is something for everyone in this enchanting destination.

One of the top attractions in Malta is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Valletta. This fortified city, built by the Knights of St. John, is a living museum of architecture, with its grand palaces, ornate churches, and mesmerizing views of the Mediterranean Sea. Strolling along the cobblestone streets, visiting the Grand Master’s Palace, and exploring the St. John’s Co-Cathedral are just a few of the must-see sights in Valletta.

The ancient Megalithic Temples of Malta, such as Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, are another incredible attraction. These prehistoric temples date back over 5,000 years, making them older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. The intricate stone structures and mysterious history of these temples offer a fascinating glimpse into Malta’s ancient past.

The Blue Grotto is a natural wonder that should not be missed. Located on the southern coast of Malta, this series of caves showcases stunning rock formations and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the caves, marvel at the colors of the sea, and witness the beauty of this unique geological formation.

No visit to Malta is complete without experiencing the enchanting island of Gozo. Known for its serene landscapes, charming villages, and beautiful coastline, Gozo offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life of Malta. The famous Azure Window may have collapsed, but Gozo still boasts stunning natural attractions like the Inland Sea, Ramla Bay, and the Citadel in Victoria.

The fortified city of Mdina, also known as the Silent City, is another highlight for history lovers. This medieval walled city is a time capsule of narrow streets, distinctive architecture, and ancient palaces. Walking through Mdina feels like stepping back in time, and the panoramic views from the city walls are simply breathtaking.

For those seeking beach relaxation, Malta has an abundance of beautiful sandy shores. Golden Bay, Mellieħa Bay, and Ramla Bay are just a few examples of the stunning beaches where visitors can bask in the Mediterranean sun and swim in the clear blue waters.

These are just a few key attractions that highlight the diverse beauty and historical significance of Malta. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a sun-soaked beach vacation, Malta has an array of attractions to captivate your imagination and create memories that will last a lifetime.

The Festivals of Malta

Malta is a vibrant and festive destination, with a calendar filled with colorful celebrations and lively events. The island’s rich cultural heritage is showcased through an array of festivals that combine religious traditions, music, dance, and revelry.

One of the most popular and cherished festivals in Malta is the Feast of St. Paul’s Shipwreck. Held in February, this religious celebration commemorates the shipwreck of the apostle Paul on the island. The capital city of Valletta becomes a stage for processions, fireworks, and music, captivating both locals and visitors alike.

During the summer months, village feasts are held throughout Malta and Gozo. These feasts are dedicated to local patron saints and are a true spectacle of devotion, culture, and tradition. Festivities include marching bands, decorative street lights, firework displays, and elaborately decorated statues carried through the streets. The atmosphere is electric, and the feasts offer a unique opportunity to experience the genuine hospitality and joy of the Maltese people.

The Malta Arts Festival, held in July, brings together local and international artists for a diverse program of music, theater, dance, and visual arts. This festival showcases the island’s rich artistic talent and offers a platform for creativity and cultural exchange.

In September, the International Jazz Festival takes center stage, featuring renowned jazz musicians from around the world. The festival attracts jazz enthusiasts and music lovers who gather to enjoy soulful performances in enchanting venues across the island.

Throughout the year, Malta also hosts various music festivals catering to different genres. The Isle of MTV Malta Music Week in July attracts top international artists for a spectacular open-air concert. The Farsons Great Beer Festival celebrates the local brewing tradition, offering a variety of local and international beers, live music performances, and entertainment for all ages.

Religious processions play a significant role in Maltese culture, particularly during Easter. The Good Friday processions, known as “Passjoni,” take place in various towns and villages, depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ. These solemn and visually stunning processions are a powerful expression of faith and attract spectators from all walks of life.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a music lover, or interested in experiencing the deep religious traditions of Malta, the festivals on this vibrant island provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry and celebrate life in true Maltese style.

Outdoor Activities in Malta

With its stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and sunny climate, Malta is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or simply looking to soak up the Mediterranean sun, the island offers a plethora of outdoor activities to suit every taste.

Water sports are a popular choice for visitors to Malta, given its pristine sea and abundant marine life. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts will be delighted by the underwater world that surrounds the islands. The clear waters reveal colorful coral reefs, fascinating shipwrecks, and an array of marine species, providing an unforgettable underwater experience.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, jet skiing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding are popular options. The calm and steady breeze along the coastline make these activities enjoyable for both beginners and experienced thrill-seekers.

If you prefer to stay on land, Malta offers excellent opportunities for hiking and cycling. The islands boast scenic trails that take you through picturesque countryside, along rugged cliffs, and to hidden coves. The Majjistral Nature and History Park in Malta and the countryside in Gozo are particularly favored among hikers and cyclists.

Rock climbing enthusiasts will find plenty of challenges on the limestone cliffs that dot the Maltese landscape. Companies offer guided tours and climbing courses for beginners, as well as more advanced routes for experienced climbers.

Malta is also an ideal destination for golfers, with a selection of world-class golf courses nestled amongst beautiful surroundings. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, the well-maintained fairways and idyllic settings provide an unforgettable golfing experience.

Exploring the islands by boat is a popular activity for tourists. Boat tours offer the chance to discover the hidden caves, secluded beaches, and stunning coastline of Malta. Visitors can also charter yachts or join sailing excursions to experience the thrill of cruising the blue Mediterranean waters.

Malta’s countryside is a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts, especially during the spring and autumn seasons when migratory birds pass through the islands. The nature reserves and wetlands provide habitats for a diverse range of bird species, offering endless opportunities to spot rare and exotic birds.

Yoga and wellness retreats have also gained popularity in Malta, with their serene surroundings and tranquil ambiance. Various resorts and wellness centers offer yoga classes, meditation sessions, and spa treatments, allowing visitors to rejuvenate their mind, body, and soul.

Whether you prefer the thrill of water sports, the serenity of hiking trails, or the tranquility of a wellness retreat, Malta provides numerous outdoor activities to suit every interest and level of adventure. Embrace the natural beauty of the islands and create unforgettable memories in this stunning Mediterranean paradise.

Nightlife in Malta

When the sun goes down, Malta comes alive with a vibrant and energetic nightlife scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. From bustling nightclubs and beach parties to cozy bars and elegant wine bars, the island offers a diverse range of options to enjoy after dark.

For those looking to dance the night away, Paceville in St. Julian’s is the epicenter of Malta’s nightlife. This bustling area is home to a multitude of nightclubs, where world-famous DJs spin the latest tunes and international dancers entertain the crowds. The atmosphere is electric, with people from all walks of life gathering to enjoy a night of music, dancing, and fun.

For a more laid-back evening, there are numerous bars and pubs throughout Malta where you can unwind with a drink and enjoy the company of friends or fellow travelers. From stylish rooftop bars with panoramic views to cozy taverns with live music, there is a venue for every mood and ambiance.

The capital city of Valletta also offers a unique nightlife experience. Its charming streets are lined with bars and restaurants, providing the perfect setting for a romantic evening out or a casual meet-up with friends. The city’s wine bars are particularly popular, offering an extensive selection of local and international wines to savor alongside delectable nibbles.

In summer, Malta’s beach clubs and open-air venues come alive with music festivals, themed parties, and beachside gatherings. Whether it’s a sunset party by the sea or a lively beach club event, the island offers a range of outdoor venues where you can sip cocktails, dance under the stars, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Maltese culture also embraces the arts, and the island hosts a variety of cultural events and performances in the evening. From theater plays and live music concerts to art exhibitions and film festivals, you can immerse yourself in the local arts scene and experience the island’s creative spirit.

Food-lovers can indulge in the culinary delights of Malta’s evening street food markets. These bustling markets offer a wide range of local dishes and international flavors, allowing visitors to savor the diverse tastes of Malta’s street food scene in a vibrant and lively atmosphere.

Malta’s nightlife scene is not just limited to the traditional entertainment venues. The island is also home to several casinos, where you can try your luck at the slot machines or try your hand at poker and blackjack in a glamorous setting.

Whether you’re looking for a night of dancing and partying, a relaxed evening in a charming wine bar, or a cultural event to enrich your experience, Malta’s nightlife caters to all preferences. Live music, vibrant venues, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere make for unforgettable nights on this captivating Mediterranean island.

Malta, with its breathtaking beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture, is a destination that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. From the ancient temples of Mnajdra to the grand architecture of Valletta, the island offers a seamless blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you’re exploring the diverse geographical features, indulging in traditional Maltese cuisine, or immersing yourself in the festivities and nightlife, Malta promises a truly unforgettable experience.

The small size of the archipelago allows for easy exploration, making it possible to see a variety of attractions and experience different activities in a relatively short amount of time. The warmth and friendliness of the Maltese people, coupled with their pride in their cultural heritage, create an inviting and welcoming atmosphere for visitors.

As you explore Malta’s stunning beaches and hidden corners, you’ll discover a sense of tranquility and beauty that will captivate your soul. You’ll witness the layers of history embedded in every stone and experience a sense of wonder as you dive into the turquoise waters, explore ancient temples, or dance the night away in the lively venues.

Malta is a destination that offers something for everyone – history enthusiasts, nature lovers, adventure-seekers, and those simply looking to relax and unwind. Its diverse attractions, cultural diversity, and array of outdoor activities make it a versatile and appealing place to visit.

So, pack your bags, embark on an adventure, and let Malta’s beauty and charm envelop you. Explore the ancient wonders, marvel at the natural landscapes, tantalize your taste buds with traditional cuisine, and engage in the vibrant festivities. Whether you’re drawn to its history, its beaches, or its vibrant culture, Malta is sure to leave an indelible mark on your heart and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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What to see

Caravaggio's masterpiece.

The Beheading of St. John the Baptist is considered by many as Caravaggio’s masterpiece.

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Somebody once said that an island can only be called such when viewed from the sea. A cruise will show you Malta from a different angle.

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Welcome to VisitMalta dot com.

In this website you will find everything you need to know about the Maltese Islands . What to see, what to do, where to go, and many other things that make Malta, Gozo and Comino the ideal holiday destination.