malta main tourist attractions

17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Malta

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated May 11, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

In the Mediterranean Sea south of Sicily, the Maltese Islands (Malta, Gozo, and Comino) have a fascinating heritage. Being close to Tunisia, there is a distinct North African influence. The Maltese language is derived from Arabic mixed with Italian.

The country is also fiercely proud of the legendary Knights of Malta, who fought off the Turks and launched the Crusades.

Under the scorching sunshine, Malta's palm-tree-fringed landscape is dotted with beautiful places to visit, including picturesque hilltop towns, peaceful seaports, and colorful fishing villages.

Packed with cultural attractions, the capital city of Valletta is an ideal base to explore the Island of Malta. As a traveler, you will appreciate Valletta's array of hotels, restaurants, historical sites, and cultural events.

Across the harbor, Sliema has less culture but more entertainment options and caters to 20-something travelers and students on school breaks. The Island of Gozo is the best choice for relaxing beach vacations.

Malta's weather is perfect in spring and autumn. During the hot summer months, villages come to life with religious festivals and outdoor concerts.

Plan your visit to these enchanting islands with our list of the top things to do and tourist attractions in Malta.

1. Valletta: Malta's Elegant Capital

2. the idyllic island of gozo, 3. the medieval hilltop town of mdina, island of malta, 4. historical attractions in rabat, island of malta, 5. ħal saflieni hypogeum, island of malta: a neolithic cult site, 6. prehistoric tarxien temples, island of malta, 7. blue lagoon, island of comino: nature's perfect swimming pool, 8. the blue grotto, island of malta, 9. breathtaking views at dingli cliffs, island of malta, 10. golden bay beach, island of malta, 11. ghajn tuffieha bay and gnejna bay beaches, island of malta, 12. the seaside charm of mellieha, island of malta, 13. ħaġar qim temples, island of malta: a prehistoric megalithic site, 14. mnajdra temples of the maltese bronze age, island of malta, 15. siggiewi, island of malta: a traditional maltese village, 16. the country village of zebbug, island of malta, 17. family fun times at popeye village, island of malta, map of tourist attractions in malta.

Valletta is the elegant capital of the Republic of Malta. The entire city is testimony to the grandeur of the Knights of Malta, the European noblemen who were granted the Maltese Islands by the King of Spain in 1530.

The Knights created a capital worthy of their aristocratic stature, on par with other great European capitals. Valletta's regular grid plan and orderly public squares reveal the Knights' logical 16th-century urban planning.

You can easily navigate this small city that is bounded by two harbors: the Grand Harbor and Marsamxett Harbor. It takes less than an hour to walk across the entire city.

The heart of the city is St. John's Co-Cathedral , a 16th-century church built by the different Orders of the Knights, hailing from various countries such as France, Spain, and Italy. The moment you step into this magnificent sanctuary, you are awestruck by the lavish interior with its opulent gilded decor.

Nearby is the immense Grandmaster's Palace , once the residence of the Knights of Malta. This palace boasts splendid paintings, as well as an armory, that tell the story of the Knights' military victories.

If you appreciate culture and historic monuments, Valletta is one of the best places to visit on the Maltese Islands. Malta's most modernized city, Valletta is packed with tourist attractions and is a convenient base for exploring the Island of Malta without a car. The island has an efficient bus system with Valletta as its hub.

The Island of Gozo is the most idyllic destination of the Maltese Islands. With its quiet towns and pristine beaches , this little island is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing vacation for several days or even a weeklong stay.

Although Gozo is less developed than Malta, the island has plenty of cultural attractions: a fortified medieval city, Victoria ; a bustling seaside resort, Marsalforn ; and the most important archaeological site of the Maltese Islands, Ġgantija Temples , dating back to around 3500 BCE.

The countryside of Gozo offers a delightful retreat from the modern world. A patchwork of small farms covers the island's valleys and rolling hills. Traditional villages perch above the landscape, while the hillsides lead down to protected beaches and quaint old fishing ports. Even the tiniest towns have grandiose Baroque churches.

A favorite beach is at Ramla Bay with a wide, sandy shore and gentle waters that are safe for swimming. This well-equipped beach welcomes visitors with excellent facilities: lounge chair and umbrella rentals, showers, restrooms, changing areas, and snack bars.

The Island of Gozo is a short ferry ride from Cirkewwa on the Island of Malta.

Step back in time and experience the allure of a walled medieval town. You must pass through the dramatic Main Gate to enter Mdina. Within the city's immense, ancient ramparts is a delightful world of car-free streets and beautiful, old sandstone buildings.

The entire town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , brimming with historic monuments and cultural attractions such as its glorious Baroque cathedral, the 17th-century Carmelite Priory, and several old aristocratic palaces.

The Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum (Villegaignon Street) offers the chance to see an authentic medieval palace, decorated in the original style. The Palazzo Falson also displays exquisite art, antiques, and Oriental carpets, as well as a collection of ancient coins.

The Palazzo Vilhena (Saint Publius Square) is a stately 18th-century Magisterial Palace that now houses Malta's National Museum of Natural History .

Just outside the Mdina ramparts is the neighboring town of Rabat. You can see both cities in the same day; Mdina and Rabat are sometimes considered to be one unified urban area.

In Maltese, the word "Rabat" means "suburb." Rabat is less touristy and more modern than Mdina, but there are noteworthy historical attractions.

One of the hidden gems is the Casa Bernard , a grand 16th-century house that is still a private residence but is open to the public for guided tours. The house is decorated with antique furniture, masterpieces of painting, and noteworthy objets d'art.

The Domvs Romana provides a glimpse of everyday life during the ancient Roman era, with exhibits about fashion, entertainment, and cuisine. The museum stands on the ruins of a Roman aristocratic townhouse and contains some of the finest 1st-century BCE Roman mosaics in the world.

The 17th-century Parish Church of St. Paul's stands above St. Paul's Grotto , where it is said that Saint Paul found refuge during his stay in Malta. Next to the church, the Wignacourt Museum displays ancient Roman artifacts and paintings by Mattia Preti as well as other European artists.

Dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries, St. Dominic's Convent is an important pilgrimage destination because it contains a marble statue of the Virgin Mary that is considered miraculous. The convent's courtyard garden was used in the filming of Game of Thrones .

The massive dimensions and sheer mystery of Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum takes your breath away. This Neolithic-era underground cemetery is designated on the UNESCO World Heritage List because of its cultural value.

Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum has provided archaeologists and scholars with intriguing clues about the Neolithic mindset and culture. The complex stands as a rare testimony to a vanished civilization.

Visiting this site offers a beguiling experience. On a guided tour, you enter the site at ground level. Then, you will walk through underground passages and stairways to descend down into three levels of superimposed chambers. The lowest two levels are man-made caves, entirely carved out of limestone rock.

Natural light reaches the middle level of the complex, but not the lowest level. Archaeologists speculate that Neolithic-era people used some form of artificial illumination such as torches.

The lowest level is the chamber known as the " Holy of Holies ," which is over 10 meters below the entrance to the first level at the top. Using your imagination, you might try to envision how this chamber was used by prehistoric man to perform burial rituals and ceremonies.

The site is remarkable for how old it is (4000 BCE to 1500 BCE) and for the excellent state of preservation, complete with beautiful sculpted details and paintings in red ochre. It is also fascinating the way structural elements of Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum mirror the architecture of contemporaneous (prehistoric-era) megalithic sites such as the Tarxien Temples.

Some of the artifacts found in Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum are now displayed at the National Museum of Archeology in Valletta, including clay sculptures; stone figures of birds; and The Sleeping Lady , a rare prehistoric object that depicts a woman lying on a couch.

Tip for Tourists : Book ahead! The site is open to the public for 50-minute guided tours. It is recommended to reserve your Hypogeum tickets online in advance for a specific day and time. For reasons of conservation, Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum has a limit of 10 visitors every hour.

Address: Burial Street, Paola, Island of Malta

The UNESCO-listed Tarxien Temples is the largest and best-preserved prehistoric cult site in Malta, consisting of four megalithic structures. Excavated in 1914, the site covers an area of 5,400 square meters and displays the artistic achievements of Malta's mysterious prehistoric culture during the " Temple Period " (Late Neolithic Period) between 3,600 BCE and 2,500 BCE.

Stone reliefs and sculptures that were found here are represented on the site by excellent reproductions; the originals are displayed in the National Museum of Archeology in Valletta.

The stone walls of the four adjoining temples are decorated with surprisingly intricate spiral patterns and animal figures. The decorative South Temple contains the largest collection of art, including reliefs that depict goats, pigs, bulls, and a ram.

You will also find the remnant of a statue depicting a fertility goddess with robust legs, small dainty feet, and a pleated skirt. (Unfortunately, the top portion of the statue was missing when it was uncovered by archaeologists.)

The East Temple is made of sturdy slab walls with recognizable oracle holes. The Central Temple features a six-apse architectural plan and has an arched roof that reveals technically advanced construction techniques.

Tip for Tourists : The Tarxien Temples archaeological site is within easy walking distance of Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum . Both sites could easily be visited on the same day.

Address: Neolithic Temples Street, Tarxien, Island of Malta

The Blue Lagoon is a mesmerizing scene of crystal-clear turquoise waters lapping over a white-sand seabed. This expansive lagoon gives the impression of being a giant swimming pool because the water is temperate, there are no waves, and the shallow end is safe enough for children.

Wonderful for swimming, splashing around, or floating on inflatable tubes, the core of the lagoon is roped off to boats. The lagoon is equivalent in length to several Olympic-size swimming pools. Good swimmers can cross to the cove on the other side.

The lagoon has a small beach with umbrellas and lounge chairs available for rent. The other option is sunbathing on the scorching-hot rocky hillside. At least, you can count on refreshment stands set up around the lagoon.

Things to do on Comino Island include nature walks, hiking, and water sports such as snorkeling and scuba diving.

Tips for Tourists : During high season, this beach is often crowded by 10:30am, so it is best to arrive early. The lagoon is less crowded after 4pm, however the returning ferries stop running around 5pm.

The ferry ride from Mgarr on the island of Gozo takes about 15 minutes to arrive at the Blue Lagoon on the Island of Comino. From the Island of Malta (departing from the port of Marfa or Cirkewwa), the ferry ride to the Blue Lagoon takes about 30 minutes.

The breathtaking coastal vistas on the approach to the Blue Grotto provide an exciting introduction to this spectacular nature site. You arrive here by taking a scenic route along a winding cliffside road high above the Mediterranean Sea.

The scenery has a serene, mesmerizing quality with brilliant blue waters sparkling in limestone caves. It explains why according to mythology, the Blue Grotto was home to the sirens (sea nymphs), who captivated sailors with their charms.

You can take a guided boat tour in one of the brightly painted Maltese fishing boats called luzzus . Boats leave frequently year-round, when the sea is calm. The 20-minute joyride speeds through the sea past six caves, including the Blue Grotto, a 30-meter-high cave with a luminous pool of cobalt-hued waters.

Tip for Tourists: The best time to visit is early in the day, ideally before 2pm, when the sunlight best illuminates the water.

The village of Wied iz-Zurrieq (just one kilometer away from the Blue Grotto) has many souvenir stores, ice-cream shops, and cafés, as well as cliffside restaurants with marvelous views. You will enjoy a meal at one of the restaurant terraces overlooking the gorgeous expanse of azure sea.

The Blue Grotto is also a popular scuba diving destination because of its bountiful marine life.

For awe-inspiring coastal scenery, take a short drive or bus ride from the Blue Grotto in Wied iz-Zurrieq to the Dingli Cliffs. The appeal (and the drawback) of this location is its remoteness.

The sheer 250-meter Dingli Cliffs plunge dramatically into the Mediterranean Sea, and the sloping hillsides are fertile land used by small farms.

The highlight of Dingli Cliffs is the viewpoint that offers stunning seaside panoramas.

Besides a short walking trail, there is nothing at Dingli Cliffs except a tiny hilltop chapel (closed to the public), which is devoted to Saint Mary Magdalene.

Tips for Tourists : Keep in mind that there are no restrooms or cafés. Sometimes you might find a pop-up souvenir and refreshment stand. Dingli Cliffs does not have a visible bus stop (ask the bus driver where to get out), and buses run infrequently, but the sensational photo-ops make it worth the trek.

Golden Bay in Northwest Malta is one of the island's prettiest beaches. This picturesque and well-maintained beach features sheltered sandy shores tucked away behind a mountainous coastline and sloping cliffs.

The beach has an extremely wide shoreline with soft golden sands. The clean, calm waters are safe for swimming. You could spend the day here sunbathing, while listening to the soothing sound of waves lapping against the shore.

Lounge chairs and beach umbrellas are available for rent, and the site has well-maintained facilities including public toilets and changing rooms. There are also cafés and restaurants with terraces overlooking the shoreline.

The beach is found next to a luxurious five-star hotel, the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands , which has three restaurants, a café, snack bar, swimming pool, and fitness center.

Unlike other beaches in Malta, Golden Bay Beach is far away from street traffic, which makes it a perfect get-away-from-it-all seaside escape. At the same time, Golden Bay Beach is easily accessible by car or bus; the bus stop is only a five-minute walk away from the beach.

If you are exploring the area by car, it's worth driving two kilometers from Golden Bay to the unspoiled beach at Ghajn Tuffieha Bay. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and sloping hillsides. You get here by climbing down 200 steps.

Ghajn Tuffieha Bay Beach feels secluded in nature, except for the umbrellas and lounge chairs for rent, public restrooms, and a snack bar. Considered one of Malta's top beaches, Ghajn Tuffieha is favored by locals who appreciate the quiet, peaceful environment. The waters are safe for swimming except when the red flag is up (indicating strong currents).

Continuing seven more kilometers from Ghajn Tuffieha Bay is Gnejna Bay , a small protected bay surrounded by steep limestone cliffs. You must hike down a flight of steep steps to reach the gorgeous orange-sand beach, which is popular with swimmers and snorkelers. Water ski and canoe rentals are also available, as well as public restrooms and food stands.

Between Ghajn Tuffieha Bay and Gnejna Bay is the rural village of Mgarr in a bucolic landscape of vine-covered hills and small farms. Outdoorsy types will enjoy the scenic hiking trails from Mgarr into the countryside and along the coast to Gnejna Bay.

Nearby are ruins of Roman baths and ancient cart ruts (grooves in the limestone plateau), which intrigue scholars and visitors alike.

Mellieha is a family-friendly seaside destination in the scenic countryside of Northwest Malta. The beach is next to a busy road, which detracts from the natural beauty. However, the Mellieha Beach has the largest stretch of sandy shore on the Maltese Islands with a one-and-a-half kilometer shoreline of fine white sand.

Mellieha Bay has very gentle shelving, which makes it shallow enough to stand even quite far away from the shore. The calm waters with no undercurrents are safe for children to wade or swim.

The picturesque village of Mellieha stands on a craggy hilltop overlooking the pastoral landscape of rocky outcrops, vine-covered hills, and small farms.

At the highest point in the village, the lovely 19th-century Baroque Parish Church of Our Lady of Victory (Parish Square) contains the Shipwreck of Saint Paul painting by renowned artist Giuseppe Cali and a statue of the Virgin Mary.

The church's Virgin Mary statue is venerated during the annual Mellieha Village Festa . This nine-day festival begins on August 30th and features snack kiosks, traditional Maltese desserts, marching bands and fireworks.

Opposite the steps that lead down from the Parish Square is a mystical cave-shrine dedicated to the Madonna. An underground spring running through the cave is said to have miraculous healing powers.

Mellieha also has a protected habitat for migrating birds in the Ghadira Nature Reserve .

The UNESCO-listed Ħaġar Qim Temples appeal to travelers who are fascinated by Malta's megalithic sites. Perched on a rocky hilltop plateau, this archaeological park on Malta's rugged southern coast overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and the Island of Filfla in the distance.

Dating between 3600 BCE to 3200 BCE, the ancient site was buried under mounds of earth until its discovery in 1839. The facade, made up of two upright stones supporting one stone lintel, has a striking entrance.

The builders of these remarkable prehistoric temples did not use a symmetrical layout of the three chambers. Instead, the chambers and apses connect with one another but not in a uniform plan. Each temple was built as an individual place of worship.

The largest megalith of this 5,000-year-old site is more than seven meters long and weighs approximately 20 tons. The little boulders, the size of bowling balls, strewn about the site were used like castors to move the massive megaliths into place.

Artifacts found on the site, including the Fat deities, believed to be symbols of fertility, and the nude Venus of Malta , are on display at the National Museum of Archeology in Valletta.

Address: Triq Hagar Qim, Qrendi QRD 2501

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site , the Mnajdra Temples are found 500 meters away from the Ħaġar Qim Temples in an isolated stretch with stunning sea views. This archaeological complex includes three different structures.

The oldest structure, the South Temple, dates to around 3600 to 3200 BCE. The other two temples were built between 3150 BCE and 2500 BCE. These three structures represent a significant stage in prehistoric human development known as the Ġg antija Phase (circa 3000 BCE to 2200 BCE), which was an important period of the Maltese Bronze Age.

The most intriguing feature of Mnajdra Temples is the doorway of the South Temple. The doorway is flanked by two immense blocks with small holes that mark the position of the rising sun on the Equinoxes (first day of spring and autumn) and the Solstices (the first day of summer and winter).

Address: Triq Hagar Qim, Qrendi QRD 2502

This traditional Maltese village is in southwestern Malta between Rabat and Marsaxlokk in the fertile Girgenti Valley , which begins near the Dingli Cliffs .

At the center of the village, the Parish Church of Saint Nicholas features an impressive Baroque facade created by Lorenzo Gafà in 1693. The church is usually closed except during the annual festival.

The Siggiewi Festa (Feast Days), honoring Saint Nicholas, is held at the end of June. The church is illuminated with multicolored lights, and its relics are paraded around the town. The four-day festival includes fireworks, brass band music, and authentic Maltese treats (such as pastry stuffed with dates and nougat made with almonds or peanuts).

From May through October, Siggiewi hosts the Maltese Summer Folklore Nights at the Limestone Heritage Park and Gardens. This lively event showcases Maltese culture with folkloric dance and music performances, as well as a buffet featuring delicious Maltese dishes. The Limestone Heritage Park and Gardens is also a popular venue for outdoor weddings.

This country village has a history dating back to 1436. The Grand Master de Rohan elevated Zebbug to a city, renaming it Citta Rohan, and built the triumphal arch at the entrance of the town.

The main square is graced by the twin-towered Baroque Parish Church of Saint Philip with an ornately decorated interior. The initial design was created by Cassars, the architect of Saint-John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta.

Zebbug celebrates its annual religious festival, the Festa of Saint Philip , at the Parish Church in June. The celebrations include marching band processions, fireworks, and colorful decorations. A highlight of the festival is when the silver statue of Saint Philip is paraded through the village.

For families with young kids, the Popeye Village in Mellieha offers an entertaining place to spend the day. This charming tourist attraction was originally a film set for the 1980s movie Popeye starring Robin Williams and has become one of the top tourist attractions of Malta.

The film set is a quaint seaside village made of 20 wooden structures. You are greeted by Popeye the sailor and then can take a tour of the village to find the post office, bakery, firehouse, and other buildings. Popeye Village also has a beach, sunbathing decks, and a souvenir shop.

The village celebrates holidays, such as Carnival, Easter, and Halloween, with festive decorations and amusing activities.

Address: Popeye Village, Anchor Bay, Triq Tal-Prajjet, Mellieha, Malta

More on Malta

20 Wonderful Things to Do in Malta: Attractions + Map [2022]

Seductive beaches, turquoise water, azure sky, warm weather . Tucked away in the southern Mediterranean Sea , Malta is your perfect summer escape. Plenty of alluring beaches across Malta and its sister islands – Gozo and Comino, make it one of the best beach holiday destinations in Europe. Maltese coast is also famous for stunning underwater caves, shipwrecks and fascinating Marine life. This island country is a paradise for anyone fond of scuba diving and snorkelling.

Malta is steeped in thousands of years of history and home to many prehistoric UNESCO World Heritage sites . Some of them are believed to be older than the Great Pyramids of Egypt. There is so much history to uncover in the Capital city of Valletta, Three Cities, Mdina and Rabat.

From village festivals to delicious Ftira, Salt pans to wineries, Malta has plenty to offer. In this guide, we will cover all the best things to do in Malta, our favourites and tips, potential day trips, as well as recommendation for where to stay, eat, and how to get around – pretty much everything you will need to know to plan your trip to Malta.

🌍Where is Malta

Malta is an island country in the Mediterranean Sea in Europe. This beautiful country lies about 50 miles south of Sicily, an island in southern Italy and about 175 miles east of Libya – a country in the north of Africa.

Malta is formed of three main islands – Malta (not to be confused with the name of this country), Gozo and Comino . The capital city is Valletta.

It is the world’s tenth smallest country . However, this country has always been an important naval base in the Mediterranean due to its strategic location. The Romans, Greeks, Arabs, French and the British have ruled this country in past centuries. During World War II, Malta played a crucial role for the Allied forces and was badly affected when the war ended. This island country became a part of the European Union in 2004.

☀️Best Time to Visit Malta

Malta has a Mediterranean climate with hot and sunny summers, and the winter is not too cold, but sometimes rainy. Malta is truly a year-round travel destination and has an average of 300 sunny days each year . You can enjoy swimming at the beaches from May to October.

🌞 Peak Season :   The summer months – June to September, is the high season in Malta. The days are long, hot and dry , with average highs hovering between 30 – 32 degrees. The hot sirocco winds from Africa sometimes make the temperature uncomfortably hot, though the sea breeze cools it down. July is the warmest month on this island . Bear in mind Malta gets super crowded in summer.

🍂 Shoulder Season : Spring (March to May) and autumn (October – November) are the shoulder seasons in this country. Late Spring and Early autumn are probably the best time to visit Malta . The weather stays pleasantly warm and dry, and days are long enough. Also, the water is comfortably warm enough for swimming, snorkelling and diving. Tourist attractions are much less crowded, and hotels are relatively cheap.

🏔️ Low Season : December to February are the low seasons in Malta. Winter here is mild, pleasant and relatively warm from the rest of the European countries, though it rains occasionally. The average temperature remains between 9 – 15 degrees. You can expect about 5 – 6 hours of daylight.

📆How Many Days to Spend in Malta

We would suggest spending at least 3-4 days in Malta. It will give you a nice amount of time to visit the popular tourist attractions, which include stunning beaches, historic cities and archaeological sites.

It is a small island country – On the mainland, you can probably drive from one corner to another in just about an hour.  

But if you want to explore the nooks and crannies of this island like a local, you can easily spend a couple of weeks . You won’t get bored. So, it depends on your travel style and how much you want to see and explore.

🇲🇹Best Things to Do in Malta🇲🇹

1. bask in the traditional charm of malta’s capital city, valletta.

No visit to Malta is complete without visiting the capital city , Valletta. It is a must-visit tourist attraction in Malta and one of the smallest capital cities in Europe . Founded in the 16th century, Valletta is surrounded by two natural harbours in the Mediterranean Sea.  

Explore the bustling squares, charming streets, imposing churches and historic Baroque style buildings with colourful traditional Maltese balconies. No wonder this fortress city was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1980.  

🏰Highlights of Valletta: One of the main tourist attractions in Valletta is the magnificent Saint John’s Co-Cathedral (Entrance fee €15 Adult).   Built for the Knights of St John, this 16th-century cathedral’s interior is very ornate and beautifully decorated. It also houses priceless paintings by Italian painter Caravaggio.  

Just a few minutes walk from the cathedral stands the National Museum of Archaeology . It contains an impressive collection of prehistoric artefacts of Malta (Entrance fee €5 Adult). Some of this museum’s famous displays are – the ‘Venus of Malta’ from Hagar Qim Temples and the ‘Sleeping Lady’ from Hal Saflieni Hypogeum.

For one of the most spectacular views of Malta, visit the beautiful Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens . From the high terrace, watch the gunfire ceremony – it happens twice a day at 12 pm and 4 pm.

⚡Other things to do: Step inside the grand Casa Rocca Piccola (Entrance fee €9 Adult) to experience the life of a Maltese aristocrat in the 16th century.

With a few minutes walk from the palace, you will find the National War Museum (Entrance €10 Adult) inside the historic Fort St Elmo . Here you will see the war artefacts and learn about Maltese military history. Also, from the fort, you will get an excellent panoramic view of the sea.  

Visit the Grandmaster’s Palace (Entrance fee: adult €8) – a grand historic attraction of Valletta. Admire its lavish state rooms, beautiful tapestry chambers and armour collection.

After that, take a stroll through the vibrant Valletta Waterfront . You will find many restaurants and bar along the historic promenade.

💎Some Hidden gems of Valletta : Watch a performance or tour the beautiful interior of the Manoel Theatre , one of the oldest working theatres in Europe. Entrance fee: €5 per person.

Take a look inside the Is-Suq tal-Belt- Valletta Food Market . From fresh vegetables to street foods, local favourites to international cuisines – there’s something for everyone in this market.

Used as a British war headquarter of Malta during the Second World War, Lascaris War Rooms later transformed into a museum. Entrance fee: Adult €12, Children €5.

🚂Where to go next: Take a scenic boat ride to visit the nearby Three Cities. Spend half a day wandering around the peaceful streets of Birgu. Next, take a day trip to Rabat and Mdina. Also, the incredibly beautiful Blue lagoon on the island of Comino is a must-visit.

🍔Best places to eat in Valletta: Enjoy breakfast or a quick lunch at the historic Caffe Cordina near the st. John’s Co-Cathedral. Visit Nenu the Artisan Baker , one of the best places in Valletta to taste some delicious traditional Maltese cuisine. For some fresh Mediterranean dishes, pop into Palazzo Preca Restaurant. Dine-in Pastaus or Trattoria Romana Zero Sei for some of the best Italian foods in the city.

🚗How to reach: Malta International Airport is just 5 miles away from Valletta. Catch the bus service X4 from the airport to get to Valletta. The bus is frequent, and it costs only €2 per person.  

Valletta is the main public transportation hub of the island and is well connected to other Maltese cities and towns by bus.

2. Enjoy the Tropical Paradise, Blue Lagoon at Comino

Comino is a small Maltese island located between Malta and Gozo. Famous for rugged coastline, translucent turquoise water, Blue Lagoon and amazing sea caves , no visit to Malta would be complete without coming to Comino. This small island is about 16 miles long and 9 miles wide and has very few permanent residents. There is only one hotel on this island at San Niklaw Bay if you fancy having a romantic peaceful gateway. Comino is easily accessible by public transport from Malta and Gozo. Also, there are many private boat tour operators that will take you to Comino.

⛱️Blue Lagoon: Located on the west coast of Comino, Blue Lagoon is a tropical dream for sunbathers and swimmers . The water is calm and crystal clear – a beach lover’s paradise in the middle of the Mediterranean to soak up the sun and relax. There are a couple of food trucks selling light bites, ice cream, beer, cocktails (in pineapple) near the Blue Lagoon. You will find a water party vibe here, especially in summer.

💡Best Tips : Blue Lagoon gets super crowded in summer. So, if would like to have a nice little towel spot on the beach, come early. Though there are light bites and drinks available on this island, we would recommend carrying some food with you if are spending a whole day in Comino.

🏖️Other beaches in Comino: Not too far from the Blue Lagoon, there is another nice swimming spot called the Crystal Lagoon . If you are into cliff jumping, this place is the perfect spot for you but be sure about the depth of the water. Crystal Lagoon is great for snorkelling as well, the water being clear and not too deep. So, don’t forget to bring your snorkelling gear. If you want to avoid the crowd in Blue Lagoon, head towards San Niklaw Bay and Santa Maria Bay – they are far quieter than Blue Lagoon.

🌳Hiking in Comino: Once you get out of the water, give some time to explore this beautiful island. There is a hiking loop starting from the Blue Lagoon and it takes about 2.5 – 3 hours to complete . On your way, you would come across Saint Mary’s Tower , a former watchtower built in the 1600s. From there, you would get to admire the seductive stretch of the jagged coast against the turquoise Mediterranean water.

🚌How to Reach by public transport: From Valletta Bus Terminus, catch bus service 41 or 42 to   Ċirkewwa. It would take about 1 hour 15 minutes. If you are staying in Sliema, catch bus service 222 to reach Ċirkewwa ferry terminal. From there, you would find ferry services running regularly to Comino. The journey time is about 30 minutes. 

Ferry Ticket Price : Round trip, adult 13 €, child 7 €.

3. Uncover Mdina's Unique Past

A day trip to the ancient walled city of Mdina is a must for anyone visiting Malta. This fortified city was once the capital of this country . Sitting proudly atop a hill, Mdina is steep in so much history. This city is filled with many medieval buildings, narrow maze-like streets, imposing churches and beautiful squares. Also, from here, you will get a magnificent view out to Malta and the Mediterranean Sea. Other than the residents, no outside car is permitted inside the city walls.  

Also, wander around Mdina in the evening when all the visitors are gone – you would realise why it’s known as “ the silent city ”.

🌸Things to do in Mdina :   One of the first things you will notice while heading toward Mdina is its magnificent city walls . These ancient walls have withstood many attacks and sieges and were rebuilt multiple times throughout history.

When entering the city, admire the beautiful baroque architecture of the Mdina Gate . It was featured in the popular TV series Game of Thrones as one of the gates of the fictional Kings Landing.  

The best way to explore Mdina is by getting lost in its winding streets. They are too photogenic and would take you back in time.

Located at the heart of Mdina, you will find the Mdina Cathedral (Entrance fees €10 adult) – also known as St Paul’s Cathedral. Visit the museum as well adjacent to the cathedral.  

💡Other attractions : Don’t miss the lovely panoramic view from the Bastion Square viewpoint . There are several museums around Mdina – Palazzo Falson, The National Museum of Natural History and Tales of the Silent City.

🍲Places to eat nearby : Near bastion square, you will find Fontanella Tea Garden . Grab a seat at their upper terrace to enjoy the stunning view over Malta. They serve a great selection of tasty cakes. Also, Coogi’s Restaurant & Tea Garden is a good choice for lunch if fancy having some delicious Italian food.

🌺Where to next :   After exploring Mdina, visit the nearby town of Rabat . Also, not very far from Mdina is the Buskett Garden – a woodland area with many walking trails. Dingli Cliffs – the highest point of the island and the Blue Grotto, an impressive natural landmark of Malta are also nearby attractions.

🚌How to reach : Frequent local bus services depart from Valletta Bus Station to Mdina – bus 50, 51, 53. It takes around 25 minutes to get to Mdina.

🚗By car : The drive to Mdina will take around 15-20 minutes from Valletta.

4. Admire the Natural Landmark of Malta, Blue Grotto

The Blue Grotto is one of Malta’s most iconic natural landmarks and a must-visit tourist attraction on this island. Located at the rugged southern coast of Malta, the Blue Grotto is a network of seven magnificent sea caves, accessible only by a boat ride.

⛵Boat Trip: Hop on the small Maltese fishing boat to see the beautiful sea caves up and close. The boat runs all year round, depending on the weather conditions. You have to pay at the ticket counter near the pier. There is no fixed schedule – boats leave when they are full. The trip takes around 25 minutes.  

During the boat trip, you will see the picturesque sea caves and a gigantic natural arch . Your skipper will show you the Honeymoon Cave, Cat’s Cave, Reflection Cave and will tell you the story behind their names. The clarity and the stunning colour of the sea are mind-blowing.

Although the sea was a bit rough on the day of our visit, we enjoyed the boat ride very much from start to finish.

Boat operating hour : Summer 9 am – 5 pm. Winter 9 am – 3.30 pm.

Price: Adult €8, child €4.

💡Top Tips : The best times to visit the caves are from early in the morning to around one o’clock in the afternoon. You will see the most magical shades of different colours reflecting the underwater flora. Also, you will beat the crowd, as it gets super busy in summer.

⛱️Other Things to do: Other than the boat trip, this area is also famous for swimming, diving   and snorkelling . You can take a dip into the crystal clear water beside the boat area. Divers can enjoy exploring the Um El Faroud wreck underwater.

⛰️Best Viewpoint : For the most spectacular view of the Blue Grotto and the surrounding landscape, visit the viewpoint located next to the Panorama bus stop. There is also a car park beside the viewpoint. Stop there before going to the village for the boat ride.

Admire the massive natural arch over the Grotto and the pristine water from here. It is a superb spot to watch the sunset as well.

🍔Where to eat : There are quite a few restaurants in the Wied iz-Zurrieq village. Enjoy a delicious lunch with breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline. Head into Il Corsaro, La Cucina di Bettina by Bologna, Alka, Coast @ Cassarini Restaurant to sample some delicious Maltese food. You can also visit Jack’s Eat House- 5 minutes drive from the Blue Grotto.

🌳Nearby attractions : Just a few minutes drive from the Blue Grotto is the prehistoric Hagar Qim Temples.

🚌How to reach : To reach the Blue Grotto from Valletta, board bus 74 from the Valletta Bus Terminus. It takes around 30 minutes to reach the ‘Panorama’ bus stop. From Panorama, walk 10 minutes downhill to the village of Blue Grotto. If you are coming from Malta Airport or Rabat, then catch the hourly 201 bus to the ‘Grotto’ bus stop. 201 is the only bus that takes you directly to the village.

🚗By Car – Approximate time and distance from different parts of Malta- From Malta Airport 15 min/ 7 km

From Valletta 25 min/ 15 km

From Mdina 20 min/ 10.7 km

5. Enjoy Romantic Strolls in the Three Cities

The Three Cities is a must-see place on a day trip from Valletta . It was the first home to the Knights of St. John , who played a crucial role in the history of Malta. The Three Cities are formed of- Birgu (Vittoriosa), Senglea and Cospicua. Among them, Birgu is the oldest and the most popular one . Some of the churches and forts of Three Cities are even older than Valletta’s.

⛵Boat ride : The most scenic and enjoyable way to reach the Three Cities is by the gondola-style traditional Maltese boat from Valletta.

Use the elevator at Upper Barrakka Gardens to reach the Valletta Waterfront. You can find the gondolas leaving from here. It costs only €2 per person.  

⚡Highlights: The best way to get around the Three Cities is by foot. Explore its many winding backstreets, historic forts, beautiful churches and museums.

Start your trip with a visit to St Angelo Fort (Entrance fee: adult €10) in Birgu. It’s one of the oldest fortifications of Malta. Here you will learn about the fascinating military history of the fort. Also, you will get an excellent view out to Valletta and the Grand Harbour from here.  

Next, visit the Malta Maritime Museum (Entrance fee: adult €5), a great place to learn about the maritime achievements of Malta. It houses an astounding collection of over twenty thousand different artefacts.

You will find the historic Inquisitor’s Palace (Entrance fees: adult €6) – just a few minutes walk from the museum. It once served as the home of the inquisitors, as well as a courthouse and prison. The palace also houses the National Museum of Ethnography.

🌳Other things to do :

• Take a look inside the Collegiate Church of Saint Lawrence in Birgu.
• Visit the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Cospicua
• Admire the Valletta skyline and harbour from the Gardjola Gardens in Senglea.  

🍔Places to eat Nearby: Eat some fresh seafood at Enchanté Restaurant at Senglea, near the marina. For a quick lunch or perhaps some coffee, visit Cafe Riche in Birgu. Grab a seat into their beautifully decorated courtyard.

⛵How to reach: You can easily reach the Three Cities by bus or ferry from Valletta. Bus services 1, 2, 3, 4 or 213- takes around 25 minutes from Valletta to reach the Three Cities. Alternatively, you can catch a public ferry service from the Valletta Waterfront. Ferry services run frequently and cost only €2.80 per person return. Otherwise, catch a traditional boat to reach here.

6. Uncover Thousands of Years of History at the Hagar Qim Temples

Perched on a dramatic clifftop at the southern coast of Malta overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the Hagar Qim temples are one of the best-preserved prehistoric temple complexes in the country. Believed to be 1000 years older than the Great Pyramids of Egypt , these temples were built between 3600 BC and 3200 BC.

In 1990, the Hagar Qim Temples got added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites . These architectural marvels are a must-visit place for all history lovers visiting Malta.

🌺About the temples :   Archaeologists believed that these temples were used as a place of worship and evidence suggests that it might be linked to fertility. Very little is known about why, how or who built these Megalithic temples over 5000 years ago.  

You will find a calendar stone here with drilled holes – believed to be aligned with the moon’s phases. Therefore the site was probably used as a prehistoric astronomical observation centre .

🌳What to see :   At the visitor centre, you will find a small museum showing some of the excavated artefacts. Watch the 4D show before visiting the temples.  

Hagar Qim is the first temple you will visit. The Mnajdra temple is a few minutes downhill walk from Hagar Qim. The temples are divided into a series of semi-circular chambers connected by a passage.  

The statues,   ‘Venus de Malta’ and ‘fat lady’ were found there. They are currently on display at the National Museum of Archaeology, Valletta.  

In spring or autumnal equinoxes , the sunlight passes through the main doorway of the Mnajdra Temple due to its astronomical alignment.

🌼Other things to do :   After visiting the temples, follow the waymarked nature trails to the 17th-century watchtower. From there you will get an excellent view of the sea and the small islet of Fifla. Don’t miss to visit the nearby Blue Grotto . You can easily combine them both on a day trip.

💡Tip : If you are not comfortable walking from Hagar Qim to Mnajdra temple, you can hire a golf cart to take you here at an extra cost.

🌻Other prehistoric sites in Malta :   There are several ancient prehistoric sites in Malta spread throughout the island. Add some of them to your Malta itinerary. Here are some of the other prehistoric sites:

• Ggantija Temples – Located on the island of Gozo, Ggantija Temples are the oldest of the Megalithic temples in Malta. It is even older than Stonehenge and the Pyramids .
• Hal Saflieni Hypogeum – An ancient underground burial site located in Paola. Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site .
• Tarxien Temples
• Ghar Dalam Cave

⏰Opening Hours : Winter Months, October – March Mon-Sun 9 am- 5 pm.

Summer Months, April – September Mon-Sun 9 am – 6 pm.

💰Entrance Fees : Adults €10, Children €5.50

🚌How to reach : It is easy to get to Hagar Qim Temples by public transport. From Valletta, catch the direct bus 74. The Visitor Centre is a few minutes walk from the Hagar bus stop.  

If you are coming from Malta Airport, board the 201 bus. It takes only 18 minutes to reach Hagar Qim.

🚗Car – The drive from Valletta takes around 25 minutes.

7. Lose Yourself in Rabat

Just a few minutes walk from Mdina lies another must-see place in Malta – the town of Rabat . It offers a glimpse of Maltese suburban life, away from the hustle-bustle of Mdina. You will find historic churches, catacombs and museums here.  

Take a ramble around the streets of Rabat. Some of the scenes from Steven Spielberg’s movie, Munich, were filmed here.

🌻Things to do in Rabat : One of the main attractions of Rabat is the St Paul’s Catacombs (Entrance fees €6 adult) – an ancient underground burial site used by the Romans. The complex has over 30 hypogea, meaning an underground tomb. The small museum adjacent to the catacombs displays many artefacts.

To know more about Roman history in Malta, visit the Domus Romana Museum (Entrance fees €6 adult) – one of the oldest museums in Malta. Located between Rabat and Mdina, it used to be a townhouse for Roman aristocrats. Other than the ruined house, you will see the original mosaics and statues at the museum.

Next, visit the St. Paul’s Church and Grotto (Entrance fees €5 adult), an important religious site of Malta. It is believed that St Paul stayed here in 60 AD after a shipwreck brought him to Malta. Also, visit the air-raid shelters used during the Second World War and Wignacourt Museum inside the complex.

🌹Other nearby attractions :   Just outside the city of Mdina, you will get to see Howard Gardens. The park is a great spot for a peaceful stroll and provides a nice view of the city walls. Also, you can visit Buskett Gardens , located on the outskirts of Rabat. It is one of the largest green spaces in Malta . The Dingli cliffs are not too far from the garden.

🍔Places to eat in Rabat : Pop into the famous Crystal Palace near the Domus Romana in Rabat, and try out their delicious pastizzi – a traditional Maltese street food. This flaky pastry comes with ricotta, peas, chicken and anchovies fillings.

🚌How to reach : Bus 50, 51, 53 from Valletta to Saqqajja Bus Station in Rabat.

8. Discover the Salt Pans of Xwejni

Close to the small seaside town of Marsalforn on the northern coast of Gozo, you will find these beautiful rock-cut Salt Pans. Stretched across around three kilometres along the Xwejni Bay, these salt pans are believed to be over 350 years old. The mirror-like reflection on the salt pans and the nearby dramatic limestone cliffs make it one of the most photogenic places in Malta. There are approximately 300 salt pans in this area, harvested by three local families of salt farmers. You can buy this salt from the Gozo marketplace – a great choice for souvenirs to take back home from your trip to Malta.

🌴A bit of History : The tradition of salt harvesting in Gozo is quite ancient and changed very little over the past centuries. It started with the Phoenicians and later thrived during Roman times.

Nowadays, the harvesting season starts in April and continues throughout the summer. If you are visiting during this period, you will see the local salt-pan owners scraping the salts from the boxes. The process of evaporating seawater to create natural sea salt is largely dependent on the sunny hot weather and wind.

🚌How to reach : The direct bus 310 runs every 45- minutes from Victoria to Xwejni. The journey time is about 17 minutes. You have to walk along the coast for around 9-10 minutes to get to the Salt Pans.  

🚗By car – It is just about 11 minutes drive from Victoria.

9. Admire the Picturesque Views from Dingli Cliffs

For the most stunning view over the Mediterranean sea, visit the Dingli Cliffs – the highest point of Malta. The 250m high cliffs stretch more than 2 km from Bahrija to the Mungar area. It is one of the best places in Malta to watch the sunset. Rabat and Mdina are not too far from here. So, you can easily combine them all on a day trip.

⛰️Best Viewpoints : Nestled over the Dingli cliffs, you will find the 17th century Maltese chapel of St Mary Magdalene. The lovely small chapel marks the highest point of Malta. Soak in the breathtaking panoramic view over the Mediterranean Sea to the tiny uninhabited island of Filfa from the viewing platform of the chapel. You can also enjoy a scenic hike along the cliffs. Keen walkers can walk the 11.2km long trail from Dingli to Zurrieq. If you are hiking along the cliffs, carry plenty of water and food with you – there are not many shops available here.

🌺Nearby Attractions : If you are here, don’t miss visiting the Blue Grotto , an iconic natural landmark of Malta. Also, not far from the cliff is the Buskett Garden – the only woodland area in Malta. It is a perfect place for a peaceful walk or perhaps a picnic in the gardens. Also, you will see a great view of nearby Verdala Palace – the official summer home of the President of Malta. This palace got featured in the Game of Thrones TV series . With just a few minutes drive from the cliffs, you will find the prehistoric Clapham Junction cart ruts.  

🍔Places to eat Nearby : Try some tasty local cuisine in the Diar Il Bniet restaurant at the Dingli village. For lunch with a sea view, visit the nearby The Cliffs restaurant.

🚌How to reach : Ride the hourly bus 201 from Malta Airport or Rabat. It takes only 12 minutes from Rabat and Mdina. The bus gives a few stops along the cliffs.  

If you are coming from Valletta, catch bus service 52 and 56 to Dingli village. From there, the cliffs are around 10 minutes walk.

🚗Car: It takes around 25 minutes to drive from Valletta and approx 9 minutes from Rabat.

10. Soak up the Sun on the Beaches of Malta

Being an island country in the Mediterranean, Malta is blessed with some stunning beaches. Plus, the weather being very warm and dry in summer, this country is a sunseeker’s paradise. Here are some of the incredibly beautiful beaches in Malta mainland and its sister islands, Gozo and Comino.

⛵Blue Lagoon: Blue Lagoon is your perfect beach escape in Malta. If you are to visit only one beach in this island country, the Blue Lagoon is the one. Located on the island of Comino, Blue Lagoon is a firm favourite with swimmers for its calm and crystal-clear turquoise water. In summer, this place gets super busy with sun-seekers – you would find it hard to get a nice little towel spot on the beach. You will have to take a ferry or private boat tour from the mainland or Gozo to come here.

🐚Golden Bay : As the name suggests, this beach is famous for its lovely golden sands. Located on the northwest coast of the Malta Mainland, Golden Bay is a perfect place for sunbathing and a beach day out with family. It has all the amenities – sun lounges, umbrellas, ice cream shops, bars. Golden Bay is a popular spot for barbecuing, especially at weekends. There are good bus services to this beach from Valletta, Sliema, St Julian’s,  where most of the tourists stay in Malta.

🏖️Ghajn Tuffieha : Not too far from the Golden Bay, lies another stunning beach called Ghajn Tuffieha. Away from any high-rise buildings, It’s one of the beautiful blue-flag certified beaches in Malta . Getting to this red sand beach will require walking down the long flight of steps from the road. Ghajn Tuffieha is one of the best spots in Malta to watch the sunset in the Med. There is a kiosk on the beach that rents sun lounges.

⛱️Mellieha Bay : Mellieha Bay, also known as Ghadira Bay, is one of the most popular beaches in Malta . Located on the north coast of Malta, Mellieha Bay is a suntrap of sweeping sandy stretch. Easily accessible by public transport, this family-friendly beach has all the facilities. It’s the largest blue flag certified beach in the country.

🌴St Peter’s Pool : If you are looking for a scenic quieter beach day – away from the crowded beaches, head towards St Peter’s Pool. Nestled on the east coast near Marsaxlokk, It’s an excellent natural rockpool .

St Peter’s Pool doesn’t have much sand, and the bottom of the water is quite rocky. So, bring water shoes. This place is quite popular for cliff jumping and snorkelling. There is no proper public transport to St Peter’s Pool. You will have to walk about half an hour from the nearest bus stop unless you come here by car or taxi.

🌞Ramla Bay : Located on the northern coast of Gozo, Ramla Bay is a slice of heaven with a beautiful red sandy beach . Dip in the crystal-clear water or simply lie on the beach to soak up the sun. There are regular bus services to Ramla Bay from Victoria, the main centre in Gozo.

💡Insider Tip : Visit the nearby Calypso’s Cave for a wonderful panoramic view of Ramla Bay. Legend has it this cave was mentioned in The Odyssey by Homer, and this is where Odysseus was kept as a ‘prisoner of love’ for seven years.

11. Visit the Basilica of Ta’ Pinu in Gozo

Located in the northwest of Gozo, The Basilica of Ta’ Pinu is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Malta. This gorgeous architectural structure sits between the villages of Gharb and Ghammar. Although the exact origin of the church is unknown, the first mention of this historical site dates back to the 16th century. Some believe many miracles happened in this church.

As the story goes, a local woman from the nearby village heard the divine voice in the late 19th century. After the incident, the church gained massive popularity with the locals and visitors alike.

Admission to the church is free . Admire the beautifully decorated mosaics outside the church. Also, the surrounding scenery is absolutely gorgeous.

🌹Hike Ta’ Għammar Hill :   Just to the opposite of the Basilica of Ta’ Pinu, you will find a winding path going up a nearby small but steep hill. It is known as the Ta’ Għammar Hill. There are 14 different marble statues along the path – they depict scenes from the Stations of the Cross.

At the top, you will be greeted with a majestic coastal view of the sister islands of Malta, Gozo and the blue Mediterranean Sea. Also, the Ta’ Pinu sanctuary in the backdrop looks stunning.

🚌How to reach: From the Victoria Bus Terminal, catch the direct bus service 308. The Journey takes only 13 minutes, and the bus stops next to the Basilica. Alternatively, you can take bus services 311 and 312, but you will have to walk about 12 minutes to get to Ta’ Pinu.

🚗Car – The drive from Victoria takes around 10 minutes.

12. Indulge in a Foodie Break in Malta

You can’t leave Malta without tasting some authentic Maltese dishes. Malta being close to southern Italy, Maltese Cuisine has a strong Italian influence. Ftira, a local flattened sourdough bread , appears on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list . Rabbit Stew is considered the national dish in Malta. Malta is famous for fresh seafood as well. Here are some of the must-try Maltese dishes:

🥖Hobz biz-zejt: Malta has a long history of bread making, and it’s a staple part of the local cuisine. Maltese Bread is a crusty sourdough bread made in a wooden oven. To appreciate a proper taste of it, try out hobz biz-zeit (meaning bread with oil). The slice of bread is rubbed with sweet tomato paste (kunserva) and topped with a bit of olive oil, tuna, capers, onions and cheese.

🍕Gozitan   Ftira: You will have to take a bite of Gozitan Ftira – a traditional Maltese dish originating from the Gozo island. It looks like a pizza, and the usual toppings are thin-sliced potatoes, anchovies, ricotta. We visited Nenu The Artisan Baker, located at the heart of Valletta – they are very popular with locals and tourists for serving the authentic Ftira. It was very delicious – we would definitely recommend a visit.

🥪Pastizzi: Pastizzi is popular street food in Malta. It’s a diamond-shaped flaky pastry with mashed peas or ricotta fillings. Some pastizzeria (shops that sell Pastizzi) also use chicken, anchovies, apples as filling. A popular snack at any time of the day, Pastizzi is a common item on the menu in many pubs and cafes in Malta. Recommended Place to try Pastizzi: Crystal Palace Tea and Coffee Bar near Rabat.

🍗Rabbit Stew: Rabbit Stew (Stuffat tal-Fenek) is considered a national dish of Malta . It’s a tomato-based slow-cooked stew and includes vegetables – such as tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, onions and garlic. Rabbit Stew is widely served as a main dish in fenkata (Rabbit Night). Most of the traditional Maltese restaurants would serve Rabbit Stew. Recommended Restaurants: Ta’ Kris in Sliema, Nenu The Artisan Baker in Valletta, Castelletti Restaurant in Rabat.

🥧Lampuki Pie: Lampuki is the Maltese name for mahi-mahi fish. The fishing season for Lampuki starts in mid-August and lasts till the end of December. Lampuki Pie is a favourite dish among the Maltese. Alongside the fish, seasonal vegetables are also used to make the pie. Most of the seafood restaurants in Malta serves Lampuki Pie.

Other popular Maltese dishes include Timpana (baked macaroni in pastry), Bigilla (Bean Paste), Octopus Stew , Aljotta(fish soup), Imqaret (Date Cake). If you are a beer lover, try out Cisk – an award-winning local lager.

13. Fall in Love with Popeye Village

Located in a coastal inlet on Anchor Bay, the Popeye Village is an amusement theme park and one of the best family-friendly fun things to do in Malta. This village was originally built for the set of 1980 Disney musical movie , Popeye , starring Robin Williams as the fictional character – Popeye the Sailor Man. Today, this 40-year-old film set is a tourist attraction for its picturesque setting.

Once you step inside Popeye Village , you would be greeted by the costumed characters from the movie. Watch the short documentary at the theatre to learn about the making of this movie set. Also, several choreographed dance performances happen throughout the day. Kids will enjoy the puppet show, paddling pool and crazy golf. There are a couple of restaurants inside the village where you can grab a bite to eat. Also, you can swim and chill out at the beach nearby.

🌴Best Viewpoint:   Walk along the cliffs to the opposite side of Popeye village across Anchor Bay. That’s a popular spot to click your perfect selfies for Instagram.  

Take in the stunning view of the village and the turquoise, clear water of the bay. This viewpoint is super easy to find.  

⏰Opening Hours : Winter 10.30 am – 4.30 pm. Summer 10 am – 6 pm.

💰Entrance fees : Summer, adult € 18, children €14. Winter, adult € 15, children € 12.50.

🚌How to reach : Catch the 101 local bus service from Mellieha centre to Popeye bus stop. Mellieha is well connected to other cities of Malta.

14. Explore the Upper and Lower Barrakka Garden

Earlier in this article, we wrote about Valletta and touched upon this must-see visitor attraction. While most of the popular attractions there are paid ones, Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens are completely free to explore and offer a stunning view over Grand Harbour and the Three Cities across the blue Mediterranean water. So, we thought of making a separate point about it.

🌻Upper Barrakka Gardens :   Located on the southeast coast of Valletta, Upper Barrakka Gardens was built in the 1600s by the Italian Knights for recreational purposes. Opened to the public in the early 19th century, this colonnaded garden is one of the popular free visitor attractions today in Malta.  

Upper Barrakka Gardens is an excellent spot to watch the famous Gun Salute that takes place at 12 pm and 4 pm every day from Saluting Battery, which lies directly below the gardens. This saluting battery is one of the oldest operating ceremonial cannons in the world.

Also, watch out for the replica of ‘Les Gavroches‘ by Antonio Sciortino – a famous Maltese artist who built this bronze sculpture in 1904 after drawing inspiration from Victor Hugo’s masterpiece, Les Miserables. There are plenty of other commemorative plaques and monuments in the garden for history lovers.

This garden is open from 7 am to 10 pm. It’s quite easy to find. If you are coming from Grand Harbour, take Upper Barrakka Lift to reach here.

🌷Lower Barrakka Gardens : Not too far from Upper Barrakka Gardens, lies its sister garden – Lower Barrakka Gardens. It’s quieter than the Upper one and is a great peaceful place to watch the cruise ships coming and leaving the Grand Harbour. Also, explore the neoclassical monument to Sir Alexandar Ball – the first civil commissioner of Malta. This temple-style monument has a small fountain in front of it. There are plenty of benches as well to sit and relax and take in the view.

15. Go Underwater Diving in Malta

Malta is a great diving destination for its clear, warm Mediterranean water and magnificent marine life. There are many shipwrecks lying on the seabed off the Maltese coast. This country has been voted one of the top diving destinations in the world time and time again. Here’s a list of top diving spots in Malta.

🐙The Blue Hole: The Blue Hole in Gozo island is a firm favourite among the scuba divers and snorkellers. It’s a natural rock formation having a resemblance to an upright tube. A beautiful 10-metre underwater archway links it to the Mediterranean Sea. Explore the coral gardens where you will come across shoals of marine species that include damselfish, wrasses. Also, you will find large boulders from the fallen-off remains of the famous Azure Window that collapsed in 2017 in a heavy storm.

🦈Um El Faroud : Considered one of the top wreck dives in the Maltese islands , she was a 10,000-tonne oil tanker. After an explosion in 1995, this 115-metre long tanker was scuttled at Wied il-Qrendi, to the southwest coast of Malta. It sits on the sandy seabed – the bottom of the wreck is about 36 metres deep. This is an excellent artificial reef to explore the marine life and the ruins of the tanker.

🐟Inland Sea Tunnel : Located in Dwejra to the west coast of Gozo, Inland Sea Tunnel is one of the most popular scuba diving sites in Malta. It’s a natural semi-circular lagoon connected to the sea by an 80-metre long tunnel. It offers stunning lighting effects and fantastic marine life – a diving paradise.

🐠Santa Maria Caves : Santa Maria Caves in Comino is a popular spot for all levels of diving skills, the water being not too deep. Santa Maria Caves consist of about ten caves. Some of them have lovely underwater tunnels offering plenty of fascinating marine life, including swarming sea breams.

There are plenty of other diving sites in Malta. You can also do PADI certifications here.

16. Take a Wander Around Victoria in Gozo

The second-largest island in the Maltese archipelago, Gozo is much quieter than mainland Malta and home to excellent coastal scenery and beaches. The island’s capital city is Victoria – the main transportation hub and the largest city. The name of the city was changed from Rabat to Victoria by the British in the 19th century. But some locals still call this city   – Rabat. Today Victoria is a vibrant city with many restaurants and shops. The historic Citadel dominates the skyline of this city. We will recommend spending at least a couple of days in Gozo.

🌻Things to do in Victoria : The main tourist attraction in Victoria is the Citadel , a magnificent fortified town. From the Victoria Bus Station, it takes around 10-12 minutes to climb the top of the Citadel. The beautiful panoramic view of Victoria and the countryside of Gozo is well worth the walk.

Inside the city, you will find the historic Cathedral of the Assumption. Take a wander around the maze-like narrow streets and the city walls. There is an abundance of museums inside the complex, such as the Museum of Archaeology, Cathedral Museum, the Folklore Museum and the Nature Museum. Although you are free to explore the Citadel, you have to buy tickets to enter the museums.  

🍔Places to Eat Nearby : For some fresh food, pop into Maldonado Bistro Gozo. Try Mojo’s delicious salad and burgers for lunch.

🚌How to reach Victoria :   To get here from mainland Malta, you need to catch a ferry from Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal. There are bus connections from major cities and towns of Malta to Cirkewwa. The Gozo ferry takes around 25 minutes to reach Mgarr. From there you can catch regular bus services to Victoria.

17. Be Captivated by Charming Marsaxlokk

Set on the southern coast of Malta, Marsaxlokk is a picturesque traditional fishing village famous for its lively waterfront and colourful luzzu boats . Visiting Marsaxlokk is one of the best things to do on a day trip to this island nation. Take a wander around the lively harbour to watch the busy local fisherman preparing to leave for the sea.

🐟Things to see in Marsaxlokk: If you are visiting here on Sunday, look around the famous fish market – It’s very popular with both the tourists and locals. In this open market, you will get everything – from fresh fish to souvenirs. There are many restaurants dotted along the waterfront serving fresh seafood. Pop inside and have a delicious lunch by the water. Visit the Marsaxlokk Parish Church – dedicated to Our Lady of Pompeii.

Later, take a boat trip from the harbour to the nearby St. Peter’s Pool – a beautiful natural pool famous for its clear blue water. If you are up for it, try cliff-jumping into the water. You can also walk or drive from Marsaxlokk to get here.

🚌How to reach Marsaxlokk : From Valletta, catch the bus services 81 and 85 to reach here. Journey time is about 30 minutes. If you are coming from the Airport, catch the hourly bus 119.

18. Embark on a Malta Winery Tour

Malta is one of the smallest wine-producing countries in the world. Mediterranean warm climate, sea breeze and suitable soil properties add up to an ideal combination for winemaking in Malta. Though the production of wine dates back to more than 2000 years ago, palate-pleasing winemaking started in Malta about 100 years ago.

Alongside famous international grape varieties such as Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, local indigenous grapes, like Gellewza and Girgentina, are also used for winemaking. Today, a wine festival takes place in Malta every year in September.

🍷Winery Tour : Visiting a winery is one of the unique things to do in Malta. Book a cellar tour in Marsovin Winery , located not too far from Valletta. Founded in 1919, Marsovin is a household name in Malta and one of the largest wine producers in the country. In their cellar tour, you will hear some fascinating facts and history about Maltese wine. At the end of the tour, you will get to taste three different wines with a delicious platter of nibbles.

If you are staying in Gozo, make sure you pay a visit to Tal-Massar Winery which overlooks the beautiful Gharb Valley. The panoramic view from the winery is simply amazing. Tal-Massar is a family-run winery, and the hosts have wealth of knowledge in winemaking. The tour includes tasting four different wines produced in their winery with fantastic local food pairing.

Ta Mena Estate, Meridiana Wine Estate and Emmanuel Delicata Winemaker are also recommended for winery tours.

19. Explore Sliema

Sliema is Malta’s famous coastal resort town and a commercial hub. This bustling town has plenty of shops, restaurants, bars and hotels lined along its promenade. Also, it is a great base to explore the island and just a ferry ride away from the capital city .

🌺Things to do in Sliema : Stroll along the Victorian seaside promenade of Sliema. It stretches for around 5 kilometres around the peninsula, all the way up to St. Julian. Soak in the charming view of the Valletta skyline dominated by St. John’s Co-Cathedral. Cat lovers will love visiting the small Gnien Indipendenza park – home of many stray cats.  

Although there is no sandy beach in Sliema, there are designated swimming areas beneath the promenade where you can take a dip. Also, Tigné Point Beach is great for sunbathing.

🍺Places to eat nearby : Visit Ta’ Kris for some delicious homemade Maltese cuisine. Get a quick lunch from Fresco’s Cafe & Restaurant . Also, The Black Sheep and Kebab ji are both great places for dinner.

For a drink, pop into Salisbury Arms – a nice and cosy English pub. Also, the nearby The Brew Bar & Grill is a great spot for craft beers, cocktails and tasty food.

🚌How to reach Sliema : There are quite a few buses that leave from Valletta towards Sliema. The journey takes around 15-20 minutes. Catch the direct bus service X2 if you are coming from Malta Airport.

But the most scenic way to reach Sliema is by boarding a ferry from Valletta. Ferries run every half an hour and only takes around 5-10 minutes. A single journey costs €1.50. Return – €2.80.

20. Dive into a Maltese Festival

Attending a festival would be one of the unique things to do in Malta. Many cultural and religious festivals are held in this country, particularly in summer.

One of the most important festivals is the Village Festas which take place from the end of May till September. During this religious festival, Maltese towns and villages celebrate their patron saints. Around 60 Festas happen in Malta and 20 in Gozo – they last for around 3 – 4 days, at different times throughout the summer. If you are visiting Malta in summer, there is a high chance you would get to witness at least one Festa, not too far from your accommodation.

In the village Festas, you would get to see a lot of festivities – band marches, decorated balconies and rooftops with festoons, fireworks. There are food stalls selling Maltese Nougats, Imqaret (date pastries). It’s a completely free event and is a great place to mix with local people.

Malta’s musical festivals – Jazz Festival, Isle of MTV Festival, Glitch Festival and Summer Daze Festival , among many others – are gaining international popularity. Most of them take place in summer. Other cultural festivals include Malta International Arts Festival, Notte Bianca – an annual event held every October in Valletta.

📍Map of the attractions in Malta

Here is a map of all the best places to visit and things to do in Malta. Click on the link to save the Google map on your phone. You can also use the map offline. We have also marked famous places to eat and the best beaches on the island.

Malta Travel Essentials

💸Currency –   The euro is the official currency of this country. Nowadays, all shops, restaurants and accommodations accept international debit and credit cards. If you need to exchange money, there are plenty of banks, ATMs and currency exchange companies around Malta and Gozo.

🌼Local Language – Malta has two official languages – English and Maltese. English is widely spoken in this country. Many locals can also speak in Italian due to this country’s proximity to southern Italy.

💲How Much Does it Cost? Malta is a relatively budget-friendly destination in Europe. With cheap public transport, economic hostels, street foods, and plenty of free things to do – Malta is perfect for solo travellers and backpackers. But during peak seasons, accommodations can get very expensive.  

How to get to Malta

Since Malta is a small island nation at the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, the easiest and the most convenient way to reach here is by plane. Other than that, one can get onto ferries or cruises to get to here. Having plenty of flight options from most of the big cities in Europe, Malta is a popular choice for a beach Holiday.

✈️Flights to Malta

The only airport on the island is Malta International Airport , located in Luqa. Air Malta is the official flag carrier of the country – they operate flights from Europe, the Middle East and North Africa. Other major airlines that fly to Malta include Lufthansa, Emirates, British Airways, Etihad Airways and Turkish Airlines.

If you are looking for budget airlines, Ryanair, EasyJet and Wizz Air run regular flights from most of the big cities of Europe and the UK. There are frequent direct flights from the UK, Spain, Germany, Belgium, Italy and many more. Read below for more information about the flights from the UK.

The capital city, Valletta is about 8 km from the airport and is well connected by bus and taxi.

✈️Flights from the UK

Flights from the UK typically take about three hours to arrive in Malta, depending on the city of your departure. Air Malta flies from London Heathrow, Gatwick and Manchester. Ryanair and EasyJet operate from many airports across the country. They have plenty of scheduled flights from London, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Liverpool, Newcastle , Cardiff and Belfast in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. In Scotland, you can fly from Edinburgh , Prestwick and Glasgow .

⛴️ Ferries to Malta

If you want to combine your Italian adventure with a trip to Malta, jump on a ferry from Pozzallo in Sicily. Operated by Virtu Ferries, the ships moor at the Valletta Waterfront. The journey takes only an hour and 45 minutes. It runs almost daily all year round.

🚢Cruises to Malta

Malta is one of the most popular cruise destinations in all of Europe. The main cruise port is in Valletta . Ships dock at the Valletta Waterfront in the Grand Harbour outside the city walls. From there, you can explore the capital city Valletta on foot or take a short trip to the ancient city of Mdina and Rabat. Also, the picturesque Valletta Waterfront is lined up with cafés and restaurants. Top-rated cruise operators include Marella Cruises, P & O Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, among many others.

How to get around Malta

With an excellent public transport system, regular ferry services, plenty of taxies and car hire, getting around this island is super easy.

We entirely depended on buses during our whole stay in Malta. All the places we have mentioned in this article are easily accessible by bus. It is the cheap and easiest way to get around. They have an extensive network across this island. The main transportation hub is in Valletta, just outside the city wall.  

They are safe, clean and run mostly on time. But, you can expect some minor delays sometimes. Also, bus on the popular routes fills up quite quickly. So, you might have to stand the whole way.  

The single bus fare is €2 in summer and €1.50 in winter. You have to buy the tickets from the bus driver and pay the exact fare in cash. Tickets are valid for two hours, including change of services. If you are planning on staying longer, go for a 7-day unlimited card for €21, or a 12 Single-Day Journeys card for €15 – which you can share.  

Hiring a car will give you more flexibility to explore the hidden, off the beaten path attractions. Roads in Malta are generally in good condition. Just remember to drive on the left side of the road, like in the UK. You can hire a car at the airport or book online in advance from local and international car rental companies. Also, car hire here is not very costly.

There are reliable ferry services to explore the sister islands of Malta – Gozo and Comino. In Malta mainland, the ferry port is located in Cirkewwa, at the northernmost tip of the island.  

The ferry for Gozo runs every day all year round and takes about 20 minutes to get to Mgarr Harbour. You can also bring your car on board. For Comino, you will get boat operators from Cirkewwa in Malta and Mgarr Harbour in Gozo.

Although we didn’t have to use private taxis during our stay, they are available from the airport, Valletta and other popular towns. The official White Taxis run on fixed fare. You can also call the local black cab taxis to pre-book your journey.

Hope you have enjoyed reading our travel guide to 20 Best Things to Do in Malta.

Love, Moumita & Sankha

1 thought on “20 Wonderful Things to Do in Malta: Attractions + Map [2022]”

Great help!!! Fantastes pictures, very helpful information and great tips!!! WELL DONE!!!!

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Home » Best Things to Do in Malta

Things To Do in Malta: 40+ Best Attractions and Activities

If you’re planning to visit the Maltese islands, there are more than enough fun things to do in Malta – from sightseeing to tourist attractions and more adventurous activities.

Here’s a comprehensive list of my best Malta travel tips to help you decide what to do in Malta!

Top 3 Things to Do in Malta

1. head to the stunning blue lagoon.

Malta’s most must-visit destination is on the tiny island Comino: Blue Lagoon Bay . Just northeast of the Maltese coast, this gem of a lagoon boasts the most sparkling azure-blue water, which will invite anyone into the water.

Head here for a lazy day of tanning, swimming and cocktails – and bring a snorkel set just in case; the marine life is exciting.

The best boat tour to the Blue Lagoon is one of Sea Adventure Malta , where you’ll head to the lagoon on one of their three boat options:

• Large catamaran with slides – great for families with kids
• Same large catamaran but at sunset ( highly recommended – much quieter experience!)
• Smaller catamaran (“Sea Odyssey”)

TIP: Get 5% off using coupon code MALTA5

I recommend taking a boat tour rather than organising everything yourself and taking the ferry, as it will save you hassle and also because it can be hard to find a spot to relax on the tiny beach near the Blue Lagoon.

If you’d rather have more flexibility, I recommend taking the iSeeMalta ferry . This hop-on-hop-off ferry works the same way as the buses, which allows you to hop on at different stops and hop off wherever you want.

For just an attractive price, you can get a day pass, with which you can head to the Blue Lagoon and back to your accommodation, wherever that is.

2. Explore the Blue Grotto

The Blue Grotto is one of the most unique things to do in Malta. This is a must-visit, especially on sunny summer days when the Mediterranean seawater sparkles around the impressive rock cave formation in the south of Malta.

You’re taken inside the Blue Grotto with a short boat tour to admire the sunlight bouncing off the sandy sea floor onto the rocks above. Truly magical!

Combine it with a visit to Malta’s traditional fishing village, Marsaxlokk and its big market in this Blue Grotto and Marsaxlokk tour to make the most of your day.

3. Tour the famous Grand Harbour

The absolutely stunning and fortified capital of Malta, Valletta, is a peninsula surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea – and the Grand Harbour . From Marsamxett Harbour in the west to the Three Cities and their harbours on the east side, all the surrounding areas have played a significant role in protecting the capital throughout the centuries.

You can cruise through Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour for just €20 with the iSeeMalta Grand Harbour cruise .

You’ll get the opportunity to imagine the rich history of the area as you visit the natural harbours on both sides of Valletta. This 90-minute hop-on-hop-off tour allows you to get on board wherever you are, as well as make several stops on the way. Flexible and enjoyable!

Check out my two guidebooks full of local knowledge and my best recommendations for your trip, and up-to-date for 2024 !

Malta & Gozo guide book Valletta : An Insider’s Guide to Malta’s Capital

Take the hassle out of planning your trip to Malta and be an informed traveller!

Top 5 Malta Tourist Attractions and Sightseeing Destinations

1. the capital city of valletta.

You can’t visit Malta without visiting its intriguing and gorgeous capital, Valletta. The city holds a centuries-long history and is filled with historical sites. It definitely needs to be on your list of things to do in Malta! Read more about Malta’s capital further down.

2. St. John’s Co-Cathedral

Within Valletta, you’ll find the iconic Saint John’s Co-Cathedral . The Roman-Catholic co-cathedral dates back to 1577, and its interior is considered to be one of Europe’s finest examples of high Baroque architecture. Learn more about the cathedral in the Valletta section of this article.

3. The walled city of Mdina

If you are interested in Malta’s history or want to visit its second-most impressive city, the ancient city of Mdina is bound to impress. The fortified city used to be Malta’s capital, and within its walls hides some of the most admirable art and architecture. Learn more about Mdina in the section below.

4. Gozo: Natural beauty

Prefer nature over city life? Then, the smaller Island of Gozo is an absolute must. Malta’s sister island is a natural gem, with bountiful greenery and plenty of beaches to explore.

A lot quieter than the bustling island of Malta, the idyllic island will capture your heart if you love peace and serenity. Further down below, you can find more details about Gozo and how to get there.

5. Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum

Malta is famous for its prehistoric buildings and remains, and one of the most impressive ones is the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum. This underground burial site dates back to 4000 BC and was only discovered in 1902. Read on to find out more!

Visit Malta’s capital city of Valletta and its many museums

Valletta is a true gem of a place and an absolute must-visit. It’s one of my favourite places in Malta, and I always discover something new whenever I go there.

These are a few of the top places to visit and things to do while you’re there.

St. John’s Co-Cathedral

The jewel of Valletta is the St. John’s Co-Cathedral. A modestly designed exterior hides what’s inside: A jaw-dropping display of art, Baroque design, marble floors with large tombstones and several niches and chapels. To boot, its museum displays works by the world-famous late-Renaissance painter Caravaggio.

La Sacra Infermeria

La Sacra Infermeria’s Great Ward was once Europe’s longest at 155 metres long. The entire Infirmary accommodated a total of 563 beds in 1787.

When visiting La Sacra Infermeria, don’t miss out on the Augmented Reality (AR) experience named ‘Reliving The Sacra Infermeria’. Interact with the history and its protagonists while being transported back in time with this innovative concept – a fun and educational experience for everyone.

There is also the Malta Experience, an audio-visual showing narrating the intriguing 7000-year history of Malta.

In just 45 minutes, you’ll grasp the country’s unique history, which will enrich your entire understanding of the islands, its people, and the places you’ll visit.

Upper Barrakka Gardens

The Upper Barrakka Gardens are a real serene treat in Valletta, hidden away in a corner of the city and offering a break from the bustling capital.

Take a stroll past the fountain and flowers, enjoy the amazing views of the Grand Harbour and grab a coffee while you enjoy some shade. You can also visit the Lascaris War Rooms while you’re here. It doesn’t get better than this!

Grand Master’s Palace

Right in the centre of Valletta, you’ll find the Grand Master’s Palace in all its majesty. The palace was built between the 16th and 18th centuries as the palace of the Grand Master of the Order of St. John, who ruled Malta.

Inside the Grand Master’s palace, you’ll find stunning artworks, heritage items, and old Maltese furniture. You can also visit the Palace State Rooms, located inside Grandmaster’s Palace, which is a very impressive attraction to admire as well.

Finish your visit with the Palace Armoury, which houses a huge collection of armour and artillery that belonged to the Knights of the Order of St. John and the Ottomans.

Lascaris War Rooms

Located under the Upper Barrakka Gardens, the Lascaris War Rooms are known as Malta’s best-kept secret.

The underground complex of tunnels and chambers housed the War Headquarters, which was used to coordinate the island’s defence during the Second World War. After that, the Lascaris War Rooms were used by NATO, and today, you can visit them as a museum.

Church of St. Paul’s Shipwreck

One of Valletta’s oldest churches is the Church of St. Paul’s Shipwreck, dating back all the way to the 1570s.

The story of the apostle St. Paul is described in the New Testament, and it is believed that his shipwreck on the island brought Christianity to Malta. Today, St. Paul is considered Malta’s spiritual father.

National War Museum at Fort St. Elmo

Check out the National War Museum as you explore Fort St. Elmo . With a superb collection of artefacts dating back to prehistoric times, this national museum provides a detailed overview of Malta’s important role in several wars, especially the Second World War.

Casa Rocca Piccola

This unique attraction in the heart of Valletta is an impressive 16th-century palace of a Maltese noble family, and it’s clear from the second you step inside.

Casa Rocca Piccola is still privately owned by a noble Maltese family and lovingly taken care of, and the owners will happily show you around their beloved home.

MUŻA is an art museum located at Auberge d’Italie in Valletta, Malta, displaying works by Maltese and foreign artists representing the major European artistic styles

Formerly known as the National Museum of Fine Arts, it was located at Admiralty House between 1974 and 2016.

Today, it’s the perfect place to visit if you are into art and want to discover some of Malta’s iconic artists and want to learn about Malta’s history through the arts.

Valletta walking tours

You can tour Valletta in different ways, either by yourself with my Valletta travel guidebook  (highly recommended, of course!) or with one of these well-reviewed walking tours:

• Majestic Valletta – Half-day tour – If you only have half a day to see Valletta, fear not – you’ll be able to see the main highlights. This half-day Valletta tour takes you to the Upper Barrakka Gardens, St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and Grandmaster’s Palace without feeling rushed.
• Night tour through Valletta, Mosta and Mdina – Valletta at night is a whole different experience, as people sit back and relax after a day of work. But it isn’t the only city that lights up after sundown, as Mdina and the Rotunda in Mosta shine just as bright. This night tour takes you to all three to give you the most magical Malta at night experience.
• Private Valletta Guided Tour – If you prefer a private guide, this is one of the best options I usually recommend. You’ll be guided around by one of the most knowledgeable tour guides in Malta, who knows Valletta inside out. Apart from being able to book a date of your choice, you can also customise your itinerary, covering a half day (4 hours).
• Valletta: Street Food and Culture Walking Tour If you want to indulge even more in Maltese culture, check out this tour.  You’ll discover the city’s main landmarks while savouring the island’s tastiest street food.
• Valletta: The Dark Side Walking Tour – This night tour is slightly different. You’ll explore the most spectral and mysterious side of the city, with several commonly known ghost stories told at specific spots. Having seen centuries of war, occupation, and violence, that’s no surprise!

More info on sightseeing in Valletta here: Top 20 Things to Do and Places of Interest in Valletta

Admire the Natural Beauty of Gozo

If you have a day or two, I absolutely recommend visiting Gozo Island. The more natural and serene sister island to Malta offers peace and quiet and just as much history as the island of Malta itself. It’s definitely one of my favourite things to do in Malta!

How to get there

You can take the main ferry to Gozo from the north of Malta, in Ċirkewwa. Depending on where you are staying, it can take quite a while to get there – around an hour and a half from Valletta by local bus.

However, the ferry trip to take you across to Mġarr Harbour in Gozo just takes 20 minutes, and a return ticket is €4.65. Ferries go to and from Gozo almost 24/7, about twice per hour.

Another faster option (if you are located centrally) is the fast ferry from Valletta, which also arrives at Mġarr Harbour. The ferry is operated by Gozo Highspeed, charging €7.50 for a one-way ticket. The trip from Valletta to Gozo takes just under 45 minutes.

Just be aware that the vessels, although fast, aren’t recommended for people who get seasick easily!

Take a day trip to Gozo

While public transport exists in the form of buses, the network isn’t known for its efficiency, and a rental car is almost always the better alternative if you’re set on discovering Gozo without help.

These are a few of the best options for day trips in Gozo :

• A fun and exciting way to explore Gozo is on a Tuk Tuk tour . Cruising around in a traditional Tuk Tuk with a driver who knows the very best spots on the island, you’ll be sure you won’t miss a thing while enjoying the sun on the way. Each of these Tuk Tuks can carry up to 6 passengers, so it makes for a great option if you’re travelling with a group or for families with kids. Prices include hotel transfers and lunch! More info here: Gozo Tuk Tuk tours .
• You can also get Quad bike tours with the same operator. These vehicles are for real adventurers and easily cover rough terrain, seating two people. More info here: Gozo quad biking .
• Gozo is gorgeous, and if you have the time, I recommend going for at least one full day. This full-day Gozo tour lets you discover the stunning island and includes all the top attractions, and the price includes all transport and entrance costs.
• This Gozo tour “with a difference” takes you to the lesser-visited spots on the island. Visit the Ġgantija Temples complex (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), hop on a trackless train and enjoy the Marsalforn, Qbajjar and Xwejni bays. You’ll get to see nature and history at once.
• This is another great Gozo full-day sightseeing tour , taking you to the impressive Ta’ Pinu Basilica and on a train ride to the Cittadella in Victoria. Check out Gozo’s beaches and UNESCO World Heritage Sites at a relaxed pace.

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Wander around Victoria’s old town

Gozo’s capital, Victoria, is a small but lovely town with an authentic atmosphere.

Wander around to explore the little alleys, many churches and cosy squares, and make your way to a local coffee shop for a quick break or Maltese pastizzi (puff pastry).

You’ll also find amazing hand-made and original souvenirs in the stores around town.

Explore the Cittadella

In Victoria lies the majestic and ancient Cittadella, Gozo’s fortified city. This is a must-see, as it dates back to circa 1500 BC and is still home to many interesting sites and museums.

Take a nice walk around the city’s walls to see Gozo’s most amazing views, and check out the Old Prison to get an idea of what the Middle Ages in the capital were like.

Visit Dwejra and its Inland Sea

Few spots around Gozo provide as much natural beauty as Dwejra and its surroundings.

From the Inland Sea (a small bathing area surrounded by tall cliffs connected to the open sea) to Fungus Rock (once known for a rare species of fungi) and Dwejra Bay itself, peace and nature are one here.

It’s one of my favourite spots around the Maltese islands.

Fancy a visit to Gozo? Get more ideas here: 25+ Things to Do in Gozo .

Hop-on-hop-off buses and ferries

If you want to see most of Malta and Gozo but are short on time or simply enjoy being driven around with the flexibility to get off anywhere, check out the hop-on-hop-off buses and ferries by iSeeMalta .

The buses and ferries take specific routes, hitting almost all of the islands’ highlights, and you can decide where you want to stop and have a better look around.

Very convenient if you want your transport sorted and know where you want to go.

Go Back in Time at the Silent City of Mdina

Valletta is a historical city, but Mdina beats Malta’s current capital in terms of age and should definitely be in your list of things to do in Malta.

The island’s former capital, also known as the Silent City, dates back all the way to the 8th century BC when Phoenician settlers inhabited the town, which was then known as “Maleth”.

But even if you’re not a history geek, Mdina is an incredible city that you can’t miss out on. Sitting on top of one of the tallest hills on the island of Malta, Mdina is a small town surrounded by tall bastions and a large moat (which is nowadays a garden).

Although it’s a popular option among things to do in Malta, it rarely feels busy in its narrow streets and alleys, and there really is nothing like it. It’s as if you’re taking a step back in time – that’s how well-preserved the place is.

Once there, I also highly recommend paying a visit to the town of Rabat, which you can find on the doorstep of Mdina.

Tours of Mdina

Because Mdina has many stories to tell, getting a tour is a good idea. These are a few of the options:

• Get a 2.5-hour walking tour of the highlights of Mdina and Rabat with an experienced local guide and learn about these towns’ fascinating history.
• This full-day culture & history tour takes you to Mdina, as well as the Dingli cliffs, Catacombs, San Anton, Botanical Gardens, Presidential Palace, the Rotunda in Mosta and Ta’ Qali.
• If you’d like to explore both Mdina and the capital, Valletta, after the sun sets (- a completely different experience), check out this popular night tour .

The best things to do and see in Mdina

• Speaking of food: Sample some local sweets paired with Italian coffee at Fontanella Tea Garden or enjoy lunch at Xara Palace  – Trattoria AD 1530 . You can also grab some of the tastiest pastizzi (savoury pastries with ricotta cheese or mashed peas) made in Malta at is-Serkin (just outside of Mdina, on the edge of Rabat – close to the Domus Romana – see below).
• St. Paul’s Cathedral can be found at the heart of Mdina and is worth a visit. TIP: The small chapel of St. Roque around the corner is a little hidden gem which you can admire from inside during the day.
• Palazzo Falson is one of the quirkier places to visit in Malta. The former home of a collector of antiquities, this ages-old house is full of old weapons, art and artefacts collected by its most famous resident Olof Frederick Gollcher.
• The National Museum of Natural History is located in the stunning 18th-century Vilhena Palace, designed in the French Baroque style. From local geology to human evolution and from marine fauna to birds, you’ll discover everything there’s to learn about nature here.
• The Domus Romana is one of the finest examples of Roman Empire remains found on the island of Malta. This museum, right outside Mdina, is known for its beautiful examples of Roman mosaic floors, forming part of what once was a Roman house.

Experience Malta as a Local at the Three Cities

Walking around, you will take in the century-old architecture and hear the locals share daily gossip from their balconies over a te fit-tazza – a traditional Maltese cup of tea.

You’ll get the most out of the Three Cities by simply wandering around, having a taste of traditional Maltese food in one of the many restaurants, and taking in the views (and sun!) at the Grand Harbour.

Prefer a guided tour? I highly recommend this half-day tour (4 hours) which includes a harbour cruise by boat.

While you’re in the Three Cities, you can opt to visit these museums in Vittoriosa:

Fort St. Angelo

When the Knights of the Order of St. John arrived in Malta, it wasn’t Valletta or even Mdina, which was their seat of power. It was Vittoriosa.

At the end of the peninsula of Vittoriosa, you can find the beautifully restored Fort St. Angelo, which was the home of the Knights and which played an important part in their victory during the Great Siege of Malta.

Apart from the impressive building and its fortifications, the museum inside its walls tells the story well.

It’s not just a destination for history buffs, families with kids also enjoy a visit to explore Fort St. Angelo.

Malta Maritime Museum

Surrounded by the sea, it’s no wonder that Malta has a rich naval history.

Covering over 7000 years, the Maritime Museum presents over 20,000 artefacts that represent traces of occupancy, conflict and change throughout the centuries.

Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Malta’s history is long and intriguing, so much even that three sites have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List , while another seven are on the Tentative List.

1) Valletta

First on the Inscribed list is Malta’s capital, Valletta, which is no surprise because the city is basically a historical open-air museum.

Built in the 16th century by the Knights of Malta, it’s one of the smallest capital cities in Europe, largely surrounded by impressive fortifications.

Despite intense bombing during the Second World War, a large number of centuries-old buildings have survived, and there’s something to admire at almost every corner.

Valletta is a destination in itself, and you can easily spend three days sightseeing there. A number of popular things to do in Malta can be found here, so you won’t get bored here.

2) The Megalithic Temples of Malta

Seven of the several Megalithic temples that Malta is known for are recognised by UNESCO, and most are open to the public.

The most important temples were built between approximately 3600 BC and 2500 BC, and are impressive to visit. Although you could list them all on your sightseeing itinerary, my advice is as follows:

• Visit the Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra temples near the village of Qrendi, in the South of Malta. These temples are some of the best-preserved examples and are located next to each other. They also have an excellent visitors’ centre that provides rich information on the temples as a whole and the people who built them.
• Alternatively, the ancient ruins of the Tarxien Temples are also a great option and a little more central on the island of Malta. The Tarxien Temples also have a small visitors’ centre, but more importantly, the remains of the temples are worth viewing.
• Visit the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta if you want to get more detail on the subject and admire some of the unique artefacts found around some of the temples.
• If you plan to stay in Gozo, the Ġgantija Temples should be on your to-do list.

3) Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum

Another extremely impressive UNESCO World Heritage site to visit is the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, an underground Neolithic complex in use between 4000 BC and 1500 BC.

Discovered accidentally in 1902, it’s a popular sightseeing destination for history buffs and curious culture-seekers. In fact, I recommend buying tickets in advance from Heritage Malta if you decide to visit the Hypogeum.

Sample fresh seafood at Marsaxlokk

An island in the middle of the Mediterranean can’t go without a fishing hotspot, and Malta’s famous fishers’ village is Marsaxlokk , in the south of the island.

With picturesque, colourful luzzu (traditional Maltese fishing boats) all around the harbour and some of the island’s best seafood, you can have an amazing time in this tiny fishing village.

On Sunday mornings, there’s a famous fish market, selling anything from seafood and fresh produce to souvenirs and clothes.

Don’t miss out on the local cuisine, especially if you love fish, and wander around to spot the Marsaxlokk parish church.

Though Marsaxlokk is picturesque, it is also quite small, so the things to see and do are limited. That’s why I recommend taking this combo tour with the Blue Grotto , where you’ll be hitting the South’s highlights in one day.

The Blue Grotto and Marsaxlokk make for a great sightseeing combination, so make sure to see both!

Take the family to Popeye Village

Popeye Village is a must if you’re travelling with children, but the view is just as impressive even if you aren’t with the little ones.

The colourful village was built up against the cliffs in Mellieħa in 1980 as a set for the iconic Popeye film starring Robin Williams, so you might recognise it if you’re a bit of a movie buff.

If you’re on a budget or don’t feel like going inside Popeye Village, do go for a swim at the bottom of the cliffs at Anchor Bay.

This picturesque bay and its sparkling water lures down many tourists. It’s a great spot for snorkelling and diving, too, provided the wind direction is favourable.

Visit the Malta National Aquarium

If you love marine life or want to entertain the whole family, visit the Malta National Aquarium.

Discover the Mediterranean species that can be found all around the Maltese islands and plunge into Gozo and Comino’s waters.

But that’s not all – you’ll find history from the time of the Roman Empire, exotic species in the Tropical Oceans zone, and plenty of other interesting animals in the reptiles and amphibians area. Lots to see and learn!

Explore Sea Life in the wild

Scuba diving.

Malta’s underwater life is rich, as you’ll find caves, reefs, and wrecks dotted all around the islands.

Some of Europe’s most impressive dive sites are located in Malta, Gozo and Comino, and with plenty of Mediterranean wildlife, there is always something interesting to see.

Gozo’s Blue Hole is one of the most stunning dive sites around the island, as you descend into a natural swimming pool and find yourself between caves and rock formations.

A good reason to visit Malta is that it is also a great place to discover scuba diving, get your license, or even further develop your skills by doing one of the more advanced courses.

These are a few recommended dive sites to check out:

Um El Faroud

A massive tanker, 115 metres, sunk to a depth of 31-35 metres as an artificial reef in 1995. Today, it is considered one of Malta’s best wrecks, with lots of marine life and plenty to explore. You need to be an advanced diver for this dive site.

Patrol boat P29 & Rozi

This East German minesweeper became a Maltese Patrol Boat in 1997 and sunk a decade later, after which it sits on a sandy bottom at 36 metres deep. Head to the north of Malta, Cirkewwa, to get a good look at the P29 and the Rozi wreck. You need to be an advanced diver for this dive site.

Santa Marija Caves, Comino

You can swim through the Santa Marija caves in Comino, where you’ll see stunning light reflections on the vertical walls and observe abundant marine life. This diving spot is for divers of all levels.

Inland Sea Tunnel, Gozo

Near the famous Blue Hole in Gozo, you’ll find the Inland Sea Tunnel, which is also an amazing dive site. Swim through the 80-metre-long tunnel from the Inland Sea to the open water and admire the light show that the sun and water create.

Marine wildlife

Malta’s cliffs, reefs and wrecks are home to many different Mediterranean marine species.

The ones you’ll likely come across underwater in Malta include groupers, amberjack, various bream, octopi, squid, flying fish, gurnard, stingrays, meagre, bogue, red mullet, parrotfish and the occasional moray eel.

Though there aren’t many big fish around the islands, a lucky diver might see tuna, dolphins and bonitos – but don’t get your hopes up too much.

Snorkelling

The best spots for snorkelling in Malta are those with crystal blue waters and plenty of rock formations and reefs for fish and little sea animals to hide in.

Fomm ir-Riħ Bay

This remote beach is a gem in itself, as not many tourists find their way there, but the underwater life might be even more impressive.

The sea is clean and clear, and there are plenty of fish, water animals and rock formations to spot.

St. Peter’s Pool

St. Peter’s Pool in the south of Malta is a popular natural pool where locals and tourists alike love to enjoy a long summer day. Besides cliff jumping, the area is ideal for snorkelling, as there are rocks, cliffs and beautiful fish species. You can get there either by car, on foot or by taking one of the boat tours from Marsaxlokk.

Blue Lagoon

Comino’s Blue Lagoon is perhaps Malta’s most famous spot for swimming, sunbathing and snorkelling. Remember that you definitely won’t be the only one here, but many would say the crystal-clear waters are worth it.

Check out the caves, beaches and inlets around Comino too, where you’ll find more marine life and fewer people.

Head to one of Malta’s Sandy Beaches

Although it’s just a tiny rock in the Mediterranean Sea, there are a few beautiful sandy beaches around Malta to admire.

You can either visit these beaches by public transport or with a rental car or get a completely different experience by enjoying these beaches at sea: This Beaches and Bays Cruise by Sea Adventure Excursions is highly recommended .

You’ll sail to the first two of the beaches below (depending on the weather/sea conditions) on a catamaran, combined with a stop at the Blue Lagoon.

Want to just visit the beaches the old-fashioned way? These are my top recommendations!

Golden Bay Beach

Golden Bay is Malta’s staple beach and definitely the place to go if you’re seeking a sunny day on a large, clean and comfortable beach.

Although it does get busy in summer, Golden Bay has access to all the amenities you might need – from toilets and kiosks to all the water sports you can imagine – and is easily accessible for anyone, whether you drive yourself or hop on a bus.

Especially on weekends, it’s also a popular beach for barbecues, and there’ll be a lively atmosphere.

Riviera Bay

Riviera Bay, also known as Għajn Tuffieħa , is my all-time favourite beach. It is situated right next to Golden Bay Beach, just a 10-minute walk away. It is lesser-known and therefore slightly less busy, but it’s also way smaller, making it quite crowded on summer days.

At this beautiful bay, you’ll find more surfers, stunning nature to explore and hike through, and one restaurant that offers basic meals.

Do keep in mind that you need to descend and ascend stairs to get there, so it’s not the most easily accessible.

St. Peter’s Pool isn’t a sandy beach but a beautiful natural pool near Marsaxlokk, in the south of Malta.

This natural swimming pool is popular for swimming and cliff jumping, but you can also do some amazing snorkelling here.

Head to the natural swimming pool from Marsaxlokk village and spend your day on the rocks while taking in the sun and the sea.

Experience the Festa

Maltese people know how to party, and it shouldn’t surprise you that they have plenty of local and national festa – feasts.

For each saint and event, there is a celebration, and towns typically have their own annual festa, too.

Check out this year’s festa calendar to see when and where there’s a festa around the time you’re visiting because it will definitely make your visit a unique one.

Visit the Mosta Dome

Perhaps Malta’s most impressive church (though the St John’s Co-Cathedral is hard to top) is the Mosta Dome, aka Rotunda . Built in 1860, this enormous rotunda is the third-largest unsupported dome in the world.

It survived a 200kg bomb falling through the dome without exploding during the Second World War, and today, it still proudly stands as one of Malta’s most impressive buildings.

Go Underground at St. Paul’s Catacombs

The St. Paul’s Catacombs, located on the outskirts of Mdina in the heart of Rabat, served as a burial ground during the Punic and Roman times.

The Roman-Byzantine catacombs complex consists of interconnected underground cemeteries, with more than 30 hypogea, used up to the 7th and 8th centuries AD. Definitely worth a visit if you’re a history buff!

Let yourself go: Malta Nightlife

Want to sample some of the local nightlife ? There are a few key options to go for.

1)   Paceville

If you’re a party animal, you can’t head to Malta without visiting Paceville. The town is Malta’s party hub, with a concentration of restaurants, bars, pubs and clubs. Whatever you’re into, you’ll find it here. Brace yourself for cheap drinks and good times.

2) Join a boat party

Available during the summer months only, you can hop on a large boat for a sunset trip from Sliema with a DJ, drinks, games and a lot of fun. These boat parties in Malta are a really unique experience and a great way to cool down, dance and have a few drinks while taking in the scenes, enjoying the vibes and taking a dip in the sea at one of the stops.

3)   Open-air clubbing

If you’re visiting Malta during the warmer months, you have to give open-air clubbing a go. The Gianpula complex on the outskirts of Rabat consists of 9 nightclubs, of which 7 are outdoor clubs, as well as rooftop lounges, pool clubs and festival arenas. With 200 parties per year, there is always something going on at Gianpula.

Alternatively, check out Uno , which is located on the edge of the Ta ‘Qali Crafts Village.

4)   Valletta

If you’d rather have a more laid-back night out, Valletta is perfect to spend your evenings. From good restaurants to classy wine bars and cosy pubs, you’ll find that there is always something going on. Check out the famous Bridge Bar for live jazz on Fridays and a drink on the ancient steps, or head to Trabuxu Wine Bar for a glass of local wine in a 400-year-old stone vaulted cellar.

Unwind in Nature

Dingli cliffs.

For some of Malta’s most stunning views, you need to visit the Dingli Cliffs in the south of the island – it’s Malta’s highest point. Spend an afternoon hiking along the beautiful coast and explore Dingli village’s surroundings before settling down to enjoy the sun setting into the sea.

From there, you’ll also be able to spot the small, uninhabited islet of Filfla.

Buskett Gardens

Buskett, also known as the Buskett Gardens, is Malta’s only woodland area, located in a valley in Siġġiewi – just east of Dingli and close to Rabat and Mdina.

The forest was planted by the Knights of St. John as a hunting reserve and is now home to the Verdala Palace – an official residence of the President of Malta.

San Anton Gardens

The San Anton Gardens are some of Malta’s loveliest gardens, with a large variety of gorgeous flowers and plants. Located in the central village of Attard, you’ll discover fountains, little ponds with ducks and turtles, and plenty of different flowers.

The garden and the San Anton Palace it belongs to were built by Grand Master Antoine de Paule, and the palace is currently the residence of the Maltese President.

Sample Maltese food

Whether you are into street food, traditional food or wine, tasting the local food is one of the best things to do in Malta.

Street food

You can’t say you’ve been to Malta if you haven’t sampled some of the islands’ delicious street food.

The country’s national snack is known as pastizzi – a hearty puff pastry traditionally filled with peas or ricotta cheese. Nowadays, you’ll also find different variations, such as chicken and Nutella.

You’ll find pastizzi in almost every town and on every street corner, but the best pastizzi in the country can be found in is-Serkin in Rabat, near Mdina.

If you’re up for a bigger meal, a traditional Maltese dish is rabbit stew. Locally known as stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew) has been a staple of Malta since the Knights of St. John, so it is both a cultural and a historical staple. Not to be missed!

For lunch, grab a ftira with a can of Cisk (local beer) at a local kiosk. This isn’t just your average sandwich – it is made of mouthwatering Maltese bread, topped with tomato sauce, tuna, fresh tomatoes, onion, capers, goat cheese, and olives.

Maltese wine

While Malta may not be the first destination that comes to mind when thinking of wine tasting, the archipelago has a perfect Mediterranean climate, and local wineries know exactly how to make great wine out of indigenous grapes.

Visit the Marsovin Winery or the Meridiana Wine Estate to get a taste of Malta’s very best wines, or order La Valette while eating out.

If you can’t get enough of it, this wine-tasting day trip combines a visit to the historic Three Cities with Senglea, Vittoriosa, and Cospicua in the morning and a professional afternoon wine-tasting.

Decided on what to do in Malta or not quite sure yet?

If you need more inspiration, check out these carefully crafted itinerary guides:

• Malta itinerary for 7 days/one week
• 4/5 Days in Malta
• 3 Days in Malta

Do you still have questions left? Let me know in the comments below, and I’ll get back to you ASAP!

Edward is the Founder and Editor of Malta Uncovered and author of two guidebooks on Malta and Valletta.

As a tourist-turned-expat with Maltese roots, he knows the islands inside out and helps thousands of visitors enjoy a memorable trip every year.

Was this article helpful? Share it with your friends!

Just a small note regarding Golden Bay. One cannot use open fire (charcoal) BBQs on that beach; park rangers rightfully monitor the area, and you would risk a fine. Best that the article is updated. 🙂 Nonetheless well done for the article and ideas!

Thanks Chris, you’re right – updated it. Thanks for flagging! 🙂

Amazing blog! I won’t need to check any other travel blog/TripAdvisor – everything you need and more is nicely structured in this guide! Already booked my accommodation based on your tips. One question – are the Jeep safari trips in Gozo nice and relaxed or would it be a little wild? I’m traveling with a toddler and I’m not much into wild driving either 😉 Thanks

Hi Andra, you’re welcome and happy to hear it’s been helpful to you! It’s been a while since I went on one of those safaris but if I recall correctly they’re not the smoothest of rides. To be safe I’d contact whatever company you’re looking to use in advance though.

Very, very helpful guide. Thank you!

Glad it’s proven to be useful to you, Geraldine!

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Alex Hare / GettyImages

The Mediterranean island country of Malta is an archipelago of three inhabited islands and several small ones. Malta is the main island, followed by smaller Gozo and tiny Comino. Inhabited for millennia and a prize for military and mercantile powers seeking to control the Mediterranean, the country offers a mix of historic and prehistoric sites, seaside resorts and watersports, and lively nightlife. Here are 15 of our favorite things to do in Malta.

Go for Baroque in Valletta

Malta Tourism Authority 

Valletta, the capital and largest city of Malta, has an ornate historic center built mostly in the Baroque style. The current city core was constructed after 1565, when the Order of St. John, also known as the Knights of Malta, settled on the island and built Valletta as their capital. Their rule lasted more than 200 years, and their artistic and architectural influence permeates the city. Baroque highlights include the St. John Co-Cathedral and the Grandmaster's Palace, and the style is evident on facades throughout the city center.

Marvel at St. John’s Co-Cathedral

To call Valletta's St. John's Co-Cathedral "ornate" is a gross understatement. It's a riot of high Baroque style, with every inch of its elaborate interior covered with carved, gilded arches, painted vaults recalling John the Baptist's life, and marble floors covering the tombs of hundreds of the Knights of Malta. The cathedral's masterpiece is without a doubt Caravaggio's "The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist," a huge canvas that typifies the chiaroscuro (dramatic contrast between light and dark) effect for which his work is known.

Go Back in Time at Mdina

TripSavvy / Linda Strauta

Once the capital of Malta and its noble families' home, fascinating Mdina, called "the silent city," is a world away from the rest of the island. Entirely enclosed within ancient stone walls, the nearly car-free city comprises of narrow alleyways and small piazzas lined with mansions, many of them still in splendid condition. Come here in the early evening, when the lamplights start to glow, and it really feels like you've stepped back in time. Dine inside the walls or in adjacent Rabat, with its lively bars and restaurants.

Stroll Marsaxlokk's Pretty Harbor

On the southeastern end of Malta, a sheltered bay protects one of the prettiest sights in Malta—the fishing village of Marsaxlokk. The present town, mostly built after the 1850s on a site inhabited for millennia, wraps around the harbor, where traditional luzzu fishing boats moor. The boats are beloved for their colorful paint jobs, including a painted eye on each side of the prow—said to protect the boats and fishers from bad luck. This is a great place to eat fresh seafood at any number of outdoor restaurants along the harbor. Seventy percent of Malta's fishing fleet is based here, and on Sundays, a lively fresh fish market takes place.

Unearth the Past at Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra Temples

Robert Mulder / GettyImages

The monumental temple of Ħaġar Qim and the nearby Mnajdra temples form, collectively with other megalithic temples on Malta and Gozo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They earned this designation for being the oldest freestanding stone structures in the world—older than the pyramids of Egypt, Stonehenge, and Ireland's New Grange. At Ħaġar Qim, a visitor center explains the temple complex's history and contains artifacts found during excavations.

Tour The Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua)

Krzysztof Dydynski / GettyImages

For as busy and crowded as Valletta can be, just across the Grand Harbour, a quiet, historic respite awaits. Known as The Three Cities, the side-by-side towns of Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua offer a perspective on Malta in sharp contrast to Valletta. The Knights of Malta first settled the combined area before they built Valletta and contains historic bastions, churches, and palaces. The cities also contain narrow residential streets pleasant for walking—and a lot of Airbnb-type vacation rentals are located here.

Ride a Dgħajsa Across Grand Harbour

Malta's equivalent of Venetian gondolas, dgħajsa boats are colorful rowboats that ply the waters of Valletta's Grand Harbour and carry passengers back and forth between Valletta and The Three Cities. And the best part, unlike the pricey gondolas of Venice, a ride on a dgħajsa costs just 2 euros one-way.

Take a Tuk-Tuk Tour of Gozo

Yippee Malta 

There's a lot to see on Gozo, the second-largest island in the Maltese Archipelago, and tooling around in an open-air, motorized tuk-tuk may be the most fun way to see it all. The colorful tuk-tuks of Yippee Malta seat up to six passengers for guided tours of the island's top sights, including its notable churches, archaeological and historical sites, the ancient salt flats, and its spectacular sea cliffs and rock formations.

Dive into Comino's Blue Lagoon

At just 3.5 square kilometers, tiny Comino might be easily overlooked by tourists were it not for its spectacular spots for snorkeling, diving, and kayaking. And the Blue Lagoon tops the list. Thanks to a combination of white sand, clear turquoise water, and a protected inlet, the lagoon draws boaters, swimmers, and kayakers. You can get there via ferry from Cirkewwa or Marfa on Malta or private boat tours from both Malta and Gozo. You can also kayak there (see below).

Paddle Around Gozo

Karina Movsesyan / GettyImages

The coastlines of Gozo and nearby Comino are mostly rugged and rocky and interspersed with impressive sea caves carved from millions of years of pounding waves. Most are inaccessible on foot, but they can be explored by kayak. Gozo Adventures is one of several outfitters on Gozo offering escorted full- or half-day kayaking tours of Gozo and Comino, including instruction for beginners and guide with you at all times. Swim in sea caves and hidden coves, and discover a side of these islands that can only be seen from the water.

Kick Back at Golden Bay

Malta Tourism Authority

Sandy beaches are a rarity on Malta, and this crescent of sand on a wide inlet is one of the most popular places on the island to pitch a sun umbrella. Though it gets crowded in the summer months, Golden Bay has a large beach area. Families favor it for its accessibility and amenities—including umbrella and lounger rentals, watersports rentals, food concessions, and lifeguards on duty.

Wander the Mazelike Hypogeum

 DEA PICTURE LIBRARY / GettyImages

The Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, usually just shortened to the Hypogeum, a labyrinth of underground, rock-cut burial chambers built between 3600 and 2500 BCE. It's set in the town of Paola, not far from Valletta. Artifacts retrieved from the three-level complex have offered great insights into Malta's earliest inhabitants. Note that to visit the Hypogeum, it's best to plan ahead. To keep the site's microclimate intact, only a limited number of visitors are allowed in each day, so reservations are strongly recommended.

Stay Out Late in Sliema, St. Julian’s and Paceville

Valletta's bars and restaurants get busy after dark, but for nightlife, Maltese and tourists alike know to head to the trio of developments in the Northern Harbour District—Sliema, St. Julian’s, and Paceville. A long seaside promenade, scores of modern dining and shopping complexes, mixed with an air of wealth, make this area north of Valletta the place to spend one's disposable income—whether for seaside dining, designer shopping, or late-night revelry. And it's all just a short taxi ride from Valletta.

Jump Into St. Peter's Pool

Sergio Pereira / GettyImages

Near Marsaxlokk on the southeastern side of Malta, St. Peter's Pool is among the most stunning of the country's many natural sea pools. The wave-carved pool is surrounded by a "beach" composed of flat rock slabs suitable for spreading a towel. Daredevils jump into the crystal blue-green waters below, but there are also ladders to access the pool. Snorkeling is popular here, though the area is not well-suited for small children, thanks to both difficulty accessing it and the depth of the water in the pool.

Act Like a Kid at Popeye Village

 Allard1 / GettyImages

This small, whimsical theme park was first constructed as the stage set for the 1980 Robin Williams film, "Popeye." The set remained after filming was completed, and the storybook fishing village was converted to a tourist attraction. Today, there's a lagoon for swimming and watersports, plus costumed characters from the Popeye cartoons, who pose for photos and put on periodic shows. The park's scale makes it a good bet for little kids who need a break from touring historical sites.

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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

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

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

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Discussion 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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Touropia Travel

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10 Top Tourist Attractions in Malta

By Touropia Editors · Last updated on December 2, 2021

For such a small island, Malta is absolutely packed with fascinating treasures. Breathtaking ancient sites, charming cities and beautiful beaches are just the beginning. Malta has attracted adventurers for centuries, and modern visitors have many opportunities for creating lasting memories in this enchanted place. Whether tourists want to enjoy relax by the sea, sampling Mediterranean dishes or discovering a romantic piece of the past, the top tourist attractions in Malta certainly offer something for everyone.

10. Mellieha Bay [SEE MAP]

Mellieħa Bay (also known as Għadira Bay) is the longest and most popular sandy beach in the Maltese Islands. Handy cafes sell food and drinks, making it possible to stay onsite without taking a break from the relaxation. A 15-minute walk leads up the steep hill to the rapidly developing town of Mellieħa, perched picturesquely atop a ridge. Nearby attractions include Popeye Village, the set of the 1980 film and the restored St. Agatha’s Tower from the 17th century.

9. The Citadella [SEE MAP]

On the island of Gozo and within the city of Victoria rests a stunning example of ancient architecture, the Citadella. It was the inhabitants’ main fortification for centuries. It was first fortified around 1500BC, and continued development by the Phoenicians until, by Roman times, it had become a complex Acropolis. The existing structures invite explorers of all ages to wander through ramparts, store rooms and tunnels. The views from the Citadella are not to be missed. Even better is the view of the Citadella itself as the sun goes down.

8. Hypogeum [SEE MAP]

The Ħal-Saflieni Hypogeum in the city of Paola is the only prehistoric underground temple in the world. The temple consists of halls, chambers and passages carved out of rock. Thought to be originally a sanctuary, it became a necropolis in prehistoric times. The complex is grouped in three levels – the upper level (3600-3300 BC), the middle level (3300-3000 BC), and the lower level (3150 -2500 BC). The deepest room in the lower level is 10.6 meters (35 ft) underground. Only a limited number of visitors are allowed entry and there can be a 2-3 weeks wait to get a ticket.

7. Blue Lagoon Bay [SEE MAP]

Found on the tiny island of Comino which sits between the main islands of Malta and Gozo, the Blue Lagoon is a restful getaway. The island is so small that no cars are allowed on it. It is also largely uninhabited and only one hotel is located onsite. Most people arrive on a daily basis via speed boat to claim their own section of sand on the lagoon for the day. Sparkling turquoise waters and white sand make a lovely backdrop for sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling and simply enjoying the beautiful views.

6. Golden Bay [SEE MAP]

Golden Bay is one of the few sand beaches on the north west coast of Malta, and subsequently also one of the most popular. Sun beds and umbrellas are readily available for hire to ensure a comfortable day on the sand. Several beach clubs and a large hotel are located near the beach. Because it’s such a well-known beach and receives so many tourists, there are several vendors in the area offering rental equipment for various water sports. One of the best ways to enjoy this beach is at sunset when it truly lives up to its name.

5. Marsaxlokk [SEE MAP]

This picturesque fishing village is just a 30 minute bus ride from Valletta. Taking the bus is perhaps the best way to get there, particularly since it’s notoriously difficult to park in Marsaxlokk, especially near the waterfront. The village is very walkable, and with its colorful daily marketplace, strolling is the best way to experience it. The sight of the brightly painted luzzu fishing boats in the bay and the tranquil surroundings make this a very pleasant place to have lunch at one of the quayside restaurants.

4. Mdina [SEE MAP]

Mdina is an ancient walled city inhabited and possibly first fortified by the Phoenicians around 700 BC. Higher fortifications were added by Malta’s Arab rulers and Norman rulers. After the Knights Hospitaller arrived in the mid 1500’s the importance of Mdina as the seat of power faded steadily. What was once the old capital of Malta became the ‘silent city’, almost a ghost town. Today most of the palazzos belonging to the old aristocracy are being restored and the tourists bring life to the place, but there are only 300 inhabitants left.

3. Azure Window [SEE MAP]

A breathtaking natural limestone arch with a flat top, the Azure Window is one of Gozo’s top attractions. It’s been featured in movies and television shows, and is considered an indispensable part of the Malta experience. The tourist village of Dwejra is nearby to serve the needs of visitors who scuba dive, swim and boat around the arch where it drops into the Dwejra Bay. Boat tours are available, offering plenty of opportunities to capture great pictures. The arch is visible from a great distance. Most people hike there, enjoying the extraordinary view as they go and then cooling off in the water.

2. St. John's Co-Cathedral [SEE MAP]

Situated in Malta’s capital city of Valletta, the St. John’s Co-Cathedral is recognized as an outstanding example of Baroque architecture. Its exterior is forbidding and deceptive, as it closely resembles a fort. Once inside, visitors discover ornate decoration and priceless works of art. Perhaps the most recognizable piece is Caravaggio’s the Beheading of Saint John the Baptist. The cathedral was commissioned in 1572, and was intended to be the conventual church for the Knights of St. John, a noble order made up of the sons of some of Europe’s leading families. The knights defended Malta against marauding Turks, then proceeded to build Valletta and the cathedral.

1. Hagar Qim and Mnajdra [SEE MAP]

The prehistoric temples of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra are found on the south coast of Malta, perched on top of a cliff and overlooking the islet of Filfla. The temples date back to around 3600-3200 BC. Hagar Qim consists of a series of interconnected, oval chambers with no uniform arrangement, and differs from other Maltese temples in lacking a regular trefoil plan. Mnajdra, a 700 meter (2,300 foot) walk downhill from Ħaġar Qim, is more elaborate. There are three temples side by side, each with the trefoil plan and a different orientation. An excellent visitor center offers many interactive exhibits. It is a fitting way to begin an exploration of the temples themselves. The views of the sea beyond are spectacular.

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• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

The Must-Visit Attractions in Malta

Steeped in history and blessed with a unique mix of Mediterranean and Arabic culture, Malta has plenty to keep you busy on holiday, whether you want to swim in the Blue Lagoon, shop in Mdina, or soak up history at the Rotunda of Mosta. Here are the attractions we think you shouldn’t miss.

Architectural Landmark

Also known as the Silent City, the former capital of Malta, Mdina, is an absolute joy to visit. Behind its high walls lies a city that dates back almost 4,000 years. During medieval times, Mdina was dubbed the Noble City, as it housed, unsurprisingly, many noble families. Today, many residents of the fortified city (around 300) are descendants of these families, with the houses being passed down from generation to generation. Vehicle restrictions means you’ll need to explore on foot. Wind through the narrow, sodium-lit streets and experience a city where time seems to have stood still.

2. A Village Feast

Malta enjoys 14 national public holidays a year, including days such as Freedom Day (the anniversary of the withdrawal of British troops from Malta) and the Feast of Our Lady of Victories (the anniversary of the end of the Great Siege of Malta in 1565). In addition to the national holidays, each village celebrates its own feast between the months of May and September. In recognition of each village’s patron saint, locals come together to participate in festivities that ooze Maltese tradition. Bands, food stalls, flags and statues line the streets, local businesses extend their hours and entertainment continues into the early hours. The pinnacle of each event is the fireworks display, which gets better and better each year.

3. Saluting Battery

At the edge of the Grand Harbour, Valletta, is perhaps the oldest saluting battery still in operation in the world, protecting the island’s capital from attack for almost 500 years. With spectacular views across the Grand Harbour of Fort St Angelo and the three cities of Senglea, Vittoriosa and Cospicua, the battery can be viewed from the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Arrive at 11.45am for the short commentary before the firing at midday.

5. Ta' Qali Crafts Village

For unique gifts and souvenirs pay a trip to Ta’ Qali. This small but well-stocked crafts village is based in an old RAF wartime airfield where Nissen huts have been repurposed to house all kinds of original Maltese gifts and crafts. With workshops showing craftsmen’s skill in pottery and filigree-making, to stalls selling local gemstones and homemade preserves, this quaint village will provide you with plenty of traditional gifts to take home.

The town of Sliema is full of bars, restaurants and shops, but it’s not as busy as the capital of Valletta, making it a great place to spend a day. With a coastline running to St Julian’s, Sliema is Malta’s biggest coastline resort and attracts many as a main hub for meeting. As the primary location for large company recruitment and with stunning views of Valletta, it’s no wonder Sliema properties are much sought after. An easily accessible location from across the island, Sliema is a unique town that mixes the old with the new. The winding back streets feature traditional buildings that have remained the same for decades. It’s a great place to explore.

7. Blue Grotto

Natural Feature

A collection of naturally formed caves and a 30m (94ft) arch make up the Blue Grotto. The site attracts more than 100,000 visitors a year suggesting it’s a place worth visiting. Experienced sailors transport visitors to caves where the waters leading in reflect various shades of cyan and emerald green. It’s definitely a photo opportunity not to be missed. Trips take place all year round, weather permitting.

8. Valletta at Christmas

Building, Architectural Landmark

Like most capital cities, Valletta becomes a lot busier during the Christmas period. Aside from the great shops, simply visiting the capital over the festive season is an uplifting experience. Boasting festive lights, street performers, choirs, bands, entertainers and activities for children, Valletta’s celebrations start mid-December. With the winter evenings drawing in early, the festive lights become even more spectacular as the dark sets in and a big attraction is the annual Christmas tree made purely from Mdina glass baubles.

9. St Peter's Pool

Located in the area of Marsaxlokk, St Peter’s Pool is a dream for swimmers and snorkelers. Often described as a natural swimming pool, its strikingly clear, azure waters invite many to jump in from the rocks surrounding it, and with plenty of flat ledges available, holidaymakers can spend the day enjoying the scenery both under and above the water.

10. Ghadira Bay

Possibly the largest and most popular sandy beach in Malta , Ghadira Bay is located at the north of the island, in the vicinity of Mellieha. With its clear waters remaining reasonably shallow for almost a mile, it’s a perfect place for a paddle, a swim and for children to enjoy the Mediterranean. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available for hire daily and refreshment kiosks surround the area. Sit back and relax for a whole day, enjoying the glorious Maltese weather, clear waters and sounds of the gently lapping waves.

11. Rotunda of Mosta

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

The Rotunda of Mosta, or Mosta Dome, is the third largest unsupported dome in the world, designed by Giorgio Grognet de Vasse and built between 1833 and 1860 using local funds and donations. During World War II, a bomb dropped into the church and remained unexploded. A congregation of more than 300 people attending mass at the time escaped completely unharmed. A replica bomb is on display today.

12. The National Aquarium

A main focal point in St Paul’s Bay, the National Aquarium can be seen from miles away. Split into separate zones, each depicting different themes such as the Valletta Harbour, Roman Times and Tropical Oceans, and boasting a reptile section, the whole place provides visitors with the opportunity to witness some of the most unusual sealife and reptiles firsthand. The aquarium also holds daily events for adults and children to enjoy. With a bistro offering panoramic views on site, it’s definitely worth spending a few relaxing hours here.

13. Lascaris War Rooms

Historical Landmark

These war rooms were the headquarters of Malta’s defence operations during World War II. The underground operation rooms are set up exactly as they would have been, with a large original wall map still in place. See the desk occupied by General Eisenhower during Operation Husky (the plan to invade Sicily) from where it was all organised. In later years, the premises became the headquarters for the Royal Navy’s Mediterranean fleet.

14. Mdina Glass

15. Popeye Village

Amusement Park

Visit the original film set of the 1980 film, Popeye starring Robin Williams and spend the day in Sweethaven exploring each building, enjoying their pools, taking a boat ride, watching animators and having a bite to eat. Set in stunning surroundings, there are regular buses directly to the set with something for the whole family to enjoy. The set is open to visitors all year round.

16. Ta' Pinu Sanctuary

17. Mellieha Air Raid Shelters

Protecting villagers from the staggering amount of bombs that were dropped during World War II were these underground shelters. One of the largest air raid shelters on the island, with a length of more than 500m (1,670ft), these shelters were completely hand-dug. Families were allowed to apply for a permit to dig their own separate rooms, which are still visible today. Walk through the silence and eeriness of these shelters and experience the place that became a safe haven for many of the 3,842 Mellieha inhabitants and 1,117 refugees flooding to the village.

18. Blue Lagoon and Comino

In between Malta and Gozo lies the small island of Comino. Car-free and having only one hotel in its 2.2mi (3.5km) of space, the island is mostly uninhabited. Comino’s inlet of the Blue Lagoon attracts snorkelers, divers and day-trippers who fancy a dip. The salty, azure-blue, clear waters above a white sandy seabed make this place appear heavenly. It’s the perfect place to spend a day away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

19. St John's Co-Cathedral

Dedicated to St John the Baptist, this Roman Catholic Co-Cathedral was built between 1572 and 1577 for the Order of the Knights of St John. Baroque in style, this magnificent masterwork features a polychrome marble floor depicting angels and skeletons, ornately painted ceilings and many lavishly gilded features, expressing the wealth of the Order at the time. The adjoining oratory is home to two original masterpieces by Caravaggio as well as Flemish tapestries. A passport is needed for entry to see this architectural gem.

20. Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum

Only allowing 80 visitors a day, tickets need to be booked in advance for an allocated time slot to visit this prehistoric underground burial chamber. It was discovered accidentally in the early 1900s during construction work and dates back to around 4,000BCE to 2,500BCE. A Unesco World Heritage site, it is said to have had the remains of over 7,000 individuals dispersed between its different levels of chambers. With ochre-painted symbols still visible on the walls and carvings in the masonry, this eerie yet spectacular place was the discovery site of Malta’s now famous ‘Sleeping Lady’ sculpture.

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A blog about travel, events, life experiences, current affairs and other interesting items, 17 top-rated tourist attractions in malta.

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click here to view the WEB/mobile version – 17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Malta

In 2019, the website PlanetWare came up with the 17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Malta. There is a mix of cities, towns, beaches, islands, historical places and other locations in this list. I find that all of these 17 attractions are good enough for tourists to visit and thus I agree with this list.

List of the 17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Malta

• Valletta: Malta’s Capital City
• The Island of Gozo
• The Medieval Hilltop Town of Mdina
• Historical Attractions in Rabat
• Hal Saflieni Hypogeum: A Neolithic Cult Site
• Prehistoric Tarxien Temples
• Blue Lagoon, Island of Comino
• The Blue Grotto
• Breathtaking Views at Dingli Cliffs
• Golden Bay Beach
• Ghajn Tuffieha Bay and Gnejna Bay Beaches
• The Seaside Charm of Mellieha
• Hagar Qim Temples: A Prehistoric Megalithic Site
• Mnajdra Temples of the Maltese Bronze Age
• Siggiewi: A Traditional Maltese Village
• The Country Village of Zebbug
• Family Fun Times at Popeye Village

1. Valletta: Malta’s Capital City

The walled city was established in the 1500s on a peninsula by the Knights of St. John, a Roman Catholic order. It’s known for museums, palaces and grand churches. Baroque landmarks include St. John’s Co-Cathedral, whose opulent interior is home to the Caravaggio masterpiece “The Beheading of Saint John.”

2. The Island of Gozo

Gozo is an island in the Mediterranean Sea, one of 21 that make up the Maltese archipelago. Inhabited for thousands of years, it shows evidence of historic immigration and rule by the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Sicilians, French and British, among others. It’s known for its Neolithic Ġgantija Temple ruins, rural hiking paths, beaches and scuba-diving sites. 

3. The Medieval Hilltop Town of Mdina

4. Historical Attractions in Rabat

Rabat is a town in the Northern Region of Malta, with a population of 11,497 as of March 2014. It adjoins the ancient capital city of Mdina, and a north-western area formed part of the Roman city of Melite until its medieval retrenchment.

5. Hal Saflieni Hypogeum: A Neolithic Cult Site

The Hypogeum of Ħal Saflieni is a Neolithic subterranean structure dating to the Saflieni phase in Maltese prehistory, located in Paola, Malta. It is often simply referred to as the Hypogeum, literally meaning “underground” in Greek.

During excavations, archaeologists found the remains of some 7,000 human bodies. The bones helped researchers understand more about prehistoric burial rituals and how our ancestors celebrated death. But that’s not all. A number of these skulls had peculiar deformities, others showed signs of surgery, and stranger yet, a number of elongated skulls were found among them, causing a stir of debates and theories as to their origin.

6. Prehistoric Tarxien Temples

The Tarxien Temples are an archaeological complex in Tarxien, Malta. They date to approximately 3150 BC. The site was accepted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992 along with the other Megalithic temples on the island of Malta.

7. Blue Lagoon, Island of Comino

The Blue Lagoon Malta is a small lagoon with relatively shallow, azure-coloured water that’s located on the West coast of the island of Comino, between Malta and Gozo.

8. The Blue Grotto

The Blue Grotto refers to a number of sea caverns on the south east coast of Malta, a short distance off the fishermen’s harbour of Wied iż-Żurrieq limits of Qrendi, Malta

9. Breathtaking Views at Dingli Cliffs

Scenic, towering cliffs featuring panoramic views & a chapel, which marks the area’s highest point.

10. Golden Bay Beach

Golden Bay Malta is one of the most popular beaches on the Maltese Islands, both with Maltese and tourists alike. The bay is situated North West of Malta, very close to Ghajn Tuffieha Bay whilst further south there is Gnejna Bay.

11. Ghajn Tuffieha Bay and Gnejna Bay Beaches

The main part of Ġnejna Bay is easily reached by road via Mgarr. It offers a mixture of rocks, sand and pebbles. Boathouses are carved into the rocks on the south side of Ġnejna Bay. Watersports are prominent recreation in Ġnejna Bay, but its earlier history as a fisherman’s bay has not entirely vanished.

12. The Seaside Charm of Mellieha

Mellieħa is a large village or small town in the Northern Region of Malta. It has a population of 10,087 as of March 2014. Mellieħa is also a tourist resort, popular for its sandy beaches and natural environment. 

13. Hagar Qim Temples: A Prehistoric Megalithic Site

Ħaġar Qim is a megalithic temple complex found on the Mediterranean island of Malta, dating from the Ġgantija phase. The Megalithic Temples of Malta are among the most ancient religious sites on Earth, described by the World Heritage Sites committee as “unique architectural masterpieces.” 

14. Mnajdra Temples of the Maltese Bronze Age

Mnajdra is a megalithic temple complex found on the southern coast of the Mediterranean island of Malta. Mnajdra is approximately 500 metres from the Ħaġar Qim megalithic complex.

15. Siggiewi: A Traditional Maltese Village

Siġġiewi, also called by its title Città Ferdinand, is a city and a local council in the North Eastern Region of Malta. It is the third largest council in Malta by surface area, after Rabat and Mellieħa respectively. 

16. The Country Village of Zebbug

Żebbuġ, also known by its title Città Rohan, is a city in the Northern Region of Malta. It is one of the oldest towns in the country, and its population is 11,903 as of March 2014.

17. Family Fun Times at Popeye Village

Popeye Village Malta has grown from its days as a Film Set of the 1980 Musical Production ‘Popeye’ into one of the major tourist attractions in Malta.

Other links

Links of videos of malta part 1.

Secluded beach in Malta The beauty of Ġnejna Bay, Malta Chapel of the Immaculate Conception, Kunċizzjoni, Malta Miġra l-Ferħa & Ras id-Dawwara, Malta (with subtitles) Amazing and breathtaking views from Dingli cliffs, Malta (with subtitles) St. Mary Magdalene Chapel, Dingli, Malta (with subtitles) Ħal Xluq Chapel, Siġġiewi, Malta (with subtitles) Il-Kappella tal-Madonna tal-Providenza, Malta (with subtitles) Salib tal-Għolja – Laferla Cross, Malta (with subtitles) Our Lady of Girgenti – Madonna tal-Girgenti, Malta (with subtitles) Country Side: Kunċizzjoni, Malta – breathtaking views (with subtitles) Fomm ir-Riħ, Malta (with subtitles) Chadwick Lakes, Malta – Wied il-Qlejgħa (with subtitles) Church of St Matthew, Qrendi, San Mattew tal-Maqluba (with subtitles) Il-Maqluba, Qrendi, Malta (with subtitles) Filfla as seen from Fawwara, Siggiewi (Malta) with subtitles Wied il-Mielaħ Window, Gozo (with subtitles) Ras il-Miġnuna, Malta (also known as Ras il-Ħamrija) with subtitles Pixxina Naturali – Malta (natural inland sea pool) Imġiebaħ Bay, Malta

Links of Videos of Malta Part 2

Għar Lapsi – relaxing and beautiful sunset in October Slugs Bay, Malta (Daħlet ix-Xilep in Maltese) December Saturday morning in Valletta during COVID19 pandemic Iconic places in Malta and Gozo 🌺 🌼 San Anton gardens, Malta 🌼 🌺 Sunsets as seen from Siġġiewi, Malta 🌧️ ☔ Malta – Before the first rain in September 2020 🌧️ ☔ Another Blue Lagoon – secluded beach in Malta Sunset at St. Paul’s Bay, Malta Dingli Cliffs – Rdum ta’ l-Iħfar and Rdum tal-Qaws Għar Lapsi – restaurants, park, boathouses, police station and reverse osmosis. The sea at Ghar Lapsi, Malta on 30 May 2020 Exploring iż-Żurrieq by day – Iż-Żurrieq, Malta Sea waves at Ghar Lapsi, Malta Exploring Siġġiewi by day – Siġġiewi, Malta Rabat, Malta – A quick visit to Rabat Buskett Gardens, Malta (no music in the first part of the video). Off the beaten path from Dingli Cliffs to Fawwara, Malta Sea Cave at Xaqqa Valley, Malta Good Friday Haz-Zebbug 2015 – Gimgha l-Kbira Haz-Zebbug 2015 If you could see this Virus, would you still go out?? – Malta Blue Grotto and Wied iz-Zurrieq Malta Good Friday Haz-Zebbug 2014 – Gimgha l-Kbira Haz-Zebbug 2014 2013 Good Friday Procession LUQA – Ġimgħa l-Kbira Ħal Luqa

Links of Videos of Gozo

Early morning in Marsalforn, Gozo – beautiful sunrise Wied il-Għasri, Gozo Walking the Għar Qawqla coast in Gozo Cittadella, Gozo Blue Hole, Dwejra, Gozo Amazing sunrise in Marsalforn and Qbajjar, Gozo, Malta Dwejra Inland Sea, Gozo, Malta Xatt L-Aħmar, Gozo, Malta – Swimming with jellyfish (Mauve stinger and Fried Egg Jellyfish) Xwejni bay and fortification, Gozo, Malta Gozo Salt Pans Ta’ Pinu National Shrine – Gozo, Malta Xlendi Bay, Gozo, Malta MV Nikolaos – Gozo Ferry Snorkeling in Xwejni Bay and Qbajjar Bay, Gozo Ċittadella by night, Gozo – The Citadel Wied il-Għasri, Gozo Mġarr harbour as seen from the ferry. Gozo.

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main tourist attractions in malta

Our top recommendations on places to visit.

Malta located in the centre of the Mediterranean Sea has a lot to offer as tourist attractions for those who wish to look for an experience ideal of a Mediterranean culture.

We have put up a selection of the most popular attractions that visitors will wish to see when coming here among us. From the capital city Valletta and Mdina the old medieval capital, to some of the oldest temples in the world. Not forgetting to mention the Blue Grotto and the Blue Lagoon on Comino.

We encourage you to have a good look as these are the top.

Disclaimer: On our website, you will find affiliate links from which we receive a small commission.

Village Feasts - Our unique way of Celebrating

An unforgettable experience to be part of the Maltese traditions and customs of the village feasts celebrations . They are held in honour of the patron saint’s statue with religious functions inside the church. They decorated the village core with coloured lighting, banners, and decorated columns. Not least with colourful displays of fireworks. All is spread over five to seven days.

roam the old capital mdina

They surrounded the old capital of Mdina with formidable bastions. Today still holds its character of a medieval capital with palaces, narrow streets, cobbled stone streets. It attracts so many people every day. An excellent best free things to see and do.

Today it attracts tourists to experience the Mdina Dungeons, museums and the Mdina Experience. Flavour the excellent food at the restaurants and cafes with their old charm and beautiful views of the island.

discover the history of valletta

Strategically between two natural harbours, the Knights of St. John were wise to build the capital with incredible fortifications to withstand invasions. The grandeur of the knights is evident in their European nobility and richness, which resulted in a splendid capital. Today it is known as ‘an open-air museum’. Listed with UNESCO as a World Heritage Site , has succeeded to attract many visitors to its 320 monuments.

The Blue Grotto Can Only Be seen By Boat

The natural beauty of the Blue Grotto located in the southeast part of the island should be a definite must-see for foreigners visiting the island. You can see this amazing grotto via local small fishing boat trips taking around 25 minutes departing from the small natural inlet at ‘Wied Iz-Zurrieq’.

The inlet area is significant for swimming and snorkelling. A great dive site 140 meters from the shore, the Um El Faroud ship artificial reef was scuttled in 1998. Enjoy the variety of food at several restaurants lining the road leading to the boat trips.

rent a car in malta

The National Sanctuary dedicated to Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu on the outskirts of Għarb on the island of Gozo . It is the shrine that gives thanks to Karmni Grima of Gharb who heard the voice of Our Lady at the small chapel that today stands at the back of this new sanctuary.

It is one of the main landmarks must-see while in Gozo with breath-taking scenic views. Even if you are not part of the Catholic religion, it is a place where you can find yourself surrounded by nature and the beauty of the basilica’s architecture is a splendour that everyone can appreciate.

Cittadella crowning a flat topping-hill

The Cittadella stands on a natural rocky plateau in the centre of the islands. It has been occupied since the Bronze Age. This site stands high above the city of Victoria, the capital of Gozo. It was always a place of refuge from invaders, today surrounded with high bastions majestically the first things you will see even before reaching the capital.

This is another must visit, recently completely renovated with a visitor’s centre in the large underground water cisterns. Victoria offers you accommodation, restaurants, shops, street market and the beauty of the Gozitan life.

Hypogeum - One of the World’s Best Preserved Prehistoric Sites

The Hypogeum in Malta , also known as Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum is one of the world’s best preserved prehistoric sites and one of Malta's oldest burial grounds. They are excavated in rock for burial purposes. Today they are open to the public where you can see at first hand these unique 6,000-year-old underground burial chambers. 

The Blue Lagoon – The Caribbean-Style Surroundings

Comino , the tiny island between Malta and Gozo just measuring 2.5 square kilometres attracts swimmer and sunbathers for it Blue Lagoon Bay . This very popular bay is a destination for daily boat trips with its turquoise waters.

It is sandwiched between Comino and a smaller uninhabited island Cominotto. Swim across the narrow channel to climb to the top of Cominotto to see the caves and magnificent views.

Many day and sunset cruises come to the lagoon from Sliema, Bugibba and Mellieha Bay . You can also arrive to Cirkewwa by public transport and cross over by a small ferry boat in 15 minutes.

Mosta rotunda with the gigantic dome

It is said that the Mosta parish church, better known as the Mosta rotunda, has the third largest unsupported dome in the world and one of the most outstanding churches on the island. It is a Roman Catholic Church dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary into Heaven. It was constructed with a neoclassical portico based on that of the Pantheon of Rome.

The dome, with a diameter of 54 metres and a height of 60 metres, was also hit by a bomb dropped during World War II, which passed through the ceiling but did not explode. Explore this beautiful church, go inside and marvel yourself.

The Megalithic Temples of Malta and Gozo

Through the Megalithic temples , Malta has hard evidence that these were the first inhabitants. There have been several monuments on both islands, but few survived time. Today, six of them are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The most visited locations in Malta are the Hagar Qim temples , Mnajdra temples  and the Tarxien temples . On Gozo the Ggantija temples . Through their visitor's centres, you will get a great insight into the temple builders and their lives.

Undoubtedly, these are a must visit locations during your holiday in Malta. They are prehistoric monumental buildings for being unique architectural masterpieces constructed during the 4th and 3th millennium BC.

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Top 16 AWESOME Places to Visit in Malta

Amidst the calm and serene Mediterranean sea and the bright blue skies, sits an archipelago called the Republic of Malta. It’s a group of three main islands in the form of Malta proper, Gozo and Comino. With the recent boom in the tourism industry and travel becoming more comfortable than before, this small yet densely populated country has carved a niche for itself.

It is ranked as one of the top places to visit in 2018 more because of its sunny weather and the sea throughout the year. This Malta travel guide will take you through the famous and must travel and the best places to visit in Malta . The island has a mythical charm to it brought together by its stunning prehistoric temples and medieval architecture.

Some of the world’s oldest churches and museums can be found on this tiny isle. Historians view it as a great destination to learn about the Vikings and the rulers of decades past. Since the city turns out to be a melting pot of different cultures, it offers a unique and vast culinary experience . The food lovers can very much enjoy the unique Maltese food, as it consists of tastes from all its nearby countries and some old civilizations that are part of Malta currently.

Malta has a plethora of family-fun attractions that stretch across its sun-kissed beaches. The city is a feast to the senses with its picturesque locales set against the palm tree-fringed landscape. The country lives up to its image of offering lazy holidays. To make sure you don’t miss out on the country’s best sights, sounds and flavors; here is a guide to the best places to see in Malta.

So, to escape the wrath of Spring upon me (hello pollen allergies) I decided to visit Malta and Gozo to get a bit of sunshine and have the luxury of inhaling the smell of fresh seawater instead of pollen infested fresh air in Finland . It was certainly a last-minute decision (as always) but it was surely a perfect one. Malta was a new country for me and I explored many places in Malta and the trip turned out to be an experience of a lifetime!

Here’s the list of the top places to visit in Malta

Valletta – the capital city of Malta

One of Malta points of interest and the island’s capital, Valletta dates back to the 1500s. No trip to Malta is complete without a visit to Valletta, as it stands out to be one of the most authentic capital cities of Europe . The city is squeezed into one square kilometer of space.

The town is named after its founder, the respected Grand Master of the Order of St. John, Jean Parisot de la Valette. Despite its small size, Valletta is packed with sites of historical significance, with buildings dating back to the 16th century.

The World Heritage website of UNESCO describes it as ‘‘one of the most historic areas in the world”. The city is a proud testimony to the Knights of Malta who were granted the Maltese islands by the King of Spain in 1530.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Valletta

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Mdina and Rabat – the old capital and silent city of Malta

This ancient capital of Malta, known as the Silent city commands the rural skyline. It ’s a fortified medieval town enclosed in bastions with an extraordinary mix of medieval and baroque architecture .

This little town is famous for some of the most beautiful churches and cathedrals, the most important of them being Cathedral of the Conversion of St. Paul. Perched on the hilltop, with its dwindling alleys the town seems to have frozen in time.

Some of the places of interest here are St Paul’s Cathedral, National Museum of Natural History and National Aquarium, Palazzo Falson (Norman House) to name a few.

Before they moved the capital city title to Valetta, Mdina was the old capital of Malta. An impressive ancient walled city for the nobles that dates back to 60 A.D, there is proof that the city has been on the island for a very long time.

Talk about historical, eh? Walking on the cobblestones of Mdina and inhaling positive vibes the air is filled with, and that also made me wonder, who were the ancient people who once walked on these roads? It was such an experience because the whole city will transport you back in time, or at least makes you feel so.

Definitely one of the must-see places in Malta.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Mdina

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St. Julian’s and Paceville – where the young never sleeps

Just about 9km from Valletta, the capital of Malta , will take you to St. Julian’s and Paceville – the place where life happens after 10 pm. Possibly the busiest place on the whole island and as well where most tourist flocks their way in for some fun.

I was in St. Julian’s twice, once during the afternoons on our way to Valletta and second for a night out sinceBuġibba only has few bars open after 10 pm and are often playing songs from the ’60s. I wanted to see the nightlife in Malta and boy was I not disappointed!

St. Julian’s at night turns into a wild scene of tourists from around the world either they are there to polish their English or just passing by, just like me. There are tons of different bars and restaurants to go to which are all unique and your needs will surely be satisfied with no problem.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Paceville

Read also:   Top Tourist Attractions and Things to do in Malta

Marsaxlokk – a traditional fishing village

Located in the southern part of the island, Marsaxlokk is a fishing village where you’ll find tons of colorful boats and as well the beautiful Mediterranean sea!

You must check out the Sunday fish market, but you have to be early – it is all worth it though so it should be on your list of things to do in Malta.

Plus, Marsaxlokk is a beautiful coastal area you’ll not regret visiting so might as well do that on a Sunday where you’ll see local fishermen with their fresh catch.

If you have an apartment, you can even buy the product to cook yourself. We didn’t purchase anything since Buġibba was a bit of a ride away from Marsaxlokk and it can be hot in the afternoons to carry fresh fish with you.

 Where to stay: Best hotels in Marsaxlokk

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Popeyes Village – have a bit of fun and be a kid again!

Popeye Village, also known as Sweethaven Village, is the ideal place for a family with children. It is situated just off Mellieha Bay, so it’s a great place to visit in Malta before and after or whilst spending your time at the beach sides.

The Village is the actual set used by Paramount Pictures and Walt Disney Productions to shoot famous comic strips based on the film by E.C Segar. The village has a lot to offer regarding attractions catering to different seasons. Summers are known for Water Trampolines, Boat rides, and Play Pool.

I loved Popeye, and it was a surprise to me that they filmed it in Malta! I took a bus from Buġibba to Mellieħa which took about 20 minutes and was transported to a whole new world – one of the best places in Malta that only usually exists in my imagination.

Popeyes Village in Malta is not only for kids guys but also for adults who are kids inside. If you’re so it should be on your list of places to visit in Malta. I had a blast while there! I don’t even know if kids today know Popeyes, but I wish they do.

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Comino Island – where you can swim to clear blue waters of the blue lagoon

Comino Island, one of the best places in Malta and was the highlight of my trip. The whole island is a piece of gem and one of Malta’s points of interest! I scored a place in a party boat where there’s an open bar included in your entrance fee.

The entire island is only 3.5 sq.km, sandwiched between Malta and Gozo and is uninhabited by anyone. You go there with a boat, but you’re not allowed to stay for the night unless you’re staying at the only functioning hotel in the island. I almost spent a night at Comino because I almost missed the boat back! Fun times.

Anyways, Malta as a country is famous for the Blue Lagoon, the gorgeous clear waters of the Mediterranean with a lush turquoise color that would not only make your soul happy but also the mermaid in you because you can swim there too, so bring your swimming suits!

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Gozo Island – Malta’s sister island

The north island of Malta lies a small rustic island called the ‘Island of Gozo,’ known more for its rugged beaches and rural landscape.

It is a perfect place to enjoy and relax on vacation while still discovering the cultural Malta attractions . Gozo island is perhaps the most idyllic among the Maltese Islands because of its pastoral landscape, white beaches and quiet towns with dwindling roads.

The island is a reflection of how Malta used to be once, with its slower pace, rhythmic music, greenery and fishing being at the core of the Gozo Island. Gozo’s must-see attractions include the Citadella, Ggantija Temples, Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary and the Dwejra area.

In Gozo you find what the island is famous for – the Azure Window, made familiar through the Game of Throne series, during Daenerys and Khal Drogo’s wedding. The Island of Gozo is accessible by ferry from Cirkewwa on the Island of Malta.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Gozo

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Blue Grotto

Another of Malta’s most beautiful and marvelous sights is the Blue Grotto. Drawing thousands of tourists through all year, it’s a series of sea caverns on the south coast of the main island.

The spectacular coastline together with its pristine scenery is a feast to any nature lover. The sea has a vibrant blue color caused by beautiful shining sunlight entering from the caves to illuminate enchanting phosphorescent underwater marine life.

The Grotto is famous mainly because of the unusual chemical structure of the water that comprises a lot of different minerals – that is why the sea has this unusual bright blue color. It is so pure that you can see every stone and shell at the bottom. The depth of the sea is approximately 4-5 meters. You can easily hire a guided boat and enjoy the colorful traditional fish boats known as luzzus.

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Sprawling to the south of Mdina is the delightful town of Rabat. The old Arabic meaning of Rabat is a suburb which is how the town is situated now, lying just outside of Mdina. The area is a just walkable distance from Mdina with plenty of buildings and homes.

The town is more known for its medieval churches, monasteries and numerous catacombs which makes the city more attractive and appealing for travelers. Il-Kastell is also among the best places to visit in Malta for its 15th-century fortress.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Rabat

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Hal Saflieni Hypogeum

The Hypogeum was excavated in 2500 B.C, using cyclopean rigging to lift massive limestone blocks. It was a giant structure: its halls, chambers, and passages, immaculately hewn out of the rock, some 500 sq meters.

Dating back between 3600BC to 3000BC, when it was first discovered, the skeletons of over 7,000 people were found near the inside chambers at the entrance. Today only six skulls have survived.

It is said that only half of its entrance has been discovered and the rest of the dimensions remain uncertain. Hal Saflieni Hypogeum remains a favorite Malta point of interest for many historians. During the excavation, the archaeologists were able to collect a lot of material concerning numerous human bones. They seem to suggest that the burial ritual had many procedures involved.

The area provided a lot of wealth regarding the artifacts collected from there. These artifacts included pottery vessels with beautiful intricate designs, carved animals and birds and also beads and amulets.

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Dingli Cliffs

If you want to explore the highest area of Malta, the little cliff situated on the western part is called the Dingli Cliffs. It’s at a height of 253 meters above sea level. It is an attractive, quiet village where its edges, the cliffs, make a perpendicular plunge into the Mediterranean Sea.

It is one of the sought after places for tourists visiting the Island, looking for some picturesque scenic walks along with some astonishing views of the Filfa and the Mediterranean sea.

It is also possible to drive along the edge of the cliff for some distance. Because of its idyllic location, the sunsets in Malta are genuinely breathtaking. The beaming rays of the sun falling on to the azure waters create a magical experience worth viewing.

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Golden Bay Beach

Another famous beach area in Maltese Island is Golden Bay. As its name indicates, the sand is gold in color, and it is a favorite beach among the tourists. The beach is surrounded by the cliff on one side and the blue waters on the other, providing a picturesque view.

The beach often gets packed during the evenings with families joining together, to view one of the most spectacular sunsets in the Maltese island. The beach also happens to be a favorite spot for beach parties and barbeques.

There is a little part of this beach that is privately operated by a five-star resort that offers all the services and luxury amenities including transport facilities for the public.

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Mellieħa

Mellieħa is one of the northernmost villages of Malta and overlooks Malta’s largest sandy beach called Mellieha Bay. Mellieha is one of Malta’s most attractive tourist and summer resorts place.

The place stands out for its beautiful sandy beaches and blue sea. Malta’s largest sandy beach, Għadira, is situated here known more among families with small children, as the water is shallow for a considerable distance from the shore.

In a short span of time Mellieha has established itself as a destination for all seasons because of its lush green valleys and crystal clear seas.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Mellieħa

Hagar Qim Temples

The temple of Hagar Qim, excavated for the first time in 1839, is dating back in 3600BC – 3200BC. The temple is overlooking the blue sea from the hilltop and is also the islet for Filfla.

The temples have a spectacular view of large massive stones across the bay area. One of the bigger size stone is currently being used in the Maltese temples that weigh around seven tonnes. From an aerial view, this temple is in the shape of a giant paw.

The temple has many small mushroom-shaped altars carved out of stone. The original altars were taken to the Museum of Archaeology in Valletta and replaced with imitations which are now found at Hagar Qim today.

The temple has yielded numerous essential artifacts such as the beautifully carved pillar altar, table altars, and different standing and seated figurines that are now on display at the National Museum at Valletta.

Zebbug or Città Rohan is one of the oldest towns in Malta with a population of around 13,000 people. The word Zebbug means olives in Maltese and the city had large olive spinneys around the town center in the earlier times.

That’s how the town got its name. Zebbug held great importance next in line to Mdina and Valletta during the times of the Knights of the Order of St John.

If you think what to see in Malta in Zebbug, the majestic church dedicated to St Philip of Agira, which was built in 1380, remains to be one of the top tourists’ places in this island.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Zebbug

Fort St Angelo, Vittoriosa

Visit Malta for its rich historical background going back to the medieval period and to reflect the story straight into your site is Fort St Angelo in Vittoriosa.

Going back to 1530 the fort served as the principal residence of the famous Grand Master until the year 1571. The restored heritage section has been opened for the public, and it offers you incredible views of the harbor. There are also multimedia exhibitions that bring back this historic fort alive.

To conclude your trip to these fantastic places to visit in Malta , you can say Maltese land is an amazing place to travel for culture, sun, sea and many tourist attractions all year round. Sightseeing in Malta will let you click many men made and natural wonders for your photo album. So, if anyone wants to travel to Malta, think no more and get ready for another stamp on your passports.

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Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

16 thoughts on “Top 16 AWESOME Places to Visit in Malta”

Lovely place! I hope to visit the Popeye Village with the family someday! I should probably consider the same season when we travel, as you were there, pollen allergy is one reason why I dont enjoy spring in Finland.

The pollen is the worse! Hope you guys get to visit Malta one day 🙂

My husband and are coming for a week in mid Feb for a 71st birthday treat. Should we stay on Gozo and hire a car or stay on Malta Island for best experience?

Hi, Vikki! I recommend staying on the main island as there’s more to see and more things to do and you won’t need to ride the ferry every day to check out these places. It would take you only one day to explore Gozo and Comino! That said, renting a car is great if you’re planning to explore a lot and don’t want to wait for the buses (they are unreliable and often late).

Evan Kristine

First of all thank you for publishing such beautiful but also historical photos of Malta.

I would like to ask you however, as I am certainly interested in acquireing a copy. Are these photos included in a book that one can buy?

Thank you and kind regrds

Tony Chircop Qormi, Malta

What was the name of the tour with the partyboat? Thanks for the usefull information!!

Hi Lore! Unfortunately I don’t know the name of the party boat, at the time of my visit I wasn’t really documenting my visit as I was not a blogger yet. But one thing I can assure you is that there are tons of this in Malta! We just found and bought our tour randomly from a local tour company two blocks from our hotel.

My husband and I just spent five days in Malta. It is a beautiful holiday spot, even though many popular areas were very crowded at this peak time of year. We created several YouTube videos featuring advice about food, tours, and things to do. Our favourite was the Game of Thrones Tour, which I have reviewed on my blog and YouTube channel. However, we would not stay in Valletta again. Although it has many excellent restaurants, it has so many stairs and steep streets, we didn’t feel that paired very well with night life. But, we would certainly return to Malta for another holiday for so many reasons!

That is so lovely to hear guys! I am dreading to head back, as well 🙂 Malta is so special!

I headed to Malta recently and definitely agree with you on Comino Island and Popeye Village! Such fun places to visit 🙂

Glad you loved it, Milly!

Me and my son went Malta last year on his birthday. Most of the Hotels are wheelchair friendly and transportation as well. WE had a great time there and for once we actually felt normal. Which is priceless for us.

That is one great thing to know! I will make sure to let our readers know about this helpful tip!

Malta looks pretty fantastic. Especially Popeyes Village. Thanks for sharing this. It’ll be really helpful when I finally make it there!

Hi, Mike! Glad you enjoyed this list! Malta is one of the best place to really release some stress 🙂

Wow!!! beautiful photos, Malta is a wonderful place to visit absolutely

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