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A local’s guide to Malta: 10 top tips

The island has been at the heart of Mediterranean history and culture for centuries, and it can be enjoyed once more now it’s on the green list

Malta claims to be the first EU country to have achieved herd immunity. Vaccinations recently extended to all over-16s and 58.6% of the population have had two jabs.

Since 2020, 420 people have died of the virus, and the country has not recorded a death since 26 May. Neither quarantine nor a PCR test is required for passengers travelling to Malta from the UK, but they must be fully vaccinated.

Museums and tourist sites, shops, restaurants and cafes are open, and allow tables of six people. Cinemas and theatres reopened on 7 June, but bars and nightclubs are still closed, and boat parties are not allowed.

Masks are mandatory for everyone over three years of age in public spaces, but from 1 June mask-wearing on beaches was advised but no longer required. Maltese health minister Chris Fearne said masks would cease to be mandatory outdoors from 1 July for vaccinated people, as long as cases remain low.

Valletta by night

Valletta used to be like a ghost town at night. Today, it is different – or rather it will be once the pandemic recedes and visitors return. In normal times the streets are full after sunset with live music and happy Mediterranean chatter all around. The grid system used by the knights to build the city creates what feel like parallel nightlife realities. Republic Street is imposing and distinct with exquisite cafes and restaurants; Merchant Street is laid-back leading down to the covered market; but walk down Straight Street and you would walk back in time, like the British sailors did in the past, and enjoy bar-hopping down to the Gut. Look out for the old street signage along the way.

Festivals in Malta

There are a lot. Before you visit the island it’s worth checking the Malta Tourism Authority’s website and festivals.mt to see what’s on, and to note that this year, until further notice, all festivals will be virtual.

The Strawberry festival , Notte Bianca in Valletta, Karnival ta’ Malta , the Malta jazz festival , the Valletta baroque festival , the Farsons beer festival , the Delicata wine festival , the Fireworks festival , and the Three Palaces are just some of the events over the year. My favourite though is BirguFest and its culmination Birgu by Candlelight, which is an extraordinary experience. One of Malta’s oldest cities, Birgu (also called Vittoriosa) is magically lit by thousands of candles adding a romantic and mystical touch to its medieval houses, auberges and palaces connected by winding alleys. The festival features historical re-enactments, open museums and churches, exhibitions and installations alongside concerts, theatre and laser light spectacles.

Limestone Heritage Park and Gardens

In Malta you’re surrounded by limestone, from the old cities of Mdina and Valletta, through the megalithic temples of Hagar Qim, Mnajdra and the Hypogeum, to the ornaments on the traditional Maltese townhouses. The limestone has been instrumental in preserving the history of the island. At the family-run Limestone Heritage Park and Gardens , in Siggiewi village, visitors can trace the use and role of this resource throughout the ages. Don’t miss the stone-carving and sculpting, where a visitor can spend time working on a limestone souvenir. The Farmer’s Lunch , in the peaceful garden of the estate, is a great way to try Maltese gbejna cheese, homemade pasta and rabbit dishes and traditional desserts. Younger visitors will enjoy the heritage park: there’s space to run around in, and an animal petting zoo. €8.10 adult, €5.40 student, €2.70 child with online discount, limestoneheritage.com

Casa Rocca Piccola, Valletta

Not your usual museum, this is the only privately owned palazzo open to the public in Valletta. It exhibits unusual pieces of furniture, memorabilia, family paintings and rare medical instruments from the Knights’ Sacra Infermeria in Valletta. A museum by day and a stately home by night, its rooms bring the history of the Knights Hospitaller and the Maltese nobility to life. The palace was built in the 16th century for Don Pietro La Rocca, an admiral of the knights and is the ancestral abode of the Marquis Nicholas de Piro family. Today, it also houses a boutique B&B, with a peaceful garden and a cheerful macaw named Kiku. Tour groups are sometimes taken around by the marquis himself . Regular hourly tours are held throughout the week. casaroccapiccola.com

Caffe Cordina, Valletta

This is the most beautiful cafe in Valletta and something of an institution. I love going there to have an espresso with one of its signature sweets. Relaxing in the sun at Pjazza Regina in front of the statue commemorating the golden jubilee of Queen Victoria and the baroque National Library is bliss. The cafe was established in Cospicua in 1837 and moved to Valletta in 1944. The building known as the Casa del Commun Tesoro or the Treasury during the rule of the Order of the Knights of St John in Malta was used by the British for various public offices and it was later converted into the Grand Hotel. The cafe’s eclectic interior decor and the vaulted ceiling embellished with paintings by the Maltese painter Giuseppe Cali add to the special character of the place. caffecordina.com

Meridiana Wine Estate, tour and wine tasting

About 30 years ago the production of world-class wines in Malta seemed like an ambitious goal. Some considered the investment risky, others thought it was doomed from the start. Today, one looks back at the legacy of a brave venture that explored the potential for high-quality wine production in Malta. The Ta’Qali wine estate, near Mdina, was planted in 1994 on the site of an airfield used by the RAF during the second world war, using a British-built herringbone system of irrigation. Success was achieved with the first harvest in 1996, which Meridiana sold within weeks. Its wines are now internationally established. My preferred Maltese wines are, of the reds, Nexus – a merlot, and Celsius – a cabernet sauvignon. Of the whites, Baltis, from the moscato grape, is excellent. Wine-tasting is held on Meridiana’s panoramic terrace overlooking its vineyard or in the courtyard near the cellars. A tour includes a visit to the fermentation-hall and underground cellar, both within the picturesque Maltese farmhouse. Wine tasting and tours at meridiana.com.mt

Taste of History at the Maritime Museum of Malta, Birgu

This museum gives visitors the opportunity to dine inside the museum itself. The atmosphere is special, the menu exquisite, and unique – as historians and chefs have researched 18th-century documents to find foreign influences, ingredients, spices and eating habits from the menus used by the knights. The Maltese fruit and vegetables used are grown by local farmers, the sausages are made by the butcher round the corner strictly following traditional methods and the in-house chefs follow the authentic recipes. This is a dining experience like no other. The building is a former bakery from the British period in Birgu, one of the three cities just across the Grand Harbour from Valletta. Maritime museum, heritagemalta.org . More about Taste of History on Facebook

Lascaris War Rooms

Below the fortifications of Malta’s capital city Valletta, this complex of tunnels and chambers hold fascinating secrets from the second world war. Built by the British military, the war rooms housed the allied war HQ, which played a crucial role in the defence of the island and the coordination of Operation Husky – the invasion of Sicily. Named after Giovanni Paolo Lascaris, a 17th-century grand master of the knights of Malta, who built a garden on the site and fortifications across the island , the war rooms received communications from all radar stations and mapped the aerial and naval movements around the islands. After the war the Lascaris rooms were used as the headquarters of the Royal Navy’s Mediterranean Fleet. Climbing up the stairs of the bastion takes you to the Upper Barrakka Garden for the spectacular views of the Grand Harbour. Adult €13, student €11, under-16 €6, open Mon-Sat 10am-4.30pm, lascariswarrooms.com

National Community Art Museum (Muza), Valletta

Flagged by the Guardian Travel as one of 13 must-see new European museums , Muza opened in 2018, in a building that was once the seat of the Italian knights of the Order of St John. The site offers a chance to explore an auberge in which the knights lived during their stay on the island. The grand baroque entrance, the courtyard, the main staircase and the halls were rebuilt with contemporary material to expose intriguing features from the late 16th-century architecture. As a national community museum one of its missions is to make art accessible to the public; Muza does this by presenting contrasting artworks by old masters and contemporaries. The Masterpieces at Muza exhibition, currently on show, displays 13 old masterpieces from a private collection, including paintings by Rubens, François Boucher, Leonardo da Vinci and Giovanni Bellini. €10 adult, €7.50 students and people aged 60-plus, €5.50 children under 11, not open on Tuesdays, muza.mt

Boat trips and dramatic views

Whenever I can I always take the water taxi service across the Grand Harbour from Valletta to the Three Cities (Birgu, Senglea and Cospicua) and back by a traditional boat. The local dghajsa was built in the 17th century for that purpose. Used to ferry passengers connecting the harbour towns and also for taking passengers off the arriving ships, the boats were the main means of transportation in the harbour areas. The crossing takes 10 minutes and costs €2. Tourists can opt for a harbour cruise for €8pp. The real thrill is to feel the waves among the imposing views of the bastions of Valletta, Fort St Angelo, Fort Ricasoli and the grandeur of one of Europe’s largest natural harbours.

Fra Nikola Soukmandjiev is a diplomat, priest and tour guide

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Solo Travel in Malta: A Conclusive Guide (Updated 2022)

On my second ever solo trip, I spent six days in Malta and I loved every second of it. Now, I want to share my knowledge about this Mediterranean island with you. This is my Malta solo travel guide.

In the early days of my blog, I wrote a blog post about my time as a solo traveller in Malta . But now, I realise that this article was a narrative rather than a blog post that was useful to my readers, so I wanted to write this for the people who want to pursue solo travel in Malta themselves.

Note: this post includes a downloadable 6-day solo Malta itinerary! Subscribe below to get it to your mailbox.

Before we go any further, why don’t you take a look at this Malta travel video I made when I was there in 2017?

Table of contents

Malta travel information, how to get to malta.

• Rabat & Mdina
• Gozo & Comino
• Miscellaneous

Where to stay in Malta

Solo travel in malta.

• Solo travel in Malta: Tips and tricks
• Free pdf itinerary

Malta is a small nation-state located in the Mediterranean Ocean, made up of a three-island archipelago. The main island, Malta, is the biggest one and houses the country’s capital, Valletta. The other islands are called Gozo and Comino.

• Malta inhabitants : 433,212
• Capital of Malta : Valletta
• Malta languages : Maltese and English
• Climate in Malta : Mediterranean (mild winters and hot summers)
• Malta currency : euro
• Malta time zone : UTC+1 (winter) and UTC+2 (summer)

Now, a few frequently asked questions to get the most commonly Googled queries out of the way.

• How much does it cost to travel to Malta?

Including expenses like transport and accommodation, you’ll probably need to budget about 50 USD per day when visiting during high season.

(In Malta, high season is between June and August)

• Is solo travel in Malta safe?

Malta is very safe for solo travellers. The locals are friendly and speak English, there’s a vast network for public transport and there is a low crime rate throughout the island.

• What is Malta known for?

Malta is mostly famous for its great diving spots, stunning historical architecture and its nature, which has been used in big movie and TV show productions (like Game of Thrones, World War Z and The Da Vinci Code).

The main way to get to Malta is by plane. Most airplanes to Malta will land on Malta International Airport (also sometimes referred to as Luqa Airport).

This airport is served by many budget carriers like Ryanair, WizzAir, EasyJet and Norwegian. It’s also a hub for Air Malta.

International flights to Malta usually connect through a European hub, like Frankfurt (Lufthansa flights) or London (easyJet flights).

Flights to Malta

Finding flights as a solo traveller is easier than when you’re travelling with other people. After all, you only need one seat – duh.

My favourite websites to find flights are Google Flights , Momondo , Expedia , Cheap Flights and Skyscanner .

Ferry to Malta

If you are unable or not willing to take a flight to Malta, there is another option. Two companies regularly operate ferries between Italy and Malta.

Virtu Ferries and Grimaldi Lines operate ferries from Catania to Valletta and Virtu Ferries also operates ferries from Pozzallo to Malta.

Check out their websites for more information.

Be advised that ferries often tend to be more expensive than flights with low-cost operators.

What to do in Malta

Skip to the next section: Where to stay in Malta

The best things to do in Malta will take you more than just a few days to cross off your list.

Below, you’ll find some of my favourite activities and places to visit in Malta, grouped by category. Keep in mind that I spent six days there, so if you have more time, you can add more activities to your travel itinerary .

Here are 20 things you have to do in Malta as a solo traveller.

What to do in Valletta

Valletta is an awesome place for solo travel in Malta. Although it’s quite small, there’s more to do than meets the eye. Here are some of my favourite things to do in Valletta.

Stroll through Valletta Old Town

Valletta, Europe’s smallest capital, has centuries of history packed into its historical old town. And – best of all – this history is influenced by its Mediterranean, Arab, British, Italian and Castilian heritage.

The Maltese capital is renowned for its colourful balconies that tower over narrow streets and its small, independent shops.

Walk around this area for an hour or so without having any real plan. Soak everything in.

Bask in St John’s Co-Cathedral

Unlike any church or cathedral I’ve ever seen, St John’s Co-Cathedral is a real baroque feast for the eyes.

The inside of the cathedral, which was constructed in 1577, is plated in gold and houses many Baroque artworks and a fascinating ornate marble floor. The most impressive feat in this cathedral, though, is one of Caravaggio’s best-known paintings: the Beheading of John the Baptist.

Admission is €10 for adults and €7.50 for students and seniors. This price also includes an audio guide and a visit to the museum.

Walk along the Valletta Seafront

One of my favourite parts of solo travel in Malta was the Valletta Seafront. Finding your way to the water through paths that aren’t on Google Maps to walk along the fishermen is truly a unique experience.

Pro tip: don’t be afraid to leave the main road and head to the rugged rocks down below — they’re not as dangerous as they look from above.

Watch the sun set over Valletta Harbour

A great continuation of the last point: take a ferry across the Grand Harbour and watch the sun set from literally anywhere.

I promise you won’t regret it.

I personally watched the sunset from Valletta itself while waiting for my ferry back to Bormla, because that’s where my Airbnb was.

Get up to $40 off your first booking on Airbnb by signing up through this link!

View this post on Instagram Summer doesn't taste better! Have you tried our Iced Chocolate Praliné yet? This refreshing, dairy-free nutty chocolate mix is a summer bomb! 🙌 🍫❄️ A post shared by CHOCOLATE DISTRICT (@chocolate.district) on Jul 3, 2019 at 2:41am PDT

Enjoy a drink at the Chocolate District

If you’re looking for a place to get an energy fix before lunch time, look no further than the Chocolate District .

This is a small shop in one of the aforementioned narrow streets of Valletta where you can buy great chocolate bars, pralines and teas and coffee beans.

However, I recommend getting an iced chocolate drink if you’re visiting during the summer. It’s VERY refreshing and it tastes amazing.

View this post on Instagram Excited for your trip to Malta, but rain is forecast? Don't worry! There are many activities to do whilst indoors – including visiting us of course! #malta #maltese #visitmalta #lovemalta #rain #rainyday #relax #holiday A post shared by The Malta Experience (@the_malta_experience) on Oct 7, 2019 at 2:12am PDT

Learn about history at the Malta Experience

If you’re a history buff, the Malta Experience is something for you. This is a very informative 45-minute documentary on the history of Malta. I’m personally not a huge fan of historical documentaries, but I found this one to be well-made and interesting.

After this short movie, you also get a guided tour through the infirmary.

Have a quick bite at Gugar Hangout & BAR

Gugar is a great place in the city centre to get a cheap and quick bite or drink.

They don’t have a website, so it takes some insider knowledge to find this place. Luckily, I had my Airbnb host Daniel show me Gugar, and I’m glad he did.

On the menu, you’ll find a lot of vegetarian and vegan options. I can’t remember for the life of me what I had here, but the vegan ftira is supposed to be really good.

View this post on Instagram It’s Friday! Come get your boogie on with Afrobeats from @djshaywho on the decks from 9 pm and get your drink on with the best cocktails in town from your friendly neighbourhood bartenders 💁🏼‍♂️💁🏽‍♀️ A post shared by Cafe Society (@cafesociety_valletta) on Nov 29, 2019 at 10:48am PST

Have a drink at Cafe Society

One of the best cocktail bars in downtown Valletta is called Cafe Society. The cocktails are very reasonably priced and the bar puts on frequent events, as can be seen on their Facebook page .

In short, Cafe Society is the perfect place for a pre-dinner cocktail or a late-night party.

Scuba diving with Diveshack

If you’ve never gone scuba diving, Malta is the perfect place to do it for the first time.

I did the Discover Scuba Diving introduction programme with Diveshack , a dive shop that is located a short bus ride away from the capital (take bus 13, 13A, 14 or 16 from Valletta and get off at Sliema).

The people at Diveshack were very helpful and professional and their material was clean and up to date.

What to do in Rabat & Mdina

Visit the Silent City (Mdina)

Mdina is a fortified walled city that used to be Malta’s capital. Now, the Silent City — as it’s often called — is still home to about 250 inhabitants.

Many travellers visit Mdina for its sandstone-coloured narrow streets with traditional medieval balconies and archways, as well as the many cultural heritage sites within the city walls.

Fun fact: Mdina was used as a filming location for King’s Landing in the first season of Game of Thrones. One particular scene that was filmed in Mdina was the fight between Ned Stark and Jaime Lannister.

View this post on Instagram Hurry up! to work to study to love to travel! To live! 😻 A post shared by Ekaterina Abramova (@kat_abra) on Apr 28, 2017 at 1:35am PDT

Explore Rabat

Rabat is the city located right next to Mdina, so it’s a good idea to combine these two in one day. I recommend visiting Mdina in the morning and heading to Rabat after lunch.

One place I’d highly recommend you visit is St Paul’s Church and the Grotto upon which it was built. This grotto is linked to the Wignacourt Museum, which will be discussed shortly.

Secondly, you can’t miss St Paul’s Catacombs . This place will take you back in time to see burial rituals and urban legends from throughout Malta’s history. The Catacombs are definitely worth the €6 entry fee (€4 for students and seniors).

View this post on Instagram The first floor houses the extensive gallery of the #wignacourtmuseum. This was originally the Piano Nobile for the Chaplains of the Order of St.John. #museum #malta #rabat #history #culture #tourism A post shared by wignacourtmuseum (@wignacourtmuseum) on Apr 4, 2017 at 4:35am PDT

Check out the Wignacourt Museum

The Wignacourt Museum is located in Rabat and was named after Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt .

Be sure to look at the fascinating exhibits on the Order of Knights and the map room with the intriguing mappa mundi (medieval European world map).

What to do in Gozo & Comino

When you’re travelling alone in Malta, you just have to venture off the main island and take in the beauty of the country’s other islands, Gozo and Comino.

Quick heads up: if you follow these tips, you should see Gozo and Comino in two days, including a night on Gozo .

Take a day trip to Gozo

Starting off your two-day mini-trip, take a bus from Valletta to Cirkewwa, then transfer to the ferry to Mgarr and then take another bus to Qorrot. Then, walk from the Qorrot bus stop to Dahlet Qorrot beach.

DON’T FORGET TO TAKE WATER. Don’t make the same mistake that I made. Okay, moving on.

After baking in the sun and swimming in the sea for a bit, make your way to the other side of the island for your adventurous night. Take bus 303 to Victoria and transfer to bus 312 to Lawrenz. Walk the last part to the Azure Window remains.

If you still have time, you can check out the Citadel and St George’s Basilica in Victoria.

Sleep at Wardija Punic Temple

Before you get to your place to sleep for the night, take a look at what remains of the Azure Window. Although the arch collapsed in March 2017, it’s still a great place to stare at the sea and the natural rocks that the waves created.

Fun fact: before its collapse in 2017, the Azure Window was also used as a filming location for the very first episode of Game of Thrones.

After this, have dinner at the Azure Window restaurant . Pro tip: get a pizza. They’re cheap here.

Once you’ve had dinner, it’s time to make your way to the temple where you’ll be sleeping. I wrote a whole article with everything you need to know about Wardija , so go check that out for a more detailed description of how to get there.

Basically, it comes down to this. You need to use Google Maps (one of my favourite solo travel apps of 2020 ) to figure out the route from the restaurant to the temple.

Relax in Comino

After waking up in Wardija and walking back to the bus stop at the Azure Window, take the bus back to Mgarr and board the ferry to Comino.

One insider tip I’ll give you: skip the swimming session in the Blue Lagoon if you’re travelling alone. Especially during the summer months, there’ll be too many people in the water for you to enjoy yourself. Besides, it wouldn’t be safe to leave your things unattended while you’re swimming.

If you’re in Malta during shoulder season, knock yourself out.

That being said, you can still enjoy yourself on Comino without swimming in the Blue Lagoon.

Walk around the island and explore the rough landscapes at the less-visited part of Comino. Have a Popsicle. Enjoy the sun.

When you’ve seen it all, take the ferry from Comino back to Malta.

Miscellaneous things to do in Malta

Here are some things to do as a solo traveller in Malta when you have some time left over.

View this post on Instagram Birgu is part of the “Three Cities” – it was the capital of Malta before Valletta – you can’t miss that #efmalta A post shared by EF Malta (@efmalta) on Dec 8, 2019 at 10:46am PST

Learn about history in the Three Cities

The Three Cities is a collective name for Conspicua, Birgu and Senglea — three fortified cities across the Grand Harbour from Valletta.

If you have an extra day, you may want to consider taking the ferry across the harbour and walking through the history-lined streets, soaking up the atmosphere.

View this post on Instagram Vakantie, dus dit soort plekjes bezoeken🌿✨ A post shared by Dilia Oosting ✨ (@diliaoosting) on Mar 10, 2019 at 9:42am PDT

Visit San Anton Gardens

These gardens are located in Attard and form a part of the President of Malta’s official estate, San Anton Palace. They’re free to enter and there is a very peaceful atmosphere, with different species of fish, birds and even turtles.

These large gardens were established during the British rule over Malta and still form a nice, calming refuge, surrounded by Malta’s busy streets.

Check out Mosta Rotunda

The Rotunda of Mosta, also known as the Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady, is a neoclassical church whose construction was completed in the early 1860s. The design was based on the Pantheon in Rome.

The big draw of this church is its ornate dome, which at one point was the third largest unsupported dome in the world.

During the second World War, a German bomb fell into the church during Mass but failed to explode. As if by miracle, nobody was hurt. A replica of the bomb is still displayed in the sacristy at the back of the church.

Visit Marsaxlokk

Unfortunately, I didn’t get a chance to visit Marsaxlokk, but I’ve heard that it can be a great addition to solo travel in Malta.

Any postcard from Malta worth its salt will feature the colourful fishing boats in Marsaxlokk. These boats can be spotted all over the island, but Marsaxlokk is the only place where they’re still used for actual fishery.

After wandering along the promenade, you might want to check out the Sunday fish market or pay a visit to St Lucian Tower, which was constructed by the Order of St John to protect Malta from Ottoman threats.

Skip to the next section: Solo travel in Malta

If you’re travelling solo in Malta, you have a few options regarding accommodation .

Firstly, you can check Airbnb for cool places to stay with local hosts. This is how I found my accommodation when I was in Malta in 2017.

Sign up through this link and get over €40 off your first Airbnb trip !

Secondly, check Couchsurfing for free accommodation in Malta.

Next, take a look at websites like Hostelworld to find cheap hostel rooms all over the island. The cheapest average cost for hostel rooms is in Sliema, with prices starting at just €10/night during the peak summer months.

Last but not least, since Malta is such a cheap country, you could really find hotel room bargains. Compare websites like Hotels.com , Booking.com and Trivago to find the best deals.

Skip to the next section: Tips & tricks for solo travel in Malta

Travelling alone in Malta is a great way to discover everything the country has to offer.

And, while that may be true for many countries, I have a special relationship with solo travel in Malta.

Malta was the second place I travelled to by myself and it was the first real solo adventure trip I did. It’s completely different from a solo city trip to Dublin or Berlin , for example.

Since Malta was a British colony for such a long time, English is still commonly spoken throughout the country.

And, since you’re reading this, you can speak English and you can get around easily by talking to locals.

Solo travel in Malta is anything but boring: the Mediterranean island has it all.

Countless diving options, great restaurants, friendly locals, cities steeped in history and breathtaking nature: whatever it is you’re looking for on your first solo trip , you can find it in Malta.

Solo travel in Malta: Tips & tricks

Public transport.

• Get a week pass for the bus ( Explore Card ). This card will give you unlimited access to public transport for 7 days and it costs €21. If you buy individual tickets for every bus ride, you’ll probably pay a lot more.
• If you’re not staying long enough to get value out of your Explore Card, keep in mind that bus tickets are valid for two hours after purchase, even if you transfer buses.
• Use the Journey Planner to see which buses will get you where you need to go.
• If you’re a student, don’t forget to take your student card. Many attractions will give you a student discount if you can prove that you are a student (i.e. by showing your student card).
• Similarly, if you’re a senior, take some form of identification with you to prove that you’re over 50/60/65 years old.
• Consider purchasing a Malta Discount Card – check the website to see which restaurants and attractions will give you a discount.

Food and drinks

• Try some traditional Maltese pastizzi (a cheap savoury pastry, usually filled with ricotta or mushy peas).
• Drink Kinnie (a bittersweet soft drink with a strange orange aftertaste).
• Taste some freshly-caught fish and seafood in Marsaxlokk.
• Bring a bottle of water with you everywhere you go. Malta can get very hot and dry in the summer months.
• Please don’t forget to bring and regularly apply sunblock.
• Tap water in Malta is safe to drink, but its taste is kind of eh .
• It’s common to tip about 10% at restaurants, but you’ll be fine if you don’t tip.

Malta itinerary (pdf)

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Hi, I’m thinking of going Malta early June. Would you recommend any tours/free tours? I’ve heard some unpleasant things about the buses how expensive is cabs there? Is it safe I’m a solo female traveler. How much money should I take for a week? Any scams I should be aware of?

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Ultimate Malta Solo Travel Guide: Why Visit and What to Expect

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you buy or book through one of these links, I may earn a small commission .

Are you considering solo travel in Malta? This Mediterranean island nation is certainly pretty, but is Malta safe and enjoyable for a female traveling alone?

As someone who took the leap and traveled without my husband to Malta last year, today I am reporting all about my experience. I am sugarcoating nothing and being completely transparent about my joys and struggles during my first solo trip in Europe.

So without further ado, here is my full report about what it was like to travel as a solo female in Malta.

Solo Travel in Malta: What You Need to Know

Why travel to malta.

Of all the different countries to choose from, why did I pick Malta? And why did I go alone?

• I was already traveling in Greece with my husband right beforehand, so staying in Southern Europe made sense.
• Pictures I’d seen of Malta’s Blue Lagoon on Instagram looked gorgeous.
• I’d always wanted to visit the Mediterranean.
• The architecture in Valletta looked incredible and like a dream for photography.
• I was encouraged by the country’s low crime rate and that English is one of its official languages.

Still wonder why I traveled to Malta alone, when I usually travel with my husband? For one, he has less flexibility with work than me, so I’m able to travel more often than him. Second, I’d been yearning to flex my independence abroad, and embrace the confidence that comes from relying on oneself in unfamiliar surroundings.

Top Attractions in Malta

Are you curious about solo travel in Malta, but unsure what all there is to see? Malta has a colorful history, having been an island of strategic importance by essentially being the gateway to the Mediterranean Sea. Additionally, Malta is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites .

There is plenty to do in Malta, but let’s start by drawing you in with these top five postcard-worthy sights:

1. Valletta

2. Grand Harbour

3. Walled City of Mdina

4. Gozo Island

5. Blue Lagoon

Malta First Impressions

I arrived into Malta International Airport after dark and paid 17 euros for the twenty-minute cab ride into Valletta.  As I arrived, I took note of the narrow, hilly streets, which are laid out in a grid.  Many of the streets are one way, and the cab driver accidentally missed my Airbnb on the first two tries.

That said, it wasn’t hard to love Valletta pretty quickly.  The city is small and easy to explore on foot, although many streets are steep and some have lots of stairs. Of course, the stairs are part of Valletta’s charm, along with its colorful balconies and views of Grand Harbour all around.

I found Valletta to be a nice home base for day tripping to places like the Blue Grotto and Mdina.  While I rented a car, many local tour companies leave from Valletta, and there is also good bus and taxi availability.

Admittedly, some of my initial enchantment wore off when I started driving around Malta, due to issues with my rental car. Also, traveling in the middle of September meant that it was really hot outside and I was constantly soaked with sweat.

Meeting Other Travelers

For me, tours are always the easiest way to meet other travelers. However, I did not love the overall tour options available in Malta. Pickings were slim and many had only so-so reviews. 

That said, I did book a couple so that I could socialize a bit. On my Gozo Jeep Tour, I ended up meeting another girl from the USA, and joined her and another girl from her hostel for dinner that evening. It was nice to not eat alone for one night!

Although I did not stay in a hostel, this is another good way for solo travelers to meet people. There are a lot of hostels in Malta, though not so much in Valletta. However, you need only go a bit further north to St. Julian’s to find a multitude of options.

Malta Likes & Dislikes

What I liked about Malta

• The beautiful scenery of Grand Harbour, especially from the Upper Barrakka Gardens.
• Taking myself out to cozy Trabuxu Wine Bar. It was also fun to stroll down Straight Street on a Saturday evening, when lots of people were out for the night.
• The charming stairs and balconies of Valletta.
• Visiting The Three Cities on a quick and inexpensive ferry across Grand Harbour.
• Visiting prehistoric ruins like Hagar Qim, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Chilling in the airport lounge at Malta International Airport, which I could access thanks to the Priority Pass from my Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card.

What I disliked about Malta

• My crappy rental car. I had so many random issues with it, from working the emergency brake to unlocking the steering wheel.
• Driving on the opposite side of the car and opposite side of the road. I accidentally hit the curb more times than I’d like to admit.
• Being constantly sweaty in dry 90 degree F heat. I traveled in September and it hadn’t rained since February. Sadly, the landscapes were largely dry and brown.
• Visiting Mdina in high noon, when it was hot and crowded with tourists. Mdina is known to be much more atmospheric at night, but I was afraid to drive in the dark.
• My Gozo Jeep Tour, where the Jeeps were way too small to reasonably fit four adults in the back. Personal space was not a thing.

Safety in Malta

Malta is generally a safe place for solo travel, but you should always be aware of your surroundings. Below are my observations on safety that I personally dealt with while in Malta. For a deeper dive, I recommend checking out this article here .

• Petty Crime: Theft and pickpocketing do occasionally happen in Malta. I always kept my small purse in front of me, and left some cash and cards back in my room.
• Walking in Valletta after dark: While Valletta did not feel unsafe at night, I still tried to avoid being out after dark. The two times I did, I talked to my husband on the phone until I reached my Airbnb and walked back with the two girls I’d met for dinner.
• Driving in Malta: Driving on the opposite side of the road and car is weird at first, but you’ll get used to it. I found almost all sights pretty easily using Google Maps. In case of car troubles like I had, get your rental company’s roadside assistance number and keep a portable phone charger on hand.
• Hiking in Malta: My cringe hiking moment was slipping on my butt on loose rocks while hiking to see the Dingli Cliffs. There was hardly anyone around, so thankfully I only had a couple bruises. Do better than me by sticking to well-trafficked paths and wearing sturdy shoes. In the heat, you’ll want a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
• Swimming in Malta: Take care when swimming alone in Malta, as water can be deep and have currents or dangerous rocks. I happily swam in the gentle waters of Gozo’s Ramla l-Hamra beach. However, I only did minimal swimming in the Blue Lagoon because the water was deep, and I prefer to wade. Just know your limits and follow the locals.

Should Solo Female Travelers Visit Malta?

I would recommend Malta as a lovely destination for solo female travelers. The country is generally safe and filled with so much beauty.  Driving in Malta gave me the most trouble, but it is not necessary to do so.  Using public transportation, like buses and taxis, is affordable and easy to access.  Booking a full day tour to take you around the islands of Malta or Gozo offers additional convenience and the chance to meet people. 

For a first solo trip in Europe, my stay in Malta was overall a success, with plenty of beautiful photos to show for it. Despite the setbacks, I am still glad I pushed myself to drive around the island. There are probably easier places to visit for a first solo trip abroad, but you have to start somewhere!

Are you considering solo travel in Malta?

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Malta in 3 Days Without a Car: An Awesome Malta Itinerary

Seeing Malta in 3 days (and without a car) sounds like an impossible mission, I know. I actually had more time on this Mediterranean island , but because of the most annoying vertigo, I had to spend a part of my trip in my hotel room.

I didn’t get to visit places like the Three Cities and Dingli Cliffs, and missing out was definitely not fun. Not exactly what I had in mind for this trip, but it is what it is.

Nonetheless, I feel like I used my healthy(ish) time properly and I want to share my itinerary with you, so if you only have three days in Malta, here’s how to make the most of them.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Table of Contents

3-Day Malta Itinerary Summary and Map

Is three days enough time to experience Malta to the fullest? Definitely not, because I could easily spend a full week there. That said, I think my itinerary won’t leave you disappointed as it gives you a taste of different sides of the main island in this archipelago.

Here’s what you’ll see on this itinerary:

• Day 1: Valletta.
• Day 2: Mdina, Ghajn Tuffieha (Riviera Beach).
• Day 3 : Blue Grotto, Marsaxlokk.

See these places on the map .

Where to Stay for 3 Days in Malta Without a Car

The city of Sliema is a great base for taking day trips by public transport in Malta . Although I wouldn’t say it’s “a beautiful city”, it has a lovely promenade, some nice rocky beaches, and a variety of restaurants. I stayed at Slimiza Suites (I had a good time there, but unfortunately, its rating dropped recently).

Higher-rated places to stay in Sliema include Marea Boutique Hotels , Seafront Duplex Penthouse , and Amery House .

Another option is to base yourself in the UNESCO-listed capital city, Valletta . It is well-connected by bus to many points of interest across the island and is packed with landmarks, places to eat, and pretty streets.

Check out highly-rated hotels in Valletta like Tano’s Boutique Guesthouse , Ursulino Valletta , and 66 Saint Paul’s & Spa .

You can also read my full guide to the best areas to stay in Malta or the best places to stay in Malta without renting a car .

Optional Itinerary Changes to See the Best of Malta in 3 Days

1. If you have an extra full day or want to make some changes to this itinerary, take a day trip to Gozo and the uninhabited Comino (known for its Blue Lagoon), Malta’s other two islands. Gozo’s infamous Azure Window might have collapsed, but there’s a lot more to see there, from the capital Victoria to the salt pans.

You can visit Gozo and Comino independently (with a bus to Cirkewwa + a ferry to the islands) , with a cruise, or with a guided day tour . If you’re basing yourself in Sliema like me, you can take this Comino & Blue Lagoon cruise (other tours are only suitable for those staying in the northwest part of Malta). You can also take the Gozo Fast Ferry from Valletta.

2. Other places I would have loved to visit are the UNESCO-listed Megalithic Temples of Malta (Hagar Qim, Tarxien, and others) scattered around the island and the San Anton Gardens.

3. If you have an extra half a day or prefer doing something more relaxed, stay in Sliema . Enjoy the sun and the water at Sliema’s Roman Baths and rocky beaches. You can also book this highly-rated cruise around Malta’s harbors .

Take your time and continue walking along the promenade towards the town of St. Julian’s. Apart from all the cafes and restaurants, you can enjoy the end of your trip relaxing and savoring the sea views.

Getting Around Malta Without a Car

Considering all the pros and cons of traveling by car along with what I had read about Malta’s bus routes, traffic, and driving culture, I decided to use both buses and taxis to get around the island (fun fact: they drive on the left side of the road ) .

You can buy your bus ticket directly from the driver or get a 12-ride card at the ticket office or machines located next to all the bus stations in either Sliema or Valletta (see all sales points here ). Note that buses can get full quite quickly, but I still think public transport is a good way to get around Malta.

Traveling from Sliema to Valletta or vice versa is extremely easy, as you can take a 5-minute ferry (that operates once every half an hour).

Regarding taxis, I used them a few times when I didn’t want to switch buses and spend 90 minutes on a bus instead of 15 minutes in a car. You can also use Uber or Malta’s eCabs app.

Getting from Sliema to Valletta:  Take the ferry or buses 13,14,15 or 16 from Sliema to Valletta.

With all the things to do and see in Valletta , a city founded by the Knights Hospitaller ( Order of St. John ), it’s hard to believe that it is the EU’s smallest capital city yet clear why it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

All the shops and cafes on the main streets make it seem slightly modern, but everything else about it just screams ‘history.’

Although it has become a highly-visit city, you can always find quiet corners away from the popular streets. To enjoy the best of it, here are some of the best things to do in Malta’s capital.

1. Highly-Rated Tours You Can Take in Valletta

A walking tour in Valletta: Learn about Maltese history while discovering Valletta’s main sights. Read reviews and check out this highly-rated 3-hour tour .

Street food tour: Learn about Valletta’s history and the local food culture, and try some popular Maltese dishes. Read reviews and browse its latest prices here .

2. Admire Valletta’s Narrow Streets and Maltese Balconies

Strolling through the streets of a city is the best way to see it and discover its hidden treasures, especially when it comes to a city as enchanting as Valletta.

With a mix of European and Middle Eastern vibes and the abundance of colors of the traditional Maltese balconies, Valletta is one big maze of uniqueness.

Some of the streets you should explore are St. Christopher’s Street, Old Mint Street, Old Bakery Street, and Republic Street, but that’s just a taste of Valletta, and you can spend hours wandering around.

3. St. John’s Co-cathedral

Probably one of the most visited landmarks in Valletta (and one of the top historical sites in Malta ), the St. John’s Co-Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral that was built in the 16th century by the Order of St. John.

With so many intricate architectural and decorative details, it’s practically one big work of art and one of the best places in Europe to appreciate Baroque architecture. It also has immense religious importance, so expect this place to be busy.

If you want to visit it with a guide, book this walking tour.

4. Lower and Upper Barrakka Gardens

Both gardens are exactly where you want to be when you’re looking for a peaceful scenic spot in Valletta.

While the Lower Barrakka Gardens offer views of the Grand Harbour, the Upper Barrakka Gardens has a special treat for you – the Saluting Battery , a 16th-century artillery battery that was mainly used for ceremonies.

Looking down from the gardens’ main terrace, you can watch the cannon firing every day at 12 PM and 4 PM (for free!). I don’t about you, but to me, that was one hell of a unique experience. You can also buy a ticket to see the Saluting Battery up close.

The main terrace is also a perfect place to enjoy the views of the magnificent Fort St. Angelo (which was also built by the knights).

5. Casa Rocca Piccola

Dating back to the 16th century, Casa Rocca Piccola is the palace and home of the Maltese noble family de Piro (that still lives in it today!).

Some of its rooms are open to the public, and they allow you to have a glance at a noble family’s lifestyle. From silver items and antique furniture to paintings and clothing, this place is the definition of old-school luxury.

Address: Republic 74. You can purchase your ticket in advance here.

6. Grandmaster’s Palace and the Palace Armory

I have much respect for royal palaces, but visiting the residences of actual knights has always seemed uniquely cool to me.

I had already visited one on my Lisbon to Porto road trip , and I wasn’t going to miss the opportunity to see a second one.

Dating back to the 16th century, the Grandmaster’s Palace is the largest palace in Valletta and one of the first buildings that were built in the city. Let me tell you one thing – this place has been through a lot.

After serving as the residence of the Grand Masters of the Order of St. John, it was also the Governor’s Palace during British rule and the seat of the Parliament of Malta. Nowadays, it’s the Office of the President of Malta.

When visiting the palace, don’t miss the Palace Armory. Seeing such a large and impressive collection of original knight armor is simply amazing.

Address: Palace Square.

Prices and opening hours: Here .

7. Auberge de Castille, and Churches of St Catherine of Italy and Our Lady of Victory

Located one next to another, these three beautiful buildings are worthy of at least a few minutes of your time.

Now housing the Office of the Prime Minister of Malta, the Auberge de Castille was once the official seat of the knights of the Langue of Castille, Leon, and Portugal.

Right next to it, you can marvel at the oldest church in the city, the Church of Our Lady of Victory, and the Church of Saint Catherine of Italy which was built by the Italian knights of St. John.

8. The Royal Opera House and the Parliament of Malta

Two more points of interest in Valletta located right in front of each other are the 19th-century Royal Opera House and Malta’s Parliament Building.

While you can appreciate the modern architecture of the parliament building, you can only see the remains of the opera house.

Sadly, it was destroyed in an aerial bombing in 1942, but I did find its remains pretty charming thanks to its Greek-like quality.

9 . MUSEUMS

There are several intriguing museums you can check out in Valletta, including the National War Museum in Fort St. Elmo, the National Museum of Archaeology, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

10 . THE CITY GATE AND THE TRITON FOUNTAIN

If you want to make an official entrance to Valletta, head to the City Gate, which is actually the fifth one built in that location.

But the true icon in this place is the Triton Fountain. It became such a beloved landmark right from the start (about 60 years ago), so who am I to argue with three mermen holding up a giant plate?

11. A Hidden Gem in Valletta: Sunday in Scotland Chocolate Boutique

I know it’s the last thing you’d expect from this post, but to me, hidden gems come in all shapes and forms. Besides, I’m not going to say no to chocolate.

With its adorable interiors, tempting pralines, and picture-perfect patisserie desserts, you also won’t be disappointed by the chocolate shop & cafe Sunday in Scotland.

Address:  St. Lucia 172.

There are plenty of reasons to visit Malta , and Mdina is one of them. Also known as ‘The Silent City’, it is a thing of beauty and an ideal spot to start your second day. This gorgeous fortified city was actually Malta’s capital from antiquity until the 16th century.

For those of you who love mazes of charming alleys, Mdina has got you covered. I know that this UNESCO city has other highlights like the city gate, the Vilhena Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Cathedral Museum, but its streets have won me over the most.

Strolling through them truly felt like stepping back in time. No cars are allowed unless you have a special permit, and there are very few residents, but it’s important to know it has become a popular tourist spot.

If you want to explore Mdina with a guide, you can book a walking tour.

To cool off, head to Gelateria Fior di Latte (Villegaignon 21). Apart from devouring the delicious gelato, you can enjoy a fantastic lookout point right next to it.

Getting from Sliema to Mdina:  Take bus 202 from Sliema and get off at Rabat station, which is only a minute away from Mdina’s entrance gate.

Ghajn Tuffieha Bay

Also known as Riviera Beach, I knew I wanted to visit this bay ever since I had laid my eyes on it on Instagram .

It’s the perfect spot for both relaxing and enjoying some scenic viewpoints. The jaw-dropping sight of the bay reveals itself right when you walk down the stairs from the parking lot above it.

You can get another angle of it by walking towards the Ghajn Tuffieha Tower before taking the stairs down to the beach.

I also highly recommend climbing up to the Ghajn Tuffieha viewpoint on the other side of the beach to see yet another gorgeous little bay.

Important tip:  Don’t do any of these climbs with flip-flops. They may be short, but you must wear decent shoes or sandals.

Good to know:  The facilities and services in this bay include a restaurant, toilets, and beach chair & umbrella rentals.

Getting from Mdina to Ghajn Tuffieha:  To save time, I took a taxi. It should cost about 20 Euros (yeah, not as budget-friendly as a bus), but it only takes about 20 minutes instead of 60-90 by bus (including a switch/transfer).

Getting from Ghajn Tuffieha back to Sliema:  Climbing back up, right next to the parking lot there’s a bus stop called Riviera. From there, take bus 225 which goes all the way to Sliema.

Did you know? There’s a European legend that says that Malta is the lost city of Atlantis!

The Blue Grotto

Let’s just say that boats and I are not the best of friends, but I made an exception for the Blue Grotto.

Located on the island’s southern coast, this complex of seven caves is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to visit in Malta, and taking a cave boat tour is a must-have experience.

On the 25-minute tour, you get to see some impressive arches, rock formations, and the most mesmerizing hues of blue water courtesy of the sunlight. In one word: MAGICAL.

Opening hours:  9 AM – 5 PM during summertime. 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM during wintertime.

Good to know #1:  You don’t need (and can’t) book the tour in advance. Buy your ticket at the ticket office and wait in line. Boats always come and go, and you won’t be waiting for too long even if it’s a bit busy.

Good to know #2:  You can also swim in this area, so be sure to have your swimsuit with you.

Getting there from Sliema:  Take the ferry from Sliema to Valletta or buses 13,14,15 or 16. From Valletta’s bus terminal, take bus number 74 and get off at the Panorama bus stop.

Tip #1:  Choose a sunny day to visit the Blue Grotto and take your tour before noon to enjoy the best blue colors. Also, the tours don’t operate if the weather doesn’t allow it.

Tip #2: Don’t miss the Blue Grotto’s viewpoint where you can feast on the iconic picture-perfect views of the main (and tallest) arch. It’s located not too far from the bus stop. You can either take your photo (and take in the views) and continue towards the ticket office or head there after taking the boat tour.

The colorful boats of the fishing village of Marsaxlokk (pronounced Mar-sash-lok) have made it one of my favorite places in Malta.

The village is small, and there isn’t much to see beyond the boats in the port and Marsaxlokk’s Parish Church, but I still think it’s worth the visit.

The village also hosts a famous market on Sundays, and I even came across a cute little souvenir market in the middle of the week. I visited on a tranquil day, but note that Marsaxlokk is becoming more and more popular.

If you’re feeling hungry, you can find countless restaurants along the promenade. I had some delicious pasta at La Nostra Padrona Restaurant‏, which also serves fresh seafood.

From Marsaxlokk, you can take a short boat ride to St. Peter’s Pool (you’ll see many boat tour signs while walking alongside the port), a well-known natural swimming pool in this area.

Price: A one-way boat ride to/from St. Peter’s Pool should cost you about 5 euros.

Getting from the Blue Grotto to Marsaxlokk:  Again, to save time, I decided to take a taxi. It should cost about 20 Euros (again, I know it’s not cheap), but it only takes about 15 minutes instead of an hour or more when you have to switch buses.

Getting from Marsaxlokk back to Sliema:  Bus 81 goes from Marsaxlokk to Valletta’s bus terminal. From Valletta, you can take either a bus (13,14,15, or 16) or the ferry back to Sliema.

Instead of Marsaxlokk, you can take bus 201 from the Blue Grotto and visit the Dingli Cliffs or Ħaġar Qim Temples (from where you can take a bus directly back to Valletta).

Looking for a girls’ trip destination in Europe ? A long weekend in Malta could be a great choice!

Related Posts

To know what to expect from this beautiful country, here are a few other Malta travel tips you have to read before your trip.

Want to explore other Mediterranean islands or European regions without renting a car? Read:

• 4 days in Crete
• 7 days in Mallorca
• 5 days in Puglia
• 5 days in Alsace

About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

10 thoughts on “Malta in 3 Days Without a Car: An Awesome Malta Itinerary”

I would love to visit Malta and admire the cute balconies and see the fishing village! Looks really charming!

These places were super charming 🙂

Very detailed and insightful post! Thank you, Or!

Thank you! Glad you liked it 🙂

I rarely see things on Malta even though it’s on my bucket list – I’ve just added all of this to my list 🙂

It’s an amazing destination! I hope you get to visit soon!

I was only in Malta for part of one day, so I did hire a private car to be able to see what was most important to me. Along with several of the locations you mentioned, I visited (most important tome) the cave where the Apostle Paul stayed when he became shipwrecked on the island. It later served as a bomb shelter during the war. I fell in love with Malta, and hope to return for an extended stay!

I hope it was fine for you to drive there – I really didn’t want to. And I hope you get to visit again soon! Also, do you remember the name of the cave?

I really enjoyed reading this about Malta! I would love to go! I have pinned this too!

Thank you so much! I hope you get to visit soon!

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Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to get to Malta

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

Getting to Malta from the rest of Europe

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

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

Getting to Malta from the rest of the world

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

Getting around Malta

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

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

Where to stay in Malta

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

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

Budget Choice

‍ $20 (pppn)

Sunny Coast Resort Club

Luxury Pick

Hugo's Boutique Hotel (Adults only)

25 Best Things To Do In Malta

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GET YOUR POPEYE VILLAGE TICKETS HERE!

2. Spend the day by St Paul's Bay

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

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

3. Walk around the silent city of Mdina 

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

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

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

4. Visit the Blue Grotto View Point 

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

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

The viewpoint can be accessed 24/7. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Discover the amazing St Paul's Catacombs

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

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

8. Be amazed at the stunning Mosta Dome 

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

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

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

9. Check out an original WW2 bunker 

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Visit the unique and wonderful Tarxien temples 

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

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

Entrance is 6 euro. 

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

• Ta' Hagrat
• Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum 

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

12. Head underground at the Ghar dalam cave 

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

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

13. Relax in the sun at Golden Bay

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

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

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

Don't forget to book your pub crawl here.

15. Dine by the sea in modern Sliema 

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

16. Try the local delicacies: Pastizzi 

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

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

17. Take a day trip to beautiful Gozo 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

19. Visit a winery 

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

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

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

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

21. Walk along the Xemxija Bay 

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

22.  Explore the capital city of Valletta 

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

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

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

Check out this original Walking Tour in Valletta.

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

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

‍ Check this three cities tour here. 

24. Go snorkelling across the island 

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

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

25. Get off the beaten track 

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

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

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

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

Malta Itinerary

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

Be warned: It's pretty epic!

Other Malta travel tips

Can i just book a tour in malta.

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

Here are some of the most popular tours:

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

When is the best time to visit Malta?

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

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

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

How long should you spend in Malta?

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

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

How much should you budget for Malta?

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

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

Where to after Malta?

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

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

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

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

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Is Malta Worth Visiting? 10 Reasons You Should Consider Malta as Your Next Destination

Is Malta worth visiting? I’ve heard this question so many times and after spending a month and a half there, I can say it is a wonderful little country with plenty of charm, sweeping beaches, crystal clear water, dramatic coastlines, friendly locals, and plenty of history.

Malta is a delightful mix of old and new, abandoned and shiny, nature and city.

There are an array of reasons why visit Malta is a good idea.

In this post, I’ve compiled some of the top reasons to visit Malta that might be appealing to different types of travelers.

Whether you’re a foodie, a culture lover, a beach dweller, or love a good hike, there are plenty of things to do in Malta , being such a tiny, underrated country.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you.

MORE FROM MALTA

• 2-day Malta itinerary
• 3-day Malta itinerary
• Beautiful towns and cities in Malta
• Best hikes in Malta
• Malta in winter

Table of Contents

Reasons to visit Malta

So, what is Malta like and is it worth visiting? Here are my top reasons to visit this underrated Mediterranean city.

Breathtaking coastlines

The breathtaking coastlines of Malta with its jaw-dropping cliffs and pristine beaches are enough of a reason why Malta is worth visiting.

Dropping tens of meters directly into the deep blue Mediterranean, the golden cliffs attract tourists all year round whether visiting Malta in winter or summer. Your vacation in Malta is guaranteed to give you hundreds of incredible pictures!

Pristine beaches

The beaches in Malta are incredibly beautiful with crystal-clear blue water. While Malta is mainly seen as a summer destination and that is what most people will think of when you mention the beaches, you can easily go for a swim in winter too.

No matter if you are in Malta, Gozo, or Comino, the beaches are so beautiful and the water is clear. among my favorites, are Golden Bay and the Blue Lagoon in Comino. So if you ask yourself “Is Malta nice?” you haven’t seen the beaches yet!

Stunning hiking destination

If you’ve been around for a while, you know that hiking is one of my greatest passions, so you can only imagine that I spent quite some time walking the many hikes in Malta during my stay.

Truth is, when I flew over Malta before landing I looked down on the tiny islands and saw hardly any inhabited places. I said to myself that one of the number one reasons not to visit Malta was that there were no hiking trails there.

Luckily, I was wrong.

There are enough hiking trails crisscrossing the three islands to go hiking for months to end. You can explore coastal trails along the top of the cliffs, walk beach to beach, or explore historical sites like you will find along the Xemxija Heritage Trail or the Victoria Lines.

Picturesque rock pools

Malta does not only provide sweeping sandy beaches but with all the cliffs surrounding the islands, there is a number of picture-perfect rock pools to enjoy too.

Among the most famous, you find the Blue Lagoon on Comino Island and St. Peter’s Pool near Marsaxlokk.

You can easily jump on any of Malta’s boat tours to explore these turquoise pools and go for a swim or cliff jump with the locals.

Are you still wondering “Is Malta a good place to visit?” Because with these rock pools, I don’t know what will convince you.

Great vegan food options

As a vegan foodie, I can say that Malta is not a bad destination for eating out. While most of the cuisine is seafood and meat-based, there are some naturally vegan Maltese dishes to look for.

Amon them Fitra pizza, Soppa tal-Armla, a soup of potatoes, carrots, peas garlic, and cauliflower, where you must ask them to skip the egg and cheese topping, and a selection of dips like Bigilla bean dip and Kunserva, a thick sundried tomato sauce.

There are also plenty of restaurants serving vegan and healthy food throughout the island. But as anywhere, the most common places to find this are the big cities and the most touristy areas like Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julians.

So, is Malta nice to visit as a vegan? I would say yes!

You can visit World War 2 Shelters

Malta was hit hard during World War 2 and a large number of underground shelters were built throughout the islands to protect entire towns and cities when the non-stop bombings took place.

Today, they are a memory of what was and a great way to learn about the daunting attacks that the Maltese endured.

Walking through the shelters is both interesting and depressing as you imagine how the people were crammed inside the tunnels, the sick were treated, and children were playing.

Intriguing history

Is it worth visiting Malta for history buffs? Trust me. The history of Malta goes far beyond the Second World War. The island has a whole lot of megalithic remains and is seen as a highly spiritual destination.

If you hike across the island, you will come across several remains from pre-historic to Roman telling a tale of former civilizations inhabiting the little island.

If you prefer the convenience of museums, make sure you visit the Archaeological Museum in Valletta.

The churches are so beautiful

Don’t get me started with the churches in Malta. They are dotted everywhere across the island (and Gozo!)

If you are wondering: Is Malta a nice place to visit for the churches, all you need to do is trust me on this and book your ticket.

One of the most prominent landmarks in Malta is the majestic St. John’s Co-Cathedral. Not only is it imposing from the outside, but step inside and you won’t believe the opulence of the golden decor, the frescoes, and the detailed decorations. It is grand!

Besides, the Mosta Rotunda, where allegedly a bomb fell through the roof without detonating during the Second World War, is a unique place to visit in Malta.

Worth visiting are also the main churches in any other city or town in Malta , whether you visit Mdina, Mellieħa, or Valletta, there are pretty churches to step inside.

Epic party scene

Is Malta good for party animals? While I’m not much of a party animal myself anymore, I can assure you that the party scene in Malta is epic.

Whether you stay in Sliema, St. Julians, or Valletta, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs to party all night long.

Particularly famous for its nightclubs is the Paceville area in St. Julians. My entire hostel could vouch for that neighborhood during my stay. Whether it’s winter or summer, the party scene goes strong!

Visit Popeye Village

Finally, is Malta worth a visit with kids? Heck yes! I am a big kid, so I can tell. Malta is home to the Popeye film set which is absolutely adorable.

Cute, crooked houses in a picturesque setting, the Popeye Village is ideal for a visit with kids – or without. Every day, there are parades and performances in the village which are fun to watch.

Final thoughts: Is Malta Worth Visiting?

So, is Malta worth visiting or not? Bottom line, it is up to you to decide, but if I haven’t convinced you with the above, I don’t know what will.

There are a million reasons why you should visit Malta, but if they don’t speak to you I hope this helped you clarify.

FAQ – Is Malta Worth Visiting?

Is malta a good holiday destination.

Malta is a fabulous holiday destination both in summer and winter offering g a wide range of things to do from beaches to historical sites, shopping, and food.

Is Malta too touristy?

While some areas in Malta are very touristy, especially in the summer, there are plenty of rural destinations to retreat. In fact, the island is famous for its yoga and meditation retreats.

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There are a number of reasons why Malta should be up there close to the top of your bucket list. Located in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, Malta is made up of three beautiful islands. They’re each unique, but all come with idyllic beaches, rich historical sites and deep cultural traditions that are sure to enthrall and enchant.

The country is well-known for its scuba diving and snorkeling, its pleasant climate (think over 3,000 hours of rays each year!), and its uber-old capital in Valletta. All that comes wrapped up with a past that’s seen everyone from the Normans to the Moors to the Knights Hospitaller make a home in these parts, raising great castles and cathedrals in their wake.

Still not convinced? We’ve put together this list of the top nine reasons why you should be booking your plane tickets to Malta imminently. No matter what kind of traveler you are, you’re sure to find something that will make your trip unforgettable, whether that’s the tasty Maltese wine or the intriguing UNESCO city at the heart of it all. Let’s begin…

Table of Contents

Year-round sunshine

Malta has a Mediterranean climate, meaning that the summers here are long, hot and full of sunshine. That’s just what you were hoping to hear, right? July is often the hottest month, with an average daily temperature of 80 F (27 C). Overall, though, the best months to visit to enjoy consistent sunshine without the crowds are from May to June and then again from September to October, as it stays warm pretty late and warms up early this far south but the bulk of the travelers come in the height of the summer.

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That’s not to say that the winters in Malta are cold, though. With the country boasting over 300 days of sunshine each year. This means even in the colder months you are likely to be able to top up the tan, although the Mediterranean can get chillier and not too many folk will swim (at least not the locals!).

That said, winter is a cracking option if you want to hit the historic sights of Valletta (more on those later!), because it means you can get into the Co-Cathedral and see those haunting Caravaggio paintings without the queues. The cooler weather also makes for some great hiking on Gozo island , between the craggy coastline and the lush inland farms.

Beautiful beaches

Malta is brimming with stunning beaches. Perhaps the most famous of the lot is the Blue Lagoon, a wide inlet on the side of the island of Comino where the sandbanks get shallow, and the H2O turns a shimmering glaze of turquoise under the Mediterranean Sun. A boat trip over there is like a journey into the Caribbean.

But that’s not it. There are gorgeous beaches on Malta island and Gozo to boot. The first is most famous for its sandy bays where sunbeds dot the shoreline. The latter is better known for having a rugged coast covered in intrepid paths to wave-lashed beaches.

Here are just a few more that we think are worth visiting:

• Golden Bay – One of the most family friendly beaches on the island of Malta, this one has soft sands and protected swimming.
• Xlendi Beach – Bring the snorkels along for Xlendi Beach, which is dashed through by incredible reefs filled with fish.
• Ramla Bay – Usually way emptier than the popular resort beaches around Valletta and the Malta north coast, this Gozo bay is a true stunner, with golden sands and a backing of lush hills.

Scuba diving

Over time Malta has gained a reputation as one of the best places to dive in Europe and even the world. Its clear waters allow for high visibility, so those who strap on the tanks can go and see th many caves, the submerged rockery, and the resplendent reefs, all of which come filled with a plumage of interesting marine life.

Notably, Malta is also home to a number of wreckage sites of aircraft and ships. A whopping 15 of those are now popular diving sites. Famous spots include Cirkewwa and The Blue Hole, a 15-meter-deep rock pool with underwater caves.

Malta’s diving spots run the gamut from beginner to expert level, so there’s something suitable for all levels of abilities. On top of that, the relative lack of tides and hidden currents, matched with warm weather, make it a great year-round diving destination. There are plenty of schools for those wishing to learn, especially in Valletta, St Paul, and Buggiba.

Diverse cuisine

Maltese food is a symphony of flavors that draws in influences from as wide and far as North Africa, Spain, Italy, and England. It’s a product of thousands of years of invasion and counter-invasion, which had the effect of bringing exotic spices from Arabia and more earthy cooking methods from Northern Europe alike.

So, get ready to sample things like:

• Ftira biż-Żejt – Malta’s answer to the sandwich, this is made with a local type of crunchy bread and filled with a salsa of olives, onions, parsley, mint, and anchovies.
• Stuffat tal-Fenek – Rabbit stew. Hearty, filling, homey, but with a hint of cinnamon and paprika.
• Bigilla – Nope, you’re not in Mexico, this bean paste is an island fav, with hints of fresh mountain herbs.
• Torta tal-Lampuki – The locals pack this buttered pastry with maho-maho, olives, and capers.

Malta is also smack dab in the heart of the Mediterranean, which means there’s oodles of seafood to go around (check for the fresh catch of the day at the taverns close to the seashore for the best) and oodles of citrus fruit to boot.

Malta isn’t just about tasting unique food, you know? The islands also boast a history of winemaking that goes back something like 500 years. It’s thought that the Knights of Saint John instituted the first vineyards in the country during their tenure on Malta in the 16 th century. Despite the British actually uprooting Malta’s grapes in favor of more lucrative crops like cotton later on, there’s been a recent resurgence in the art and there’s now plenty to sample…

With a distinctly Mediterranean terroir – hot summers, wet winters – the vineyards here are known for their high yields. They predominantly grow Grenache and Syrah grapes, with a heavy focus on fruity, mineral-rich reds. Check out some of the wineries below if you fancy making a day of it:

• Marsovin Winery – A gorgeous winery with funny and friendly guides ready to host tasting sessions.
• Tal-Massar Winery – One of the few wineries on Gozo, this one has a stunning location on the north end of the island.
• Meridiana Wine Estate – This grand vineyard does tasting sessions with food platters. It’s the posh option.

While Valletta might hit the headlines with its medieval castles and whatnot, there’s a whole wonderworld awaiting in the Maltese backcountry. We’re talking dusty ridges, rolling hills dotted with gallery woods, undulating farm fields ringed by drystone walls, and craggy coastlines beset by cliffs and rock arches. It’s a mecca for those who like to escape the city.

Both Malta island and Gozo are great options for walkers. The first is better explored, has more marked trails, and better accessibility. The latter is for those who really want to get away from it all, offering less-trodden paths that lead to hidden coves and things.

Check out these top Malta hikes:

• Slugs Bay Beach Loop – This loop of northwest Malta offers views of the neighboring island and drops through an incredible staircase cut into the cliffs.
• Gebel Ben Gorg Cliffs – Go remote on Gozo with this craggy cliff walk.
• Marsaskala to Marsaxlokk – A particularly awesome part of the Malta coastline, offering views across the south of the Med.

The cost of a trip to Malta varies a lot depending on the time of year you visit. The off-season is between September and May. During that, you’re likely to see the price of everything from accommodation to tours to flights over to the island dip considerably, although Christmas and New Year are the exceptions.

That said, Malta is hardly a bank-buster even during the summer. A mid-range hotel in June or July will likely cost between $80 and $100 a night. What’s more, there are plenty of family-sized farmhouses and villas dotted across the island, which may prove more economical if traveling in a larger group.

More generally, we’d estimate that you need about €60-90 ($67-100) per person, per day in Malta for a pretty good holiday. That puts the country roughly in line with others in Southern Europe (Italy, Greece) but also makes it cheaper than France, Germany, and the UK.

Island hopping

Malta is as an archipelago, meaning that it consists of a number of islands, in this case three. Malta itself is the main and the largest island of the bunch, and the home of the capital of Valletta. For that reason, it’s the most visited and the most built up, so has an abundance of hotel resorts, restaurants, and attractions, not to mention the main airport.

But it’s actually real easy to hop between the other islands of Comino and Gozo. Both can be reached within 30 minutes by ferry from the ports on the northern side of Malta. Gozo is slightly smaller than Malta and prides itself on its peaceful and relaxing nature. Comino is the smallest of the inhabited islands, and is home to only a handful of people. Both offer opportunities for exploration as well as clear waters and beautiful beaches.

Basically what we’re saying here is that you get three islands for the price of one in Malta, and it’s a great adventure for those who want to go on a mini Mediterranean island-hopping adventure.

The history

History oozes from every carved portico on the great cathedrals and every gothic apse in the grand castles of Malta and its towns. Valletta is the place to begin. It’s one of the most striking capitals in Europe, perched like a Game of Thrones citadel above the sloshing waters of the Med. It’s all UNESCO tagged and has an entire old town that’s been virtually unchanged since the days it was a Christian fortress back in the 15th and 14th centuries.

Don’t miss the majestic St. John’s Co-Cathedral , said to be one of the prettiest churches in Europe, it’s home to The Beheading of Saint John – the revered masterwork by Caravaggio. There’s also Fort St Elmo, which hosts the national war museum, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens, which were used by the medieval knights as a lookout post and relaxation area.

But it’s not all about the capital. Escape to the town of Mdina and you’ll find an equally as immersive spot. There, weaving, winding alleys ring around a venerable town center that was built largely by the Moors of North Africa. Then there’s the Baroque city of Victoria, which sports glowing honey-tinged domes and houses galore.

Is Malta good for tourists?

Malta is a great spot for tourists with something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you want to relax on the beach or take part in an adrenaline-filled activity, you certainly won’tt be bored in Malta. The consistently good weather make it an ideal location to visit at any time of the year, and the range of delicious food, at affordable prices means you can enjoy your trip without breaking the bank.

How many days do you need in Malta?

You can quite easily explore the main island of Malta in just a couple of days. Other islands – Gozo especially – are just a short 30-minute ferry ride away, so you can always incorporate those as day trips. That said, we’d say the prime amount of time to spend in Malta is between seven and 14 days.

What is Malta famous for?

Malta is famous for a number of things, but perhaps mainly it’s the Mediterranean climate, which means sunshine on more than 300 days of the year! On top of that, Malta’s capital in Valletta is one of the most famous in the world, with a UNESCO tag and stunning medieval architecture throughout.

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Home » Destinations » Europe » Malta » 10 Must-Knows When Travelling to Malta For the First Time

10 Must-Knows When Travelling to Malta For the First Time

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Great Tips for Travelling to Malta For the First Time!

Lots of people ask “is Malta worth visiting?” and we think the answer is absolutely! From the rocky beaches to exploring the famous capital, Valletta, Malta is an fascinating country that is great for all travel styles. 

That said, there are a few things to know about Malta before you visit and knowing these things can make your trip go as smooth as possible.

Eric visited Malta on a trip and explored basically the whole country so we love talking about Malta and have written quite a few Malta travel articles. Let’s travel to Malta!

Table of Contents

General Information About Malta

Malta is country made up of a whole bunch of islands (an archipelago) with the three main ones being Malta, Gozo, and Comino. The country has played a HUGE role in shaping (and we’re not exaggerating here) written human history.

There are temples on Malta that are 5000 years old and considered the oldest freestanding structures remaining on earth.

The island has been ruled by basically everyone in the region at one point or another, had real medieval knights, was a British colony, played a significant role in both World Wars, and is now a member of the European Union. So, there is a TON of amazing history to learn about when you visit.

That said, the country is TINY.  You can basically drive end to end on the main island in like an hour (without traffic congestion).

Valletta, the capital city, is the smallest European capital by land area, and the whole country is only about 450,000 people total. Other larger centres are Sliema, St Julian’s, Bugibba, and Victoria, the capital of the island of Gozo.

Weather in Malta

If you want the sunshine, Malta is, admittedly, the place to go. Malta averages over 300 sunny days a year – which is among the highest rates in all of Europe.

The best time for weather to visit Malta is June through to August when the temperatures are around 25-27 degrees Celsius. Having said that, this season is super busy so consider travelling in the shoulder season in April or May before the rush of summer.

Eric went there in April and it was still hot enough to swim and sunbathe. Plenty hot. The other shoulder season is September to November BUT these months can see more rain so just a heads up.

You can go in the winter months but it’s cooler and many resorts and attractions are closed down for the season. As a general tip, wear sunscreen and stay hydrated – but we cover more Malta safety tips further down.

Visa Information to Visit Malta

If you are travelling to Malta for tourism, you should think about if your passport requires a travel visa or not to get into the country. Malta is located in the Schengen Zone of Europe.

The Schengen Zone is an area in continental Europe (plus a few other island countries) of 26 countries that allow free movement between them once you’re in any of them.

Most major non-European passports (Canadian, America, Australian, etc) follow the Schengen “visa-free rules” of staying in the Zone for 90 days within a span of 180 total days.

So most short trips to Malta are probably covered if this is you. BUT always check the visa restrictions for your passport with your country’s government/embassy before leaving!

If you need a visa for the Schengen Zone, you will have to apply beforehand. Malta is also in the EU so all Europeans can just show up no problem.

Paying and Tipping In Malta

The currency that is used in Malta is the Euro. You can find cash machines at banks or money exchanges in larger centres and touristy areas. If you do pay in cash, try to have smaller bills – 50 Euro notes or smaller.

The major credit cards are widely accepted as a form of payment (Eric bought aloe gel for a sunburn at a tiny stand and they had a card machine) but have a bit of cash available just in case for purchases made on the beach or in a small market.

If you are eating out or taking a cab, tipping in Malta is at a standard 10% but you can go a bit higher for excellent service.

Plugs/Electronics Used in Malta

As a former British colony, the plugs used in Malta are Type G – or the three prong style used in the UK and NOT in mainland Europe. The voltage used is 230 volts.  

That means if you’re coming from North America or other parts of Europe, you will need an adapter for your style of plug. Most electronics you’ll be bringing along can handle a range of voltage from 110 to 240 V and it’ll say on the label.

If your electronic isn’t compatible for a 230-volt plug (most should be, but check) then you’ll need BOTH a converter AND an adapter. Buying a travel adapter that handles different voltages can save you some worry.

You can find an adapter like that here.  It even includes USB ports for charging smaller electronics (cameras, phones, etc).

Getting To/Around Malta

Malta has one major airport ( Malta International Airport ) and that is the main way in and out of the country. You can take the ferry from like Italy but this isn’t common. 

As for getting around once you are there using public transportation, you take the bus. There are no trains on Malta so don’t expect to hop on a train between cities. It’s the bus or you are walking!

Public Transportation in Malta

As for the bus around Malta, they are green and you cannot miss them. Our advice is to hang on tight if you are standing. The buses are safe and not always on time (this is “Malta time” which we explain below in the culture section).

They always do come, just be prepared to arrive early to the bus stop cause it might be early – and be prepared to wait longer cause it might be late! This is also season depending and route dependent. In short, the bus is a great option if you aren’t in a hurry.

There’s the  official website of Malta Transportation  – they offer a variety of passes and show you the routes and timetables.

Ferry Crossing to Gozo

Since Malta and Gozo are two separate islands, you have to take the ferry to Gozo to check it out. We have now written a very detailed guide on taking the ferry from Malta to Gozo (and back) which you should check out if you have questions.

In short, the ferry port is in Cirkewwa – which is at the north end of the main island of Malta. The ferry takes you to Mgarr Harbour in Gozo.

You can check here for the Gozo ferry schedule and ticket prices . It’s pretty easy to figure out once you are there. Eric did that and just hopped on the next ferry!

Private Car/Taxi Hire

There are also private car hires and taxis on Malta which are quite common since there is no other option besides the bus or your own rental car (see below).

There are official white taxis around the island. Just make sure they are using the meter during your trip.

If you are heading anywhere major, there is usually a flat fee – like from the airport to literally any of the major cities/towns. You can learn more about those  flat fees here  at the Airport Website.

If you are into the idea of a car hire, there are private cars or “black cars”. These cars can be cheaper than taxis and they usually get arranged through a hotel reception or a simple call.

Eric had his hostel arrange a black car pick-up from the airport and it was so simple and cheap for three people. A popular way to arrange these is through  eCabs .

Driving in Malta + Renting a Car in Malta

While on the topic of getting around Malta, you can also drive. If you are planning to drive while in Malta, you should know that – like in the UK, Australia, New Zealand – driving is done so on the left.

Again, thank the former British rule for this! Eric found drivers to be a little impatient in the centres but once you got out into the open country it’s fine.

The major roads are well kept but there are tons of little side paths to beaches, view points, etc that are rugged and just stone/dirt roads. Drive them at your own risk.

Renting a car is not uncommon in Malta and you can do that right from the airport. However, the Rule of Thumb for renting a car in Malta is rent one if you are a confident driver and you know the route.

If this is your first time renting a car, DON’T start in Malta. You can  compare rental car prices in Malta here , if needed.

Safety in Malta

Generally, Malta is a very safe European country. Of course, all places come with their risks.

Crime rates are pretty low in Malta but petty crime – like pick-pocketing – does happen in touristy areas. Just be sure to watch your belongings when in larger crowds/markets and you should be fine.

If you are near the coastal regions, be careful hiking along the cliff edges. Flip flops won’t do it on loose rocks – you need a good hiking shoe like Lisa has .

If you are swimming, follow the swimming codes for beaches or do what the locals are doing if you are just going in off the rocky shoreline. Currents can be dangerous in the winter and never swim alone.

Speaking of rocky, the rocks to enter the ocean in places can be very slippery and sharp so watch your footing as you enter/exit using the rock ledges. Cliff jumping can be very dangerous since you may not be able to judge the water’s depth.

When it comes to sun safety, always wear sunscreen or stay covered with a hat/umbrella. Remember to drink plenty of water throughout the hot days. We always have our water bottles with us in our reliable day pack and they are always full!

Staying hydrated is important – even if you are in the shade. Locals even avoid the sun at mid day since it’s just that hot.

Speaking of water, you can usually drink the tap water in Malta BUT always ask if you are unsure. Most people still just buy bottled water or have a filter system in their home.

Hotels usually have a system in place (bottled or filter) and will let you know the proper course of action. Again, just ask your host if you are unsure.

Speaking English in Malta

If you’re travelling to Malta,  you should know that there are two official languages: Maltese and English. English is the second-most spoken language so you shouldn’t have a problem conversing with locals.

You will definitely find English in all touristy areas and larger towns/centres in the country. Members of the older generation might be the ones who are not comfortable speaking English, however.

That said, (fun fact) – Italian WAS an official language so there are people on the island who can converse in Italian, and even French, to a lesser degree.

If you are reading this, though, you are likely an English speaker. Go with that – but don’t be afraid to learn a few basic Maltese words.

Maltese History & Culture

The Maltese people (especially the older generation) are strongly religious. As a whole, the country is a reserved and modest place (with a few exceptions – going out on the town in Paceville..).

Because of the reserved culture, topless sunbathing/swimming is illegal in Malta. So if you do that and are used to that – it’s “tops on” for ladies in Malta.

Along with that, make sure you are respectful when you travel and visit places. If you are visiting religious sites (churches), be sure to be dressed/covered appropriately.

Shoulders covered and closed toes shoes are recommended. Basically don’t visit a church in a tank top and flip flops.

As for Maltese culture, “Malta time” is a thing. Basically, going back to talking about the buses – the country moves at a more relaxed pace.

This laid back atmosphere can be infuriating to “go go go” North Americans so it’s always nice to step out of your bubble and enter into a completely different culture. Just go with the flow and you will be fine.

The food is wonderful with fresh produce available all over the country. Given the location in the Mediterranean, seafood is fresh and abundant. Definitely try the seafood.

You can learn about the historic fishing culture if you head to Marsaxlokk for the famous Sunday Fish Market .

Related Articles

If you’re planning a trip to Malta, have a look at some of our other articles as well:

• Plan Your Perfect Malta Itinerary from 3 to 10 Days
• Things to Do in Malta’s Capital City Valletta
• Places to Visit in Malta
• Sightseeing on Gozo
• Where to Stay in Malta
• Where to Stay on Gozo
• Must-Knows When Taking The Ferry from Malta to Gozo

And there you have it  – 10 things you should think about before travelling to Malta! We love Malta – and think that it’s a great country that many people should experience once in their lifetime.

We’re always happy to share our travel knowledge  about a place – but Malta is extra cool! We can’t wait to return soon and write all about our experiences again.

As always, Happy Malta Waddling!

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Sicily - Malta

Hi all, We'll be ending 6 weeks of travel in Italy in Catania, Sicily during October, 2021 which includes a structured (with a tour company) tour of Sicily. When the tour ends in Catania we'd like to go over to Malta for about a week. We need to return to Catania for our direct flight to Milan. Do we take a ferry or fly round trip Catania/Valletta/Catania? Which ferry -- I haven't been successful searching schedules online. Direct flights look very limited. This should be easy to do -- is it?

Also, I'm seeking suggestions on where to stay in Malta and things to see/do not to be missed. Since we'll be coming off of 6+weeks of travel we'd like a nice, comfortable place (hotel or short term apt rental) to stay preferably with a view and if hotel great breakfast.

Help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Just take the 40 minute flight from Catania to Malta via Malta Air, it's by far the easiest option (otherwise you'll have to trek all the way down to the southernmost tip of Sicily to catch the ferry). I would stay in Valetta and get yourself either a Bradt Travel Guide to Malta or Lonely Planet (and also check out the Malta and Gozo tourism websites).

I stayed at the Barakka Suites but it was an apartment, so no breakfast ( http://www.booking.com/Share-Yi16Ir ). Look on Booking.com, lots of options out there.

Hypogeum (requires advanced reservations; limited number of people), neolithic temples, Mdina/ Rabat, Valetta, Three Cities, Naxxar, and Gozo were the highlights for me.

I enjoyed staying in Gozo and walking across the island, and while on Malta I also enjoyed staying in beautiful Valletta, but my hotel rec would be out of date. My to-do list was neolithic temples and Mdina. I missed the hypogeum by failing to reserve (regret that!).

I haven't actually been to Malta (yet) as it keeps getting postponed along with our month in Sicily. However, I can suggest the book "Malta and Gozo" by Juliet Rix. The most recent edition is 2019, but there's a website in the book where travelers can add updates. It's a really complete guide for everything from the practical like transportation, health and which adapter plug to bring (the British one) to where to stay and what to see. visitmalta.com and mta.com.mt both have good information, too.

This is from the book: [ferries] take as little as 1.5 hours to cross from Pozzalo on Sicily or 3-4 hours including a coach transfer from Catania. The company is called Virtu Ferries. Website is www.virtuferries.com We planned to take the ferry from Pozzalo, as we were staying in Casale Zappulla for a few days. Try Air Malta or Ryan Air. Looks like they both do the trip.

We haven't stayed there (yet), but the staff at the Ursulino were lovely and upgraded us after they messed up our reservation for a handicap access room. Too bad we didn't get the chance to use it!

I would definitely fly. It was quick and easy and, at the time I looked, flights were cheaper than ferry tickets.

However, we were frankly underwhelmed by our visit to Malta. We didn’t find it to be relaxing and didn’t find good food there. If I were coming off 6 weeks of travel, I would spend that final week in Sicily, either on the island of Lipari or in the town of Ortigia. Either would give you the views, the food & the relaxation you need at that point.

After 5 or so weeks in Italy, I think that Malta would be an interesting change of pace. We spend 18 nights in Malta in January/early February 2020 and used the Brandt guidebook for planning.

Malta is spread out and it tough for us to decide where to stay. Public transportation is good and you can get almost anywhere on bus or ferry. For a short trip many stay in Valletta - it's near the main bus station hub. Because we were staying longer was picked Sliema and stayed in a hotel close to the ferry stop - Pebbles Boutique Aparthotel. We had a nice apartment with a separate bedroom and kitchen where we could have breakfast, cook a basic meal or have a place to eat a take-out meal. It was a good value - we had a nice view of the harbor but from across a busy street. One thing to know is that there are several bars located on the street below the hotel and they get noisy at night. We were careful to book a room at the back of the hotel and it was very quiet. We really liked this location for it's convenience to the ferry stop to Valletta - breakfast is not served there but there are many coffee shops nearby and grocery stores for supplies.

If you like history and archaeology, there is lots to see - the many Museums, the Hypogeum, Fort St. Elmo, Cathedrals, Tarxien Temples, Mdina, Rabat, etc. it's all very interesting. We attended a concert at Manoel Theater which is a beautiful performance hall. Exploring the many different regions is fun - we only took a daytrip to Gozo but I know that others have enjoyed spending more time there.

We flew Malta Air from Malta to Catania - it's a quick flight - easier than taking the ferry.

This is pre-covid, of course, but the best way was the fast ferry between Sicily and Valletta. Unfortunately that ferry works from Pozzallo in Sicily, which is not very convenient if starting from Catania. Given that is where you start, I would fly. The Malta Airport is well located to then get to Valletta or wherever else on the main island you want to be. Obviously, if you're going to Gozo, it is a bit of a trek, but not difficult.

So far as where to stay, I'd look at Valletta or nearby (e.g. Floriana or similar), since that puts you convenient for many of the principal sights and the easiest public transport / tourist bus hub for the rest of the island.

I'd second the advice to get the Bradt guidebook. They are certainly the best guides around (at least of those written in English), but sadly don't bother with much of continental Europe. In this case, however, you're in luck as they have one for Malta.

There is a lot to see in Malta, despite its dinky size. So it is worth sketching out a rough trip before arriving.

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