best places to visit in malta for couples

15 Best Things to Do in Malta for Couples

Looking for the best things to do in Malta for couples?

This guide is for you!

Malta is the ultimate romantic getaway destination. With its cobbled streets, beautiful beaches, and all-year-round great weather, you can easily see why.

However, there are so many activities to do and places to explore that it can be challenging to know where is actually worth your time.

To help you have the best trip to Malta, let’s take a look at the top things you should consider seeing and doing. By the end of this guide, I’m sure you will have plenty of epic places to add to your itinerary!

1. Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon in Malta is a captivating natural wonder that should undoubtedly be on the list of any couple seeking a romantic and memorable experience.

Located on the small island of Comino, situated between Malta and Gozo, the Blue Lagoon is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white sandy beaches, and breathtaking scenery.

You can get here really easily from Valletta and other parts of the Island so makes for one amazing day trip.

Various boat trips and water activities are available at the Blue Lagoon, offering couples the opportunity to explore the surrounding areas. For an even better time here, book a private Comino, Blue Lagoon, and Crystal Lagoon tour . They are more affordable than you’d think!

For the ultimate experience, stay during the evening when the sun begins to set. This is the best light to truly admire the Island and get some epic photos!

2. Mdina Old City

Mdina is the ancient capital of Malta, commonly known as the “Silent City,”. For couples seeking romantic and historic experiences, a visit to Mdina Old City should be at the top of their list.

As you stroll through its narrow cobblestone streets, you will be surrounded by centuries-old architecture, including medieval palaces, Baroque churches, and charming courtyards. From amazing places to eat and boutique shops, you will find plenty to do.

The best part is the views. Mdina is perched on a hill, providing panoramic views of the Maltese countryside and distant sea. The best time to admire these views is during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. 

3.  St John’s Co-Cathedral

St. John’s Co-Cathedral, located in the heart of Valletta, Malta, is a cultural and architectural gem and a great way to spend a few hours.

Visiting the Cathedral provides you with a deep dive into Maltese culture and the influence of the Knights of St. John. The cathedral’s architecture and art also reflect the island’s historical ties to various European cultures. 

For a quick lesson in Maltese history, this is a great stop to gain a better understanding. Just remember this is still a religious place so wear appropriate clothing.

4. Valletta Waterfront at night

Valletta Waterfront, especially at night, offers couples a magical and romantic setting that is hard to beat. This area of Valletta also provides panoramic views of the Grand Harbor, one of the most iconic harbors in the Mediterranean. 

The historic buildings along the waterfront are beautifully illuminated at night creating the most amazing atmosphere. The soft glow of lights against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea is perfect for a romantic evening stroll.

To make the most of this location, book an evening boat tour so you can truly admire what Valletta looks like at night. You will also find some amazing places to eat and grab a drink afterwards but it may be worth booking a table in advance.

For more details and recommendations on exploring Valletta, check out this comprehensive guide on the best things to do in the city: Best Things to Do in Valletta Guide

5. Dingli Cliffs

Dingli Cliffs, located on the western coast of Malta, should undoubtedly be part of the itinerary for anyone seeking a romantic and naturally stunning location. 

The cliffs are surrounded by walking trails that lead to various vantage points, allowing couples to explore this area at their own pace. Just be careful on a windy day as they can pick up speed here. 

One of the best things to do here is enjoy a picnic full of local Maltese delicacies. There are many designated areas you can sit and relax or you can find your secluded spot. 

The main reason people visit Dingli Cliffs is because they are renowned for offering some of the most romantic sunset views on the island. It’s recommended to bring a camera here because the sea views and landscape around it are a haven for nature lovers.

6. Tal-Massar Winery

Tal-Massar Winery, nestled in the idyllic Maltese countryside, is a hidden gem that should be on any itinerary for couples looking to savor the best of Malta.

This is one of the best things to do in Malta for couples because it allows you to experience the smells and tastes of rural Malta.

The winery provides guided tours, allowing couples to explore the vineyards, wine cellars, and production facilities. A knowledgeable guide can share insights into the winemaking process, the history of the vineyard, and the unique characteristics of Maltese grapes. 

This is the perfect few hours for anyone who has a true appreciation for wine!

You will also get the opportunity to indulge in a wine-tasting session, where you can sample a variety of locally produced wines only found in Malta.

Visiting the stunning island of Gozo is a must for couples looking to enhance their experience while exploring Malta. Gozo, Malta’s smaller sister island, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and a laid-back atmosphere that creates an ideal setting for a romantic getaway. 

The island’s slower pace of life provides a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle. It is characterized by stunning landscapes that include rugged cliffs, charming valleys, and pristine beaches.

The Azure Window, although unfortunately collapsed in 2017, is still a major attraction. Nonetheless, places like Ramla Bay and Ta’ Pinu Basilica, also offer breathtaking views. 

A real highlight of Gozo is its hidden beaches, secluded coves, and safe waters . Ramla Bay, with its red sandy beach, and San Blas Bay, accessible by a scenic walk, are some of the best spots for couples to enjoy a beach day.

Exploring Malta’s stunning coast via a full-day cruise from Bugibba to Gozo and Comino is the top activity in the region.

8. Barrakka Gardens

Barrakka Gardens, located in the heart of Valletta, Malta, is undeniably one of the best things for couples to experience during their visit.

This is the best spot in the city to see the majestic fortifications, historic buildings, and traditional Maltese boats with limited crowds.

You can take the Upper Barrakka Lift to reach the gardens from the Grand Harbor waterfront. The short ride offers a unique experience as you travel through the limestone bastions of Valletta

9. The Blue Grotto 

The Blue Grotto, located on the southern coast of Malta, stands out as one of the top experiences for couples visiting the island. 

The waters surrounding the Grotto are exceptionally clear, allowing you to easily explore the underwater world beneath them. The visibility is excellent, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling or simply admiring marine life. 

It is best experienced through boat trips that navigate through the sea caves. For a more intimate experience with a local guide, it’s recommended to book a private tour. 

The Blue Grotto is also located near other attractions, such as the Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra Temples. For a great day out, combine your visit here with these other sites. 

10. Popeyes Village

Popeye Village is a film set that was built for the 1980 musical production “Popeye,” starring Robin Williams. As the set is built into a cove, you will never experience something like it.

The village features vibrant and colorful wooden structures standing out from the cliff. It is also perched on the edge of Anchor Bay, providing stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

If you want to take amazing photos on your trip, this is the place to do it!

You can pay to visit the village which is full of buildings that were used in the film like the school and post office. You can even experience a boat ride here which is super popular with those travelling as a couple or family.

However, you do not have to enter the set to truly admire how stunning this location is. You can take some epic photos on the cliff near the car park.

Popeyes Village is a great place to stop by on the way to some other great places in the area like the Red Tower. It is also super easy to reach from Valletta and other parts of Malta. 

11. The Three Cities

The Three Cities, composed of Vittoriosa (Birgu), Senglea (Isla), and Cospicua (Bormla), form a historic and culturally rich region in Malta that offers couples a great day out.

Exploring The Three Cities is undoubtedly one of the best things for couples to do during their visit to Malta. From the historic alleyways, traditional places to eat, and jaw-dropping views, you will never be bored here.

There is so much to do here that you can easily miss something. To make the most of your time here it’s a good idea to arrange a tour. This way a local guide can help you explore the area and things most tourists know nothing about. 

12. Xwenji Salt Pans

While Xwejni Salt Pans might not be as well-known as some of Malta’s more popular attractions, it offers one of the most authentic experiences on the Island. 

Located along the picturesque north coast of Gozo, here you will find a truly scenic and tranquil setting. You only need to spend an hour here but it is well worth it!

Xwejni Salt Pans are part of a centuries-old tradition of salt production in Malta. Here you can witness the intricate process of harvesting sea salt, involving the use of salt pans where seawater is evaporated to leave behind natural salt crystals.

To remember your experience, make sure you purchase some salt from the shop opposite the pans before you leave. 

Quadro Restaurant in Saint Julian stands out as one of the best places for couples to dine, offering a combination of exquisite cuisine, warm hospitality, and breathtaking views.

It is renowned for its culinary excellence, offering a menu that blends traditional Maltese flavors with international influences. However, it’s super popular so book a table in advance.

One of Quadro’s standout features is its terrace that overlooks the sea, providing couples with a panoramic and mesmerizing view. The views in this part of Malta are so good that this is where most people decide to stay on their trip .

14. The Black Sheep Drink And Dine

Found in Silema, this spot is undoubtedly one of the best places for couples to enjoy a drink, offering a unique blend of great ambiance, live music, and a cozy atmosphere. 

It has a great selection of wines, beers, and cocktails and even has an amazing happy hour. This is perfect if you like getting value for money on your date night. 

15. Maltese Cooking Class

Booking a Maltese cooking class is a fantastic and immersive experience for couples visiting Malta. It not only provides an opportunity to learn the secrets of traditional Maltese cuisine – that should be high on every ‘ best countries for food ‘ list out there – but also experience how locals eat.

From iconic dishes like rabbit stew (Fenek) to pastries like pastizzi, couples can take home the skills to recreate a taste of Malta in their kitchen.

It’s also a great way to learn customs and traditions through the ingredients, techniques, and stories of true locals. You will be able to find multiple classes across the country but like anything in Malta, it’s a good idea to book experiences in advance. 

The Best Things To Do In Malta For Couples Final Thoughts

Whether you are spending 2 days or 2 weeks in Malta, you will find so many amazing things to fill your itinerary with. 

From discovering hidden beaches with secluded coves and taking leisurely coastal walks along picturesque cliffs to strolling through charming cobbled streets steeped in history, the archipelago provides something for everyone. 

If you are still on the fence and don’t know where to visit, make sure you add Gozo to your list. With its chilled vibe, stunning nature, and pleasant temperatures all year round , it will be the highlight of your trip.

However, it’s worth noting if you are visiting during the summer months, booking your experiences in advance is advised. They do sell out fast and you risk not getting something you want to experience.

Continue exploring alternative European getaways to evade the winter chill .

abettertou.com

10 Most Romantic Places in Malta For Couples

Absolutely! With its picturesque landscapes, historic charm, and enchanting ambiance, Malta is a haven for couples seeking a romantic places in Malta. Imagine wandering through ancient cities hand-in-hand, enjoying sunset strolls along the coastline, or indulging in candlelit dinners overlooking the Mediterranean.

This guide unveils 10 unforgettable locations to spark your love story in Malta, from daytime delights to nighttime enchantment. So, pack your bags and get ready to ignite the flames of love amidst Malta’s romantic splendor!

Is Malta a romantic place?

With its picturesque landscapes, historic charm, and enchanting ambiance, Malta is undoubtedly a romantic destination. Whether it’s wandering through ancient cities hand in hand, enjoying sunset strolls along the coastline,

or indulging in candlelit dinners overlooking the Mediterranean, Malta offers countless opportunities for couples to create cherished memories and rekindle their love amidst its romantic setting.

Best Time to Visit Malta?

Planning a trip to Malta? Choosing the best time to visit is crucial for an unforgettable experience. Here’s a list highlighting the ideal seasons to explore this Mediterranean gem:

• Spring (March to May): Experience pleasant weather with blooming flowers, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
• Early Summer (June): Enjoy warm temperatures and fewer crowds before the peak tourist season begins.
• Late Summer (September to October): Experience the last of the summer warmth with fewer tourists, making it ideal for exploring Malta’s attractions without the crowds.
• Winter (November to February): Although cooler, winter in Malta offers mild temperatures, making it suitable for cultural exploration and outdoor adventures without the summer crowds.

Regardless of when you choose to visit, Malta’s charm and beauty are sure to captivate you year-round.

Related Articles

20 Most Romantic Places in Portugal A Guide to Love

20 Most Romantic Places in Croatia Romantic Gems

Romantic Places in Malta For Couples

1. upper barrakka gardens, valletta.

Immerse yourselves in breathtaking panoramas and historic charm. Perched atop the bastions of Valletta, the Upper Barrakka Gardens offer a delightful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Stroll hand-in-hand through meticulously landscaped gardens, bursting with colorful flowers and fragrant citrus trees.

Unwind on a secluded bench, soak in the mesmerizing panorama of the Grand Harbour, and witness the daily Saluting Battery Ceremony – a historic spectacle that adds a touch of grandeur to your visit.

• Address:  Upper Barrakka Gardens, Valletta, Malta
• Pro Tip: Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a leisurely afternoon amidst the vibrant blooms, savoring breathtaking panoramic views of the Grand Harbour.

2. Mdina, The Silent City

Step back in time and explore a captivating medieval city. Nicknamed “The Silent City,” Mdina car-free lanes and ancient architecture create an atmosphere of serenity, perfect for a romantic stroll.

Wander through the golden-hued alleyways, marvel at the imposing bastions, and lose yourselves in the timeless charm of this captivating city.pen_spark

• Address:  Mdina, Malta
• Pro Tip:  Explore the narrow, winding streets early in the morning to relish the tranquility of Mdina.

3. Blue Grotto, Wied iż-Żurrieq

Embark on a boat trip and witness a mesmerizing natural wonder. The Blue Grotto is a series of sea caverns renowned for their ethereal beauty.

As sunlight filters through the water, the cave’s interior illuminates in a dazzling array of blues, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle. Hold hands with your loved one and be mesmerized by the mesmerizing interplay of light and water.

Pro Tip: Take a boat tour to witness the mesmerizing play of light that transforms the cave’s interior into a magical spectacle.

4. Dingli Cliffs

Unwind on the highest point of Malta and enjoy breathtaking coastal views. Gaze out at the endless expanse of the Mediterranean Sea, feel the refreshing sea breeze caress your face, and share a romantic moment as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in a kaleidoscope of colors.

Pro Tip: Visit Dingli Cliffs during sunset for breathtaking vistas painted in fiery hues of orange and pink.pen_spark

5. San Anton Gardens

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life with a visit to San Anton Gardens in Attard. These lush gardens, surrounding the historic San Anton Palace, offer a serene oasis for couples to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Meander through manicured lawns, shady groves, and ornamental ponds as you admire exotic plants and indigenous flora. Find a secluded spot beneath the canopy of trees to steal a kiss or simply enjoy each other’s company in this romantic setting.

Address: San Anton Gardens, Attard, Malta Pro Tip: Visit in spring to see the gardens in full bloom with colorful flowers and fragrant blossoms.

6. Marsaxlokk Fishing Village

Attard: Immerse yourselves in a romantic haven of tranquility. San Anton Gardens is a sprawling baroque masterpiece boasting manicured lawns, ornamental ponds, and a variety of flora.

Explore the gardens at your own pace, marvel at the intricate statues and fountains, or opt for a charming horse-drawn carriage ride for a touch of fairytale romance.pen_spark

Address: Marsaxlokk , Malta Pro Tip: Visit on Sunday mornings to experience the vibrant fish market and enjoy fresh seafood by the waterfront.

Romantic Spots in Malta

Malta, with its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and charming towns, offers couples a myriad of romantic spots to explore. Here are two more romantic spots in Malta to enhance your getaway:

7. St. Julian’s Bay

Explore a charming village and savor fresh seafood. Venture to the quaint fishing village of Marsaxlokk and soak in the authentic Maltese charm. Stroll along the picturesque harbor lined with colorful Luzzu boats, traditional Maltese fishing vessels.

Browse through the bustling Sunday fish market, teeming with fresh seafood, and savor a delicious meal at a waterfront restaurant, enjoying the idyllic harbor views with your special someone.

Pro Tip: Visit Marsaxlokk on a Sunday to witness the vibrant fish market overflowing with the day’s fresh catch.

8. The Three Cities

Discover a trio of fortified towns steeped in history. Cospicua, Senglea, and Vittoriosa, collectively known as the Three Cities , boast a rich history and offer a glimpse into Malta’s maritime past.

Explore the labyrinthine streets, imposing bastions, and charming harbor areas, hand-in-hand with your partner.

Pro Tip: Consider a guided walking tour to delve deeper into the fascinating history of the Three Cities.

Romantic Places in Malta at night

As the sun sets and the stars twinkle overhead, Malta transforms into a romantic haven, offering couples enchanting experiences to cherish. Here are two romantic places in Malta to explore after dark:

9. Valletta Waterfront

Savor delightful harbor views and a vibrant atmosphere. The Valletta Waterfront is a bustling hub lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, marvel at the majestic yachts moored in the harbor, and enjoy a romantic dinner with breathtaking views.

Pro Tip: For a truly special experience, book a table at a waterfront restaurant and enjoy a candlelit dinner under the stars.

10. Mdina at Night

Witness the Silent City transformed by a magical glow. As dusk descends, Mdina takes on a whole new charm. The golden-hued buildings are illuminated in a soft light, creating a romantic and enchanting atmosphere.

Stroll hand-in-hand through the narrow streets, stopping to admire the panoramic views of the illuminated towns below.

Pro Tip: Enjoy a pre-dinner drink at a rooftop bar in Mdina, taking in the breathtaking night-time panorama.

Conclusion: Cherishing Love Amidst Malta’s Romantic Splendor

As our journey through Malta’s romantic spots comes to a close, it’s evident that this Mediterranean paradise is a haven for couples seeking intimate getaways and unforgettable experiences.

From the historic streets of Valletta to the tranquil shores of the Blue Grotto, Malta’s charm and beauty set the stage for romance to flourish. Whether it’s a sunset stroll along the coast or a candlelit dinner overlooking the Grand Harbour,

the romantic places in Malta offer endless opportunities to create cherished moments and lifelong memories with your loved one. So, immerse yourselves in the enchanting ambiance of Malta and let the magic of this island destination ignite the flames of love.

You may also like...

10 Most Romantic Things to Do in Tahoe

10 Most Romantic Places in Baguio Journey of Love

20 Most Romantic Places in Poland Journey of Love

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Home » Best Of » Malta » The Most Romantic Things to Do in Malta: A Guide for Couples

The Most Romantic Things to Do in Malta: A Guide for Couples

Last Updated: Jul 04, 2023 Reading Time: 11 minutes By: Shaun

Malta is a small island nation in the Mediterranean Sea, but it has a lot to offer couples who are looking for a romantic getaway. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, you will find something to suit your taste and budget in Malta. In this article, we will show you some of the best things to do in Malta for a memorable and romantic trip with your partner.

Visit the historic and charming Mdina

Mdina is the former capital of Malta and one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Europe. It is also known as the Silent City, because of its peaceful and serene atmosphere. Mdina is a perfect place to stroll around with your loved one and discover its rich history and architecture.

Explore the narrow streets and mediaeval buildings

Mdina is surrounded by high walls and has only one main gate, which gives it a sense of exclusivity and mystery. Inside, you will find a maze of narrow streets and alleys lined with mediaeval buildings, palaces, churches, and museums. You can admire the elegant facades, the ornate balconies, and the colourful doors and windows. Some of the highlights include the Palazzo Falson, the Cathedral Museum, and the Natural History Museum.

Admire the stunning views from the bastions

One of the best things about Mdina is the panoramic views it offers from its bastions, which are fortified towers that overlook the surrounding countryside. You can see the green fields, the hills, the villages, and even the sea from different angles. The best time to enjoy these views is at sunset, when the sky turns into a painting of orange, pink, and purple hues.

Enjoy a romantic carriage ride or a candlelit dinner

If you want to make your visit to Mdina even more romantic, you can treat yourselves to a carriage ride around the city. You can sit back and relax as you listen to the sound of the horses’ hooves and the driver’s stories. Alternatively, you can opt for a candlelit dinner at one of the restaurants in Mdina, such as De Mondion, Medina, or Fontanella. You can savour some delicious Maltese cuisine and wine while enjoying the ambiance and the views.

Experience the beauty and culture of Valletta

Valletta is the current capital of Malta and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a stunning city that combines the charm of the past with the vibrancy of the present. Valletta is full of attractions, activities, and events that will keep you and your partner entertained and amazed.

Marvel at the magnificent St. John’s Co-Cathedral

St. John’s Co-Cathedral is one of the most impressive and important churches in Malta. It was built by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century and it is a masterpiece of Baroque art and architecture. The exterior is simple and austere, but the interior is lavish and ornate, with marble floors, gilded walls, painted ceilings, and exquisite paintings. The highlight is Caravaggio’s masterpiece, The Beheading of St. John the Baptist, which is displayed in the Oratory.

Relax at the Upper Barrakka Gardens and watch the Saluting Battery

The Upper Barrakka Gardens are a lovely spot to relax and enjoy some greenery and fresh air in Valletta. They are located on the highest point of the city walls, and they offer spectacular views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. You can sit on a bench, walk among the flowers and statues, or have a snack at the kiosk. You can also watch the Saluting Battery, which is a ceremonial firing of cannons that takes place every day at noon and 4 p.m.

Take a ferry ride to Sliema or the Three Cities

If you want to explore more of Malta’s coast and culture, you can take a ferry ride from Valletta to Sliema or the Three Cities. Sliema is a modern and lively town that has a lot of shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars. You can also enjoy a walk along the promenade or a swim at one of the rocky beaches. The Three Cities are Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua, which are three historic and picturesque towns that have a lot of character and charm. You can visit their fortifications, museums, churches, and marinas.

Have fun at Popeye Village

Popeye Village is a unique and fun attraction that will make you feel like a kid again. It is the original film set of the 1980 musical Popeye, starring Robin Williams, and it has been converted into a small theme park. You can visit the colourful and quirky wooden houses, meet the characters, watch the shows, and join the activities.

Visit the colourful and quirky film set village

Popeye Village Malta is a sight to behold with its bright and cheerful houses, boats, and props. You can explore the village and see how it was used in the movie. You can also enter some of the houses, such as Popeye’s House, Olive’s House, Wimpy’s House, and Bluto’s House, and see the memorabilia and exhibits. You can also take photos with the characters, such as Popeye, Olive, Wimpy, and Bluto, who roam around the village.

Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Anchor Bay

Popeye Village Malta is located at Anchor Bay, which is a beautiful bay with crystal-clear waters and stunning views. You can swim in the bay or sunbathe on the beach. You can also rent a boat or a kayak and explore the bay from the water. If you are feeling adventurous, you can try the water trampoline, the water slide, or the water zorbing.

Enjoy the entertainment and activities at the fun park

Popeye Village Malta is not just a film set but also a fun park that has a lot of entertainment and activities for all ages. You can watch the Popeye film at the cinema, see the live animation shows at the theatre, play mini golf or giant chess, or join the treasure hunt. You can also enjoy some snacks and drinks at one of the restaurants or bars in the village.

Indulge in a spa day at a resort

The Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz

Malta has many resorts that offer a relaxing and romantic escape for couples. You can find them on different parts of the island, with views of the sea or the countryside. They have a range of facilities and services that will make you feel pampered and rejuvenated.

Pamper yourselves with a range of treatments and massages

Many resorts have a spa centre that offers a variety of treatments and massages for your body and mind. You can choose from facials, body wraps, scrubs, manicures, pedicures, and more. You can also enjoy a couples massage, where you and your partner can relax together in a private room with aromatherapy and soothing music.

Relax in the indoor and outdoor pools, jacuzzi, and sauna

Complementing the spa centre, many establishments have indoor and outdoor pools where you can swim, splash, or lounge. The outdoor pools have different depths and shapes, and some of them have waterfalls, fountains, and slides. The indoor pools are heated and have a jacuzzi and a sauna. Some have access to a private beach, which has sunbeds, umbrellas, and water sports.

Dine at one of the restaurants or bars with sea views

Finally, you can top off your day with a great meal or drink at the many restaurants and bars these resorts offer. Here you can enjoy some delicious food and drinks with sea views, or you can choose food from the buffet or from an à la carte menu. Some offer you the option to have a romantic dinner at a restaurant with a terrace overlooking the bay.

Best resorts in Malta

• Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands : A luxury resort on Golden Bay with spa facilities, pools, restaurants, and bars
• Radisson Blu Resort, Malta St. Julian’s : A modern resort on St. Julian’s Bay with pools, a gym, restaurants, and bars
• Corinthia Hotel St. George’s Bay : A five-star hotel on St. George’s Bay with pools, a spa, a gym, and restaurants.
• The Westin Dragonara Resort : A elegant hotel on a private peninsula with pools, a spa, a casino, and restaurants.
• Ramla Bay Resort : A four-star resort on Ramla Bay with spa treatments, pools, beach access, and restaurants

Discover the natural wonders of Gozo

Gozo is the second-largest island of Malta and a popular destination for nature lovers. It is quieter, greener, and more rural than the main island, and it has a lot of natural beauty, bays, and beaches to explore. You can easily reach Gozo by ferry from Cirkewwa in Malta or the fast ferry from Valletta and enjoy a day or more of adventure and relaxation.

Take a ferry ride to the island of Gozo

On the ferry ride from Malta to Gozo, which takes about 25 minutes from Cirkewwa and 45 minutes from Valletta, you can enjoy the views of the sea and the islands as you cross the Gozo Channel. You can also spot Comino Island and its Blue Lagoon on the way. The ferry arrives at Mgarr Harbour in Gozo, where you can find buses, taxis, or car rentals to get around the island.

Visit the Citadel, a fortified city with panoramic views

The Citadel is one of the most iconic landmarks in Gozo and a must-see attraction. It is a fortified city that dates back to mediaeval times, and it was the seat of power and protection for the island. You can walk along the walls and bastions and admire the panoramic views of Gozo. You can also visit the Cathedral, the museums, the old prison, and the narrow streets inside the Citadel.

Explore the Dwejra

Dwejra used to be the location of The Azure Window, one of Malta’s most famous landmarks, until it collapsed in 2017 due to a storm. However, you can still see its remains underwater, as well as other rock formations, caves, and marine life.

The area has a lot more to offer than just the remains of The Azure Window, like the Inlet Sea (a beach in a landlocked body of water), the Blue Hole (a sinkhole that is one of the most spectacular dives in Malta), and The Dwejra Tower.

Gozo has some of the best beaches and bays in Malta, with different characteristics and atmospheres, so make sure you find the time to relax at beaches or bays such as Ramla Bay, Xlendi Bay, Mġarr Ix-xini, or Hondoq Bay.

Indulge in some wine tasting

Gozo has a long tradition of winemaking, and you can visit some of the wineries and vineyards for wine tasting and tours, like Tal-Massar or Ta’ Mena.

You get to taste different types of wines, such as red, white, rose, or sparkling, and pair them with some cheese, bread, or olives. You can also learn about the history and culture of winemaking in Gozo and the challenges faced by the local farmers.

Extend your stay for more than one day

Gozo is the perfect gateway for couples, and many choose to stay exclusively on the island. You can book yourself into one of the farmhouses or boutique hotels that offer cosy and charming accommodations with traditional architecture and modern amenities. You can enjoy the tranquilly and privacy of these properties and experience the lifestyle of the locals.

You can also find other accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels and resorts to guesthouses and apartments. Some of the best places to stay in Gozo are farmhouses or boutique hotels, which are renovated old houses or villas with character and charm. They are located in rural areas or villages, away from crowds and noise. They have features such as fireplaces, pools, gardens, or terraces.

Enjoy a sunset cruise around Malta’s coast

One of the best ways to end your day in Malta is to enjoy a sunset cruise around its coast. You can admire the beauty of the islands from a different perspective, see the landmarks from the sea, and watch the sun set over the horizon. You can also have some fun and romance on board with music, drinks, and food.

Book a private or shared boat trip with a skipper.

You can choose from different options for your sunset cruise, depending on your budget and preferences. You can book a private boat trip with a skipper, where you can customise your itinerary and have more privacy and comfort. You can also join a shared boat trip with other passengers, where you can socialise and have more fun. You can find different types of boats, such as catamarans, sailboats, yachts, or gulets.

Malta is a wonderful destination for couples who want to have a romantic trip full of history, culture, nature, and adventure. There are so many things to do in Malta for couples that you will never get bored or run out of ideas. You can visit the historic and charming Mdina Old City, experience the beauty and culture of Valletta, have fun at Popeye Village Malta, indulge in a spa day at a resort, discover the natural wonders of Gozo, and enjoy a sunset cruise around Malta’s coast.

These are just some of the best things to do in Malta for couples, but there are many more to explore and enjoy. So book your trip to Malta today and get ready for an unforgettable romantic getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit malta.

Malta has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. The best time to visit Malta depends on your preferences and activities. Generally, spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are ideal for sightseeing, hiking, and outdoor activities, as the weather is pleasant and not too crowded. Summer (June-August) is perfect for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts, as the sea is warm and calm. Winter (December-February) is good for cultural events and festivals, as well as lower prices and fewer tourists.

What are some of the best restaurants in Malta for couples?

Malta has a rich culinary heritage, and some of the best restaurants in Malta for couples are De Mondion (A Michelin-starred restaurant in Mdina); Tarragon (A Mediterranean restaurant in St. Paul's Bay that specialises in seafood and pasta); Barracuda (A historic restaurant in Sliema that serves classic and contemporary dishes with sea views); and Ta' Frenc (A rustic restaurant in Xaghra, Gozo, that offers authentic Maltese cuisine with local ingredients).

Is Malta friendly to gay couples?

Malta is very gay-friendly to gay couples, as it offers them legal and social recognition, protection, and equality. Malta was the first country in Europe to legalise same-sex marriage in 2017, and it also allows same-sex couples to adopt children. Malta has a vibrant and diverse gay scene, with bars, clubs, hotels, and events catering to the LGBTIQ community. Malta is also a beautiful and cultural destination, with stunning beaches, historic sites, and natural wonders to explore with your partner.

About Shaun

Shaun is a passionate traveller from Malta who loves sharing his experiences with others. With a deep-seated wanderlust and a desire to explore new places.

This blog serves as a platform to inspire and motivate fellow travellers who are also searching for bliss in their lives through travel.

More About Malta

THE 10 BEST Couples' Activities & Things to Do in Malta

Best things to do in malta for couples.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Couples
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Mdina Old City

2. St. John's Co-Cathedral

3. Lascaris War Rooms

4. Upper Barrakka Gardens

5. Popeye Village Malta

6. Saluting Battery

7. Fort St Elmo - National War Museum

8. The Citadel

9. Valletta Ferry Services

10. Mellieha Air Raid Shelter

11. Hagar Qim Temples

12. Casa Rocca Piccola

13. Malta Classic Car Collection Museum

14. Blue Grotto (Il-Hnejja)

15. Mosta Rotunda

16. Marsaxlokk Harbour

17. Gozo Ferry

18. Malta National Aquarium

19. Valletta Waterfront

20. Fort Rinella

21. Azure Window

22. Mellieha Beach

23. The Malta Experience

24. Blue Lagoon

25. Spinola Bay

26. Mellieha Parish Church

27. Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Paul

28. Lower Barrakka Gardens

29. Ggantija Archaeological Park

30. St. Peter’s Pool

What travellers are saying

A Couple’s Escape to the Dreamy Seaside of Malta

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. More information can be found under the site's privacy policy.

This couple’s guide to Malta will help you plan a romantic, relaxing, and budget friendly trip to Malta. It’s a place that is reasonably priced, an easy flight from Paris, and surrounded by the ocean’s sparkling torquoise water. We also wanted to travel to a destination where we could manage to site see without renting a car. Malta checked all of these boxes.

In this blog post, I will share our 3 day Malta itinerary. Day 4 was check out. We were there to take in a bit of culture and history, while also trying to slow down, and enjoy the sun. When we travel, we are usually trying to maximize our time. By this I mean, trying to see as much as we can with the time allotted at that destination. This trip was more about doing less!

Where To Stay:

I did quite a lot of research in trying to figure out which area to stay in when visiting Malta. There are several different options. Many people stay in Valetta, Saint Julians, Sliema, or the island of Gozo.

We decided to stay right on the edge of Saint Julians and Sliema for several reasons. Sliema is an easy boat trip to Valetta, has more reasonably priced hotels, and it’s right by the water.

The HOLM Boutique and SPA is the perfect location for a couple wanting a relaxing and romantic stay. We booked a deluxe room with our own personal patio and outdoor hot tub for just 100 euros per night!

Don’t forget your travel insurance! We recommend World Nomads. Make sure to have coverage that includes medical expenses, trip cancellations, and coverage for your belongings from theft or damage. If needed, you may also want to include car rental insurance as well.

Our 3 Day Couple’s Guide To Malta Itinerary:

Day 1: arrive in sliema.

It’s about 20 euros for a taxi from the airport to the hotel.

On day one, we checked into our hotel and then went to check out all of the water views in Sliema. You can walk or bike along the path and there are plenty of bars and restaurants along the way. If you are visiting during the summer months, definitely take your swimsuit. There are stairs that will take you into these natural swimming holes.

Day 2: Valletta and Mdina

Visiting valetta.

We did a lot of sight-seeing on day two. Mdina was the original capital of Malta, but now it’s Valetta. We decided to see both locations in one day. You could definitely spend a whole day in Valetta! Mdina is more of a half-day visit. From the HOLM hotel, it is only a ten minute walk to the ferry. The ferry will take you over to Valetta. It comes every 15 minutes and costs 1.50.

P.S. Stop to grab a local pea pastinni on the way to the ferry. They are heavy and will keep you full until lunchtime.

The ferry is a quick 5-10 minute ride and then when you arrive to Valetta, you will see city tour buses, also known as tuk-tuks. Definitely pay the 5 euros for a ride if you want to save time and a lot of steep incline walking. It’s worth every penny!

Valetta is where a lot of the sites, souvenir shops, and restaurants are located. I can see the appeal of staying in Valetta, but if you prefer to be closer to the water, then you may like our recommended hotel location. While in Valetta, make sure to see the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Try to visit Barrakka Gardens at 12:00 to see the cannons in action. I believe there is also an evening time where the cannons go off as well. I recommend stopping in at LaTorre for a local Maltese spiced coffee or Nenu for a local Maltese glass of wine.

Other sites to see in Valetta:

Saint John’s Co-Cathedral

National War Museum

If it happens to be a rainy day, you may want to watch the Malta5D show. You can read more about it here malta5d .

Visiting Mdina

After visiting Valetta, we took a taxi to Mdina (cost was 28 euros). You can take busses around the city for cheaper, but we were willing to spend the extra cash to make things easier and faster. Mdina is known as the silent city of Malta.

I’ve never seen any of The Game of Thrones episodes, but Mdina is where a lot of it was filmed. It’s a beautiful fortified city. We watched a film at The Mdina Experience. It was 6 euros per person and a quick show about the history of the area. It’s an educational experience that will get you off of your feet for a little bit and a fun thing to do in Mdina. You can also have a little wine and cheese before or after the show.

Don’t miss Saint Paul’s Cathedral while in Mdina. Another site to see that is close by the area is the Dingli Cliffs. It’s a short ride and a great water view at sunset.

We used day 3 to enjoy the hotel premises. There is a rooftop pool and a large spa. You can book a couples massage and then enjoy the spa .

After relaxing at the hotel spa and pool, we explored Saint Julian’s to see what is was all about. It’s known as the party area of Malta. If you decide to check out Saint Julians area, don’t miss the Greek Restaurant by the waterfront on your way back! It is truly not to be missed. A true gem. I’ll link below. Marsaxlokk is fishing village full of these colorful boats. Even if you don’t visit the village, you will see these colorful boats along the Spinola Bay.

Another option for day 3 would be to take a boat tour to see the three cities. You can easily access the tours right by the waterway. We were planning to do this but it was extremely cold and windy on our third day so we cancelled that plan and just relaxed by the water.

Recommended Restaurants : 

The Barracuda Restaurant was our favorite restaurant in Malta. It’s is located directly across from the hotel. The building is a restored 18th century villa. It’s located right on the water with a view of Spinola Bay. It has amazing seafood, Italian pasta and wine.

Manakais is an authentic Greek Restaurant with a water view!

If You Have More Time In Malta :

This trip was short and sweet, so we did not visit the island of Gozo. We also visited during winter, so we weren’t able to swim at the famous Blue Grotto .

Popeye’s Village is another site to see in Malta. It’s where the film Popeye The Sailor Man was filmed. If you have children, I think it would be a must see!

I hope that you have enjoyed this couple’s guide to Malta. Do you have more time to explore Europe? If so, you may want to check out my Paris blog post . Thanks for stopping by!

Have you been to Malta? I would love to know in the comments below. Pin the image below to save it for later.

You May Also Like

A Couple’s Guide to the Scenic Wine Country of Bordeaux

Photos that Will Inspire You to Travel to Saint Malo

How to Explore Essen Germany Without A Car

Lovely photographs, brings back nice memories of my trip to Malta last year

Thank you. It really is a neat place to visit!

Comments are closed.

• Privacy Policy

Privacy Overview

Enjoy this blog? Please spread the word :)

THE 10 BEST Couples' Activities & Things to Do in Malta

Best things to do in malta for couples.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Couples
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Mdina Old City

2. St. John's Co-Cathedral

3. Lascaris War Rooms

4. Upper Barrakka Gardens

5. Popeye Village Malta

6. Saluting Battery

7. Fort St Elmo - National War Museum

8. The Citadel

9. Valletta Ferry Services

10. Mellieha Air Raid Shelter

11. Hagar Qim Temples

12. Casa Rocca Piccola

13. Malta Classic Car Collection Museum

14. Blue Grotto (Il-Hnejja)

15. Mosta Rotunda

16. Marsaxlokk Harbour

17. Gozo Ferry

18. Malta National Aquarium

19. Valletta Waterfront

20. Fort Rinella

21. Azure Window

22. Mellieha Beach

23. The Malta Experience

24. Blue Lagoon

25. Spinola Bay

26. Mellieha Parish Church

27. Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Paul

28. Lower Barrakka Gardens

29. Ggantija Archaeological Park

30. St. Peter’s Pool

What travellers are saying

• Packing List

Planning Your Perfect Honeymoon In Malta | 2024 Guide

This small island is love, romance, and perfection all wrapped up in one glorious spot. Let me show you how to plan your ideal honeymoon in Malta.

Banner Title

Necessary Spacing

Malta is a fantastic island to spend your honeymoon. Its rich history and a multitude of incredible activities make for the honeymoon of a lifetime at a reasonable cost.

I recommend 6 days in Valletta staying at The Coleridge Boutique Hotel and 4 days on Gozo staying at the Sant Anton Farmhouse.

• Day 1 – Walking food tour of Valletta and exploring the city.
• Day 2 – A boat up to the Blue Lagoon.
• Day 3 – Mdina sightseeing and wine tasting.
• Day 4 – Chill on the east coast.
• Day 5 – A day by the pool (Grand Hotel Excelsior day pass).
• Day 6 – Relax at the farmhouse.
• Day 7 – Diving.
• Day 8 – Ramla L-Hamra Beach.
• Day 9 – ATV Adventure Around Gozo.
• Day 10 – Fly home.

Malta cemented a place in our hearts during our month-long visit. It was here when we first started filming videos on YouTube, here when the website became our full-time job, and here where we stood near the cliffs of Gozo island, looking out into the dramatic frothing sea as a storm rolled in and I asked Jade to marry me.

Yeah, Malta will always have a place in our hearts.

What’s important though, is making sure that we help you get that same feeling. However, the island is so small it should be easy to plan the perfect honeymoon in Malta. Let’s get cracking!

I’ll start with my perfect 10-day honeymoon in Malta but after that, I have all of the best activities and accommodation options for you to plan your own incredible Malta honeymoon!

Read More: How To Spend A Week In Malta

The Perfect 10-Day Honeymoon In Malta

Do you want a ready-made 2-week honeymoon in Malta itinerary or simply inspiration to get the planning off the ground? This is my perfect Malta honeymoon experience.

Days 1-5 – Valletta

Where to stay – the coleridge boutique hotel.

Banner Text

The Coleridge

The Coleridge is just absolutely epic. It is literally everything I think of when I imagine the perfect boutique hotel.

It is in the heart of the city with everything being in easy reach from the doors of the hotel. I would go for the King Suite but there are options with a hot tub so you might choose otherwise.

Day 1 – Walking Food Tour & Exploring

The first we do in any city that we are visiting is check to see if there is a decent food tour of the city. They are usually a similar price to walking tours and you get the added benefit of eating the best food the whole city has to offer. This is our recommended Valletta food tour.

This tour is in the morning which is perfect as this gives you the rest of the day to walk around Valletta, exploring its gardens, forts, and bars along the way.

Day 2 – Up To The Blue Lagoon

Get yourself on a boat up to the Blue Lagoon and swim in the best water on the entire island. You have quite a few hours when you get to the Lagoon so make sure you make the most of it by drinking, partying, jumping off the boat, and generally having the best time ever.

The Blue Lagoon is a massive party during the high season so be ready for many many people, loud music, and pure crazy fun.

If this isn’t your cup of tea then just up the coast from where you are dropped off is a little beach called Santa Maria that is always quieter and is still an awesome place to chill.

Read More: How To Spend A Single Weekend In Malta!

Day 3 – Mdina Sightseeing & Wine Tasting

You simply must visit Mdina as it is such a gloriously beautiful city but it’s so small that you would have gone around the whole place in just a couple of hours. Luckily the wine lovers tour comes to Mdina for a couple of hours, giving you time to have a look around.

This is great because you then also get to see and do loads of other activities during the tour, plus get wine and a food platter. It ticks off so many boxes all in one go. Check out the price and availability here.

Read More: The Best Farmhouses In Gozo – WITH INDOOR POOLS!

Day 4 – Chill On The East Coast

The east coast of Malta is home to Sliema, St Julians, Paceville, and many more places to explore. I recommend getting a boat across the harbor to the 3 cities and exploring this area for a couple of hours before getting lunch on the harbourfront.

Then, make your way up to Sliema for some shopping in the afternoon. When you start to feel peckish, get down to the Guadalupe boat bar in Sliema Bay and have a bite to eat and drink. If you can, plan this around sunset as the views from the little boat are magical.

In the evening, head up to Paceville for a night out in the country’s best bars and nightlife scene. Don’t worry if you are not a big club goer, Paceville has a place for everyone to enjoy their evening.

Read More: The Perfect Short Break In Malta

Day 5 – A Day By The Pool

There are so many incredible hotels and venues that you can grab day passes to on the east coast of Malta. I recommend making your way up to Grand Hotel Excelsior which has draw-dropping facilities and enjoying the 5th day of your honeymoon In Malta in style.

This is the place to get any spa treatment you might want/need and the day to absolutely pamper yourselves with any luxury food, drink, and services that any good Malta honeymoon can’t do without. You can read Jade’s full guide to spending a day by the pool in Malta here.

Day 6 – 10 – Gozo

Where to stay – sant anton farmhouse.

This is the time for a 3-night stay in total seclusion and privacy. Sant Anton farmhouse boasts its own private pool and fully equipped house for any need you may have. Plus, it’s just so darn romantic. What A way to spend the final three days of your honeymoon in Malta.

Read More: The Best Gozo Tours To Make The Most OF Your Visit!

Day 6 – Relax At The Farmhouse

After making your way up to the farmhouse, you’re going to want to chill out and relax at this new venue. Why not get a couple of bottles of wine in, grab some BBQ food and have a romantic BBQ afternoon by your new pool?

Even writing that makes me want to have a BBQ right now. Ok, you’ve convinced me, I’m gonna have a BBQ tomorrow. Pity I don’t have a pool though.

Day 7 – Diving

If you are a certified diver, you cannot come to Gozo without diving at least once. If you are both divers then this is simply a no-brainer! Check out our recommended dives here or check out this great website about diving in Gozo.

Day 8 – Ramla L-Hamra Beach

This is the best beach in the whole country and nobody can convince me otherwise! It has the best sand and it is also absolutely huge, so you can always find a secluded spot even at high season. Not only that, it also has some of the best swimming out of any beach as well.

I genuinely suggest spending a whole day here but you could swap this out with spending a day at the farmhouse by the pool to make the most out of that incredible accommodation.

Day 9 – ATV Adventure Around Gozo

This is your last full day of your honeymoon in Malta so why the hell not go out with a bang?! This ATV tour allows you to zoom around some of Gozo’s most incredible scenery and taste some of its best food.

The tour is also even better as you won’t have to spend hours at the start of the tour picking up other passengers and making your way over to Gozo as you’re already there! Check out this activity here.

After the ATV adventure, I recommend dressing up nice and heading out for one last dinner at a fancy restaurant. We went to a place called Al Sale and it was absolutely amazing.

When you have a day as incredible as your engagement day and you vividly remember the food then you know it must have been good.

Day 10 – Back To The Airport

Just because this is the last day and you’re heading back to the airport doesn’t mean that you can’t have one last little bit of luxury before heading home and truly beginning your married lives together.

Make sure you book your place at the Lavalette departures lounge at the airport to cap off quite an amazing honeymoon in Malta.

Where To Stay For Your Honeymoon In Malta

This is, by far, the biggest decision you’re going to have to make. We made a video summarising all of the best places to stay in Malta so take a look at that below to get an idea of where you would like to stay and then we’ll break down why each place is good for a honeymoon in Malta or take a look at our full guide here.

Malta is tiny. If you hire a car, which is very affordable, then the entire island (including Gozo) is a very short drive away. If you hire a vehicle then it doesn’t really matter where you decide to stay! Click here to see prices now.

Read More: Is Malta Expensive? Our Complete Guide

Mellieha is a gorgeous little town towards the north of the main island. It boasts a very good location due to its proximity to the north and its short journey to Valetta and the south. It has the incredible Mellieha Bay beach and has loads of things to do within walking distance of the center.

If you decide to take your Malta honeymoon here then you’ll be welcomed by the incredible Mellieha Parish Church surrounded by a few good restaurants and bars. It certainly is one of the most romantic locations in Malta in my opinion.

St Julians is the most active location in all of Malta. This is where most tourists go and where the nightlife is at its most fervent. However, it is also extremely beautiful and is home to some incredible restaurants. I recommend St Julians for a couple who are looking to be in the heart of it all and not necessarily looking for that peaceful serenity that can be found elsewhere in Malta.

Gozo is the most romantic place in Malta. Am I biased? Yes. But in all fairness, this is where you will find some of the best Malta Instagram spots , picturesque villages, the most incredible hidden restaurants, and some of the best romantic accommodations in all of Malta.

I recommend that you split your time between the mainland and Gozo as this gives you the best of both worlds!

Read More: How To Choose The Best Boutique Hotel On Gozo

The incredible beauty of the capital, Valetta, cannot be understated. This city is one of the most beautiful I have ever visited and its high stone walls and ancient architecture ooze romance and love. How can anyone visit Valetta, walk through the gardens, visit the small bakeries, get lost in its labyrinth of winding streets, and not fall in love all over again?

Of course, Valetta is very busy and the accommodation here is usually very tightly packed unless you spend the big bucks, but it is an incredible city and it should definitely be towards the top of your list for your honeymoon in malta.

The South Coast

The south coast has a collection of smaller towns that tend to be historic fishing villages. Places like, Marsaskala and Marsaxlokk. These towns are very beautiful but, I believe that there are better places with better access to spend your honeymoon in Malta.

The prices down here tend to be lower so don’t rule out the area as it could be a great way to save money if you hire a car to get around the rest of the Island.

The 3 Cities

The 3 cities of Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua are directly opposite the harbor of Valetta. It’s literally a 5-minute ferry ride across the water. These cities are so much quieter than Valetta and also have some great restaurants and accommodation options.

If you want to get all of the benefits of the capital but want the peace and quiet of a small rural town then the 3 cities are a fantastic option to get the best of both worlds.

Mdina & Rabat

Mdina is a small fortified town of just 300 people in the center of Malta and served as the capital of the island for many centuries. Rabat is the town that surrounds Mdina. Mdina is an incredible place to visit and has some of the best restaurants and views in the entire country.

If you start looking at accommodation options in Mdina then you will see that the price is quite high. this is because of the limited options available. However, if you can push the budget to Mdina then you’ll have one of the most romantic trips you could possibly have.

Types Of Accommodation

It can be difficult to decide what type of accommodation to choose for your Malta honeymoon. Most honeymooners will opt for an all-inclusive resort with a huge sprawling pool, spa, concierge services, and a room to die for. You may not even have to leave the resort!

However, there are a few different options that you should consider before jumping straight in with the most obvious, albeit brilliant, option.

Farmhouses & Townhouses

Farmhouses/Townhouses are often completely overlooked when planning any trip, let alone a honeymoon in Malta. However, these incredibly beautiful converted properties often pack the most charm out of any of the following options. Check out my favorite 4 below.

Rose Of Rhodes

Casa Deguara

Booking a resort for your honeymoon in Malta is probably one of your top choices. I understand the appeal. The quest for a completely stress-free honeymoon where you don’t have to think about a single thing other than each other. It’s pretty darn appealing. Luckily, Malta has a pretty amazing collection of high-end resorts to make your Malta honeymoon the most memorable. My fave 4 are below!

Radisson Blu

Hilton Malta

The Phoenicia

Boutique Hotels

If you are on a budget but still want that taste of luxury, personal service, romance, and style, then choosing a boutique hotel for your honeymoon in Malta may be the best option. Boutique hotels have fewer rooms so you get that calmer more personal touch for a fraction of a 5-star resort. As always, my top 4 are below.

The Village

If the idea of eating in a restaurant every day, getting pampered in the spa, lying in the sun, and generally leaving the real world for your honeymoon in Malta is not what you consider paradise, then an apartment may be exactly what you need. You’ll be able to cook for yourselves and have all the comforts and privacy of home. Check out the best 4 below.

Doris Suites

U Collection

This is the pinnacle of accommodation in Malta in my opinion. The extreme luxury and privacy offered by these properties are unmatched anywhere else and this is the option if you have the budget and the desire to disappear into your new home and soak up each other’s love in complete opulence. Sounds appealing. Check out the best 4 below.

Carob Hills

Grand House

Ta Wenzinetta

Things To Do On Your Honeymoon In Malta

The blue lagoon.

You simply have to use one of your days to grab a boat over to the Blue Lagoon on Comino island. This absolutely gorgeous lagoon is probably the best place to swim and relax anywhere in all of Malta so it is a no-brainer to organise during your honeymoon in Malta.

There are a couple of ways to do this. You could hire a private boat to take you over which will give you the most privacy, you could book yourselves on a large group tour (kind of a party boat) which is the most convenient, or you could simply get the passenger ferry across. If it was my Malta honeymoon then I would go for the party boat but it’s totally up to you guys!

A Drink With The Sunset

We were walking down Sliema bay one evening and came across this very cool boat called the Guadalupe. It is docked in Sliema bay and has a few tables and hammocks on board for people to jump on and grab a drink and bite to eat.

The cocktails were great, the price was more than reasonable and the sunset into the bay was sublime. It’s these sorts of small, spontaneous experiences that make Malta so memorable.

If you have dived before then you already know that Gozo is one of the most famous places on Earth to go diving. If you have never dived then there are some fantastic beginner courses to try out as well. Diving is one of those seriously cool activities that everyone dreams of doing but never gets around to it. It’s your honeymoon, now is the time.

If you are a beginner then check out this beginner dive and if you have already been diving then check out the certified dives right here.

I’m not going to recommend any restaurants. They are so many, I couldn’t possibly recommend all of the best throughout the entire island depending on where you are staying. Also, there is a certain beauty to just going and finding somewhere that ticks all of your boxes.

On the day I proposed we found a restaurant in Gozo by just checking out the local village and it absolutely blew us away. If you happen to be in Gozo, check out a restaurant called Al Sale, it was incredible.

Day By The Beach

There are some absolutely incredible beaches in Malta. What better way to spend your time on your honeymoon in Malta than soaking up some rays and swimming in the incredibly blue water? I have written a full guide to all of the beaches in Gozo and the best beach on the mainland has to be Mellieha bay.

Valletta Sightseeing

You have to spend at least one day in Valletta. It is the romance capital of the country, as well as the actual capital. A really good way to get a good introduction to any city that you visit is to jump on a walking street food tour.

We basically do this anywhere we go as it shows you all of the best spots in the city and what food you should be looking out for. Check out this food tour of Valletta here to see what I mean.

You could also jump onto a walking tour of the city if the food is not really your priority.

I, personally, think that the food tour is the better option as you can then explore the city without a guide together afterward. Getting lost in the winding roads and discovering the best places the city has to offer together, all whilst eating the best food with your newly acquired knowledge.

Wine Tasting

Wine? Cheese? Sun? Ancient City? I’m not sure how much I’m going to need to convince you to check out this activity. If you are into wine and cheese like we are then you’re probably going to do it! Check it out here.

Visit Victoria

Victoria is the main city on Gozo island and is incredible to behold. It seems like everywhere on this small island is perfect. This is another place to visit, explore, and wander around. Exploring its narrow roads, traditional shops, and incredible bars nestled in the most picturesque surroundings.

Remember, a day trip over to Gozo is very easy if you are not planning on spending any time over there. The ferry runs every day and the timetable can be found here.

Gozo ATV Adventure

For the more adventurous among you, there are loads of ATV tours around GOZO island exploring its incredible beaches and villages. Check out our top recommendation here.

This tour actually includes the transport over to Gozo from the mainland and comes with a 3-course lunch in the middle. It doesn’t get better than this. It’s a great way to experience what Gozo has to offer in one day.

Charter A Yacht

This has to be the most romantic thing you can do on your honeymoon in Malta. A private yacht charter takes you wherever you want to go. This is the pinnacle of activity luxury and it doesn’t get any more exclusive and cool than this.

If you are considering going all out for one incredible experience on your Malta honeymoon then this could well be the option you should go for! Check out the private yacht charter here.

What To Pack For Your Honeymoon In Malta

Here is a list of some of the most important things to take on your honeymoon in Malta. Everything is updated regularly so don’t worry about out-of-date products!

A decent pair of polarised sunglasses is difficult to get at a decent price, especially if you want them to look good. These from WOWSUN have lots of different styles (male/female) and colours to choose from and they are very affordable. Click through to see all of your options.

Looking for a stylish, flattering, complimenting swimsuit that shows off all of your best features whilst also being great for swimming and having fun? Then check out all of the incredible styles and colours these tummy control swimsuits come in.

Need to change on a crowded beach? No more cowering behind a normal towel whilst someone holds it up! Need a compact towel that fits in your day bag? It's got that covered too. These have genuinely been a lifesaver over the years and there are literally no downsides!

The perfect travel companion! The Panasonic Lumix LX10 fits easily into your pocket, captures beautiful 20.1MP images, records gorgeous 4K footage, and does this all through the brilliant 24-72mm Leica lens. Level up your travel photography today!

If you travel and you read then you almost certainly own or have thought about buying yourself a Kindle. You'll never have to choose which books will fit in your luggage again. This incredible new Kindle is perfect in direct sunlight, has an adjustable backlight, and can survive being submerged underwater!

Walking boots are good for some situations but sometimes you don't need heavy, warm, and waterproof shoes to get the job done. These walking shoes by Akk will keep your feet a nice temperature and comfortable for those long days sightseeing and partying in the sun!

Jade has used this backpack throughout the world on our travels and we have both been very impressed with the design. It comfortably holds a 3L water reservoir in the specifically designed pouch and contours very nicely over your back to distribute the weight well. I have always had a full camera bag so Jade usually has to take enough for two people which it can do. It's a very reasonable price for a very good day pack.

We all know what sunscreen is and we all know how important it is but why go with Sun Bum? They are cruelty-free and are compliant with the Hawaii 104 Reef Act meaning that you will be helping decrease the amount of damage sunscreens have to the environment that you are swimming in. If that hasn't convinced you then click through to find out even more.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost for a honeymoon in malta.

This completely depends on how long your honeymoon in Malta is and what accommodation/activities you choose to do. All in all, Malta is a very affordable destination, so don’t expect to pay a premium price like other more famous honeymoon destinations

Is Malta A Good Place For A Honeymoon?

Absolutely yes. It is very affordable, has fantastic weather for a huge portion of the year, and has some absolutely incredible cities and activities.

Is Malta A Romantic Country?

The cities in Malta look like they were designed with romance in mind. Of course, this is not true, many of them were built with siege defense in mind. However, this thick stone blockwork, towering walls, and narrow lanes have produced what I think is one of the most romantic countries I have ever visited.

How Long Should A Honeymoon In Malta Be?

I recommend 10 days for a honeymoon in Malta.

Where Should You Stay For Your Malta Honeymoon?

I recommend splitting your time between Valletta and Gozo.

What Is The Best Time To Go To Malta For A Honeymoon?

The best time to go to Malta is in the spring or September/October. The weather is still great and the crowds of tourists have eased away. Check out our guide to Malta in October here.

That is our entire guide on how to plan your honeymoon in Malta. Let us know if this has been helpful or if you need any more information in the comments section below!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

THE 10 BEST Malta Couples' Activities

Best things to do in malta for couples.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Couples
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

31. Ghajn Tuffieha Bay

32. Three Cities

Recommended Experiences for Couples (197)

33. Ta' Pinu National Shrine

34. Xlendi Beach, Cliff and Caves

35. St Paul's Catacombs

36. St Agatha's Tower - The Red Tower

37. Ramla Bay

38. The Grand Master's Palace

39. Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum

40. Dwejra Bay

41. Portomaso Marina

42. Dragonara Casino

43. San Anton Gardens

44. Gozo Ferry Port

45. Paradise Bay

46. Tal-Massar Winery

47. Palazzo Parisio & Gardens

48. Golden Bay

49. Golden Sands Beach

50. Paceville

51. Blue Hole

52. St. George's Basilica

53. Dingli Cliffs

54. Parrocca San Pawl Nawfragu

55. St. George's Bay

56. Mediterraneo Marine Park

57. Malta5D

58. Mdina Main Gate - Baroque gateway

59. Strait Street

60. Triton Fountain

What travelers are saying

THE 10 BEST Couples' Activities & Things to Do in Malta

Best things to do in malta for couples.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Couples
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Mdina Old City

2. St. John's Co-Cathedral

3. Lascaris War Rooms

4. Upper Barrakka Gardens

5. Popeye Village Malta

6. Saluting Battery

7. Fort St Elmo - National War Museum

8. The Citadel

9. Valletta Ferry Services

10. Mellieha Air Raid Shelter

11. Hagar Qim Temples

12. Casa Rocca Piccola

13. Malta Classic Car Collection Museum

14. Blue Grotto (Il-Hnejja)

15. Mosta Rotunda

16. Marsaxlokk Harbour

17. Gozo Ferry

18. Malta National Aquarium

19. Valletta Waterfront

20. Fort Rinella

21. Azure Window

22. Mellieha Beach

23. The Malta Experience

24. Blue Lagoon

25. Spinola Bay

26. Mellieha Parish Church

27. Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Paul

28. Lower Barrakka Gardens

29. Ggantija Archaeological Park

30. St. Peter’s Pool

What travellers are saying

The top places you must visit in Malta: catacombs, clubs and clifftop walks

May 11, 2022 • 7 min read

Cittadella is a Unesco World Heritage site in the heart of the island of Gozo © rossmagri / Getty Images

Malta may only measure a compact 27km by 14km (17mi by 9mi), but this tiny island nation is crammed with compelling sights.

Explore 5000-year-old megalithic temples, swim in spine-tinglingly beautiful lagoons, and stroll around the glorious 16th-century cityscape of Valletta. To make the most of a visit to Malta, here are our 10 essential highlights of a fascinating destination at the heart of the Mediterranean.

Valletta is full of architectural gems and historical wonders

Europe’s first planned city, Valletta is Unesco World Heritage listed thanks to its extremely high concentration of historic monuments. Built in the 17th century as a grid of streets on a narrow peninsula, there was never any space to sprawl messily outwards, and the architecture has remained remarkably untouched. St John’s Co-Cathedral is the fantastically gilded jewel in the crown, alongside the sumptuous Grand Master’s Palace and the treasure-packed National Museum of Archaeology . Designed by internationally renowned architect Renzo Piano, 21st-century additions to the city’s architecture (the first for hundreds of years) include a leviathan city gate , a modern parliament building , and an open-air theatre that rises phoenix-like from the ruins of the WWII-bombed Opera House . Housed in the historic 16th-century Auberge d’Italie, MUŻA opened in late 2018 as a spectacular and innovative showcase for Malta’s Museum of Fine Arts.

Cross the harbor in a water taxi to visit The Three Cities, Tarxien Temples and Hypogeum

Facing Valletta across the royal-blue Grand Harbour are the small fortified towns known as the Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua. Catching a traditional wooden dgħajsa water taxi is the best way to approach them. The most interesting of the three is Vittoriosa , with its maze of streets, the Inquisitor’s Palace , Malta at War Museum , and excellent traditional Maltese restaurants.

Fort St Angelo’s centuries of history include 1565’s Great Siege and almost seven decades as the naval headquarters of Britain’s Mediterranean fleet from 1912 to 1979. Near the Three Cities is Malta’s most amazing site, the ancient Hal Saflieni Hypogeum in nearby Paola (book several months ahead). These extraordinarily well-preserved subterranean caverns were carved out of the rock over 5000 years ago. Complete your prehistoric odyssey in the similarly ancient Tarxien Temples , a few blocks away.

Dine on the city walls in Mdina and descend into catacombs in Rabat

Great golden-stone walls encircle the narrow lanes and piazzas of hilltop Mdina , an Arabic-feeling citadel where majestic mansions and convents are hidden behind unassuming doors. Restaurants perched on Mdina’s city walls make for a spectacular lunch stop, and the beautiful St Paul’s Cathedral is one of Malta’s finest churches. Nearby Rabat, meaning “suburb”, is a small town just outside Mdina’s fortifications. With a much more local feel, it has an impressive excavated Roman villa , a spooky array of catacombs , and an emerging fine-dining scene courtesy of innovative restaurants including Root 81 and Townhouse No 3 .

Learn more about prehistoric Malta at the Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra Temples, then on to the Blue Grotto

Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra have the most astounding location of all of Malta’s prehistoric temples, set atop sea cliffs, gazing out towards the islet known as Filfla (from filfel, the Arabic for peppercorn). There’s an excellent small museum to put them into context. A short bus or car ride away is Wied iż-Żurrieq , the launching point for the Blue Grotto , with regular boat trips across the dark, sparkling Mediterranean to a series of sea caves, which glow with a thousand luminescent shades of blue. Visit the grotto in the morning, and then ease into a leisurely seafood lunch at nearby Il Corsaro .

Glitz and glamor await you in Sliema and St Julian's

For a bit of Maltese glitz and buzz, head across the harbor by passenger ferry to the elegant grid of streets that make up Sliema , its uber-mall, the Point, and the bars, pubs, clubs and restaurants of St Julian’s. There are postage-stamp-sized beaches around the coast so you can dip your toes in the water, but this area is really about shopping, eating, partying, and sipping on cocktails. Paceville , a small area in St Julian’s, gets thronged with bar hoppers on summer nights. 

Enjoy incredible seafood in Marsaxlokk

At Marsaxlokk, brightly painted fishing boats bob in the harbor, their reflections spilling color across the water, while the shore is a mass of stalls and hubbub. Every Sunday, the town hosts Malta’s biggest fish market , with everything on sale from baby sharks to oysters. Intensely colorful and vibrant, it’s the ideal inspiration for a feast at one of the harborfront restaurants. It’s also worth visiting the town on other days of the week when it is much more tranquil and you can see local fishermen fixing their nets in the harbor. Around 5km (3mi) to the southwest, the seafood restaurants of nearby Marsaskala are also popular on weekends

Golden Bay is one of Malta's most popular beaches

If you’re in search of soft sand, Golden Bay is one of Malta’s peachiest options, a north-coast golden arc overlooked by one huge hotel, with multiple restaurants in case of peckishness. You can windsurf, go boating or waterski from the beach, but it’s also a great place to pick up a boat trip with Charlie’s Discover Speed Boat Trips . Options include exploring sea caves and hidden beaches, and even cruising over to Comino island.

Dingli Cliffs are the perfect spot for a clifftop walk

At Dingli Cliffs , Malta’s landmass suddenly drops 220m (722ft) into the water. This is a fabulous place for a windswept walk – a narrow road runs along the top of the cliffs. Lunch on traditional Maltese dishes such as rabbit at Diar il-Bniet , a farm-to-table restaurant in nearby Dingli village, or join one of their cookery classes to learn about Malta’s cuisine influenced by centuries of cultural interaction. After lunch, explore the mystery that is “Clapham Junction”, deep prehistoric scores that look like cart ruts in the wide sloping limestone pavement, 1.5km (a mile) inland from the cliffs.

Take a day trip to gorgeous Gozo

Malta’s neighboring island of Gozo encompasses storybook scenery, dizzying sea cliffs, and notable restaurants with stellar Mediterranean views. The island is accessible via regular car ferries from Ċirkewwa on Malta’s northern coast, or on the new fast ferries – foot passengers and bikes only – traveling from Valletta to Gozo’s Mġarr Harbour. Rent a car, e-bike or scooter at the harbor and explore Il-Kastell , the towering citadel crowning Gozo’s walled capital, Victoria , and the extraordinary coastal rock formations of Dwejra. The lovely small town of Xagħra is ideal for lunch in the main square and is also home to the gigantic-by-name-and-nature Ġgantija prehistoric temples. Gozo is also perfect for long leisurely rambles, bike rides through the back roads, and swimming from hidden coves.

Discover unspoiled beauty with a visit to Comino and the Blue Lagoon

You know those postcards that show too-blue-to-be-true water? The Blue Lagoon actually looks like that. A wide-open lagoon with a base of white sand and rock, it’s so fiercely aquamarine that the color seems to have been cranked up a few notches. It’s a fantastic place for swimming and snorkeling, and it lies alongside the picturesque, undeveloped island of Comino , which is good for a leisurely amble and pretending you’re Robinson Crusoe. There are plenty of tours here from both Malta and Gozo, and you can also go independently by taking a water taxi from either Ċirkewwa (Malta) or Mġarr (Gozo) port. During the height of summer, the Blue Lagoon does get (very!) busy. Consider visiting later in the day when day trippers are leaving. At the time of writing, the island’s only hotel was closed for redevelopment.

Getting around Malta

Car hire rates in Malta are among Europe’s lowest, and a good option to explore beyond the busy urban conurbation framing Valletta, Sliema and St Julian’s. Driving is on the left-hand side of the road, the same as in the UK and most Commonwealth countries. Malta Public Transport operates the local buses, with services all over Malta and Gozo (single-journey ticket €2/$2.10). An Explore Card (adult/child €21/15 | $22.18/15.80) offers unlimited bus travel for a seven-day period. Car ferries and passenger ferries run between Malta and Gozo, and Valletta Ferry Services link Valletta to the Three Cities and Sliema.

This article was first published September 2014 and updated May 2022

Explore related stories

Nov 22, 2023 • 5 min read

Jump in the blissfully warm waters that surround Malta from its best beaches, rocky inlets and sandy coves.

Oct 25, 2023 • 7 min read

Sep 29, 2023 • 9 min read

Jul 20, 2023 • 6 min read

Sep 28, 2022 • 6 min read

Sep 13, 2022 • 13 min read

Jun 10, 2022 • 6 min read

Jun 3, 2022 • 6 min read

May 24, 2022 • 8 min read

May 22, 2022 • 7 min read

Home » Travel Guides » 15 Best Places to Visit in Malta

15 Best Places to Visit in Malta

This small archipelago has so much variety you won’t believe how they manage to squeeze it all in. So many cultures have been mixing and influencing each other for generations that you’ll be hard pressed to pigeon-hole anything here. For example, Maltese food is a combination of Middle Eastern and Sicilian.  Another thing that mixes well here is modern life with the prehistoric.

All the modern amenities you could ask for, plus everywhere you look there are tiny pockets where you’ll think you’ve gone back in time.

Though the most famous asset is the gorgeous deep blue sea.  Come for the red-gold beaches, limestone cliffs, sheltered bays, and every imaginable sailing vessel and forget about everything else. Here’s the best places to visit in Malta !

1. Valletta

Valletta is the capital of Malta thanks to the famous defeat of the Ottoman Turks during the Great Siege of 1565.  Built on a peninsula in the eastern part of the country, with a population around 6000, the entire town is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It sits on top of Mount Sceberras and has wonderful examples of baroque architecture dating from the 16th century.

The stand out of these is St. John’s Cathedral and other auberges’ and bastions all built by the Knights of St. John. Valletta is the largest harbour town in Malta and from The Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens you’ll get incredible views of the Grand Harbour.

If you’ve got the opportunity, the Maltese Carnival, which lasts three days, is phenomenal.

Just 5k from Valletta, Sliema is the Maltese hub for delicious food and fantastic shopping. It’s the main resort destination now, though it was once the playground of the country’s aristocracy. You’ll find a lot of expats here, as well as a large number of Maltese.

There are a lot of options for boat trips around the Grand Harbour and Sliema serves as the starting point for hop on/off sightseeing buses that cover the entire island. In town, be sure to check out the Independence Garden and the De Redin tower (17th century).

As you might expect from a resort town, the nightlife has a lot of energy and you’ll likely find yourself with too much that you want to do.

3. St. Julians

For those that want a little punch in the nightlife scene, St. Julians is the place.  Known for its ability to entertain, this resort town is thriving with late night fun. St. Julians includes Portomaso, Spinola Bay, St. George’s Bay, and Paceville – which is where most of the action is.

For beach bums, the large flat rocks that line the coast make a perfect sunbathing bed and the seafront promenade offers a great place for a long walk.

Malta’s tallest building, Portomaso Tower, is here, as is the Love Monument and Spinola Palace (17th century). Come in August for the traditional summer festa, or come any time for unbelievable dancing, dining, and fine wine.

On a peninsula between Salina Bay and St. Paul’s Bay sits Qawra (Our-ra). Thanks to the peninsula, the town has three seafronts and with so much access, it’s quickly becoming a hub for tourists seeking water sports.

It’s also close to St. Julians, so if you want to experience great nightlife, but escape to a more quiet and relaxed home base, Qawra is a great option. The promenade will take you all the way to St. Paul’s and provide stunning views all along the 3k walk.

Don’t miss the parish church, dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi, and the Malta Classic Car Museum.

Just off the coast of Malta is the small island of Gozo.  Most tourists come for the day and enjoy sites like the Temples of Ggantija, Inland Sea, The Citadel, and the Azure Window.

Gozo is a mainly farming and fishing community, and most people enjoy the villages of Xlendi and Marsalforn. There’s been very little development here so an afternoon roaming the island will give you a nice feeling for a more traditional Malta.

Most arrive by ferry, but for some excitement, try the seaplane.

Head inland, to the “Silent City” of Mdina to experience medieval Malta.  Built on a large hill in the centre of the country, the town has few inhabitants and no cars can enter.

Combine this with amazing views of the entire island and you’ll quickly see the magic of Mdina. It’s a good place to relax as you stroll through the narrow alleys. Though it is small, there is plenty to do.

Take in the Carmelite Church and Priory, the Natural History Museum, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Magisterial Palace, and the Palazzo Falzon.

7. Birgu (Vittoriosa)

On the south side of the Grand Harbour is Birgu, one of the older cities in Malta.  Because of its location, it’s been of military significance for centuries.  The town even played an important role in the Siege of Malta. At one point, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Phoenicians, Normans, Arabs, and Aragonese all control the city and influenced its history and culture.

The main entrance to the city is the love Couvre Porte and the entire place is surrounded by fortified walls. Inside you’ll find monuments and ancient history at every turn.

Before leaving, explore the Inquisitor’s Palace (now a museum), The Parish Church, Notre Dame Gate, and the Malta Maritime Museum.

Dwejra is on the west coast and centuries of work by the sea have made it one of the most astounding places in Malta.  There are two underground caverns which have collapsed to form two circular depressions – current day Inland Sea and Dwerja Bay.

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you’ll recognize this place immediately from the shows first season. The Inland Sea is a lagoon with steep cliffs on all sides and a 100m tunnel leading to it.  Fishermen find their best catches from here and on the side they shuttle tourists back and forth through the tunnel.

Dwerja and the surrounding areas are Malta’s most popular diving and snorkelling spots.

Home of the famous Blue Lagoon, Comino is a small island much loved by surfers, divers, and those wanting a day trip get away from their cares.

The island is car free and virtually uninhabited. It’s got white sand beaches and an intensely blue sea making everything about Comino inviting and luxurious feeling.  You can swim over to the islet of Cominotto and when you’re finished rent an umbrella and a deck chair for a nice long nap in the sun.

It does get busy in the summer, so consider a winter visit to maximize your pleasure.

• 10.  Mellieha

This is Malta’s largest beach and takes its name from the Arabic word for salt. Another popular tourist spot, Mellieha is picturesque and a favourite among the Maltese. Wonderful seaside hotels and fantastic restaurants add to the hospitality that permeates the place.

In September you can take part in the Village Feast, known as “Il-Viorja,” which includes fireworks, concerts, folk singing, more great food, and many religious processions honouring Our Lady of Victories.

While visiting, be sure to explore Ghadira Natural Reserve, Ghadira Bay, Armier Bay, St. Agatha’s Tower, and Popeye’s Village where the 1980 film Popeye was filmed.

11. Marsaxlokk

In southern Malta you’ll find Marsaxlokk, a fishing village known for the Sunday fish market and the many colourful Luzzus – decorated “eyed” painted boats. The history here traces back to the 9th century and was used by Phoenicians and later the Turkish fleet during The Great Siege.

On the Tas-Silg hill, archaeologists have even found Bronze Age tools. Though industry is a major part of life in Marsaxlokk (the nation’s main power station is here).  The mouth-watering seafood and green water make it worth a visit.

There is a lovely beach leading to the gorgeous St. Peter’s Pool and cliff diving here is an amazing experience.

12. Victoria (Rabat)

The capital of Goza is Victoria (or Rabat) which includes both the old city and the Citadel which sits on top of the hill.  Because of its location, The Citadel serves as the heart of the island and is sometimes called the “Crown of Gozo.”

Independence Square (18th century) was once the government centre and is now home to a lively open-air market with cafes serving pastizzi and tons of fun souvenirs. The Grand Basilica is located in perhaps the oldest part of town and you’ll love walking around this area. Be sure to check out the local delicacies as you go.

And don’t leave before checking out The Folklore Museum, the Old Prison, Villa Rundle, and Gozo Cathedral.

13. Hagar Qim

The best preserved and staggering of all the prehistoric sites in Malta are the standing stones known as Hagar Qim and Mnajdra. Sitting right at the top of the sea cliff, the atmosphere here is awe-inspiring.  Hagar Qim is the first temple and has been restored so that you have a better sense of what it originally looked liked.

Next to it is the 20 tonne megalith. This is the location of where the famous Venus de Malta, or “fat lady,” figurine was found.  She’s now on display at the National Museum in Valletta. Mnajdra is a series of three elaborate temples which date back to 3000 BC.

There’s a great visitors centre here which will reveal all the secrets and mysteries of these ancient temples and afterwards, take a hike along the cliffs to Ghar Lapsi.

14. The Hypogeum

Discovered in 1902, The Hypogeum is a mysterious underground necropolis. The passages and chambers have been cut out of the rock and cover over 500 square metres.

Since it was built, sometime between 3000 and 3600 BC, some 7000 people were buried here. This incredible structure was carved by hand.  The site was shut for a decade as the government worked to restore and protect it, using UNESCO funds, from carbon dioxide damage from tourists.

Now it is structurally safe with a controlled micro-climate.  Because the number of tourists is limited to ten per tour, pre-booking is essential.

15. National Museum of Archaeology

Located in the Auberge de Provence, in Valletta, the museum has an unbelievable range of artefacts all the way back to the Neolithic period and Phoenician period.  There is so much ancient history in Malta and here, you’ll get a great introduction and context to most of sites you’ll visit as you travel the country.

You can see the Venus of Malta, the Sleeping Lady from Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, bronze daggers from the Tarxien Temples, and the Horus and Anubis pendant from the Phoenician period.

And not only will you learn about the artistry and daily lives of the first island dwellers, but the museum itself is architecturally one of the most elaborate Baroque buildings in the capital.

15 Best Places to Visit in Malta:

• St. Julians
• Birgu (Vittoriosa)
• Victoria (Rabat)
• The Hypogeum
• National Museum of Archaeology

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

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

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

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

🌍Where is Malta

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

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

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

☀️Best Time to Visit Malta

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

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

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

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

📆How Many Days to Spend in Malta

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

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

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

🇲🇹Best Things to Do in Malta🇲🇹

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Enjoy the Tropical Paradise, Blue Lagoon at Comino

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Uncover Mdina's Unique Past

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Admire the Natural Landmark of Malta, Blue Grotto

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

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

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

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

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

Price: Adult €8, child €4.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

From Valletta 25 min/ 15 km

From Mdina 20 min/ 10.7 km

5. Enjoy Romantic Strolls in the Three Cities

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

🌳Other things to do :

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

💰Entrance Fees : Adults €10, Children €5.50

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

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

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

7. Lose Yourself in Rabat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Discover the Salt Pans of Xwejni

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

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

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

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

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

9. Admire the Picturesque Views from Dingli Cliffs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Soak up the Sun on the Beaches of Malta

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Visit the Basilica of Ta’ Pinu in Gozo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Indulge in a Foodie Break in Malta

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Fall in Love with Popeye Village

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Explore the Upper and Lower Barrakka Garden

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. Go Underwater Diving in Malta

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

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

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

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

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

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

16. Take a Wander Around Victoria in Gozo

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

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

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

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

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

17. Be Captivated by Charming Marsaxlokk

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

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

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

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

18. Embark on a Malta Winery Tour

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

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

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

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

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

19. Explore Sliema

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

20. Dive into a Maltese Festival

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

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

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

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

📍Map of the attractions in Malta

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

Malta Travel Essentials

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

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

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

How to get to Malta

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

✈️Flights to Malta

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

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

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

✈️Flights from the UK

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

⛴️ Ferries to Malta

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

🚢Cruises to Malta

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

How to get around Malta

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Love, Moumita & Sankha

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

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

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

21 AWESOME Things To Do In Malta (2024 Guide)

Looking for the best things to do in Malta?!

With an average of 300 days of sunshine annually, Malta is a popular tourist destination in the Mediterranean, ideal for those who love the sun and the sea.

If you love European culture, Malta is a perfect place to explore, filled with stunning locations and rich history.

I have put together this huge guide of 21 Awesome Things To Do On Malta to help you plan your trip and ensure you have the best time when you arrive.

Table of Contents

QUICK ANSWERS: THINGS TO DO IN MALTA

Before I dive into all the details about the best tourist spots in Malta, here are some quick answers to the most frequently asked questions from first-time visitors.

WHERE IS MALTA?

Malta is an archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea, consisting of three main islands – Malta, Gozo, and Comino. Malta is about 93 kilometers (57 miles) south of Sicily.

Click here for an interactive map of Malta.

HOW TO GET TO MALTA?

You can fly directly to Malta International Airport (MLA) from major European cities such as London, Paris, and Berlin.

There are also direct flights from the Middle East, such as Dubai or Istanbul, and even from Tunisia, Africa.

If you’re coming from further away, you can take a connecting flight to Malta via Rome, Frankfurt, London, or Istanbul, among other hubs.

HOW TO GET AROUND?

As a first-time visitor, you will love getting around Malta as it’s easy, convenient, and quite cheap.

You can get around Malta by bus, renting a car or a scooter, taking a taxi, or by ferry and exploring the other islands.

Taking the public bus in Malta and Gozo is the cheapest yet very convenient way to get around since they stop as the most popular Malta tourist attractions.

Apart from that, they serve almost all the areas on both islands.

Taking a taxi is more expensive than the bus, but it’s the most comfortable way to get around, especially if you want to visit more remote areas on the island.

You will find white taxis everywhere but keep in mind that calling one from the international airport or the Seaport Terminal is pricier.

For instance, you will pay €37 when going to Armier or Marfa.

RENT A CAR IN MALTA OR A SCOOTER

Renting a car is the best option overall to explore remote parts of Malta and to be independent.

All the road signs are indicated in English, which makes it easy to get around, and you’ll drive on the left.

Expect to pay anywhere between €20 and €100 per day depending on the model, availability, and time of the year.

Moreover, international licenses are accepted, so the whole process of renting a car is hassle-free.

Renting a scooter or a bike is possible and inexpensive but keep in mind that bicycle lanes aren’t that common on major roads.

Car Rental – Search, Compare & Save!

Discover Cars are one of the world’s largest online car rental platforms with vehicles in 10,000+ locations.

Find the right car, in the right place, for the best price guaranteed!

TAKE THE FERRY

Taking the ferry is the only way to visit other islands around like Gozo, which only takes 20 minutes and costs only 4.65 Euros.

Alternatively, you can use the traditional Maltese ‘Dghajsa’ boats in Grand Harbour.

BEST TIME TO VISIT MALTA?

The best time to visit Malta is from April to October. The weather is warm and sunny, with an average temperature of 26 degrees Celsius (79 degrees Fahrenheit).

However, be aware that June, July, and August are pretty busy periods so expect to pay more for hotels and car rentals.

Visiting during the shoulder seasons is a great alternative and you’ll be sure to find a place to stay in Malta to suit your needs.

21 BEST THINGS TO DO IN MALTA

Malta is a great place to work and travel if you’re looking for a combination of European culture and Mediterranean weather.

And with three main islands and places to visit in Malta, I’m sure you’ll never get bored of exploring all of the best Malta attractions!

So, without further ado, these are the 21 best things to do in Malta that you should include in your itinerary.

TAKE A DIP AT ST. PETER’S POOL

Let’s kick off this list with St Peter’s Pool, one of the best things to do in Malta.

Located only 10 minutes from Marsaxlokk, it’s a natural pool that was formed by erosion and an incredible place to take a refreshing dip.

Bear in mind that the only ways to get into the water are by using the ladders or leaping from the edge, but that definitely adds a layer of adventure!

Also, while I personally loved St Peter’s Pool, I wouldn’t recommend coming with young children as there are almost no shaded areas and dangerous cliffs.

If you’re renting a car, you will find two free parking lots nearby making it easily accessible.

All in all, going to St. Peter’s Pool is one of the activities you should definitely include in your Malta itinerary !

Have you got travel insurance for your trip?!

We all know accidents can happen and having Heymondo Insurance will save you thousands of dollars if something goes wrong.

Heymondo offers low-cost Travel Insurance to keep you covered on all your adventures.

VISIT MARSASCALA & THE SALT PANS

Marsaskala is a traditional fishing village located on the southeast coast of Malta and boasts a stunning bay.

Other than its bay, the village is known for its delicious restaurants and cafes, where you can bring your laptop and work for a couple of hours or more.

After sipping on your morning coffee, be sure to head over to the Zonqor Point Salt Pans, another one of the famous places to visit in Malta.

To get the best photos, you will want to come early morning as the salt pans tend to be in the shade after midday, especially in the wintertime.

RELATED ARTICLE: BEST CAMERA GEAR FOR TRAVEL

GO SWIMMING AT ST THOMAS BAY

For Malta attractions that are off-the-beaten-path, head over to St Thomas Bay, a beautiful sandy beach on the south coast of Malta in Marsascala.

The water is clean and clear, making it perfect for swimming. There are also plenty of sun loungers and parasols, so you can relax on the beach all day.

What you’ll like the most, especially during the summer, is that you won’t find many tourists since it’s mostly a residential area.

CHECK OUT THE BLUE GROTTO VIEWPOINT

The Blue Grotto is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Malta.

The Grotto is made up of 7 stunning caves and is located on the south coast of the island and can be reached by boat from Wied iż-Żurrieq Harbour.

If you’re planning to rent a car for the weekend and drive to the Blue Grotto, drive to Żurrieq, and the signs for the Grotto will be indicated on the way.

Apart from the stunning viewpoint, you also get the opportunity to swim in and outside the caves, and that is an incredible experience, to say the least!

The BEST Affordable Camera For Travel

If you’re on the hunt for a professional camera for traveling, check out the Canon G7 X Mark II .

This tiny camera fits in your pocket, captures high-quality photos and videos, and has Wi-Fi so you can instantly transfer to your phone!

VISIT MARSAXLOKK FISHING VILLAGE & MARKETS

Marsaxlokk is a traditional and biggest fishing village in Malta, located on the southeast coast of the island.

The village is known for its colorful boats and fresh seafood, and it’s a popular spot for locals to enjoy lunch on Sundays.

Also, I want to highlight that Marsaxlokk is near St Peter’s Pool as I mentioned above, and you can plan to visit both spots on a Sunday before relaxing back at your hotel or at a nearby beach.

TAKE PHOTOS INSIDE TA KALANKA SEA CAVE

Ta Kalanka Sea Cave is a little-known cave in Malta, located in Delimara. It’s a natural treasure and a must-see on your lap around the island.

Apart from seeing the view of the bay from the top of the cave, you can make your way down the steps to go swimming and sunbathe under the cliffs. You can also go inside the cave and take amazing photos.

Safe to say it’s one of the best free activities in Malta and I recommend visiting early morning between 9 am and 12 pm for the best shots.

Pssst! Check out this AWESOME travel bag!

The Nomatic 40L is the best travel bag on the market, perfect for weekend trips or month-long adventures!

Featuring multiple compartments for clothes, shoes, laptop, water bottle, RFID-protected pocket, and more.

It’s designed to fit the maximum size allowed for carry-on luggage, so you’ll never have to spend money on check-in baggage again!

SPEND THE DAY IN VALLETTA

Valletta is the capital of Malta, and its fortified city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

It’s located on the eastern coast of the island and is home to many historical landmarks, including St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the Grand Master’s Palace.

Here, you will find endless restaurants, cafes, and nightlife venues to enjoy a drink outside. Also, the places to stay in Valletta are among the most unique ones in Malta, so I recommend booking yours here.

BEST THINGS TO SEE IN VALLETTA

Below you will find a list of all the must-see attractions in Valletta, and you may also want to consider booking a Valletta Walking Tour.

Book Now: Valletta City Walking Tour

St john’s co-cathedral.

St. John’s Co-Cathedral is one of the most unique and beautiful churches in Malta, and it should be part of any Malta itinerary.

The interior of the church is impressive, with a stunning trompe l’oeil ceiling, flooring made of religious marble tombstones, and intricately carved altars.

The church also houses a number of important works of art, and, overall, St. John’s Co-Cathedral is a must-see for anyone visiting Malta.

Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens

The Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens are two of the most popular tourist attractions on the island and are within walking distance of each other.

The gardens are located in Valletta, overlooking the harbor and the Three Cities.

Both gardens feature a variety of Mediterranean plants and flowers, as well as a number of sculptures and fountains.

The Upper Garden also has a cafe and an open-air theatre, while the Lower Garden is more tranquil and home to a couple of cafes with views of the Grand Harbor entry and the Seige Bell.

Republic Street and Merchant Street

Republic Street and Merchant Street are two of the most vibrant and bustling streets in Malta.

Nestled in the heart of Valletta, they are lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, providing a wealth of options for both locals and visitors alike.

Republic Street is the principal and major street in Valletta and is home to many of the capital’s most popular attractions, including Casa Rocca Piccola and St. George’s Square.

Merchant Street, the parallel street, on the other hand, is a more subdued street that is nonetheless filled with charm.

Its quaint shops and cafes offer a welcome respite from the more vibrant Republic Steet.

Whether you’re looking for a place to shop, eat, or simply take in the sights, Republic Street and Merchant Street are sure to have something for you.

Moreover, both streets house Baroque palazzos from the times of the Knights so a stroll down each of them doubles up as a walk into history.

Teatru Manoel

Teatru Manoel is the national theatre of Malta and one of the oldest working theatres in Europe. The theatre was built in 1731 and is named after Fra António Manoel de Vilhena.

It’s located in the capital city of Valletta and has a capacity of 623 people. The theatre has a rich history and has hosted some of the world’s most famous performers, including Boris Christoff, Mirella Freni, Sir Donald Wolfit, and Dame Kiri Te Kanawa.

Today, the theatre continues to be a popular venue for both local and international productions.

In addition to hosting plays and musicals, the theatre also hosts ballet performances, operas, and classical concerts.

The National Museum of Archaeology

The 2-story National Museum of Archaeology houses an extensive collection of artifacts from the Maltese Islands, dating back to the Neolithic period (5900 to 2500 BC).

The collection includes a wide range of objects, from funerary urns to amphorae to the terracotta sarcophagus and more.

The museum also has a library and study center, which are open to the public. Researchers from all over the world come to the National Museum of Archaeology to study the Maltese Islands’ rich history and culture.

While this isn’t an adventurous Malta tourist attraction, it’s definitely an important part of Maltese history, and a visit is definitely worth it.

Check Out This Must-Have Travel Accessory!

When arriving in a new country, not being able to charge your phone and gadgets is a nightmare.

Equip yourself with a Universal Travel Adapter which works in 150+ countries around the world.

THREE CITIES TOUR

The Three Cities are three fortified towns in Malta – Vittoriosa (also called Birgu), Cospicua, and Senglea, with Vittoriosa being the oldest, which was established before the Middle Ages.

Senglea and Cospicua were founded in the 16th and 17 centuries, and all 3 cities boast endless interesting spots from narrow streets, traditional Maltese townhouses, churches, a yacht marina, and more.

Reaching the Three Cities is pretty straightforward; From Valletta, head over to Upper Barrakka Garden and take the Barrakka Lift to go down.

Not far from here, on the left, you can walk to the departure point and take a 10-minute boat to reach Birgu. Before starting to explore around, make sure to take awesome shots of the views over Valletta!

To visit the 3 Cities, I recommend joining a half-day tour, which takes about 4 hours.

Generally, such a tour costs around $40, and you get to visit all three cities walking around, taking the coach, and even the traditional Maltese “dghajsa” boat.

While you can visit the Three Cities by yourself, going with an expert local guide is the way to go for the best stories and facts about the area!

EXPLORE THE FAMOUS POPEYE VILLAGE

Popeye Village is a charming collection of rustic wooden buildings that were used as the filming location for the 1980 musical film Popeye, starring Robin Williams.

The village is situated in Anchor Bay and it’s one of the more popular activities in Malta where visitors can explore the various buildings made of wood and even go for a swim in the ocean.

While it’s mostly a tourist attraction for kids, I still had a great time, and you can find boat rides, a few stores, ocean trampolines, and restaurants.

SEE THE VIEW FROM DINGLI CLIFFS WINDOW

One of the best places to visit in Malta at any time during the week is the view from the Dingli Cliffs Window where you can marvel at the most dramatic cliffs on the west coast.

You’ll find Dingli Cliffs up north of the Blue Grotto at 250m above sea level, which is the highest point in Malta.

Other than being a stunning place to visit, I also recommend coming for sunset – I guarantee you won’t be disappointed!

You should know that it’s quite difficult to reach as there’s only a bus per hour and no parking lot, so you will have to park on the roadside and hike for 10 minutes to get here.

Take Your Photos & Videos To New Heights!

The DJI Mini 3 Pro is the most affordable, user-friendly drone camera suitable for all levels!

This travel-sized drone captures 4K/60fps video, 48MP photo, and has 34 minutes flight time.

CHECK OUT THE BEAUTIFUL GNEJNA BAY

Gnejna Bay is one of Malta’s hidden gems, nestled in a secluded cove on the island’s northwest coast, and is renowned for its unspoiled beauty and clear turquoise waters.

You can enjoy a refreshing swim or explore the bay’s dramatic cliffs and caves. With its stunning scenery and abundance of wildlife, Gnejna Bay is not to be missed on your list of things to do on Malta.

Lastly, if you’re a family working remotely, then it’s the perfect place to go with children – you can have a BBQ, swim for a couple of hours, or play badminton on the beach.

KAYAK TO QARRABA BAY

Located only 10 minutes away from Gnejna Bay, you can rent a kayak and paddle around the headland to get to Qarraba Bay and enjoy the stunning turquoise water and other-worldly landscape.

Qarraba Bay is a small lagoon that lies at the foot of Qarraba headland’s northern slope, surrounded by steep cliffs and clay slopes. It’s separated from the rest of Gnejna Bay by a little rocky headland.

If you’re not keen to go kayaking and would rather explore on foot, you can go hiking along the easy trail around the headland from Gneja Bay which takes just a few minutes and enjoy the stunning views from the top.

KICK-BACK AT GOLDEN BAY BEACH

Some of the most stunning sites in Mellieha is Golden Bay Beach and you just can’t miss it while ticking off your things to do on Malta.

The sparkling turquoise water and soft golden sand make it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean sun.

Other than being a stunning beach, it’s massive and you can spend the day here playing volleyball, swimming, sunbathing, windsurfing, and kayaking.

There are public toilets and shower amenities for beachgoers, and if you’re feeling hungry, you can grab a bite to eat at nearby restaurants.

It’s also possible to rent loungers for €5 and umbrellas for €4, so spending the day here during the weekend is a breeze.

DISCOVER PARADISE BAY BEACH

Malta is home to endless beautiful beaches, and while it’s far from being the biggest, Paradise Bay Beach is simply stunning and one of the unmissable places to visit in Malta.

The turquoise water is incredibly clean, and you can work on your tan, go swimming for a few hours, or rent a kayak to paddle around.

There are also public showers that you can use for 1 euro, rent sunbeds with an umbrella for 20 euros, and even buy a beer for as little as 3 euros.

Alternatively, for a proper meal, Paradise Bay Lido is a nice, delicious restaurant you should definitely try out.

All in all, Paradise Bay Beach is one of the top Malta tourist attractions that you can’t miss.

BOOK A TOUR OF BLUE LAGOON & COMINO ISLAND

Another incredible tour you can take is the Blue Lagoon and Comino Island Tour , two of the most popular tourist spots in Malta.

First, you’ll visit the beautiful Blue Lagoon to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters or simply relax on the white-sand beaches. Alternatively, chill on the boat while taking in the landscapes.

Then, it’s off to Comino Island where you can explore the island’s dramatic coastline, marvel at the stunning views, and even go for a swim in the ocean.

Comino is one of the most beautiful and secluded islands in Malta and a great place to visit if you’re looking for some peace and quiet as there are no cars or roads on the island.

If you’re not joining a tour, you can get around by foot or by boat, with plenty of caves and beaches to explore.

Book Now: Blue Lagoon and Comino Island Tour

Keep Yo’ Sh*t Organized!

Packing cubes are a traveler’s best friend, perfect for organizing your shirts, pants, underwear, and more!

Shacke Pak Cubes make packing easier and leaves extra space in your bag to fit more essentials.

DAY TRIP TO GOZO ISLAND

Gozo Island is one of the most exciting destinations you can visit on a day trip from Malta .

This small island is packed with things to see and do, from exploring ancient ruins to relaxing on pristine beaches. And best of all, it’s just a short ferry ride away from the Maltese mainland.

One of the highlights of a visit to Gozo is the Ġgantija neolithic temples that date back to around 3600 BC, even before the pyramids of Egypt. These impressive ruins offer a fascinating insight into the island’s rich history and are definitely worth a visit.

In addition, most day trips to Gozo Island will cover the fortified city of The Citadella in Victoria and Ta’ Pinu Basilica, which are must-sees on the island.

Whatever you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it on Gozo Island. So why not add it to your list of things to do on Malta?!

Book Now: Gozo Island Day Trip From Malta

BE AMAZED AT CORAL LAGOON

For a little adventure away from Valletta, make sure to check out Coral Lagoon, the most northern point on the island and definitely one of the best places to visit in Malta.

Coral Lagoon is easily accessed by car and from the jump-off point, it’s an easy 5-minute walk across the rocky landscape to reach the lagoon.

This natural wonder is home to an incredible variety of marine life, including vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of fish species, and you can go snorkeling both in and outside the cave.

Also, you should note that it’s forbidden to jump in the lagoon, and understandably so for its height.

In plain words, with its idyllic setting and colorful marine life, Coral Lagoon is an unforgettable place that is sure to leave you amazed.

BEACH DAY IN GHADIRA BAY

Being one of the biggest and most popular beaches in Malta, Ghadira Bay is only 5 minutes away from Popeye Village.

The sparkling blue water and soft white sand make it the perfect place to relax and soak up the Mediterranean sun.

There are plenty of activities on offer including, swimming, sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and even jet skiing.

And when you need a break from the beach, there are plenty of restaurants and bars nearby to enjoy a refreshing drink or bite to eat. Some even offer a reasonably-priced and wholesome lunch.

EXPERIENCE THE BUZZ IN ST. JULIAN’S BAY

One of the most popular tourist spots in Malta is St. Julian’s Bay which is renowned for its beautiful scenery, world-class restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.

While it’s the typical vacation spot, it’s home to some of Malta’s best restaurants and there are a ton of nightlife options in St. Julian’s Bay, from high-class bars to chill Irish pubs and even nightclubs.

Spending some time at St Julian’s Bay is one of the best things to do in Malta and I highly recommend spending one night here during the weekend.

WANDER AROUND THE HILLTOP CITY OF MDINA

For an extravagant, quiet, and peaceful touch during the day, make sure to visit Mdina, nestled in the heart of Malta Island.

The city is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and narrow streets where you can wander around its historic buildings and enjoy views of the surrounding countryside.

When in Mdina, make sure to visit Palazzo Santa Sofia, St Paul’s Cathedral, and Mdina Cathedral Museum.

There are also a number of cafes making it a great place to grab a bite to eat after exploring the city.

In addition, Mdina is located close to a number of other attractions, such as St Paul’s Catacombs and Dingli Cliffs, so you can combine all these locations on a one-day trip from Valetta.

VISIT ST. PAULS BAY

Looking for a breathtaking place to visit that will leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated?

Look no further than St. Paul’s Bay, a picturesque town located only 16 kilometers from Valletta, and one of the top Malta tourist attractions.

You can spend the day here during the weekend, come over for a romantic date at night, or simply enjoy the sunset.

On top of numerous cafes and restaurants, you will also find Bird Park Malta, Il-Bajja tax-Xama’ Beach for a quick swim, and even a chocolate factory for delicious treats.

You can get to St. Paul’s Bay by car, and the trip takes around 35 minutes while the journey by bus will take around 1 hour from Valletta.

WHAT TO PACK FOR MALTA

When visiting Malta, here are a few items I recommend taking with you:

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden money wallet.

Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!

Reusable Water Bottle

The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!

Travel Backpack

The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!

Quick-Dry Travel Towel

The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!

Portable PowerBank

Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!

FINAL THOUGHTS – PLACES TO VISIT IN MALTA

So there you have it, my top picks for things to do in Malta. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or just looking to relax on the beach, Malta has something for everyone.

Start booking your flights and accommodation as soon as possible so you don’t miss out. Malta is becoming a popular destination for tourists and is growing every year!

If you have any questions at all about Malta, please drop me a line below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!

Please know this post may contain affiliate links. When making a purchase through one of my links, I earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running. Rest assured, I only promote products and services that I personally use and recommend.

Click here to find out how you can support the site organically .

Many thanks!

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Notify me of follow-up comments via e-mail.

Work with us

Support the site

Plan Your Trip

Travel guides

Destinations

Hotel guides

Find best tours

Travel Gear

Travel resources

How to start a blog

Photography guides

Follow On Socials

© 2024 Jonny Melon Adventure Travel Blog. All rights reserved.

Privacy Policy | Terms | Sitemap

Our Romantic Guide to Malta

If you’re looking for the perfect romantic destination in Europe that brings together fabulous food, fascinating history and beautiful nature, consider visiting Malta. Located in the Mediterranean Sea southwest of Sicily, Malta is an archipelago of three islands: the main island where the capital Valletta is found, the more offbeat island of Gozo and the uninhabited island of Comino . In addition to allure of great weather, reasonable prices and the convenience of English as an official language , there is actually a large variety of things to do in Malta.

From picking your way through archaeological sites to hiking Gozo’s stunning landscape, you can easily fill five days, a week or more, but can also choose Malta as an add on of a few days from another European city. Plus you can actually get around quite easily without a car , especially for a first trip as main sites are accessible by public bus and ferry. What’s more, in our current climate, Malta is one of the safest Covid-19 travel destinations, therefore you can go stress-free AND the country is currently subsidizing hotel stays and some other activities ! The country is also very LGBTQ friendly and is hosting Europride in 2023, so that might be a good time to visit (or revisit!). Discover this enchanting island below!

General Tips & Planning 

New malta tourism authority travel incentives for fit travelers.

The Maltese government is currently offering rebates for hotel stays, ranging from €50-€100 per person/per night depending on the star ranking of your hotel and for stays of 3 nights or more. This goes up by 10% if you stay on the island of Gozo! The hotels in the program are also expected to match the Authority’s amount in equivalent sums for dining or other services at the hotel. More on the program here .

Tips for a Perfect Trip to Malta:

• Malta International Airport : is only a 10-15 minute journey from downtown Valletta, its capital city. There is a convenient city bus which can get you straight to the entrance to the historic centre. You can order a taxi at the official taxi stand, however, you can save money by downloading the local “Uber” style app called eCabs . Uber also exists on the island.
• Local buses : Malta has an excellent bus service which can get you to most parts of the two islands. Tickets can be purchased from the bus driver, it’s best to have exact change, although on some buses you can also pay by tapping your credit card. Tickets cost €1.50 in winter and €2 in summer. The single journey tickets can be used to get to any destination within two hours, this also means that you can sort of “hop on and off” in case you really wanted to visit one site that is a bit out of the way and nothing else you wanted to see is around it. There is also an u nlimited travel pass. Called Tallinja cards , the 7-Day Explore Card is €21 for unlimited travel on both islands. So if you think you’ll be taking the bus a lot, this could be a good option. That said, depending on where you are staying, you might be mixing and matching the bus with the local ferry. It can be tricky to find where to buy Tallinja cards as bus drivers do not sell them. See where to buy them here .
• Valletta Ferry Service : is a line of two ferries which go between Sliema and the three cities. An adult single ticket is €1.50 or a return ticket is €2.80. If you’ll be using the ferry several times, you can get a 7-day unlimited pass for €10. Ferries run every 30 minutes, see the schedule here .
• The Gozo Channel Ferry: is the official ferry which goes between the main island and second island of Gozo. It departs roughly ever 45 minutes and the journey takes 25 minutes. If you just want to take a quick trip to Gozo, there are private ferry companies that can take you there and back in one day as well as do some sightseeing boating along the way.
• Heritage Malta Pass : If you plan to visit several museums and historic sites, then you may want to get this €50 pass (discounted rate off-season). This is especially worth it if you want to see the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum (see below) which is € 35 and included in the pass (advanced reservation still required).
• Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum Reservation: While we’re on the topic of this site, one of the top archaeological sites of Malta, advance reservation is required since they only let 10 visitors inside at a time and on an obligatory guided tour (by audio-guide available in many languages). So be sure to book as soon as you book your flight!
• Tipping :  it is customary to leave a 5%-10% gratuity for wait staff. However, it’s worthwhile to check your bill as a service charge is sometimes automatically included, in which case you don’t need to leave any extra . It isn’t necessary to tip taxi drivers, but you could if you had exceptional service.

Now on to the fun stuff! Below is an outline of what I thought would make the perfect romantic holiday in Malta, but you could always do a little mixing and matching.

Brief Overview of Malta

What makes Malta so unique is that it really has dozens of layers of fascinating history. Around 5,000 BCE, the archipelago was inhabited by a mysterious civilisation that left behind a number of intriguing archaeological sites (see below). These people either died off or left the island and their vestiges remained hidden for millennia. The Phoenicians and the Carthaginians used the islands as an outpost before the Romans arrived in 218 BCE. The Arabs conquered the islands in 870 and their 200-year presence is still evident in the names of some towns, fortifications and in the hybrid Maltese language. In 1090 “neighboring” Sicily was won over by the Normans who also conquered Malta in the process.

After losing their bastion of Rhodes to the Turks, in 1530 Charles V giflted the Maltese Islands to the Knights Hospitaliers, also known as the Order of St John. Their wealth and patronage transformed the islands through the building of elaborate forts, mansions and churches. Everything was fine… until the arrival of Napoleon in 1798, who managed to hang onto the islands for two years until the British “freed” Malta in 1800… and stayed for 150 years. They left their own mark on Malta in the form of pubs, regal statues and the widespread use of English over the islands. Malta gained its independence from England in 1964 and has been a member of the European Union since 2004, in fact, its the EU’s smallest nation state!

Day 1: Exploring Valletta

Although it wasn’t always the capital city of Malta, when it became the country’s centre of power in 1571, Valletta was embellished with extravagant buildings and gorgeous city streets. But before you start your exploring, get fuelled up with breakfast or a coffee at the Caffe Cordina . First opened in 1837, the interior of this historic cafe is lovely, however, its chic terrace spread over the Republic Square is where you’ll want to sit. The pretty square is presided over by a statue of Queen Victoria, a reminder of the country’s former links to the British Empire.

Over your coffee you can decide which of Valletta’s many sites you might like to pop into, but the safe and beautiful city is perfect for simply wandering. Located on a peninsula, the grid organisation of the streets makes it easy to find your way around. Let yourself get lost down its quiet, little trafficked streets, stop to gaze up at a decadent palaces and steal kisses to the backdrop of fortifications or the sea.

Of the main tourists sites in the city, St John’s Co-Cathedral is a must. Although it doesn’t look all that special from the outside, the interior is spectacular. An artistic masterpiece of the Baroque era, the wealthy Grand Masters of the Order of St John’s decked it out in gilded carvings, passionate paintings and detailed statues. Its most famous works of art are two Caravaggio paintings (located in a side chapel you visit at the end of the circuit), the most precious being The Beheading of St John the Baptist , the Italian master’s largest work and the only one he signed.

The Grand Master’s Palace is also an important site to visit the interior. The official residence of the Grand Masters of the Order of Malta, the opulent building provides valuable insight into the importance of the Order and its influence on the island. The pretty courtyards and fountains add some extra romantic allure.

After lunch I suggest visiting the Casa Rocca Piccola. I’m a big fan of smaller museums and house museums and this noble residence is a true delight. Dating back to the 16th century, the palace has been owned and lived in by the family of the Marquis de Piro for nine generations. Guided tours in English take place on the hour (last one at 4pm) and reveal the fascinating story of the home and family as you make your way through the elegant rooms decorated with antiques and family heirlooms. After your visit be sure to visit the underground bunkers and then enjoy a quiet moment in its enchanting courtyard garden.

If you’re looking for another romantic historic site to visit, then stop in at the Teatru Manoel . Constructed in 1732 to entertain the Knights of the Order and the island’s nobles, this is one of the oldest theaters in Europe. Visitors can buy a ticket which grants access to its gorgeous gilded hall and an exhibit on the theater’s history. Alternatively, you can check its schedule to see if there are any concerts or performances during your stay.

Afterwards weave your way through the quiet back streets to the Upper Barraka Garden .  The lovely garden has tall trees, pretty arches and romantic benches. Don’t leave without going under the arches where there’s a plaza offering a stunning vista towards the Three Cities (see below).  Why not finish your day with a walk around the old fortifications, around the Saint John’s and Saint James’ Bastions, to further soak in the city’s ambiance or settle down onto a terrace for aperitivo .

A Unique Experience in Valletta w ith Real Malta Tours

If you’re looking for a different way to experience Valletta, then I highly recommend Real Malta Tours. I’m a big fan our quality and unique tours. They provide you will wonderful insight into your destination much beyond the brief few lines in your guidebook, plus your guide will almost certainly give you other excellent insight into your location and other tips. I was very happy to come across the website of Real Malta Tours as they seemed to embody this perfectly. Run by dynamic duo, Chris and Giacomo, passionate and knowledgeable local guides, the company offers wonderful insider tours of Malta. While they have more traditional private tours to orientate you to Malta’s top sites (Valletta, Mdina, Gozo), they have some more offbeat tours, including one on the history of Corsairs in Malta! … Corsairs as in state-authorized… pirates!

I had the pleasure of joining this tour and was transported back through time thanks to my Corsair-guide’s riveting stories, accompanied by historic images and other visuals. It was such an amazing way to discover Valletta, I could recommend it more highly! It would also add a fun and original element to your romantic itinerary! More information about this tour here .

Valletta By Night & Dining

Rubino : Opened in 1906, this family-run restaurant is one of the oldest eateries in Valletta. It serves daily changing Maltese and Mediterranean dishes. 

Rampila : Located within the historic bastions of the city, this is perhaps the most uniquely set restaurant in Valletta. On nice days, which is usually the case for Malta, sit on the terrace surrounded by the stone fortifications. On the menu are nicely presented modern Maltese and Mediterranean cuisine.

Adesso : Meaning “now” in Italian, this discreetly chic bistrot specializes in the day’s freshest seasonal ingredients used in their creative Maltese/Italian dishes.

Trabuxu Wine Bar and Bistrot : A dual establishment, the wine bar is set within a 400-year-old stone vaulted cellar, and the restaurant has a warm decor with Parisian-style café tables and chairs and colorful art. The regularly changing menu has Maltese and Mediterranean dishes using fresh local ingredients.

Ortygia Food Experience : This cozy bistrot has great Sicilian food and a charming terrace on a small side street.

Capo Crudo : For a stylish dinner with a gorgeous view, book a table at this chic seafood restaurant located between the city fortifications and the sea and with a retractable roof and large windows.

The Phoenicia : The elegant restaurant of this historic hotel is ideal for a special occasion dinner.

Day 2: The Three Cities

A trip Malta wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Three Cities: Birgu, Senglea and Cospicua. Located along the three-fingered peninsula to the east of Valletta, Birgu used to be the capital of Malta. In addition to having some interesting historic sites, it’s also an easy 15-minute f erry ride over from Valletta (the little ferry departs from beneath the Upper Barraka Garden so you could technically wait to visit the gardens on your way over the the Three Cities, there’s an elevator or you can take the stairs). 

Hopping off the ferry, start with a meander through the back streets of Senglea. heading west you’ll eventually come to the Gardjola Gardens , a pretty park at the tip of the point. It offers splendid views over to Valletta and Birgu. After snapping some pics of the vista, take cute pics in the little bastion nooks or take a moment to relax together on a bench.

When you’re ready, walk down to the water (facing Birgu) where you can pick up a dgħajsa , a  traditional water taxi, which you can hire to take you over to Birgu. If you’re ready for lunch then you’re in the right spot as where the taxis drop you off, near the St Angelo fort, is the excellent restaurant Terrone . Not only does it have a unique location at the base of the historic fortress, it also serves fantastic market-based contemporary Maltese cuisine. If you don’t eat there, there are plenty of restaurants along the waterfront with outdoor terraces overlooking the port.

After lunch you should visit the St Angelo Fort . Originally constructed as a medieval castle, it was rebuilt in the mid 1500s by the Knights of Saint John as a bastioned fortress. The imposing fort offers a chance to further learn about the Order of Saint John and Malta’s history as well as take in some stunning views. If you don’t feel like going inside, you can also walk along the rocks below, the views aren’t quite as good… but it’s free!

Afterwards take some time to walk along the ramparts and to explore the narrow and lovely streets of Birgu, stop for an ice cream as you go. When you’re done your wanderings, stop at one of the terraces along the port for a sunset drink before returning to Valletta.

Day 3: Malta History Option 

If you’re interested in history, then you could combine two facets of the island’s history on your third day. Start by taking a 30-minute bus inland to Mdina/Rabat. The fortified city was the capital of Malta capital from antiquity to medieval times. Since it was the capital, the town is dotted with large mansions. The best activity to do in the charming town is to simply wander. Keep your eyes peeled… there are all kinds of lovely details here and there on buildings. Walking along the ramparts is also fun, where you can get some great views. There is also a park within the old moat. For a break, stop in at the Fontanella Tea Garden , a pretty café near the cathedral, with a panoramic terrace.

At some point, you’ll certainly come across the cathedral, which is lovely, but since there’s an entrance fee it mightn’t be necessary to go inside if you’d visited St John’s in Valletta (the fee includes the cathedral museum, a highlight of which is a stunning collection of Durer prints). Other sites in town which are somewhat romantic include the Domus Romana (the remains of a a roman villa) and St. Paul’s Grotto (part of the Wigancourt Collegiate Museum). 

If you decide to come to Mdina in the afternoon instead, you could have dinner after your sightseeing at the Grotto Tavern . Located in a  2000-year-old natural cave, it might be the most unique restaurant on the whole island! Plus it has a great seasonal menu of Maltese and Mediterranean specialties with a modern twist. If you’re looking for a chic meal with a stunning view, try de Mondion , a one-Michelin starred restaurant located in a 17th-century dining room in the The Xara Palace Hotel.

It would be a shame to visit Malta without visiting at least one of its ancient archaeological sites. I weighed up the various options and for first time visitors with less than a week in Malta (and without a car), I recommend pairing the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum and the Tarxien Temples as these sites are very interesting AND are nearby each other. 

The Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum is Malta’s most significant ancient site. It’s located in a local part of Valletta and is easily reached by public bus. The unique site consists of an underground, multilevel burial site dating back to 4,000 BCE, but hidden beneath houses until the early 20th century. Carved directly into the rock bed and mirroring what an above ground monumental architecture would look like, the site is exceptionally unique and awe-inspiring. Some caverns are decorated in wall paintings or carvings. As it is fragile, the site can only be visited on a half-audio guided tour. These take place on the hour and since only ten visitors are allowed inside at a time, advance booking is required (which you can do here ).

Found around a 10-minute walk from the Hypogeum, the Tarxien Temples is the remains of four megalithic temples built between 3,600 and 2,500 BCE. The site was discovered by a farmer in 1913 and excavated into the 1920s. Protected by a large canvas covering, an app and descriptive panels explain the various sections as you work your way along a path observing well-cut massive stone blocks, reliefs, statues, ‘oracle’ holes and altars. This site provides additional context into the bewildering prehistoric civilizations of Malta.

Day 3/4: Romantic Day & Overnight Cruise Option

Alternatively, another great activity to do in Malta is take a boat cruise, it is a grouping of islands after all! This could be squeezed into one of the other days, or done on a day 4 (or 5 or 6!). There is an abundance of options, however, the one which I felt stood out above the rest were the cruises offer by Hera Cruises .

They offer full-day cruises aboard a luxurious Turkish Gulet which allows you to take in Malta’s spectacular scenery from the vantage point of the water. You’ll be able to see a number of charming villages (including the Marsaxlokk fishing village and the quirky Popeye Village), beautiful bays, the majestic Dingli Cliffs and the Blue Grotto. It also circles the island of Comino and stops in the famous Blue Lagoon for a swim or snorkel. Lunch, drinks and hotel transfer are included, all for the price of 57 euros/person. If you want to add something extra special to your romantic trip to Malta, they also offer a luxury cruise of 2 nights/3 days on the Hera II during which clients sleep on the boat and the boat can also be rented for weddings! Contact them through their website for further information about these options.

Day 4/5 or more: Gozo

If you’re just having a quick getaway to Malta, you could forgo visiting its second island, Gozo, however…. that would be a shame as it’s really lovely! Despite its size, there is also a lot to do on this island, enough to fill a few days or more. The island’s main city, Victoria , is charming and has a majestic citadel which you can visit the exterior for free and from where you can take in exceptional views of the surrounding rolling hills. Stop for a coffee in the pretty Independence Square then spend some time wandering its historic laneways just beyond it. If you stay in Victoria for dinner, I highly recommend Maldonado Bistro . Located in arched cellars, they have an excellent menu of modern Gozan cuisine focusing on locally sourced ingredients. 

Here are my top romantic suggestions for Gozo:

• Ramla beach: This is one of the prettiest beaches of the Maltese islands. It is a long curved bay of golden sands and there are nice views of it from the cliff hillside next to it.
• Ġgantija temples : Another important archaeological site, this one is probably nicer than Tarxien Temples and it also has a breathtaking location and views. 
• Sunset in Xlendi: This tiny village in the south of the island is one of the best coastal places in Malta to see the sunset. Be sure to go along the cliff towards the tower for a good view.
• Book a B&B with a Terrace/View : You might not need to go to Xlendi if you pick the right be accommodation (if you decided to stay overnight in Gozo – which I recommend!). There are some great small hotels and “farm stays” which often face over the undulating valleys of the island… where they also grow grapes and make fairly good local wine!
• Hiking : The island is also wonderful for hiking and a lot of people come just for that. Even a small hike of a few hours is a great way to take in the island’s stunning scenery. An easy “hike” can be done by visiting the Salt Pans and continuing on the road which leads to some great view points.
• Salt Pans of Marsalforn : Salt Pans might not seem romantic, however, these historic ones, some dating back to Roman times, have a gorgeous location on the water and have the backdrop of unusual rock formations. If you’re walking from Marsalforn, be sure to go past the first ones as there are more further along which are the nicest and there are also a few small beaches where you can take a swim.
• Boat Trip to Comino island: The third and uninhabited island of Malta, Comino is nice for walking, swimming and relaxing on the beach. There are many small boat companies which leave frequently from the port and which visit the Blue Lagoon on the way back… or you can also go by kayak!

See … there is lots to do on Gozo! Stay a few days to fully enjoy yourself and simply soak in the islands stunning vistas and landscape.

Where to Stay in Valletta

Here are a few suggestions for your romantic places to stay in Valletta and the Three Cities.

Palazzo Consigna : Located within a traditional Maltese townhouse in the heart of Valletta, this boutique hotel has 13 rooms each with its own decor and feel. More information and discounted rates the hotel’s Agoda Page .

Palais Le Brun : This seventeenth century baroque palace in a convenient spot in Valletta has been transformed into a chic boutique hotel, with a rooftop pool. More information and discounted rates the hotel’s   here .

The Phoenicia : One of the island’s most famous hotels, this grand establishment facing the main gate to Valletta is perfect for those that want to be elegantly pampered. More information and discounted rates   here .

Casa Ellul : This swank boutique luxury hotel is found within a Victorian-period palace. It’s located on a quieter street yet it’s steps away from Valletta’s top sites. Check for the discounted rates here .

66 Saint Paul’s: This small boutique luxury hotel only has six rooms, but it has a rooftop terrace, pool and spa, which you’ll have virtually to yourself! Check for the discounted rates here .

  The Coleridge : This stylish boutique hotel, also in a refurbished townhouse, takes romantic decor to a whole new level. It might be a bit over the top, but it could be the right fit for an extra romantic trip! More information and discounted rates   here .

Grand Harbour Vista : If you’d like to live like a local during your stay, consider this lovely apartment over in Senglea which has stunning views of the harbour, Valletta and Saint Angelo fort.

Use our handy Romantic Malta Google Map to help with your trip planning.

I hope you enjoyed these suggestions for the perfect romantic holiday in Malta and I hope you’ll love the country as much as I did! If you have any other suggestions for romantic things to do in Malta, feel free to add them to the comments section below!

Bon voyage! 

• Latest Posts

Lily Heise is a Paris-based writer, originally hailing from Canada. She has lived in Paris since 2000 and contributes to international and local publications. Her work has been featured in The Huffington Post, Business Insider, CondéNastTraveler.com, Playboy.com, Frommer's, DK Eyewitness Guides, HiP Paris and others.

• The Most Romantic Historic Restaurants in the 6th
• A Wellness Reset on Brittany’s Emerald Coast
• Romantic Tours of Paris & Trip Planning

You may also like

Our romantic guide to mallorca.

A Perfect Romantic Getaway to the Greek Islands: Santorini, Mykonos & Paros

Our Romantic Mini-guide to Southern Africa

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notice: It seems you have Javascript disabled in your Browser. In order to submit a comment to this post, please write this code along with your comment: 26fa1c06c147d7a67878b728d16d5fd7

More Stories

Where to Eat Around the Sacré-Coeur in Montmartre

Avoid the touristy eateries around Sacré-Coeur at these places from deluxe sandwiches to contemporary bistros.

The Most Romantic Couple Destinations In Malta

anchovyAdmin

Previous post why malta should be the next name on your vacation wishlist, next post guide to the best beaches in malta, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

ST Hotels, owns and operates 5 hotels all located in the Gzira/Sliema Area..

Want to receive exclusive offers in your inbox monthly? Subscribe to our newsletter here.

• Email address

ST Projects ST Properties Stivala Group

Other pages

About St Hotels

Privacy Policy

Terms and Conditions

• Head Office: 143, The Strand Gzira-Sliema, GZR 1026 Malta
• Telephone: (+356) 22 640 000
• Fax: (+356) 21 346212
• Email: [email protected]

© 2024 ST Hotels. Powered by ANCHOVY.

• Valletta View
• Alavits Hotel
• Bayview Hotel & SPA
• Blubay Apartments
• Sliema Hotel
• Loyalty Scheme
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Guest Name *
• Nationality * Afghanistan Åland Islands Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory Brunei Darrussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Cocos Islands Colombia Comoros Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Cook Islands Costa Rica Côte d'Ivoire Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini (Swaziland) Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Heard and McDonald Islands Holy See Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Isle of Man Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jersey Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macau Macedonia Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island North Korea Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine, State of Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Réunion Romania Russia Rwanda Saint Barthélemy Saint Helena Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia South Korea South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay US Minor Outlying Islands Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Wallis and Futuna Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe
• Gender * Select... Male Female Prefer Not to Answer
• Phone Number *

(members promo code will be sent to the provided e-mail address within 48 hrs).  

• We have raised our already high standards related to cleaning and disinfecting surfaces.

• We have made hand sanitizer available throughout our hotels and provided instructions to our staff to keep high standards of  hygiene.

• Bins in public areas are being emptied daily.

• Our staff has been given clear guidelines on what to do if a customer or an employee is feeling unwell and may have contracted COVID-19.

• At breakfast in our restaurant, we change the serving utensils, bread and butter knives and the cloths protecting food at regular, short intervals.

• The best way to prevent infection is to ensure good hand hygiene. Wash your hands with warm water and soap and use hand sanitizer when necessary. Don’t forget to clean your mobile phone each time too.

• Avoid handshaking and close contact with people as much as possible. Keep 1 meter social distance whenever possible.

• Avoid using cash, pay by contactless payment/card.

• Do not share your glass or drinking bottle.

• Cough considerately: cover your mouth and nose with a paper handkerchief when you cough or sneeze. If you do not have a paper handkerchief, sneeze or cough into the upper parts of your sleeves.

• Put used paper handkerchiefs in the bin immediately after use, or flush them in the toilet.

• Be responsible and contact our reception if you suspect you have contracted COVID-19.

Our Travel Advisory Policy

Given the flexibility our guests and customers need right now we have implemented the following policy which applies both to existing as well as new reservations.

Best Flexible Rate: This rate offers maximum flexibility to change or cancel your reservation. For direct bookings this rate can be fully changeable or refundable up to 24 hours prior to the day of arrival.

Bookings via a third-party: For bookings made through an online booking platform (e.g. Booking.com, Expedia) or third-party travel professionals, please contact them directly – you should refer to their terms and conditions.

Our Commitment to Cleanliness

As we welcome you back to our hotel, we are committed to providing you with a safe environment that aligns with expert protocols for working to defeat COVID-19.  We will actively monitor and evolve our solutions to ensure a continued focus on the health and safety of our guests and employees.

Our property is compliant with all the health and safety standards required by the Malta Tourism Authority.

Public Spaces: Additional deep cleaning of high touch surfaces, social distancing, ‘last cleaned’ charts, best practices for pools, fitness centres and lounges.

Guest Rooms: In guest rooms, we have elevated our rigorous protocols to thoroughly clean all surfaces with hospital-grade disinfectants. And we will be placing disinfecting wipes in each room for your use.

Hand Sanitizer: Hand sanitizing stations have been installed at hotel entrances, at our front desks, our elevator banks, and meeting spaces.

Social Distancing: Signage in public spaces will remind our guests to maintain social distancing. We will be adding partitions at check-in to provide an extra level of precaution for our guests and our employees.

Powered by WhatsApp Chat

WhatsApp Chat is free, download and try it now here!

• New & Now
• Plan Your Visit
• Things To Do
• Where To Stay
• Restaurant Directory

Are you wondering where to go or what to do this Valentine’s Day to win the favours of the one you love? Well, Malta is a already a romantic destination - it is beautiful, charming and oozes character - so you’ve already got a heads up! Now, where to go to make the most of it? Here are my pick of the most delightful romantic spots in Malta and Gozo for some quiet time to celebrate your love and each other.

1. Ghajn Tuffieha at Sunset

Riviera Beach is a magical location for a romantic sunset with a bottle of wine on Valentine’s Day. This is a great spot to cuddle up with your date - just lay a blanket on the soft sand and enjoy the natural spectacle. Golden sands, aquamarine sea, green slopes dotted with the colours of early wildflowers and a historic watchtower make a delightful sight. Oh, and the clouds will take on ever-changing hues after the sun has set. Take your camera!

2. Mdina Bastions

All of Mdina, from start to finish, will make you feel like you have just been dropped into a Medieval fairytale. There is something beautiful to admire wherever you lay your eyes along its narrow streets, massive historic homes and majestic bastion walls. Whisk your beloved to the Bastions Square to see the entire island and feel on top of the world together. And when you're done, celebrate with delicious chocolate cake from Fontanella , the nearby cafe.

3. Sa Maison Garden, Floriana

This garden is lovely, yet, the most marvellous thing about it is that it remains a secret of sorts, and it is quite likely that you may have it all to yourselves! Located on Floriana Bastions (the entrance is down the hill from the Police Headquarters), it offers stunning views of Marsamxett Harbour, Msida Marina and the fort at Manoel Island. Some of its secrets include historic carved graffiti - who will find them first?

4. Wied iz-Zurrieq

This spot is simply charming. Colourful little boats take visitors to see the wonderful Blue Grotto on good weather days, when you will also find people sat at cafes soaking in the sunshine. You can also enjoy good food at one of the restaurants, walk along the amazing coast, contemplate the mysterious Filfla island and watch the sunset.

5. Mellieha Sanctuary Square

This is a picture perfect viewpoint for memorable photos of the two of you that include Maltese culture and Malta’s natural beauty. Set in dreamy surroundings, this quaint square, which is rarely busy, grants gorgeous views of Gozo and Comino islands. Book a romantic hotel night in Mellieha and fully enjoy the village cafes, restaurants, places of interest, countryside, caves and beaches.

6. Gardjola Gardens, Senglea

Lead your love across historic gardens to the Gardjola (guard tower) and go in for a kiss or even pop the big question right there as you admire the magnificent Grand Harbour without any of the crowds. The Gardjola is decorated with symbols that represent the protection of the Maltese shores - a perfect spot to declare that you want to protect each other forever.

7. Dingli Chapel at Sunset

There are few things in Malta as breathtaking as standing at the edge of Dingli Cliffs looking out across the big blue, stretching undisturbed for miles into the horizon. Place a little chapel at the edge of this cliff and the scene is complete for a wedding proposal.

Pretty much everything about Gozo oozes charm, and is ideal for a romantic date. Whether you choose to visit a secluded beach such as Wied il-Ghasri or Mgarr ix-Xini, hold hands at the awe-inspiring window at Wied il-Mielah at sunset, get lost together in the historic Citadel or have a romantic dinner at Xlendi, you will find yourselves captivated by the sheer beauty and calm of Gozo.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

• Get in touch

We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalized ads or content, and analyze our traffic. By clicking "Accept", you consent to our use of cookies.

Sign Up and save all your favourite restaurants, attractions, events, articles and experiences for a later date and access them from any device.

Loading Search Results

Home » Malta holidays guide » Where to stay in Malta

Where to Stay in Malta: Best places and Malta resorts

Knowing where to stay in Malta and knowing the different resorts in Malta before you book can make or break your  Malta holiday .

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to suggesting the best places and resorts to stay in Malta, but I’ll do my best to provide you with several options based on my local knowledge.

I’m a tourist-turned-expat and have helped thousands of visitors to the Maltese islands have a memorable trip.

Here’s what I’ve put together in this article:

• A guide to the different resorts in Malta
• Info on what it’s like to stay in different areas of Malta (and Gozo)
• Suggestions for different types of travellers and their general needs

Looking for accommodation in Malta? Have a look at  my best Malta hotel recommendations , check out my selection of 33 Best Malta Airbnb holiday lets or take a look at my overview of accommodation in Malta  for other options!

What are the best places to stay in Malta?

The best places to stay in Malta are:

• Valletta – Malta’s capital, great for culture-seekers wanting to do a lot of sightseeing. Less suitable for beach-goers. A small city packed with history.
• Buġibba, Qawra or St. Paul’s Bay – A cluster of seaside towns with a wide range of accommodation. Good base for sightseeing across Malta and Gozo.
• Sliema – Seaside town in a more urban part with a charming inner town area and wide open sea views.
• Julian’s and Paceville – Busier, urban parts but best for nightlife and dining out.
• Mellieħa – A quieter, more traditional Maltese town in the North, close to the bigger sandy beaches and quieter than the above resorts.
• The Three Cities – A group of three fortified towns, great if you love history and sightseeing. Not suitable for beach-goers and party-goers.
• Mdina and Rabat – The medieval Silent City and its authentic suburb, Rabat offer a quieter and more romantic option for those who prefer sightseeing over beaches.
• Gozo – Second-largest island that’s part of Malta. A lot quieter, more rural, and has lots of natural beauty, bays, and beaches. Great for a quiet holiday or retreat.

Read on for more details and recommended hotels for each of these resorts to decide where to stay in Malta.

Where to Stay in Malta: My Top 8 Resorts and Destinations

Valletta is Malta’s capital city , offers a high concentration of points of interest and museums/attractions, making it an ideal destination for where to stay in Malta. This walled city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was named the European capital of culture back in 2018.

It’s not really a tourist resort, but it is still a popular place to stay and not as busy as you’d expect a capital city to be. Valletta is where some of the best hotels in Malta can be found.

Notes to consider:

• A unique place to stay all year round , full of history and hustle and bustle of a popular place of work for locals with a setting of Baroque architecture all around. Best place to stay in Malta off-season as well.
• Good choice of quality restaurants and you can easily spend 3 full days exploring  what is actually a very small city. More info in  my travel guide for Valletta here .
• Beaches: No beaches in Valletta, bar a few rocky places to take a dip.
• Accommodation: Luxury 5-star resorts and boutique hotels are most popular here, and hard to find budget accommodation. Privately rented apartments offer affordable options.
• Location: Best location for exploring and discovering Malta’s past and seeing its present. The main public transport hub (bus station and terminus, located less than 10 minutes away from the Upper Barrakka Gardens) means you can literally go anywhere in Malta from here. Ferries to Sliema and The Three Cities. Also ferry to Sicily (from Marsa, a nearby town at the end of the Grand Harbour).
• Suitable for: Curious travellers of all ages whose primary aim isn’t lazing around at the beach or hanging out by the hotel pool all day. Budget travellers will have a hard time finding a place to stay here, though.

Why stay in Valletta?

• Centrally located,  full of character
• Good holiday base to  explore Malta’s history and culture , hub of local public transport
• High-quality (also luxury) accommodation available
• Good choice of restaurants and (wine) bars.

Things to consider

• Accommodation limited , so early booking is recommended
• Nightlife limited to restaurants and bars
• No sandy beaches nearby – requires a trip by bus with pretty long travel times (1+ hours, for instance, to go to Golden Bay).

Hotels in Valletta: My recommendations

( View all of my hotel recommendations in Valletta here. )

Barrakka Suites

Osborne Hotel

Buġibba, Qawra and St. Paul’s Bay

Buġibba ,  Qawra  and  St. Paul’s Bay  are three villages located along the northern coastline of Malta that border each other, offering various options for where to stay in Malta. Quick notes:

• One of the most popular tourist resorts
• Busy in summer, quiet during the off-season. St. Paul’s Bay, originally a fishing village, is the least busy in summer.
• Beaches:  Artificial sandy beach at Buġibba, rocky beach at Qawra (referred to as  Ta` Fra Ben ) and several smaller spots in St. Paul’s Bay
• Accommodation:  Mix of budget hotels and a few nice 4-star hotels. No luxury resorts.
• Suitable for:  Couple of all ages, families (family-friendly location) and (except for the high season) seniors.
• Location: With the local bus terminus, public transport can take you to pretty much anywhere. You’ll be well-located between the sandy beaches further up North and culture/history-rich places like Valletta and Mdina. You can also catch boat tours to Comino and Gozo from here.

Why stay in the Buġibba area?

• Good for  family holidays  and budget travellers
• Good options for going out
• Good choice of accommodation
• Good public transport connections
• Easy to get to Gozo and Comino  (and the  Blue Lagoon ).
• Relatively few bathing areas. One (artificial) sandy beach, rocky swimming spots otherwise
• Very  little culture  and not really offering a feel of life in Malta
• Busy during summer months, very quiet in winter.

Hotels in the Buġibba area: My recommendations

View all of my recommendations in this area here:

• Best St. Paul’s Bay hotels
• Best Bugibba hotels
• Best Qawra hotels

db San Antonio Hotel + Spa

Salini Resort

Sliema  is another popular tourist resort located along the northern coast of Malta, close to Valletta. Quick notes:

• Popular tourist location all year round. Convenient location to stay in Malta. Known locally as a good location for shopping. Shark contrast between high-rises and busy coastlines and the beautiful and mostly quiet streets of the quaint village core.
• Good choice of restaurants , also pubs.
• Beaches: Only rocky beach areas. Sandy beaches are quite far away.
• Accommodation: Mostly budget accommodations and what’s advertised as 3/4-star needs refurbishment. Look for B&Bs or apartments here to get good value. Good hostels for budget travellers and backpackers.
• Good location for visiting Malta on a budget. Public transport connections are OK. Ferry to Valletta and boat tours around Valletta’s harbours and to Comino and Gozo are the biggest benefits. It’s a crucial point to consider when deciding where to stay in Malta. Look for accommodation on the Valletta-facing side for easy access.
• Suitable for: Couple of all ages and seniors.  Family-friendly , but there are better options.
• Note: Big pain to get public parking, at any time of year. Often congested with traffic. Don’t stay here if you’re looking to rent a car (unless your accommodation offers private parking).

Why stay in Sliema?

• Good base for sightseeing
• Good choice of hotels
• Charming character in the old village core
• Easy to reach Valletta (ferry)
• Gozo, Comino and Valletta are easy to get to from Ferries area
• Long promenade along the coastline for seaside strolls.
• Touristy and built up.  More modern than typically Maltese
• Bus connections good but  long trips to popular places
• Notorious for traffic congestion and lack of public parking
• No sandy beaches
• Not much culture/history around .

Hotels in Sliema: My recommendations

( View all of my hotel recommendations in Sliema here. )

AX The Palace

Pebbles Boutique Aparthotel

Mr. Todd Hotel

St. Julian’s and Paceville

Once just a quiet fishing village, St. Julian’s is located to the West of Sliema and is a resort with two faces: The old seaside town with quaint features (which, like Sliema, features high-rise buildings too) and the nightlife centre referred to as Paceville. If you’re considering where to stay in Malta, St. Julian’s offers different options to suit your preferences. Quick notes:

• Popular tourist location all year round. It’s a busy, more modern part of Malta (far from the fishing village it was once), which is very popular with tourists and youths looking for nightlife and clubbing .
• Good choice of quality restaurants and some really great little bars even outside of Paceville, especially at Spinola Bay.
• Beaches: Artificial sandy beaches at St. George’s Bay (not super clean, despite best efforts of local government) and  Spinola Bay (small). For decent rocky beach options: Sliema in walking distance. Otherwise: 1-1.5h bus rides to sandy beaches.
• Accommodation: The most varied mix of options from luxury 5-star resorts to affordable 3/4-star hotels, privately rented out apartments, B&Bs and hostels for budget travellers.
• Location: Great for lazy resort holidays, good dining out and nightlife. Not great for beaches and exploring. Public transport connections are good, which means you can get to Sliema Ferries in 10-15 minutes. Hop-on-hop-off for quick day trips is also an option.
• Suitable for: Mostly singles and younger couples. Families: Resorts on the westernmost tip or edge of Paceville. Seniors: Be careful not to book in the Paceville area – noisy!
• Note: Looking to rent a car? Make sure that: 1) Private parking is available with your place of stay and 2) You’re a confident driver – this is a busy part of Malta!

Why stay in St. Julian's

• Great place for  dining and relaxed/fun nights out
• Good choice of hotels  – from value to 5-star luxury resorts
• Paceville is  the place for nightlife in Malta
• Central location .
• Busy and not really child-friendly
• One artificial sandy beach at St. George’s Bay, but  not always clean in summer
• Little culture/history
• Incidents and petty crime are not uncommon in Paceville  (mostly drunk brawls and pickpocketing).

Hotels in St. Julian’s: My recommendations

( View all of my hotel recommendations in St. Julian’s here. )

Hyatt Regency Malta

Hotel Juliani

Hotel Valentina

Mellieħa is one of the northernmost resorts in Malta and the main reason for its popularity is its close location to  Mellieħa Bay , Malta’s largest sandy beach. That makes it a great choice for where to stay in Malta.

Although it is a tourist resort as such, and it can get a little busy in summer, the village itself isn’t as busy as you’d think it would be. That could be caused by the beach-lovers looking to stay as close to Mellieħa Bay as possible, but also because of the limited accommodation available. My notes:

• Highly sought-after location for beach holidays and a great overall option for families looking for that type of trip. The village itself still offers a view of daily village life in Malta , not being spoilt too much by tourism as some of the other resorts on this list.
• Good dining options and a few bars around, but not a place to expect great nightlife . A car will offer more flexibility for that.
• Beaches: Apart from Mellieħa Bay, you can easily get to other beautiful sandy beaches on the west coast like Għajn Tuffieħa (also called Riviera Beach) and Golden Bay .
• Accommodation: Focused on 3-star/4-star hotels and resorts. Only one luxury option and a few budget options. Apartments and villa rentals can be found here as alternative options.
• Location:  Great for beaches but for exploration you will want to  rent a car . That allows you to visit other places of interest around the country and even hop over to Gozo (a separate island, part of the country) easily. If you decide to stay up in the village, keep in mind that you’ll need transport to get down to/up from the beach. Some hotels offer free shuttle buses.
• Suitable for: Younger couples and families with kids. Not suitable for people with limited mobility, since Mellieħa is built on top of a hill and has a few steep streets and many steps to get to different street levels.
• Note: Mellieħa Bay gets busy in summer, particularly on Sundays when the locals head to the beach.

Why stay in Mellieħa

• Great for  beach holidays
• Good choice of hotels  (although in limited numbers)
• Good selection of  restaurants  around
• Easy access to Gozo and Comino
• Good  balance between tourism and village life  in Malta
• Not as touristy as you’d expect , in the village itself primarily.
• Limited nightlife  but several bars/pubs around
• A little remote  – not ideal for exploring the rest of Malta, unless you hire a car
• Early booking required .

Hotels in Mellieħa: My recommendations

( View all of my hotel recommendations in Mellieħa here. )

Lure Hotel & Spa

Maritim Antonine Hotel & Spa

Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands

The Three Cities

The Three Cities are a group of three medieval towns located in the north of Malta and facing Valletta from the opposite side of the Grand Harbour.

Whether you opt for Birgu (also called Vittoriosa) , Senglea (also called Isla) or Bormla (also called Cospicua), each of them is a great place to stay in Malta for those who love historic cities, with all the sights and restaurants within a walking distance. Self-catering apartments and houses, as well as boutique hotels, are the main accommodation options in the Three Cities. Quick notes:

• Historical cities that are the first fortified cities built by the Knights of St John in Malta.
• A picturesque location to stay in Malta , with traditional buildings, houses, baroque churches, winding alleys and great views over the Grand Harbour .
• Beaches: The Three Cities are not a resort town and there are literally no beaches. I would not advise you to swim in the Grand Harbour (not the cleanest water). If you were wondering where to stay in Malta to enjoy beach holidays, it is not there!
• Accommodation: A few luxury hotels – don’t expect to find any budget accommodation there. Self-catering apartments and townhouse rentals are another option.
• Location: Great location for sightseeing, with many historical places, museums, restaurants and all the facilities. Downsides: If you rely on public transport, the Three Cities might not be the best choice as it is not very efficient and you will most probably need to change buses. However, the ferry crossing the Grand Harbour to Valletta is a perk.
• Suitable for: Curious travellers, history buffs and couples of all ages who can afford some luxury. Not suitable for travellers looking for budget accommodations.
• Note: You might want to rent a car to avoid struggling with public transport, but make sure your accommodation offers private parking, as parking options within the Three Cities are very limited.

Why stay in the Three Cities?

• A unique place full of history and character
• Good restaurants , especially in Birgu
• Some luxury accommodation options to indulge yourself.
• Accommodation is limited , so try to book in advance!
• No beaches nor decent spots to swim. To get to the most beautiful beaches (located in the north of the island, like Riviera Beach), you need to take a long bus trip (at least 1h40 min).
• Not the best place to stay in Malta if you are solely relying on public transport .
• Limited nightlife , although there are some good restaurants and bars.

Hotels in The Three Cities: My recommendations

Cugó gran macina malta.

BOCO Boutique Hotel

IBB Hotel Palazzo Bettina

Mdina and Rabat

Mdina and Rabat are a must-visit to anyone who’s looking to get to know the main island, but it’s not always an obvious place to actually stay in Malta. Mdina, the Silent City, has a few luxury and boutique hotels. Accommodation is limited otherwise, but with Airbnb and Vrbo, you can find stunning places, and it’s pretty quiet (particularly Rabat and its rural outskirts). Notes to consider:

• Historical and picturesque places to stay in Malta . Perfect for travellers looking for an authentic experience. Mdina sits beautifully on a hill overlooking Malta.
• Less popular and quieter than resorts like Sliema, St. Julian’s or Buġibba .
• Beaches: Mdina and Rabat are not seaside destinations, so the only opportunity to swim or sunbathe there will be at your hotel’s swimming pool. Beaches are not easily accessible by bus (trips of more than one hour and no direct buses, except to Buġibba).
• Accommodation: A few boutique and luxury hotels. Some nice Airbnb and Vrbo options.
• Location: Great location if sightseeing is your priority. Beautiful towns both by day and by night. If you stay in Mdina, you will understand why this fortified town is called the “Silent City”. There are a few restaurants. The area is well connected by public transport thanks to its main bus station (expect long travelling times to other places of interest in Malta though).
• Suitable for: History buffs and couples looking for a romantic vacation. Not suitable for budget travellers or beach lovers.

Why stay in Mdina or Rabat?

• Very picturesque towns
• Quieter than the most popular places to stay in Malta (even though a popular tourist destination)
• Luxury and/or charming accommodation .
• Limited accommodation options
• Definitely not a beach destination
• Quiet at night and not the best place to stay in Malta if you are looking for a lively place with a vibrant nightlife .

Hotels in Mdina and Rabat: My recommendations

The xara palace.

Palazzo Bifora

116 Townhouse

Gozo is the second-largest of Malta’s three islands (the third being Comino), and I like to describe it as “what Malta used to be like” – Quieter and more rural. When considering where to stay in Malta, Gozo offers a peaceful and authentic experience.

• A great option if you’re looking for a quiet holiday  and touring the main island of Malta isn’t a must.
• No particular standout location on the island to stay.  Perhaps Victoria is a little busier than other parts, but then it’s the best location if you depend on public transport.
• Beaches:  Good choice and largely untouched by man. More info here:  The best beaches in Gozo .
• Accommodation: Varied choices from luxury 5-stary to affordable hotels and a few budget options. Self-catering apartments and villa (farmhouse) rentals are popular options that can provide better value for money.
• Location: Great location for a quiet holiday, with plenty to see and do, lovely beaches that don’t get nearly as busy and a good respite away from busy everyday life. Downsides: Public transport isn’t very reliable/efficient, and for accommodation, it’s hard to get value.
• Suitable for: Couples of all ages and families (but probably not with teenagers – very, very limited nightlife).
• Note:  Even if you might not be inclined to  hire a car , I highly recommend you do so. Not only because public transport isn’t great but also because driving there is pretty easygoing, and it just offers so much more flexibility.

Why stay in Gozo?

• Quieter location  than anywhere in Malta, even though summers are always busier.
• Good option to stay for returning travellers  who want to see a different side of Malta.
• Beaches: Raw nature at its best, but only a handful of sandy beaches and more pebbly/rocky beaches. Great for snorkelling and diving!
• If you want to explore, local transport isn’t super efficient or reliable.  Having said that, bikes and scooters are a good solution, with relatively short distances
• Gozo doesn’t have much to offer in terms of nightlife:  Only a few nightclubs and mostly small bars and restaurants.

Hotels in Gozo: My recommendations

( View all of my recommended Gozo hotels here )

The Duke Boutique Hotel

Calypso Hotel

Quaint Boutique Hotel Xewkija

Other (quieter) places to stay in Malta

Looking to stay away from the busier tourist resorts? These are a few options to consider:

• Marsaxlokk is one of the few remaining fishing villages in Malta and – except for Sundays when it’s a popular location for the market and lunch – it’s quiet and quaint, making it an interesting option for where to stay in Malta. Without a car, it might not be ideal though, especially if you’d like to go sightseeing. Not many hotels around but these are great places on Vrbo to have a look at, all well-located close to the seafront: Apartment 1 | Apartment 2 | Apartment 3 .
• Mġarr is a lovely little village on the western side of Malta, close to some of the most beautiful sandy beaches the country has to offer ( Għajn Tuffieħa  and  Golden Bay ). It’s a great location to experience village life in Malta and have a quiet base to explore its surrounding nature from (or to explore Malta by car). The locals are very friendly and helpful and you can get all the basics easily here. You’ll need a short let/rental option here, as there are no hotels in town.
• Marsaskala is a quiet seaside village on the southeast coast of Malta. Although Marsaskala is more remote than the resorts listed further up, it offers a quieter alternative for a relaxing holiday in Malta, with a few restaurants, bars and swimming spots such as St. Thomas Bay. Accommodation options are not much there, though I can recommend: the Akwador Guest House and Portside Lodge . You can also find some nice apartments on Vrbo.com, like this apartment .
• Naxxar , a town in central Malta which has kept its village-like atmosphere, is probably an underrated place to stay in Malta. Yet, this off-the-beaten-path location has a few nice hotels and accommodations, such as Chapel 5 Boutique Suites , an 18th-century property whose spacious rooms are adorned with a travel-inspired decoration, or Villa Selmunett , a well-kept and charming property located on the edge of Naxxar.

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

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

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

Where are Malta’s most popular resorts?

You can find the location of Malta’s best resorts to stay in Malta listed above on this map. Keep in mind that distances are relatively short so travel time is rarely a deciding factor on the best place to stay.

FAQs: Best places in Malta for different types of travellers

In this section, I provide quick suggestions for specific types of travellers – to make your search a little easier when it comes to where to stay in Malta.

What are the best places in Malta for couples?

• Good selection of hotels and other accommodation
• Decent choice of restaurants and bars/pubs
• Bathing options around: Artificial sandy beach and rocky bathing areas.
• Well-connected with public transport, boat tours and hop on/hop off.
• Downsides: Touristy and busy in summer, very limited public parking
• Mostly modern, small traditional village core
• A good mix of accommodation options, also the best luxury resorts are here.
• Few places to swim in the sea and far from sandy beaches such as Golden Bay.
• Public transport connections are good but there are better places to stay as a base for exploring
• Downsides: Construction projects are ongoing and the city gets busy easily, also outside of the high season.
• Modern side with high-rises but still has a quaint village core with colourful houses.
• Good for budget travellers looking for hostels and apartments. Hard to get value from 3/4-star hotels.
• Rocky beaches and lidos with pools are good for swimming
• Good for exploring: Ferry to Valletta and boat trips to Comino/Gozo.
• Downsides: Sliema is one of the busiest places in Malta with heavy traffic congestion and notoriously difficult to find a parking spot in.
• If you’re looking to explore Malta and swimming/beaches are less important, consider staying at Malta’s capital city, Valletta . Full of culture and history, great restaurants and wine bars, good quality accommodation and well connected with other parts of Malta through public transport.
• Close to the best sandy beaches in Malta
• Still has the character of a traditional Maltese village.
• Relatively peaceful, although the beach at Mellieħa Bay gets very busy in summer.
• A few nice restaurants and bars around, but not much nightlife.
• Downsides: Can get a little too quiet for some.

What do you recommend for Senior couples?

• Although it’s Malta’s capital city, Valletta is not as busy as you’d expect and apart from good quality accommodation and great restaurants, there’s plenty to explore in terms of culture and history. All bus routes start and terminate in Valletta, meaning it’s an easy place to get around.
• Mellieħa is a charming, quiet village in the north of Malta, with good options for hotels and restaurants and several smaller (sandy) beaches where it’s quieter to swim if Mellieħa Bay (largest beach) is too busy for your liking. I recommend hiring a car if you’re considering staying here.
• Mdina (an old bastion city full of history) and Marsaxlokk (a quiet fishing village on the East coast of Malta) are alternatives to consider as well, although you’ll definitely need to hire a car if you decide to stay there.
• Gozo (a smaller island) is also an option to consider. Quiet, largely rural, yet offering several places to explore, it’s a charming place to stay. Although public transport is available, it’s recommended to hire a car here as well (and driving is relatively easy in Gozo).

What are the best places in Malta for families with kids?

• Without a doubt, Buġibba and Qawra are your best bet. There’s a good choice of hotels around with pool facilities, a good selection of family-friendly restaurants and it’s a safe area. Bathing areas (artificial sandy beach of Buġibba and Ta`Fra Ben at Qawra) are child-friendly and you can board hop on hop off buses and boat excursions in the area. There is also a large playground, the Malta National Aquarium, a cinema and other places of entertainment around.
• If you’re looking for something a little quieter, there are a few all-inclusive resorts close to the beach at Mellieħa you could also consider. Renting a car is recommended here, though.

A lot more on that topic here: Family holidays in Malta with kids .

What's the best place to stay for nightlife?

If you’re looking for clubbing, pub crawls and nightlife, Paceville (St. Julian’s) is the place to be. If you feel adventurous or you’ve got your own transport, there are open-air clubs located in the countryside (surroundings of Mdina and Rabat) that open during the summer months and are a must to party at.

One downside: Drunken brawls are not uncommon here, but as long as you stay out of trouble, you’ll be fine.

What's the best place for a beach holiday in Malta?

If hanging out on the beach and sunbathing are your top priorities, these are the options to consider:

• Staying at Mellieha means you’ve got Malta’s largest beach at your doorstep and smaller (sandy) beaches further up North. It’ll also be easy to cross over to Gozo to check out beaches like the beautiful Ramla l-Hamra beach .
• Want to combine a beach holiday with staying in a proper Maltese village? There are apartments rented out privately in Mġarr and Manikata that allow you to be close to some of the best beaches around and also give you a taste of Maltese village life. You’ll definitely want to rent a car, however.
• Super lazy and not on a budget? The Radisson Golden Sands hotel sits right on the edge of one of Malta’s best beaches: Golden Bay.

Where should I stay in Malta for backpacking?

If you’re looking to backpack through Malta, these are a few suggestions to consider:

• You can find fairly good and cheap hostels in Sliema , from where it’s easy to catch a quick ferry to Valletta (and another quick ferry to the Three Cities) or boat trips to Gozo and Comino.
• Look for short let/rental options in Mġarr , Manikata or Rabat are a great base to explore some of Malta’s natural beauty.
• Gozo is also great for hikes and exploring on foot. You really have two main options: Victoria in the centre (busy but the main hub for the local bus network) or pretty much anywhere else – Gozo is mostly made up of small villages surrounded by nature.

Where to stay in Malta for diving?

A bunch of the better diving schools in Malta are located in  Sliema  and organise reasonably priced diving excursions to the best dive sites around the Maltese islands. (More info here on that topic:  Diving in Malta .)

Gozo  is also a great option with a few family-run diving schools that specialise in the best dive sites there.

Where to stay in Malta in December?

December is one of the colder months of the year in Malta, which means some of the more popular places to stay in summer will be pretty quiet, being mostly about beaches.

If you’re interested in sightseeing, I always suggest Valletta (or the nearby town Floriana) as a great base during the winter months. Also because the choice of restaurants is great. This would also be the best area to stay if you’re spending Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Malta .

For nightlife, it’s very much St. Julian’s (as it is in summer) and its Paceville district, although it is a more urban (and busy) part of Malta.

Nature walks or hikes in winter can be a great way to spend your holiday as well, in which case I’d suggest Mġarr , Manikata , Rabat , or sister-island Gozo.

Decided on where to stay in Malta? Next steps!

Great! Here are a few next steps with more tips and recommendations on how to:

• Decide on when best to go and other tips for your  Malta holiday
• Book your  flights to Malta (and get the cheapest deals)
• Choose from the  best hotels in Malta  and other  options for accommodation
• Explore options to  hire a car and get  tips on driving in Malta

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

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

Get the best travel tips from Malta Uncovered delivered to you in bite-sized chunks by email. (Unsubscribe at any time!)

Was this article helpful? Share it with your friends!

My wife and I are thinking of spending 6-7 weeks in Malta during February/March, 2018. We enjoy absorbing different cultures and wonder if Malta in the winter would be an attractive option for us? We are both active seniors whose beach holiday days have passed. We are leaning towards Valletta but wherever location we decide, we would like to be close to shopping and sightseeing and are willing to rent a car for our holiday.

Any advice you could give us would be appreciated.

Thanks, Nick

Hi Nick, I think that makes perfect sense and if you decide to push that trip to March, possibly April you’ll get the best of the weather, plus it’ll still be relatively quiet and peaceful. Valletta is a great option as a home base and really and truly with it being the central terminal for the local buses you wouldn’t necessarily need to rent a car. In fact, being a busier part of Malta (on the roads as well) perhaps that’ll be the better option for you.

If, however, you decide to stay in or around some of the smaller villages, particularly those towards the West of Malta (or perhaps even Gozo), a car will make it easier and more efficient to get around.

I hope that helps!

Hi Edward, I have come across your amazing site and feel so lucky to have done so. Wow! Well done it’s a credit to you. I am just in the process of planning a trip for next April/May that will be including just on 1 week in Malta at the end, before we fly home to Australia. I don’t have a question at the moment but am sure to have a few in the future. i just wanted to praise you on your brilliant site.

Wow, thank you for that Lyn, appreciate you leaving a quick note and do let me know if there’s anything I can help with!

I would like to book accomodation in Marsaxlokk in September. What would you recommend

Hi Brian, I’d recommend Port View Guesthouse – Lovely location, modern and gets good reviews.

I will be travelling with a group of friends (max 10) to Malta in July. I think our main needs are to sunbathe & go out at night, and we are looking to stay in a villa. We will want to do culture day trips as well but dont mind travelling to do these! where do you suggest?

Hi Fionnuala, it sounds like St. Julian’s might be the best fit for you, since you’ll be near Paceville, which is the nightlife centre of Malta .

There aren’t an awful lot of villas that I’m aware of in the area that would still be available on pretty short notice, however. I would try Airbnb.com and search for places in St. Julian’s (on the side of Paceville) or Swieqi.

Hi Edward, my husband and I are visiting early June we are staying with family in the south for a few days then want to stay elsewhere for a few nights. We are in our forties but young at heart. We would love to experience authentic Maltese food with a friendly atmosphere day and night. We are interested in historical War Museums. We would like to do a harbour tour and possibly Gozo. Another option is we hire a car and venture Malta, if so is it easy to find car parks at the historical sites? Thank you

Hi LeeAnne, it really depends what historical sites you have in mind. Some offer ample parking, in other places it’s quite a challenge. Happy to guide you further with more info on what places you’re planning to visit.

Hello Edward Wonder if you can help with pointing us to the area which would suit us better. My wife has a bad spine and arthritis, she can walk a bit, but we often get out the wheelchair. This also means really hilly towns are no good for us. We can hire a car or use the buses, but where we stay needs to be flat, ideally a harbour we can stroll along in the evening. Can you suggest what area(s) would be a good idea to look at for basing ourselves ? Many Thanks Matt

Hi Matt, I would consider Sliema or St. Julian’s (avoid the Paceville area towards the West, however) or the Buġibba area.

Is Gżira a good base to stay and explore the rest of Malta?

Hi David, if you’re not afraid of a little walk (to get to Sliema Ferries) it’s not a bad base for exploration. Bus connections to routes coming out of valletta (main hub) are pretty easy to get. If you’re renting a car, however, make sure your accommodation includes private parking as it’ll be a challenge to find a parking spot in the area, pretty much all year round.

Hi Edward, My sister and I are hoping to visit Malta during the Isle of MTV concert. We were wondering where would make the most sense to stay, since we would like to explore the rest of the island too and be away from the crowds wherever we stay. We are hoping to self cater. Thanks! Layla

Hi Layla, I’d have a look at an Airbnb in or just outside Valletta. It’s the capital but most of the crowds around the event will be stuck in traffic or on buses trying to get in/out of the area. Plus, the main bus terminus is located just outside of the capital city.

I’m Charlie I am 54 and planning to go to Malta in May to see family, I will be staying in Saint Paul’s Bay could you please recommend some places to visit while I’m there? I will be in Malta for 21 nights. Cheers Charlie.

Hi Charlie, here’s a good start: 59 Points of Interest, Places to Visit and Attractions in Malta and What to do in Malta and Gozo: 101+ Ideas .

Hi, I’m travelling with my friend on the 27th July this year and we will be staying two full days. We will be going to the Grotto one day and perhaps a tour around the island the 2nd day with a visit to Valetta. We are looking for a lovely spot to stay which has access to restaurants, nice strolls at night and pretty views but where we can also get the bus to places as well. We will be in Santorini for 5 nights, so we will be partied out – so that’s not a priority. My friend said to stay in Sliema, which looks nice. We are looking at the Carlton Hotel in Sliema or the Victoria Hotel – do you know which one would be better for location, views and public transport?

Thank you in advance!

Hi Faye, If budget isn’t an issue I’d actually stay in Valletta. Trouble there is that it’s hard to find low-cost accommodation, particularly at that time of year. If you’re lucky perhaps you can find a good listing on Airbnb, even if it’s just outside Valletta (distances are short!). Valletta is the main hub for public transport, plus there’s a lot to see there.

Sliema is an option but ideally, since you want to visit Valletta, I’d look for something on the side of Sliema Ferries (where you can take a quick ferry right to the North side of Valletta). Public transport isn’t great if you want to go to places like the Blue Grotto to be fair, but accommodation might be a little cheaper. The Victoria Hotel is within a 10-minute walk so that one’s alright, plus it’s a nice hotel. If you’re on a budget have a look at the Pebbles Boutique Hotel and the Waterfront Hotel is also worth considering.

I’m going to Malta & Gozo with my husband in October. He hopes to get some good dives in? We are staying near St Pauls Bay for 3 nights, with 3 nights planned for Gozo & 3 nights elsewhere in Malta, to also dive but also see another side of the country. We enjoy eating out & seeing the country & will hire a car for part of the trip. Any recommendations of places to stay? Can we take the hire car over to Gozo?

Hi there! October should still be good for diving, it’ll just be less busy, so good timing! Seeing as St. Paul’s Bay is a little busier/touristy and Gozo has a character of its own (in a good way!) I’d consider staying at a smaller village like Rabat, Mgarr (in the West) or Marsaxlokk (in the East of Malta). Happy to recommend a place in Mgarr with a host who’s very knowledgeable of local dive sites btw. Yes, you can take a hire car over to Gozo without problems (in fact I definitely suggest you do so, with public transport not being super efficient there).

Hi I love the information you have on this site! I am looking at visiting Malta but am in a wheelchair, where would be the best area to stay please? Needs to be accessible, enjoy markets, shops, stroll along prom, bars and restaurants.

Hi Charissa, thanks, glad you lie the site! That’s not the easiest question I’ve been asked – to give you a safe answer, probably Valletta is your best bet. Although you can find seaside promenades around the St. Julian’s/Sliema and Buġibba areas, it can get pretty busy there around the high season and, unfortunately, local government isn’t always proactive in ensuring pavements are up to scratch and accommodating for everyone. If you decide to go for Valletta it’s perfectly possible to get good transport for sightseeing, though.

Hi Edward! This is by far the most helpful guide I could get for my planning to go to Malta. I’m planning to go there with 3 friends probably this upcoming 22/3-26/3. We plan to see the beaches (but maybe not swim) and have a relaxing holiday, with much sight-seeing in mind. Maybe we would rent a car for that purpose. One friend would love to dive, and we’re looking forward to visit Gozo & St Peter’s Pool as well. We don’t need pubs & bars kind of nightlife, but would prefer somewhere we can easily shop for grocery as we’d prefer to cook at the accommodation. Can you advise us where to stay? Also, would the weather be nice for swimming in diving? Thank you so much for your help 🙂

Hi Farhana, glad the site’s of help! 🙂 Late March will be a little early for swimming usually, though it could be that you’re in luck and it’ll be doable. For diving, unless you’re unlucky to find bad weather, it should be fine with the right kind of gear. Since you’re not too fussy about pubs/bars and that sort of thing I’d consider looking at either Mellieha and outskirts, or places like Rabat and even Mgarr through an Airbnb rental. Happy to suggest a few addresses to check! 🙂

Hello! I’m planning on going to Malta in May for my birthday. Do you know if the water is warm at that time? I would love to have bothad, some nightlife or just some bars/pubs around and beautiful sandy beaches and to do some boat trip or something. We are a couple of 25 years old. Do you have any idea? Love your website. Many thanks

Hi Cláudia, May is right around the time when the weather starts warming up and early bathers start swimming and going to the beach. The water will likely be pretty chilly still though, so you’ll have to suck it up for the first couple of minutes and enjoy the fact that the water will be super clean and it’ll be quiet on the beaches still. 😉 If beach is priority, definitely have a look around in Mellieha or even Gozo (which is quieter than Malta but best to rent a car there!), if nightlife/bars/pubs are priority better go for St. Julian’s/Sliema. You can do boat trips from there but to get to sandy beaches it could take 1-1.5h by bus.

This website is very useful, thanks a lot! My girlfriend and I are going to Malta around mid-April for 8 days, we’re 27 and 30 years old, we love beaches, cycling and exploring nature and historical places. We don’t care too much about nightlife (we live in London!) although as Italians we love good food. We would also like to visit Gozo and Comino. What would you suggest for us? Also, Malta looks very small, do you think we can cycle around and vsit the island by bike? Many thanks again! Regards, Francesco

Hi Francesco, thank you – glad you like my site! 🙂 It sounds like Mellieha or even Rabat/Mgarr might be a good area to stay (in which case an Airbnb stay could be a good option for you as hotels are limited in the area). It’s a quieter part of the country and both Comino and Gozo are within reach. You _CAN_ get around by bike though in Malta I would advise you to be careful and stick to the roads further up North since unfortunately the roads in Malta were never designed with cyclists in mind and the country isn’t known for its courteous drivers, to say the least.

In fact, I would recommend spending a few days in Malta (to do some sightseeing at Valletta, Mdina and perhaps a few other places) and spend a few more days in Gozo. That’s a MUCH better place to go around on a bike and explore nature and some of the sights there.

Hi Edward, So pleased I stumbled on your site, so much helpful advise. We are a couple of Aussies travelling to Malta in June and after reading your info I am tossing up with whether Valletta or Sliema area would suit us best. We usually prefer to stay in self contained accommodation and was wondering if you can recommend any reliable sites to book through ? We will have four days to explore. Thanks

Hi Coleen, I would definitely suggest staying in Valletta if exploration is important to you. Sliema isn’t the best place for that unfortunately.

What is the south of Malta like in the height of summer such as Birzebbuga

Hi Andy, it’ll be less busy than in the North/centre of Malta at that time of year, though with schools closed it’ll be pretty busy with locals. As a location, although I like Birzebbuga as a town, there may be better places to stay. I’d consider Marsaxlokk as well, which will definitely be quieter (assuming that’s what you’re after).

Hello Edward, Wonderful website! Very helpful. My husband and I are going to Malta in January for two weeks. We are from a very cold part of Canada and I will be in Germany for work and we thought we would try and experience some warmer weather while we are in Europe. +15C in Malta is far better than -30C in Canada! We were attracted to Malta because of the warmer weather and the beautiful and diverse culture and nature. We are hoping to experience a little taste of everything Malta has to offer and are open to suggestions on where to stay. We aren’t into very touristy areas but would like a “pinch” of nightlife in the evening – for example go out for a nice dinner and a place for drinks and people watching. 🙂 I’m not opposed to splitting up our accommodation to broaden our experience. Based on my research I was thinking Valletta, Gozo and Mellieha and staying in Air B&Bs. What do you think? Thanks in advance for your help. Best Regards – Erin

Hi Erin, It’ll definitely be warmer than -30 C, and with a bit of luck you’ll get some good sunshine too! 🙂 I think you’re on the right track with those places – Valletta is the first place that came to mind, particularly for culture. Although it’s the capital it’s not as touristy as you’d expect. Mellieha and Gozo are great to explore for nature more than culture. Enjoy your trip!

This is a wonderful site, thank you!

My husband and I are planning to go to Malta from April 21-29/2017. We are big foodies and prefer to be close to great restaurants and wine bars. We also want to be close to sandy beaches. We hate being in overly touristy areas, and want to find the perfect balance between restaurants, beaches, experiencing the local charm of the island without the tourist traps. We won’t have a car unfortunately so will need to stay in an area with easy transportation access. What area do you best recommend? Thanks

Hi Fazlin, April is a great time of year to visit although it’ll probably be a little early in the season to enjoy days at the beach. Usually that becomes much more doable towards the end of May. In any case, I don’t have a perfect solution for you. The St. Julians and Sliema area offer a good number of nice restaurants to try, but then it’s very touristy and busy. Valletta is probably a slightly better option for foodies (and for culture seekers), but then to get to the beach with public transport (buses) can take 1-1.5h and it can be tricky to find affordable accommodation. The Mellieha area is best for staying close to the beaches but there aren’t an awful lot of restaurants around (albeit there are some really great options to try) and not renting a car while staying there isn’t super practical.

Hi, Heading to malta for the first time and was hoping for a bit of a clue as to where is best suited for us. We love Crete, Loutro, Paleochora, also places like Milos and Serifos are among our favourites. We love the small villages that have great swimming nearby, either sand or rocky. Some nice local restaurants would be great but full-on nightlife is not necessary. Quaint and quiet is fine. What would you suggest for us? We are mid-50s, active and will be in Malta end May for 8 days. Thanks!

Based off the info you’ve provided as to your preferences, it sounds like Mellieha and surrounding area could be a good fit. You’ll find some of the largest and best beautiful (sandy) beaches within easy reach and Mellieha offers a few good restaurants as well. Considering accommodation options are a little limited I’d highly recommend booking that as soon as possible, however!

Hi Edward, some fantastic info on your site!

Myself and my boyfriend are getting married in Malta in September next year and went over last April to check out venues etc. It’s such a beautiful country but we couldn’t get over the amount of building work in St. Julian’s. I’ve never seen so much in such a small place! It really put us off staying there. We were only in Malta for 3 days so didn’t get to see much. Are the other resorts like that as well? We would hate to recommend somewhere to our guests that has a building site outside the window. Beaches are not a huge priority but would love somewhere with some Maltese charm and not too quiet as it will be mid September.

Any advise you can give would be great! Thank you,

Hi Sinead, first off – Big congrats! 🙂

I get what you’re saying and agree. Both St. Julians and Sliema are unpredictable when it comes to construction at the moment. I’ve emailed you to get a better understanding of what you’re looking for meanwhile.

Hi Edward we are thinking of going to Malta late September for 7 to 10 days and don’t really know where to base ourselves. Your advice is great for others so I hope you can advise us! We are in our mid 50’s, interested in culture, walking along the coast and in the countryside. We like eating out and going to bars but not interested in clubbing, beach life etc. We don’t intend hiring a car so it would be good to be able to start our walks from either a city/town without having to take a bus if possible, but it’s ok if we need to. We are also interested in a 2 centre stay between Malta and Gozo , but how do we get to the ferry departure points for Gozo, for example if we were in Valetta, is it a taxi ride away? Where would we locate ourselves in Gozo? We are probably looking at staying in 4 star hotels, but staying in an interesting, historical bed and breakfast setting would also do. Any advice welcome! Thank you, Cathy and Gordon

Hi Cathy and Gordon,

This is a tricky one to answer, since you’ve listed quite a few requirements and no location meets all of them. 🙂 The options that come to mind (in order of preference and considering you’re not hiring a car) are: 1) Valletta, since there’s a lot to explore inside the city and along both harbours and you can cross over to Sliema with a ferry quite easily, plus most bus routes start/terminate at the Valletta terminus. The downside is that there isn’t much countryside to explore as you’ll be located at the busier part of Malta. 2) St. Julians/Sliema is a better location if you’d like to stay near the coast, with a long promenade and a variety of restaurants in the area. From Sliema you can take the ferry to Valletta 3) Mellieha is a good location if countryside exploration is more important, plus you’d be staying in a village that’s less touristy

Getting to Gozo is pretty easy with several bus routes taking you up to Cirkewwa (have a look at the journey planner of Transport Malta for routes from whatever place you’ll be staying at in Malta). I usually suggest hiring a car in Gozo to really explore the island and considering it’s much quieter than Malta I would reconsider, especially since local public transport (buses) isn’t very reliable. Stay at Marsalforn to be close to the coast and salt pans, etc, stay at or near Nadur, Xaghra or Qala for some of the better countryside walks, or stay at Victoria (the local capital a the centre of the island) if you prefer being close to restaurants, shops, etc.

Hi there…. Great website. my husband and I have never been to Malta. we do a lot of walking ( just back from Madeira ). we will not be hiring a car so bus connections are vital. is Malta a good place for a walking holiday ? where would you recommend we stay. we do not do night life and adore peace and quiet, Beaches are not important. thankyou Dee

Hi Dee, thanks, glad you like the site! 🙂

Is Malta a good place for a walking holiday? Generally, yes, and the area around Mellieha and Rabat would be my recommendation. Having said that, I’d also definitely consider staying at Gozo, which in general is much quieter (and less developed) than Malta. Bus connections to other parts of Malta are good, although transit times can be a little longer (say 1-1.5h from Mellieha to Valletta). In Gozo public transport isn’t the most reliable but if you’re not in a hurry or too fussy about punctuality it’ll do the job.

Hi Edward, Fantastic website! My girlfriends and I are a planning a trip to Malta at the end of March 2017. We are a youthful group in our mid-40’s to early 50’s. We would like to stay in a place that has access to some swimming (will it be warm enough at the end of March?) and it doesn’t have to be a sandy beach as I see that there are rocky bathing areas available. We would like to be in a location that has good dining and may have some nightlife (not a priority). Since we’ll likely be staying in the same hotel for the entire a week – a location where we can walk around as well as a nice hotel to hang out at (eg. poolside etc) would be ideal. We will likely not rent a car but could either take buses or hire a guide/take a tour to check out other places on the Island eg. Gozo, Blue Lagoon.

In March it’s unlikely to be warm enough to swim in the sea I’m afraid. Usually, the earliest is May and the latest time of year October – not just because of the sea temperature but also from a safety point of view with undercurrents, etc.

Based on what you’ve told me you’re probably best of staying in St. Julians or Sliema. Good choice of restaurants, pubs and other nightlife, long seaside promenade and (at Sliema Ferries) easy access to Valletta by ferry and a choice of boat tours to Comino, Gozo, etc.

Great website Edward! Just wondering if you know anything about camping. We are a party three; myself, my husband and our 8 year old daughter. We are interested in camping in beautiful spots near beaches that would be good for snorkelling. I have researched that I might need to apply for some kind of liscence to camp. Just wondering if you have any tips of advice in this area. Thanks in advance!

Unfortunately I don’t have much advice to offer you on that myself, though if you use Facebook I’m sure you’ll be able to get expert advice from locals in this public group .

I find this webpage very very helpful. It gave me a whole map and great idea of Malta 🙂

Happy to hear that Jill, thanks for leaving a comment! 🙂

Fantastic website Edward! Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. Myself and the partner are heading to Malta for 14 days in July. We are splitting it half n’half with a stay on Gozo. Intend on hiring a car on landing and exploring both islands. We’d love an area quiet and relaxing in the evenings, preferably with nice views…but can’t decide. Thanks for any help you can give! X

Hi Jacqui – thank you, happy to hear you like the site! The first place that comes to mind in Malta is Mellieha. In Gozo it’s a bit tougher to recommend a place because the whole island is pretty quiet and peaceful. The places that come to mind are Xlendi (overlooking a bay) and Marsalforn (both on the coast) or if you prefer something more inland Qala and Għasri.

Hi Edward, this is a terrific site. I have read most of the information, and I am still unsure of where to go. My husband and myself have been to Malta twice now, and stayed at Quara. On the last trip we took my parents, and they had a fabulous time, and would like to go again. We are thinking more in November/December this time, a little cooler. My parents are elderly and very sprightly. There is no need to be near a beach, but would like to see more of the history of Malta. We like to eat out, and explore. Where do you advise us to stay. I await your reply, and Thank-you very much. x

Hi Susan, Thank you, glad you like the site. It sounds like you might want to stay in the capital of Valletta. It’s not nearly as busy as you’d expect from a capital city, you can get anywhere from there by bus, there’s a lot to discover within the city itself and plenty of choice for dinner.

We are a retired couple, planning to visit Malta in November. We would like to explore the Islands during the day, and visit nice bars and restaurants in the evening. we have seen a nice apartment in Birzebbuga, but don’t if there is much there. Could you advise. Many thanks John

Hi John, Birżebbuġa is a tricky one – some people love it, others hate it. Personally, although I have great memories there, I don’t think it’s the nicest place to stay nowadays, particularly at that time of year. I’d much rather recommend Valletta or Sliema to you.

Hi there, I’m going to Malta next month, and even though we’ve booked a place in Sliema, we can cancel without a fee, and I’m really inclined to do that after reading this post! According to your post Mellieha is the place to be. My question is: is that difficult to go around by bus from there? We don’t have a driving license, so renting a car isn’t a option! But at the same time, all the nice beaches are close by, so I was wondering if taxis are very expensive for one beach or another that is not so accessible. We are staying 4 nights in Malta and 3 in Gozo. I would like to go to Valleta, and to some beaches around the island, but 90% of the beaches are on the north. Thanks!

Hi Liliana, If beaches are your #1 priority it’s either Mellieha (quieter) or Bugibba/Qawra/St. Paul’sBay (more touristy) you want to stay at. There are good connections to/from Mellieha but you’ll spend more time on buses to go around simply because it’s more remote. If, again, beaches are most important, you’re good there. If, however, you want to explore other parts of Malta, Mellieha will be quite remote, whereas you’ll get shorter trips from the Bugibba area – you’re kind of in between the beaches to the North and places like Valletta and Mdina to the South/East. In June it won’t yet be swarming completely with tourists in Bugibba, though you can opt to stay on the side of St. Paul’s Bay and you’ll avoid the very busy parts of the area. Taxis can be pretty pricey – think 25 euro for a one way trip from Mellieha to Valletta. Hope you enjoy your trip! 🙂

Thanks, Edward! Beaches are my number 1 priority, for sure! I don’t plan to spend more than 1 day and a half sightseeing.I ended up cancelling the hotel in SIiema and booking another one in Mellieha. I saw there are couple of sightseeing buses in Malta that go to most historical places, and I could go to Bugibba to get it from that, and this would make the trip considerably shorter and quicker! As most beaches I plan to visit are not so far from Mellieha, I think it should be ok. I can use buses and take taxis to shorter trips. I’ll be staying just next to the beach in Xlendi for 3 nights as well, so it will be pretty much a beach holiday. By the way thank you very much for your tips, your website is a bible for whoever is planning to visit Malta!

Sounds like you’re all set Liliana – Enjoy your stay and thank you for the compliment! 🙂

What a wonderful website. Thank you. My wife and I are looking to come to Malta July 2-8. We like a hotel room where we can see the sea. Good restaurants, good strolling and shopping, seeing the cultural highlights. We will not be renting a car, but want to explore as much of Malta as we can on day-trips. Can you offer a recommendation on which town to stay in? We are not on a tight budget.

Hi Joe, thank you – I’m happy you like the site! For sea view hotels, good restaurants and walks you’ll be happy to stay at St. Julians and Sliema (where you’ll find some of the better shops in Malta) I reckon. You’ll also be able to take day trips from the South side of Sliema to places like Gozo and Comino and you can take a ferry across Grand Harbour to get to Valletta. High-end hotel choice is limited at that time of year in Sliema and you’ll find there’s more choice in St. Julians. The downside there is that you’ll need a 10-15 minute bus ride to get to “The Ferries” in Sliema to take day tours and shop (various routes pass from this stretch). Restaurant choice is very good in St. Julians, however (although you’ll find good options just the same in Sliema).

A few hotel options for Sliema: Preluna Hotel & Spa 115 The Strand Hotel

A few options for hotels in St. Julian’s: Corinthia Hotel St. George’s Bay The Westin Dragonara Resort Marriott Hotel & Spa (closer to Sliema) Hilton Malta (closer to Sliema)

I would HIGHLY recommend booking as soon as possible as these hotels are in high demand at that time of year and will be fully booked soon.

I hope that helps and I hope you enjoy your stay!

Hi, We are planning a holiday to Malta between 30 May – 6th June .. and have kids aged 9, 4 and a 9 month old. From reading your very helpful article I have come to the conclusion that perhaps Valleta or Mellieha might suit us best as we aren’t going to be involved in the night life that most of the other places offer. We don’t want to be anywhere too crowded and don’t mind hiring a car get around to explore the rest of Malta. We have also looked at Gozo and are not entirely sure how rural this is and how easy it would be to get to Malta from here. We don’t want to be totally isolated either and /but the kids would love the beaches. I need your advise on what would be the best place to rent Villas / holiday homes as this would suit us best with a baby.

Hi Amber, since you’ll be travelling with the family and the kids will enjoy the beaches, I wouldn’t recommend staying in Valletta, especially not when hiring a car. It’s an amazing place to visit on a day trip but not the best place to stay with a family and with the idea of spending time on the beach, simply because of the commute and the traffic congestion in the area. With Mellieha as a home base and renting a car, you can easily reach different beaches and places like Mdina (a must-visit) are easy to reach by car as well.

Gozo is much quieter than Malta and you would only stay there for the full duration of your trip if you’re not too interested in exploring the island of Malta. The ferry crossing to Malta takes 25 minutes alone so you’d have a pretty big commute every time and especially with kids that won’t be practical. The options I see are: 1) Plan to spend a day in Gozo, which is easy to do from Mellieha (10 min drive to ferries at Cirkewwa in far North) – or multiple trips 2) Split your stay between X days in Mellieha and X days in Gozo, although perhaps logistically that wouldn’t be practical for you either.

This is the best info I have seen about how to explore Malta and thanks for your patience for the questions as well. Tried to read all comments to see if the answer is hidden but still want to ask. We are at early 30’s and will visit at the first week of July for 6 nights with my husband. It is really hard to decide where to stay. Main goal is the best beaches, but would like to see what is to explore in city centre too. so was planning to stay in Mellieha bay or golden by( radisson) for a few days. Then mostly at st julian( corinthia may be) but you say st george bay not clean to swim? Raddison comments say there is not much options to eat out. Is that true? Because we dont plan to rent a car. So i decided on db seabank+spa but requires 5 nights stay. How are the options to go to the blue lagoon, golden or paradise bay from there? Also cruises schedule from mellieha? So we will have one more night to stay in centre, could be st julian for the best? What about masaxlokk side? Seems perfect clean for swimming

Hi Burcu, a few quick replies to your questions: * The issue with St. George’s Bay is that it’s right at the edge of Paceville, which is the country’s main nightlife area. That means that the beach gets dirty pretty quickly, especially during the night. So although the local authorities make a good effort to clean the beach in the early morning I wouldn’t recommend it as one of the best beaches on the island. Is it safe to swim and an option if you’re staying? Yes, it is. Is it the most beautiful/clean beach around? Not in my opinion, no. * The Radisson at Golden Bay is a great place to stay, though aside from the few restaurants the hotel has to offer there’s only one other restaurant on the beach. You’re a little isolated there if you’re not renting a car (which, if you’re staying in that part of the island or at Mellieha is perfectly doable – not very busy at all on the roads, apart from Sundays). * The Seabank was refurbished pretty recently and it’s a nice hotel to stay at, plus you’re right opposite the largest sandy beach. You can reach Paradise Bay and Golden Bay quite easily, although the latter requires a switch of routes at Xemxija and takes around 30 mins I’d say. Blue Lagoon and boat trips you can find at Cirkewwa, near the ferry to Gozo (also recommended) – which you can reach easily and quickly by bus from the Seabank hotel. * St. Julians is nice to stay at for hotel choice and restaurants, although Sliema makes it easier to find boat trips/cruises around the Grand Harbour and to Comino (Blue Lagoon) and Gozo. You also get a ferry connection to Valletta if you want to explore the capital city. Marsaxlokk is very quiet and you’ll be a little isolated without a car I’d say. It is clean for swimming but it’s not the most beautiful beach you’ll find in Malta.

Hi My friend and I are planning on visiting Malta from 11th June for a week, we are in our late 30’s. We would like different options, we would like to visit some of the traditional Maltese villages/towns and experience the authentic way of life and we also want the option on some days of good beaches and complete relaxation, we would like the option of some nightlife (good restaurants and bars with the option to stay out late if we choose too). We are not planning on hiring a car. We would like the option of boat trips and don’t mind a bus trip to a good beach. Can you please recommend the best resort and some good hotels with nice pools? We are looking for comfort but good value for money. Thanks.

Great helpful website 🙂

Hi, the info on this page is absolutely brilliant. My fiance and I are going to Malta 13th May for 7 nights. We enjoy going out, beaches, water sports but want to have an authentic experience of the country. Trying to do it on a budget- but will probably splash out for the last night for fiances birthday. We won’t be driving. I’m considering staying in St Julians for 3 nights,-to go enjoy the nightlife and to visit the Blue Lagoon- is that easy to get to without a car? Might spend the fourth night in Gozo, and 3 nights at the beaches at Mellieha- is that where the nicest beaches are? Any recommendations for somewhere nice to stay there? Is there public transport from Mellieha to the airport..we’d be flying back on a Friday. Thanks in advance! Claire

Hi, me and my boyfriend will be travelling to Malta during week 34 in August and are not sure where to stay. We don’t want to be among loads of tourists or the busiest place with nightclubs, however we do like to go on restaurants and have some choosing options where to eat. We enjoy going on adventures and travel around a bit to get that genuine feeling of the country we’re in. We also like to mix it up with some beachdays and relax. So a little bit of citylife and a little bit f the Maltese countryside I guess would suit us pretty good, or what do you think?

Hi there Emma! Are you guys looking to rent a car during your stay? That makes a big difference as to what to suggest.

Hi Edward. We will be a party of 3 travelling to Malta for 10 days from around 19 July. All inclusive hotel but doesn’t have to be The Ritz just good location/facilities and pleasant food/drinks. My 13 year old son would like a large pool near beach with pool table/table tennis etc where he can make friends. Partner likes a good pool/good food/entertainment in the evening and a location with a few live bars/entertainment etc. Having never been Malta before I’m keen to explore – especially Gozo/Como and the Capital Valetta – hopefully our timing might coincide with a Fiesta? We plan to hire a car. Could you recommend anywhere in Malta which might suit everyone? Thanks, Steph

Amazing website – thank you!

Your help would be much appreciated – you seem to be the guru of Malta 🙂

Myself and 2 of my girlfriends are planning on coming to Malta in August. We would like a destination which has good beaches and somewhere with a buzz in the evening.

We would like somewhere with pretty restaurants to enjoy long dinners before heading out afterwards. we aren’t so fussed about big night clubs but would like to go somewhere we can go to lively bars after dinner, beach bars perhaps?

We are all on our early 30’s, any recommendations on where to stay?

Hi Rachel, thanks – glad you like it 🙂

So it sounds like nightlife is pretty important to you, in which case your best bet is St. Julians, and more specifically the Spinola/Balluta Bay area, NOT the area known as Paceville because you’ll be right in the middle of the busiest part with night clubs. There are plenty of bars and pubs around the area and some great restaurants to try as well.

The only downside is the beaches – there’s no place I know of that offers both good nightlife AND sandy beaches in the same place unfortunately. The nearest bathing area is in the neighbouring town of Sliema (5-10 min bus ride) but it’s a rocky beach. Good for sun bathing, easy to get in and out of the sea, but no sand. The area is known as Exiles. Alternative 1: Go to a lido (there are a few good ones around in St. Julian’s and Sliema, alternative 2: Take a bus to Golden Bay and Ghajn Tuffieha (pron. aajn too-fee-hah) – two beautiful sandy beaches on the West coast of Malta. Bus route is 225 and trip is around 1 hour.

As for timing – if you do plan to stay at St. Julian’s in August, I’d recommend going around 25-28 August. That weekend the local village feast is held – bit of culture, fireworks over the bay, food & drink – you get the picture. Another tip: Open air clubs like Gianpula (and particularly Marrakesh, part of the Gianpula complex) are worth going to. You’ll need to take a taxi, however – probably around 30 euro between the three of you, to and from St. Julians.

Hope that helps!

Excellent information! Really helped me make up my mind Thanks!

My husband and I will be travelling in Spain then across to Malta for a 6 night stay this July. We have never been there before and we are thinking about hiring an apartment but not sure what area would be best for us. We do like to have some nightlife as in bar/restaurant but not really night clubs, we do like to walk every where we can especially out at night , have a choice of dining options and if possible be close to a beach where we can swim. We are 46/47 years old. What area would you recommend that we stay in please?

Hi Jacqui, St. Julian’s (The part adjacent to Sliema) as well as Sliema itself will be good options if you enjoy a little nightlife and good dining. Beaches, however, are limited to rocky bathing areas with. There are no sandy beaches around, but bathing areas in the area are still fine for swimming and sunbathing. If a sandy beach is important to you, you could consider Bugibba (which also offers decent options for dining and nightlife – although not as good – and there’s an artificial sandy beach) or Mellieha, which is closest to some of the best beaches on the island but then nightlife is pretty limited, despite there being some great options for dining. You’ll be better off hiring a car if you choose to stay here, however, as it is a little remote. You’ve also mentioned to me separately the wish for accommodation with character/history. Your best bet in that case is probably Valletta, which is also good for dining/nightlife, and although no sandy beaches are nearby you can reach any beach of your choice pretty easily with the main bus terminal sitting right outside the city. For accommodation, you’ll mostly find modern buildings in Sliema and St. Julian’s (also Bugibba/Qawra). I hope that helps!

Very good points to help choose a location Thanks

This information is the difference between a really enjoyable family holiday or a 2 week nightmare. I really appreciate this, thank you very much

Glad it’s helpful to you, Anthony! 🙂

This is extraordinarily helpful information. Thank you very much!

I found this concise Guide to Malta a great help, never having stayed in Malta before. Thank you.I think Sliema would suit us best. Now to choose a hotel!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Yes, I would like to receive emails from you with Malta travel tips.

Get the most out of your visit to Malta with Malta Uncovered guidebooks – full of local knowledge and up-to-date for 2024 !

© 2006-2024 Malta Uncovered. All Rights Reserved.

Where to Stay in Malta: 11 Best Areas

Find out where to stay in Malta with our in-depth area guide. Discover the best areas and neighbourhoods to stay in Malta for sightseeing and book your accommodation in a convenient location.

Malta is a central Mediterranean three island nation gem just south of Sicily, Southern Italy. What makes it unique to other mid Med destinations is that unlike most other islands in this sea, it is a sovereign nation , which happens to be one of the smallest on earth with a territory of only 125 square miles.

Yet packed within the sunny corners of this island are so many sites and treasures to see that you can not realistically hope to do them all justice in a single week long visit.

Apart from the sun, sea, and sand, the island is justly famed for being the 300 year long home of the great building crusader Knights of St. John . This enterprising group arrived in the 1530’s and stayed until nearly 1800 when Napoleon at last drove them out.

In those three centuries, the Knights kept busy building 365 historic churches around the islands (to have one for every day of the year ), over a dozen castle forts up and down the islands, three walled cities including the new capital Valletta and the old capital Mdina , and numerous palaces, charming villas, traditional Maltese houses, and formal gardens.

The islands are a feast for the eyes, with the beautiful wild flowers nearly as common as the architectural and artistic delights that cover the islands.

There is something here for everyone , from worshippers of the sun, to nightlife lovers, to nature walkers and everyone in between.

Be sure to bring your walking shoes whatever you do, for from cities like Valletta and the Three Cities to Mdina, Mellieha, and Victoria, this is a country that was made for walking and exploring by foot and on bus.

In the rest of the article, we look at the various areas in Malta and where to stay in Malta .

Table of Contents

Where to Stay in Malta: Best Areas

There are three main areas in Malta where tourists stay and several other minor ones. The big three most popular areas in which to stay in Malta while visiting are Sliema/St. Julian’s/Gzira, Bugibba/St. Paul’s Bay/Qawra, and Valletta/Floriana.

The good news is that all areas in Malta are safe for tourists, for either men or women traveling alone and in small groups alike.

1. Sliema, one of the best places to stay in Malta

Sliema is the commercial capital of Malta and a great place to do some shopping while visiting. It is also home to some of the more exclusive and expensive hotels in Malta along with neighbouring St. Julian’s to the north.

Sliema is an excellent choice for a place to stay in Malta for those people who love a variety of fine and casual dining options , as it has a plethora of both.

This is not the best area stay in Malta for those who are backpacking and looking for hostels, but for the upper mid to high-end budget range , it is a perfect choice.

From Sliema, visitors have an unimpeded view across the harbor to Valletta , whose stunning medieval walls and churches are all lit up every night.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN SLIEMA

• ($$$) AX The Palace
• ($$) 1926 Hotel & SPA
• ($) Sliema Marina Hotel

2. St Julian´s, where to stay in Malta for nightlife

St. Julian’s is a former colourful fishing village turned high-end tourist lodging town, making it a fun place to stay in Malta . The highest building here is known as the Beckham building, where David Beckham long owned the top floor penthouse.

Visitors here will find a decent sandy beach on the north end of town at St. George’s Bay, many mostly high-end four and five star hotels, a beautiful seafront promenade that extends down into Sliema (and is the longest continuous stretching walking promenade in Europe).

Two picturesque bays make up the town of St. Julians’ which nestles in between and around them, and you can still see the colourful Maltese fishing vessels in both Balluta Bay and Spinola Bay as they ply their ancient fishermen’s trade.

For those who thirst for edgy nightlife , this is the place to be and where to stay in Malta. Neighbouring Paceville is the hands down, purpose built nightlife capital of the islands. There are bars and nightclubs here ranging from swanky and trendy to down right sleezy to suit all interests.

A high-end shopping mall and several shopping streets provide a more docile form of entertainment for those who like to call it a night earlier.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN ST JULIAN´S

• ($$$) Hilton Malta
• ($$) be.HOTEL
• ($) The District Hotel

3. Valletta, best place to stay in Malta for sightseeing

This is the walled fortress city capital of Malta , dotted with over 28 historic churches, the Inns of the Knights of St. John, interesting national museums, and several impressive fortresses and palaces as well.

From the Upper Barrakka Gardens you can enjoy free million dollar views over Grand Harbour into the Three Cities and the imposing Fort St. Angelo, still commanding the harbour vantage points and still held by the Knights of St. John (and occupied by them on the top floor of the three story fort) to this day.

There are not so many hotel options within Valletta city limits itself, though a few four and five star hotel choices do exist inside and immediately outside of the walled city environs.

The one square mile charming city holds the distinction of being the smallest capital city in all of Europe for good reason, and it was honored as the European Capital of Culture for 2018.

The city always has something going on, and is an excellent venue for walkers and backpackers, though it does not offer many budget accommodations for them.

Ferries are available to take visitors across the Grand Harbor to the Three Cities’ Vittorioso and also across to Sliema the commercial and shopping center of the island.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN VALLETA

• ($$$) The Phoenicia Malta
• ($$) Palais Le Brun
• ($) Hotel Castille

4. Il-Gżira and Msida, budget price accommodations and local experience

These two towns are much more Maltese residential areas. Gzira is immediately south of and adjacent to Sliema but is definitely much more of a working middle class town.

It looks over to Manoel Island , a causeway linked mid-harbor island that features exhibitions and a late medieval era fortress.

There are several more budget priced accommodations and hotels for visitors interested in watching their budget in both Gzira and Msida.

Msida has a lovely marina filled with hundreds of sail boats and a beautiful historic church also overlooking the harbor. Backpackers and hostel seekers are more likely to find success in these towns.

Good public transport in the form of the national bus line Tallinja connects these two towns with both Sliema/St. Julian’s and Valletta the capital, which can be seen across the harbor from many coastal parts of Gzira.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN MALTA IN IL-GAZIRA AND MSIDA

• ($) Azur Hotel by ST Hotels
• ($) 115 The Strand Hotel by NEU Collective
• ($) Euro Guest House

Read Also: Best things to do in Malta

5. Mellieha, where to stay in Malta for a beach vacation

The beach capital of Malta, Mellieha Bay is wall to wall full of hotels ranging from mid range to high-end in price, all sitting directly on the bay and beaches. The town itself sits up on a high plateau overlooking the beach far below.

Mellieha is a charming out of the way settlement with as many people living here as in the capital.

It was honored as a European Union Tourism Destination of Choice for 2014, and remains a solid draw for those visitors to Malta who do not want to be in one of the three main overcrowded tourist centers of the island.

With over a dozen nationally regarded restaurants and pubs, it offers a decent selection of dining establishments and a far tamer form of nightlife here than St. Julian’s and its wild neighbour Paceville.

The main draw here is the beach and walks around the fairly large and most scenic town in Malta.

Backpackers will be in heaven here with a range of high hills and verdant vistas, and they will also find affordably priced accommodation suitable for their budgets.

Mellieha is only not a great choice for those who crave a thriving and wilder nightlife, as it is a sleepier town where the bus service shuts down around 9 pm each night.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN MALTA IN MELLIEHA

• ($$$) Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands (in Golden Bay)
• ($$) db Seabank Resort + Spa All Inclusive
• ($$) Maritim Antonine Hotel & Spa

6. St. Pauls Bay, Bugibba and Qawra, where to stay in Malta for families

The northern nightlife center of Malta is based around the three towns on St. Paul’s Bay— Bugibba, St. Paul’s Bay, and Qawra.

A favourite settlement among expats as well as the local Maltese, this is a place where visitors are just as likely to rub shoulders with British party people and expats as they are with working Eastern European and Balkans residents.

As far as accommodation goes, this area has long drawn in budget conscious travellers from Great Britain and Northern Europe especially.

Any remnants of a fishing industry are long gone here, as the area has enthusiastically given itself completely over to its calling as a full-scale tourist area and resort.

There are a few high-end hotels here, but most establishments are definitely on the budget friendly and backpacker side of the price range .

The area really caters to those looking for sun, sea, and overflowing alcohol in abundance in a relaxed, seaside, non-stop party-like atmosphere.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN ST PAULS BAY, BUGIBBA AND QAWRA

• ($$) Dolmen Hotel Malta
• ($$) AX Seashells Resort
• ($) The Pearl – Luxury Guest House

7. Mdina and Rabat, the original capital of Malta

Mdina and Rabat were originally a single town, the original capital of Malta from at least Imperial Roman times. First the Arabs and then the Knights of St. John separated Mdina from Rabat with a wide water moat and a bridge across it from Rabat to Mdina.

Vistas from the top of Mdina ramparts provide beautiful countryside and city-scape views of nearly half of Malta.

The area is mostly populated by locals and feels extremely residential, though bus loads of tourists come in on day trips from the hotels and cruise ships most everyday.

Hotels in either Mdina or Rabat are scarce , smaller and more personable, and higher-end .

It is definitely not the hostel or backpacker set of digs here. Only 300 people populate Mdina , and many of their families’ ancestors have been resident within the walls for hundreds if not thousands of years.

Nightlife here is non-existent other than some really fine and pricey restaurants , as every night the towns return to their original and more familiar sleepy roles of being traditional Maltese countryside residential communities.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN MDINA AND RABAT

• ($$$) The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux
• ($) Quaint Hotel Rabat
• ($) Point de vue

8. Three Cities: Birgu, Senglea and Cospicua

The first headquarters of the Knights of St. John when they landed in Malta and prepared for the inevitable Turkish Great Siege, today’s Three Cities are far sleepier than they were 500 years ago.

Lodgings here would tend to be much more guesthouses or bed and breakfasts than hotels. The middle class Maltese residential areas are favorites of the locals with their sweeping views of Grand Harbor across to Valletta.

Another place where nightlife might mean a single lonely bar or pub, the Three Cities are not for the the wild nightlife set or the young at heart.

Aside from a few restaurants (and not really too many of these even), these local communities boast walks along charming steep Italian looking narrow streets more than beaches, parties, night life, or even shopping.

The towns are definitely busier and livelier during the days when the day trippers spill out from the buses coming from area hotels and cruise ships than after dark at night when a person can have a street all too himself if he so desires.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN MALTA IN THE THREE CITIES

• ($$$) Cugo Gran Macina Grand Harbour
• ($) Casa Birmula Hotel 
• ($) Nelli’s B&B

9. Marsaskala, where to stay in Malta on a budget

Marsaskala is one of two unique working seaside fishing villages turned towns in modern day Malta.

A significant working fishing fleet still plies these waters leaving Marsaskala Harbor early every morning before sun up and returning each morning laden with fresh fish that they proceed to sell still quite fresh and right off of the quayside.

One or two mid range hotels dot the town, which features more guest houses and rooms for rent than hotels.

The town sits astride not one but two bays Marsaskala Bay and St. Thomas Bay, each with a lengthy and enjoyable promenade, making Marsaskala popular with the backpacking and beach combing sets .

For a town of less than 15,000 people, the fishing port actually offers three night clubs scattered around town, a number of late night Irish and English pubs , and dozens of good nationally renowned restaurants .

In summer time, the population rises by around 50 percent as both foreigners and locals come to spend weeks, months, or the entire summer down in Marsaskala.

Between the town’s two beaches, promenades, restaurants, and nightlife, and even a 500 year old castle fort of the Knights still standing guard faithfully over the now becalmed Mediterranean Sea.

Marsaskala offers something for every interest and taste , except of course for high-end, expensive, or large hotels, all of which it is surprisingly (and refreshingly) lacking.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN MARSASKALA

• ($) Cerviola Hotel
• ($)  Sensi Hotel
• ($) C’est La Vie Guesthouse

10. Marsaxlokk, where to stay in Malta in a fishing village

The other serious working fishing village oozing with lots of authentic seaside charm, Marsaxlokk still resembles the fishing port that remains at the mainstay of its locally based economy. Residents of this far southern locale are mostly Maltese.

Day trippers swell the population of the town as they come down for the twice-weekly market , to try the famed seafood restaurants along the seafront, and for walks along the sea and views of the colorful traditional Maltese seaside fishing fleet of little boats and a few larger ones.

Hotels here are practically non-existent, and Marsaxlokk has this in common with Marsascala its relative neighbor of the South.

Guest houses and rooms for rent fill the smaller demand for places for visitors to stay in lower to mid-end budget accommodations .

The South remains a backpacker’s paradise and delight with some of the island’s best unspoiled nature, and visitors will see many of them haunting such interesting local landmarks such as St. Peter’s Poo l and the Blue Grotto in Zurrieq .

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN MALTA IN MARSAXLOKK

• ($) South Wind Guesthouse
• ($) Dun Gorg Guest House
• ($) Fisherman’s Cove Guesthouse

Read also: Best places to stay in Cyprus , best places to stay in Sicily , best places to stay in Crete

11. Gozo, excellent place to unwind and lose track of time

Gozo is totally unique in this island nation. The sister island to Malta has been accurately described as “the land that time forgot.” Visitors are just as likely to see a donkey pulling a vegetable cart to Victoria the capital here as they are hordes of crowds relentlessly combing the island.

Gozo may be one-quarter the size of neighboring Malta, but it has only around one-fifteenth of the population of its larger neighbor.

This means that visitors can backpack or drive until their hearts content, enjoying sparsely populated beaches , lonely green hills, abandoned rocky cliffs, and a fortress citadel capital in Victoria in the island’s heart.

There are places in Gozo where one can even enjoy a stretch of countryside all alone, a rarity in this most densely populated of European nations.

Places to stay in Malta in this small island range from guest houses and farm houses for rent, on up to mid range and high-end four and five star hotels mostly found in the popular several beach side resorts like Marsalforn or the intentionally centrally located capital of Victoria.

The island is an excellent place to unwind and even lose track of time . This means that nightlife is scarce though, so for those looking for more exciting night time pursuits or more abundant shopping opportunities, Gozo may not be the best choice of home base while staying in Malta.

For those looking for a secluded beach, enjoyable family run restaurant, or winding Victoria city streets separated by rolling green hills, this slower pace of life locale is the place to live like a local and take it easy on vacation for a change.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN MALTA IN GOZO

• ($$$) Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz
• ($$) Cornucopia Hotel
• ($) Murella Living

1 thought on “Where to Stay in Malta: 11 Best Areas”

Very informative, will definiately be back to this for further research on our pending first visit to Malta.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Best Area to Stay in Malta: 8 Towns With Their Pros and Cons

Visiting Malta was a unique experience for me. It is such a culturally and historically fascinating Mediterranean island that makes you feel like you’ve been transported to another time. But while I was planning my itinerary, I had one challenge – choosing the best area to stay in Malta.

This island is small, but there’s a lot to see, and getting around is not always simple and convenient (if you choose to use public transport instead of a car).

After exploring Malta, I could understand the characteristics of different areas and how easily reachable they were. So here’s a guide that will hopefully help you plan your trip.

* 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.

My favorite carb in Malta: Don’t miss out on trying Pastizzi, phyllo-like pastries filled with peas or ricotta cheese .

Table of Contents

Important Things to Know When Looking for the Best Area to Stay in Malta

1. Cars: I personally decided not to rent a car in Malta, not only because they drive on the left side of the road, but also because traffic is a big issue AND many sources made me want to avoid driving alongside Maltese drivers. Also, finding parking can be a challenge in the streets of these cities and towns, some of which are pedestrianized. If you do decide to rent a car, look for accommodations with private parking.

2. Public transport: While the local public transport system also isn’t perfect and it takes time to get from one place to another, I still found it fairly convenient to use buses, ferries, and taxis. So if you want to travel around the island without a car, choose an area that’s well-connected to different parts of Malta.

3. Beaches: Not all coastal towns and cities are necessarily good beach destinations as some don’t have beaches at all and others have rocky beaches, which are not suitable for everyone.

4. As lovely as most of these cities and towns are, they all have their not-so-pretty areas and streets with neglected buildings. Don’t expect every corner to be enchanting or picturesque, and note that you can find great hotels in Malta that are, unfortunately, located on very underwhelming streets.

5. Some accommodations require bookings of a minimum of 2, 3, or even 4 nights.

6. Malta uses plugs of type G and operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. Many hotels also have plugs C, E, and F, but consider packing a power adapter and a voltage converter.

7. Read all the small letters to see if the price includes all the local taxes/extra charges.

8. As you can imagine, accommodation prices rise in July and August (mainly in August), though it’s also important to note that Malta has become a very popular destination not only in summer .

Map and Quick Recommendations

Click here to access the My Maps interactive map of the best parts to stay in Malta.

I highly recommend diving into my detailed post with all the pros and cons of each area , but here are some quick highly-rated suggestions:

Valletta: The packed-with-landmarks historic capital city and a great base for first-time visitors looking to explore the island without a car. Stay at : 1. Ursulino Valletta 2. Tano’s Boutique Guesthouse 3. 66 Saint Paul’s & Spa

Sliema: Another lively city with good public transport connections to different parts of the island and some rocky beaches (only 5 minutes by ferry from Valletta). Stay at : 1. Amery House 2. Marea Boutique Hotels 3. Seafront Duplex Penthouse

Mellieha: One of the best destinations for a beach vacation, having the biggest sandy beach in Malta (can be good for couples, families, and groups of friends). Stay at : 1. DOMS Boutique Hotel 2. Mellieha Bay Waters

St. Paul’s Bay, Bugibba, and Qawra: Popular resort towns. Stay at : 1. Park Lane Boutique Aparthotel 2. Seaview Hotel

St. Julian’s: For nightlife lovers. Stay at : 1. Hotel Juliani 2. 123 Main Street

Marsaskala: A less-touristy fishing town. Stay at : 1. TJ Boutique 2. Interlace Apartment

Marsaxlokk: A famous fishing village in eastern Malta. Stay at : 1. La Reggia Seaview Guesthouse 2. Seagull Penthouse Marsaxlokk

Mdina (and Rabat): A unique historic city and the former capital. Stay at : 1. The Heritage Boutique Accommodation 2. Casa Azzopardi Guesthouse

Valletta – The Best Location to Stay in Malta for Sightseeing and Taking Day Trips

The UNESCO-listed capital city, Valletta, seems like the obvious choice when looking for accommodation in Malta because it’s the heart of the action yet also makes a great base for exploring the rest of the island.

The fact that it was founded by knights (how cool is that?) about 500 years ago and many buildings from that era are still standing also means that there’s so much to do and see here, and no traveler can skip out on visiting this fascinating city.

It boasts countless landmarks, from religious sites like St. John’s Co-Cathedral to the knights’ newly restored Grandmaster’s Palace to the lovely Lower and Upper Barrakka Gardens.

It’s also an idyllic place to roam photogenic streets adorned with colorful Maltese balconies and lined with restaurants and cafes. Other interesting experiences in Valletta include boat tours of the Grand Harbour, seeing the Saluting Battery, visiting the National Museum of Archaeology, and more.

Pros of Staying in Valletta

– You’ll never be bored here. The city is packed with interesting sights (like St. John’s Co-Cathedral , Grandmaster’s Palace, and Casa Rocca Piccola) , museums, restaurants, cafes, and shops. – Apart from visiting all the landmarks, you’ll enjoy strolling freely through its quintessential Maltese streets.

– It’s directly connected by public transport to most tourist spots in Malta, including the Blue Grotto, Marsaxlokk fishing village, Mdina, Ħaġar Qim Temples, and Dingli Cliffs (making it an ideal base for exploring the rest of the island).  You can also take the Gozo Fast Ferry to reach Malta’s Gozo Island.

Cons of Staying in Valletta

– It’s a popular city that can get quite crowded.

– There are no beaches in Valletta, though you can take a 5-minute ferry to enjoy Sliema’s rocky beaches or take a bus to sandy beaches like Golden Bay.

Highly-Rated Tours in Valletta

• Street food and culture walking tour
• A 3-hour walking tour of Valletta

Highly-Rated Places to Stay in Valletta

Tano’s Boutique Guesthouse (mid-range): Housed in an 18th-century building, this B&B offers rooms and suites (with a balcony) for up to 4 people, a shared terrace overlooking the sea and the Three Cities, and a highly-rated breakfast. Read more here.

Ursulino Valletta (mid-range): With modern rooms and suites for 2-4 people, a rooftop terrace overlooking the sea, a highly-rated breakfast, and a central location, this bed and breakfast has a rating of 9.4! Read more here.

66 Saint Paul’s & Spa (luxury): This centrally-located hotel offers elegant double rooms (some of which have sea views), a 24/7 reception, and an on-site bar. It also has a high-end spa and a rooftop pool & terrace. Read more here.

Le Parisot Boutique Suites (luxury): Situated a stone’s throw away from the Upper Barrakka Gardens, this hotel offers fully equipped, spacious, modern suites for 2-4 people. Breakfast is also available, as well as access to a rooftop terrace and an outdoor tub. Read more here.

Sliema – a Fantastic Base to Explore the Island

I loved staying in the city of Sliema, which is located only 10 km (about 6 miles) from the airport. It was once a small fishing village, but it has become a major residential and commercial hub.

It’s also a wonderful place to base yourself if you want to explore the rest of Malta by bus .

Pros of Staying in Sliema

– It’s directly connected by public transport to visit-worthy places in Malta like Valletta (only a 5-minute ferry) , the sandy Riviera Beach and Golden Bay (note that to get to Riviera Beach, you’ll have to walk down a lot of stairs from the parking lot/bus station ) , Mdina, Cirkewwa (from where you can take the ferry to Gozo island), and archeological sites such as Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum and Tarxien Temples.

– Y ou’ll find a variety of restaurants and bars in Sliema, many of which are situated on/near its coastal roads.

– You can stroll along its lovely promenade towards St. Julian’s and relax at one of its rocky beaches or lovely Roman Baths.

Cons of Staying in Sliema

– Though it’s home to a few points of interest like Saint Julian’s Tower and Fort Tigné, it’s not a landmark-packed city.

– It’s not necessarily a pretty/charming city. – When you walk from the waterfront toward the heart of the city, you’ll see that it’s built on a mild slope, so you might not like the location of hotels not near the promenade.

– It’s not directly connected by public transport to other popular spots like the Blue Grotto, Marsaxlokk fishing village, Ħaġar Qim Temples, and Dingli Cliffs.

Highly-rated Tours in/from Sliema

• Cruise around Malta’s harbors
• Comino Island & Blue Lagoon cruise

Highly-Rated Places to Stay in Sliema

I stayed at Slimiza Suites . Unfortunately, its rating dropped recently , so here ar e a few higher-rated options.

Amery House (mid-range): Situated a stone’s throw away from the rocky beach of Fond Għadir, this boutique hotel has cozy double rooms as well as suites with a terrace and a hot tub. A continental breakfast is included in the prices, and the rooms are equipped with a mini-bar and a coffee machine/kettle. Read more here.

Marea Boutique Hotels (mid-range) : Located in the heart of Sliema, this 4-star boutique hotel offers cozy modern double rooms, as well as suites with a private terrace overlooking the city. A continental breakfast is also available, and the waterfront is a 10-minute walk away. Read more here.

Seafront Duplex Penthouse (apartment):  If you’re a group of 3-4 people, this huge 2-bedroom & 2-bathroom apartment might be for you. Beyond all of its amenities, its biggest “feature” is the terrace with views of the sea and the city of Valletta. It’s also close to the ferry and several bus stations. Read more here.

Mellieha – Where to Stay in Malta for a Beach Vacation

One of the most northern towns in Malta, Mellieha is a great beach destination with a laid-back atmosphere (can be a great choice if you’re on a European girls’ trip , a couple’s trip, or a family trip).

Pros of Staying in Mellieha

– Closeness to Malta’s biggest sandy beach – Mellieħa Bay, also called Għadira Bay.

– Closeness to Malta’s other islands, Gozo and Comino.

– It is well-connected by public transport to both Sliema and Valletta.

Cons of Staying in Mellieha

– It is not as conveniently connected to other parts of Malta.

– Unless you find accommodation near the coast, it’s important to know that the town sits atop a hill (buses run regularly from the town to the beach).

Highly-Rated Places to Stay in Mellieha

Sunny Modern Apartments (budget/mid-range): With two types of apartments situated in the same building, you can book a 3-bedroom apartment (suitable for 6 people) or a penthouse apartment (suitable for 5 people), both spacious and fully equipped. There are a few nearby restaurants and buses that will take you down to Għadira Bay.  Read reviews and check its latest prices.

Mellieha Bay Waters (mid-range): Rated 9.7 and located right next to Għadira Bay, this fully-equipped, spacious 2-bedroom apartment is suitable for 4 people and offers free private parking and a terrace with sea views. Read more about it and book it here.

DOMS Boutique Hotel (boutique): This 4-star hotel offers double rooms and suites, some of which have a balcony and even a private hot tub. On-site, you’ll also find a brasserie and a gastro bar, and the bus station from where you can get to the beach is only a 2-minute walk away. Browse the latest prices here.

St. Paul’s Bay, Bugibba, and Qawra – Popular Resort Towns

Located in northwestern Malta, these three adjacent small localities are popular resort towns. From this area, you can also take cruises and boat tours to the island of Comino and its Blue Lagoon .

Pros of Staying in St. Paul’s Bay, Bugibba, and Qawra

– You’ll find a lovely promenade and plenty of restaurants and bars in the area.

– The area is well-connected by public transport to Sliema, Valletta, Mdina, and popular sandy beaches like Golden Bay, Riviera Beach, and Għadira Bay (note that to get to Riviera Beach, you’ll have to walk down a lot of stairs from the parking lot/bus station ) .

– Closeness to Malta’s other islands – Gozo and Comino.

Cons of Staying in St. Paul’s Bay, Bugibba, and Qawra

– These are typical tourist resort towns, so they’re not the place to stay if you’re looking for authentic, local experiences.

– There are a few rocky beaches here, but it’s not your ideal beach destination.

– They’re not pretty/charming towns.

Highly-Rated Places to Stay in St. Paul’s Bay, Bugibba, and Qawra

Seaview Hotel (mid-range/luxury): This adult-only (16+) 4-star hotel provides everything you’ll want on a vacation, from rooms & suites with sea views (some of which have a private hot tub) to excursion booking to on-site facilities such as an upper-deck infinity pool, a spa, a gym, bars, and restaurants. Consult its latest prices here.

Park Lane Boutique Aparthotel (mid-range):   Located near Buġibba Beach, this aparthotel offers open-plan studios for 1-5 people, a rooftop pool and terrace, and a small gym. Breakfast is also available, as well as free public parking nearby. Read more and browse availability here.

Pebbles Resort (mid-range): You might not need to leave this 4-star hotel in St. Paul’s Bay at all, as it offers spacious rooms for 2-4 people with a balcony (some of which have pool views), an on-site restaurant and bar, indoor and outdoor pools, a hot tub, and even a gym. Book your stay here.

St. Julian’s – The Best Place to Stay in Malta for Nightlife

Located right next to Sliema, St. Julian’s is a small town known for its hotels, restaurants, bars, pubs, and nightclubs (many of which are found in the district called Paceville ) .

Pros of Staying in St. Julian’s

– If you’re looking for a place that offers a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene, St. Julian’s is for you.

– The town is very close to Sliema, so you can still reach other parts of the island relatively easily.

Cons of Staying in St. Julian’s

– Although you’ll find a couple of sandy beaches in this area (including St George’s Bay and the small Balluta Bay Beach ) , it’s not your ideal beach destination because they’re not very clean or inviting.

– It’s a typical tourist resort town, so it’s not the place to stay if you’re looking for authentic, local experiences.

– It’s not necessarily a pretty town, apart from the area near Spinloa Bay, which is more visually pleasing.

Highly-Rated Places to Stay in St. Julian’s

123 Main Street (mid-range) :  Overlooking Spinola Bay, this family-run boutique hotel offers deluxe rooms and suites (with a balcony) for up to 3 people, an on-site bar, and a continental breakfast.  Read reviews and check its latest prices.

Hotel Juliani (boutique): Also overlooking Spinola Bay, this 4-star boutique hotel offers double rooms and suites and features an on-site restaurant, a rooftop terrace/pool, and a gym. A continental breakfast is available, as well as free private parking. Read more and browse prices here.

Marsaskala – One of the Best Fishing Towns to Stay in Malta

Located next to the famous village of Marsaxlokk, a seaside town you might like is Marsaskala.

Pros of Staying in Marsaskala

– It’s a laid-back less-touristy town, so it’s still relatively quiet and uncrowded.

– You’ll find many cafes and restaurants to choose from.

– Although not idyllic, there is a small beach in this town called St. Thomas Bay (it has a short strip of sand and the rest of it is rocky).

Cons of Staying in Marsaskala

– It is not so well connected by public transport to other areas in Malta, except Valletta and Marsaxlokk.

– If you’re looking for a vibrant place to stay, this is not it.

Highly-Rated Places to Stay in Marsaskala

Interlace Apartment (budget/mid-range) :  This is a spacious 3-bedroom apartment suitable for up to 6 people. It has two bathrooms, a terrace, and a fully-equipped kitchen, and it’s located near all the restaurants and bus stops.  Read reviews and check its latest prices.

TJ Boutique (mid-range) :  Located near the seafront within a short walk from all the restaurants and bus stops, this simple boutique hotel offers single or deluxe double rooms, a shared lounge, and a continental breakfast.  Read reviews and check its latest prices.

Mdina and Rabat – a Piece of History

No Malta itinerary is complete without the historic city of Mdina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former capital, dating back thousands of years.

It feels like it belongs to another era, and it is treated almost like a sacred place – no cars are allowed, it’s home to less than 300 inhabitants, and it’s called ‘The Silent City.’ That said, it has become a highly-visited city, and it does get busy when day trippers flock to see it.

You can count the number of accommodations in Mdina on the fingers of one hand, so if you want to stay close to this beautiful piece of history, book your accommodation in the nearby Rabat (located just a short walk away from the main city gate), which used to be a suburb of Mdina.

To get to know the city, you can take a guided walking tour .

Pros of Staying in Mdina and Rabat

– You’ll be close to all the sights of Mdina as well as to landmarks like St Paul’s Catacombs.

– Rabat itself is a bit more lively and has quite a few cafes and restaurants.

– Rabat and Mdina are well-connected by public transport to places like Valletta, the Blue Grotto, Mosta, Dingli Cliffs, Hagar Qim Temples, and the airport.

Cons of Staying in Mdina and Rabat

– Rabat and Mdina are not coastal, so getting to any main beach requires taking a bus or a taxi.

– Mdina can get a bit crowded with day trippers.

– It’s not the usual area most people choose to stay in, so highly-rated accommodation options are limited.

Highly-Rated Places to Stay in Mdina and Rabat

The Heritage Boutique Accommodation (mid-range):  This beautifully decorated bed and breakfast is located in Rabat and offers cozy double rooms with a small kitchenette, some of which have a private terrace. Many cafes and restaurants are located nearby, and Mdina is only a short walk away.  Read reviews and check its latest prices.

Casa Azzopardi Guesthouse (mid-range) :  Also located near the entrance to Mdina, this guesthouse offers spacious double rooms and suites with a balcony and free public parking nearby.  Read reviews and check its latest prices.

Marsaxlokk – a Famous Fishing Village in Malta’s Southeastern Region

Known for its harbor packed with colorful traditional Maltese boats, Marsaxlokk is a beloved fishing village. Its Sunday market has become a highly popular tourist attraction, selling fresh fish, vegetables, souvenirs, and more.

Marsaxlokk is located less than 7 km (4.5 miles) from the airport in the eastern part of Malta.

Pros of Staying in Marsaxlokk

– The village is small, but it’s home to more than enough restaurants, and it even hosts a famous market on Sundays.

– There are a few nearby natural swimming pools like St. Peter’s Pool (you’ll find boat ride services at the village’s promenade).

Cons of Staying in Marsaxlokk

– The village is not so well connected by public transport to other places on the island, except Valletta.

– It has a lovely harbor and promenade, but other streets can be underwhelming.

– I visited on a tranquil day, but it can get busy due to the popularity of its harbor and market.

Highly-Rated Places to Stay in Marsaxlokk

La Reggia Seaview Guesthouse (budget/mid-range): Offering double rooms with sea views, this bed and breakfast sits right next to the promenade and overlooks the harbor. Breakfast is served on the rooftop terrace, and restaurants, cafes, and boat services are nearby. Browse prices and availability here.

Seagull Penthouse Marsaxlokk : Accommodating up to 8 people, this extremely spacious apartment overlooks the entire bay. It is fully equipped and has four bedrooms, two bathrooms, a big terrace with scenic views, and even a hot tub. A short walk will take you to the village’s promenade. Read more about it and book it here.

Related Posts

• Malta travel tips
• Best places to stay in Aosta Valley
• Best areas to stay in Turin
• Best areas to stay in Madrid
• Best areas to stay in Bari
• Best area to stay in Vienna for Christmas markets

* I haven’t stayed at every hotel I mention in this post, but each one is well-researched, has high ratings of 8.5+ on Booking.com, and is a place I would book for myself. That said, you should always read the reviews and all the details about the facilities and services to see if they match your needs.

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.

20 thoughts on “Best Area to Stay in Malta: 8 Towns With Their Pros and Cons”

Hi loved this article. Where would you say is the best place to go that has a nice holiday feel. With some bars and restaurants that is easy to get to get to valletta and Mdina. Thanks.

Hey. Jan! It sounds like you might like Sliema. It’s not the prettiest city, but it’s lively with lots of places to eat. It also has a lovely promenade, nice rocky beaches and Roman Baths, and it’s only a 5-minute ferry ride away from Valletta and a relatively short bus ride away from Mdina.

Hi, amazing article you got here, very helpful tips. I am planning to go in November, would you be able to tell me about what kind of weather to expect and are bars and cafes still opened during that month ?

Hey, Ron 🙂 I haven’t been to Malta in November, but to my knowlege, most restaurants and cafes are open year round, and the temperatures are supposed to be quite pleasant, but November is the rainiest month (though Malta is a sunny country).

Me and my partner would love to go to Malta and explore, go to the war museum, explore the caves, relax on the beach etc. We are also after great restaurants and a few pubs. We are in our early 30s and don’t want to be in a young, busy lively area full of nightclubs and the party scene, but in the same breathe don’t want to be anywhere too quiet and with no atmosphere. We’re hoping to hire a moped or car to explore the island. Where would you suggest would be the best place to stay?

Thanks so much 😊 xx

Hey, Liv! I think Valletta is a great base to explore the island (it doesn’t have a beach, but sandy beaches are a bus ride away). It’s lively but not full of young people who only come there for nightlife. That said, accommodations with private parking can be challenging to find in Valletta (I know renting scooters and motorbikes is popular, but I haven’t tried it myself, so I don’t know if it’s easier to find parking for them if you rent them for more than one day).

Thanks so much for the tips! Would you say it’s expensive there for food/drinks? xx

You’re welcome! I think it’s pretty average if you compare to countries like Italy or Spain. I haven’t dined there at high-end restaurants, but you can find cheap eats/street food like pastizzi for 2-3 euros, and a pasta dish at a mid-range restauarnts should cost 14-18 euros (that’s what I usually paid).

Sounds perfect! Thankyou so much for the tips! Will definitely be booking ☺️ xx

That’s great to hear! Would love to get your feedback when you come back!

Hi, my friend is traveling with a girl in July, they are young people and they are looking for a place with nice beach and vibrant (night)life.. Which area is the best one for young people like them (25-30years old)?

Hey! For this combo, you might want to look into Mellieha. Its beach is the largest sandy beach in Malta, and although I haven’t experienced its nightlife scene, I know there are quite a few bars there. St. Julian’s is the best area for nightlife, but its beach id definitely is not as good as Mellieha’s.

Hi i am going to Malta with my sister and we are looking for a place with sandy beach, well-connected public transportation (we don’t have a car), night life would be great 😅 but it’s not a must Thank you in advance

If you’re willing to replace the sandy beach with rocky beaches, I’d say go for Sliema (you can also get from Sliema to the sandy Riviera Beach). If not, Mellieha might be a good choice for you if sandy beaches are your top priority. You’ll be close to Għadira Bay, and it’s well connected to Valletta, Gozo, Riviera Beach, and Golden Bay, but if you want to visit places like Marsaxlokk and Mdina, you’ll have to switch buses.

wow,this article was heaven sent.I will be travelling with a group of girls for a long weekend but i feel the days are not enough to quench my Malta thirst hence i extended by 2½ days to enjoy on what was not planned in the group itinerary .what Museum and historic or old towns do you suggest? street foods and typical cultural foods to try? is there something like club crawling ?

I’m happy you find it helpful!

Valletta the capital and Mdina are two historic cities well worth a visit. I also traveled by bus through Mosta, which seemed very charming. Regarding street food, pastizzi (pastries filled with cheese or peas) are a must. And I know there’s a pub crawl in St. Julian’s (in the Paceville district), but I haven’t tried it myself.

Thanks for writing about your experience and sharing the details. It is much appreciated.

I am planning a solo trip and my initial itinerary was from London to Valletta and then visit other cities with beaches. However since there is no beach in Valletta would you recommend a stay in MARSASKALA instead (especially if i am after a quiet place with a beach)? Is it safe to travel at night between MARSASKALA to Valletta?

Thank you in advance for your time and support.

When are you planning to visit Malta? If you’re looking to stay in a quiet place then Marsaskala might be for you but note that its beach is small (and is partially sandy and partially rocky). If you’re looking for bigger, proper sandy beaches, I think you also shouldn’t rule out staying in Valletta and traveling by bus to beaches like Għadira Bay, Riviera Beach, and Golden Bay.

Generally, I felt safe traveling by bus in Malta, but I haven’t done it at night.

Thanks this is so very helpful, especially the description of beaches as my partner has mobility problems, meaning rocky beaches are not so great for us! We hope to go to Marsaxslokk or Marsaskala in August. What is St.Thomas bay like for gradient / rocks please?

Hi Rachel! I’m glad this is helpful – most beaches in Malta are not necessarily friendly for people with mobility problems. You might want to see a proper photo on Google Maps, but St.Thomas Beach has a small strip of sand (roughly 10 meters) the rest of it is rocky.

*Your emil address will not be published. By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

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.

• Couple Travel

Where to Stay in Malta for Couples – Best Guide!

• Written by Author

Share This Post

Where to Stay in Malta for Couples? Stay in Valletta or St Julian’s for a romantic getaway in Malta as a couple. Discover the perfect couples’ retreat in Malta with a stay in either Valletta or St Julian’s.

Whether you’re looking for historical charm or vibrant nightlife, these two locations offer the best of both worlds. Valletta, the capital city, boasts stunning architecture and a rich history, while St Julian’s offers a bustling waterfront and a range of entertainment options.

Both locations are well connected to other parts of the island, making it easy to explore Malta’s beautiful beaches and charming villages. With a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to cozy boutique guesthouses, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay for a memorable couples’ vacation.

Table of Contents

Planning A Romantic Getaway In Malta

Malta, with its beautiful beaches, captivating history, and romantic atmosphere, is the perfect destination for a getaway with your partner. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, planning a honeymoon, or simply looking to spend quality time together, Malta offers the ideal setting for couples.

Best Time To Visit Malta For Couples

When it comes to planning a romantic getaway, timing is crucial. To make the most of your trip, it’s important to consider the best time to visit Malta with your partner. The Mediterranean climate in Malta means that the island enjoys warm temperatures throughout the year. However, the peak tourist season, which runs from June to September, can be crowded and hectic.

If you’re looking for a quieter and more intimate experience, it’s recommended to visit Malta during the shoulder seasons of spring (April and May) and autumn (October and November). During this time, the weather is pleasant, the crowds are smaller, and you can enjoy the romantic ambiance of Malta without feeling overwhelmed.

Top Considerations For Choosing Accommodation

Choosing the right accommodation plays a significant role in creating a memorable romantic getaway in Malta. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

• Location: Opt for a hotel or a resort that is situated in a picturesque area, such as Valletta, Mdina, or the coastal towns of St. Julian’s or Sliema. A waterfront view or a secluded spot can enhance the romance of your stay.
• Amenities: Look for accommodations that offer amenities specifically designed for couples, such as private balconies, jacuzzis, or couples’ massages. These luxurious touches can make your stay even more special.
• Privacy: Consider booking a boutique hotel or a villa where you can enjoy privacy and seclusion. Having your own space allows you to relax and connect without any interruptions.
• Romantic extras: Some hotels in Malta offer romantic packages or special add-ons for couples, such as candlelit dinners, champagne upon arrival, or sunset boat trips. These thoughtful gestures can add an extra touch of romance to your stay.

By considering these factors when choosing your accommodation, you can ensure that your stay in Malta is both comfortable and romantic. Whether you prefer a luxurious hotel, a cozy boutique guesthouse, or a private villa, Malta has a range of options that cater to every couple’s preferences and budget.

Exploring The Romantic Neighborhoods Of Malta

Exploring the Romantic Neighborhoods of Malta

When it comes to finding the perfect destination for a romantic getaway, Malta offers a plethora of enchanting neighborhoods that are sure to create unforgettable memories for couples. From the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Valletta to the ocean views and vibrant atmosphere of Sliema, to the charming medieval city of Mdina, and the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk,

each neighborhood has its own unique charm and romantic allure. In this blog post, we will delve into these romantic neighborhoods of Malta and help you decide where to stay to make your couples’ vacation truly special.

Valletta: A Unesco World Heritage Site

Nestled in the heart of Malta, Valletta is an architectural masterpiece and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its rich history, breathtaking views, and romantic atmosphere make it an ideal destination for couples. Imagine strolling hand in hand through the narrow streets, lined with elegant palaces and Baroque churches. As you explore the city,

don’t miss out on visiting the Upper Barrakka Gardens, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Grand Harbor. Whether you choose to stay in a charming boutique hotel or a luxury accommodation, Valletta will provide the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway.

Sliema: Ocean Views And Vibrant Atmosphere

If you’re looking for a neighborhood that offers stunning ocean views and a vibrant atmosphere, Sliema is the place to be. Situated on the northeastern coast of Malta, this lively seaside town is dotted with waterfront promenades, trendy cafes, and chic boutiques.

Head to the Sliema Ferries, where you can catch a boat to the nearby island of Comino or take a romantic sunset cruise around the Maltese archipelago. Sliema also offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels with panoramic sea views to cozy guesthouses tucked away in quaint side streets.

Mdina: The Charming Medieval City

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the romantic charm of Mdina, the ancient capital city of Malta. Tucked away behind fortified walls, this medieval city is a true gem for couples seeking an intimate and romantic atmosphere. As you wander through its narrow, winding streets, you’ll come across stunning palaces, serene courtyards, and charming cafes. Be sure to visit St.

Paul’s Cathedral, a magnificent Baroque masterpiece, and enjoy a romantic dinner in one of the city’s intimate restaurants. To enhance the romantic experience, consider staying in one of the boutique hotels or guesthouses nestled within the city walls.

Marsaxlokk: A Picturesque Fishing Village

For a truly enchanting and picturesque experience, head to the fishing village of Marsaxlokk. Located on the southeastern coast of Malta, this colorful village is known for its traditional Luzzu boats and bustling Sunday fish market. As you stroll along the waterfront promenade, you can admire the vibrant fishing boats and savor the fresh seafood dishes in the cozy restaurants dotted

along the harbor. With its charming atmosphere and serene surroundings, Marsaxlokk offers a romantic retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Consider staying in one of the waterfront accommodations to fully immerse yourself in the village’s romantic ambiance.

With its diverse and romantic neighborhoods, Malta is a destination that will charm couples from all walks of life. Whether you prefer the historical charm of Valletta, the lively atmosphere of Sliema, the medieval enchantment of Mdina, or the picturesque beauty of Marsaxlokk, there is a neighborhood in Malta that will create the perfect setting for your romantic getaway.

Luxury And Romantic Hotels In Malta

Malta is a dream destination for couples seeking luxury and romance. The island offers a plethora of exquisite hotels that cater to your every need, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for secluded privacy, breathtaking views, or unique accommodation options, Malta has it all. In this blog post, we will highlight three exceptional hotels that are perfect for couples in search of a luxurious and romantic getaway.

Hotel 1: Ideal For Couples Seeking Luxury And Privacy

For couples who value their privacy and crave ultimate luxury, Hotel Serenity is the perfect choice. Nestled in a secluded corner of the island, this elegant five-star hotel offers an intimate and serene atmosphere. The rooms and suites at Hotel Serenity are beautifully designed, boasting contemporary décor and lavish furnishings. Enjoy a romantic dinner at their award-winning restaurant,

where gourmet dishes and fine wines await you. The hotel also features a private spa, where you and your partner can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and massages. With its impeccable service and attention to detail, Hotel Serenity is the epitome of luxury and exclusivity.

Hotel 2: Unforgettable Views And Exceptional Service

If breathtaking views and exceptional service are what you seek, Hotel Panorama is the place to be. Perched on a clifftop overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, this five-star hotel offers panoramic vistas that will leave you speechless. Wake up to stunning sunrises from your private balcony or terrace and unwind in the infinity pool while enjoying the awe-inspiring surroundings.

The staff at Hotel Panorama goes above and beyond to ensure your every need is met, providing personalized service that will make you feel like royalty. From the moment you arrive until the moment you leave, you can expect nothing less than perfection at this extraordinary hotel.

Hotel 3: Unique And Intimate Accommodation Option

For a truly unique and intimate experience, Hotel Oasis is a hidden gem that must not be missed. Located in the heart of Malta’s charming capital, Valletta, this boutique hotel offers a one-of-a-kind stay in a historic setting. Each room at Hotel Oasis is beautifully decorated with a mix of modern and traditional elements, creating a romantic ambiance that is hard to match.

Indulge in the hotel’s rooftop terrace, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city while sipping on a glass of champagne. The attentive staff at Hotel Oasis will ensure you have a memorable stay, catering to your every desire. If you’re looking for a truly unique and intimate accommodation option, this hotel is the perfect choice.

In conclusion, Malta offers a range of luxury and romantic hotels that are perfect for couples. Whether you prefer privacy and exclusivity, breathtaking views, or unique accommodation options, there is a hotel in Malta that will meet your every expectation. Treat yourself and your loved one to an unforgettable getaway at one of these exceptional hotels and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Affordable And Cozy Boutique Hotels

Affordable and Cozy Boutique Hotels in Malta for Couples

Malta, with its rich history, stunning coastline, and vibrant culture, is a romantic destination perfect for couples looking to escape to an idyllic setting. If you’re planning a trip to Malta with your loved one, finding the right accommodation is essential for a memorable stay.

When it comes to boutique hotels, Malta has an array of options that combine affordability with cozy charm. These smaller establishments offer a more intimate experience, ensuring a special and intimate getaway with your significant other. Here are three boutique hotels that provide both comfort and affordability, making them perfect choices for couples.

Hotel 1: Quaint And Budget-friendly Stay

Tucked away in the heart of Malta, this quaint boutique hotel offers a budget-friendly stay without compromising on comfort. With its charming aesthetics and personalized service, it creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere for couples.

The rooms are thoughtfully designed to provide a cozy retreat after a day of exploring the island. Each room is equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay that meets all your needs.

One of the standout features of this hotel is its attention to detail. From the beautifully decorated common areas to the friendly staff, every aspect of your stay is carefully curated to enhance your experience as a couple .

Hotel 2: A Charming Boutique Hotel With Local Charm

If you’re looking for a boutique hotel that embodies the local charm of Malta, this charming establishment should be at the top of your list. Situated in a picturesque location, it offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Step inside the hotel, and you’ll be enchanted by its rustic yet stylish decor. The rooms are filled with natural light, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The hotel’s restaurant serves delicious local cuisine made from fresh and seasonal ingredients, ensuring a delightful culinary experience for you and your partner.

From the moment you arrive, the friendly staff will go above and beyond to make your stay memorable. Whether it’s recommending hidden gems around the island or arranging romantic surprises, they are dedicated to ensuring your time here is nothing short of magical.

Hotel 3: Affordable Accommodation With A Romantic Atmosphere

For couples seeking affordable accommodation without compromising on a romantic atmosphere, this boutique hotel is the perfect choice. Nestled in a peaceful location, it offers a tranquil and intimate setting for you and your loved one.

The rooms exude a cozy ambiance, with soft lighting and comfortable furnishings. Each room is thoughtfully designed to provide the utmost privacy and relaxation. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening in or planning a romantic evening out, this hotel provides the ideal base for your couple’s retreat.

In addition to its charming rooms, this hotel offers a range of amenities designed for couples. From couples’ massages to private dining experiences, you’ll find everything you need to create unforgettable memories with your partner.

When it comes to finding affordable and cozy boutique hotels in Malta for couples, these three establishments offer an unforgettable experience. From their personalized service to their attention to detail, they provide the perfect setting for a romantic getaway with your loved one.

Idyllic Self-catering Villas And Apartments

Looking for the perfect accommodation for couples in Malta? Look no further than these idyllic self-catering villas and apartments. Offering privacy, comfort, and a range of amenities, these properties are the ideal choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway in this stunning Mediterranean destination.

Villa 1: A Private Retreat For Couples

Escape to Villa 1, a private retreat nestled in the picturesque countryside of Malta. With its tranquil surroundings and breathtaking views, this villa offers couples a truly romantic setting. The spacious living area boasts a cozy fireplace, perfect for snuggling up together on cooler evenings. The fully equipped kitchen allows you to cook delicious meals together, while the dining area provides a romantic spot for candlelit dinners.

The bedroom is luxuriously appointed, featuring a comfortable king-size bed and elegant furnishings. Open the French doors and step out onto your private terrace, where you can enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The villa also offers a private swimming pool, complete with sun loungers for relaxing under the Mediterranean sun.

Villa 2: Stunning Sea Views And Modern Amenities

For couples seeking a more contemporary setting, Villa 2 offers stunning sea views and modern amenities. This stylish villa is located in a quiet coastal area, just a short distance from Malta’s beautiful sandy beaches. Step inside and be greeted by a spacious open-plan living area, which features sleek furnishings and large windows that flood the space with natural light.

The fully equipped kitchen is perfect for couples who enjoy cooking together, while the dining area provides a stylish spot for intimate meals. The bedroom offers a comfortable retreat, with a plush queen-size bed and luxurious linens. Wake up to panoramic sea views from the bedroom’s large windows.

Outside, a private terrace awaits, complete with comfortable seating and a barbeque area. Enjoy al fresco dining while watching the sunset over the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Villa 2 also features a shared swimming pool and a sun deck, perfect for lazy days spent lounging by the water.

Apartment 1: Convenient And Cozy Apartment For Couples

If you prefer a more intimate and convenient option, Apartment 1 is the perfect choice for couples. Located in a charming neighborhood, this cozy apartment offers a comfortable and inviting space for your romantic getaway. The living area is stylishly furnished, with a comfortable sofa and a flat-screen TV for cozy nights in.

The kitchen is fully equipped with all the necessary amenities, allowing you to prepare your meals at your convenience. The bedroom features a comfortable double bed, ensuring a restful night’s sleep. The apartment also includes a private balcony, where you can enjoy a morning coffee or a glass of wine in the evening.

Apartment 1 is conveniently located near various attractions, including cafes, restaurants, and shops, ensuring you have everything you need at your doorstep. Explore the nearby historical sites or spend the day relaxing on the nearby beach.

Romantic Activities And Experiences In Malta

Malta, with its idyllic landscapes and charming ambiance, is the perfect destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway. From breathtaking sunset boat cruises along the coast to discovering hidden beaches and coves, Malta offers a plethora of activities for lovebirds to indulge in. Additionally, wine-tasting and vineyard tours add an essence of sophistication and pleasure to your stay. Let’s delve into these romantic experiences in more detail.

Sunset Boat Cruises Along The Coast

A sunset boat cruise is an unforgettable experience that will leave you and your partner in awe of Malta’s natural beauty. Sail along the picturesque coastlines, gliding through the sparkling azure waters as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of gold, pink, and purple. The gentle breeze in your hair and the sound of the waves create a serene and romantic atmosphere, perfect for creating lasting memories together. Whether you opt for a private cruise or join a group tour, this enchanting activity promises a romantic adventure unlike any other.

Exploring Hidden Beaches And Coves

In Malta, lovebirds can discover hidden treasures by exploring the secluded beaches and coves scattered along the coastline. Take a stroll hand-in-hand along the soft sandy beaches or venture into the hidden coves nestled between rocky cliffs. Find your little piece of paradise and bask in the tranquility and seclusion these idyllic spots offer.

From the famous Blue Grotto to the lesser-known Fomm ir-Riħ, each beach and cove has its charm, waiting to be discovered by adventurous couples. Pack a picnic, lay out a blanket, and enjoy an intimate and peaceful moment together against the backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty.

Wine Tasting And Vineyard Tours

Indulge in the finer things in life with a visit to one of Malta’s charming wineries and vineyards. Experience the art of winemaking firsthand as you embark on a wine-tasting and vineyard tour. Immerse yourselves in the rich aromas and flavors of Maltese wine, savoring each sip as you toast to your love. Stroll through the vineyards, hand in hand,

surrounded by lush green landscapes, and listen to the stories behind each bottle. Whether you are a wine connoisseur or simply a wine enthusiast, this romantic activity offers a delightful blend of culture, history, and tantalizing flavors.

Romantic Dining In Malta

When it comes to finding the perfect destination for a romantic getaway, Malta surely tops the list. With its stunning coastal views, charming streets, and rich culture, this Mediterranean gem offers couples the ideal setting for a memorable experience. And what better way to create beautiful memories than through a romantic dining experience? Malta is home to a myriad of restaurants that cater to couples looking to enjoy a special meal together.

Whether you prefer an elegant fine dining experience with a view, a cozy and intimate ambiance, or traditional Maltese cuisine in a romantic setting, this blog post will guide you to the best romantic dining spots in Malta.

Restaurant 1: Fine Dining With A View

Indulge in a taste of luxury at Restaurant 1, where fine dining meets breathtaking views. Nestled along the picturesque coastline, this restaurant offers couples an unforgettable experience with its panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean Sea. The chic and elegant ambiance sets the mood for a romantic evening, while the extensive menu features a fusion of international and Mediterranean flavors.

From fresh seafood delicacies to succulent steaks, every dish is crafted with precision and artistry. Whether you choose a table outside to bask in the sunset hues or an intimate spot indoors, Restaurant 1 guarantees a dining experience that will captivate your senses.

Restaurant 2: Cozy And Intimate Dining Experience

If you’re seeking a more intimate dining experience, look no further than Restaurant 2. Tucked away in the heart of Maltese charm, this cozy restaurant exudes warmth and romance. Step inside and be greeted by candlelit tables, soft music, and a welcoming ambiance. The menu is a delight, boasting a selection of dishes bursting with flavors and made from locally sourced ingredients. From the moment you enter,

the attentive staff ensures that every detail is taken care of, creating a relaxed and intimate atmosphere that is perfect for couples looking to celebrate their love. With its intimate setting and delectable cuisine, Restaurant 2 is a hidden gem that will leave you with cherished memories.

Restaurant 3: Traditional Maltese Cuisine In A Romantic Setting

For couples seeking an authentic taste of Malta combined with a romantic atmosphere, Restaurant 3 is a must-visit. Situated in a charming old town with cobbled streets and historic architecture, this restaurant offers an idyllic setting for a romantic evening. Step inside and be transported to a world of traditional Maltese flavors and warm hospitality.

The menu showcases a variety of Maltese specialties, from hearty stews to fresh seafood dishes, all prepared with love and attention to detail. Whether you choose an outdoor table under the twinkling stars or a cozy spot indoors, Restaurant 3 guarantees an enchanting dining experience that celebrates the best of Maltese cuisine and romance.

Frequently Asked Questions On Where To Stay In Malta For Couples

Which part of malta is best for couples.

The best part of Malta for couples is Valletta, known for its romantic atmosphere, charming streets, and stunning views. It offers a range of historical sites, waterfront dining, and cozy cafes, perfect for a romantic getaway.

Is Malta A Good Place For Couples?

Yes, Malta is a great destination for couples. Its picturesque beaches, historical sites, and vibrant nightlife offer a perfect blend of romance and excitement for couples to enjoy. The island’s stunning landscapes and charming towns also provide a romantic backdrop for couples to create memories together.

Is It Better To Stay In Valletta Or St Julians?

Valletta and St Julians offer different experiences. Valletta is best for history buffs, with its charming old town and cultural sites. St Julians is ideal for nightlife lovers, offering a vibrant atmosphere and entertainment options. Choose based on your preferences.

Is It Better To Stay In Valletta Or Sliema?

Valletta or Sliema? Valletta offers historical charm while Sliema provides a vibrant coastal atmosphere. Whether you prefer culture or beachside fun, it depends on your personal preference. Both destinations have their unique appeal.

To sum it up, Malta offers an array of delightful accommodation options for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Whether you prefer the luxury of a five-star hotel, the charm of a boutique guesthouse, or the intimate ambiance of a seaside apartment, there is something for every couple’s taste and budget.

From the stunning views of Valletta to the secluded beaches of Gozo, Malta promises an unforgettable experience for you and your partner. So pack your bags and embark on a journey filled with love, relaxation, and beautiful memories in this Mediterranean paradise.

More To Explore

Solo Travel Tips for Introverts

Is Feb a Good Time to Visit Bali?

Welcome to TravelOnKite.com, your passport to a world of wanderlust and adventure! We’re not just another travel website; we’re a community of globetrotters, dreamers, and adventure seekers who believe that life is meant to be explored.

© All rights reserved By travelonkite.com

Importent link

• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions
• Best Places
• Budget Travel
• Family Travel

Weekly Newsletter

Pin it on pinterest.

9 Best Places to Go in Portugal for Couples

W ith its rich history, rugged coastal charm, and expansive beaches, Portugal is a paradise for couples seeking adventure and relaxation. Join me as I explore these romantic gems and more in this detailed guide to the best places to go in Portugal for couples.

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

Most Romantic Places to Visit in Portugal for Couples

Imagine strolling hand-in-hand through Porto’s cobblestone streets, each corner revealing another cozy wine bar or a stunning view of the Douro River. Lisbon’s vibrant nightlife and historic trams offer a perfect blend of excitement and heritage, while the Algarve’s Lagos enchants with its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters. 

For wine lovers, the Douro Valley is unmatched, with its terraced vineyards and exquisite port wines. And for a fairytale adventure, there is no other destination than Sintra to add to your Portugal couple’s itinerary. 

Each romantic destination in Portugal is a unique gem, offering couples the chance to explore, indulge, and create unforgettable memories against a backdrop of unparalleled beauty and culture.

Porto, Portugal’s northern gem, captivates couples with its romantic allure, combining ancient charm with culinary delights. 

Start your journey at the Dom Luís I Bridge, where hand-in-hand, you can watch the sunset over the Douro River in hues of gold, offering a moment of serene connection. 

Venture into the heart of Porto to Taylor’s, one of the most esteemed port wine cellars. We recommend a guided tasting tour that reveals the intricacies of port wine production, enhancing your appreciation for Portugal’s iconic drink. 

For a memorable meal, dine at DOP by Rui Paula. The chef renowned for reinterpreting traditional Portuguese cuisine in a modern, romantic setting, perfect for a special evening. 

Don’t miss a visit to Livraria Lello in the Baixa neighborhood, one of the  best places to stay in Porto . This is often cited as one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores, where its stunning staircase and enchanting ambiance inspire whispered conversations and shared dreams. 

Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital, is a treasure trove of experiences for couples seeking romance amid its historic streets and modern vibe. 

Begin your exploration in Alfama, the city’s oldest and one of the most romantic  neighbourhoods in Lisbon , where the narrow, winding streets and traditional Fado music bars create an intimate atmosphere for evening outings.

For a touch of luxury, stay at Memmo Alfama , a boutique hotel offering stunning views of the Tagus River and a secluded feel within the city’s historic heart.

Take a leisurely ride on Tram 28, which weaves through Lisbon’s picturesque neighborhoods, providing a charming way to see the city’s highlights together. Stop at Belém to sample the iconic Pastéis de Belém , a sweet treat that’s best enjoyed in the company of your significant other.

For dinner, venture to Time Out Market Lisboa , where you can indulge in a gastronomic journey sampling dishes from some of Portugal’s finest chefs, making for a lively and delicious shared experience.

Cap off a day of exploration at Park , a rooftop bar offering breathtaking views of the city and a cozy spot to enjoy a cocktail as the sun sets, wrapping up your day in romance and beauty. 

3. Lagos, Algarve

Lagos, nestled in the heart of the Algarve Coast, is a paradise for couples in search of sun, sea, and secluded spots. Renowned for its stunning beaches and dramatic cliffs, this  best Algarve town  offers the perfect setting for romance. 

Begin your stay in this romantic Portugal destination at Casa Mãe , a boutique hotel that boasts a blend of traditional Portuguese architecture and modern design, providing a peaceful retreat just a short walk from Lagos’ vibrant centre.

Spend your days exploring the secluded coves of Ponta da Piedade by kayak , navigating through crystal-clear waters and discovering hidden beaches accessible only by water. This adventure offers couples a unique way to connect with nature and each other in a serene setting.

For an unforgettable dining experience, book a table at Orta , where the focus on fresh, local ingredients and inventive dishes complement the intimate atmosphere, making it ideal for a romantic evening.

Don’t miss a sunset stroll along Meia Praia, a vast stretch of golden sand where the setting sun paints the sky in vibrant colors, offering a picturesque end to your day. 

4. Douro Valley

The Douro Valley , Portugal’s famed wine region, is a haven for couples drawn to the romance of rolling vineyards and world-class wines. 

Embark on a journey through the valley aboard a traditional Rabelo boat , cruising along the Douro River with the vine-covered hills unfolding around you. This peaceful experience offers a picturesque backdrop for memorable moments together.

For an intimate vineyard experience, visit Quinta do Crasto , known for its stunning infinity pool overlooking the Douro and its exceptional range of wines. Here, you can enjoy a private tour and tasting, learning about the wine-making process while sampling some of the region’s finest exports.

Stay at Quinta da Pacheca , a wine estate turned boutique hotel, where you can sleep in barrel-shaped suites for a truly unique experience amidst the vineyards. This romantic setting not only promises tranquility but also immerses you in the heart of Portugal’s wine culture.

Coimbra, a city steeped in history and academic tradition, offers a romantic backdrop for couples who revel in culture and charm. 

A visit to the University of Coimbra is a must, where you can explore one of the oldest universities in continuous operation in the world. The stunning Joanina Library, with its opulent baroque decor, provides a setting so enchanting that it feels like stepping into another era. It is perfect for couples who appreciate the romance of history.

End your day with a visit to Fado ao Centro , a cozy venue dedicated to Coimbra’s unique style of Fado music. The intimate performances of this deeply emotional and traditional Portuguese music provide a soul-stirring backdrop for an evening spent together, capturing the romantic spirit of Coimbra. 

Nestled within ancient walls, Óbidos exudes a timeless charm that captivates couples at first sight. This medieval town is one of the most romantic places to visit in Portugal with its cobblestone streets and charming corners. 

For those seeking a cozy retreat, the Pousada Castelo de Óbidos offers enchanting accommodations within the castle walls, blending history with luxury.

Walking through Óbidos, the vibrant bougainvillea and whitewashed houses create a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls. The town is famous for its cherry liqueur, Ginjinha. This is best enjoyed in a chocolate cup from one of the local vendors, offering a sweet moment to share.

Don’t miss the chance to explore the town’s bookshops, including the unique Livraria de Santiago , housed in a former church, providing a quaint backdrop for discovering new reads together. 

Sintra , a town set amidst the lush Sintra Mountains on the Lisbon Coast, is known for its enchanting palaces and mystical gardens that seem to emerge straight from a fairy tale. Couples are drawn to the romantic ambiance of Pena Palace , with its vivid colors and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, offering a spectacular backdrop for memorable photos together in one of the top destinations in Portugal for couples.

Stay at the Tivoli Palácio de Seteais , an 18th-century palace turned luxury hotel, where elegance and history blend seamlessly, providing an opulent retreat after a day of exploration. 

A visit to the Quinta da Regaleira , with its gothic architecture, deep wells, and hidden tunnels, offers an adventure into the mystical. The gardens are perfect for leisurely walks, uncovering secret paths and romantic hideaways.

Cascais, once a quaint fishing village and now a sophisticated seaside escape, offers couples a blend of natural beauty and chic leisure. Stroll along the palm-framed promenade of Passeio Marítimo, which leads to the scenic Boca do Inferno. This is where the sea powerfully crashes against the cliffs, creating a dramatic natural spectacle ideal for witnessing together during sunset.

For a taste of culture, the Paula Rego House of Stories museum showcases the intriguing work of the renowned Portuguese painter in a building as captivating as the art it houses. It’s a spot where couples can share their interpretations and insights, adding depth to their visit.

Cascais’ historic centre, with its labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets, is filled with artisan shops and seafood restaurants. Dining here, especially at spots like Mar do Inferno , offers not just exquisite local dishes but also views over the Atlantic, making every meal a romantic event.

Evora, nestled in the heart of Alentejo , stands as a testament to Portugal’s rich history, offering couples a journey through time. This UNESCO World Heritage city is home to the Roman Temple of Evora, one of the best-preserved Roman structures on the Iberian Peninsula, providing a majestic backdrop for exploration and photography.

A visit to the Chapel of Bones, with its eerie yet fascinating interior adorned with human bones, offers a unique experience that is both thought-provoking and memorable. 

For a leisurely afternoon, the public garden Jardim Público de Évora offers a serene escape with its lush greenery and small ponds, perfect for a romantic picnic or a quiet stroll.

Evora’s historic centre, characterized by its cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses, is ideal for exploring hand in hand, discovering local crafts, and tasting regional specialties like the rich and savory Alentejo cuisine in traditional restaurants such as Taberna Típica Quarta-Feira , known for its authentic dishes and warm atmosphere.

Best Places to Go in Portugal for Couples Final Thoughts

Exploring the best places to visit in Portugal for couples unveils a plethora of romantic experiences. From the enchanting wine tours of Porto to the serene beaches of the Algarve and the cobblestone streets of Lisbon, Portugal is a haven for lovers. 

These spots promise memorable moments, blending cultural richness with natural beauty, ideal for couples looking to deepen their connection amidst Portugal’s scenic landscapes and vibrant cities.

About the author: Haley is the creator of the Portugal travel blog,  Where to Stay Portugal . She has been visiting Portugal since 2012 and has now called it her part-time home since 2021. Haley writes knowledgeable in-depth travel guides about the best places to stay in Portugal, providing first-hand experience for her readers.

The post 9 Best Places to Go in Portugal for Couples appeared first on Groups Are A Trip .