best tourist places malta

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

May 12, 2022 • 6 min read

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

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

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

Experience the roar of Valletta's famous cannons

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

Explore Malta's Three Cities in an electric buggy

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

Be challenged by contemporary art in Valletta

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

Learn about "Fortress Malta" at the Lascaris War Rooms

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

Hike the clifftop trails of southern Gozo

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

Discover family-friendly science at Esplora

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

Swoon at classic cars

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

Relax in Mdina's il-Foss

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

Ease into the weekend with alfresco jazz

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

Kayak around Gozo's coastline

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

Harness Maltese ingredients at a cookery school

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

Dive into the amazing Blue Hole

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

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

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

Experience living history at Gozo's ancient salt pans

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

Meet the locals at Malta National Aquarium

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

Climb high for Gozo's best views

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

Make a difference with BirdLife Malta

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

Tour Gozo on a Segway or e-bike

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

You might also like: Malta and Gozo's best beaches    We swapped our homes for life at sea: the families living on the Mediterranean    20 of Europe's most stunning beaches to explore in 2022

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17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Malta

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Valletta: Malta's Elegant Capital

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Burial Street, Paola, Island of Malta

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Neolithic Temples Street, Tarxien, Island of Malta

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Triq Hagar Qim, Qrendi QRD 2501

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

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

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

Address: Triq Hagar Qim, Qrendi QRD 2502

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More on Malta

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

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

You want to visit Malta for your next trip?

Great choice!

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

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

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

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

Let’s find out!

1. Valletta

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

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

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

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

They will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

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

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

Here are the best places to visit in Valletta:

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

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

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

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

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

The Manoel Theatre , one of the oldest in Europe.

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

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

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

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

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

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

This guided visit needs to be booked here:

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

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

Simply click the button below to book it:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The best guided visits of Gozo from Malta

My favourite: guided quad bike tours of Gozo!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4) Private VIP boat trip to Comino and Gozo (3h): Organized by I Malta Boat Trips, it’s simply the best private boat tour to Comino and the Blue Lagoon. Josef, your skipper, will make sure you will have an amazing moment at sea.

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

In addition to the half day boat trip, Josef also offers a full day boat tour (6h).

And you know the best?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8) Take the boat from Mgarr harbour.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Quad bike rental in Gozo

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

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

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

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

• Quad bike tour from Malta

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The best dive sites Malta:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To visit the 3 Cities, you can also opt for a guided visit. The best one also includes a part about Maltese wine history and free wine tasting!

Keep your 3 Cities boat ticket!

The Barrakka Lift is always free when going down. However, you usually have to pay a small fee when going up, except in one case: when you come from the 3 Cities. So just show your boat ticket at the ticket office to get a free ride.

Mdina is the former capital of Malta . During the Middle-Ages (before the Order of Malta), the government and other administrations were located there.

It was called “Citta Notabile”, the noble city . When the Order arrived, knights decided that they needed to be close to their ships and Valletta became the new capital .

Also called “the Silent City”, Mdina is a fortified city loved by tourists for its charm and quiet streets. The city is home to many historical monuments:

• St. Paul’s Cathedral (the oldest cathedral in Malta) and its museum
• the 18th century Vilhena Palace
• other palaces on Villegaignon Street, such as the Palazzo Falson .

After exploring the city, you can go down to see the old moat which have been turned into a garden. From there you’ll be able to see the impressive ramparts from the bottom.

Voyage Tips Advice We went to Mdina early in the morning and it was a good idea! Starting from 10am, buses loaded with tourist started to flow in the city. Try to come before 9:30am if you want to avoid all the tourists.

To learn everything about Mdina history, a guided visit is your best option!

• Guided visit: Mdina on foot: Meeting point is at Mdina main gate
• Private guided visit: Mdina on foot: Same as above, but just for your group! The date and time of this private tour are flexible according to your preferences.
• Guided visit by night, “all included”: in addition to the visit to Mdina, this guided visit by night also includes “The Malta Experience”, a 5D show retracing the history of Malta in Valletta and a visit to the city of Mosta. Transportation from your hotel is also incluided.

Rabat is another place to visit during your holidays in Malta. It’s located right next to Mdina: once you exit the fortified city you are already in Rabat!

The best things to see in Rabat:

• St. Paul’s Church and Grotto, where Paul the Apostle sought refuge after their boat sank on the island
• St. Paul’s Catacombs, the city’s necropolis for 500 years
• Sy. Agatha’s Catacombs, where Saint Agatha hid during her exile from Sicily
• Domvs Romana , a Roman-era house turned into a museum.

Sliema and St Julian’s are the main touristic cities in Malta.

You’ll find there plenty of hotels, restaurants, clubs, casinos and shopping malls . They are perfect destinations if you like busy cities and to party. If you enjoy quiet places however, that might not be the best places for you to go.

In Sliema, you can enjoy a good meal in the numerous seafront restaurants offering unique views over Valletta .

There is also a nice promenade going from St Julian’s to Sliema and even Valletta along the sea . It’s probably the most crowded area of the island, especially during summer nights.

The best thing to do in Malta on a Sunday is, without a doubt, going to the fish market in Marsaxlokk .

Marsaxlokk is an authentic fishing port , with colored fishing boats called luzzu. Every Sunday takes place a traditional fish market. Don’t be fooled by the name though, you will find more things than just fish at that market, like souvenirs for example.

This market is huge and usually crowded , probably because souvenirs are cheaper there than in Valletta.

You’ll find many bars and restaurants along the port, perfect for lunch break. Most of them serve fish but you can also find pizzas and sandwiches. As always in Malta, the price is very decent.

Voyage Tips Advice If you’re coming to Marsaxlokk on market day by car , don’t get too close to the port: streets are very narrow and it’s virtually impossible to find parking. It’s better to park further away and walk a bit.

If you don’t have a car, y ou can also go on an organized day trip to Marsaxlokk . It includes transportation from your hotel, a guide and a visit to the Blue Grotto (If you want to go inside, you will need to purchase an additionnal boat trip to enter the cave)

You need to book this tour here:

Close to Marsaxlokk , St Peter’s Pool is another must-see attraction in Malta.

Dug by erosion, this natural pool is a great swimming spot.

Kids in particular love this beach, they challenge themselves to jump from the small cliff rather than actually swim. In fact, the only ways to get in the water is by jumping or using ladders.

Please also note that there is very limited shaded areas , so it might not be a good place to go with young children.

If you keep walking past St Peter’s Pool to the right , you’ll get to a flatter area with more natural pools carved into the rocks. Another great spot to take a dip.

St Peter’s Pool is 10min driving away from Marsaxlokk . It’s easy to find and there are 2 free parking lots .

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Mosta is famous for its monumental church , whose design was inspired by the Pantheon of Rome .

It was built in 1833 thanks to funds raised by the residents, and is one of the most beautiful church in Malta.

It’s said that the dome is one of the biggest in Europe, whether it’s the 3rd or the 4th biggest dome is still a matter of debate. It’s so big that you can see it from many places on the island.

The church is also famous for what happened there in 1942: a German bomb was dropped over it, pierced the dome and fell in the church during the mass, without detonating. Some even says it was a miracle!

As i told you in the paragraph about Mdina, the visit to the monumental church of Mosta is included in this night tour of Malta.

Blue Grotto is located 2km away from Zurrieq town.

It got its name and reputation from the intense blue color of the water in the cave.

You can see it from above at a sightseeing location just outside the city. You can also go to the small Wied Iz Zurrieq port, 2min further away by car, and take a 30 min boat tour .

Remember to check the weather conditions beforehand , there won’t be any tour if the sea is too stormy.

Wied Iz Zurrieq also has bars and restaurants, as well as a spot to go swimming.

Voyage Tips Advice To get the best light, you should go to Blue Grotto in the morning: that’s when the sun shines into it.

North off Blue Grotto , the Dingli cliffs are worth stopping by.

Located 250m above sea level , Dingli is the highest point in Malta. It’s a nice place to walk around (be careful not to get to close to the cliff) and enjoy the views. Sunsets there are a photographer’s dream !

Voyage Tips - Advice If you don’t have a lot of time and want to discover the best of Malta in a day , you should opt for a private tour around the island!

There are 2 kinds of tours , and you can personnalize them in order to organize the excursion that suits you!

First, there is the Malta private guided tour. You can book it here:

The 2nd possibility is to do a private day trip around Malta with a driver , but without a guide (thus more affordable):

In both cases, the team in charge of the organization will help you to organize an unforgettable day!

The Red Tower , or Saint Agatha’s Tower is located in Marfa , 5min driving from Mellieha .

Built in 1649 among other towers between Valletta and Gozo , it was used to watch the coasts and protect merchants from pirates’ attacks. It could host up to fifty soldiers and had 5 cannons. It’s named after the color of its walls.

You can visit the Red Tower for 2€. It’s small, but the tour is worth it thanks to the amazing view from the top of the tower . From there, you can see the White Tower , Saint Mary’s Tower (on Comino island) and Lippija Tower.

Several megalithic temples can be found in Malta and Gozo, some of them even being UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They were all built between the 4th and 3th century BCE.

Here is a list of temples to visit:

• Tarxien temples located in the city of Tarxien
• Hagar Qim temples , next to the city of Qrendi, in South Malta
• Mnajdra temples, only 500m away from Hagar Qim
• Ggantija temples on Gozo island

If you plan to visit Malta’s Megalithic Temples and want to learn more about their history, you can opt for the guided visit!

It includes transportation from your hotel as well as the visit of 3 sites: Ghar Dalam Cave and its museum, Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples.

Here are the best activities to do in Malta

• Quad bike: you can find all the details just below, #14 of this guide
• Cross country Segway: the best Segway tours are on Gozo island
• Horse riding
• Hiking: I tell you more about it at the #21 of this guide
• Climbing: There are 300+ spots spread over 12 breathtaking sites on Gozo island

No Malta holidays can be complete without a good beach day ! Malta, Gozo or Comino islands all features some nice beaches and coves:

• Mellieha Bay: shallow water and wide stretch of sand, great for families
• Pretty Bay: a real kids’ paradise with its shallow water and playgrounds
• Paradise Bay: close to the Gozo ferry, it’s a nice beach but quite touristy
• Golden Bay: a vast beach, very touristy, lots of water sports options there
• Ghajn Tuffieha Bay: Go down the stairs to reach this very beautiful spot. Don’t miss the surprising rock formations on the left side of the beach
• Gejna Bay: a decent size sand beach, it’s especially nice to walk along the sea there
• Ramla Bay in Gozo, a vast beach with ocher sand, the ultimate family beach
• San Blas Bay in Gozo, a lovely sandy cove, though only reachable on foot. Going back will be your little workout of the day!
• Blue Lagoon and Santa Maria Bay in Comino, more details about it below.

If you enjoy swimming, you can go on a snorkeling session in Gozo with Sam during your stay.

He will show you one of the best spots of the island , hidden from the usual tourist spots!

He offers 2 snorkeling tours. You will need to book it by clicking here.

If it’s not available, you can opt for one of these 2 snorkelling tours that are also great:

• Snorkelling trip around Gozo of 2h30
• Snorkelling trip to the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon in Comino – Departure from North Malta

Malta is the perfect place to enjoy water sports and activities at reasonable prices.

To book, click on the orange links:

• Water Skiing
• Wakeboarding
• Parasailing
• Windsurfing course

Voyage Tips - Advice In my opinion, the best is to enjoy all these activities in Gozo. It’s where the scenery is the most beautiful!

A boat rental in Malta is a great way to discover the Maltese coast from another point of view!

The best is to rent it in Gozo (where the coast is the most beautifl!). You can then easily go explore around Gozo and Comino islands.

In Malta, the great thing is that you can rent a boat up to 90HP without boat license.

For those who have a boat licence, there are also boats with over 90HP.

To hire a boat in Gozo, you just need to call me at +356 7920 1451 (phone or WhatsApp).

To discover best secret spots of Malta , you should go hiking!

In the North of Malta , I recommend you the walk that starts from Selmun Palace (towards Mellieha) and goes down to several coves before going along the seafront to Mistra Bay.

In the south of Malta , you can also start from Delimara / St Peter’s Pool and walk along the coast to St Thomas Bay. The views of the cliffs are magnificent.

You may no know it, but Malta was the filming location for several key events of the Game of Thrones TV show!

So if you like this TV show, you should definitely book the Game of Thrones filming locations guided tour.

Your guides for the day will be Malcolm and his team: they all have been participating to the filming and will be able to tell you many anecdotes about your favorite show!

You can book it right here:

23. The best of Malta’s Nightlife

You’re going on a trip to Malta and you like to party?

Between the famous “Boat Parties” (I’ll tell you more about them below) and the great bars and clubs, you will for sure find great places to party in Malta.

As I want you to make the most of the Maltese nightlife, here is the list of the best bars and nightclubs on the island.

You want to have a drink? You should head there!

• The Thirsty Barber: to drink excellent cocktails to the sound of live music and in a great 1920s decor
• The Dubliner Irish Pub: for a relaxed atmosphere and beer lovers
• Hugo’s Terrace: you will find large bay windows with sea view and a good atmosphere in this bar located in Paceville. It also features a nice rooftop!

The most famous nightclubs of Malta are all located in Paceville, one of St Julian’s district.

• The Havana Club, one of the biggest Nightclubs in Malta. Free entrance!
• The Footloose, located close to the Havana
• The Bar Native a very popular place, you should go there if you enjoy latino music.

Another place I would recommend you is the Café del Mar. This outdoor club is located in Qawra, by the sea, close to Malta Aquarium.

During the day, you can rent a sunbed and enjoy the swimming pool, café and restaurant . In the evening, their pool parties are amazing!

Voyage Tips - Advice To discover the best of Malta’s nightlife with people from around the world who love to party, you should really do a Pub Crawl!

The best one is organized by Lucca, and you will see, you will have a crazy night!

You need to book it right here:

In Malta, you will have the opportunity to party on a boat at a “Boat Party”

The concept is simple:

You leave the port of Sliema at 7pm towards the north of the island for the sunset, then enjoy an open bar evening (whisky, vodka, rum, tequila, gin, beer and soft drinks) with 200 other party lovers from all over the world!

You need to book this epic party here:

The 3 best things to do in Malta with children

Are you visiting Malta with children and they’re getting tired of museums and city strolls? Here are 3 kids-friendly alternative activities:

Popeye Village is located in the North-Western part of Malta, close to Mellieha .

This village was entirely built to serve as a set for the movie “Popeye” , shot in 1980 with Robin Williams as the lead actor.

To built this gigantic set, trees were imported from Canada to build the houses, a road to the bay was created, along with a breakwater to protect the set. Once the shooting was over, they decided to keep everything intact.

Nowadays, it’s an amusement park. Kids will be able to discover characters from the movie and even act in a custom made one! The park also features boat rides, stores, trampolines and restaurants.

For more information about Popeye Village, you can visit the Official website .

While you’re on the island, why not show your children what’s around them by going to the Malta National Aquarium ?

Built in 2013, it’s located right next to Saint Paul’s Bay , in the city of Qawra .

The visit is great and very lively. You will discover all kind of sea animals from the Mediterranean and Malta region , as well as fish from the Pacific and Indian Oceans . The best part is probably the underwater tunnel with sharks and rays swimming above you. There is also an area with reptiles and amphibians.

More details are available on the Aquarium official website .

It’s a very unknown fact, but one of the first Playmobil manufacturing factory was actually in Malta , and it’s still running today.

The Playmobil Fun Park features a vast outdoor playground with Playmobil statutes , and an indoor area with all the Playmobil you can imagine to play with . Thousands of these tiny figurines are available for your kids.

You can also visit the factory and see the manufacturing process, but check the visiting hours beforehand because it’s fairly limited. The place is open to all children aged 5 years old and up.

There is also, of course, a Playmobile shop. If you’re a collector, the “Maltese Knight” Playmobil is only sold in this store!

For more information about tickets and how to get there, click here .

Where to stay in Malta: My best tips + Itineraries

When going to Malta, it’s essential to carefully choose your accommodation to avoid driving around too much.

I have made for you this simple guide of the best hotels in my favorite cities. You will see, it will be easy to find the best places to stay during your trip to Malta!

The list is specifically arranged so you can easily draft a nice itinerary from it . If you want detailed itineraries depending on the duration of your stay, you should have a look at my articles:

• Itinerary: 2-3 Days in Malta
• Itinerary: 4-5 Days in Malta
• Itinerary: 1 Week in Malta
• Itinerary: 10 Days in Malta

It’s always a good idea to start your trip by visiting Valletta, because the city is close to the airport. 1 or 2 days are enough to visit the city. That way you can also save money on you car rental by renting a car only after you’ve been in Valletta.

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

The city of Mellieha , located on top of a hill, is a great place to stay at when you’re visiting the Northern part of the island (Mdina, Rabat, Gneja beaches, Ghajn Tuffieha and Golden Bay, the Red Tower, Popeye Village, Comino etc.). It’s best to stay there for 2-3 nights to explore the region.

That’s also where the Ferry to Gozo island leave from , and it’s the next stage of our itinerary!

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

Gozo island is rather small: getting a bed and breakfast in Victoria, Qala or Nadur is a good idea (especially if you don’t have a car). Avoid Xlendi and Marsalform: these half modern beach towns aren’t really nice. Gozo island is full of stunning spots, so I recommend you to stay for 2 or 3 nights .

• Bambina guesthouse : Guesthouse located in Xaghra, 10min walking from the beach. Modern with a zen vibe double room starting from 75€/night. Best features: amazing house with a swimming pool and a great view over Gozo, friendly staff, direct access to the beach, very good value. A great choice in Gozo for its excellent value for money.
• Casa Gemelli Boutique Guesthouse : Charming hotel located in Victoria, the capital of Gozo. Fully renovated double room starting from 90€/night, breakfast included. Decoration is a mix of modern and traditional. Best features: central location, close to all the bus stops, homemade breakfast, friendly and helpful staff.
• The Duke Boutique Hostel : Located in the center of Victoria. Very spacious and comfortable double room starting from 100€/night, breakfast included. Best features: location, great bedding, rooftop terrace view, great breakfast with many options, great staff, some rooms have a hot tub on the balcony.
• Kempiski Hôtel San Lawrenz : Luxury hotel located in San Lawrenz, close to Inland Sea ad Ta’Pinu Basilica. Spacious and modern double room with balcony starting from 130€/night. Breakfast for an additional 25€. Best features: amazing view, huge swimming pools, indoor pool, free parking lot, outstanding breakfast, nice spa. It’s simply the best hotel in Gozo .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Zurrieq is a great place for accommodation for two reasons; the city is close to the airport, and it’s a great starting point to go explore the South-West of Malta (Blue Grotto, Dingli cliffs, Marsaxlokk, St Peter’s pool etc.)

An ideal location to stay for 1-2 nights before flying back home !

• Luxury Room in the South Malta : Bed and Breakfast located in Zurrieq, 3km away from the airport. Big and modern double room starting from 60€/night. Best features: spacious room, very helpful owners, next to the airport et Blue Grotto.

Marsaxlokk is also a good place to end your trip before flying back:

• Port View Guesthouse : Guesthouse located in Marsaxlokk, a lovely fishermen village with a popular Sunday market. Modern and comfortable double room starting from 70€/night, breakfast included. Best features: next to the sea, good breakfast and excellent service.
• Harbour Lodge : Located right next to the fishing port. Quiet and comfortable double room starting from 85€/night, breakfast included. Best features: quiet location, free parking lot, free shuttle to the airport.

This tourist destination North of Valletta is perfect for you if you’re looking for brand hotels, bars, casinos and clubs.

Here are the best hotels there:

• Sliema Marina Hotel : ideally located on the waterfront, only a few meters away from the ferry to Valletta. Nicely decorated and spacious double room starting from 60€/night, breakfast for an additional 7€. Best features: great value, rooftop terrace, hot tub.
• Palazzo Violetta : located in Sliema, within walking distance of the beach. Studio apartment with kitchen amenities, modern, spacious and comfortable, starting from 100€/night, breakfast for an additional 10€. Best features: swimming pool, good location, comfortable rooms. My favorite for its amazing value for money!
• The Victoria Hotel : located in Sliema, 5min walking from the beachfront. Comfortable double room starting from 130€/night, breakfast included. Best features: rooftop swimming with sceniv view, very good breakfast, high quality restaurant for dinner.

Other activities to do in Malta

Are you up for more activities during your stay in Malta?

No problem: Here you will find the complete list, with many ideas that you will certainly enjoy. There is definitely something for you!

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

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

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

So, here are my 4 favorites!

1) Going on a boat trip to Comino Blue Lagoon

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

2) Visiting Gozo by Quad bike or Jeep

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

3) Diving in Malta and Gozo

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

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

• Jet Ski Tour (From Malta or Gozo) – Follow your instructor on an epic 1h tour around Comino and discover the sea caves!

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

Boat trips to the Blue Lagoon

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

Visiting Gozo from Malta

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

Guided visits and excursions in Malta

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

Other activities to enjoy in Malta

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

Partying in Malta

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

• Go on a pub crawl and make friends from all other the world – Click here!
• Dance all night long in one of Paceville nightclubs
• Opt for a boat party with an open bar .
• Private 3,5 hour boat trip to Gozo and Comino
• Private VIP boat trip to Comino and Gozo full day (the best!)
• How to reach Comino by shuttle boat from Mgarr (Gozo harbour)
• How to reach Comino by shuttle boat from Hondoq
• Shuttle to Comino + visit to the sea caves.
• Visit of Gozo by jeep + lunch + boat trip of 3 hours to Comino

Other activities / Guided tours

• 2h or full day hike with a guide (Gozo),  to discover the hidden gems of Gozo, away from mass tourism.
• Quad bike guided tour of Gozo (full day) / Also available for a half day
• Tourist bus tour (Hop-on Hop-off) .

Nautical activities

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

Below is the most complete tourist map of Malta . I recommend you to download it on your phone and keep it with you at all time. You can also get a paper version at the tourist information offices.

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

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

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

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

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

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

So, what do you plan to visit during your trip to Malta?

Malta travel Guides

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

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

The 20 Best Things to Do in Malta : The ultimate bucket list!

• Comino Blue Lagoon: the definitive guide
• Gozo: The 10 must-see attractions of the island
• Valletta: The 10 best things to do
• Quad biking in Gozo (Malta): all my best tips to enjoy this activity
• Diving in Malta: the definitive guide – Try dive, exploration diving and PADI Open Water course
• Where to stay in Malta? – My guide to the best hotels for a perfect stay in Malta

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

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

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Discussion 13 comments.

Hi There are three of us ladies that want to come and explore during the day, relax at the beach and participate in some activities. We only coming through for 10 days (trying to push for 14 days).

22 September 2019 depart and arrive in Malta 23 September and depart again on the 4th October 2019.

We would like to have beach parties (if possible) and good nightlife for us older ladies in our late thirties and middle forties.

For the activities and places to visit, you can have a look at the 10 days itinerary i have written. It will give you a good idea of how you can organize your days!

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

About the beaches, the best ones are:

Sandy beaches:

– Ghajn Tuffieha Bay – Gnejna Bay – Ramla Bay in Gozo – Santa Marijia beach in Comino

– Delimara BayBajia ta’ Mgiebah, near Mellieha – Hondoq Bay in Gozo – Blue Lagoon in Comino

For the night life, it’s all around St Julian, Paceville and Sliema.

In Malta, there are also boat parties, but not many beach parties i think.

Enjoy your trip!

This was so helpful!! I only had a short time in Malta and am a solo traveler, and the very specific descriptions for the 2 and 3-day tours were extremely helpful! Thank you for this page!

Thanks a lot for your kind message, I am very glad my 2-3 days itinerary in Malta helped you to plan your stay.

Have a great day, and maybe see you soon on the blog for another destination 🙂

Your detailed guide for Malta has helped me organize my 5 day trip to Malta so easily! Thank you!

I have only one question. We’re staying in Tal-Pieta and we’d like to scuba dive. Do you have any suggestions on how to book it? Should we book it online or can we find something when we arrive? We might not rent a car for more than a day so we might also need transport to the scuba diving sites.

Hello Stella,

I am glad my guide of Malta is helping you to plan your trip!

Unfortunately, I have no scuba diving school to recommend in Malta, as I did scuba diving in Gozo. The underwater is a lot nicer there in my opinion, so in case you want to do it in Gozo too, you should contact Franco from Blue Waters Dive cove: +356 795 368 74 For me, it’s the best diving center of the island! And if you are in Gozo, you can take the bus to get there, and they will then take you to the diving spot in Jeep.

Enjoy your trip to Malta!

Hi Vincent,

Your blog site has been a treasure trove full of information in planning my month in Sicily.

I’ve decided to add a side trip to Malta for 4-5 nights. I’m a bit challenged locating ferry website . I have read ferry accessible from Catania or Pozzallo( with additional bus transport, since turning in my car before depart) .

2 questions do I need any covid testing to go onto island, already vaccinated? Does the ferry only run on certain days ? I wanted to be back in Sicily by sat 18,of September for tues 21/9 departure to USA .

ThankYou again for all you do, Peace, JoAnn

Thanks again!

Here are the 2 websites for the ferries: – From Pozzallo: Virtu Ferries – From Augusta: Ponte Ferries You have the timetables, the fares and you can book online.

To come to Malta (at the moment), you need a PCR test or a valid vaccination certificate, and to fill in some documents. The only accepted vaccination certificates are: – Malta Vaccine Certificate – United Kingdom Vaccination Confirmation of Two Doses Received: NHS Vaccine Certificate (Digital app version or paper certificate) – EU Digital Covid Certificate (Vaccination Certificate – Two Doses Received).

So if you have been vaccinated in the US, Malta doesn’t yet accept this certificate and you will need to have a PCR test.

As everything is changing very often at the moment, the best thing to do is to look at this official website quite often: Malta Airport . Here are all the information you need to come to Malta. This is for arrivals by plane but it is exactly the same for the ferry. You also have all the links to the documents to be filled in before coming.

If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to ask me. Have a great day!

Very informative site My question is the USA CDC has Malta at a level 4 Do not visit right now 8/26/2021 What is happening in Malta ? Can tourist visit Are sites open ? Do you know of the USA CDC will lift the do not travel ban soon?

Thank you! I’m glad that my article about the best things to do in Malta is helping you to prepare your trip.

Malta is the first country in the world for the vaccination, with rate at over 90%. There are very few Covid cases per day. Tourists from the USA can come provided they have the United States CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card with an EMA-approved vaccine, verified digitally through the VeriFLY app. You can find the info here: Travelling to Malta .

In Malta, everything is open. You can visit all the places I am talking about and do all the activities (boat trip, diving etc…). You just have to wear the mask indoors.

No one can know when the US will lift the travel ban unfortunately (😅)

It’s unbelievable how great this article is! Many many thanks for it! It was so helpful and accurate!!

Kind regards.

THANK YOU!!

very nice article . Helped me a loot with organizing my trip!!

Huge thanksssssssssss 😉

Thanks Peter! I’m glad my article with the best things to do in Malta will help you prepare for your stay.

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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