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Malta is a beautiful Mediterranean island full of history, picturesque towns, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in historic cities, breathtaking landscapes, or crystal-clear waters, Malta offers a range of unforgettable experiences for every traveller. In this guide, we’ll cover the must-visit spots across Malta, as well as useful tips for planning your trip.

Things to do

Valletta

Birgu

Mdina

Marsaxlokk

Popeye Village

Comino

Gozo

Valletta

Valletta, Malta’s capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Europe’s smallest yet most historically significant cities. Known for its stunning Baroque architecture, narrow, hilly streets, and colourful window boxes, Valletta is a must-visit for anyone travelling to Malta.

Take a leisurely stroll through Valletta’s iconic streets, such as Old Mint Street (first photo), Triq San Gwann (second photo), St. Ursula Street (third photo), and St. Lucia’s Street. These charming streets are filled with history and lined with traditional Maltese balconies, giving the city its distinctive character.

Both the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens are beautiful places to watch the world go by. The Upper Barrakka Gardens offer amazing views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. It can be accessed via the Barrakka Lift for just 1 EUR. The Lower Barrakka Gardens are quieter but just as scenic. At noon every day, a 500-year-old tradition takes place. Military officials fire cannons to commemorate the navy and tell locals the time of day.

Tip: Take a ride on a traditional Maltese dgħajsa gondola for just 2 EUR per person. The gondolas offer a unique perspective of Valletta from the water, connecting it to the Three Cities and Sliema.

Restaurant tips:

• San Paolo Naufrago: A great spot for pizza with a lovely atmosphere. Make sure to book in advance as it gets busy.
• Papannis Restaurant: This gem offers delicious Mediterranean food and is perfect for a relaxed meal in the heart of Valletta.
• Focacceria Dal Pani: If you’re in the mood for a quick bite, grab a freshly made focaccia at this local favourite. Ideal for a tasty snack on the go.

Birgu

Birgu, also known as Vittoriosa, is one of Malta’s charming Three Cities, alongside Cospicua and Senglea. Before the capital was moved to Valletta, Birgu held that title, making it a city steeped in history. Rich in maritime heritage, it offers stunning harbour views, historic buildings, and narrow, winding streets that feel like a journey back in time.

Once in Birgu, take your time wandering through its medieval streets, soaking in the tranquil, peaceful atmosphere. One of my personal favourites? Triq Il-Palazz Ta’ L-Isqof. Afterwards, make your way to the picturesque waterfront, where you can enjoy views of Valletta across the water. The area is lined with yachts, and there’s no shortage of cosy cafés and restaurants where you can relax with a drink or meal by the sea.

If you’re up for some history, Fort St. Angelo is a must-visit. This iconic landmark has played a key role in Malta’s defence for centuries, particularly during the Great Siege of 1565. Explore the fort and immerse yourself in its fascinating past.

Mdina

Mdina, also known as the Silent City, is a stunning fortified town in central Malta. You may even recognise Mdina if you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, as its narrow, medieval streets were featured in the show. Once Malta’s capital (before it moved to Birgu), Mdina now feels like a step back in time with its ancient buildings and tranquil atmosphere.

Mdina is small enough to explore on foot, but be sure to wear comfortable shoes as its cobbled streets can be uneven. Take your time strolling through the peaceful alleyways, where you’ll find hidden courtyards and impressive architecture.

One of the main highlights is St. Paul’s Cathedral, a stunning Baroque masterpiece dating back to the 12th century. This beautiful cathedral is a must-see for anyone interested in Malta’s religious and architectural history. If you’re intrigued by the darker side of history, the Mdina Dungeons offer a fascinating yet eerie look at Malta’s more sinister past.

Tips:

• Just outside Mdina’s walls, the neighbouring town of Rabat is rich in historical sites like St. Paul’s Grotto and the Catacombs. It’s an easy addition to your visit.
• For a snack break, stop by Is-Serkin Crystal Palace Bar for a traditional Maltese pastizzi, a local favourite. They have varieties with peas, ricotta, or chicken, the chicken is our favourite!
• To avoid the heat and crowds, visit Mdina early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter, more enjoyable experience.

Marsaxlokk

Marsaxlokk is a traditional fishing village on the southeastern coast of Malta, known for its brightly painted luzzu boats and fish market. The luzzu boats are a unique part of the village’s charm, featuring the distinctive eye symbol on the front: an ancient Egyptian symbol believed to protect fishermen while at sea.

Take a peaceful stroll along Marsaxlokk’s harbour, where the colourful boats create a beautiful scene, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect place to soak in the local culture.

If you’re visiting Marsaxlokk on a Sunday, the fish market is a must-see. It’s the ideal spot to get a feel for the village’s fishing heritage, with stalls offering fresh seafood, local produce, and handmade items. Even if you’re not in the market for fish, the lively atmosphere is worth experiencing.

Tip: After your time in Marsaxlokk, take a short drive to St. Peter’s Pool, a natural swimming spot with crystal-clear waters. It’s one of the best places to enjoy a refreshing swim in a stunning coastal setting.

Popeye Village

Originally built as the film set for the 1980 Popeye musical, starring Robin Williams, Popeye Village has since transformed into a fun and quirky tourist attraction.

Stroll through the vibrant wooden houses and immerse yourself in the playful, cartoon-like atmosphere. In addition to exploring the village, you can enjoy boat rides, swimming areas, and various water activities, making it an ideal spot for a day of fun by the sea.

Although there’s an entrance fee to access the park, the viewpoint overlooking the village is free and offers an incredible photo opportunity, definitely a must-see on your trip!

Comino Island

Comino Island is the smallest of Malta’s islands and is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, especially at the famous Blue Lagoon. Whether you’re looking to swim, snorkel, or simply relax, Comino offers some of the best spots to cool off and enjoy the natural beauty of Malta.

• Blue Lagoon: One of Malta’s most iconic spots, known for its incredibly clear, blue waters. It’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just unwinding by the shore. As it’s a popular destination, it will get crowded during peak times! So plan your visit early in the morning or around sunset for a more peaceful experience.
• Crystal Lagoon: Less crowded than the Blue Lagoon, the Crystal Lagoon is a quieter spot for a swim. While it’s rockier and the waters are not quite as intensely blue, its remote feel adds to its charm, making it a special place to visit if you prefer a more tranquil atmosphere.
• Santa Maria Caves: These caves are a well-known spot for snorkelling and provide a unique opportunity to see a variety of marine life. The Santa Maria Caves are a must for those wanting to explore underwater Malta.

Visit By Ferry

Most ferries will take you to Comino from either Cirkewwa (Malta) or Mgarr (Gozo). We visited Comino Island from Gozo with Ebsons Ferry, which also made quick stops at the stunning Crystal Lagoon and Santa Maria Caves on the return journey.

Rent Your Own Boat

Alternatively, you can rent your own boat and explore at your own pace, as we did with Blue Waves Watersports. Renting a boat gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace, though keep in mind that weather conditions can make the ride more adventurous, and you can’t anchor everywhere.

Boat Tour

Another great option is to join a boat tour, either during the day or at sunset. We opted for a sunset tour, which was a more relaxed experience, and the perfect way to unwind as the sun sets over the Mediterranean.

The Island of Gozo

Gozo, Malta’s second-largest island, offers a peaceful retreat from the busier main island. Known for its rough landscapes, historical sites, and beautiful beaches, Gozo is the perfect spot for a more relaxed experience, with excellent snorkelling and stunning coastal views.

A visit to Gozo wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Citadel in Victoria, the island’s historical heart. Climb to the top for panoramic views, and then take time to wander through the charming streets of Victoria. The island also boasts unique landmarks such as the salt pans near Xwejni Bay, which have been used for harvesting sea salt for centuries.

Read more about Gozo in my guide

How To Visit Gozo

The most common way to reach Gozo is by ferry from Ċirkewwa (Malta) to Mġarr (Gozo). The ferry ride takes just 25 minutes, and you can bring your car on board. For passengers, a return ticket costs 4.65 EUR, and for those travelling with a car, a return ticket is 15.70 EUR. You don’t need to pay at your departure in Malta, the tickets are purchased at the Gozo harbour. For the latest fares and schedule, check the Gozo Channel website.

If you’re without a car, you can also take a fast ferry from Valletta to Gozo, which takes 45 minutes. This service is for passengers only, and a return ticket costs 15 EUR at the counter or 12 EUR if booked online. For up-to-date information, visit the Gozo Highspeed website.

Malta Map

Make sure to save this map to explore the highlights of Malta more easily!

How to Visit Malta

The main airport in Malta is Malta International Airport (MLA), located near Valletta. This airport connects Malta to many major European cities, making it the primary entry point for international visitors.

Alternatively, if you’re travelling by car, you can take a ferry from Italy or Sicily directly to Malta.

Getting Around Malta

While Malta has an efficient bus system, the best way to explore the island is by renting a car. This allows you the flexibility to explore the countryside, visit remote beaches, and discover hidden gems at your own pace.

Malta has a reliable bus service that covers most major towns and tourist destinations.

Uber and Bolt are widely available across Malta and are a convenient option for short trips around the island.

When to Visit Malta

Malta enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate, making it a great year-round destination. However, the best times to visit are in spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller, allowing you to enjoy the island’s beauty without the hustle and bustle of summer.

Where to Stay in Malta

Malta offers a range of accommodation options, from lively city stays to quieter retreats.

• Valletta: Stay in the capital city for easy access to Malta’s historical sites, vibrant nightlife, and public transport. Valletta is a great option for those without a car, wanting to enjoy a city trip.
• Sliema: For a blend of restaurants, bars, rocky beaches, and waterfront views, Sliema is a great option. It’s generally more affordable than Valletta but still just a quick 15-minute ferry ride away, or you can take a local gondola to get across. We stayed at Ta’ Tereza In Manwel Dimech which was great!
• St. Julian’s: This is the go-to spot for anyone looking to enjoy both the beach and the city’s nightlife. It’s is known for its lively atmosphere, sandy beaches, and vibrant club scene.
• Birgu: If you’re after a quieter and more peaceful setting, Birgu is a charming choice with its tranquil streets and rich history. Plus, you can easily reach Valletta by ferry or the traditional gondola boat.
• Gozo: For those seeking a more rural and laid-back experience, Gozo is the ideal escape. Staying in Victoria gives you easy access to the island’s main attractions, scenic countryside, and beautiful coastlines. We spent a few nights in a beautifully restored historic house turned into Airbnb, which gave the whole experience an authentic touch!
• If you have an early or late flight, Talbot & Bons Bed & Breakfast is a fantastic option! We stayed here for our early departure, and it was just right.