If you’re looking for the next destination to add to your Euro-summer bucket list, look no further than Malta.
Often overshadowed by destinations like Sicily or Ibiza, Malta is one of the Mediterraneanโs most underrated spots. This small but endlessly fascinating country blends thousands of years of history with crystal-clear swimming spots, nightlife, and charming seaside towns.
In just a few days you can explore ancient temples older than the pyramids of Egypt, wander through the historic streets of Valletta, swim in the turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon, and enjoy fresh seafood along the harbor in Marsaxlokk.
In this guide, Iโll cover everything you need to plan the perfect trip, including the best things to do, where to stay, top restaurants, travel tips, and so much more.
Table of Contents
Why Visit Malta?
Malta is one of the smallest but most historically important islands in the world. Throughout its vast history, Malta has been ruled by Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Normans, the Knights of St. John, the French, and the British before gaining independence in 1964.
Due to its location, Malta has historically served as a strategic military base for global powers. Visitors today can even tour war rooms and tunnels used as Britain’s military headquarters during World War II.
Malta also has incredible cathedrals with works by Caravaggio and baroque architecture that will take your breath away. Located 30 minutes from the capital of Valletta, the Mdina (or Silent City) is a key tourist spot used as a filming location for Game of Thrones.
With other picturesque tourist sites like the Blue Lagoon, Marsaxlokk, Blue Grotto, and the sister islands of Gozo and Comino, this country is a perfect blend of history, walkable cities, adventure activities, beautiful beaches, and clear blue water.
How Much Time to Spend in Malta
Malta is a small island — on average it takes about an hour to drive from one point to the other. For this reason, you can typically hit all the main sites between 3-5 days max depending on your pace.
Here’s how I would recommend splitting up a 4 day trip:
Day 1: Valletta & Three Cities
Day 2: Boat tour to Blue Lagoon, Gozo & Comino
Day 3: Mdina, Hgar Qim, and Blue Grotto
Day 4: Marsaxlokk & St. Peter’s Pool
Best Time to Visit Malta
For the best experience, I recommend visiting Malta in May, September or October. During this time, you can swim in the crystal clear waters, take boat tours, and participate in activities that are closed during the winter. These months also fall in the shoulder seasons, meaning there will be less tourists than in the peak summer months.
With that being said, I visited in March and had a great time. It was too cold to swim and the weather was a bit windy and cold, but we were still able to do (almost) everything we wanted. If I were to go again, I would book in the shoulder season to get better weather.
Where to Stay in Malta
Valletta
Valletta is the capital city of Malta and has the most to do. From Valletta, you can easily get to all tourist attractions outside the city by taking a taxi, Bolt, water ferry, or even a vintage bus.
Sliema
Although Sliema has less tourist activities and things to do, it’s a great place to stay due to its lower prices, proximity to Valletta, and access to ferries and boat tours.
Many of the boat tours leave from Sliema, so it’s convenient to stay there if you have lots of water activities planned. It’s also a quick 10 minute water taxi or ferry ride to Valletta, and gives you sweeping views of the capital.
I stayed at the Barcelรณ Fortina in Sliema and can’t recommend it enough. The location, service, and amenities were all incredible.
Best Things to Do in Malta
Here are the tourist sites and activities that are worth adding to your Malta itinerary:
The Three Cities
The three towns across Grand Harbour from Valletta include Vittoriosa (Birgu), Senglea (Isla), and Cospicula (Bormla). Each city has a name in Maltese, and a name given to it by the Knights of St. John.
I recommend wandering the streets of the Three Cities, marveling at the historic buildings and architecture, and grabbing lunch by the port in Senglea at either il-Hnejja or Novita. Call and book a table on the terrace in advance!
You can easily navigate between the Three Cities and Valletta via ferry or water taxi.
St. John’s Co-Cathedral
Most people don’t know that Caravaggio was exiled from Rome and went to Malta, where some of his most impressive works can be found in St. John’s Co-Cathedral. The most notable of these is The Beheading of St. John the Baptist, his only signed work.
The church was built after the Great Siege in 1565 to demonstrate the power and wealth of the Order of St. John in their newly appointed capital of Valletta (previous capital was Mdina). Caravaggio was knighted in the Order of St. John upon his arrival in Malta, but was soon cast out again due to his violent behavior.
Upper & Lower Barrakka Gardens
There are two public gardens bearing similar names in Valletta — the Upper Barrakka and Lower Barrakka Gardens.
The Upper Barrakka Gardens boast incredible views of the Grand Harbour and views of the Saluting Battery that fire twice a day (noon and 4pm).
The smaller but still impressive Lower Barrakka Gardens are located just a short walk away from the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta. Here you’ll also find views of the Grand Harbour and a gorgeous monument dedicated to Sir Alexander Ball, the first British Governor of Malta.
Triton Fountain
The Triton fountain sits just outside the City Gate, and is an example of the more modern landmarks completed by 1960. This is a great stop as you walk into Valletta to do some sightseeing.
Lascaris War Rooms
These are the underground tunnels and war rooms used by the British Military to defend Malta during World War II, and then for subsequent missions through the 1960s, including Operation Husky (the invasion of Sicily). Ever since its opening to the public in 2009, the space is now a museum that you can visit and learn about the deep history of military conflict in the Mediterranean and beyond.
Mdina
Mdina is an ancient medieval town and the former capital city of Malta. This city dates back over 2,000 years, with major rebuilding during the Arab period around the 9th century. Now inhabited by only a small number of people, most of whom are descendants of nobility, the city is for pedestrians and locals only.
The best way to spend your time in Mdina is by wandering the narrow streets, bopping into museums like the Mdina Dungeon Museum, and grabbing a bite at the Fontanella Tea Garden.
If you’re a Game of Thrones fan like I am, you can also visit filming sites like Mesquita Square and imagine yourself in the show!
Marsaxlokk
This charming fishing village is famous for its colorful boats and Sunday market. While there isn’t a ton to do here, I recommend visiting for the Sunday market, enjoying lunch by the port, and grabbing a water taxi or Bolt over to St. Peter’s Pool for a swim.
St. Peter’s Pool
This is a famous spot for cliff jumping and swimming in crystal clear waters in Malta! If you’re here during the summer, take an afternoon to come swimming here and enjoy the beautiful waters.
St. Julian’s
Located within walking distance from Sliema, St. Julian’s is a town in Malta known for its nightlife and party scene. If that’s not your scene, it’s still a great spot to walk around for lunch before heading back to the tourist center.
ฤฆaฤกar Qim & Mnajdra
ฤฆaฤกar Qim (pronounced “ha-jar-eem”) and Mnajdra are megalithic temples that date back to 3600-3200 BC, making them among the most ancient religious sites on Earth.
When you visit, plan to spend at least one hour exploring the ancient ruins and the archeological park they sit on. There are nature trails and monuments along the way that are worth exploring!
Blue Grotto
Just a 30 minute walk or short bus ride from ฤฆaฤกar Qim & Mnajdra is the Blue Grotto. Here you can hop on a โฌ10 boat and take a tour through the grotto. There’s a small town with bars, restaurants and gift shops where you can stop for lunch, making it a great way to spend an afternoon in the sun.
Note that the boat schedule will depend on the weather (i.e. no tours during windy or rainy weather), and there is no need to book in advance. Just show up early and grab your spot in line!
Gozo, Comino & Blue Lagoon
Most tours will take you to the sister islands of Gozo and Comino on the same trip. Gozo is a small island known for its medieval Cittadella, located just outside the capital of Rabat. There are several other things to do and see in Gozo, but if you book a combined tour of Comino, you’ll likely just have enough time to explore the Cittadella.
After Gozo, stop in Comino to visit the famous Blue Lagoon. Here you can stop for a few hours of swimming and enjoy the Instagram-famous pineapple cocktails before heading back to Valletta!
Best Bars & Restaurants in Malta
Malta has a ton of good bars and restaurants worth exploring. Their cuisine is a unique mix of Italian, British, and fresh seafood, making it easy to find a crowd-pleasing restaurant.
Here are the favorites from my trip:
Word of Mouth (Sliema)
This is a super vibey brunch spot in Sliema that has amazing food and a fun atmosphere. If you’re staying in Sliema, this is a great first stop before you venture out for the day.
Pro-tip – use the disco restroom for a fun surprise!
N’duja Osteria (Valletta)
This was one of the best meals of the trip, and was recommended to me by a friend who lives in Malta. Here they have a small menu with authentic Italian favorites. The interior is super cute, but they do also have a few patio tables if you reserve in advance.
The Skyroom (Sliema)
This is a nice spot for a special occasion or a date night dinner. This rooftop restaurant has amazing views and even better food. Try their scallop appetizer and fresh catch of the day for some of the best seafood you’ll ever have!
Hammetts’s Monastik (Sliema)
Hammett’s Monastik is a common happy hour spot for locals, and has an amazing dinner and drinks menu. Get a spot on their terrace for views of Valletta and share a few plates! We had the octopus, favetta dip, au gratin potatoes, croquetas, and more. Everything we had was a 10/10, so you can’t go wrong!
Officine del Pesce (Valletta)
We were on the hunt for the best vongole in Malta, and this place delivered! Sit outside on the street for people watching and good food right in the center of Valletta.
Il-Hnejja (Senglea)
I can’t rave about this spot enough! Located in the Three Cities, this restaurant somehow matches the incredible views with even more incredible seafood and pasta. Our favorite dish was the lobster tagliatelle, which was a highlight of the trip. Book a table on the terrace for lunch and thank me later!
Jungle Joy (Sliema)
This is a slightly more lowkey and local option, but we were blown away by their thai food and cocktails. We ordered the spring rolls, fried rice and pad thai which were all incredible. They also have a nice patio which is perfect for a happy hour beverage!
La Luz (Sliema)
It’s easy to miss this tiny cocktail bar, but don’t be fooled by its size. This bar has really good Mexican-inspired cocktails and a funky interior, perfect to take a break from the sun for a few hours and hang out.
The Embassy Rooftop (Valletta)
The Embassy Hotel has a rooftop bar with unmatched views of St. Paul’s Cathedral. Reserve a table on the terrace for a sunset cocktail!
Ellul Wine & Spirits (Valletta)
This was a local recommendation that won our hearts. This is a bar that has live music every day from 5-11pm, and an amazing two for โฌ10 beer and cocktails happy hour deal from 3-8pm. We had espresso martinis before dinner and they were delicious!
The Bridge Bar (Valletta)
This place is loved by both locals and tourists alike – and for good reason! The Bridge Bar is tucked away with scenic views of the Grand Harbour and famous for its outdoor tables on the downward sloped street. They have live music starting around 9pm every Friday, so I recommend going early to grab your table.
Best Tours in Malta
Malta is a small island, and it’s easy to pack a lot in a short amount of time. To fill out your trip and get the most of your experience, I recommend taking a boat tour or guided trip to Mdina!
How Much to Budget for Malta
To help you budget for your trip, here’s the average cost of daily activities in Malta:
| Expense Type | Cost |
| Hotel (mid-range) | โฌ100-120 per night |
| Transportation (Taxi, Bolt, Ferry) | โฌ2.50 (ferry) – โฌ40 (taxi across island) |
| Coffee | โฌ3-8 |
| Lunch | โฌ18-25 per person |
| Dinner | โฌ20-50+ per person |
| Museum Entry | โฌ10-20+ per person |
| Drinks | โฌ8-10+ per person |
| Full Day Boat Tour | โฌ35-45+ per person |
| Total Daily Budget | โฌ196.5-318+ per person (โฌ96.5-198 excluding hotel price) |
I would plan to spend around โฌ100 a day in Malta between meals, excursions, and transportation.
Malta Travel Tips
I learned a few things throughout my time in Malta that I wish I knew beforehand. Here are a few good tips to know before you go:
- In Malta they use the UK outlet plug, so bring adapters. They also drive on the left!
- Try the local dish, pastizzi! You’ll see stands all around the island, but the local favorite is Jeff’s Pastizzeria.
- The cute traditional water taxi between Sliema, Valletta, and the Three Cities is only โฌ0.50 more than the larger ferry, and a fun experience. Try it out when you get a chance!
- Bring cash for water taxis and tips. Although it isn’t required, you should tip about 10% on meals. Taking about โฌ100 in cash should last you for a 3-4 day trip.
- Use Bolt instead of Uber or taxi – it’s fast, reliable, and cheap.
- You’ll get around well with English. Even if people have a strong accent or imperfect English, you’ll be able to get around just fine.
- There’s a vintage bus that takes you between Sliema, St. Julian’s, Mdina, and Valletta. It takes longer than a taxi, but it’s a fun (and cheap) alternative to Bolt between these locations!
- The tap water is safe to drink, but has a strong taste. I recommend getting a reusable water bottle with a filter if that’s in your budget!
- Bring a hat and sunscreen! Even in the winter, the sun is strong here and can leave you with a burn if you’re not careful.
FAQs About Malta Travel
Is Malta worth visiting?
Yes โ Malta is absolutely worth visiting. Despite its small size, the island offers an incredible mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors can explore ancient temples older than the pyramids, wander through the historic streets of Valletta, swim in turquoise waters at the Blue Lagoon, and enjoy fresh seafood in fishing villages like Marsaxlokk. Malta is also easy to explore in just a few days, making it perfect for a short Mediterranean getaway.
How many days do you need in Malta?
Most travelers need 3โ5 days in Malta to see the main highlights. This gives you enough time to explore Valletta, visit Mdina, take a boat tour to Gozo and Comino, and see places like the Blue Grotto and Marsaxlokk. If you want a slower pace or extra beach time, you could easily extend your trip to a week.
What is the best time to visit Malta?
The best time to visit Malta is May, June, September, or October. During these shoulder-season months, the weather is warm enough for swimming and boat tours, but the crowds are smaller than in peak summer. July and August are the hottest and busiest months, while winter is quieter but often too cool for swimming.
Is Malta expensive to visit?
Malta is generally more affordable than many Mediterranean destinations like Ibiza or the Amalfi Coast. Budget travelers can expect to spend around โฌ80โโฌ120 per day excluding accommodation, while mid-range travelers may spend โฌ150โโฌ250 per day. Food, public transportation, and attractions are relatively affordable compared to other European island destinations.
Do you need a car in Malta?
No โ most travelers do not need a car in Malta. The island is small and easy to get around using Bolt rides, taxis, ferries, and buses. Many popular areas like Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julianโs are very walkable, and tours often provide transportation to major attractions like Mdina or the Blue Grotto.
Where should you stay in Malta?
The best places to stay in Malta are Valletta or Sliema. Valletta is ideal if you want to stay in the historic capital and be close to major attractions, museums, and restaurants. Sliema is often more affordable and has excellent access to ferries, boat tours, and waterfront restaurants while still being just a short ride from Valletta.
Can you drink tap water in Malta?
Yes, tap water in Malta is safe to drink, but it has a strong mineral taste due to the desalination process used on the island. Many visitors prefer buying bottled water or using a filtered reusable water bottle during their trip.
What language do people speak in Malta?
Malta has two official languages: Maltese and English. English is widely spoken across the island, making it very easy for travelers to communicate with locals, read signs, and navigate restaurants or transportation.
FREE Interactive Map of Malta
Final Thoughts
Despite its small size, Malta packs a punch.
From exploring the golden limestone streets of Valletta to swimming in the turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon or watching the colorful boats bob in the harbor of Marsaxlokk, every corner of the island offers something unique.
In my opinion, what makes Malta such a great destination is how easy it is to experience a little bit of everything in a short amount of time. You can have a mix of relaxation and exploring in a quick 4-day trip, and leave feeling extremely fulfilled.
Whether you’re planning a quick Mediterranean getaway or adding Malta to a longer Europe trip, this island is a destination that deserves a spot on your itinerary.
Once you visit, itโs easy to see why so many travelers fall in love with Malta. If you’ve been before, let me know what other tips or insights you have in the comments!
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