First things first, are you looking for the best time to visit Malta? The shoulder months–April to June (Spring) and September to mid-November (Autumn) showcase the island at its finest! If you’re wondering what that means, think:
- A historical and cultural hub for a capital city and a silent one, for that matter.
- Shimmering turquoise see-through waters.
- Dreamy, fiery sunsets.
- Dramatic rocky canyons.
Then there’s island-hopping, Europe’s best diving spots too and much (much) more. Malta is often described as: the baroque jewel of the Mediterranean. Honestly, for such a small archipelago, it’s brimming with surprises! So, if you’re planning a trip (or live here and are simply looking for ideas), this travel guide highlights the top 30 things to do suited for the mild weather, smaller crowds and unique charm of Malta during the shoulder months.
List of Contents
- Visit & Explore Valletta
- Visit The Three Cities
- Getting to Malta’s Three Cities
- Popeye Village (great for Kids & (Big Kids)
- St Peters Pool
- Malta’s Blue Grotto
- Mdina
- Visit Fontanella Tea Gardens
- Visit Palazzo Parisio
- Catch a Sunset
- Where to soak up the nightlife?
- Island Hop to Gozo
- Eat Pastizzi
- Visit Game of Thrones Locations
- Explore local villages
- Discover the Remains of the Fallen Azure Window
- Go Horseriding
- Buy Souvenirs
- See Prehistoric Sites at Megalithic Temples
- Visit Marsaxlokk Fish Market
- Explore Mosta (& The War Shelters)
- Festivals and Feasts
- Wine-Tasting
- Try Cocktails (& Enjoy Rooftop Views)
- Try Watersports
- Take Your Pick of Malta’s Beaches
- Take a Boat Trip
- Go on a Ghost Tour
- Enjoy a Day-Trip to Comino (Must-see Place to Visit
- Where to Stay in Malta (& Gozo)
- Map of Malta & Gozo
- Malta: Best to Know Before You Go
A Guide to Valletta
Valletta’s capital city has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage status. So expect plenty of historical landmarks to explore. But that’s not all. Valletta is an exciting city—bustling with bars, exhibitions, festivals, hotels, restaurants, and shopping spots for every taste and budget. What’s more, Valletta is fast becoming a gastronomical epicentre and a haven for foodies. Whether it’s dishing up vegan options, Michelin-star, local dishes or a place to stop and watch the world pass by…Valletta is a generous host. And with Malta Airport a short distance away, Valletta is shaping up as a destination, perfect for a weekend city break.
💡 Café Cordina—an iconic Maltese heirloom serving customers for over 185 years—makes for an iconic place to sit back, relax, and people-watch).
Exploring Valletta
Flanked by rows of traditional Maltese balconies, Valletta steals your attention with its bursts of colours and baroque architectural masterpieces.
Hailed as an “open-air museum,” the city incorporates over 300 historical monuments—including grand palazzos, restaurants, and the world’s biggest natural harbour.
Measuring just 0.61 square kilometres, this meticulously planned city dates to the 16th century. Over the centuries, the island was ruled by the Phoenicians, Arabs, French, and even the Brits.
And like all invaders, each was keen to leave their mark—resulting in a unique blend of cultures smattered around the city.
During the shoulder months, when the island is less crowded, and the weather is just fine, Valletta becomes a city that’s easy to explore on foot. Thanks to a grid system, even if you wander down winding alleys or the rollercoaster-like streets, the city’s iconic landmarks and stunning views will always guide you back!
Visit Malta’s Former Red-Light District
So here’s a curious fact: Once upon a time, Strait Street or Strada Stretta (in Maltese) was Malta’s red-light district.
This was the place to be for a wild boozy night out. Though lust-filled nights of debauchery are a thing of the past, you can still expect a great time here.
Strait Street is lined with lively bars, restaurants, live music, street art and festivals too.
Must-see Place to Visit: St John’s Co-Cathedral
It’s almost comical just how simple the outside of St John’s Co-Cathedral is. But wait until you see what’s inside!
Housing hundreds of marbled tombstones, works of art and 24 carats of gilded gold. St John’s Co-Cathedral is hailed as one of the prettiest churches in Europe. Built to rival the impressive interiors of Rome’s… prepare to be awed (once inside).
St John’s Cathedral is one of the best places to visit in Valletta, (if not the whole of Malta) and is a must.
Heeled shoes are not allowed 🚫 and you’ll have to cover up, if you’re not modestly dressed.
Entrance costs: €15.
Address: St John’s Co-Cathedral & Museum. Triq San Gwann ,
Valletta, VLT 1156
Other Must-See Places To Visit in Valletta:
- National Museum of Archaeology
- The Siege Bell Memorial
- Valletta Waterfront
- City Gate
- Grand Harbour
- Teatru Manoel
- National Museum of Fine Arts
- The Fort of St Elmo & The National War Museum
- Casa Rocca Piccola
- Merchant Street
- St Lucia Street
By the way, you can check things do to in Valletta for a detailed guide to the city. Or, are you’re looking for the best activities that won’t break the bank? Then check out free things to do in Valletta
*Prices range from €0-€10.00. Check the full price list here
Visit The Three Cities
For another city adventure, a visit to Birgu, Bormla and Senglea – (collectively known as the Three Cities) comes highly recommended.
Often overlooked in favour of Valletta or Mdina, (The) Three Cities is one of the best places to visit to discover Malta’s buried treasures…
Did you know Birgu was once Malta’s capital city?
A trip to The Three Cities, will feel like you have travelled back to the 16th century.
Wander around and marvel at all the architectural delights and get lost around a place that existed before the Knights of Malta.
Places to Visit & Things to Do in Three Cities
Explore the narrow streets of the Three Cities
Drink in views of St Elmo Breakwater Bridge
Enjoy pasta at Enchante Restaurant (Senglea)
Visit Gardjola Gardens
The Three Cities are said to “be the cradle of Malta’s history”. Each one of these are each known by more than one name.
Birgu
Birgu aka ‘Vittoriosa’ – the full name ‘Cittá Vittoriosa’, was given by the Knights of Malta, following their triumphant battle in the Great Siege of Malta in 1565. It translates to “Victorious City”. You have to admire how they kept things simple back then.
Bormla
Bormla aka ‘Cospicua’ derived its name from the prominent fortifications built around the city. Also, in keeping with the simple theme, the full name is ‘Citta Cospicua’ meaning The Conspicuous City.
Senglea
Senglea is a little more special because it has three names.
- Isla, meaning Island and was its original name.
- Isla was later renamed Senglea after Grand Master Claude de la Senglea who fortified the city before The Great Siege
- Citta Invicta was given after 1565’s battle meaning “Invincible City” (and in keeping with the simple theme).
Getting to Malta’s Three Cities
The Three Cities are easily accessible from Valletta either by a public bus or Valletta ferry services.
Costing €2.80 return/€1.50 single ticket.
Slightly biased here but the best way is by ferry from Valletta’s colourful waterfront. The route is picturesque and adds a touch of romance seeing the grand harbour from the sea. Talking of romance, take your Maltese experience up 10 notches by travelling there on a traditional wooden dgħajsa (boat).
A one-way ride costs €2 per person.
Out of the three cities, all have their distinct charm. However, Birgu tends to be the most popular.
Tip: If you want to see incredible views of Valletta from the waterfront, you will see better from Senglea.
Popeye Village (great for Kids & (Big Kids)
Easily one of the most popular spots in Malta, of course I couldn’t leave Popeye Village off the list.
You may not know this: But this is original set of the movie Popeye Village starring Robin Williams in the 1980 film.
Then again, looking given the powers of social media, chances are you have 😀
Popeye Village is also one of the best things to do in Malta if travelling with kids yes, but Popeye Village comes highly recommended for free spirits and people who don’t take themselves too seriously.
For €12 (€8/kids) you can enjoy the rides in the Popeye themed park, visit the museum and even feature in your own 100% improvised Popeye episode. So expect a day filled with lots of fun (and belly laughs).
You don’t have to go inside the theme park to enjoy the panoramic views and inviting waters offered by Anchor Bay.
Whatever you decide: do not miss a visit to this magical place..
just head North and you’ll find it in Mellieha.
Tip: Come for Popeye Village, stay for the fiery sunsets!
St Peters Pool
Located a short 10-minute ride away from Marsaxlokk (or a 20-minute scenic walk), St Peter’s Pool is a must-visit.
Known for its honey-coloured cliffs and azure crystal-clear waters, St Peter’s Pool is an aptly named natural pool and is surrounded by lush vegetation and pathways that snake through the Delimara tip.
There isn’t much in the way of beach facilities here, but that only adds to the appeal.
St Peter’s Pool is perfect for cliff-jumping into the brilliant blues that await you below.
Although summer is the optimal time to enjoy swimming, the picture-perfect scenery can be enjoyed all year round.
Tip: You can also ride up to St Peter’s Pool in a traditional Luzzu (boat) from Marsaxlokk. Also check out Kalanka Bay, a quieter and lesser-known bay on the way to St Peter’s Pool.
Go See Malta’s Blue Grotto
The iconic Blue Grotto is in Zurrieq, (South-West of the island) and one of the most beautiful places to visit in Malta.
Blue Grotto is a cave system consisting of several caves reachable by boat which you can explore during an amazing 20-minute boat tour.
Each are known by different names including: Cat’s Cave, Honeymoon Cave and Reflection Cave. But at 140 metres high, the most iconic Blue Grotto is the largest of them all.
A must-see no matter the time of the day. However, clear and sunny mornings are best.
Get there early (sunrise to midday) to see a magical spectacle:
the water awash with magnificent shades of the rainbow, created by the golden light from the rising sun reflecting against the pristine sandy bottom of the sea bed.
Fun fact for you: Blue Grotto is known in Maltese as Il-Hnejja and translates to “The Arch”. However, the name Blue Grotto stuck after a British soldier compared the blue hues seen here to Italy’s Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra).
It’s free to see the main Blue Grotto (from the viewpoint) Boat tour costs €8/€4 (for kids) You can buy tickets from the ticket booth.
Mdina
Like a pretty little princess in a tower far, far away is the truly enchanting Mdina. Watching over the Eastern side of the island, from atop a lush hill, the silent city looks like pages written in an ancient mythical story. However, in this tale you won’t want to be rescued.
As mentioned, Mdina was the former medieval capital of Malta and another popular (and beautiful place to visit).
However, the Knights of Malta were seafaring men who felt strategically Mdina left them defenceless. After winning the siege, the Knights of Malta moved their headquarters to Valletta.
The name Silent City stuck, because a literal silence fell upon the city. Today, there are less than 300 residents living there. Cars are off limits (with the exception of residents). Giving you complete freedom to explore the quiet and narrow streets, blissfully undistracted by the sounds of traffic.
Visit Fontanella Tea Gardens
Fontanella Tearooms is one of the most popular cafes in Malta and the perfect place for a pitstop after a day exploring Mdina.
They serve a range of sweet and savoury dishes, but what they’re most renowned for is a cake filled with sugar, spices and all things nice.
It does get busy during peak times, and you have to wait for a free table. But it is well worth the (short) wait!
What could be nicer than sitting in an ancient silent city with a cup of coffee, tea (or even wine) and a slice of your favourite cake?
Other than an incredible view of the eastern side of Malta!
Visit Palazzo Parisio
The serene gardens of Palazzo Parisio are considered one of the most peaceful and has been likened to a mini-Versailles.
Housing an orangery, fountain, grand statues, flowers and shrubs in a rainbow of colours.
Head inside to explore the palace too! Palazzo Parisio is privately owned by the Scicluna family and dates back to the 17th century. You will find this slice of the Versailles in Naxxar, Malta.
There are two restaurants inside. One is as casual (well, as enjoying high-tea in a palace can be), with the other fancier and offering fine dining.
Catch a Sunset
At 253 metres above sea level, Dingli Cliffs are the highest point of Malta.
Out in the distance, you’ll see an enigmatic-looking islet jutting out of the Mediterranean Sea.
That’s Flifla – an uninhabited (and protected) islet. The islet is home to an endemic lizard as well as rare plants.
You can walk along the edge of the cliffs and drink in the 360-degree views.
Other points of interest: The pretty chapel overlooking Dingli’s epic views is St. Mary Magdalene, built in 1646.
Perhaps it’s the fiery pops of colour that ignite the skies or the surrounding magical scenery, but the sunsets in Malta never seem to disappoint.
This is why one of the best things to do in Malta is to watch the sunset. I’ve seen countless sunsets from various locations over the islands, but Dingli takes the top spot.
There’s also Café del Mar in Qawra /Bugibba for a chill place to enjoy Malta’s incredible sunsets. Head here to pair sunsets, cocktails and chill music. Cafe Del Mar also boasts an enviable swimming pool.
Looking for other more beachy spots?
Check out this post for the best beaches to watch the sunset in Malta (Gozo, too).
Where to soak up the nightlife?
If you are up to enjoying the nightlife of Malta, you should head to Paceville, St. Julians. This part of Malta is highly touristy, mind. Their clubs and bars open until late most are free catering to all music tastes. Island favourites are:
- Havana – RnB, Hip Hop, Afro Beats
- Bar Native – Latino Music, Reggaeton
- Hugo’s Bar – Commercial Music
Other Places to Visit for a Night Out
- Bridge Bar, Valletta
- Gianpula, Rabat
- Uno, Ta’Qali
Island Hop to Gozo
Travel to Gozo by Ferry from Ċirkewwa
One of the best things about the Maltese archipelago is the opportunity to island hop! So, if you want to explore another destination… one just as beautiful, take a trip to Gozo.
Known as Malta’s (smaller), less populated and greener sister island, you can easily reach Gozo in 20-minutes by a (scenic) ferry ride from Ċirkewwa Ferry Terminal.
There is so much to see and do in Gozo, from the reddish beaches of Ramla Bay to discovering Greek mythological spots such as Tal-Mixta Cave.
Other unmissable places to visit include Ta’ Pinu Basilica Church, Dwejra Inland Sea, the Citadella and the Ggantija Temples.
Travelling to Gozo during the winter months? Then this post (How to Have the Best Day in Gozo) will help you make the most of your time there!
Eat Pastizzi
Pastizzi is a local puff pastry similar to what Cornish Pasties are to Cornwall.
Pasitizzis’ are available at every street kiosk and most cafes in Malta due to their popularity. That said, the best place to have one is from Crystal Palace in Rabat.
It’s pretty easy to find. Head to Rabat’s main square and just look for the queues.
Crystal Palace is open until the early hours of the morning.
Choose either a ricotta/ mushy pea stuffed pastizzi. Also, try local drinks Kinnie or Cisk and thank me later! 🙂
Visit Game of Thrones Locations
Spell-binding architecture and a drawbridge that ignites your imagination transporting you into an ancient world.
Think dragons, epic wars and other mythical tales.
There… it’s super easy to see why Mdina was chosen.
Hit HBO show Games of Thrones fans may recognise Mdina’s Mesquite Square, where Lord Baelish’s brothel was located. Also, Mdina’s infamous gate was the entrance to Kings Landing.
But did you know Mdina isn’t the only location in Malta (& Gozo) to feature in Games of Thrones?
There are several places both in Malta and Gozo! You can arrange a guided tour to see the locations featured.
Or if you prefer to visit yourself…
Some of other places to visit are Rabat St. Dominic Convent, San Lawrenz, Gozo, Fort Ricasoli in Valletta and Fort Manoel.
Explore local villages
Award-winning village Zabbar is small and less touristy than other places in Malta but still a great place to visit.
Zabbar is a traditional rural village in the South of the island and home to happy pops of colours and where you will find the coolest street in Malta.
In summer, Triq il-Kbira is lined with a thousand umbrellas in an array of bright, vibrant colours.
A wander through what has been dubbed “Umbrella Street is one of the best things to do in Malta.
Grab an ice cream in a nearby shop and enjoy. Honestly, you will find it impossible to feel unhappy here.
Other places to visit in Zabbar are: Zabbar Parish Church, Fort Leonardo and Zabbar Sanctuary Museum.
Looking for an authentic place to stay in Zabbar? Read a review of a local boutique guesthouse: The Mulberries.
Discover the Remains of the Fallen Azure Window
Azure Window (also known as the Dwejra Window) was an iconic natural rock formation shaped like an arch. The small rocky part was a great chill spot to watch the sunset.
Sadly, after a storm in 2017, the arch collapsed.
But it isn’t all bad; you can still discover the remains by going for a dive from Dwejra inland sea or… a Luzzu Boat Ride.
Go Horseriding
If you want to try something a little more unique whilst in Malta, I have just the thing for you…
Horse riding at Golden Bay. Sunsets from this spot are just pure magic.
You can ride on a horse for 90 minutes from Golden Bay, Mellieha, where the course takes you through the coastal areas at sunset, overlooking Malta’s sister island Gozo and…
The crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
Sounds magical, right?
Price: €35 per person
Buy Souvenirs
Not only can you support local businesses, but you can buy authentic souvenirs at Ta’ Qali Crafts Village. Most of the things here have been handcrafted by Maltese locals.
Discover hand-blown glass, ceramics, filigree jewellery lace, sculptors and much, much more.
Once you have finished shopping can recharge your batteries at one of the cafes/eateries here.
See Prehistoric Sites at Megalithic Temples
A trip to Malta is incomplete if you skip its Megalithic Temples. They were constructed between 3600 BC-700 BC making them the oldest free-standing structures in the world.
The temples to see in Malta and Gozo are:
- Ggantija (which means giant in Maltese),
- Hagar Qim,
- Mnajdra
- Skorba
- Ta’ Hagrat
- Tarxien
Visit Marsaxlokk Fish Market
Marsaxlokk is a vibrant fishing village in the south of Malta. And it becomes ever more characterful on Sundays.
Renowned for producing generations of fishermen, Marsaxlokk is characterised by the bright multicoloured Luzzu (traditional boats) painted with the eye of Horus. This tradition can be traced back to Phoenician times and said to ward off evil spirits.
There are plenty of places to visit: St Peters Pools, Kalanka Bay, and Delimara (to name but a few). However, the best thing to do on a Sunday is to take a fragrant, colourful walk-through Marsaxlokk market.
If you want a bargain, it’s best to get to the market early; locals and tourists alike travel from all over the island.
Once you’re done gawking at colourful goods or listening to haggling hawkers, you can also try the fresh seafood dishes at Marsaxlokk’s restaurants.
Explore Mosta Church (& The War Shelters)
Fun facts: Malta’s ‘miracle’ church has the 3rd largest unsupported dome in the world. On 9th April 1942, a 500lb bomb fell through the dome and landed on the floor where a 300 strong congregation was awaiting mass. Some people ran, whilst others stayed and prayed. Miraculously… the bomb didn’t go off.
Roman Catholic church Rotunda dominates much of Mosta and is an architectural masterpiece. Built-in neoclassical style during the 18th century, the design resembles the Pantheon in Rome.
The impressive unsupported dome is one of the largest in the world. (Bearing in mind this “tiny” island is only 316km2).
Mosta Dome or Rotunda of Mosta (as it’s also known), makes a great place to visit and learn more about the history of Malta during WWII as well as its miraculous tale:
You can see a replica of the 200kg bomb in the church’s vestry. Admission to the church is: €2.
For €5, you can also visit the war shelter below the church to experience life during WWII.
Enjoy Festivals and Feasts
One of the best things to do in Malta is attend festivals. Many are held on the Maltese islands. Such as Annie Mac’s Lost & Found, Isle of MTV and Tomorrowland.
However, … If you want to immerse yourself in Maltas’ local culture, attend local village festas.
Popular local festivals include the L-Imnarja Summer Folk Festival, Feast of St Paul’s Shipwreck, Birgu Light Festival and Delicata Wine Festival.
Popular Malta Festivals include:
- Valletta Baroque Festival
- Teaming classical music with Vallettas’ historical baroque venues. Festivalgoers are treated to magnificent musical performances. Listen to the sounds of Bach from the St John’s Cathedral, the archaeological museum, to Europe’s oldest working theatre – Teatru Manoel.
- Earth Garden
- Annual local music festival with plenty of good vibes! Head to Ta Qali for a weekend of non-mainstream musical fun. Spread over five stages catering to different musical tastes from techno to reggae. Expect plenty of fun and lots of dancing.
- Malta Arts Festival
- One for the art-lovers is the Malta Arts Festival, which occurs annually in June/July. Hundreds of local and international performers gather together to display their artistic skills.
Go Wine-Tasting
Wine-loving travellers will want to head to Malta’s wineries and vineyards for a sample of a beefy red or a crisp white.
Malta may be lesser known for wine production than neighbouring countries. However, Malta’s climate and the richness of the soil make Malta a perfect place for wine production.
For an intoxicating experience, spend a day wine tasting. A tour with Marsovin Cellars takes you on a journey through the business timeline.
Learn about the wine production process here and explore the ageing cellars.
You can also taste wine samples of that beefy red or crisp white you’ve been longing for.
At the end of the tour, you’ll get the chance to buy bottles to take back with you.
Try Cocktails (& Enjoy Rooftop Views)
Malta makes for a memorable experience at sea level, so picture this:
You, ten stories high, gazing out from a rooftop terrace blessed with interrupted views of the island’s captivating charm.
If you’re ready to toast your best life as you watch day turn to dusk, then rooftop bars and/or restaurants may be one of the best things to do.
Head to Valetta’s Embassy Hotel for a glorious mix of elegance, sundown and 360-degree views of Valletta’s epic skyline.
Or, if you prefer to dine on the rooftop of Lounge Bar 360, take a dip 19 floors high in Skybar’s pool or simply chill out in Dura Bar.
Check out the best rooftop bars in Malta for more awesome rooftop spots and how to get there.
Try Watersports
Wouldn’t it be strange if one of the best things to do in Malta didn’t include water sport? Malta is surrounded by the most incredible Caribbean-looking coastline.
And the waters here in Malta are famous for all kinds of water sports, including surfing, windsurfing, paragliding, water skiing, jet skiing, and swimming.
Furthermore, did you know Malta is famous for having the best diving spots in Europe?
Some of the best places to visit are:
- Blue Hole, Gozo Ċirkewwa
- Ghar LapsiWied-Iz-Zurrieq (close to Blue Grotto)
- Xlendi Bay Cave, Gozo
- Wied-il-Ghasri, Gozo
With its dramatic rugged coastlines and bath-like seawaters, is it any wonder Maltese beaches are among the best in Europe?
Take Your Pick of Beaches
There are all types of beaches in Malta. From sandy ones (mainly in the North) to natural pools, like St Peters Pools. Whether you prefer rocky (beaches) pebbly ones or the feel of sand between your toes…
Take a Boat Trip
A great way to get around Malta’s beautiful coastline is by the iconic techni-coloured Luzzu.
Offering a perfect local experience, Luzzu boat trips is the way to go should you wish to explore caves such as the beautiful Blue Grotto, Dwejra’s Inland Sea (or other attractions dotted all over the Maltese Islands).
They hold up to 20 people at a time and offer half/full-day trips.
The half-day trips go on for 4 hours while the full-day trips go on for 7 hours. You can decide the route to go, but it depends on the departure location and the package you choose.
Take a Ghost Tour
If you are into all things creepy and spooky, take the ghost tour of Valletta, costing €15.
⚠️if you dare⚠️
Over two hours, you will be taken to haunted places accompanied by ghost stories.
During the tour, you will also learn about the gory deaths and executions in Valletta.
Because you can’t have a 450-year-old city without amassing a few scary tales, now, can you?
Enjoy a Day-Trip to Comino (Must-see Place to Visit)
A visit to Malta is incomplete without heading to one of the best places to visit in Malta—Comino, especially during the quieter shoulder months .
Comino is an idyllic island home to pristine beaches, secret coves, underwater caves (that lead to what feels like another world), cliffs with endless views of wonder and sparkling crystalline waters.
If you’re looking for the perfect day trip, then check out this Comino travel guide for tips on things to do, see and more.
Where to Stay in Malta (& Gozo)
You are spoilt for choice with places to stay in Malta & Gozo and for every type of budget. Choose from large resorts to small boutiques hotels. If you’re looking for stunning yet authentic Airbnb stays in Malta & Gozo, then make sure you get a nose through the post linked, plus my 4 faves for the perfect base in some of Malta’s prettiest villages.
Map of Malta & Gozo
Here is a map of Malta with all the amazing places marked for you (in blue).
Malta: Best to Know Before You Go
- Malta is a (Southern) European that enjoys a Mediterranean climate.
- English and Maltese are Malta’s official languages.
- Currency is the Euro (€)
- Malta is part of the Schengen Area, (check to see if you require a Malta Tourist Visa + how to apply)
- Driving is on the left.
- There are over 80 buses available if you opt to use public transport to get around the Maltese Islands (totally do-able)
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