Malta
Locavy ratings
Party
4.5/5
Sightseeing
4.5/5
Relaxation
Top 20
5/5
Value
3.5/5
Transport Links
3/5
Experiences
Top 20
5/5
Party
4.5/5
Sightseeing
4.5/5
Relaxation
Top 20
5/5
Value
3.5/5
Transport Links
3/5
Experiences
Top 20
5/5
At a glance
Malta is the perfect summer holiday destination, offering a mix of exciting activities, stunning beaches, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
Party
While Malta may not be known for its nightlife, St. Julian’s is the island’s hotspot for party-goers, offering a lively scene with a variety of bars, pubs, and nightclubs along St. George’s Road.
Sightseeing
Malta offers a variety of stunning sights, from the charming cobbled streets of Valletta to the ancient Ġgantija Temples and the panoramic coastal views from Ta’ Dmejrek.
Relaxation
Malta is a perfect destination for relaxation, offering beautiful white sandy beaches and the famous Blue Lagoon, ideal for unwinding and enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
Value
Malta isn’t known for being a budget destination, but tourists can save by booking accommodation in advance and purchasing the Malta Multi Pass for discounted access to attractions and public transport.
Transport links
Fly
Train
Drive
Fly
Malta’s airport is 9km south of the capital, with flights across Europe. To reach major towns, tourists can take buses or taxis to any part of the island.
Train
Malta does not have a train station, so transportation on the island primarily relies on buses, taxis, and other road-based options.
Drive
Hiring a car is recommended in Malta. The island’s small size makes it easy to explore remote beaches and villages best accessed by car.
Experiences
Malta offers a diverse range of experiences, from relaxing at the stunning Blue Lagoon and diving in some of Europe’s top underwater spots, to exploring ancient sites like the Ġgantija Temples, one of the world’s oldest free-standing structures.
Best Things To Do
1. Explore the Historic Valletta
Valletta, the capital city of Malta, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering charming cobbled streets, stunning architecture, and a rich history. It’s the ideal place to shop, dine, and immerse yourself in Maltese culture.
Spend at least half a day exploring Valletta to fully enjoy its attractions. Don’t miss the Upper Barracca Gardens for great views.
2. Relax at the Blue Lagoon
Located on the small island of Comino, the Blue Lagoon boasts crystal-clear waters, making it one of Malta’s most popular spots for swimming and relaxing by the sea. The scenery is perfect for a day trip.
Arrive early, as it can get crowded, especially in the summer months.
3. Visit Malta’s Beautiful Beaches
Malta is known for its pristine beaches, with white sands and turquoise waters. Golden Bay, Mellieħa Bay, and Ghadira Bay are perfect for a relaxing day at the beach.
Mellieħa Bay has calm waters ideal for families, while Golden Bay offers great beach bars.
4. Take a Scenic Boat Trip
Enjoy Malta’s coastline on a boat tour, from relaxing catamaran rides to dinner cruises that offer beautiful sunset views. It’s one of the best ways to see the island from the sea.
Book a boat trip in advance during peak season to secure your spot.
5. Discover the Charm of Gozo
Gozo, Malta’s sister island, offers a peaceful atmosphere, scenic landscapes, and charming villages. Highlights include the historic Citadel in Victoria and the famous Azure Window (now collapsed but still scenic).
A day trip is enough to explore the highlights, but stay overnight for a slower-paced experience.
6. Scuba Dive in Malta’s Crystal Waters
Known for some of Europe’s best diving spots, Malta offers diverse underwater experiences, from shipwrecks like the UM El Faroud to natural wonders like the Blue Hole.
Malta’s diving schools offer courses for all levels, so even beginners can dive safely.
7. Explore Malta’s Rich Museums
Malta has a wealth of museums, with the National Museum of Archaeology showcasing ancient artifacts and The Grand Master’s Palace offering a glimpse into Malta’s noble history.
The National Museum of Archaeology is ideal for history enthusiasts—plan a visit in the morning to avoid crowds.
8. Hike Malta’s Scenic Trails
Though not famous for hiking, Malta offers stunning coastal and inland trails. Ta’ Dmejrek, the island’s highest point, provides spectacular panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
Wear sturdy shoes, as some trails can be rocky and challenging, especially along the coast.
9. Visit the Ġgantija Temples
One of the oldest free-standing structures in the world, the Ġgantija Temples on Gozo date back over 5,000 years. They offer a fascinating look into Malta’s prehistoric past.
Guided tours provide great insight into the history and myths surrounding these ancient temples.
10. Explore Marsaxlokk Fishing Village
Marsaxlokk is a picturesque fishing village known for its colorful boats and local fish market. It’s a charming spot to experience authentic Maltese culture.
Visit on Sunday mornings for the full experience of the fish market and local crafts.
1. Explore the Historic Valletta
Valletta, the capital city of Malta, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering charming cobbled streets, stunning architecture, and a rich history. It’s the ideal place to shop, dine, and immerse yourself in Maltese culture.
Spend at least half a day exploring Valletta to fully enjoy its attractions. Don’t miss the Upper Barracca Gardens for great views.
2. Relax at the Blue Lagoon
Located on the small island of Comino, the Blue Lagoon boasts crystal-clear waters, making it one of Malta’s most popular spots for swimming and relaxing by the sea. The scenery is perfect for a day trip.
Arrive early, as it can get crowded, especially in the summer months.
3. Visit Malta’s Beautiful Beaches
Malta is known for its pristine beaches, with white sands and turquoise waters. Golden Bay, Mellieħa Bay, and Ghadira Bay are perfect for a relaxing day at the beach.
Mellieħa Bay has calm waters ideal for families, while Golden Bay offers great beach bars.
4. Take a Scenic Boat Trip
Enjoy Malta’s coastline on a boat tour, from relaxing catamaran rides to dinner cruises that offer beautiful sunset views. It’s one of the best ways to see the island from the sea.
Book a boat trip in advance during peak season to secure your spot.
5. Discover the Charm of Gozo
Gozo, Malta’s sister island, offers a peaceful atmosphere, scenic landscapes, and charming villages. Highlights include the historic Citadel in Victoria and the famous Azure Window (now collapsed but still scenic).
A day trip is enough to explore the highlights, but stay overnight for a slower-paced experience.
6. Scuba Dive in Malta’s Crystal Waters
Known for some of Europe’s best diving spots, Malta offers diverse underwater experiences, from shipwrecks like the UM El Faroud to natural wonders like the Blue Hole.
Malta’s diving schools offer courses for all levels, so even beginners can dive safely.
7. Explore Malta’s Rich Museums
Malta has a wealth of museums, with the National Museum of Archaeology showcasing ancient artifacts and The Grand Master’s Palace offering a glimpse into Malta’s noble history.
The National Museum of Archaeology is ideal for history enthusiasts—plan a visit in the morning to avoid crowds.
8. Hike Malta’s Scenic Trails
Though not famous for hiking, Malta offers stunning coastal and inland trails. Ta’ Dmejrek, the island’s highest point, provides spectacular panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
Wear sturdy shoes, as some trails can be rocky and challenging, especially along the coast.
9. Visit the Ġgantija Temples
One of the oldest free-standing structures in the world, the Ġgantija Temples on Gozo date back over 5,000 years. They offer a fascinating look into Malta’s prehistoric past.
Guided tours provide great insight into the history and myths surrounding these ancient temples.
10. Explore Marsaxlokk Fishing Village
Marsaxlokk is a picturesque fishing village known for its colorful boats and local fish market. It’s a charming spot to experience authentic Maltese culture.
Visit on Sunday mornings for the full experience of the fish market and local crafts.
10 Things You Need to know
1.
Access More with the Malta Multi Pass
The Malta Multi Pass offers free entry to top attractions and free public transport, providing great value for tourists.
6.
When to Visit
Visit in spring or autumn for mild weather and fewer tourists, avoiding the summer heat and crowds.
2.
Where to Stay
Valletta offers a cultural hub with historic sites, while St. Julian’s provides a lively atmosphere for those seeking nightlife and entertainment.
7.
Famous Filming Location
Malta has been the backdrop for blockbuster films and TV shows, including Game of Thrones, Gladiator, and Jurassic World.
3.
Language
Maltese is the official language, but English is widely spoken, making it easy for English-speaking tourists to communicate.
8.
Safety
Malta is a safe destination, but like any tourist spot, stay alert for pickpockets in crowded areas.
4.
Getting Around Malta
Take advantage of Malta’s reliable and extensive bus network that connects all the main areas of the island.
9.
Tipping Culture
A 10-15% tip is customary for good service at restaurants, though it’s not compulsory.
5.
Malta’s Compact Size
Though small in size, Malta offers a wealth of attractions, making it perfect for exploring in a short time.
10.
Currency Used in Malta
Malta uses the Euro, and cash is still widely accepted, especially in smaller shops and cafes, so be sure to carry some.
6.
When to Visit
Visit in spring or autumn for mild weather and fewer tourists, avoiding the summer heat and crowds.
7.
Famous Filming Location
Malta has been the backdrop for blockbuster films and TV shows, including Game of Thrones, Gladiator, and Jurassic World.
8.
Safety
Malta is a safe destination, but like any tourist spot, stay alert for pickpockets in crowded areas.
9.
Tipping Culture
A 10-15% tip is customary for good service at restaurants, though it’s not compulsory.
10.
Currency Used in Malta
Malta uses the Euro, and cash is still widely accepted, especially in smaller shops and cafes, so be sure to carry some.