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Plan your perfect spring getaway
Halfway between the north coast of Africa and Sicily, Malta is a taste of paradise in the heart of the Mediterranean. This beautiful island is a destination with a fascinating mix of cultures, history, and natural beauty. You won’t be stuck for stuff to do! Here are 11 of the best things to do when visiting Malta.
1. Explore Valletta
The entire city of Valletta, Malta’s capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage site! There aren’t many places that can make that claim. Not London, not Paris, not even Rome! Come visit and you’ll soon understand why.
Ruled by Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs and the Order of the Knights of St John, it’s got plenty of stories to tell. There are an amazing 320 monuments in its relatively small confines. The city is actually less than a quarter of a square mile in size!
There are museums, palaces, and grand churches galore, Maybe the highlights are the St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Upper Barrakka Gardens for stunning views, and the Grand Master’s Palace.
If you need a break from seeing all the sights, we recommend stopping for a drink in one of the city’s stunning squares.
2. Visit Mdina
Mdina, the old capital of Malta, is a medieval walled town situated on a hill in the centre of the island. Known as the “Silent City,” its narrow alleys and beautiful architecture make it a must-visit. The views from the city walls are breathtaking, as is the city too. If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, you might find some of the sights familiar!
It was the island’s capital until the 16th century, before Birgu and then, soon after, Valletta took its place. One curiosity is that if you cross the street by the statue of St. Joseph near the Pjazza Mesquita, you’re no longer in Mdina, but in Rabat instead!
Rabat has its own store of treasures waiting to be discovered, so whilst you’re there it makes sense to explore Rabat too! The north route of our hop-on hop-bus has a stop right on the road that divides Mdina and Rabat!
3. Go to Gozo
If you’re in Malta, it’d be silly not to take a ferry to the beautiful island of Gozo, which is known for its scenic countryside, historic sites, and beautiful coastline.
While there, don’t miss the Ggantija Temples. These incredible buildings are older than the pyramids! They were built more than 5000 years ago! How many modern buildings will still be standing in 7024? We’d put money on not many!
If you want to get to the temples, then our hop-on hop-off bus in Gozo will take you straight there! Another stop on the route is close to the stunning Ramla Bay. This natural wonder is famous for the reddish hue of its sand and the fantastic views out over the Med.
4. Dive and snorkel
Malta is one of the best diving spots in the Mediterranean, known for its clear blue waters, caves, and wartime wrecks. Popular diving sites include the Blue Hole in Gozo and the wreck of the HMS Maori in Valletta.
Check out our guide to some of the world’s best snorkelling spots for more about where to snorkel in Malta.
5. Visit the Blue Grotto
Located on the southern coast of Malta, the Blue Grotto is made up of several sea caves. In some caves, you can see the colours of the phosphorescent underwater flora on the cave walls and in others, the blue of the clear, deep azure waters. It’s a wonderful sight that you can see if you take a boat tour to the caves.
You might find them familiar as they’ve featured in a myriad of films, tv series and adverts! If you’re wandering how to get to the Blue Grotto, then just hop on our south route and we’ll take you straight there!
6. Explore the Marsaxlokk Fish Market
Marsaxlokk is a traditional fishing village known for its colourful “luzzus” (fishing boats) and its famous Sunday fish market. On a Sunday, this tiny fishing village is a hive of activity. Despite its name, the market doesn’t just sell fish. Even though Sunday’s the official day for the market, in summer, there tends to be something happening here most days of the week.
It’s a great place to try fresh seafood and experience local life. And if you’re doing self-catering, it’s a great place to get your dinner!
7. Hike in Dingli Cliffs
Unusually, Malta’s highest point is right by the sea! Dingli Cliffs are a natural wonder that offer dramatic coastal views. Hiking along these cliffs at sunset offers a serene and beautiful experience.
There are several brilliant viewing points. One of the most popular is by the St. Mary Magdalene Chapel, which is worth visiting just to see this tiny little chapel that stands high above the sea.
Another great viewing point is the Bronze Age settlement of Il-Wardija ta’ San Ġorġ. It’s here that historians think that the island’s first defences were built some 4000 years ago!
8. Visit the Popeye Village
One of the island’s true curiosities is the Popeye
Village. Originally a movie set for the 1980 ‘Popeye’ film, it’s now an
amusement park which is great fun for families. Located on Anchor Bay, it
offers boat rides, water trampolines, and other entertainments in a unique
setting.
9. Golden Bay
Golden Bay is home to one of Malta’s most spectacular beaches. This gorgeous sand beach has a blue flag and its shallow waters make it fun for all the family. Just hop off on our north route and enjoy an hour or two in the sun!
Close by is Ghajn Tuffieha, a wilder beach that offers golden sands and clear waters in a spectacular setting. If that sounds more up your street, then it’s definitely worth the extra walk!
10. Attend a Festival
Malta is known for its lively festivals. Notable ones include the Malta Jazz Festival, which takes place every July, and the Malta International Fireworks Festival, which happens in April.
There are numerous traditional village fiestas celebrating patron saints with fireworks, food, and parades. Get googling when you’re there!
11. The Malta Experience
For a comprehensive understanding of Malta’s rich history, visit the Malta Experience in Valletta. It’s an audiovisual show that takes you through 7,000 years of Maltese history. It’s a brilliant way to get to know the island better!
Discover Malta for yourself
All that’s just a Mal-teaser of all that this delightful
island has to offer. There’s so much to do here, ranging from historical
exploration, outdoor activities, to simply soaking in the Mediterranean
lifestyle. Whatever you do, we know that you’re sure to get a deeper
appreciation of Malta’s unique culture and natural beauty.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a plethora of must-see attractions. Some of the highlights include:
- St. John’s Co-Cathedral: Admire its ornate interior and stunning artwork.
- Grand Harbour: Enjoy panoramic views of the harbor and Fort St. Elmo.
- Upper Barrakka Gardens: Relax and soak in the breathtaking city views.
- Manoel Theatre: Catch a performance at this historic theater.
- National Museum of Archaeology: Discover Malta’s rich history through fascinating artifacts.
Malta boasts crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, making it a diving and swimming paradise. Popular spots include:
- Blue Lagoon, Comino: Swim in turquoise waters and explore the island’s natural beauty.
- Mellieha Bay: Enjoy a sandy beach and calm waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Golden Bay: A popular beach with golden sand and stunning views.
- Gozo: Explore the island’s many coves and dive sites, including the Blue Hole.
- Marsaxlokk: A fishing village with a colorful market and nearby swimming spots.
Malta offers pleasant weather year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences.
- Spring (April-May): Enjoy pleasant weather with fewer crowds.
- Summer (June-September): Experience warm and sunny weather, ideal for beach activities.
- Autumn (October-November): Enjoy mild temperatures and fewer tourists.
- Winter (December-March): Experience cooler temperatures and occasional rain, but still pleasant.
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Generally, EU citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. Non-EU citizens should check specific visa requirements.