Best Things to do in Malta
Last updated on March 2nd, 2024 at 06:20 pm
Malta is a tiny island located in the Mediterranean Sea, to the west of Italy. It is a popular travel destination for people from all over the world, attracted by its stunning natural beauty, medieval towns, and delicious food. Malta has something to offer for everyone, whether you’re looking for a beach vacation, a collection of UNESCO world heritage sites, boat tours, multi-cultural experiences, or just a taste of the Mediterranean lifestyle.
I’ve put together a complete guide for traveling to Malta in 2024 below, with all the information you need to plan your perfect trip. Whether you’re looking for things to do, places to eat or where to stay, this guide covers it all!
Keep in mind that this site contains affiliate links. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. However, this does not impact my honest reviews and comparisons. I only make recommendations based on personal experience(s), in order to help you make the best decisions while traveling!
What’s the best month to visit Malta
As with any typical beach destination, the best time to visit Malta is between late spring and early fall. I prefer to travel when there’s less crowds but the weather is still warm enough to enjoy water activities. I recommend visiting in late May or early September if you can. Malta is an extremely popular destination for Europeans during the summer months.
Top Attractions in Malta
Malta – enjoy 3,000 hours of sunshine a year
Official Malta Tourism Board
Based on the official tagline of the country, you can probably guess that there are a lot of things to do outside in Malta, especially activities that involve the sea such as swimming, snorkeling, diving, and more. However, Malta is also a country rich in history dating back to 5900 BC. Why not combine history AND the great outdoors?
Swim in crystal clear water at Crystal Lagoon
If you’ve done any research about Malta, you’ve probably heard about the Blue Lagoon but did you know about the Crystal Lagoon – its less crowded and quieter little sister?
Located in a tucked away cove and only a 15min walk south of The Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon is one of the top dive and snorkel sites in Malta. You could spend the entire day here playing in the water and laying along the shore.
Learn about Malta’s importance in WWII at the National War Museum
When it comes to recounting the events of WWII, Malta often gets overshadowed by its sister country Italy, but Malta played a surprisingly important role during the war. The National War Museum in Malta is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of warfare. The museum houses an impressive collection of weapons, uniforms, and memorabilia from various conflicts, ranging from the Punic Wars to World War II.
Visitors can learn about the strategic importance of Malta during wartime, as well as the personal stories of the Maltese people who lived through these periods of upheaval. Make sure to also reserve time for Fort Saint Elmo which is directly beyond the National War Museum.
Watch the sunrise from Upper Barrakka Gardens
You’ll likely spend a few days in the capital city of Valletta where you’ll come across the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens. Get there early to enjoy a magical sunrise and panoramic views over the Grand Harbour. Afterwards, head to The Embassy for an unforgettable rooftop breakfast.
Watch the sunset from Sliema
One of the best times to visit Sliema is at sunset. The town is situated on a peninsula, so there are many places where you can get a good view of the sun setting over the Mediterranean Sea. The warm colors of the sunset create a beautiful contrast with the blue of the sea and sky. If you’re lucky, you might even see a few dolphins swimming in the water.
Visit the fortified city of Mdina
Mdina, the former capital of Malta, is a must for fans of the show Game of Thrones. Even if you’re not a fan, you’ll be blown away by the intricacies of medieval architecture as soon as you walk through the main gate. Mdina is small which means you won’t need to spend more than half a day here. A few hours is more than enough time to wander around the walled streets, stop for lunch at Fontanella Tea Garden, and check out St. Paul’s Cathedral (a magnificent baroque catholic church).
Fun fact – Mdina is also nicknamed the “silent city” but these days, it’s far from it with locals and tourists filling up the streets during the day.
Where should you eat and drink in Malta
Malta’s cuisine can be described as a blend of its closest neighbors with the heaviest influence coming from Italy, Spain, and other Mediterranean countries. I found the food to be delicious in Malta, especially the national dish which is stuffat tal-fenek – also known as rabbit stew. The dish is prepared by slow-cooking marinated rabbit meat in a tomato and herb sauce. It is typically served with potatoes, carrots, and green peas. If you’re looking for a dining experience that is truly representative of Maltese culture, then I recommend checking out one of these restaurants below:
Ta’Kris
Ta’Kris is a traditional Maltese restaurant located in Sliema. I ordered the rabbit seasoned with garlic and rosemary and the octopus soup. The rabbit was cooked to perfection, the garlic and rosemary complimented each other perfectly and the soup was probably the best octopus soup I’ve ever had in my entire life. Not to mention, each meal comes with a free appetizer of homemade bread and bean dip. They also have a great selection of local wines from the island and they offer indoor and outdoor seating. I highly recommend this restaurant if you are looking for an authentic Maltese experience!
Ta’Kolina
Ta’Kolina is a traditional Maltese restaurant that has been in business for many years. It is very popular for its authentic cuisine and warm and friendly atmosphere. I ordered the garlic octopus appetizer and the rabbit ravioli. Can you sense a theme here?
I was thoroughly impressed with both dishes! Plus – the restaurant is conveniently located on Tower Road so if you time things right, you might be able to catch an incredible sunset directly from your table.
The Fork & Cork
The Fork & Cork is a beautiful restaurant located along the edge of Rabat and Mdina. The food is excellent, with a focus on Mediterranean flavours, and the restaurant is Michelin guide-listed. If you can splurge for dinner on vacation, this is the place to do it.
Caffe Berry
Caffe Berry is a popular local coffee shop chain with locations in Valletta and Sliema. I ordered an unforgettably delicious pistachio latte here. They serve a wide range of items including coffee, juice, pastries and more – making it the perfect place to stop for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up. Whether you’re looking for a quick caffeine fix or want to relax with friends, Caffe Berry is the perfect spot.
Manouche
With over 4 locations on the island, Manouche is Malta’s first craft bakery & bistro. They specialize in French techniques and only use fresh ingredients for their desserts and baked goods. They even have a sweet and savoury afternoon tea menu at most locations!
Where should you stay in Malta
When deciding where to stay in Malta, visitors have a wide range of options to choose from. The most popular option is to stay on the main island, which offers a wide variety of accommodation options. The main island of Malta is home to the majority of hotels and airbnbs, as well as a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. The neighboring island of Gozo is more rural, with a slower pace of life and fewer nightlife options. Whichever option you choose, you are sure to find plenty of accommodation options in Malta.
Valletta
As the capital city of Malta, Valletta is a great option for first-time visitors. There’s a high concentration of shops, restaurants, and attractions in this area. More importantly, every bus departs from the main terminal in Valletta so it’s the best option for people who will be relying on public transportation. My top recommendations for hotels that won’t break the bank are The Embassy Valetta, Grand Harbour Hotel, and Palais Le Brun.
Sliema
Located just across the harbor, Sliema is another popular and safe neighborhood with a good selection of hotel and airbnb accommodations. I spent 7 days in Sliema at The Ax Victoria and much preferred it to Valletta due to price and proximity to the ocean. I’m very much a morning person so I loved being able to go for a run along Tower Road or watching the sunset over the Victorian Baths each night. My top recommendations for Sliema include The Ax Victoria (where I stayed), Ax The Palace (connected to The Ax Victoria), and 1926 Hotel & Spa.
St. Julians
North of Sliema is the area of St. Julians. As the most commercialized part of the island, St. Julian’s/Paceville is a good place to stay for those looking for nightlife or shopping. This area is also great for backpackers and budget travelers, since the majority of hostels are located here.
Gozo – Accessible only by ferry, Gozo is the northernmost island of Malta. People typically recommend spending 2-3 days here – making it an excellent choice for couples, families, and anyone looking to enjoy the less developed and quieter side to Malta.
How to get around in Malta
Rent a Car – If you’re comfortable driving on the left, renting a car seems like the best way to get around the island on your own time. Street parking can be difficult in the narrow alleys, but there are plenty of fairly priced parking lots around for hourly or overnight parking.
The Bus – I had never driven on the left so I didn’t feel comfortable renting a car but found the bus system to be extremely efficient in Malta. I took the bus literally everywhere. You can buy a 7-day unlimited bus pass from any of these stores listed here.
Bolt – Equivalent to the uber of Malta, Bolt is a relatively cheap and reliable way to get around the island.
Taxi – The only time I took a taxi was to/from the airport. The rates are fixed and tipping is not expected (but appreciated) in Malta. Click here to find a list of all the fixed rates to/from a certain location by taxi. I don’t recommend taking a taxi unless you’re out super late, can afford it, or have a 6am departure from the airport like I did.
Have I convinced you to add Malta to your bucket list? Let me know in the comments below!
Visiting other parts of Europe?
Check out my other travel guides on Europe here.
Looking for travel inspiration to somewhere else?
Last updated on March 2nd, 2024 at 06:20 pm
Malta is a tiny island located in the Mediterranean Sea, to the west of Italy. It is a popular travel destination for people from all over the world, attracted by its stunning natural beauty, medieval towns, and delicious food. Malta has something to offer for everyone, whether you’re looking for a beach vacation, a collection of UNESCO world heritage sites, boat tours, multi-cultural experiences, or just a taste of the Mediterranean lifestyle.
I’ve put together a complete guide for traveling to Malta in 2024 below, with all the information you need to plan your perfect trip. Whether you’re looking for things to do, places to eat or where to stay, this guide covers it all!
Keep in mind that this site contains affiliate links. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. However, this does not impact my honest reviews and comparisons. I only make recommendations based on personal experience(s), in order to help you make the best decisions while traveling!
What’s the best month to visit Malta
As with any typical beach destination, the best time to visit Malta is between late spring and early fall. I prefer to travel when there’s less crowds but the weather is still warm enough to enjoy water activities. I recommend visiting in late May or early September if you can. Malta is an extremely popular destination for Europeans during the summer months.
Top Attractions in Malta
Malta – enjoy 3,000 hours of sunshine a year
Official Malta Tourism Board
Based on the official tagline of the country, you can probably guess that there are a lot of things to do outside in Malta, especially activities that involve the sea such as swimming, snorkeling, diving, and more. However, Malta is also a country rich in history dating back to 5900 BC. Why not combine history AND the great outdoors?
Swim in crystal clear water at Crystal Lagoon
If you’ve done any research about Malta, you’ve probably heard about the Blue Lagoon but did you know about the Crystal Lagoon – its less crowded and quieter little sister?
Located in a tucked away cove and only a 15min walk south of The Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon is one of the top dive and snorkel sites in Malta. You could spend the entire day here playing in the water and laying along the shore.
Learn about Malta’s importance in WWII at the National War Museum
When it comes to recounting the events of WWII, Malta often gets overshadowed by its sister country Italy, but Malta played a surprisingly important role during the war. The National War Museum in Malta is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of warfare. The museum houses an impressive collection of weapons, uniforms, and memorabilia from various conflicts, ranging from the Punic Wars to World War II.
Visitors can learn about the strategic importance of Malta during wartime, as well as the personal stories of the Maltese people who lived through these periods of upheaval. Make sure to also reserve time for Fort Saint Elmo which is directly beyond the National War Museum.
Watch the sunrise from Upper Barrakka Gardens
You’ll likely spend a few days in the capital city of Valletta where you’ll come across the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens. Get there early to enjoy a magical sunrise and panoramic views over the Grand Harbour. Afterwards, head to The Embassy for an unforgettable rooftop breakfast.
Watch the sunset from Sliema
One of the best times to visit Sliema is at sunset. The town is situated on a peninsula, so there are many places where you can get a good view of the sun setting over the Mediterranean Sea. The warm colors of the sunset create a beautiful contrast with the blue of the sea and sky. If you’re lucky, you might even see a few dolphins swimming in the water.
Visit the fortified city of Mdina
Mdina, the former capital of Malta, is a must for fans of the show Game of Thrones. Even if you’re not a fan, you’ll be blown away by the intricacies of medieval architecture as soon as you walk through the main gate. Mdina is small which means you won’t need to spend more than half a day here. A few hours is more than enough time to wander around the walled streets, stop for lunch at Fontanella Tea Garden, and check out St. Paul’s Cathedral (a magnificent baroque catholic church).
Fun fact – Mdina is also nicknamed the “silent city” but these days, it’s far from it with locals and tourists filling up the streets during the day.
Where should you eat and drink in Malta
Malta’s cuisine can be described as a blend of its closest neighbors with the heaviest influence coming from Italy, Spain, and other Mediterranean countries. I found the food to be delicious in Malta, especially the national dish which is stuffat tal-fenek – also known as rabbit stew. The dish is prepared by slow-cooking marinated rabbit meat in a tomato and herb sauce. It is typically served with potatoes, carrots, and green peas. If you’re looking for a dining experience that is truly representative of Maltese culture, then I recommend checking out one of these restaurants below:
Ta’Kris
Ta’Kris is a traditional Maltese restaurant located in Sliema. I ordered the rabbit seasoned with garlic and rosemary and the octopus soup. The rabbit was cooked to perfection, the garlic and rosemary complimented each other perfectly and the soup was probably the best octopus soup I’ve ever had in my entire life. Not to mention, each meal comes with a free appetizer of homemade bread and bean dip. They also have a great selection of local wines from the island and they offer indoor and outdoor seating. I highly recommend this restaurant if you are looking for an authentic Maltese experience!
Ta’Kolina
Ta’Kolina is a traditional Maltese restaurant that has been in business for many years. It is very popular for its authentic cuisine and warm and friendly atmosphere. I ordered the garlic octopus appetizer and the rabbit ravioli. Can you sense a theme here?
I was thoroughly impressed with both dishes! Plus – the restaurant is conveniently located on Tower Road so if you time things right, you might be able to catch an incredible sunset directly from your table.
The Fork & Cork
The Fork & Cork is a beautiful restaurant located along the edge of Rabat and Mdina. The food is excellent, with a focus on Mediterranean flavours, and the restaurant is Michelin guide-listed. If you can splurge for dinner on vacation, this is the place to do it.
Caffe Berry
Caffe Berry is a popular local coffee shop chain with locations in Valletta and Sliema. I ordered an unforgettably delicious pistachio latte here. They serve a wide range of items including coffee, juice, pastries and more – making it the perfect place to stop for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up. Whether you’re looking for a quick caffeine fix or want to relax with friends, Caffe Berry is the perfect spot.
Manouche
With over 4 locations on the island, Manouche is Malta’s first craft bakery & bistro. They specialize in French techniques and only use fresh ingredients for their desserts and baked goods. They even have a sweet and savoury afternoon tea menu at most locations!
Where should you stay in Malta
When deciding where to stay in Malta, visitors have a wide range of options to choose from. The most popular option is to stay on the main island, which offers a wide variety of accommodation options. The main island of Malta is home to the majority of hotels and airbnbs, as well as a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. The neighboring island of Gozo is more rural, with a slower pace of life and fewer nightlife options. Whichever option you choose, you are sure to find plenty of accommodation options in Malta.
Valletta
As the capital city of Malta, Valletta is a great option for first-time visitors. There’s a high concentration of shops, restaurants, and attractions in this area. More importantly, every bus departs from the main terminal in Valletta so it’s the best option for people who will be relying on public transportation. My top recommendations for hotels that won’t break the bank are The Embassy Valetta, Grand Harbour Hotel, and Palais Le Brun.
Sliema
Located just across the harbor, Sliema is another popular and safe neighborhood with a good selection of hotel and airbnb accommodations. I spent 7 days in Sliema at The Ax Victoria and much preferred it to Valletta due to price and proximity to the ocean. I’m very much a morning person so I loved being able to go for a run along Tower Road or watching the sunset over the Victorian Baths each night. My top recommendations for Sliema include The Ax Victoria (where I stayed), Ax The Palace (connected to The Ax Victoria), and 1926 Hotel & Spa.
St. Julians
North of Sliema is the area of St. Julians. As the most commercialized part of the island, St. Julian’s/Paceville is a good place to stay for those looking for nightlife or shopping. This area is also great for backpackers and budget travelers, since the majority of hostels are located here.
Gozo – Accessible only by ferry, Gozo is the northernmost island of Malta. People typically recommend spending 2-3 days here – making it an excellent choice for couples, families, and anyone looking to enjoy the less developed and quieter side to Malta.
How to get around in Malta
Rent a Car – If you’re comfortable driving on the left, renting a car seems like the best way to get around the island on your own time. Street parking can be difficult in the narrow alleys, but there are plenty of fairly priced parking lots around for hourly or overnight parking.
The Bus – I had never driven on the left so I didn’t feel comfortable renting a car but found the bus system to be extremely efficient in Malta. I took the bus literally everywhere. You can buy a 7-day unlimited bus pass from any of these stores listed here.
Bolt – Equivalent to the uber of Malta, Bolt is a relatively cheap and reliable way to get around the island.
Taxi – The only time I took a taxi was to/from the airport. The rates are fixed and tipping is not expected (but appreciated) in Malta. Click here to find a list of all the fixed rates to/from a certain location by taxi. I don’t recommend taking a taxi unless you’re out super late, can afford it, or have a 6am departure from the airport like I did.
Have I convinced you to add Malta to your bucket list? Let me know in the comments below!
Visiting other parts of Europe?
Check out my other travel guides on Europe here.
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