From the towering fortifications of Valletta, Europe’s smallest capital city, to the megalithic temples of Gozo, here are the best places to visit in Malta.
Malta, a small archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea, has a rich and layered history dating back thousands of years. Prehistoric settlers left a remarkable legacy, including the UNESCO-listed megalithic temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, which are older than the Egyptian pyramids. Around 800 BC, the Phoenicians colonised Malta, followed by the Romans in 218 BC.
In 870 AD, the Arabs conquered Malta, significantly influencing the Maltese language. The Normans took control in 1091, and in 1530, Charles V of Spain gave Malta to the Knights of St. John. Their rule saw the building of Valletta, named after Grand Master Jean Parisot de Valette, once they’d beaten back the Ottomans during the Great Siege of 1565.
Malta’s strategic location led to heavy involvement in both World Wars. Its heroic resistance during WWII earned the entire island the George Cross from Britain’s King George VI. Malta gained independence in 1964, became a republic in 1974, and joined the European Union in 2004, reflecting its ongoing geopolitical evolution.
Despite the small size of Malta, there is plenty to see and do. If it’s on your list of places to visit, here are the top places you’ll want to explore!
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The best places to visit in Malta
For such a small island, I’m always surprised at just how much there is to do in Malta. I’ve been here on three separate occasions, for a week each time, and yet still, there are so many places to visit in Malta that I just haven’t had time to see yet.
But that’s exactly why this little island nation is such a fascinating destination to explore. You can uncover the history of the Knights of St John in Valletta, you can learn about the Siege of Malta during the Second World War, relax on beaches, visit Megalithic temples that are tens of thousands of years old, or you can spend the evening blowing your Euros in St Julian’s Casinos!
And still, you’ll have plenty more places to visit the next time you’re in Malta.
Read more: Is Malta a Country? Everything You Need to Know.
1. Valletta
Some people go to Malta just to explore Valletta; without ever setting foot on a beach. The city’s origins can be traced back to 1565, following the Great Siege when the Knights of St. John successfully defended Malta against the Ottomans.
To strengthen their defences, Grand Master Jean Parisot de Valette initiated the construction of a fortified city on the Sciberras Peninsula, later named Valletta in his honour. Many eminent European architects and engineers contributed to the city’s design, making Valletta a unique blend of Baroque and Mannerist styles.
Valletta, Malta’s capital city, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is now one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world. There are over three hundred historical monuments to explore throughout the city, with popular locations to visit including Saint John’s Co-Cathedral, the Manoel Theatre and the National Museum of Fine Arts. You don’t have to be a history lover to appreciate everything this city has to offer, but it does help.
Read more: 15 Things to Do in Valletta, Malta
2. The National Museum of Archaeology
The National Museum of Archaeology, housed in the grand Auberge de Provence in Valletta, offers a fascinating journey through Malta’s rich prehistoric past. Established in 1958, it is the flagship museum for Maltese history and prehistory, managed by Heritage Malta.
The museum’s collections cover a vast period, from the first settlers on the islands around 5200 BC, through the temple-building periods, and up to the Phoenician era. Among its most prized exhibits are artefacts from the unique prehistoric periods, including the intricately carved ‘Sleeping Lady’ from the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, the ‘Venus of Malta’ from Hagar Qim, and a collection of impressive temple model altars.
The museum itself is located in one of the first buildings erected in Valletta, dating back to the 1570s. Its grand halls, once the residence of the Knights of the Order of St John, provide a fitting and atmospheric backdrop for the prehistoric treasures.
For those interested in archaeology and the ancient past, the National Museum of Archaeology is an unmissable destination on a visit to Malta’s capital city.
3. St. John’s Co-Cathedral
St. John’s Co-Cathedral, located in Valletta, is one of the finest examples of high Baroque architecture in Europe and a testament to the artistic prowess of the Knights of St. John. Built between 1572 and 1577, the exterior of the Co-Cathedral, with its austere, fortress-like façade, belies the opulence within.
Step inside and you’ll find a lavish interior filled with richly decorated vaulted ceilings, marble tombstones, and golden embellishments. The cathedral’s most famous work of art is Caravaggio’s ‘The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist’, housed in the Oratory. This masterpiece is considered one of Caravaggio’s greatest works and is the only painting he ever signed.
The cathedral is also home to the Chapel of the Langue of Provence, which contains the monumental tomb of Grand Master Jean de la Cassière, who commissioned the cathedral.
4. Upper Barrakka Gardens
Perched on the bastions of Valletta, the Upper Barrakka Gardens offer panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities of Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua. Originally private gardens for the Italian knights of the Order of St. John in the 16th century, they were opened to the public in 1824.
The Gardens are beautifully landscaped and packed with statues, including one of Sir Winston Churchill. The main terrace features a neoclassical colonnaded archway, enhancing the dramatic views.
One of the most popular attractions in the gardens is the Saluting Battery, where cannons are fired daily at noon and 4 pm, a tradition that dates back to the British era.
5. The Grand Master’s Palace
The Grand Master’s Palace, located in St. George’s Square in the heart of Valletta, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Built between 1571 and 1574, it served as the residence of the Grand Masters of the Order of St. John until 1798, and later as the Governor’s Palace during British rule.
The exterior of the Palace is an imposing example of Maltese Baroque architecture, featuring an elegant courtyard and two bronze statues of Neptune and Mars. The interior boasts richly decorated state rooms filled with tapestries, frescoes, and an impressive collection of armour in the Palace Armoury.
Of particular note are the Council Chamber, adorned with Gobelin tapestries, and the Throne Room, featuring a cycle of wall paintings that depict the Great Siege of Malta. Currently, the Palace serves as the President’s office and houses the House of Representatives of Malta.
6. Lascaris War Rooms
The Lascaris War Rooms, burrowed deep within the limestone bastions of Valletta, are witness to some of the most critical wartime decisions of World War II. Originally excavated during the 1940s, these underground chambers and tunnels served as the secret headquarters for the British defence of Malta and the Allied Mediterranean operations.
Inside these warren-like chambers, senior military officials coordinated the island’s defence during the intense Axis aerial bombardment, as well as coordinated naval operations for major Mediterranean naval battles, including Operation Husky – the invasion of Sicily in 1943.
The meticulously restored rooms now house an array of original wartime tools, maps, and equipment, offering visitors an immersive experience of the pressures and strategies of wartime operations. Beyond World War II, the Lascaris War Rooms continued their strategic role during the Cold War era.
7. Fort St. Elmo
Fort St. Elmo, found at the tip of the Valletta peninsula, holds a pivotal place in Malta’s military history. Constructed in the 1550s by the Knights of St. John, this star-shaped fortress is most renowned for its gallant defence during the Great Siege of 1565. Despite being massively outnumbered, the fort’s defenders held out against the Ottoman forces for weeks.
Over the centuries, Fort St. Elmo underwent various modifications, reflecting the evolving needs of military technology and strategy. The fort played roles in both World Wars and underwent restoration to preserve its historical integrity.
Today, Fort St. Elmo houses the National War Museum, which chronicles Malta’s military history, including artefacts from the Great Siege and World War II. For visitors, the fort not only offers insights into Malta’s tumultuous past but also provides panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the surrounding cities.
8. The Three Cities
The Three Cities are the fortified cities of Birgu (Vittoriosa), Senglea (Isla) and Cospicua (Bormla), all located in the southeastern part of Malta, but often overlooked in favour of Valletta, which is just across the Grand Harbour.
Birgu, the oldest of the trio, was the original seat of the Knights of St. John before Valletta was built. Here, Fort St. Angelo, the bastioned fort at the tip of Birgu, played a crucial role during the Great Siege of 1565, providing a defensive stronghold against the invading Ottoman Empire. Birgu is also home to the Inquisitor’s Palace and the Malta Maritime Museum.
Senglea, also known as Isla, was built in the 16th century during the reign of Grand Master Claude de la Sengle. The city was severely damaged during World War II but has since been restored. The Gardjola Gardens, with its iconic guard tower, offers beautiful views of the Grand Harbour.
Cospicua, the largest of the Three Cities, is known for its dockyards which have been in operation since the time of the Knights. It’s also home to the Church of the Immaculate Conception, which dates back to the 17th century.
The Three Cities offer a historic slice of Maltese life, away from the main tourist trails. Wandering through their narrow winding streets, you can discover a host of historical buildings, churches and fortifications, while enjoying spectacular views across the Grand Harbour to Valletta.
9. Sliema
Sliema, located opposite Valletta, seamlessly blends traditional Maltese charm with a modern, urban feel. The town’s name derives from the Maltese word for peace, ‘sliem’, reflecting its origins as a quiet fishing village.
Sliema’s seafront promenade offers beautiful views of the Mediterranean and the cityscape of Valletta. Take a stroll along the promenade, stopping at beach clubs or jumping into pubs for a cold pint.
Sliema also provides convenient ferry services to Valletta and the Three Cities, as well as regular boat tours to Gozo and Comino (trips depart daily from the harbour), making it a convenient base for your stay in Malta (I stayed on the seafront here for a week during my last trip to Malta).
10. St Julian’s
St. Julian’s is well-known for its lively atmosphere and bustling nightlife. The area has something for every nightlife lover, from upscale dining to dance clubs, and is considered the entertainment hub of the island.
The district of Paceville is at the heart of St. Julian’s nightlife. The streets come alive at night with a mix of nightclubs, bars, and pubs. From dance music to reggae, rock to jazz, the varied venues play a wide range of music, ensuring a crazy drinking scene every night.
St. Julian’s is also a hotspot for gambling and gaming, with numerous casinos that appeal to both novice and experienced players. The Dragonara Casino, housed in a 19th-century palace, and the Casino Malta, one of the largest casinos in Malta, offer a range of games including poker, roulette, blackjack, and slot machines.
Beyond its nightlife, St. Julian’s offers daytime activities like water sports, shopping, and leisurely strolls along Spinola Bay. Whether you’re a party enthusiast, a casino fan, or a food lover, St. Julian’s offers an energetic and enjoyable experience in Malta.
11. Mdina
Mdina is a fortified city in the northern region of Malta. Its history dates back over 4000 years, and it served as the island’s capital until the Medieval period.
Originally founded by the Phoenicians in the 8th century BC, Mdina has seen the influence of numerous cultures and civilizations, including Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, and Normans, all leaving their distinct mark on the city’s architecture and character. The Arabs, who arrived in the 9th century AD, fortified the city and gave it its present name, Mdina, meaning ‘walled city’ in Arabic.
The city’s compact size holds an impressive concentration of history and architecture. St. Paul’s Cathedral, a Baroque gem designed by Maltese architect Lorenzo Gafà, dominates the skyline. The cathedral is said to be located on the spot where St. Paul converted Publius, the Roman governor, to Christianity in 60 AD.
Another significant landmark is Palazzo Vilhena, a French Baroque palace which houses the National Museum of Natural History. The Bastion Square, on the city’s western edge, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Malta.
Read more: 10 Best Things to Do in Mdina, Malta
12. Imtarfa Military Cemetery
The Imtarfa Military Cemetery, located in the central region of Malta, serves as a solemn reminder of the island’s turbulent history. Overlooking the old town of Mdina, this cemetery houses the graves of soldiers from various nationalities who served in Malta during the 19th and 20th centuries.
The cemetery’s oldest graves date back to the late 1800s when Imtarfa was a British military hospital, and many of those buried here were victims of diseases like cholera and typhoid. The cemetery also has a significant number of graves from both World Wars, including British, Australian, and New Zealand troops, among others.
One notable feature of the Imtarfa Military Cemetery is its inclusion of German and Italian soldiers from World War II, reflecting the principle of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission to honour all war dead equally.
Visiting Imtarfa offers a poignant look at the personal stories behind Malta’s military past, making it an important destination for those interested in history.
13. Golden Bay
Golden Bay, situated on the northwest coast of Malta, is one of the island’s most popular sandy beaches. Named for its golden sands, the beach is a gleaming spectacle when the sun sets. Its crystal-clear, azure waters make it an ideal location for swimming, snorkelling and water sports.
Beyond its scenic beauty, Golden Bay is also known for its excellent amenities. The beach is fully equipped with facilities, including sunbeds, umbrellas, public restrooms, and a lifeguard during peak hours. Close to the beach, there are restaurants and beach clubs where visitors can enjoy delicious meals while relishing stunning sea views. Above the bay is the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Golden Sands, offering luxury accommodations with panoramic views.
Golden Bay is surrounded by rugged countryside and cliffs, offering the opportunity for enjoyable walks and hikes. I explored the coastline here on a segway tour (using off-road segways, of course), while horse riding seemed rather popular too.
14. Dingli Cliffs
The Dingli Cliffs, located on the western coast of Malta, are the highest points of the Maltese Islands, standing approximately 253 meters above sea level. These natural limestone walls drop dramatically into the sea creating one of Malta’s most impressive natural sights.
The cliffs are perfect for rugged walks, and the area tends to be less frequented by tourists compared to other spots on the island. Along the cliff tops, various trails meander through Mediterranean scrubland, passing farmland and small chapels, including the St. Mary Magdalene Chapel.
The cliffs a are sanctuary for wildlife, particularly birds, while the vantage points provide breathtaking panoramic views, especially at sunset. Nearby, you can visit the village of Dingli or explore the prehistoric sites of Misrah Ghar il-Kbir.
15. The Hypogeum of Ħal Saflieni
The Hypogeum of Ħal Saflieni, located in Paola, Malta, is a unique archaeological site recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dating back to around 4000-2500 BC, during the Ħal Saflieni phase in Maltese prehistory, it is the world’s only known prehistoric underground temple.
This complex site is spread over three levels, descending deep into the earth. It was discovered accidentally by stonecutters in 1902, revealing a vast subterranean structure comprising interconnecting chambers, passageways, and alcoves. These areas served different purposes, including burial chambers, ritualistic spaces, and what is believed to be an oracle room with unusual acoustic properties.
The Hypogeum provides a rare glimpse into the spiritual and everyday life of the temple builders. Archaeological excavations have unearthed a wealth of artefacts, including pottery, stone tools and the famed ‘Sleeping Lady’ figurine, suggesting the site’s connection to a fertility cult.
Read more: From Phoenicians to Picasso: How to Explore the Best of Malaga’s History
16. The Tarxien Temples
The Tarxien Temples in southeastern Malta are a significant prehistoric site dating back to approximately 3150 BC. Comprising a complex of four separate temples, this UNESCO World Heritage Site represents one of the most elaborately decorated of all the Maltese megalithic structures.
The temples showcase intricate stonework, including complex spiral designs and reliefs of domestic animals, which provide valuable insight into the artistic abilities and belief systems of Malta’s ancient inhabitants.
Archaeological excavations, which began in the early 20th century, have revealed that the temples were used for rituals, possibly related to fertility given the abundance of animal and human figurines found at the site. A tour of the Tarxien Temples provides visitors with an opportunity to delve into the Neolithic culture of the Maltese Islands and marvel at the architectural skill of the temple builders. The site’s close proximity to the Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni makes it a great day trip for history and archaeology enthusiasts.
17. The Farsons Brewery Experience
The Farsons Brewery Experience offers an immersive journey into Malta’s rich brewing history. Farsons has been a household name in Malta since its founding in 1928, and the experience offers visitors a behind-the-scenes look at how these popular brews are crafted.
The Farsons Brewery Experience takes visitors through the various stages of beer production, from the sourcing of ingredients to the brewing, fermenting, and packaging processes. The Farsons Brewery Experience also delves into Farsons’ history, its growth, and the evolution of its products over the decades. A variety of historical exhibits, including vintage brewing equipment and old advertising materials, illustrate the brewery’s significant role in Malta’s industrial heritage.
The experience concludes with a tasting session, where visitors can sample some of Farsons’ signature beers, such as Cisk Lager, Blue Label Ale and Lacto milk stout. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just interested in local industry and culture, the Farsons Brewery Experience provides a fascinating insight into Malta’s brewing tradition.
18. Marsaxlokk
Marsaxlokk, on Malta’s southeastern coast, is a traditional fishing village with a famous fish market and excellent seafood restaurants t chat’s home to Malta’s colourful ‘luzzu’ fishing boats.
The history of Marsaxlokk goes back to antiquity. It’s believed that the Phoenicians established it as a trading port, and it’s also the site where the Ottoman Empire launched its invasion during the Great Siege of Malta in 1565.
The village is most lively on Sundays when the Marsaxlokk Fish Market takes place. Local fishermen display their fresh catch, selling a variety of fish and seafood to the backdrop of bobbing boats in the harbour.
The waterfront is lined with a wide array of restaurants offering fresh seafood dishes, making Marsaxlokk a haven for foodies. Other attractions include the Marsaxlokk Parish Church dedicated to Our Lady of Pompei and Fort Delimara, a British-era fortification at the tip of Delimara Point.
Read more: Exploring Europe’s Smallest Countries – Which Microstates Should I Visit?
19. The Blue Grotto
The Blue Grotto, located on the southern coast of Malta near the village of Zurrieq, is one of the island’s best natural sights. Named for the reflections that mimic a blue grotto, it consists of several sea caves carved into the limestone cliffs by the force of the sea.
The caves are known for clear waters that sparkle under the sunlight, with the play of light beneath the surface giving off an impressive array of colours, making the grotto a natural spectacle.
The largest arch, which is the one referred to as the Blue Grotto, is about 30 meters high, and boat tours are available to explore these caves. Snorkelling and diving are also popular activities here, allowing a closer look at the rich marine life.
20. Mnajdra and Ħaġar Qim Temples
Mnajdra and Ħaġar Qim, situated on Malta’s southern coast, are two of the most remarkable and ancient religious sites in the world. Recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, these temples provide a fascinating insight into Malta’s prehistoric era.
Mnajdra, situated about 500m away from Ħaġar Qim, is precisely aligned with the sun during the solstices and equinoxes, suggesting its use as an ancient astronomical observatory. The temple complex consists of three separate buildings, each showcasing intricate stonework that attests to the architectural prowess of prehistoric builders.
Ħaġar Qim, perched on a hilltop overlooking the sea, dates back to around 3600 to 3200 BC. Its features include a large, central space containing altars and a variety of elaborate stone carvings. The temple’s largest stone weighs approximately 20 tons, demonstrating the remarkable capabilities of its builders.
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21. Mellieha Bay
Mellieha Bay, also known as Ghadira Bay, is home to Malta’s largest sandy beach. Located in the northern part of the island, the bay is renowned for its wide sandy shore and crystal-clear shallow waters, making it a perfect spot for families with children and for those who enjoy water sports.
Adjacent to the beach, the bustling town of Mellieha offers further attractions including the historic Mellieha Parish Church and the charming village square. Moreover, the nearby Popeye Village, originally the film set for the 1980s Popeye movie, offers an interesting excursion away from the beach.
22. Popeye Village
Popeye Village, also known as Sweethaven Village, is a charming family attraction located at Anchor Bay near Mellieħa on the northern coast of Malta. This ‘village’ was originally a film set for the 1980 live-action musical ‘Popeye’ starring Robin Williams and has since been preserved and transformed into one of Malta’s top tourist attractions.
The village is a faithful recreation of the comic strip hometown of Popeye the Sailor Man, featuring ramshackle wooden buildings, including Popeye’s cabin, the post office, the barbershop and Olive Oyl’s house. It offers the delightful sense of stepping into a cartoon world, and is one of the more unusual things to do in Malta!
23. Gozo
Gozo, the second largest island in the Maltese archipelago, is an off-the-beaten-track respite from the built-up main island of Malta. Known for its rural landscapes, historical sites and relaxed pace of life, the history of Gozo is as rich as that of Malta, with its earliest settlers dating back to the Neolithic period. The most notable testament to this early settlement is the Ggantija Temples. Older than Egypt’s pyramids, these temples represent one of the most significant archaeological sites worldwide.
The island’s history is further enriched by various cultural influences including the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and Knights of St. John, who have all left their mark. Medieval fortifications, like the Citadella in Victoria, the island’s capital, offer a glimpse into Gozo’s past. Once a place of refuge during raids, the Citadella now provides panoramic views of Gozo’s rolling hills and fields.
The island is home to stunning natural attractions, such as the Azure Window’s remnants (this natural arch collapsed in 2017), the Inland Sea in Dwejra and the red sandy beach of Ramla Bay. Xlendi Bay, with its lovely beach and waterfront restaurants, is a favoured spot too.
24. Victoria, Gozo
Victoria, also known by its older name Rabat, is the capital city of Gozo, the second-largest island in the Maltese archipelago. Despite its status as a city, Victoria retains the feel of a small town, where traditions are tightly held and the pace of life is leisurely.
The city’s history can be traced back to the Neolithic period, with various foreign influences shaping its culture and architecture over the centuries. One of the city’s most significant historical landmarks is the Citadella, a small fortified city perched on a hilltop, providing panoramic views of Gozo.
Initially developed by the Romans, the Citadella was later fortified by the Knights of St. John in the 17th century. Its winding streets, medieval houses, Gozo Museum of Archaeology and the Gozo Cathedral are notable attractions. In the heart of Victoria, you’ll find the daily market in Independence Square, plenty of Pastizzi makers and the St. George Basilica.
25. Marsalforn, Gozo
Marsalforn, located on the northern coast of Gozo, is one of the island’s most popular seaside resorts. This picturesque fishing village, once the main harbour of Gozo, has transformed into a tourist destination while retaining much of its traditional charm.
Marsalforn Bay, with its sandy beach and clear waters, is perfect for swimming and sunbathing, while the promenade is lined with a host of restaurants and cafés serving fresh seafood and traditional Maltese dishes.
Apart from the beach and the culinary scene, Marsalforn is also a gateway to some of Gozo’s natural attractions. These include the salt pans, which stretch over 3km along the coast, where salt has been harvested since Roman times. Also nearby is the hilltop shrine of Ta’ Pinu, a major pilgrimage site with great views of the island.
26. The Ggantija Temples, Gozo
The Ggantija Temples, located in Xaghra on the island of Gozo, are one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. The two temples, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980, are the world’s second oldest existing manmade religious structures (the oldest is Gobekli Tepe in Turkey), predating the Egyptian pyramids and Stonehenge.
Dating back to around 3600-3200 BC, during the Neolithic period, the name Ggantija derives from the Maltese word for ‘giant’. This name stems from the enormous size of the limestone blocks used in the construction, some of which weigh over 50 tons, leading to local legends that the temples were the work of giants.
The temples’ layout follows a common pattern found in ancient Maltese temple complexes; a central corridor leading to two or more chambers on each side. Archaeological findings suggest they were used for ritualistic purposes, as evidenced by the discovery of figurines, animal bones, and pottery shards.
In the surrounding area, you’ll find the Ggantija Interpretation Centre, which provides valuable context and information about the temples’ construction, use, and eventual abandonment.
Despite their age, the Ggantija Temples stand remarkably well preserved, offering a fascinating glimpse into the distant past. Visiting these temples allows you to walk in the footsteps of ancient people and marvel at their architectural achievements, making it a must-visit destination for history and archaeology enthusiasts.
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27. Dwerja, Gozo
Dwejra, located on the western coast of Gozo, is known for its unique geological formations and rich marine life. Once home to the Azure Window, a natural limestone arch that sadly collapsed in 2017, Dwejra continues to captivate visitors with its scenic beauty regardless.
One of Dwejra’s major attractions is the Inland Sea, a small saltwater lake linked to the sea through a narrow tunnel. Surrounded by high cliffs, this area provides a tranquil setting for swimming and diving, and small boats are available to explore the tunnel and out to the open sea.
Next to the Inland Sea is Fungus Rock, or ‘The General’s Rock,’ named after a rare plant, Maltese Fungus, that was believed to have medicinal properties. The rock, rising 60 meters above the sea, contributes to Dwejra’s dramatic landscape.
Dwejra is also a favourite among divers, offering several interesting dive sites, including the Blue Hole. This area of Gozo is a testament to the power of natural forces, and a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
28. Comino and the Blue Lagoon
Comino, the smallest inhabited island in the Maltese archipelago, is known for its crystal-clear waters and unspoiled landscapes. The island, measuring just 3.5 square kilometres, is a haven for hikers, divers and nature lovers.
The Blue Lagoon, Comino’s most popular attraction, is famous for its transparent waters. This sheltered inlet is ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and diving, with its white sandy seabed and marine life providing a tropical paradise vibe. During summer, it’s a popular spot for day-trippers, with makeshift bars popping up around the harbour area. Outside the peak season, it returns to its idyllic state.
Comino is home to a single hotel and the historic St. Mary’s Tower, a 17th-century watchtower that offers panoramic views of the island and surrounding sea. The island’s rugged coastline boasts several other stunning swimming spots for those willing to hike, such as Santa Marija Bay and San Niklaw Bay.
Map of the best places to visit in Malta
Here’s a map featuring the best places to visit in Malta:
FAQ: The best places to visit in Malta
Here’s an FAQ on the best places to visit in Malta:
Q1: What are the best places to visit in Malta?
A1: Malta offers a wide range of attractions, including the historic capital city, Valletta, the ancient fortified city of Mdina, the Three Cities of Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua, and the lively nightlife hub of St. Julian’s. Don’t miss the stunning natural attractions such as the Blue Grotto, Dingli Cliffs, and Golden Bay, or the historic sites like the Hypogeum and the Tarxien Temples.
Q2: What can I do in Gozo?
A2: Gozo, Malta’s sister island, is known for its rural landscapes and historical sites. Visit the Ggantija Temples, explore the Citadel in Victoria, enjoy the beaches and stunning views at Dwejra, and don’t forget to take a trip to the charming fishing village of Marsalforn.
Q3: What are the top attractions in Valletta?
A3: In Valletta, be sure to visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Grand Master’s Palace, the Upper Barrakka Gardens and the National Museum of Archaeology. The city itself, with its beautiful Baroque architecture and lively cafés, is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Q4: Can I visit Comino?
A4: Yes, Comino is a great day trip from Malta or Gozo. The island is best known for the Blue Lagoon, a stunningly clear turquoise water body perfect for swimming and snorkelling.
Q5: Are there any family-friendly attractions in Malta?
A5: Yes, there are plenty of family-friendly attractions, including Popeye Village, the Malta National Aquarium, and the Playmobil FunPark. The beaches and outdoor spaces in Malta are also excellent for families.
Q6: Is Malta rich in historical sites?
A6: Absolutely. Malta’s rich history spans thousands of years, and its historical sites include prehistoric temples, Roman ruins, medieval fortifications, and baroque churches.
Q7: What are some unique experiences in Malta and Gozo?
A7: Unique experiences include diving at the Blue Hole in Gozo, attending a local festa, a colourful religious festival held in different towns throughout the summer, exploring the unique geology of Dwejra and Blue Grotto, and enjoying a traditional Maltese meal in a Marsaxlokk restaurant.
Q8: Where can I enjoy the nightlife in Malta?
A8: St. Julian’s is the primary hub for nightlife in Malta, particularly Paceville, known for its clubs, bars, and casinos. You can also find lively venues and events in Valletta and Sliema.
Q9: What are some natural attractions in Malta?
A9: Some of the best natural attractions include the Blue Grotto, Dingli Cliffs, and the many beautiful beaches like Golden Bay and Mellieħa Bay. In Gozo, be sure to visit Dwejra and Ramla Bay.
Q10: Where can I learn about Malta’s history?
A10: There are many museums and historical sites that provide insight into Malta’s past. These include the National Museum of Archaeology, the War Museum in Fort St. Elmo, the Hypogeum, and the many prehistoric temples scattered around the islands.
There they are, the best places to visit in Malta! What’s your favourite destination?
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