Malta, a small yet captivating Mediterranean island nation of 500,000 people, has been at the crossroads of many different civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, and Arabs. Despite its modest size, approximately 122 square miles, the country offers a wealth of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Whether you’re delving into its storied past or basking in the Mediterranean sun, here are the top things to do in Malta.
Visit the Capital City of Valletta
Known for its grand museums, churches, gardens, and palaces, Valletta, the capital of Malta, is best explored by foot.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site contains an abundance of Baroque architecture, highlighted by the iconic St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the historic Teatru Manoel, one of Europe’s oldest theaters. A walking tour is an excellent way to see the many sites of Valletta efficiently.
As you stroll through the city, make sure to stop by the Grandmaster’s Palace, once the official residence of the powerful Grandmasters, now home to the House of Representatives and the Office of the President of Malta. Don’t miss the Palace Armoury, a treasure trove of medieval weaponry and ornamental battle-dress.
Learn about Malta’s ancient history, from Neolithic to Phoenician artifacts, at the National Museum of Archaeology, housed within an exquisite 16th-century mansion.
For a different perspective of Valletta, head to the Upper Barrakka Gardens. From this vantage point, you can take in the sweeping views of the Grand Harbor.
And don’t forget to indulge in some retail therapy on the charming Republic Street, a mostly pedestrianized area in the heart of the Old Town.
Explore the Silent City of Mdina
Mdina, the “Silent City,” is a quaint citadel with narrow streets, ancient walls, and Baroque buildings that is accessible only by foot or horse-drawn carriage.
It’s no wonder that the first season of “Game of Thrones” found its King’s Landing here. From the top of Saint John’s Bastion or Saint Martin’s Bastion, you can take in panoramic views of the Maltese countryside and the Mediterranean Sea.
The city’s most iconic entrance, the Main Gate, was built in 1724, while the Cathedral of Saint Paul is another notable landmark worth visiting.
For those interested in the opulent lifestyle of Maltese nobility, the Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum showcases rare artifacts like the Alof de Wignacourt Medal, while history enthusiasts will find the Mdina Dungeons a fascinating, albeit somber, journey into the city’s medieval past.
The National Museum of Natural History, housed in the grand Palazzo Vilhena, invites visitors to delve into Malta’s ecological heritage.
Visit Mosta Dome
Mosta Dome, officially known as the Sanctuary Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady, dates back to around 1614 when the first church was constructed on the site.
It was later replaced by the current neoclassical structure designed by Giorgio Grognet de Vassé, which was modeled after the Pantheon in Rome and has one of the world’s largest unsupported domes.
The church’s historical significance is further accentuated by the miraculous event of April 9, 1942, when a German bomb pierced through it during World War II but miraculously failed to explode, sparing the lives of the 300 people attending Mass.
The interior of Mosta Dome is adorned with exquisite paintings, including works by Giuseppe Calì, and features ornate stucco moldings and gilded elements that reflect the sanctuary’s opulence.
A replica of the World War II bomb serves as a poignant reminder of the “Miracle of Mosta,” and the church is now a minor basilica since its elevation by Pope Francis in 2018.
Relax on Malta’s Beaches and Bays
During warmer months, enjoy Malta’s beautiful beaches, with Golden Bay and Mellieha Bay being among the most popular.
Aside from its tranquil waters, Golden Bay offers an array of nearby activities, such as the Malta Surf School, while Mellieha Bay has the longest sandy beach in Malta and attractions like the whimsical Popeye Village and the Coral Lagoon.
The Gaia Peace Grove and Ghajn Tuffieha Bay present additional swimming spots.
St. Paul’s Bay, once a humble fishing village, has transformed into a vibrant seaside town with a bustling promenade that stretches to Qawra. Offering stunning views of St. Paul’s Island, where the Apostle Paul was famously shipwrecked, the area is dotted with ideal spots for swimming and snorkeling, such as the rocky Ta’ Fra Ben beach with its shallow rock pool.
Visitors can also go kayaking to sea caves around St. Paul’s Bay, and on the southeastern coast, St. Peter’s Pool is a beautiful natural swimming spot ideal for a refreshing dip.
Tour Malta’s Megalithic Temples
Visiting Malta’s megalithic temples is like stepping back into a distant past. Constructed during the 4th and 3rd millennia BC, these temples predate both Stonehenge and the Pyramids of Egypt, with the Ġgantija temples being the earliest and most ancient within this group. The temples, including Ħaġar Qim, Mnajdra, Ta’ Ħaġrat, Skorba, and Tarxien, are all recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
At sites like Mnajdra, one can witness the astronomical alignment of the temples with the solstices and equinoxes, a feature that emphasizes the sophistication of the temple builders’ understanding of celestial movements. Many of the temples offer detailed carvings and reliefs, such as those at Tarxien, which feature spirals and animal figures.
Take a Boat Trip to Gozo and Comino Island
No trip to Malta is complete without visiting Gozo Island. Go quad biking along its rugged trails for an exhilarating way to explore the island’s diverse landscapes. Wine enthusiasts can sample local wines at Tal-Massar and Ta Mena Estates, savoring the flavors of Gozo’s viticulture.
For leisurely strolls, visit Villa Rundle Gardens or the Sanap Cliffs. When the sun goes down, the Ta Cenc cliffs are a mesmerizing spot to witness the sunset.
Situated between the islands of Malta and Gozo lies the Blue Lagoon on Comino Island, renowned for its crystal-clear aquamarine water. Often described as the best in the Mediterranean, the Blue Lagoon’s pure water quality, shallow depth, and white sandy bottom are perfect for swimming and snorkeling during the designated swimming season from May to October.
Similarly, the Blue Grotto offers a mesmerizing experience, and small boat charters are available that combine visiting this natural wonder as well as Gozo and Comino Island.
Try Delicious Mediterranean food
Maltese cuisine is a fusion of Mediterranean flavors with unique national dishes such as rabbit stew, lampuki (fish pie), and pastizzi (savory pastries). Among the top dining destinations on the island, Tal-Petut in Birgu stands out with its menu of local favorites such as rabbit stew, known as stuffat tal-fenek.
In the capital city of Valletta, a trio of restaurants—Noni, Rubino, and Legligin—each offer their own unique take on Maltese gastronomy.
Legligin has a cozy bistro vibe and a tasting menu that allows patrons to sample a variety of dishes, including bigilla (broad bean) dip. Other notable local restaurants include Ta’ Frenc, Ta’ Kris, and the Aft Galley.
One of the more unique dining experiences is MUŻA Restaurant, located within a museum of community art. Presenting a small but intriguing menu, it’s a worthwhile spot for those looking to enjoy a relaxed lunch or dinner surrounded by art, culture, and history.
For the sweet-toothed, stop at Jalie’s or visit the Malta Chocolate Factory in St. Paul’s offers workshops and pairings.
Experience Malta at Night
As the sun sets in Malta, the nightlife awakens, particularly in the bustling districts of St. Julian’s and Valletta.
St. Julian’s, known as the party Mecca of Malta, is home to Paceville, which has the largest concentration of clubs and bars on the island. It’s a place where loud music, non-stop parties, and late-night dancing are the norm, with notable hotspots like Twenty Two, Footloose Fun Bar, So City Club, and Havana Club.
Whether you’re in the mood for a sophisticated wine bar or an intimate live music bistro, Valletta presents a more refined nightlife experience that is no less exciting.
The historic Strait Street, once the notorious ‘The Gut’, has transformed from its past as a red-light district to become the most famous street in Malta. Today, it’s lined with new pubs, fashionable bars, and live music venues that resonate with the sounds of jazz and other melodies.
The area around Strait Street is particularly lively, with venues like San Paolo Naufrago and The Pub.
And just below the city walls, the Valletta Waterfront offers a variety of restaurants and bars, making it an ideal spot for a more relaxed evening by the sea.
Practical Tips for Visiting Malta
The best time to visit Malta ultimately depends on personal preferences, whether one seeks summer festivals or off-peak seasons.
Summers in Malta are hot and dry, with July typically being the hottest month, when temperatures average 32°C (90°F).
For those looking to avoid the scorching heat and the influx of tourists, the shoulder months of May, June, and September are ideal. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm without being overwhelming, and the island is less crowded.
Winters in Malta are mild and wetter, with January being the coldest month. Yet, daytime temperatures rarely fall below 15°C (59°F).
When planning your trip, consider that four days are sufficient to cover the major highlights, though a week allows for a more relaxed pace and time to enjoy the beaches.
If you plan to visit numerous sites, a Malta Multipass is a convenient and affordable way to do so. English is widely spoken, making communication easy for travelers. Getting around is convenient, with options like buses, taxis, and rental cars available.
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