Malta is one of those destinations that feels like stepping into another world—a blend of rich history, stunning coastlines, and charming towns that make it an unforgettable Mediterranean stop. This island nation is right in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, with a major international airport, making it a perfect stop on a European summer trip - or a dedicated getaway on its own. 

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Getting To Malta:

Malta has a major airport on the island, and flying in directly from all over Europe very easy - however there are no direct flights from the US so you will need to connect in London, Paris, or another large hub. On our honeymoon, we flew directly from Athens, Greece, and continued on to Bari, Italy, making Malta the perfect Mediterranean stopover. 

Check availability and best flight prices: On Kayak.com | On Expedia.com

Alternatively, Malta is also so close to Sicily, Italy that you can take a direct ferry between them.

Getting Around:

While I usually always recommend renting a car in practically every destination, we found ubers and taxis to be so affordable, and the cities so walkable that we were happy we didn't have a car for the entire time - especially because you can't drive in many of the city centers. Our uber would drop us off just outside the cities like Mdina and Valleta and then we would just explore on foot from there. We rented a car for two days to go around the island and see some of the farther sites like the Megalithic Temples and more isolated beaches, which was the perfect amount. 

How Many Days Do You Need in Malta?

We stayed for five nights, which felt perfect for exploring the main island and feeling like we had enough time. If you’re adding Malta’s northern island, Gozo, I would plan for a full week to take it all in without feeling rushed.

5 Things You Need To Know:

1. English is widely spoken — While Maltese is the official language, English is commonly used, making it easy for travelers to communicate.
2. Ferries can be faster than driving — Especially between Valletta, Sliema, and the Three Cities, ferries can be a scenic and efficient way to get around.
3. Malta has a rich festival scene — Plan your trip around events like the Malta International Arts Festival or the colorful village festas for a taste of local culture - we ended up walking into a celebratory parade in Valletta our first night!
4. Maltese cuisine is a must-try — Be sure to sample local specialties like pastizzi (flaky pastries filled with ricotta or peas), rabbit stew, and ftira (Maltese-style bread). Tap water here is safe, but not great tasting. 
5. Power outlets use UK-style plugs — Make sure not to just bring a European plug adapter, but a universal or British style. 

Shop Travel Essentials:

The Best Hotels in Malta

High-End:

• Malta Marriott Hotel & Spa (St. Julian's) - A luxurious beachfront property combining classic elegance with modern comfort. Featuring a rooftop pool, multiple dining options, and spacious rooms, it’s perfect for both relaxation and exploring the island. We stayed here for our entire trip!
• The Phoenicia Malta (Valletta) - A historic landmark hotel just outside the city gates, offering stunning gardens, an infinity pool, and refined luxury.
• Hilton Malta (St. Julian's) - A resort-style hotel with multiple pools, spacious rooms, and excellent waterfront dining.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Palazzo Violetta Boutique Hotel (Sliema) - A stylish and affordable boutique hotel with comfortable suites and a small pool.
• AX The Victoria Hotel (Sliema) - A charming property offering excellent amenities, including an indoor pool and rooftop terrace.

Budget Hotels:

• Inhawi Boutique Hostel (St. Julian’s) - A modern hostel with great social spaces, sea views, and a laid-back vibe.
• Two Pillows Boutique Hostel (Sliema) - A chic, budget-friendly hostel with both dorms and private rooms, conveniently located near the ferry to Valletta.

Summer Travel Style:

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Valletta City

Malta’s capital Valleta is a stunning blend of history, culture, and vibrant city life - and a beautiful city to walk around and explore. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Valletta was built by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century and remains one of Europe’s most well-preserved historic cities. With so much to see and so many incredible restaurants, of all the cities in Malta, we came back here to Valletta the most.

Walk through he ancient streets of the city to see grand palaces, bustling squares, and charming side streets lined with colorful doors and balconies. 

Valletta is famous for lively street restaurants and bars dotting up and down the endless steps of the city. Stop for an Aperol Spritz (or a few) in the afternoon for a true Europe Summer moment and to meet people from all over at the nearby tables.

Eat at La Pira Maltese Kitchen for traditional Maltese cuisine for a great dinner - and get the local speciality rabbit rigatoni. 

For a different vibe, go the the Michelin recognized Aki Japanese Restaurant for incredible cocktails and sushi.

And for lunch or a casual dinner, Sotto Pinsa Romana Valletta has incredible pizza - we took ours to go and ate it on the street. 

Upper Barrakka Gardens is one of Valletta’s best viewpoints, offering panoramic vistas over the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. Originally built as a private retreat for the Knights of St. John, the gardens are now a peaceful public space with beautifully manicured greenery, historic statues, and the iconic Saluting Battery, where cannons are still fired daily at noon.

I'm not usually one to take time for most religious sites, but St. John’s Co-Cathedral is a must-visit,  with an elaborate Baroque interior adorned with intricate gold detailing,  tombstones, renaissance paintings, and stunningly detailed marble flooring -  and know for  one Caravaggio’s masterpiece, The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist. Regardless of your feelings on religion, the art alone here is well worth the visit.

Mdina City

Known as the “Silent City,” Mdina is a beautifully preserved medieval town that feels frozen in time. Perched on a hilltop in central Malta, it was once the island’s capital and remains one of its most atmospheric destinations that feels like walking into a film set - starting at Mdina Gate, the grand entrance to the city and an iconic landmark. Its impressive archway and fortified walls make it one of the most photographed spots in Malta, setting the stage for the medieval charm inside.

To get the most out of the city or if you love history in particular, take a guided walking tour. You can also visit the historic dungeons here!

Walking through its narrow, winding streets and allies, you’ll find golden limestone buildings, grand palaces, and hidden courtyards, all exuding a sense of old-world charm. The city’s limited traffic and quiet ambiance make it feel like stepping into another era - park your car or have your taxi drop you off outside the city and explore the winding roads on foot. 

Mdina is most known for its use as a filming location for Game of Thrones, the gate, medieval streets, and Mesquita Square were used as the backdrop for King’s Landing in the show’s first season.

Don't leave without stopping at Fontanella Tea Garden, famous for its cakes and panoramic views over the island. The city here is amazing, but you can see more of it in a half day or a full day if you visit the museums and take a tour. 

Birgu City

One of Malta’s oldest and most historic towns, Birgu (also known as Vittoriosa) is another city that is beautiful to walk through with old stone buildings, colorful doors and balconies, and ornate details everywhere. Take a free visit through the Sicolo Norman House to see the inside of one of these 13th century homes that are still in the city. 

The Grand Harbour in Birgu is one of Malta’s most significant landmarks, serving as a natural port that has been at the heart of the island’s maritime activity for centuries, flanked by Valletta on one side and the Three Cities on the other - a must visit for those interesting in military and maritime history. Today, it’s a stunning sight, with fortifications, bastions, mega-yachts, and picturesque waterfronts creating one of the most scenic views in the Mediterranean.

A great way to experience the Grand Harbour is by taking a traditional dgħajsa boat—a small, colorful Maltese water taxi that offers a unique perspective of the area. From the other side in Valletta, the Upper Barrakka Gardens provide one of the best panoramic viewpoints looking into Birgu. For a deeper dive into the area’s history, explore Fort St. Angelo, which has stood guard over the harbor for centuries.

Within Fort St Angelo at the harbour is the Mediterranean seafood Restaurant Terrone - for an incredibly unique, upscale dining experience

Other restaurants worth stopping at in Birgu are:

• Don Berto - fresh seafood and local dishes along the waterfront promenade make it a perfect stop for a quieter, authentic Maltese experience.
• Cafe Riche - A famiy-run cafe with a BEAUTIFUL garden perfect for coffee, a snack or an al fresco lunch. 
• Bebirgu - a cozy gem featuring traditional, seasonal dishes with a modern twist - best enjoyed in its beautiful courtyard under the glow of historic city walls

Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Archeological Park:

These ancient temples date back over 5,000 years and are the oldest free standing human-made structures in the world, predating even the Egyptian pyramids. Protected from the elements under an open-air tent, the temples feature impressive stone carvings and altars that give a glimpse into Malta’s ancient past. I love ancient history and am always blown away by Paleolithic to Megalithic relics, and was blown away by this site. Being able to walk among the temples and see every hand-carved mark after over 5000 years was a mind-blowing experience for me. Brandon wasn't as excited, as I am always dragging him to every ancient site I can when we are in the Mediterranean. 

The archeological park surrounding these two temple complexes date back to around 3600–3200 BC. Hagar Qim is perched on a hill with panoramic sea views, while Mnajdra, just a short walk downhill, is perfectly aligned with the solstices. The intricate stone carvings, altars, and astronomical alignments suggest these temples were used for rituals and celestial observations. To get the most out of the experience, book a private tour with a knowledgeable guide. 

There are two more ancient temple sites in Malta:

Tarxien Temples – Situated near Valletta, this complex consists of four temples built between 3600 and 2500 BC. Tarxien is particularly known for its detailed carvings, including spiral motifs and remnants of a massive stone statue, believed to depict a fertility goddess.

Ġgantija Temples (Gozo) – Though technically on Malta’s sister island, these are some of the most well-known of Malta’s ancient structures. If you're visiting Gozo, they’re a must-see for understanding the full scope of Malta’s prehistoric civilization.

The Blue Lagoon

Located on the tiny island of Comino, North of Malta's Main Island, the Blue Lagoon’s crystal-clear waters are straight out of a postcard. I was blown away - the lagoon really is THAT blue. The photos straight out of my phone look just as saturated that it almost doesn't look real. 

The lagoon is best visited early in the morning to avoid the midday crowds. Bring water shoes—sharp rocks line the shore, and rent or pack a snorkel for exploring the clear, shallow waters. Comino’s Crystal Lagoono is also worth a visit if you’re looking for a less crowded but equally stunning spot to swim

The most popular ways to get there, are to take a boat from the main island—ferries run regularly from Cirkewwa and Sliema, with trips taking about 30 minutes, or to book a group day trip tour or private boat charter..

But for a more adventurous and personalized journey, do what we did and rent your own speedboat (no license or experience required, the driving directions are quite straightforward) from Bluewaves Watersports. Renting our own speedboat is one of our favorite things to do in the Mediterranean - you can avoid group tours without the high cost of private charters. 

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St Julians and Sliema Cities

St. Julian’s and Sliema are two of Malta’s most vibrant coastal towns, known for their mix of waterfront dining, nightlife, and scenic seaside promenades. St. Julian’s is famous for its lively atmosphere, with Paceville being the island’s main nightlife hub, packed with bars, clubs, and late-night spots. But beyond the party scene, St. Julian’s also offers excellent dining and luxury resorts.

We stayed here at the Malta Marriott Hotel & Spa, which was perfect as the area is centrally located, has lots of restaurants nearby, and is a a great base to explore the island. 

Sliema, just south of St. Julian’s, is a bustling shopping and dining district with a stunning promenade stretching along the coast. The Sliema Ferries area is a key transport hub, offering quick boat trips to Valletta and harbor cruises. This area is perfect for a relaxed afternoon walk, stopping for coffee at a seaside café or exploring the boutique stores and malls. Sliema is also home to some fantastic mid-range and budget-friendly hotels, making it a great base for exploring

Malta's Best Beach: Golden Bay Beach

Golden Bay is one of Malta’s most popular sandy beaches, known for its golden sands and clear waters. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and sunset views. Beach clubs and restaurants nearby make it easy to spend a full day here - perched over the beach is Agliolio Restaurant, for Italian food on the large patio with an ocean view. 

One thing to note here is that beaches in Malta are strictly not topless unlike most of the rest of Europe - lifeguards here were telling women to put tops on. 

Take a Sailboat around the Island:

For a unique way to explore Malta’s coastline and a private, upscale experience, charter a sailboat for a day. Private boat tours offer a chance to discover hidden coves, swim in secluded bays, and experience Malta from the water. 

Most charters depart from Valletta or Sliema - this was one of the highlights of our trip!

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7 Day Malta Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Valletta

• Arrive in Malta and check into your hotel in Valletta.
• Explore Republic Street, visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and enjoy sunset views from Upper Barrakka Gardens.
• Dinner at La Pira—a cozy spot known for its traditional Maltese dishes, especially the rabbit rigatoni.

Day 2: Valletta & The Three Cities

• Spend the morning exploring Valletta’s National Museum of Archaeology and Grand Master’s Palace.
• Take the ferry to Birgu and wander through the charming streets of the Three Cities.
• Visit Fort St. Angelo for incredible Grand Harbour views.
• Dinner at Don Berto by the waterfront.

Day 3: Mdina & Rabat

• Explore Mdina’s ancient walls, visit St. Paul’s Cathedral, and stroll through the medieval streets.
• Stop in neighboring Rabat for lunch at Grotto Tavern, known for its cave-like dining space.
• Spend the evening exploring Mdina’s magical atmosphere at night.

Day 4: Blue Lagoon & Comino

• Take a boat from Cirkewwa or Sliema to Comino’s Blue Lagoon.
• Relax in the crystal-clear waters or explore Comino’s hiking trails.
• Explore Comino’s Crystal Lagoon for a quieter swimming spot.
• Return to Malta in the evening and have a relaxed dinner in Sliema.

Day 5: Gozo Day Trip

• Take the ferry to Gozo and visit the Citadel in Victoria.
• Swim at Ramla Bay or explore the unique rock formations at Dwejra Bay.
• Don’t miss visiting the Ta’ Pinu Basilica for incredible views.

Day 6: Hagar Qim Temples & Marsaxlokk

• Spend the morning exploring the UNESCO-listed Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples.
• Continue to the fishing village of Marsaxlokk for seafood at Tartarun Restaurant.
• Relax at St. Peter’s Pool, a stunning natural swimming hole.
• End the day at Golden Bay, one of Malta’s most popular beaches, perfect for sunset views.

Day 7: St. Julian’s, Sliema & Departure

• Spend your final day in the lively St. Julian’s area.
• Brunch at Gululu* for authentic Maltese dishes by the waterfront.*
• Enjoy cocktails at 33 Steps Cocktail Bar, known for its creative drinks and speakeasy vibe.
• Have a farewell dinner at Aki, a sleek Japanese-Mediterranean fusion restaurant in Valletta.

+ Download all my saved spots on Google Maps here! +