Somehow Malta tends to go unacknowledged much among world travelers when it comes to Europe – after all, on the continent that houses cities as magnificent as Venice, Paris, London, and the like, how could a tiny island like Malta compare? But you shouldn’t let its tiny size or somewhat remote location do your mind dirty – it for sure can compare and will likely even surpass whatever expectations you may have for Malta beforehand. You may take the flight and arrive for some beach hopping, but I can guarantee you that once you’ve gotten a taste of all the historical things to do in Malta, as well as taken in some of its nature and landscapes, you won’t even want to leave!
But, if you do happen to be visiting on a timeline, this Malta Bucket List can offer you the best tips for how to fill up your trip itinerary and get the best of the island with the amount of time you’ve got to spare!
Insider Tip: The Hop On-Hop Off Bus can take you to many of the places on this things to do list. You can also rent a car, just be aware that they drive on the left side of the road and that GPS is a must!
The Best Places to Visit, Attractions & Things to Do in Malta
WHAT TO DO
1. Check Out Malta’s National Art of Museum (MUZA)
MUZA is an interesting museum with a rich history, located in Valletta. Specifically it is located in Auberge d’Italie building, which was built over the course of the 16th century, originally purposing as accommodation for the knights of Order of Saint John. MUZA itself was originally known as National Museum of Fine Arts, and was located at Admiralty House until 2016. Today it houses a collection of art by both Maltese and other artists, with the major European styles of art being the representative display. Prior to its reconstruction as National Museum of Fine Arts, the museum also housed an archaeological collection, but the art museum was moved to the Admiralty House in 1974, while the archaeological artifacts stayed at the original museum, renaming itself as the National Museum of Archaeology.
2. Cruise The Famous Grand Harbour
Otherwise known as the Port of Valletta, Grand Harbour is a famous harbor located in Valletta, facing the three cities (also known as Senglea, Vittoriosa, and Cospicua). It is possibly Malta’s most significant geographical asset, which in turn has enhanced its famousness. The harbor has been used since as long ago as prehistoric times, and its history is about as diverse and lengthy as its age.
It has been the base for the knights of Order of Saint John, and many battles throughout history have taken place here. It’s possible to cruise the Grand Harbour, either on a simple and short ride with a ferry taking you from the harbor to one of the three cities, or on a longer and more informative cruise from Sliema, which takes you around the harbor and the harbors of the Three Cities.
If you prefer walking tours, here’s a few highly-rated ones:
- Valletta: Private Walking Tour From Grand Harbour
- Valletta: Guided Walking Tour with St. John’s Co-Cathedral
- Valletta City Walking Tour
3. Dance At The Isle Of MTV
The Isle of MTV annual music festival has been held in Malta since 2007, with various genres being played during the festival. It is among the smallest festivals in Europe, and entry to the festival is entirely free of charge. Notable acts such as Maroon 5, Enrique Iglesias, Lady Gaga, OneRepublic, David Guetta, Snoop Dogg, will.i.am, Jessie J, Jason Derulo, Wiz Khalifa, The Chainsmokers, and Bebe Rexha, have performed at the festival over the years. The one day festival is guaranteed to be a blast with its star-studded list of performers, and the free entry is simply an icing on top of the cake.
4. Delve Into The Lascaris War Rooms or Original WW2 Bunker
Also located in Valletta, the Lascaris War Rooms’ underground tunnels and bunkers are incredibly interesting places to see in Malta for a history buff. They were built in 1940, during the Siege of Malta, by the British, and was completed by 1943. The underground wasn’t built by the British from start the finish, as they expanded on already existing tunnels, which had been originally used as slave quarters back in the days of Order of Saint John.
Since World War 2, these bunkers have also been used by NATO. Today they are privately owned and are open for public viewing, with reconstruction currently taking in place, with the aim to eventually open up a Military Heritage Centre that would also include other sites beyond the war rooms and bunker.
PS: A stop here is included in the World War II Malta Full-Day Walking Tour.
5. Discover Ħaġar Qim
The Ħaġar Qim Temples, located on Malta’s southern edge, are some of the most ancient religious sites on Earth, making visiting the place among some of the biggest things to do in Malta that you can’t pass up on. Ħaġar Qim is a megalithic temple complex, dating back as far as 3600-3200BC. Because it was built using globigerina limestone, the second oldest stone found on Malta, the structures have suffered some damage over the course of its long history, but they remain a magnificent site even today. There’s plenty to discover at Ħaġar Qim, such as indications for fertility rituals and animal sacrifices. However, no human bones or burial sites have been discovered in the area, or at any other Maltese temples, for that matter.
If you don’t want to navigate to the temples on your own, these tours will take you there: Malta Full-Day Private Sightseeing Tour and Prehistoric Temples of Malta Tour.
6. Dive to the Shipwreck of HMS Maori
Named after New Zealand’s indigenous Maori people, HMS Maori was a destroyer serving for the United Kingdom Mediterranean Fleet during World War 2. She was a Tribal-class destroyer, in which gear emphasis was more on guns rather than torpedoes, and she served in the war for approximately four years, until in 1942 she was bombed and sunken by an German aircraft in front of Malta’s Grand Harbour. She was raised from the depths in 1945, and today HMS Maori serves as a popular dive site. As much of its structure has survived until the present day, including some of the gun bases, it is an intriguing site to dive to. Additionally, some spectacular marine life can be found at the dive site. For more information, see their website.
7. Eat Fish in Marsaxlokk
Marsaxlokk (pronounced marsa-schlock) is a traditional fishing village where colorful boats clutter the bay and the shore facing street is lined with fresh fish restaurants.
Popular amongst tourists, it’s best to go to Marsaxlokk on Sunday when the open-air local fish market sells the morning catch. You can choose to make your own purchases to cook up at your leisure or instead just pick one of the many roadside restaurants to indulge in a selection of the finest fish. We opted for the latter of the two.
Looking for a fish restaurant in Marsaxlokk? Try the fresh fish carpaccio at Tartarun or the catch of the day at Roots.
Book a Tour: Blue Grotto & Sunday Market at Marsaxlokk Fishing Village
8. Enjoy The Tarxien Temples
Dated as having been built sometime around 3150 BC, visiting the Tarxien Temples is another one among the historical things to do in Malta. Also a megalithic temple complex, these temples, all of which are separate, but at the same time attached structures, were built using limestone. The first of these temples has the most detailed decoration among all of Malta’s temples.
The middle temple is also unique among Malta’s temples, in its case because it has three pairs of apses, which is more than the other temples have. The Tarxien Temples are especially popular and interesting for their stonework, which include using relief technique, as well as screens filled with spiral designs as well as other patterns.
The Private Half-Day Archeological Sites Tour takes you to Tarxien, plus Hagar Qim, Ghar Dalam and Mnejidra.
9. Explore Fort St. Elmo
Another site located within Valletta, Fort St. Elmo commands the space right at the tip of Valletta, standing right at the shore of the Sciberras Peninsula. It made its mark in history during the Great Siege of Malta, after which it was reconstructed and modified multiple times over the centuries, also taking part in World War 2. Finally, in 1972, Fort St. Elmo officially retired from military use. Since then, Fort St. Elmo has been in danger of deteriorating significantly due to lack of regular maintenance, but restoration efforts have since begun taking place. Today Fort St. Elmo serves as Malta’s National War Museum, including exhibitions showcasing Malta’s military history from as early on as Bronze Age to the early 2000s.
10. Explore Ghar Dalam Cave And Museum
Found close to the seaside in Malta’s southern parts, this cave even features bone remains of animals that got trapped, and therefore ended up becoming extinct in Malta, during the Last Glacial Maximum. The cave is named after a prehistorical phase in Malta called Ghar Dalam, and the cave is also described to be one of the most significant national monuments on Malta. In addition to the bone remains, the cave also houses the very earliest evidence of humans on Malta, dating back as much as 7400 years ago. As a whole, the cave goes as deep as 144 meters; however, visitors to the cave and museum can only access the first 50 meters.
11. Explore Mnajdra
Mnajdra is another megalithic temple complex on Malta, located just 500 meters away from Ħaġar Qim. It was built somewhere along 4000-3001BC, on coralline limestone, which is harder in comparison to the limestone used to build Ħaġar Qim. It consists of three temples, each built during a different time period, with the lowest temple being not only the most impressive but the best showcase of Maltese megalithic style of architecture. Due to how the lowest temple aligns astronomically, it is assumed it served some sort of function as an astrological observation center. No written records of these structures’ purpose exist, but some ceremonial objects have been found by archeologists.
12. Explore the Silent City of Mdina
Mdina is the old capital of Malta and referred to as the “Silent City”. It’s not to hard to understand why. There are limited cars that can enter to immaculate town, mostly owned by the approximately 300 residents. This contributes to the peaceful atmosphere as you stroll through the narrow cobbled streets admiring the shuttered windows and a handful of quaint shops.
For a special evening, dine at The Mdina Restaurant, which specializes in Mediterranean and local cuisine, like the Stuffat Tal-Qarnit, a traditional stew consisting of octopus cooked in red wine, raisins, apples and roasted walnuts.
It’s easy to explore Mdina on your own, but if you want to make sure not to miss anything then take one of these tours:
13. Go Cave Diving In Comino
The Santa Maria Caves are another worthwhile site to visit in Comino besides its famous Blue Lagoon beach. You can go snorkeling in these cases, as well as visit them by boat, but you can also commit to a fun afternoon of cave diving there! Each activity offers their own flare for enjoying and making the best of your time in these caves. In addition to the caves, you can also dive to the wreck of P31, which is a sunken patrol boat.
Diving through the caves is an interesting and beautiful experience on its own already, but you can finish it off with a bit of a cherry on top of the cream cake: feeding some fish!
Book Comino in advance: Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and Seacaves Tour
14. Go Horse Riding At Golden Bay
Golden Bay Horseriding is a horse riding school located nearby the Golden Bay beach, one of Malta’s best beaches, after which it is also named. The provide daily trekking rides lasting around 1 hour, which takes you through a historic nature park in Malta’s Northwestern region. These treks are offered in the morning and mid-afternoon. You can also go on a sunset ride along the cliffs and the coastal line, even catching views of Gozo as you go. Whether you are a young child or an elderly person, or anything in between, this horse riding activity is designed to be accessible, doable, and fun for you.
15. Go inside Grandmaster’s Palace
The Grandmaster’s Palace is located right in the center of Valletta, commanding an entire city block for itself. It was built between the 16th and 18th centuries, mixing Late Renaissance and Baroque styles together, and it was originally built for the Grand Master of the Order of Saint John. Today the palace houses Malta’s president’s official office. Parts of the palace are also open to the public in the form of a museum; this specifically means public access to the State Rooms as well as the Palace Armoury, which was the main armory used by the Order of Saint John back in the day.
16. Go on a Day Trip To Gozo
Although Gozo isn’t a destination that can be tackled thoroughly in just one day, if you truly want to go through all the best things to do in Malta, a day trip to Gozo – if you don’t have the time for anything more – usually tops that list. You can get around by public transportation, but you’ll be better off renting your own car or joining a hop on hop off tour. Your itinerary for the day will likely depends on your specific interests, but some of Gozo’s most popular attractions include the Ggantija Temples, the historical fortified city of Victoria, the red sanded Ramla Bay, Dwerja Bay, and The Basilica of Ta’ Pinu.
For some extra bucket list adventure, take one of these tours: Gozo Full-Day Jeep Tour with Lunch and Powerboat Ride or Gozo: Full-Day Jeep Safari with Buffet Lunch and Wine.
17. Marvel At Rotunda of Mosta
The Rotunda of Mosta is a majestic neoclassical sight located next to a busy street in city of Mosta. The Rotunda of Mosta has the third largest unsupported dome in the world, with much of Mosta’s structure design being based on Rome’s Pantheon. Mosta is also the most famous and largest temple in Malta. The original church was built in early 17th century, and in mid-19th century construction on a larger church, built around the original smaller church, began. In 2018, Pope Francis gave the church the decree of minor basilica. Although this site is not among the most popular places to visit in Malta for tourists, it is a gorgeous attraction for anyone attracted to beautiful architecture and old churches.
Here’s a top tour that goes there: Mosta, Crafts Village, Mdina & Valletta Full-Day Tour
18. Play at Popeye Village
Who doesn’t love Popeye? Popeye Village, also known as Sweethaven Village, may look like just some rustic and ramshackle buildings, but it is so much more. The film set of the 1980 musical “Popeye” has come a long way over the years. Today, it is a fun attraction for young kids and the young at heart (me!!).
Visitors are greeted by none-other than Popeye himself and his fun friends who may just let you be a movie star for the day. There are also water trampolines, an indoor jump around, boat rides, sunbathing and wine for the adults (now you’re speaking a language I can understand!). Eat your spinach and head on over.
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19. See Malta from the Highest Point: The Dingli Cliffs
Located in Malta’s northern region, the Dingli Cliffs are great sights to see in Malta, the whole area offering a vastly different impression of Malta than you’d get in Valletta, for example. At 250 meters above sea level, they offer the highest point of Malta, with open sea views to admire for miles on end. From Dingli, you may also catch a sight of Filfla, a tiny uninhabited island off the coast of Malta. In general the Dingli Cliffs operate as an excellent vantage point of Malta, with additionally offering views of sites such as Buskett Gardens and Verdala Palace.
If you want an extra special experience, then take the Guided Segway Adventure Tour that will the best views from the cliffs.
20. See Ta’ Pinu Basilica
As I briefly mentioned above, Ta’ Pinu Basilica is one of the most popular sights to see on Gozo Island. It is a Roman Catholic church dedicated to the Blessed Virgin of Ta’ Pinu. In addition to being designated a minor basilica, it has also been honored the designation of a national shrine. It is located somewhat far from everything else, but in turn offers some amazing views of the more rural Gozo around you.
It is actually unknown when the basilica was built, but began gaining significance during the 16th century. Partly this was because at that time it was ordered to be demolished; an order which was quickly taken back once a workman broke his arm during the very first blow to demolish the church.
21. See The Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel
Another Valletta-based attraction, the Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel is a famous church built around 1570. It received its name from operating as a church for the Carmelites, which was a Roman Catholic mendicant religious order, during the 17th century. It was elevated to the decree of a minor basilica in late 19th century.
Sadly, the original church got badly damaged during World War 2, so much of the basilica that is seen today is works of reconstruction and rebuilding. Due to its central location, it’s an easy site to cross off your bucket list even if it doesn’t top your list of interests. If you do go inside, you’ll get to see the 17th century painting Our Lady of Mount Carmel. For more information, see their website.
22. See The Panoramic View at Upper Barrakka Gardens
Some of the best things while traveling (and in life) are totally free. This is definitely the case with the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Malta’s capital city of Valletta. It offers the public beautifully landscaped grounds to stroll through and a stunning panoramic view of the Grand Harbour.
Built atop a bastion, every day at noon characters dressed in British Artillery uniforms with fire a salute from the canons below.
23. Soak in a Natural Pool Near Dwejra Bay
Even with the loss of the Azure Window in March of 2017, Gozo is a Maltese island where the beauty never ceases to amaze. Near the remains of this famous arch, you can still swim in a natural wonder that sits along Malta’s characteristically rugged landscape. The natural pool is now the draw for many, and the layers of turquoise waters will entice you to take a dip.
Book A Tour: Full-Day Gozo Island Excursion from Malta
24. Step Inside St. John’s Co-Cathedral
I’ve seen a lot of churches around the world, but St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta was one of the most magnificent. This gem was built in the 16th century for the Knights of St. John and boasts an eye-catching Baroque style. It is also home of a famous Caravaggio painting.
25. Swim in Comino’s Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is a large “swimming pool” whose aquamarine colored sea is postcard worthy. This water-lover’s paradise can be found on the island of Comino. At under four square kilometers, it is car-free and virtually uninhabited. That fact and the azure waters draw quite a crowd of day-trippers, so get there early!
You can take a ferry from Gozo or the mainland in Malta to get there or simply book a day tour that has a pickup directly from your hotel. Here’s a couple good ones:
26. Take A Dip In The Beautiful St Peter’s Pool
While not a traditional beach setting, the St Peter’s Pool, located nearby Marsaxlokk, is a gorgeous natural site to see in Malta. It is a swimming pool made and shaped by nature itself. The crystal clear, turquoise waters are enticing to jump into, and some awesome snorkeling opportunities are provided once you’re in the water.
Or if jumping in isn’t your idea of fun, there’s a ladder with which you can get down, as well! You do need to take note of the fact there are no facilities at the site, so pack with you everything you might need, and then perhaps continue your day by visiting some of the close by towns and villages, such as the fishing village Marsaxlokk.
27. Take In A Show At Manoel Theatre And Museum
Built in mid-18th century, Manoel Theatre is one of the oldest working theaters in Europe. Among the Commonwealth Nations, it is the oldest theater that is still in operation today. So, although the theater is small in size, it sure bursts in the amount of history it carries within its walls! It is the home to Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, and is typically likened as Malta’s national theater.
You can catch a variety of different kind of shows at the theater`, such as operas, recitals and readings, and even pantomime, plus of course theater productions conducted in either Maltese or English.
28. Tour Casa Rocca Piccola
Another magnificent sight to see while in Valletta is Casa Rocca Piccola, which is another palace you can find tucked away on Valletta’s pebbled streets. It was built in the 16th century, and it is the home of the de Piro family, a noble Maltese family with origins dating back to the 16th century, when came to Malta from Italy and settled down at this palace.
Today the palace operates as a museum, housing furniture, art, and silver from Malta and around Europe. In the Archive Room, you can find detailed records of the de Piro family. Additionally, Casa Rocca Piccola is also home to the largest antique costume collection in Malta.
29. Tour The Ggantija Temples
The Ggantija Temples are one of the prime places to see on Malta’s Gozo Island. Built during the Neolithic period, this megalithic temple complex was built using limestone. This complex is the second oldest manmade religious structure existing in the entire world, with them serving as ceremonial sites for fertility rites.
The complex consists of two complete temple structures, as well as a third one that was left incomplete before the temple site’s use was abandoned. Designated as a World Heritage Site in 1980, the temple complex was rehabilitated in the early 2000s, and opened up for the public as a heritage park in 2013.
30. Visit Auberge De Castille
This baroque style auberge was built in the mid-18th century, and is located at the highest point of Valletta, right next to the Upper Barrakka Gardens, overlooking Grand Harbour. It houses the office of Malta’s prime minister since the year of 1972.
Due to its perfectly symmetrical façade, it is regarded as one of the finest works of architecture in Malta, and the façade alone does warrant a trip to visit Auberge De Castille, perhaps while you’re also visiting the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Underground, the auberge also contains an air-raid shelter built during World War 2, which connects it with Auberge d’Italie.
31. Visit Gardjola Gardens
Located in Senglea and offering amazing panoramic views of several Maltese destinations – Valletta, Marsa, Grand Harbour and Fort St. Angelo to be specific – the Gardjola Gardens are some of Malta’s best gems hidden in plain sight. Meaning that for whatever reason it is not as popular or known among tourists than many other sights in Malta; which, in my opinion, only makes it all the more attractive to visit! The gardens were built in 1551, and can make for a relaxing place to go have a break and a breather in amidst being busy hustling about to see everything on Malta.
32. Visit Malta National Aquarium
Malta National Aquarium can be found at Malta’s northeastern side, in the town of Qawra. The aquarium is a home to more than 175 different species, ranging from fish, reptiles, Mollusca, and insects to other types of animals. The building’s shape is built to resemble a starfish, and the aquarium is open for visitors every day of the week. This aquarium is one of the most visited sights in all of Malta, especially among families with children. Entrance fee per adult is less than 14€ and one child will cost 7€ for entry. Several family packages are also offered, depending on the size of family.
33. Visit Palazzo Parisio And Gardens
Palazzo Parisio, standing in Malta’s Naxxar, is a relatively new structure in Malta in comparison to many other entries on this list, as it was only built during the 20th century. Some of the first structures on the site were already built in mid-18th century, when it served as a hunting lodge, but also as a residence and a college.
The present Palazzo Parisio, named after the hunting lodge’s builder, was design and built in the very early 1900s, following the Art Noveau style of architecture in much of its exterior, and Baroque in its interior. The palace is open to the public today, with especially its gardens gathering a lot of admiring eyes.
34. Visit The Beautiful St Paul’s Church & Grotto In Rabat
St. Paul’s Church is the Parish church for the town of Rabat, designated as minor basilica. Originally the town lines of the site the church was built on also included Mdina. This church, which was built in the 17th century, wasn’t the first church on the site, but it has ended up being the one to continue standing strong until modern times. The Grotto is said to have been where St. Paul lived and preached in during his tenure in Malta in 60 AD. The site is seen as so famous and significant that even the Pope visited there in 2010.
35. Visit The National Museum Of Archeology
Located in the Auberge de Provence building in Valletta, the National Museum of Archaeology attracts intrigue already before you’ve walked in, with its elaborately decorated Baroque style exterior. Indoors you can find exhibitions and collections of ancient artifacts, from times as long ago as 5000 BC, until 400 BC. It houses some artifacts found at Malta’s other ancient sites, namely its various temples. If you are a history buff, this museum may offer you the perfect introduction to Malta’s ancient history, after which you can go discover all of the temples and other old sites the country has got to offer.
36. Wander Around San Anton Gardens
Lastly, the San Anton Gardens are among one of the most gorgeous gardens you could set your eyes on in Malta. They offer a diverse selection of flowers and other plans, having been open for public visitors since 1882. It was built to accompany San Anton Palace, the summer residence of Grand Master Antoine de Paule, with the palace being the residence for Malta’s president today. Some of the trees you’ll pass by and admire while at the gardens are more than 3 centuries old. Besides Gjardola Gardens, the San Anton Gardens offer perhaps some of the most relaxing moments for travelers while in Malta.
37. Visit the Three Cities of Cottonera
Be transported back in time with a visit to the three fortified cities of Cottonera; Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua. Jutting into the waters of the Grand Harbour, the inlets of these maritime towns have been used since Phoenician times. Today the are filled with swanky yachts and surrounded by picturesque homes (my kind of place!).
The most common way to see the Three Cities is to take a sightseeing boat ride, but for a more unique experience try a self-guided tour with the Rolling Geeks. With you at the wheel, their electric carts direct you where to go and give you a history lesson on the way. It make it easy to tour at your own pace, stopping longer at the sites that interest you.
38. Wander The Streets of Valletta
No trip to Malta would be complete without exploring the UNESCO World Heritage streets of Valletta. The capital city is not only home to St. John’s Co-Cathedral (see #7), but also home to charming narrow streets, trendy restaurants and Upper Barrakka Gardens which boasts a panoramic view of Grand Harbour (see #3).
Walk the hilly streets and keep an eye out for the colorful enclosed balconies that date back to the early 17th century.I absolutely fell in love with them and have 100s of photos to prove it!When your feet start to get tired (and they will!), pop into one of the many cafes. My favorites were Trabuxu, Taproom Brasserie, Zero Sei and Guze Bristro.
39. Visit the Ħal-Saflieni Hypogeum
Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum is an UNESCO World Heritage underground burial site that dates back to the Saflieni phase (3300 – 3000 BC).It is believed that over the years around 7,000 people have been buried throughout the chambers. The fascinating subterranean structure only allows a handful of visitors each day, so make sure to book well in advance.
Don’t miss the other popular temples in Malta: Hagar Qim, Mnajdra and Ġgantija Temples
WHAT TO EAT + DRINK
40. Dine at Traditional Maltese Restaurant
Traditional Maltese food is a blend of cultures — you will spot the rustic flavors from Britain, Sicily and even a dab of France. Many restaurants create a delicious fusion of old world meets new, but find yourself a truly authentic Maltese food experience where you can get a rich rabbit stew, stuffed bundles of beef slowly braised (Bragioli) and a plate of the mild Ġbejna cheese.
One of my favorite traditional meals was at Ta’ Kris in Sliema, where they are known for their classic Bragioli. But, I absolutely loved the Maltese Salad with Ġbejna cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, Maltese sausage, olives, beans, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions and capers. I am still dreaming about this salad!
DON’T MISS: Go to Nenu the Artisan Baker for the traditional Ftira, a type of Maltese bread to die for!
41. Drink a Local Ċisk Beer
The locally brewed Ċisk (pronounced Ch-isk) beer is the most popular on the island of Malta. Though there are plenty of other options, the golden-colored lager is very refreshing on warm day by the sea. Plus, it is low-carb!
42. Eat Lots of Pastizzi
A popular fast-food for the Maltese is a savory pastry called pastizzi. This tasty treat is typically filled with either mushy peas or ricotta (the latter of the two was my favorite!).
There are plenty of pastizzeria’s to grab a quick one at, but one of the best known is Crystal Palace in Rabat where a crispy cheese snack will cost you a whopping 30 cents. It’s a tiny hole in the wall where the locals hang out, which adds to the charm.
43. Go Wine Tasting
When you first land in Malta, you wouldn’t think that it would have a wine growing region. But, it does! And they actually produce some really nice wines. We went wine tasting at one of the upper echelon wineries, Meridiana.
You will see the Meridiana vineyards wine listed on almost every restaurant in Malta. Their biggest seller is the Isis Chardonnay, but their Mequart Cabernet/Merlot blend won me over. Book a tour and tasting to find your favorite.
Maltese wine is typically the cheapest on a restaurant’s menu, but don’t get the idea that it is inferior!
Isn’t it incredible how many things to do in Malta there are, considering the size of the whole country?! And yet, Malta is a country that is filled to the brim with interesting history – much of which none of us probably learned in school! – in addition to which it’s simply incredibly beautiful. Having an adventurous time in Malta comes almost naturally, and the fact the little island has around 300 sunny days a year sure doesn’t cast a shadow over that, either. In fact, Malta makes for an excellent place to visit any time of year, and it’s versatile enough to work for just about any type of a traveler, too. Have you ever planned to visit Malta before now? Which of the places on this list sounds like the most exciting thing for you to do once there?
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What a lovely post really it is very fascinating thank you for sharing such a nice post with all the relevant information about Malta.
Such as a really great post. It’s help to what thing to do in Malta.
Excellent post! The streets in Malta look beautifully quaint, and that blue water in the Blue Lagoon brings me back to my travels in the Bahamas…stunning, crystal clear water in a gorgeous spectrum of shades. And good job exploring the local gastronomy – everything looks amazing!
The water in the Bahamas is definitely similar!
Would love to visit Malta on our tour of Europe. The turquoise waters look so refreshing. Plus the food looks delicious too and only 30 cents for local delicacies! Sounds perfect!
I highly recommend it and it is super easy to get to from most major cities in Europe!
There’s seriously a Popeye Village? Cute! Also, I absolutely love free “view” points! I always try to visit places with great views of the city :) Even better when they don’t require too tiring a hike lol
Ha! I hear ya! It’s nice when something is free and easy :)
Malta is beautiful! nice and helpful list :)
Lovely mallta, land of my birth, every body should go and enjoy delicious food and the warmth of the Maltese people
You were born in a beautiful place!
Make it at least 15 things to do
15 : Visit a local village festa during festa season, it is a must
Good article , well done
Thanks for the addition!
The most amazing place I visited was St Peter’s Pool. It’s off the beaten track but well worth the effort. Natural rock formations of pools with crystal clear water. Haven’t seen anything like it anywhere in the world.
I have never heard of that, but it definitely sounds bucket list worthy!
What a great source of info! I am going to Malta for 2 days only, but I am so excited about my flight tomorrow :D will go to at leasy 3-4 places that you’ve recommended
Enjoy Malta!!! It is an incredible place to explore, and please eat a tuna ftira sandwich for me!
Great..Thank you sharing some relevant post about malta.
Do you have any other suggestions on where to stay? Hotel Fontina is closed until June 2020
Thanks for letting me know! I just updated that section:
There are many different areas to stay in Malta, but I found Sliema conveniently located near tons of restaurants, the Valetta ferry and easily accessible to the tour boat departures. The beautifully restored Palazzo Violetta is a centrally located boutique hotel right on the border of Sliema and St. Julians. A budget-friendlier choice in Sliema would be Three Pillows Boutique Hostel where you can opt for a private room or shared.
In St. Julian’s, Hotel Valentina is a romantic hotel steps from Paceville and Portomaso Marina. And in Valletta sleep in luxury in the beautiful B&B, Ursulino Valletta.
I hope that helps!!
Malta is truly a golden haven for tourists because of the ton of great places and fun things that you can do on this magnificent island. There’s something for everybody. Plus, most of the hotels, restaurants, and sites there are very affordable as well. I bet you had a blast during your stay. Your pictures look absolutely lovely.
Cool list. I would add participate in festa.
Thanks for the suggestion!
I’m from Malta I went back after 40years as we about to land I looked out at the view and tears just rolled out and the when I step onto the ground I just wanted to kiss it (but I didn’t) I sobbed I’m home even though Australia is my home something made me feel this way ..Yes the people are so relaxed welcoming and I felt soon much pride even when they laughed at me with my Aussie accent speaking Maltese. Getting around is very easy the buses are so good I just love I fell in love with my beautiful home land.
Oh boy, what a beautiful testament to an amazing country!
Malta ?? is like my second home
I’m born in Australia ?? but when I go back all my parents relatives really go out of there way to make me feel comfortable and welcomed
I love it ?
I’d love a Maltese wife
Wow this is a great list I’m leaving for Malta tomorrow !!!
I came to the US when I was 2, on my birthday, that was 50 years ago and I have only been back when I was 16! Now I am taking my dad who is 80 back to see his family who is all there and my daughter to she her Heritage!! So excited thanks for the list and all the other suggestions too!
How exciting!!! I hope you have an amazing trip, Malta has so much to see and do.
Hello Annette White, your comments and blogs are so helpful as I plan to live in Malta for 3 months. Not sure when yet, but I’m gearing up for the experience. However as I will be staying 3 months, I will need a long term apartment, not a hotel or short term apartment. Can you tell me who to contact to find a long term apartment? Thank you kindly. JUDY, Australia.
I would look at AirBnb.com
There are lots of long term rentals there.
I’d say that visiting Gozo is an absolute must if you decide to go on a trip to Malta. Thanks for sharing your fun adventure. Your pictures look amazing.
This missed the unbelievable megalithic temples – 5000 yrs old!
try the Pub crawl at pubcrawlmalta.com
Beautiful post. How many days would you recommend?
At least 4-5, but a week would be better in order to do everything.
Hi Annette,
This was a great post! Marsaxlokk was one of my favorite places in Malta. I didn’t get to Popeye Village this time around, but it’s on my to-do list for next time. Did you by chance get to visit Marsaskala? I had an Airbnb there and it was a stunning little town on the water, away from the tourist crowds.
Unfortunately, I did not make it there. A good reason to go back!
Hi! I’m planning to make a very last minute trip for three days to Malta. Do you think it’s safe for a 24th woman to go alone and do a tour during the night? How does the transportation work?
I like the post very much by the way!
Anything can happen anywhere, but I did feel safe there. Just use normal precautions that you would use at home.
Crashing a wedding is also a really fun Maltese bucket list adventure churches are amazing
I nearly visited Malta at the end of this summer but gave up in the end because I couldn’t find well-located accommodation. Now, I’m starting to consider it for a short New Years’ Eve holiday and this post is great for planning it: you listed some interesting places, that I didn’t find about when I did my own research.
I live in Malta and thought I’d seen everything but apparently not according to this list, Thanks for the inspiration- time I got out and started exploring my home territory again :)