Top Things to Do in Malta: 20+ Ideas for Your Trip

Top 10 things to do in Malta

1. Wander around Mdina

Go back in time while you wander around the winding cobbled streets and beautiful monuments of the age-old walled city of Mdina.

Perched on a hill overlooking the island of Malta, Mdina is a must-see when you visit Malta. Named the ‘Silent City’, Mdina is known for its medieval architecture and serene atmosphere. It has played host to the Romans, Phoenicians, Arabs, the Knights of St. John, and even the French.

Top must-sees and must-dos in Mdina

• Get lost in the narrow streets full of history.
• Awe at the richly decorated interiors of St. Paul’s Cathedral. This Baroque cathedral, rebuilt after a violent earthquake in 1693, is a remarkable landmark that can be seen throughout the centre of Malta Island.
• Enjoy an ice cream in the shade while admiring the panoramic view from Bastion Square. TIP: Fior di Latte, a small ice cream parlour, can be found in the corner of the square and makes for the perfect break in summer.
• Sample some of the best sweets on the island with a panoramic view at Fontanella Tea Garden.
• Discover hidden gems, like the Chapel of St. Roque and Palazzo Falson.
• Have a short walk in the Mdina Ditch Garden.
• Come back at night for a more mysterious atmosphere!
• Explore Rabat and its catacombs, Mdina’s neighbouring town, located a short walk away.

Recommended activities and tours

• 2.5-hour walking tour of the highlights of Mdina and Rabat
• Full-day culture & history tour
• Valletta, Mosta, and Mdina night tour.

2. Visit Valletta

Valletta, Malta’s capital city, is an open-air museum full of history and stunning landmarks.

The whole city has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you’re about to find out why. Malta’s capital city, known for its beautiful Baroque style, has 320 monuments concentrated within an area of just 55 hectares. It’s an absolute must-see and undoubtedly one of my favourite places in Malta.

Top must-sees and must-dos in Valletta

• Awe at the jaw-dropping interiors of St. John’s Co-Cathedral.
• Visit the Grandmaster’s Palace, one of the Knights of St. John’s masterpieces.
• Take a break at the Upper Barrakka Gardens and take in the stunning views over the Grand Harbour.
• Wander, go shopping, and sit on a terrace on Merchants Street and its side streets.
• Learn more about Malta’s history at The Malta Experience and immerse yourself in the Knights’ old hospital at La Sacra Infermeria.
• Learn about the military history of Malta at the National War Museum (Fort St. Elmo), where you can learn about Malta’s past across various periods of conflict (including World War 2).
• Visit the splendid Teatru Manoel. You can even attend a show there!

I recommend you also explore these lesser-known places:

• Lower Barrakka Gardens
• Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, dominating the Valletta skyline
• National Museum of Archaeology, for history buffs

Recommended activities and tours

• Majestic Valletta – Half-day tour
• Street Food and Culture Walking Tour of Valletta
• Private Valletta Guided Tour.

3. Dive into the Blue Lagoon on Comino Island

Renowned for its Blue Lagoon, Comino is a small island known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Largely unspoiled by human development, it remains one of Malta’s top attractions. Its pristine waters make it the perfect place to swim and snorkel.

Don’t expect to find yourself alone, though, as this popular little island attracts crowds in summer.

Top must-sees and must-dos on Comino Island

• Swim in a dream setting at the Blue Lagoon, a popular tourist attraction.
• Explore the lesser-known Crystal Lagoon and its mesmerizing colours.
• Escape the crowds and relax on the beach of Santa Maria Bay.
• Set off for an adventure and hike around Comino Island, exploring Saint Mary’s Tower, Santa Marija Caves, and other gems.

Recommended activities and tours

• Blue Lagoon boat trip (best operator)
• Blue Lagoon Sunset cruise (best operator – quieter time of day)
• Private Blue Lagoon boat trips (highly recommended, but pricier)
• Full-day boat trip to the Blue Lagoon
• Beaches and Bays day trip
• Spirit of Malta Catamaran tour.

4. Explore the Three Cities

Across the Grand Harbour from Valletta are three historical and very authentic cities you don’t want to miss.

Birgu (Vittoriosa), Isla (Senglea), and Bormla (Cospicua) sit next to each other and form the Three Cities, also known as Cottonera. Behind their fortified walls, you will find historical buildings, Baroque churches, typical houses, and squares, as well as locals carrying on their daily activities.

Top must-sees and must-dos in the Three Cities

• Cross the Grand Harbour on a traditional water taxi.
• Wander around the typical streets, steeped in history, quieter than Valletta.
• Step back in time at the Collachio Area, the former headquarters of the Knights of St. John, located in the heart of Birgu.
• Discover one of the main attractions of the walled city of Birgu: the imposing Fort Saint Angelo.
• Learn more about the local history at the Malta at War Museum and the Malta Maritime Museum.
• Walk to the end of Isla and enjoy the wide open views from Gardjola Gardens and their watchtower, perched on the opposite side to the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Recommended activities and tours

• Half-day tour + harbour cruise
• Vittoriosa, Cospicua and Senglea Tour with Boat Trip
• 2-Hour vintage bus tour.

5. Relax on one of Malta’s sandy beaches

Malta’s coastline might be mostly rocky, but it still boasts a few beautiful sandy beaches perfect for swimming and relaxing.

Top Malta sandy beaches

• Golden Bay is the most popular sandy beach in Malta. Tourists and locals alike go there for swimming, sunbathing, and watersports. What makes Golden Bay so special is its easily accessible beach featuring golden sand and all the amenities.
• Near it is Għajn Tuffieħa (also known as Riviera Beach), my favourite beach in Malta. It might be less accessible with its long stairs climbing down to the beach, but it is better preserved than Golden Bay and is set in a stunning natural setting while still offering some amenities. Don’t miss the breathtaking views from the tower overlooking the beach before climbing down the stairs!
• On the side is Ġnejna Bay, a secluded and less touristy beach. It features a sandy beach and a rocky part on the right. You can walk on the heights between Għajn Tuffieħa and Ġnejna Bay and take in the amazing panoramic views.
• Mellieħa Bay (also known as Għadira Bay) is the longest sandy beach in Malta. With all the amenities and shallow waters, it is ideal for children.

Recommended activities and tours

• Beaches and Bays Cruise by Sea Adventure Excursions.

6. Take a boat tour around the Maltese Islands

Explore the Maltese Islands from the sea: hidden coves, sea caves, islets, and coastal views.

Top boat tours around the Maltese Islands

• Boat tours to Comino: Even though there are ferries to Comino and its mesmerizing Blue Lagoon, the best way to enjoy them is by taking a boat trip. Several operators can take you to the Blue Lagoon and lesser-known places around Comino that one can only truly enjoy from the sea: Crystal Lagoon, Santa Marija Caves, and other hidden gems. One of the best things to do in Malta!
• Boat tours to Comino and Gozo: Are you short on time but can’t choose between Comino and Gozo? Some well-organised boat tours let you explore both islands in just one day. You will also enjoy scenic views while sailing along the north coast.
• Boat tours to the Blue Grotto: This stunning sea cave is only reachable from the sea. Take a boat ride around the caves to see the sparkling blue of the water and colourful rocks lit by the sunlight.
• Private boat tours: The best option for a more intimate experience in tourist hotspots. You can charter a boat for 2 hours up to a full day, plus you can plan the route together with the captain.
• Valletta harbours boat tours: Taking a boat trip around Valletta is the best way to see its fortifications. You will be sailing into both harbours flanking Valletta.

Recommended activities and tours

• Boat tour to Comino from Buġibba
• Boat tour to Comino from Sliema
• Boat tour to Comino and Gozo
• Blue Grotto and Marsaxlokk combo tour
• Private boat tours
• Valletta harbour cruise.

7. Discover Gozo Island

A trip to Malta would be incomplete without a visit to Gozo, Malta’s sister island. More natural and quieter than Malta, it has a lot to offer.

This smaller island is more rural and is the perfect Maltese getaway for one day or two. From epic cliffs and secluded coves to a walled city and ancient ruins, there’s something for everyone!

Top must-sees and must-dos in Gozo

• The Citadel of Victoria: Victoria (also known as Rabat), the capital of Gozo, is dominated by a walled city called the Citadel. Dating back to circa 1500 BC, it is a must-see in Gozo. Visit the Cathedral and some of the museums, or just wander in its winding alleys. Don’t forget to walk around the city’s walls to take in amazing panoramic views over the whole island of Gozo.
• Victoria’s old town: Gozo’s capital itself is worth a look, with its authentic atmosphere, lively squares, beautiful churches, and many restaurants.
• Dwejra Bay: Natural beauty at its best. This is where the Azure Window once stood. Although the latter collapsed in 2017, there is still plenty to see: Inland Sea, Blue Hole, Fungus Rock, and Dwejra Tower.
• Xlendi: This small village, located southwest of Gozo, is remarkable for its small bay framed by tall cliffs. With its restaurants by the sea, it’s a good place to have a relaxed lunch.
• Basilica of the Blessed Virgin of Ta’ Pinu: Neo-Romanesque church and pilgrimage site set in scenic backdrops. Its parvis is adorned with colourful mosaics representing the mysteries of the rosary. Inside, you will find many ex-votos left by the faithful.
• Ramla Bay: This beautiful beach features red sand contrasting with the blue colour of the Mediterranean. It is surrounded by two caves: Calypso Cave and Tal-Mixta Cave.

Recommended activities and tours

• Gozo Tuk Tuk tour
• Gozo Jeep Safari
• Gozo Quad Bike tour
• Gozo Dune Buggies tour.

8. Visit the Blue Grotto

Take a boat tour through a series of sea caves known for their blue waters and impressive rock formations.

Located south of Malta, the Blue Grotto is actually a complex of sea caves you can discover on a boat trip.

Top must-sees and must-dos on location

• Embark on a boat tour through the various caves and marvel at the vibrant colours of the water and rocks, created by sunlight reflecting off the sandy seafloor below. Prefer the morning as lights and colours are at their best at this time of the day.
• Stop at the ‘Panorama’ bus stop to see the caves from above and capture some memorable photos.
• Take a Blue Grotto and Marsaxlokk combo tour to make the most of your morning.

9. Join a traditional festa

Experience Maltese culture during one of the local village festivals, one of the most unique things to do in Malta!

What is a festa?

A festa is a religious celebration dedicated to a patron saint. Each church is dedicated to a specific saint, and each village celebrates one or two patron saints, depending on the number of churches in the locality.

Top must-sees and must-dos during a festa

• Take a stroll through the village streets and admire the decorations
• Listen to the bands, an important part of the festa celebrations.
• Take part in the procession where, at nightfall, the statue of the saint is carried through the village before returning to the church.
• Watch the colourful fireworks.
• Go inside the church, as it will be beautifully decorated for the event.
• Grab a bite at one of the fast food trucks.
• Try Maltese traditional nougat at the stand.

10. Experience village life

Leave the tourist hotspots and experience a more authentic Malta by visiting a few typical villages.

Top must-sees and must-dos in a Maltese village

• Take a look at the church: Often built in a Baroque style, the parish church is the centre of the village, around which revolves the village life.
• Get a drink or a bite at the Każin (local band club and bar) and watch the local life.
• Have a chat with the locals over a few pastizzi and a glass of milky tea. A great place to do this is Is-Serkin – Crystal Palace Bar in Rabat.
• Discover a traditional game at a Boċċi club (not everywhere, go to Birgu or Birżebbuġa for example).
• Get ‘lost’ in the old centre and narrow streets with their typical houses with brightly-coloured doors and bow windows. Take the time to notice the small details: ceramic decorations, door knockers, and red telephone booths dating back to the British Empire. This is one of my favourite things to do in Malta!
• Stay in a village instead of the most popular tourist resorts and try a B&B run by locals. Watch the village waking up in the mornings and the locals carrying on with their daily activities. Villages tend to be very quiet during nap time and come to life again in the evenings.
• Some typically Maltese villages: Marsaxlokk (one of the few traditional fishing villages with great restaurants offering fresh seafood from the day’s catch) and Rabat. Off the beaten track villages: Siġġiewi, Għargħur (and its Top Of The World), Mosta (and its beautiful Mosta Dome church with Europe’s third-largest unsupported dome), and the ‘Three Villages’ (Attard, Lija, and Balzan).