Overview
After all the beautiful, lush Mediterranean islands and coasts, to be honest, it is a bit tough to love Malta at first sight. It all depends on when you visit. Going for a classic summer beach holiday? Rather not. Malta is great for a late autumn or early winter break from the stubbornly graying European mainland.
You won’t find nature bliss here – no wild forests or remote sandy coves – but Malta is nevertheless walkable, even hikeable, if you look in the right places. What really sets Malta and its little sister Gozo apart is their cultural richness: beautiful, honey-colored historical cities, centuries of layered history, and a delicious mix of North African, Arabic, and Italian influences that you’ll feel with every step and taste with every bite. And of course, let’s not forget those neon-blue lagoons, where the clarity of the water seems almost unreal.
So if you’re craving UNESCO World Heritage sites, quirky Maltese traditions, dramatic coastline walks, and that dose of unexpected sunshine (even in November!), Malta and Gozo might just surprise you. They definitely did for me.
What to do
- 1 Visit Valletta
- 2 Wander through Mdina
- 3 Explore Rabat and St Paul’s Catacombs
- 4 Discover Marsaxlokk fishing village
- 5 Swim at the Blue Lagoon on Comino
- 6 Explore Gozo
1 Visit Valletta
Valletta stands among the world’s most significant historical cities and holds the distinction of being Europe’s very first purpose-built capital. Its rich heritage and baroque charm have earned the entire city UNESCO World Heritage status. Despite being one of Europe’s tiniest capitals, Valletta truly packs a punch – offering impressive sights and atmosphere that make it perfect for a memorable weekend getaway.
St John’s Co-Cathedral: A Valletta Must-See
From the outside, St John’s Co-Cathedral may appear understated, but step inside and you’ll never forget its lavish interior. Built by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century, this cathedral is truly one of the most stunning in Europe – featuring beautiful marble floors, rich gold details, masterpieces of artwork ( including Caravaggio’s famous Beheading of St. John the Baptist), and dramatic ceiling murals. The entrance fee is €15, and guided walking tours of the city often include a visit to the cathedral. Beware that because the ornate marble floor is very delicate, high heels are not permitted, and all visitors should dress modestly out of respect. Learn more about St John’s Co-Cathedral before you go.
Upper & Lower Barracca Gardens
Both gardens are wonderful spots to unwind. The Upper Gardens offer impressive views, high above the Grand Harbour with sights over the historic ‘Three Cities’: Birgu (Vittoriosa), Senglea, and Cospicua. For just €1, you can take the Barrakka Lift down to the Lower Gardens. Don’t miss the noon tradition – each day, military officials fire cannons (yes, really) in a centuries-old ceremony to honor Malta’s naval history and mark the time.
Grandmaster’s Palace
Dating back to 1571, the Grandmaster’s Palace is one of Valletta’s most significant historic landmarks and was among the first buildings constructed in the city. Over the centuries, it has served as the seat of power for the Knights of St. John, the British governor, and now the Maltese president. Marvel at its majestic courtyard, opulent decor, galleries of art, frescoes, and historic armor collections. Entrance is €6, and it’s absolutely worth a visit!
2 Wander through Mdina
Known as the Silent City, Mdina is one of Malta’s most atmospheric destinations. This ancient walled town sits on a hill, its honey-colored streets winding through centuries of stories, secrets, and so much charm.
Once the island’s proud capital, Mdina today is a peaceful town that’s a moment of calm after Valletta and crowded beaches. It feels relaxing and familiar (you might recognise it as King’s Landing in Game of Thrones!). With only a few hundred residents and strict rules limiting car access, the quiet here is almost tangible. Even better in the evening, after the day-trippers have gone. The old-fashioned lamps are turned on and the city gets even quieter.
Mdina has a lot to offer: an endless palette of beige, hidden cafés, gothic archways, grand stone gates, stately palazzos, and views over the countryside from the city walls. Walk around to soak it in, and try to not miss the three most impressive sights (see below).
St. Paul’s Cathedral
Right in the heart of town, this magnificent baroque cathedral is as grand and beautiful as you’d expect – don’t miss the painted ceiling or the intricate marble-work inside. Get your ticket here.
Palazzo Falson
One of the oldest buildings in Mdina and now a cozy museum. It just feels lived in, full of art, antiques, and personal collections. Check out the beautiful courtyard, too. The entry ticket is 12€, get it here.
Mdina Dungeons
Tucked under the city, these dungeons are a little creepy (in a good way) and bring Malta’s intriguing past to life. It’s fascinating, especially if you love a bit of dark history.
3 Explore Rabat and St Paul’s Catacombs
Rabat has a very interesting past. This town was once famous for protecting itself against pirate raids. There’s so much history in its quiet streets, and probably the most interesting is the Catacombs.
St Paul’s Catacombs are an extensive complex of interconnected Roman-era underground burial sites. They provide a fascinating glimpse into early Christianity in Malta. The catacombs feature narrow passageways and chambers, and exploring them gives an insightful perspective on the way early Maltese Christians lived and died. Entry is €5 and it feels a little like entering another world.
4 Discover Marsaxlokk Fishing Village
Marsaxlokk is a traditional fishing village famous for its colorful luzzu boats and bustling Sunday market. Spend a morning wandering around the harbor, sampling fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants, and soaking up the relaxed seaside vibe. The nearby St. Peter’s Pool is also a great spot for a refreshing dip.
Dive at St Peter’s Pool
St Peter’s Pool is a natural swimming pool located near Marsaxlokk, famous for its crystal-clear waters and stunning rock formations. It’s a popular spot for diving and cliff jumping, with plenty of flat rocks perfect for sunbathing. The turquoise water makes it a top location for snorkeling as well. Keep in mind that access involves a bit of a walk, but the stunning coastal scenery makes it worthwhile.
5 Visit Comino island
Malta consists of three main islands, with Comino being the smallest and most secluded. Between Malta and Gozo, Comino feels like an escape into nature. Its name comes from the cumin plant, which you’ll spot blooming across the island alongside other wildflowers and fragrant herbs. With no real roads and very few inhabitants, Comino is perfect for hiking and getting off the beaten path. You can get here by ferry (the most popular boat leaves from the harbor at Marfa Bay, takes 10 minutes and costs 13 EUR return), or on the Blue Lagoon boat tour via a smaller boat (which may be a bit more expensive, but you’ll have the boat to enter the water from, and you also stop to snorkel at the Santa Maria caves).
See below the top 3 things to do here.
Swim at the Blue Lagoon on Comino
Comino’s Blue Lagoon is perhaps Malta’s most iconic natural attraction. With crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by rugged cliffs, it’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing. Be sure to arrive early, as it gets busy in the summer. You can also take a boat tour to the nearby sea caves, adding to the adventure of visiting Comino and the Blue Lagoon.
Santa Maria Caves
The Santa Maria Caves are especially popular for snorkeling, thanks to the abundance of marine life in the area. Most Comino-Gozo boats stop here,passing through a dramatic cave tunnel from Santa Maria Bay. The water is impossibly blue, so even if you stay on the boat it’s nice to see.
6 Explore Gozo
No trip to Malta is complete without exploring its sister island, Gozo. Known for its more rural charm and slower pace of life, Gozo is home to picturesque villages, lush valleys, and fascinating sites like the Citadel in Victoria. Spend a day exploring the island’s natural beauty, including the impressive Wied il-Mielaħ Window, and make sure to visit the Ggantija Temples – some of the oldest freestanding structures in the world.
How much time you need
1-2 Days | If you’re short on time, you can still see some highlights of Malta. Spend a day exploring Valletta, visiting St John’s Co-Cathedral, and enjoying the views from the Upper Barrakka Gardens. On the second day, head to Mdina to experience its medieval charm before continuing to the Marsaxlokk fishing village for a glimpse of traditional Maltese life.
3-4 Days | With a few more days, you can include additional experiences like a day trip to Gozo, diving at St Peter’s Pool, and visiting St Paul’s Catacombs. You could also add a visit to Popeye Village for some light-hearted fun or enjoy a boat ride to the Blue Lagoon at Comino, famous for its crystal-clear waters.
5-7 Days | A week in Malta lets you see the island in-depth without feeling rushed. In addition to the above, you’ll have time to explore more off-the-beaten-path locations, enjoy the local beaches, or even take a day to relax in Mellieha Bay. This also leaves room to visit more historical sites, like Fort St Elmo, and to take leisurely walks through the streets of Valletta or the serene landscapes of Gozo.
How to get there
By Car | If you prefer the flexibility of driving, Malta is easily accessible by car once you’re on the island. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore everything, from the bustling streets of Valletta to the quieter, rural charms of Gozo at your own pace. It’s an excellent option for those wanting to visit the more remote areas, like the Blue Lagoon or St. Peter’s Pool.
By Plane | The easiest way to get to Malta is by flying into Malta International Airport (MLA), the island’s only airport, located just outside the capital, Valletta. The airport is well connected to major European cities with frequent international flights. From the airport, you can take a bus, taxi, or rent a car to reach your accommodation.
By Ferry | For those already in Southern Europe, Malta is accessible by ferry from Sicily. The journey from Pozzallo or Catania to Malta takes around 1.5 to 4 hours, depending on the ferry service. The ferry arrives at the Grand Harbour in Valletta, making it a scenic way to arrive on the island. This is a particularly good option if you’re planning a multi-country trip that includes Italy.
How to get around
Getting around Malta and Gozo is refreshingly simple, especially for solo travelers. In Valletta, Mdina, and most historic cities, you can explore nearly everything on foot – are all within easy walking distance. For attractions or beaches that are further out, like Golden Bay or the Blue Grotto, your best bet is to take the local bus. The public transport network is affordable, reliable, and connects most towns, but do allow a little extra time, especially during busy hours. Traffic jams can get quite big.
When you need more flexibility or want to discover off-the-beaten-path places, you can use taxis and ride-hailing apps like Bolt. For full freedom to explore Malta and Gozo’s hidden coves and countryside at your own pace, renting a car is of course the best option. Driving is straightforward (just remember, it’s on the left!), and you’ll have access to remote beaches, coastal trails, and places local buses rarely reach.
Where to stay
Which part of the island to stay on? It depends on the kind of trip you want.
Valletta | Perfect if you’re after that vibrant city vibe! Staying in the capital means you’re surrounded by Maltese culture, buzzing bars, and plenty of great restaurants. Just keep in mind, accommodation in Valletta tends to be on the pricier side. See all hotels in Valletta.
Sliema | If you’re watching your budget or love to shop, Sliema is a great choice. It’s also super convenient, with easy ferry access to Valletta (a quick 15-minute ride). Plus, Sliema has plenty of rocky beaches for sunbathing and sea swims. See all hotels in Sliema.
Saint Julian’s | Known for its lively nightlife and foodie scene, this is the best spot if you’re keen to check out Malta’s best bars, clubs, and a huge variety of restaurants. See all hotels in Saint Julian’s.
Birgu (Vittoriosa) / L-Isla (Senglea) | For a quieter, more authentic Maltese experience, stay in one of the historic ‘Three Cities.’ Birgu and L-Isla offer charming new boutique hotels, cozy local restaurants, and a laid-back atmosphere. The new ferry link from Valletta is handy, but if you’re up for an adventure, taking a traditional boat across the harbor is a real highlight! See all hotels in Birgu.
Best hotels in Valletta
Follow the Sun Boutique Hostel (Budget) | Located in the lively Sliema neighborhood, Follow the Sun Hostel is a fantastic choice for solo travelers seeking affordable and sociable accommodation. This design-led hostel features dorm beds and private rooms, a swimming pool, welcoming communal areas, and daily breakfast. It’s walkable to beach clubs, cafés, and all Sliema’s best bus and ferry links. Perfect for meeting fellow vagabonds!
Osborne Hotel (Midrange) | For a comfortable stay in the heart of Valletta, Osborne Hotel offers excellent value in a beautifully restored building. It’s just steps from the old city’s top sights and legendary restaurants. Enjoy the on-site rooftop pool, buffet breakfast, and air-conditioned rooms—ideal for solo explorers wanting convenience and a little pampering after a day in the labyrinthine city streets.
The Phoenicia Malta (Upscale) | If you’re looking to treat yourself, The Phoenicia Malta is a historic five-star gem right outside Valletta’s city gate. This grand Art Deco hotel offers lush gardens, a magnificent infinity pool with harbor views, fine dining, and exceptional service. It’s a favorite among solo female travelers for safety, comfort, and luxury—splurge-worthy for a special Maltese experience.
The Duke Boutique Hotel Gozo (Boutique) | If you’re heading to Gozo, The Duke Boutique Hotel, located in Victoria (Rabat), is a standout. It’s locally owned, stylishly designed, and offers rooftop terraces with panoramic island views. Expect personal touches, delicious breakfasts, and easy access to Gozo’s Citadel and bus stations—making it an ideal base to discover the island’s rural charm at a relaxed pace.
Cost of travel
Transportation Costs | The cost of traveling to Malta will depend on your departure point. Flights to Malta International Airport (MLA) from major European cities can range from €40 to €150, depending on the season and how early you book. Once on the island, a rental car will cost around €25 to €50 per day, depending on the type of vehicle and rental duration. Local bus services are also available and quite affordable, with single tickets costing around €1.50 to €2, and weekly bus passes available for approximately €21.
Accommodation | Malta offers accommodations for every budget. For budget travelers, hostels and basic guesthouses can be found for as little as €25 to €50 per night. Mid-range hotels, including charming boutique stays in Valletta or Sliema, range from €80 to €150 per night. For a more luxurious experience, upscale hotels with sea views and additional amenities can cost upwards of €200 to €400 per night, particularly during peak summer months.
Food and Drink | Dining out in Malta can be both affordable and a culinary adventure. Eating at local cafés or casual restaurants will typically cost around €10 to €15 per meal. Mid-range restaurants, especially those along the waterfront, can range from €25 to €40 per person, including drinks. For a high-end dining experience at one of Malta’s fine dining establishments, expect to pay anywhere from €60 to €100 per person, depending on the restaurant and wine selection.
