Not too far south of Italy is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. A crossroad of cultures boasting towering cathedrals, epic fortresses, bustling markets, and breathtaking views… there’s plenty to discover in Malta. Whether you’re visiting for just a few days or you have a little bit longer, this article will cover how to make the most of your trip, featuring all of the must-sees as well as some little-known gems on the island. However, before we explore the top things to do in Malta, let’s run through the island’s background:
- What language is spoken in Malta? Malta has two official languages, Maltese and English. However, over 60% of the island speaks Italian to a conversational level.
- Is Malta part of the UK? Malta has a long history of colonisation and was most recently a British colony. Strolling through the streets of the capital you might even come across some of the iconic red telephone booths, evidence of British colonial influence. However, the country has been independent since 1964.
- Is Malta an island? Malta consists of three main islands and some smaller islets. Malta and Gozo are the largest, and in between is Comino, the smallest.
- Where did Malta get its name? The Greeks called it Melite, because of the abundant presence of bees. Indeed, the country is still a major producer of honey.
- Is it warm in Malta? The climate is never too hot or too cold. In fact, it is a perfect destination for low-season travel, as the climate is pleasant even in late autumn!
Well, now you know a little bit more about the country, let’s get into what you should do while you’re there. We’re going to run through the main cities, and explore options for people of all interests, so strap in!
What to Do & See in Malta
Valletta
We begin our exploration of Malta at its capital, which is located on the largest of the country’s three islands—also known as Malta. Valletta is a lovely compact city, meaning that it’s pretty easy to make your way around on foot. On this fantastic Free Valleta Walking Tour, you can make your way around the city’s main attractions and gain an interesting insight into the country’s fascinating history along the way. Below are the must-see sights:
St. John’s Co-Cathedral
From the outside, St. John’s Co-Cathedral may not blow you away with its austere architecture. However, once you enter the hallowed walls of this cathedral, you’ll be blown away by its highly decorative design. You’ll enjoy wonderfully ornate gilded arches as well as two works by Caravaggio: The Beheading of St. John the Baptist and St. Jerome Writing. Find out why the troubled artist arrived on the island in 1606.
Grandmaster’s Palace
Currently the official residence of the President of the Republic of Malta, this building was erected in 1574 under Jean de Valette, Grand Master of the Order of Malta. It is located in the heart of Valleta, in St George’s Square. There is no better place to learn about the history of the ancient order, as well as to discover the life of the man who founded Malta’s capital. Inside, you’ll find the coats of arms of the Grand Masters, the Armoury Museum, and some richly decorated rooms.
Barrakka Gardens
The Barrakka Gardens is a must-stop on your visit to Valletta. They are divided into two distinct sections, the Upper Barrakka and the Lower Barrakka Gardens, both of which offer fantastic views of the harbour.
It was here that the Knights Hospitaller used to take refuge in meditation—today, they remain one of the finest points in the country to take refuge and relax. The main point of interest is the Saluting Battery, an ancient cannon battery that once a day thunders over the city with a blank shot. While this cannon is now merely ceremonial, it was once an essential defence from the Ottoman Empire.
National Museum of Archaeology
This fantastic museum is located in the Auberge de Provence, a building that once housed the Knights of Malta. Today, it is home to artefacts which date back to the Neolithic period. Special emphasis is placed on the legendary civilisations that erected the temples at the archaeological site of Hagar Qim. The excavations themselves are another must-see in Malta—check them out for yourself on this excursion to the Hagar Qim Temples & Blue Grotto Tour.
Fort Saint Elmo
Fort Saint Elmo is an incredibly imposing and beautiful structure in the city. The mighty walls overlook much of the sea and played a crucial role during the Great Siege of Malta in 1565 attempted by the Ottoman Empire. In this battle, the Knights Hospitaller were put on the back foot, but, against all odds, held out long enough to drive back the enemy. Today the fort houses the National War Museum, a fantastic exhibition which covers 7,000 years of Maltese history going all the way back to the Bronze.
Casa Rocca Piccola
Not far from the Fortress is this charming private residence built 400 years ago by a member of the Knights Hospitaller. Today, you can grab a ticket to the Casa Rocca Piccola to learn about its history and gain an insight into how Maltese noble families lived. Also, some of the bedrooms in the residence have been restored, so the discerning traveller to Valletta can even stay in this palace!
Three Cities
Across from Valletta’s coastline, you’ll find three impressive fortified areas: Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua. These were once small fishing villages, nestled on narrow strips of land, until the Order fortified them. Today, you can explore their charming alleyways on foot and also enjoy stunning views from the sea on a boat tour around Valletta harbour. By booking the Three Cities of Malta tour, you get to experience both in one!
Sliema
Sliema is the modern face of Malta, and one of the most popular to visit, lying just to the north-west of Valletta Bay. This city features a stunning promenade with picturesque views of the Mediterranean, a fantastic selection of shopping experiences, superb restaurants and much more.
Mdina and Rabat
The fortified city of Mdina was Malta’s first capital and is located a few kilometres inland, standing atop a hill. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features centuries of rich history, which have been immaculately maintained, allowing visitors to feel as though they’re stepping into the past! Meanwhile, right on its doorstep, you’ll find the stunning city of Rabat, another site of great historical and cultural value.
St. Paul’s Cathedral
This magnificent Baroque cathedral built between 1697 and 1702 is located in the heart of Mdina. It is famous for its grandiose interior and inlaid marble floors. Directly opposite is the Cathedral Museum, which houses historical artefacts and sacred artwork.
Bastion Square
Mdina, being built on a hill, provides fantastic views of both the Maltese countryside and Rabat and there is perhaps no better viewpoint than Bastion Square. This is a great spot to take photos and enjoy the scenery. This square is also a treasure trove of history, which is constantly bustling with tourists and locals alike.
It should also be mentioned that the mighty fortified walls and ornate gates were used during the filming of several scenes from the HBO series Game of Thrones. If you’re a big fan of the series, you’ll get even more out of this experience.
Rabat Catacombs
St Paul’s Catacombs and St Agatha’s Crypt serve as evidence of Malta’s early Christian era. This intricate network of underground tunnels was used for hundreds of years after its construction. Nearby, you’ll find a spectacular Roman house, known as the Domvus Romana—still featuring very nicely preserved mosaics which are of the standard of those found at Pompeii, making the visit all the more worthwhile.
Wignacourt Museum
The Wignacourt Museum in Rabat is an important cultural and historical institution in Malta. It is named after the Grand Master of the Knights of Malta, Alof de Wignacourt, who was also a patron of Caravaggio. The importance of the museum is not so much linked to the beauty of its architecture, but rather to what is kept in its vaults: the Grotto of St Paul. It seems that it was here that the saint found refuge after a shipwreck, and from here he established the first Christian settlement in the West.
Dingli Cliffs
5 kilometres (3.1 miles) from Mdina and Rabat is the small village of Dingli. This area is renowned for the Dingli Cliffs, parts of which rise up to 250 metres (820 ft) high, making for incredible views of the Meditteranean. If you’re staying in Sliema, join us on this Mdina and Dingli Cliffs day trip to see them for yourself!
Blue Grotto
Also on the south coast of Malta, a little further south than Dingli is perhaps the most famous attraction: the Blue Grotto. Here, you’ll find a number of natural sea caves seemingly carved into a cliff reminiscent of Capri’s Blue Grotto, from which this landmark takes its name. There are several different ways of visiting this iconic site, including this day trip to the fishing village of Marsa Scirocco with a stop at the Blue Grotto. Don’t miss out!
Popeye Village
Popeye Village is one of the most exciting attractions in Malta and one that is especially popular with kids. This was a purpose-built movie set for the iconic 1980’s Popeye film starring Robin Williams—since then, it has been converted into an exciting theme park. Explore the set, and enjoy the village’s game areas, which feature mini-golf, giant Jenga, water games and much more!
Gozo
Gozo is the second largest island in the Maltese archipelago and also has plenty to see and enjoy. Here, you’ll find incredible natural attractions, as well as cultural activities to enjoy. In fact, the island enjoys a remarkable monumental heritage, as we’ll soon mention!
Most people make their way to the island via ferry from the north of Malta, but there are other ways of enjoying this island. If you’re short on time, consider this Gozo day trip from Sliema, which will bring you around Gozo’s most important sites and bring you back to the main island all in one day!
Victoria
The highlight of Gozo’s capital is undoubtedly the fortified citadel that towers over the city. We suggest you climb to the top and admire the landscape from the top of the fortified walls. The city also treats visitors to the little jewels of Baroque art that are its churches. There are many in Gozo, but especially inside Victoria, which residents still call Rabat, its original name.
Ggantija Temples
A highlight of any visit to Malta is a visit to the Ggantija Temples. Here, you’ll find the remains of one of the oldest religious complexes in the world— incredibly, even older than Stonehenge. The complex consists of two adjacent temples surrounded by round walls. What is impressive is the size of some of the stone blocks, which can weigh several tonnes. This is why the site has been called the ‘temple of the giants’ or ggantija in Maltese.
Xlendi
If you love the sea, you can’t skip the fishing village of Xlendi. On the southwest coast of Gozo, Xlendi Bay is just a 20-minute drive from the Gozo Ferry Terminal. Once reserved for women only, it has now become a popular holiday destination. Take a dip at any one of the crystal-clear beaches at the bay, explore the area’s natural caverns or enjoy watersports!
Fungus Rock
Another filming location of theGame of Thrones series, it was here that the wedding between Khal Drogo and Daenerys Targaryen took place. In the scene, Fungus Rock can be seen in the background in Dwerja Bay. From Dwerja, you can enjoy spectacular views of the sea surrounding Gozo.
The Blue Lagoon
Our list of the top spots in Malta ends with the smallest of the three main islands of the Maltese archipelago. Despite Comino’s size, tourists flock to this island in search of what is probably the bluest and clearest water in Malta. The lagoon is ideal for swimming, snorkelling and diving, with the clear water providing the perfect view of the sea creatures which live beneath!
To discover the Blue Lagoon for yourself, book this Gozo & Comino Islands cruise which includes a stop at the Blue Lagoon, during which you can take some time to go for a swim and snorkel in this prime location.
There you have it, the top things to do and see in the beautiful country of Malta. Despite its size, there really is a lot more to see in this beautiful country. So, be sure to check out more tours & experiences in Malta with Civitatis to complete your itinerary and to make the most out of your trip.