How To Spend 7, 10, or 12 Days in Malta: A Complete Itinerary

A view of the Valletta harbor from above. The sandstone buildings contrast the deep blue sea.

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Looking for a complete travel itinerary for 7, 10, or 12 days in Malta? Well, you’re in the right place!

Nestled between Sicily and the North African coast, Malta is one of the most underrated countries in all of Europe.

Don’t let its size fool you… Malta packs a punch with a marvelous mixture of historic cities, gorgeous cliffsides, and relaxing beaches.

We rented a car and explored this amazing country for 12 days. Malta really is the perfect destination for a road trip.

This is especially true for those who travel with chronic pain and fatigue like myself. The drives are short, most roads are in great condition, and you can explore the country at your own pace. Perfect if you travel with chronic pain or fatigue, like me.

Plus, Malta can easily be combined with another European destination, as flight prices are very affordable. We combined Malta with a 3 week trip to Greece.

For the past 10 years, we have created tailor-made road trip itineraries in Italy, Greece, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Namibia, Japan, and now Malta.

In this post, we share our in-depth Malta itinerary so you can choose and customize your own adventure. We have helpful tips on places to visit, things to do, and suggestions on where to stay.

So whether you have 7, 10, or 12 days in Malta, our suggestions will help you craft your own perfect itinerary.

Grab a glass of wine, sit back, and let’s plan your Malta road trip!

One of many pedestrian only streets in Valletta. The street is flanked by tall, ornate buildings.

How Many Days to Spend in Malta?

The duration for any trip depends on your interests, sights you want to see, your budget, and how much time you have off work. As teachers, we get it.

So we are here to answer the big question, how many days in Malta?

Malta is located in the middle of the Mediterranean, which means the best way to get to Malta is by international flight.

To not waste your time and money, you want to spend at least 7 days in Malta.

However, the ideal amount of time for a complete Malta road trip is closer to 10 days.

This allows you to fully explore the attractions, immerse yourself in culture, explore the charming Maltese towns, and enjoy the beautiful beaches.

7 Days in Malta

With 7 days, you will have enough time to visit popular sites like Valletta, Mdina, Marsaxlokk, Comino Island, and the Blue Grotto. Plus, join a walking food tour of Valletta or a snorkeling boat trip.

We recommend at least 2 days in Valletta. This will give you time to explore Valletta, the neighboring 3 Cities, and the Grand Harbor.

Then I would recommend splitting the last 5 days between Gozo and the rest of Malta.

10 Days in Malta

10 days will give you a more relaxed and in-depth exploration of Malta. You will be able to visit more towns and beaches… plus, dine in more amazing Malta restaurants!

I would recommend following our itinerary and just eliminating a town or two that you aren’t as interested in. I know… it will be tough!

12 Days in Malta

We spent 12 days exploring Malta and Gozo. While this may seem like a lot, it will allow you to take your time, enjoy more activities, and go off the beaten path.

You will have more time to visit Gozo, relax on beaches, and visit your “must-do” activities such as diving, snorkeling, fishing, or hiking.

Our itinerary is based on 12 days, but you can customize it as you wish!

Gavin in our white rental car on the side of the road. Driving on the left is one challenge when renting a car in Malta.

Do You Need to Rent a Car in Malta?

Do you absolutely need to rent a car in Malta? No. But should you… YES!

If renting a car works into your budget and itinerary, then I say… do it!

Renting a car in Malta is the best way to explore the island’s stunning coast, picturesque villages, and historic sites on your own schedule.

Although Malta has great public transportation options, some locations are not accessible by bus.

Renting a car offers flexibility, convenience, and comfort. This is especially true if you travel with chronic pain or reduced mobility as I do.

Discover Cars is an excellent site that compares prices between local and international rental companies. They have additional features you can add to your booking, like insurance, GPS, car seats, etc.

They really make renting a car an easy process!

🚗Need a rental car? Check availability & prices:
➡️Reserve your rental car here!

Alright, time to dive into our day-to-day Malta itinerary!

Malta Itinerary Map – Day 1-3: Valletta & 3 Cities

Google map of the first 3 days of the Malta itinerary, including Valletta, the 3 Cities and St. Julian's Bay.

This is a quick Google Map of where we recommend spending the first 3 days of your itinerary. You will not need a car for this portion of your trip to Malta.

Gavin standing on Strait Street, the main walking street that runs the length of the old town.

A man walking on Strait Street. The sandstone buildings all have colorful balconies, an architectural detail only found in Malta.

Day 1-3: Valletta & the 3 Cities

We recommend you begin your Malta itinerary in Valletta. With its proximity to the airport, Valletta is the ideal place to start enjoying Maltese food and culture.

A quick side note, everyone in Malta speaks English… so you can cross that worry off your list.

You won’t have any trouble getting around, checking into your hotel, or booking a boat tour. Huge relief, right?!

How to Get to Valletta

The easiest way to get to Malta is to fly into the Malta International Airport. It is a short 20-minute taxi ride to the capital of Valletta and should cost you around €17.

We don’t recommend renting a car from the airport, as parking in Valletta is extremely difficult to find, and Malta is easy to explore on foot.

Depending on where your hotel is located, the taxi will drop you off as close as possible.

As the old town of Valletta is traffic-free, taxis do not have direct access to many hotels. Be prepared to walk up some steps to your hotel. Thankfully, the rest of the old town is relatively flat.

After checking into your hotel, unpack, and set out to explore the medieval cobble-stoned streets.

✅Helpful Tip: Always schedule at least 2 days in your first location before starting any road trip. This way, you can relax after a long flight, pick up supplies and address any pain you are having.

Valletta

A beautiful view down a quiet walking street. Restaurants have patio seating and you can see the ocean in the distance.

Valletta is an impressive city full of unique architecture not found anywhere else in Europe. As a UNESCO Heritage Site, it is packed with 320 historic monuments, all within 80 hectares!

We recommend scheduling 3 days to explore Valletta and the nearby 3 Cities, so you can truly experience the sights, food, and culture it has to offer.

Since your feet will be your primary mode of transportation for the next few days, make sure you have a good pair of runners to support your neck and back.

👉If traveling in the summer, I recommend these sandals for great support and comfort.

Tall sandstone colored buildings flank a narrow walking street lined with cafes and bars, lights and decorations.

Robyn with a huge smile about to eat her eggplant parmigiana. We are seated in an outdoor table on a quiet street.

For the next two days, wander and get lost in this vibrant city. There are so many things to do in Valletta, including visiting the cute shops and cafes lining the many charming streets.

Merchants Street, one of the pedestrian-only walking streets, runs the length of the historic center.

✅Helpful Tip: Merchant Street is a 4-meter side, mostly flat, and easily walkable. It should be manageable for those with mobility issues.

When you have exhausted your feet and need to fill your belly, there are numerous restaurants to choose from with amazing views of the city.

It can get busy in the evenings, so it may be a good idea to book a table in advance, especially during tourist season.

The Upper Barrakka Gardens at the far end of Valletta with tall trees and a fountain.

Robyn standing in an open plaza in front of a fortified wall and bright orange tree.

Things to Do in Valletta

✔️St. John’s Co-Cathedral: Built-in 1572, it is the jewel of Valletta. Located on Strait Street and is worth a visit on your 12-day trip to Malta.

✔️Upper Barrakka Gardens: At the end of Strait Street, the gardens offer stunning views of the 3 Cities and Mediterranean. Go at sunset!

✔️Saluting Battery: The traditional ceremony where gun salutes are fired at 12pm & 4 pm. Located in the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

✔️Lascaris War Rooms: An underground complex of WWII tunnels and chambers, a perfect activity when it rains.

✔️St. George’s Square: Surrounded by beautiful colonial architecture, it is a great place to relax and people-watch.

The 3 Cities: Vittoriosa, Senglea & Cospicua

A view of the 3 cities from the Saluting Battery in Valletta.

A view of the 3 Cities harbor. Beautiful buildings and churches face the harbor that is full of boats.

Across from the Grand Harbour of Valletta lie the 3 Cities – Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua. These fortified ancient towns are perfect time capsules of authentic Maltese culture.

We loved wandering the 3 Cities and think they are part of what makes Malta special.

From the Upper Barrakka Gardens, take an elevator down to the water level (cost of €1).

A short 10 min boat ride and €8 later, you will be dropped off at the dock. No need to book your return, as there is always someone waiting with a small private boat to bring you back.

Gavin smiling in a narrow street. Tall sandstone buildings and colorful balconies surround him.

A narrow street in the 3 Cities with sandstone buildings.

Now it is time to let your senses guide you.

Whether it be wandering the labyrinth of limestone architecture and bright shutters or admiring the traditional way of life of the local fisherman… take your time and get lost in the beauty.

✅Helpful Tip: You access the main walking streets, you need to walk uphill. But once you do, most streets are flat and easily walkable. If possible, I recommend walking a couple of streets for a different view of the city. Then, slowly wander down to the waterfront restaurants.

There is no need to move hotels, as Valletta is a short water taxi away. So we recommend staying at this amazing hotel in Valletta for 3-4 nights.

This is also a great way to spend less money when you travel. Some hotels offer a discount for a minimum 3-night stay.

At the end of your 3 days in Valletta and the 3 Cities, and before heading to the island of Gozo, we suggest picking up your rental car.

Our hotel helped arrange a rental car for us and had it dropped off as close to the old town as possible.

Now, it is off to the island of Gozo!

A view of the Lucente Hotel from the street. This was our hotel during our stay in Valletta and we loved it.

Our beautifully elegant room in the Lucente Hotel in Valletta.

Where to Stay in Valletta

📍Valletta Lucente: We loved our stay at this quaint hotel located in the historic center. Rooms are quiet and comfortable with a traditional Maltese design, and the homemade breakfast is delicious!
➡️Book your stay at Valletta Lucente now!

👉Read our full Valletta Lucente Hotel review here!

📍Domus Zamitello: Treat yourself to a stay at this restored 17th-century hotel. They offer classic, elegantly designed rooms close to many sights and restaurants. It is ideal for those with mobility issues.
➡️Book your stay at Domus Zamitello now!

Have extra time? St. Julian’s Bay

DRIVE TIME: Valletta – St. Julien’s Bay (17 min total – 7.5 km/4.7 miles)

Although we had to skip St. Julian’s Bay due to time constraints, many choose to visit this picturesque seaside town.

If you have time, we recommend adding it to your 12-day Malta road trip. St. Julien’s can be visited by taxi from Valletta, or after you pick up your rental car.

St. Julian’s has some amazing kid-free hotels if you are traveling as a couple!

👉Read our full Adult Only Hotels post here!

✔️St. Julien’s Bay: Known for its beaches, restaurants, luxury boutiques, and nightlife. Grab your towel, catch some rays and enjoy the Mediterranean.

✔️Spinola Bay: Admire traditional boats while sipping a cappuccino, then visit the historic Spinola Palace, a beautiful Baroque mansion.

Malta Itinerary Map – Day 4-6: Gozo & Comino

Google map of the island of Gozo showing every stop on your Malta itinerary.

The bright, turquoise water surrounding Comino Island. The water is warm and perfect for swimming.

A view of the edge of the island of Gozo. Dry, tiered landscape tumbles into the blue Mediterranean Sea.

Day 4-6: Gozo & Comino

DRIVE TIME: Valletta – Xlendi Bay, Gozo Island (1.5 hrs total – 42.6 km/26.5 miles)
Ferry to Gozo: 25 min

A close up of the front of the ferry that took us from Malta to Gozo Island.

How to Get to Gozo

Thankfully, getting over to Gozo is easy and straightforward. The Gozo Ferry departs from the terminal in Malta every 20 minutes or so. You can check ferry prices here.

You have the option to walk on as a passenger or drive on. You can take your rental car onto the Gozo Ferry.

Just make sure to tell the car rental agency that you plan to take the vehicle to Gozo.

And if you decide to rent a car from Gozo, there are many rental agencies at the ferry dock when you arrive.

👉Read our full Malta Gozo Ferry post here!

A quirky street in St. Paul's Bay with two pink lounge chairs and an old blue and yellow boat propped up against the wall.

The Island of Gozo

As one of 21 islands in the Maltese archipelago, Gozo is packed with interesting places to see. Thankfully, it is smaller in size, so you will have plenty of time to visit all the sights you want!

All the following cities, beaches, and sights are under 30 min drive from Xlendi Bay, which is where we based ourselves. More on that later!

A close up view of the cliff above the swimming hole of Dwejra Bay. The ocean washes water in and out of the swimming hole, a spectacular sight!

The magnificent, sky high cliffs near Dwejra Bay are breathtaking. Gavin is tiny in the distance near the water's edge.

What to Do on Gozo Island:

✔️Dwejra Bay: A 4€ boat ride takes you to where the Azure Window once stood. It is a fantastic spot to check out the cliffs and caves up close!

👉I recommend these water shoes because they are lightweight and comfortable.

✔️Wied il-Mielaħ: This natural limestone rock formation is one of the best “windows” on Gozo, and can be reached by a large handrailed staircase.

✅Helpful Tip: I have trouble with stairs, so keep in mind, it may not be suitable for children, elderly travelers, or people with mobility issues. You can still witness this natural wonder at street level.

✔️Wardija Punic Temple il-Wardija: This temple sits on 120m high cliffs on the southwest tip, and is surrounded by Xlendi Harbor and Dwejra Bay. The towering cliffs dramatically drop into the sea, making for a spectacular sight!

The Marsalforn Salt Pans that sit right beside the ocean on Gozo.

The uniquely, smooth cliffs of Xwejni Bay Beach.

✔️Xwejni Bay Beach: The moonlike landscape of this unique beach was our favorite on Gozo, and another reason why Malta is worth visiting!

The beach is great for swimming and snorkeling, is close to parking and has facilities and restaurants nearby.

✔️Marsalforn Salt Pans: These 300 salt pans are perched above the sea on a small stretch of shoreline just outside the resort town of Marsalforn.

✔️Victoria: The fortified capital of Gozo is known for its medieval Citadella. You can visit free of charge or €5 gets you entrance to four museums.

✅Helpful Tip: If you have mobility issues, parking is available just past the main entrance for €2.

The quiet streets of the town of L-Għarb.

Gavin standing in front of the beautiful church in L-Għarb.

✔️Sannap Cliffs: A favorite among locals and a must-see on any Malta itinerary. These cliffs tower 120 meters above the sea and are a perfect spot to watch the sunset, as different hues paint the jagged cliffside.

✅Helpful Tip: For those that travel with chronic pain and fatigue, or have mobility issues, don’t worry, there is parking nearby!

✔️L-Għarb: Gozo’s oldest village is known for its beautiful architecture and for producing the best cheese on Gozo. We recommend visiting midday. Although it can be hot, we had the entire town all to ourselves!

A blue square with light blue circles on the edges. Inside is sayd, Custom Travel Itineraries. Let us create the perfect itinerary for your travel style.

Comino Island

The most common way to get to Comino Island is to join a large boat tour. Many tours operate from Gozo and the main island of Malta.

If you’re interested in joining a larger tour, there are several options to choose from.

👉This tour combines the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and Sea Caves for the ultimate experience!

The magnificent sea caves surrounding Comino Island.

Two yellow umbrellas sitting on the edge of the pier. We rented a private boat from Hondoq ir-Rummien to tour the caves and Comino Island.

If you prefer a private boat for a more intimate experience, then head to Hondoq ir-Rummien on Gozo. This is the best place to hire a private boat to take you to the island of Comino.

It’s affordable, you have more space to stretch out and the ride can be as long/short as you choose. This is a great option for people with chronic pain and fatigue or those who get seasick.

We chose to do a tour of the Santa Maria Caves before being dropped off on the dock of the Blue Lagoon. There is a restaurant, shop, and facilities on Comino.

Gavin lounging on a towel looking at the bay on Comino Island.

The Blue Lagoon is a gorgeous spot to spend the day at. The crystal-blue waters are shallow and perfect for swimming. There are deeper areas where you can cliff dive into the sea, too!

Unfortunately, this is no hidden gem, and Comino quickly gets overrun with tourists. Since we can only handle crowds for so long, we pre-arranged a return time with our private boat.

Nevertheless, we recommend adding this amazing spot to your Malta itinerary.

The view of Xlendi Bay from our hotel roof terrace.

Where to Base Yourself on Gozo

Gozo is incredibly small, so you can honestly base yourself anywhere.

Touring this island is best done with a car. Most roads are paved and have good signage. So, as long as you are comfortable driving on the left side of the road, driving in Malta is easy.

We based ourselves in Xlendi Bay for our 4-day adventure on Gozo. Prices were reasonable and the driving distance between places was short and pain-free.

Xlendi Bay is also one of the best Malta towns to visit on Gozo. The sandy beach and shallow waters of Xlendi Bay make it a perfect destination and base to explore the island of Gozo.

Surrounded by jagged cliffs and a diverse coral reef, it is also a popular site for snorkeling and diving.

This typical Gozitan fishing village has a decent number of hotels, cafes, and amazing waterfront restaurants. Get ready to sample delicious seafood and catch of the day!

Looking towards the hotel lined beach of Xlendi Bay from the farthest point. Boats are anchored and people are swimming in the bay.

Where to Stay in Xlendi Bay

📍St. Patrick’s Hotel: We loved the amazing sea view and rooftop pool. Although dated, the hotel is clean, comfortable, affordable, and has an elevator. It has beach access, plus parking and breakfast are included.
➡️Book your stay at St. Patrick’s Hotel now!

📍Santa Lucia Boutique Hotel: Don’t need the beach? Consider this beautiful hotel with spacious rooms, and a pool and hot tub with excellent views. It offer free parking and an optional breakfast buffet.
➡️Book your stay at Santa Lucia Boutique Hotel now!

Where to Stay in Victoria

If you prefer to be centrally located or near a bus station, then Victoria is a fantastic choice.

📍Townhouse 17 Boutique B&B: Near the historic center, this property offers modern, clean rooms, with comfortable beds and amazing city views. It has a beautiful terrace, rooftop pool, and free parking.
➡️Book your stay at Townhouse 17 Boutique B&B now!

Where to Stay in Marsalforn

Another great option for families is the seaside town of Marsalforn. Directly opposite Xlendi Bay on the north side of the island, Marsalforn

📍Hotel Calypso: This excellent budget-friendly option has a rooftop pool, sundeck overlooking the bay, cocktail bar, and 2 restaurants. Rooms have a balcony, breakfast is included with free parking nearby.
➡️Book your stay at Hotel Calypso now!

Travel Planning Services button. Let us create the perfect itinerary for your travel style.

Malta Itinerary Map – Day 7: Return to Malta

⛔End of 7-Day Malta Itinerary: return to the main island via the Malta Gozo Ferry and make your way to the airport. The entire journey should take around 3 hours.

If this is too rushed for you, then I recommend leaving Gozo one day early.

Malta Itinerary Map – Day 7-12: The Rest of Malta

A Google map of the island of Malta that shows every stop on this part of the Malta itinerary.

If you are continuing on your Malta road trip, then make your way to your accommodation. Check in and get ready to explore the island of Malta.

Day 8-12: The Island of Malta

DRIVE TIME: Xlendi Bay – Xemxija (1 hr total – 25.1 km/15.5 miles)

Gavin smiling close to the beach, where red umbrellas are set up and white buildings in the background.

The Island of Malta

Over the next 3 – 5 days, you will explore the rest of magnificent Malta! You can decide how much (or little) you want to see in your remaining time on the island.

We feel the following places are a must-see on any Malta itinerary. All can be experienced on a 10-day trip to Malta.

If you have 12 days in Malta, as we did, get ready for a few extra days of activities and relaxation!

For the last part of our Malta itinerary, we based ourselves in Xemxija or St. Paul’s Bay. More on that later.

All the following cities, beaches, and sights are only a 35 min drive from Xemxija or St. Paul’s Bay.

If you are renting a car in Malta, we strongly recommend choosing 2 cities or sights to visit per day.

This allows you to explore at a relaxed pace, discover what makes each town special and allow Malta to capture your heart!

Gavin standing in front of St. Paul's Cathedral in the town of Mdina.

What to Do on the Island of Malta

Mdina

This ancient walled city sits atop a hill with stunning views of the countryside. Mdina is a UNESCO Heritage Site and a fascinating example of Maltese history and culture.

With a mix of medieval and Baroque architecture, the little alleyways lead you from one impressive sight to the next.

Wandering the quiet streets is one of the best things to do in Mdina.

There are excellent restaurants scattered throughout the city. We really enjoyed the Mdina Restaurant. The food was tasty, and you can see the entire island from the amazing terrace!

Rabat

The neighboring town of Rabat is known for its character and beauty. Home to several medieval monasteries and churches, this town has its own charm waiting to be discovered.

You will need one full day to explore Mdina and Rabat. They are a definite must-see hit and should be included on every Malta itinerary.

✅Helpful Tip: Use the parking lot just outside the gates of Mdnina, as both Mdina and Rabat are pedestrian-only. Both towns are flat and easy to navigate, especially for travelers with mobility issues.

Golden Bay

If you’re craving some beach time, head to Golden Bay, one of the few sandy beaches on Malta.

It is perfect for swimming, snorkeling and relaxation, and is located on the northwest side of Malta.

For €20 you can rent an umbrella and a couple of loungers. Spend your day relaxing by the surf and admiring the amazing cliff sides, nearby. There are facilities and restaurants close by.

Popeye’s Village

Built as a film set for the feature film, Popeye, this unique attraction has become very popular with tourists.

For 20€, you can marvel at the one-of-a-kind village, indulge in free popcorn, swim and relax on the sun loungers, or enjoy the inflatable obstacle course.

➡️Buy your tickets to Popeye’s Village here!

Dingli Cliffs

At a staggering 253 meters, the Dingle Cliffs are the highest point in all of Malta. The cliffs stretch all the way past Dingli village to the Blue Grotto.

Take a drive along the coastline or an evening stroll to watch the sunset.

Blue Grotto

You can also admire the majestic Dingli Cliffs from the sea!

Join a boat tour that will take you along the cliff’s edge to the Blue Grotto. This stunning natural grotto is perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Just don’t miss out on these naturally gorgeous locations.

Marsaxlokk

The picturesque village of Marsaxlokk is the largest fishing harbor in all of Malta. Relax, watch life unfold, and admire the colorful fishing boats in the harbor.

One of the reasons to visit this delightful town in Malta is to experience the local Sunday Fishing Market.

We recommend arriving early in the morning before the busload of tourists.

Marsaskala

Next, make your way to Marsaskala, a popular fishing town among locals and tourists. But know that it can get very busy in the summer.

Take a walk on the promenade and enjoy the gardens or check out the spectacular cliffs that surround this small fishing village.

✅Helpful Tip: Walking around all day is exhausting, so why not add opportunities to sit and relax? Don’t feel you have to see everything! Grab a cappuccino or gelato, find a bench, and watch the locals mingle!

St. Peter’s Pool

Just outside Marsaskala is the natural swimming spot of St. Peter’s Pool. With crystal clear, azure water, it is a stunning spot for swimming and snorkeling.

There are flat rocks for sunbathing but bring sunscreen and a hat… it gets hot!

This is a definite highlight and one of the main reasons to visit Malta! We recommend making this one of your final destinations before wrapping up your Malta itinerary.

✅Helpful Tip: There is parking on top of the cliff, but the roads are not great. It can be a challenging visit for people with mobility issues but is still worth a look!

The harbor of Xemxija Bay completely full of boats, with buildings in the distance.

Where to Base Yourself in Malta

We based ourselves in Xemxija Bay for the remainder of 12 day Malta itinerary.

This was mainly due to budget and keep our costs down, as we were headed to the Greek island of Sifnos afterward.

Our apartment hotel included a kitchen, pool, and balcony overlooking the bay, with shops and restaurants close by.

Many people choose to base themselves out of the historic town of Mdina, but it can get costly.

We found you could drive the entire length of the island in under 45 min. And that’s the beauty of marvelous Malta!

Choose wherever you’d like to stay, as it should be easy enough to get anywhere with your rental car.

Our balcony of the Porto Azzurro Aparthotel with two sun loungers. You can see the deep blue sea in the distance.

A view of the pool from above, taken from our balcony of Porto Azzurro Aparthotel.

Where to Stay in Xemxija Bay

📍Porto Azzurro Aparthotel: We enjoyed our stay here. It was simple but clean, quiet, comfortable, and affordable. It had a kitchen, pool, huge balcony overlooking the bay, and included parking.
➡️Book your stay at Porto Azzurro Aparthotel now!

📍Casa Ricca: This family-run, mobility-friendly hotel is close to shops, restaurants, and overlooks the bay. Rooms are spacious, and beautifully decorated with Maltese charm, and include a homemade breakfast.
➡️Book your stay at Casa Ricca now!

Robyn wandering down the streets of Rabat.

Where to Stay in Mdina & Rabat

If you crave a more traditional feel in an ancient walled city, then we strongly recommend staying in Mdina or Rabat. Although more expensive, the stay offers a one-of-a-kind experience.

📍Point de Vue Guesthouse: We almost booked this hotel, just 100m outside the fortified walls. Rooms features Maltese charm and overlook the beautiful countryside. Parking and breakfast are included.
➡️Book your stay at Point de Vue Guesthouse now!

📍MYN in Rabat: A blend of Maltese charm with a modern touch, this hotel features ground-floor suites for guests with limited mobility, and a rooftop terrace. It is walkable to sights, and parking is included.
➡️Book your stay at MYN in Rabat now!

A close up of the front of a traditional boat taking us from the 3 Cities back to Valletta harbor.

Visa Requirements for Malta

Malta is part of the European Union. So, if you are from the EU or UK, you will not require a visa for entry.

If you are a non-EU visitor, you must present the following to the Maltese customs upon arrival:

✔️PASSPORT: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date.

✔️VISA: Malta is part of the Schengen Agreement, so if you are from Canada or the United States, you may enter Malta and stay for up to 90 days.

This is true for both tourist and business purposes. Check here for more information on visa requirements.

✔️HEALTH INSURANCE: You must present valid health insurance to the customs officers. Insurance must include the coverage of medical emergencies for a minimum of €30,000.

Robyn standing in the shade of a balcony between 3 aquamarine colored doors.

How to Get to Malta

The easiest way to get to Malta is to fly into Valletta. Many major European cities have flights to Malta. It would just be a matter of preference, price, and availability.

To find the best deals on international and domestic flights, we recommend using WayAway.

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Once you decide on a flight, WayAway directs you to the actual provider’s website, so you can view all the info, read the necessary fine print, and make an informed decision on your travel plans.

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A traditional boat sailing through Valletta harbor.

How to Get Around Malta

The small size of the islands of Malta makes it easy to get around and explore.

🚌Bus

Public buses run on the islands of Malta and Gozo, with many serving the major tourist destinations. Buses are a relatively cheap and efficient option too. Check the bus schedule here.

🚗Rental Car

However, we feel that Malta is the perfect destination for a road trip!

Renting a car provides you the opportunity to explore the many towns, view the beautiful countryside and discover the beaches.

Plus, you can drive the entire country of Malta at your own pace. Local transportation just can’t do that.

A view from inside our rental car, with our GPS on the windshield. We are waiting for a car to pass so we can enter a narrow tunnel.

Our tiny white 2 door rental car in Malta. We recommend renting a car to tour the country.

Discover Cars is an excellent site that compares prices between local and international Malta rent-a-car companies. They have additional features you can add to your booking, like insurance, GPS, car seats, etc.

They really make renting a car an easy process!

Plus, you can choose the type of insurance you want ahead of time and avoid additional stress at the counter.

We have sampled a couple of different rental car agencies over the years but usually find that Discover Cars offers the best selection for price, comfort, and customer service.

🚗Find the Best Deals with Discover Cars
✔️compare prices
✔️easy booking process
✔️offers comprehensive insurance
✔️excellent 24/7 customer service
➡️Reserve your rental with Discover Cars here!

Lastly, we strongly recommend buying a GPS before you go! It’s important to download the map of Malta into the GPS before arriving. That way, all maps are ready to go!

👉Read our full How to Rent a Car in Malta post here!

⛔FYI: Maltese drive on the left-hand side of the road, just like in Britain! Gavin decided to rent a manual car with a standard transmission.

Of course, it took some getting used to, since the stick shift is on the opposite side! But it is a great way to save money!

✅Helpful Tip: Renting a car changed the way we travel. We see what we want and travel at our own pace in a comfortable car. I can manage my pain more effectively and experience more since I can only walk limited distances. Consider this when planning your trip.

Robyn smiling and standing with her arms stretched out in the harbor of the 3 Cities, and a fortified wall behind her.

Booking a Tour in Malta

If you are not a fan of planning all your own activities or want to spend less time in the car, then consider booking a tour for part of your trip.

👉Benefits of Joining a Tour:
✔️Get an insider’s look into a destination
✔️You won’t have to worry about transportation
✔️Removes the stress of planning every activity
✔️Tours are safe and you can meet other travelers
✔️Experience something you can’t do on your own
✔️Tour guide shares history & facts for each place you visit

For those that travel with chronic pain and fatigue, I understand the hesitation of joining a larger tour. Depending on your pain level that day, it can be difficult to keep up with the group or participate in all activities.

That is why we choose to hire a private guide when we want to explore certain sights. There is also more flexibility with a private guide as you can set your own schedule.

We recommend using GetYourGuide or Viator when booking local tours. Both have a wide selection of tours throughout Malta and Gozo, including city tours, water activities, and more!

Robyn wandering through Rabat, Malta. The perfect itinerary allows time for exploration.

FAQs: Spend 7, 10 or 12 Days in Malta

How many days are needed in Malta?

To make the most of your visit to Malta, we recommend spending a minimum of 7 to 10 days. This timeframe allows you to experience the rich history, stunning natural landscapes, gorgeous beaches, and vibrant culture that Malta has to offer.

Are 4 days in Malta enough?

4 days in Malta will allow you to see selective sights and give you a taste of Maltese culture. Depending on how fast you travel, and what sights you want to see, your trip may feel rushed. With that in mind, we recommend focusing on key highlights such as Valletta, Mdina, and a visit to the Blue Grotto or Gozo.

Is 7 days enough in Malta?

Yes, 7 days is a good amount of time to explore Malta. You will be able to explore the highlights of Valletta, Mdina, the Blue Grotto, and various picturesque coastal towns. You can also dedicate time to visit the neighboring island of Gozo and enjoy leisurely days on the beautiful beaches.

Is Malta cheap or expensive?

Malta is considered moderately priced and is generally more affordable than popular Western European destinations. Prices for accommodation, dining, and transportation can vary depending on the location and the level of luxury you choose. With proper planning, a trip to Malta does not need to break the bank.

What is the best month to visit Malta?

The best months to visit Malta are typically from April to June and September to October. During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation prices compared to the peak summer months.

12 days in Malta allows you to explore the gorgeous rocky coastline of Gozo.

Final Thoughts: Spend 7, 10 or 12 Days in Malta

The tiny Mediterranean island of Malta has so much to offer visitors. From interesting historic cities and churches to gorgeous cliffsides and beaches, you will have no problem filling your time!

Hopefully, our we helped provide you with all the necessary information to create your own detailed 7, 10 or 12-day Malta itinerary.

Let us know if you have any questions… otherwise, enjoy your journey!