Is Malta Worth Visiting in 2024? 21 Amazing Reasons to GO!
Wondering if Malta is worth visiting in 2024? You’ve come to the right place!
We traveled to Malta and explored nearly every corner of this amazing country during our 12-day Maltese road trip. This less visited corner of Europe has so much to offer visitors.
We want to share what makes Malta so special and why you should plan a trip to Malta in 2023.
In this post, we share why Malta is worth visiting, how safe it is, and the best time of year to plan your holiday. We include the best attractions to visit, things to do, where to stay, and how to get around this tiny island country.
Hopefully, you will have a better idea of whether Malta should be your next travel destination.
Grab a glass of wine, get comfy… and let’s do this!
Is Malta Worth Visiting in 2023?
After spending nearly two weeks exploring this marvelous country, we can confidently say, YES… Malta is worth visiting!
Malta is a good holiday destination for those looking to get off the beaten path and explore a less-visited corner of Europe.
Here are some of the best reasons why you should visit Malta.
First off, the country is teeny tiny and is the 10th smallest country in the world! We’re talking only 27 kilometers (16.8 miles) long.
This means you can take your sweet time exploring the sights and not feel rushed. This makes for a more relaxing vacation!
Malta has charming historic cities, great shopping, and vibrant nightlife. There are beautiful beaches, numerous water activities, and interesting caves to explore.
Honestly, the Maltese Islands have something for everyone! We promise they will not disappoint.
Plus, the weather is beautiful year-round, and the locals are extremely friendly. They are happy to share their history, language, and culture, offering visitors a well-rounded travel experience.
We are telling you right now… Malta is well worth visiting!
What is Malta Known For?
Malta is best known for its breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear water, a mix of cultures, and awesome weather!
Malta’s landscape is so unique, it has been featured in several blockbuster movies including World War Z, Gladiator, and Popeye. The actual set of Popeye is one of the things to see on the island!
Of course, we can’t forget the legendary HBO series Game of Thrones… yup, it was filmed here too!
Actually, famous people from Malta include Britney Spears, Meghan Markle, and Kerry Ingram, who played Princess Shireen Baratheon on Game of Thrones!
Malta is also known for its mix of cultures, which can be found in its unique language and delicious cuisine!
And if you’re wondering if Malta is part of Italy, the answer is no. But, thanks to its Mediterranean location, Maltese food has the best of Italian and Arabic influences baked right in.
We recommend trying the famous Maltese Rabbit Stew at one of these amazing restaurants during your visit.
Malta is also renowned for having one of the best climates in Europe, with over 300 days of sunshine a year! Yes, this may bring a slightly drier climate, but who can argue with sunshine every day… certainly not us Canadians.
And for those history buffs, you should know that Malta has some of the world’s oldest temples.
Check out the megalithic Ggantija Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is older than the Pyramids of Egypt. A must-see when visiting Malta!
Best Time to Visit Malta?
The Maltese islands are blessed with a fantastic climate, with sunshine almost every day, making it a perfect holiday destination year-round.
👉Best Times to Visit Malta: May/June and September/October, when crowds disperse, the islands quiet down, and hotels offer the best deals on accommodation.
During this time, the weather is practically perfect… not scorching hot but still warm enough to enjoy the natural swimming spots and beaches around the islands.
🌺Spring: Thanks to warm African winds, temperatures increase at the end of April, and are in the mid-20s by May. That’s right… beach season has arrived!
🌞Summer: July and August are hot and dry. Despite scorching temperatures, crowds are at their peak, so it’s best to plan for accommodations, transportation, and tours.
✅Helpful Tip: As teachers, we travel during the busy summer months. But, by arriving early, we can beat the crowds, find a close park spot and enjoy a historic site with less noise and no selfie sticks!
☔Autumn: September to November tends to be warm and humid. Expect temperatures in the mid-20s, with the occasional rainfall.
❄️Winter: Malta has one of the mildest winter climates in all of Europe, with temperatures around 16 – 18 °C (60 – 64°F). Just make sure to pack a light jacket for the evenings.
🎄Christmas in Malta: Malta in December can be magical! Walled cities dazzling with lights, festive events, tasty food, and no winter storms to battle… just more reasons Malta is worth visiting!
Is Malta Safe?
Malta is a beautiful country to visit and is very safe for tourists.
We felt safe and secure while driving in Malta. Since Malta is such a small country, distances between towns are short.
This means you won’t be driving long stretches of highway alone or be too far away from help if needed.
English is the official language in Malta. So, even if you get lost, there will be no language barrier to worry about! Plus, the Maltese locals are friendly and welcoming.
I know, it sounds too good to be true, but Malta really is an amazing destination worth visiting!
21 Awesome Things to Do in Malta
From historic cities and stunning views to swimming holes and delicious food, Malta has much to offer. Here is a look at some of the best things that make Malta worth visiting!
1. Wander Valletta
When people ask my opinion, “Is Valletta worth visiting?” my jaw drops to the floor. YES! Valletta is unlike any other capital city in Europe.
The first stop on any Malta itinerary should be the gorgeous capital Valletta. And rightly so, this charming city has everything and deserves a couple of days!
Valletta boasts spectacular views of the Mediterranean, quaint walking streets, quirky bars, and a relaxing atmosphere. We especially loved that the city is pedestrian-only with excellent shops and restaurants.
Easily walkable from Strait Street is St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the jewel of Valletta. Located in the middle of town, this stunning cathedral is well worth a visit.
And for those history buffs, make sure to check out the Lascaris War Rooms, an underground complex of tunnels and chambers used during WWII.
➡️Read more & book your tour here!
✔️Original Valletta Walking Tour
✔️Private Walking Tour
Since Valletta is a walking-only town, you may want to consider a private transfer to/from the airport.
➡️Check rates & book your airport transfer now
2. Take in the Views From the Upper Barrakka
At the end of Strait Street are the Upper Barrakka Gardens, a beautiful place to relax with tall trees, archways, and benches. From there you can admire the views of the Mediterranean Sea, Valletta Harbour, and the 3 Cities.
This is a perfect place to watch the sunset over the city… it is absolutely stunning!
You can also see the Saluting Battery from the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Gun salutes happen twice a day at noon and 4 pm and are a long tradition in Valletta.
UPPER BARRAKKA GARDENS
📍Location: Google Map
⌚Hours: Monday to Sunday from 7 am – 10 pm
💲Cost: Free
3. Explore the 3 Cities
Across Valletta Harbour are the 3 Cities of Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua.
The unique Maltese architecture continues in these cities with quiet streets, charming cafes, and more tasty treats! Plus, you will see a completely different perspective of Valletta!
Malta really makes it easy to visit these cities too. Take the elevator from the Upper Barrakka Gardens down to the water and hop on a water taxi. It costs €2.80 for a return trip.
We loved our little ride through the harbor, the views from the water are incredible!
✅Helpful Tip: For those with chronic pain or mobility issues, there are steep hills & steps up to the higher part of each city. As an alternative, you can admire the cities from the waterfront promenades.
➡️Read more & book your tour here!
✔️3 Cities Boat Tour from Valletta
✔️3 Cities Wine Tasting Tour
4. Visit St. Elmo’s Fort
St. Elmo’s Fort sits in the middle of Valletta’s Harbour and was designed in the shape of a star to protect the harbor from attack. It played a key role in the Great Siege of Malta.
The fort is now a national war museum where you can learn about Malta’s fascinating history. There are guided tours you can join, and many displays of military paraphernalia and treasured artifacts too.
Of course, the views of Valletta and the harbor from the fort are beautiful!
FORT ST. ELMO – NATIONAL WAR MUSEUM
📍Location: Google Map
⌚Winter Hours: Monday to Sunday 9 am – 5 pm (Oct 1 – March 31)
⌚Summer Hours: Monday to Sunday 9 am – 6 pm (April 1 – Sept 30)
💲Cost: Adults €10, Youth/Senior/Student €7.50, Child €5.50
5. Cool Off at St. George’s Square
St. George’s Square, located in the heart of Valletta, is a must-see attraction that has witnessed many significant events throughout Malta’s history.
The square is surrounded by beautiful 16th-century Baroque architecture, including the Main Guard building and the Grandmaster’s Palace, which houses the Office of the President of Malta.
This cultural hub hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, including open-air concerts, theatrical performances, art exhibitions, and food festivals.
If you need to cool down from the summer sun, St. George’s Square has a wonderful fountain. It is free of charge, so if you’re looking to spend less money while traveling, then make sure to add this to your Malta vacation.
➡️Read more & book your tour here!
✔️Original Valletta Walking Tour
6. Sample Maltese Food & Wine
Maltese food is delicious, a perfect blend of Italian and Arab influences. Honestly, we never had a bad meal during our entire trip through Malta!
Try the Maltese Rabbit Stew or local sausage, you will thank us. Maltese food is delicious, we never had a bad meal. We put together a list of the 35 best restaurants in Malta to make planning your trip easier.
As if that wasn’t enough… Malta makes its very own wine. That’s right, just another reason Malta is worth visiting! There are a few wineries on both Malta and Gozo that you can tour.
And because the official language is English, you won’t have any problems ordering a glass or two!
➡️Read more & book your tour here:
✔️Maltese Wine & Chocolate Pairing Tour
✔️Valletta Street Food & Culture Walking Tour
7. Get Lost in Medieval Mdina
Mdina is one of the most romantic cities we have ever visited. The city doesn’t allow cars, so it is perfect for strolling.
And most of the town is flat, which makes it ideal if you travel with chronic pain or have mobility issues as I do.
Mdina is the place to go if you love historic walled cities, little hidden alleyways, local art, and restaurants with amazing views of the island. It is one of the most beautiful towns in Malta to visit.
We love all forms of art… and were so thrilled to learn that you can visit different workshops here and observe artists in their creative process.
Mdina is also close enough to Valletta that many do it as a day trip in combination with Rabat, which is just a stone’s throw away.
➡️Read more & book your tour here: Mdina & Rabat Tour
8. Churches & Catacombs in Rabat
Rabat is perfectly located right next to Mdnia, making it easy to visit both in one stop. It is another walkable town with beautiful churches and intricate catacombs that are worth checking out.
We loved the Baroque architecture of St. Paul’s Church, one of the oldest churches in the city. You can even head inside and visit the grotto, where St. Paul apparently lived and preached while in Malta in 60 AD.
Then make your way to the Catacombs of St. Paul, which is the largest burial site in Malta and houses over 1000 human remains.
There are several cafes around the church, where you can stop for lunch or a gelato afterward.
ST. PAUL’S CATACOMBS
📍Location: Google Map
⌚Winter Hours: Monday to Sunday 9 am – 5 pm (Nov – May)
⌚Summer Hours: Monday to Sunday 9 am – 6 pm (June – Oct)
💲Cost: Adults €25, Youth/Senior/Student €3.50, Child €2.50
*Due to uneven ground, not everywhere is wheelchair accessible.
9. Dive Into St. Peter’s Pool
One of the most unique things to do in Malta is diving into St. Peter’s Pool. This amazing natural swimming spot, just outside Marsaskala, is great for swimming and snorkeling because of its clear azure water.
You can sunbathe on the flat rocks too but bring sunscreen and a hat… it gets hot!
People think Malta is expensive, but visiting this natural wonder is free! You just need to pay 3€ for parking at the top of the cliff.
But be forewarned, the roads are not great, so drive carefully.
ST. PETER’S POOL
📍Location: Google Map
⌚Hours: anytime (but stick to daytime hours only)
💲Cost: Free!
✅Helpful Tip: People with chronic pain or mobility issues may find it challenging to climb the steps down the cliff to the actual swimming spot. But even if you don’t swim, it is a gorgeous spot to check out.
10. Sunbathe at Golden Bay Beach
No Malta vacation would be complete without hitting up a beach or two. Now, Malta is not known for its “sandy” beaches, so be prepared for beaches made of pebbles, small, or even large rocks.
But trust us, in that hot Mediterranean sun… you won’t care! Just bring your water shoes.
If sand is what you crave, then head to Golden Bay, one of the few sandy beaches on the island.
But that also means it is popular with tourists and locals. Arrive early for a parking spot, and you should be good to go.
Golden Bay has restroom facilities, restaurants, and water-related activities on site too.
Not all beaches are easily accessible by bus, which is why we chose to rent a car during our Malta vacation. We recommend you do the same!
👉Other beaches to try: Ir-Ramla Il-Hamra, Ghajn Tuffieha Bay, Mellieha Bay, Gnejna Bay, Pretty Bay in Birzebugga, Armier Bay, St. Peter’s Pool, Mgarr ix-Xini Bay, St. George’s Bay, and Xlendi Bay.
GOLDEN BAY BEACH
📍Location: Google Map
⌚Hours: anytime (but stick to daytime hours)
💲Cost: Free!
11. Enjoy the Nightlife at St. Julien’s
Craving a night on the town, then head to St. Julien’s Bay, one of the best towns to visit in Malta. And where some of the best pubs, bars, and clubs are on the island.
We heard The Thirsty Barber in St. Julian’s is awesome for an unforgettable night out!
Valletta also has great pubs and clubs if you are staying in the capital. Plus, the city is gorgeous all lit up at night! We highly recommend visiting The Alchemy Cocktail Bar to sample one-of-a-kind, delicious cocktails!
Watching a football (soccer) match at a local pub doesn’t hurt either. It can get intense and very entertaining!
ST. JULIAN’S
📍Location: Google Map
12. Relax at the Blue Lagoon on Comino
One must-see activity when visiting Malta is swimming in the Blue Lagoon on Comino Island. It is one of the most picturesque places around Malta… and probably the most visited.
Now, we don’t pretend to like crowds, but even so… we still recommend making your way to see this stunning lagoon.
The water is insanely clear and is a gorgeous turquoise color that we have never seen anywhere else. Just arrive early to find a great spot for the day!
Comino Island is accessible from almost anywhere in Malta. However, we suggest taking a private boat from the north island of Gozo. It is a shorter distance than from Malta and you avoid the large, packed tour boats.
Most Comino tours typically include the Santa Maria Caves and Blue Lagoon. Depending on where your tour starts, other sights/caves may be included, but all tours end up at the Blue Lagoon.
To see how we included a visit to Comino Island, check out our 12-day Malta itinerary.
Now… if party boats are your jam, then here are a couple of larger tours to consider:
➡️Read more & book your tour here:
✔️Malta: Comino, Blue Lagoon, and Caves Boat Cruise
✔️Private Boat Trip: Gozo, Comino, Malta, Blue Lagoon
13. Find Peace & Quiet on Gozo
Gozo is the 2nd largest island in the Maltese archipelago and is a much quieter version of Malta with a slower pace.
It has gorgeous landscapes, quiet countryside, and stunning seaside cliffs. Plus, the seafood is incredible… Gozo really does pack a punch!
Take the Malta ferry to Gozo from the north end of the island. It’s a quick 25-minute journey.
And don’t worry, if you are driving in Malta, you can take your rental car onto the ferry. It is super easy and efficient with frequent ferries.
Check ferry prices here.
➡️Read more & book your tour here:
✔️Gozo Full-Day Jeep Tour with Lunch & Boat Ride
✔️Self-Drive E-Jeep Guided Tour in Gozo
14. Drive Around the Islands
One of the best ways to access every hot spot and discover some hidden gems is to drive around Malta.
You can easily drive the whole island in about 3 hours… not that you would need to, but it’s helpful to know distances are small!
We were able to visit every bay, cliffside, beach, and town we wanted with our rental car. And we could hit up the tourist hot spots first thing in the morning before the crowds.
This makes a huge difference, especially if you are looking for peace and relaxation.
In our opinion, driving was our favorite way to see the island. Check out our post on Malta Driving for extra tips!
🚗Looking for a Car Rental? Book your car here!
15. Explore Popeye’s Village
That’s right… Malta is home to the film set of the 1980s musical production of Popeye. It is truly a unique destination as there is nothing like it anywhere else in the world. Another great reason Malta is worth visiting!
Popeye’s Village is one of the cutest “villages” you can explore in Malta. The set includes restaurants and cafes, and movie memorabilia.
It even has a swimmable oceanfront, complete with a water jungle gym for kids. A one-of-a-kind experience and worth checking out!
✅Helpful Tip: For those who struggle with mobility, please know it is a steep climb down to the village. This also means it will be a steep climb back up! Something to consider when planning your visit.
➡️Read more & book your tour here:
✔️Popeye Village – Ticket & Transfer
16. Admire the Dingli Cliffs
At 253 meters tall, the Dingli Cliffs are Malta’s highest point. The cliffs extend all the way past Dingli village to the Blue Grotto. They are gorgeous and should be included on any visit to Malta!
Visit the cliffs for sunset, as the endless sky and sea change color atop the rocky ledge.
They are easiest to access with a car or private transfer. The road follows the top of the cliffs, so the drive is full of amazing viewpoints!
You can also admire these stunning cliffs on a boat tour. We didn’t do this, but plan to the next time we are in Malta, as we heard it is an unbelievable experience!
➡️Read more & book your tour here:
✔️Dingli Cliff Tour with Mdina
17. Discover Malta’s Natural Wonders
Aside from the amazing Dingli Cliffs, there are multiple natural wonders you should visit while in Malta.
The list below doesn’t include the island beaches or any of the underwater sights one can find via snorkeling or scuba diving.
✔️Malta Natural Wonders: St. Peter’s Pool, Blue Grotto, Golden Bay Beach, Dingli Cliffs, Xemxija Heritage Trails, Buskett Gardens, Ghar il-Kbir, Fomm ir-Rih, Majjistral Nature Park, and Dragonara Hole
✔️Gozo Natural Wonders: Salt Pans, Inland Sea in Dwerja, Calypso’s Cave
✔️Comino Natural Wonders: Blue Lagoon, Santa Marija Caves, and Santa Marija Bay
18. Take a Boat Ride
Whether you are commuting to or from an island, deep sea fishing, or viewing the many cliffs and caves, you are bound to find yourself on a boat during your trip to Malta.
Malta is also a stop on many Mediterranean cruises. We saw some gigantic cruise ships come into Valletta Harbour.
There are several local tour companies to take you on your journey. From small private boats to large catamarans, snorkeling excursions to dinner cruises, they have it all.
Whatever you choose, just make sure you experience Malta by sea during your stay!
Water Taxis are also used if you need to get across the bay, such as from Valletta to the 3 Cities.
If you want to know what Malta is like and admire the rocky coastline from the sea, then join one of these awesome boat tours!
➡️Read more & book your tour here:
✔️Blue Lagoon, Beaches & Bay with Catamaran
✔️Blue Lagoon: 4 – 5 Hour Sunset Cruise
19. Visit the Fishing Villages
Marsaxlokk is an adorable town with the largest fishing harbor in all of Malta. We found a little café right in the harbor, sipped our drinks, and just watched the fisherman do their thing. It was awesome!
We recommend going on Sunday to wander the local Sunday Fishing Market. Then find a restaurant with a view of the bay and admire the beautifully colored boats with your morning coffee.
Marsaskala is another popular fishing village to visit, especially in the summer. The cliffs that surround this small fishing village are stunning!
Marsaxlokk and Marsaskala are some of the most gorgeous towns to visit in Malta!
➡️Read more & book your tour here:
✔️Blug Grotto & Sunday Market
at Marsaxlokk Fishing Village
20. Shop for Blown Glass
We are obsessed with blown glass and were super excited to learn Malta is the place to admire this art form!
Unbelievable local artists create blown glass pieces, from cups and plates to ornaments and vases. We couldn’t help ourselves… and bought a huge vase we had to ship back to Canada!
There are also found many shops selling gorgeous, delicate handmade jewelry.
Mdina is the place to shop for amazing souvenirs… especially blown glass! They have a variety of shops and artist workshops to visit during your Malta vacation.
And while on Gozo check out the Ta’Dbiegi Craft Village. Here, you can admire the artwork, shop for souvenirs, or join one of the workshop classes they offer!
TA’DBIEGI CRAFT VILLAGE
📍Location: Google Map
⌚Hours: Monday to Saturday from 10:30 am – 4 pm
💲Cost: Adults €10, Senior/Student €7.50, Child €5.50
21. Explore Dwejra Bay
Dwejra Bay is one of the most interesting and iconic spots that make Malta worth visiting!
It was once home to the famous 28-meter Azure Window. Although it fell into the sea in 2017, this amazing spot was still one of our favorites.
Make sure to bring water shoes, as you will need to walk and climb on rocky surfaces down to the swimming hole. Depending on the tide, the swimming hole can be a thrilling adventure for those daring enough.
You can also take a boat ride for 4€ around where the arch once stood, as well as nearby caves. The cliffs in this area are unreal and make for some amazing photography opportunities too.
DWEJRA BAY
📍Location: Google Map
⌚Hours: anytime (but stick to daylight hours for safety)
💲Cost: Free!
Is it Expensive to Visit Malta?
Since it’s known for its beautiful luxury resorts, many people think Malta is an expensive destination. But we are going to shatter that fact… and say Malta is affordable!
By using public transportation or renting a car in Malta and staying in smaller hotels and B&Bs, we think visiting Malta is well worth your hard-earned penny.
Now, remember… we are teachers, so we travel during the more expensive summer months.
For our trip to Malta in July, we averaged 100€ a day per person. This included our flight, rental car, fuel, food, entertainment, and souvenirs.
Our 2-week trip to Puglia, Italy was comparable to our 12-day Malta trip and just as affordable as Greece too.
If you are looking to save money when booking your trip, visit during the off-season when prices are lower.
🚗Looking for a Car Rental? Book your car today!
Is Malta Good for Couples?
Is Malta nice? Is it good for couples? Oh my gosh… YES! Malta is an excellent destination for couples and here’s why.
Malta is known for its timeless architecture, inspired by romantic Renaissance and Baroque designs. The capital of Valletta is an excellent location for couples to take in the sights, get lost in hidden alleys, and enjoy the stunning views.
We stayed at the Valletta Lucente Hotel in the historic center. It was full of charm, character, and romance. We highly recommend it!
The ancient walled city of Mdina is a maze of narrow, hidden alleyways decorated with colorful shutters and scented flowers. The perfect setting for a romantic dinner and evening stroll.
Couples can also enjoy private, secluded dining experiences in several restaurants around Malta and Gozo.
One of the most romantic dinners we enjoyed was at Ta Karolina Restaurant in Xlendi Bay. Our table was on the rocky cliff next to the sea at sunset!
Plus, there are gorgeous cliffs to explore, beautiful beaches to discover, and private sailing opportunities to take you around the islands.
Finally, if you are after a pampered vacation, then you will be pleased to know there are amazing all-inclusive resorts scattered throughout the islands!
All of these reasons make Malta well worth visiting for couples looking for adventure and romance!
Getting Around Malta
Malta is comprised of 3 main islands in the middle of the Mediterranean (Malta, Gozo, and Comino). So, you will require some sort of transportation, especially if you want to check out all that Malta has to offer.
Now… since the islands are so small, you can easily visit three or more sights in a day! We know… but it’s true!
Remember, it only takes approximately 3-hours to drive the entire island of Malta, and 2 hours to make your way around Gozo. And the only way to see Comino is by boat.
Sounds like a lot of sightseeing and relaxing time to us… just another reason Malta is worth visiting!
Here are the best ways of getting around Malta:
🚗Rent a Car
Hands down, this is the best way to see Malta and our #1 recommendation! It is by far the easiest and most relaxing way to explore the islands.
Renting a car allows you to travel at your own pace and on your own terms. You can arrive/leave a sight when you want, don’t have to plan your day according to a schedule, and won’t have to fight for a seat.
➡️Looking for a Car Rental?
🚗Book your rental car here!
Surprisingly, there are a lot of cars in this tiny country, and sometimes, it can be difficult to find parking. However, we found that if we just arrived early, we had no problem parking our car.
✔️Parking: For the most part, parking in Malta is free. We did come across some places where we needed to pay for parking, but the fee was extremely reasonable.
Check out our post on How to Rent a Car in Malta for more information.
🚌Ride the Bus
Taking the bus around Malta is popular and a great way to spend less money while traveling. This is especially true if you are a solo traveler.
The buses in Malta are safe, comfortable, and affordable, and operate on a regular schedule. Although not all places can be reached by bus, they do hit most major sightseeing places.
If you can handle public transport, this may be the best option for you. Check out the public transportation schedules here.
⛵Take the Ferry
The limestone cliffs that make up the perimeter of the islands are stunning, and the best way to appreciate these views is by chartering a boat!
So, whether you take the ferry over to Gozo, relax on a catamaran to Comino, or use a water taxi to visit the 3 Cities, you are likely to find yourself on a boat more than once.
It is easy to navigate transportation to Gozo, as the ferry runs every 20 minutes or so. Check ferry prices here.
🚶♀️Walk the Towns
Of course, the best way to explore anywhere is with your own two feet.
The capital of Valletta and the town of Mdina have wonderful pedestrian-only streets. There are some cobblestones and stairs in Valletta, but the pedestrian-only street is long and flat.
Honestly, most towns in Malta are nice and flat. So, even if you travel with chronic pain or have mobility issues you won’t have to worry about steep hills or staircases.
There is even an elevator down to Valletta harbor from the Upper Barrakka.
🚴♂️Bicycle Around
Again, thanks to its tiny size, Malta is a fantastic destination for cycling. Visiting the Dingli Cliffs or St. Peter’s Pool are popular destinations that can be reached by bicycle.
We do not recommend riding your bikes on the busy Valletta streets or Maltese highways. There is too much foot and car traffic for it to be a safe journey.
For more info on bicycling around Malta, check out this site.
🚕Taxi & Private Transport
Of course, you can take a taxi or a private transfer. If you have no desire to drive in Malta and don’t care for buses, then this is the best choice for you.
Although more expensive, taxis and private transport mean you don’t have to share your ride with other passengers and can travel on your own schedule. And for some, this is preferable.
➡️Need an airport transfer?
🚕Book your airport transfer here!
Check out our post if you’re wondering How to Get to Malta?
How Many Days in Malta is Enough?
You could easily spend 10 – 14 days exploring Malta, and if you have the time… why not?
One reason Malta is worth visiting is that it feels made for slow travel. We chose to do a 12-day Malta road trip and loved it. It was the perfect amount of time to see the major sights, discover less-visited areas of the island, and still have time to unwind and relax.
Malta is a little further than most European destinations. That means you want to spend enough time there to make it worth the trip and see everything on your list!
Nevertheless, if you are short on time, then 5 days are enough to see the highlights of Malta. We would suggest the following:
- 2 days: Valletta – explore and eat your way through Malta’s capital
- 1 day: Mdina & St. Peter’s Pool – wander the walled city and swim in the Mediterranean
- 1 day: Comino – boat tour surrounding lagoons & caves
- 1 day: Gozo – a full-day tour of the island
We recommend GetYourGuide or Viator when booking local tours. They have a great selection of Malta tours to choose from.
Where to Stay in Malta?
Although Malta is small, there is a wide variety of accommodations for every destination and budget.
If you are short on time, then we suggest making Valletta your base. Not only will you get to experience everything this amazing city has to offer day and night, but most tours start and end in Valletta.
🏨Book your Valletta Accommodations here!
📍Valletta Lucente: This was our favorite hotel in Malta! Located in the historic center, each room in this quaint, mobility-friendly hotel is unique and includes a delicious homemade breakfast.
➡️Book your stay at Valletta Lucente
👉Check out our full Valletta Lucente Hotel review HERE!
📍Domus Zamitello: This restored 17th-century luxury hotel has elegant rooms and is a perfect way to treat yourself. Quietly located at the end of Republic Street, it is close to restaurants, bars, and shops.
➡️Book your stay at Domus Zamitello
📍The Xara Palace Relias & Chateaux: Looking for over-the-top romance… then this is for you! With amazing views, excellent food, and tasteful décor, couples will enjoy this magical hotel.
➡️Book your stay at Xara Palace Relias & Chateaux
Heading to Gozo? Rest assured, there are several areas and hotels to stay for every budget as well. From staying in small towns or close to the Mediterranean Sea, the choice is yours!
🏨Book your Gozo Accommodations here!
📍Sunset Seaview Hotel: Looking for a budget-friendly option on Gozo, this place has what you need. Rooms are simply decorated with a private bathroom and AC. Plus, excellent proximity to the ocean makes this one hard to beat.
➡️Book your stay at Sunset Seaview Hotel
📍St. Patrick’s Hotel: We stayed here because of the amazing ocean view, rooftop pool, and beachfront location. This hotel is comfortable, and affordable, including parking and breakfast.
➡️Book your stay at St. Patrick’s Hotel
📍Santa Lucia Boutique Hotel: This beautifully designed hotel has an eye for detail. It has spacious, comfortable rooms, with a pool, hot tub, free parking, and a buffet breakfast.
➡️Book your stay at Santa Lucia Boutique Hotel
FAQs
Is Malta good for tourists?
Yes, Malta is a great destination for tourists. It boasts stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, a rich history, vibrant culture, and a range of attractions and activities. The warm climate, safety, and widespread use of English make it easy for visitors to explore the island.
What is so special about Malta?
Malta’s blend of cultures, traditions, and Mediterranean cuisine, along with its warm climate, make it an unforgettable experience for tourists. Malta offers cultural and natural beauty not found anywhere else in the world!
Is Malta worth visiting in winter?
Yes, Malta is worth visiting during the winter months. Temperatures are mild, and visitors can enjoy a quieter atmosphere with fewer crowds.
Additionally, winter is an excellent time to enjoy the island’s culinary scene, which features hearty dishes and festive specialties.
Is it cheap to visit Malta?
Malta is a reasonably affordable destination for tourists, especially compared to other European countries. Summer is a more expensive time to visit, but generally, food, transport, and accommodation can be found at a reasonable price.
Is Mdina Worth Visiting?
YES, Mdina is worth visiting and a true highlight on any trip to Malta! It is one of the oldest cities in Malta, with a rich history, stunning medieval architecture, and panoramic views of the beautiful surrounding countryside.
Reasons not to visit Malta?
While Malta is a beautiful and unique destination, the island can become crowded during peak season, and traffic congestion can be an issue in certain cities. Nevertheless, there are plenty of places to escape the crowds during your Malta vacation.
Final Thoughts: Is Malta Worth Visiting?
Hopefully, this post answered your question on whether Malta is worth visiting for your next vacation.
Obviously, we think there are plenty of reasons to visit this amazing country, and a variety of interesting sights to explore. From quaint towns and historic cities to stunning landscapes and gorgeous water, Malta has something for everyone.
If you are looking for a less visited European destination, with English-speaking locals, amazing food, and incredible weather, Malta is definitely worth a visit.
Let us know if you have any questions… otherwise, enjoy your journey!
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