The BEST 21 Things to Do in Malta 2026!
Wondering what to do in Malta? You’re in the right place!
Malta may be small, but it packs in an incredible mix of history, coastal scenery, charming towns, and unforgettable food.
From wandering Valletta and exploring medieval cities to swimming in crystal lagoons and island–hopping to Gozo and Comino, there’s no shortage of memorable experiences.
During our 12 day trip across Malta, Gozo, and Comino, we quickly realized Malta is a great destination for slow travelers.
Distances are short, towns are compact and walkable, and it’s easy to enjoy the highlights without rushing from place to place.
This guide covers the 21 best things to do in Malta, including top attractions, cultural highlights, natural wonders, and several free experiences to help you plan your trip.
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Top Things to Do in Valletta
1. Wander Valletta
Valletta should be the first stop on any Malta itinerary. This charming city has spectacular Mediterranean views, friendly people, unique architecture, and a relaxing vibe.
The city is flat and pedestrian-only, making it easily walkable. And although some attractions require tickets, there are free things to do in Valletta too!
✔️St. John’s Co-Cathedral: Marvel at the beautiful Baroque architecture and Caravaggio’s masterpiece, “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist.”
✔️Casa Rocca Piccola: Step into noble Maltese life at this stunning 16th-century palace, filled with ancient artifacts and opulent rooms.
✔️Merchants & Strait Street: Both these pedestrian-only streets have excellent restaurants, cafes, pubs and quaint shops to visit.
✔️Upper Barakka Gardens: Stunning views of the Mediterranean and the 3 Cities, with a twice daily Saluting Battery at noon and 4 pm.
✔️Grand Master’s Palace: Join a tour to visit this beautiful 16th century Baroque building where you can hear tales of the Knights of Malta.
2. Sail the Grand Harbor
One of the more fun things to do in Malta is to take a cruise of the Grand Harbor. We went in the morning, but it would be a perfect activity at sunset too.
You’ll get to admire Valletta’s impressive fortifications and iconic landmarks from the water, including Marsamxett Harbour, Fort Ricasoli, and Fort St. Angelo.
Be sure to have your camera ready for some stunning views of Valletta and the 3 Cities.
To Get There: 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.
📍Location: Valletta Ferry Service, located by Barrakka Gardens lift
💲Cost: €2.80 (return ferry ticket) & €2 for lift
⌚Barrakka Gardens & Lift Hours: 8 am – 9 pm daily
Or join a tour of Malta’s harbors for a more memorable experience.
3. Enjoy Maltese Art & Culture
For art lovers, head to MUZA, the National Museum of Art in Malta, to appreciate art from the Renaissance to contemporary times.
Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, the museum combines modern design with traditional elements and features Maltese and international artists.
Then, immerse yourself in Maltese culture by attending a ballet, opera, or performance at the Manoel Theatre, one of the oldest working theaters in Europe.
This cultural gem in the heart of Valletta features stunning Baroque architecture, elegant interiors, and exceptional acoustics.
Best Coastal & Water Experiences in Malta
4. Swim in the Blue Lagoon
One of the best things to do in Malta is to swim in the insanely clear, turquoise water of the Blue Lagoon. It is one of the most picturesque places on the island.
Even though we hate crowds, we still recommend visiting this stunning lagoon.
✅HELPFUL TIP: Arrive early to find a spot for the day. Comino is one of the busiest places in Malta and gets very crowded in the afternoon.
Comino Island is accessible from almost anywhere in Malta. However, we suggest taking a private boat tour to avoid the large, packed tour boats.
Most Comino tours typically include the Santa Maria Caves and end up at the Blue Lagoon.
5. Explore Sea Caves
Malta is known for its stunning rocky coastline, blue cobalt water, and snorkeling.
One of the best things to do in Malta is to admire the rocky formations and explore the hidden caves on a boat tour.
There are several local tour companies to take you on your journey. From small private boats to large catamarans and snorkeling excursions to dinner cruises, the choices are endless.
Whatever you choose, just make sure you experience Malta by sea during your stay. The views from the water are breathtaking and the snorkeling is unbelievable!
➡️Book these top rated boat tour here!
✔️Blue Lagoon & Sea Caves Tour
✔️Swimming & Sunset Cruise
6. 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!
If you decide to drive in Malta, you will need to pay 3€ for parking at the top of the cliff. But be forewarned, the roads are not great, so drive carefully.
✅Helpful Tip: If you struggle with mobility, it may be 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.
7. Relax at the 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 small pebbles 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.
It is popular with tourists and locals, so arrive early for a parking spot. Golden Bay has restroom facilities, restaurants, and water-related activities on site too.
Not all beaches are accessible by bus, which is why we chose to rent a car during our Malta vacation.
👉Other Malta Beaches: Ramla Bay, Ghajn Tuffieha Bay, Mellieha Bay, Gnejna Bay, Pretty Bay in Birzebugga, Armier Bay, and St. George’s Bay.
Historic Towns, Cities & Culture
8. Explore the Three Cities
Across Valletta Harbour are the 3 Cities of Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua.
Each city is charming, full of history, and worth exploring. They provide a tranquil, authentic alternative to the more bustling parts of Malta, perfect for slow travel exploration.
You will also find one of the more romantic adult only hotels in Malta.
The beautiful Maltese architecture continues in these fortified cities with quiet alleyways, limestone buildings, and quaint cafes.
And of course, stunning views of the Grand Harbor and Valletta too.
✅HELPFUL TIP: For those who travel with chronic pain or mobility issues, there are steep hills and steps up to the city’s higher elevations.
As an alternative, admire the cities from the waterfront promenade.
There are some great day tours of the 3 Cities as well if you’re interested.
➡️Book your tour here!
✔️3 Cities Tour with Boat Trip
✔️3 Cities Wine Tasting Tour
9. 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.
Most of the town is flat, which is 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, and restaurants with amazing island views. It is one of the most beautiful towns in Malta to visit.
We love art and were 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.
10. Churches & Catacombs in Rabat
Rabat is 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 head inside and visit the grotto, where St. Paul lived and preached while in Malta in 60 AD.
A true highlight is 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.
11. Tour UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Malta is a treasure trove of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and archaeological wonders.
The ancient temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra date back to around 3600-3200 BC. These megalithic structures offer a glimpse into the island’s prehistoric past.
The ruins of Ġgantija on Gozo predate the pyramids and are shrouded in mystery. They are among the oldest freestanding stone monuments in the world, featuring massive stone walls and intricate carvings.
These sites are best visited with a guide who can share tales of their captivating past and Malta’s heritage. It’s a must for any history enthusiast!
Gozo & Comino: Island Day Trips
12. 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… so let yourself indulge!
Take the Malta ferry to Gozo from the north end of the island. It’s a quick 25-minute journey.
And don’t worry, you can take your rental car onto the ferry. It is super easy and efficient with frequent ferries.
Check ferry prices here.
➡️Join this popular Gozo Full-Day Jeep Tour with Lunch & Boat Ride
13. Explore Dwejra Bay
Dwejra Bay, once home to the famous 28-meter Azure Window, is one of the most interesting and iconic spots to visit in Malta.
Although it fell into the sea in 2017, it was still one of our favorite things to do in Malta.
Depending on the tide, the swimming hole can be a thrilling adventure for those daring enough.
You can also take a 4€ boat ride to where the arch once stood, and nearby caves. The cliffs in this area are unreal and make for some amazing photography opportunities.
✅HELPFUL TIP: Bring water shoes because you will need to walk and climb on rocky surfaces down to the swimming hole.
Nature, Scenic Views & Easy Drives
14. Go For a Drive
Our favorite way to see the top attractions and activities, and to get off the beaten path to discover hidden gems is to drive around Malta.
You can easily drive the whole island in about 3 hours. Everything is close and driving distances are small!
We were able to visit all the beaches, cliffsides, and beautiful Malta towns with our rental car.
Having a car lets you visit tourist hot spots first thing in the morning before the crowds. We believe renting a car in Malta is the best way to see the island.
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➡️Reserve your rental car here!
If you don’t want to drive, then the Hop-On Hop-Off bus is a great option.
15. Admire the Dingli Cliffs
At 253 meters tall, the Dingli Cliffs are Malta’s highest point.
The cliffs extend 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!
16. 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, Dingli Cliffs, Xemxija Heritage Trails, Buskett Gardens, Ghar il-Kbir Cave complex, Majjistral Nature Reserve, and Dragonara Hole
✔️Gozo Natural Wonders: Salt Pans, Inland Sea in Dwerja, Calypso’s Cave
✔️Comino Natural Wonders: Blue Lagoon, Santa Maria Caves & Bay
Food, Markets & Local Experiences
17. Indulge in Maltese Food & Wine
Maltese food is a perfect blend of Italian and Arab influences. Honestly, Malta’s cuisine is one of the top reasons to visit.
Make sure to try the rabbit stew, local sausage, and pastizzi a delicious stuffed pastry… your tastebuds will thank us.
Check out our list of the 35 best restaurants in Malta to help plan your trip.
As if that wasn’t enough… Malta makes its very own wine. 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!
18. Spend a Day in Marsaxlokk
Marsaxlokk is an adorable town with the largest fishing harbor in Malta.
We found a little café right in the harbor, sipped our cool drinks, and 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!
19. Shop for Blown Glass
Mdina is the place to shop for amazing souvenirs. Whether it is delicate handmade jewelry or gorgeous blown glass, you won’t leave empty-handed.
Unbelievable local artists create blown glass pieces, including dishware, ornaments, and vases. We love blown glass and ended up purchasing a beautiful vase and had it shipped back to Canada!
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!
Visiting an artist workshop is a perfect activity for a rainy day in Malta too.
Entertainment & Unique Attractions
20. Visit Popeye’s Village
If you’re wondering what to do in Malta with kids, you should visit 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.
Popeye’s Village is one of the cutest “villages” you can explore in Malta. The set includes restaurants, cafes, and movie memorabilia. A one-of-a-kind experience and worth checking out.
It even has a swimmable oceanfront and a water jungle gym for kids!
✅Helpful Tip: There is accessible parking, but the ramp is steep down to the village. Something to consider if you travel with chronic pain or struggle with mobility like I do.
21. Enjoy Malta’s Nightlife
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!
Where to Stay on Malta
Despite its small size, Malta offers a range of accommodations to suit every type of traveler and budget.
If you’re pressed for time, consider using Valletta as your base. The city is vibrant with excellent restaurants, shops, and attractions.
Plus, many day tours begin/end in Valletta, making it convenient if you decide not to rent a car.
For Friends & Family
📍Valletta Lucente Hotel: We highly recommend this charming, family-run BnB located in the heart of Valletta with beautifully decorated rooms, and a delicious breakfast.
➡️Book your stay at Valletta Lucente Hotel now!
👉Read our full Valletta Lucente Hotel review here!
For Couples
📍 Casa Ellul – Small Luxury Hotels of the World: This restored 19th-century townhouse is full of historic charm and modern luxury with uniquely designed rooms, and personalized service.
➡️Book your stay at Casa Ellul Hotel now!
FAQs: Visiting Malta
What is Malta best known for?
Malta is known for its interesting past and beautiful Baroque architecture, as well as its beautiful beaches and stunningly clear water. With over 300 days of sunshine each year, it’s becoming a popular European destination.
How many days in Malta is enough?
We recommend spending at least 5 to 7 days in Malta to be able to explore its main attractions, enjoy the beaches, and experience the local culture. This will give you a good mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and activities.
Is Malta cheap or expensive?
Malta is generally considered affordable compared to other European destinations, especially regarding food and public transportation. However, you should expect to see higher prices during the peak tourist season like summer.
What is a good month to visit Malta?
A good month to visit Malta is May, as the weather is warm but not too hot, and the tourist crowds are still manageable. September is also great, with pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists after the summer rush. If you’re looking to avoid tourists, then you should avoid the summer months.
Final Thoughts: The Best Things to Do in Malta
Hopefully, this post helped you narrow down what to see in Malta.
Whether you’re drawn to its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, or adventurous activities, there are so many things to do in Malta on vacation!
From exploring ancient temples and historic cities like Valletta and Mdina, to indulging in delicious local cuisine and relaxing on beautiful beaches, you are bound to fall in love with Malta’s unique charm like we did.
Read More on Malta
How To Spend 7, 10, or 12 Days in Malta: A Complete Itinerary
13 BEST Malta Towns & Cities To Explore 2026 (with Map!)
Malta Boat Tours: 10 Things to Know Before Booking
The 11 Best Adult Only Hotels in Malta in 2026
The 35 Best Restaurants in Malta for 2026
