18 Best Tourist Places in Malta

Malta is a beautiful island-country just south of Sicily. Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, the archipelago has three islands – Gozo, the big island of Malta, and the smaller island of Comino. The palm-tree landscaped islands have picturesque hilltop towns, beautiful fishing villages, and an intriguing heritage. Malta has megalithic temples, Neolithic burial chambers, and fortresses that go back a thousand years. Learn about the island’s ancient history. History buffs will be impressed to know that the Malta Knights have fought against the Turks.

There is so much variety, so many places to visit, and things to do that it will be nearly impossible to see all the attractions in one visit. You can scuba dive to explore the underwater caves, hike the fossil-infused limestone cliffs, or relax on beautiful beaches. Many beaches have red golden sand, sheltered bays, and are surrounded by limestone cliffs.

Valletta, the capital, is an elegant city with a lot of history. It can be the right base for exploring the big island. Gozo is the best place for a relaxing beach vacation. Malta gets more than 300 days of sunshine a year.

The island-nation also has a fascinating culture that is influenced by Tunisia, as this African country is very close. In fact, the Maltese language itself is derived from Italian mixed with Arabic. The food has Sicilian and Middle Eastern influences.

You can spend a vacation in Malta just like you want. Get busy and visit the main attractions, enjoy the natural beauty, or just spend a relaxing holiday. Autumn and spring are the best times to visit. There are many outdoor concerts and religious festivals in the villages during the summer.

Here are the places in Malta you shouldn’t miss –

1. Gozo

Gozo, north of the main island, is an idyllic paradise. It has many pristine beaches and quiet towns. You can easily spend a week here. The countryside has traditional villages, valleys, and rolling hills. The hills lead to small coves, beaches, and old fishing ports.

Ramla Bay is the most popular beach on the island. It has a white sandy beach, which slopes down gently into the Mediterranean. You can swim here safely if you want. It has excellent tourist infrastructure, which includes lounge chairs, umbrellas, restrooms, showers, changing areas, and small restaurants.

Ramla Bay — Red sandy beach in Gozo

The larger island has most of the tourist and cultural attractions. But Gozo too has its share. Rabat is a medieval fortified city. Marsalforn is a busy seaside resort. You can also see the Ggantija Temples, which are more than 5000 years old. You will find Baroque churches in many small towns and even in some villages.

The most interesting places of the island of Gozo:

• Dwejra Bay (where the “Azure Window” used to be) — Malta has long been proud of the fact that the famous Azur Windows was chosen as one of the symbols of the island. The Azure Window has become the star of many films, including the popular Game of Thrones series. Unfortunately, the natural arch collapsed in 2017 after a severe storm and the effects of natural erosion. Fortunately, there is another popular attraction in Malta, Wied il Window-mielaħ. The arch located in Garba is a geological phenomenon offering an impressive view.
• The Citadel in Victoria, Gozo Island — The fortress is on top of a hill, with views of the entire island. The fortress is a candidate for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The capital is located right in the center of the island, and all roads, wherever you go, lead here.
• Jaintia — an ancient megalithic complex — Malta is famous for these ancient megalithic complexes, there are only 6 of them here, and Jaintia is the most significant and the most ancient. Just imagine: Jgantia is 600 years older than Stonehenge, and more than a thousand years older than the pyramids of Cheops. They say that this is the oldest structure that has been preserved on our land. All the megalithic temples of Malta are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. But don't expect anything special from them — it looks like it's just a pile of big stones. It is because of the presence of these ancient structures that many Maltese consider themselves descendants of Atlantis.
• Xlendi harbour — This is a small local resort town located in a bay on the seashore. Here you can walk up the steps in the rock to the "Grotto of the Nuns"), admire the views of the bay, and have lunch or dinner at one of the local restaurants on the embankment with fresh seafood. Try the Lampuki fish popular in Malta. If you have enough time, you can walk to Xlendi Tower and walk around the neighborhood. There is a very beautiful and unusual coast.

2. Sliema

Sliema is a resort town in the eastern side of the main island. It has many restaurants, bars, and shops. But the town still retains a laidback vibe. It also has Malta’s longest coastline with many beaches like the MedAsia Playa, Silema beach, and the Fond Ghadir beach. Tower Road runs through the beach area. the 10-kiloemeter promenade is buzzing with activity. You will see many joggers, bars, and BBQ shops.

Malta’s capital Valletta is just across a small creek. Many wealthy Valletta residents come here for nightlife and shopping.

Sliema is also an old town where you will find many traditional buildings. There are historical attractions as well like Fort Tigne, Fort Manoel, and the Stella Maris Church.

3. St. Julians

St. Julians, also called San Gilja, is immediately north of Sliema. Once a small fishing village, it is now a busy resort town and has the most vibrant nightlife scene in Malta. You will find many restaurants, hotels, and luxury villas for rent along the waterfront. There are also many cinemas, bowling alleys, and late-night bars, making it a busy entertainment hub.

There is a lot to do here. Walk along the promenade, visit the nightclubs at Paceville, or admire the Portomaso Tower. Portomaso Tower, the tallest building on the island, is also located here. Visit the 17^th century Spinola Palace and the Love Monument. Don’t forget to add your padlock because this will give you good luck in love.

Every August, a summer fiesta is held St. Julians with fine wine, dining, and dancing.

4. Valletta

Malta’s capital, Valletta, is located on the other side beyond Sliema. It is a small but elegant port city. The 16^th-century Saint John’s Cathedral is located at the heart of Valetta. You will be impressed by the opulent décor. Also visit the huge Grandmaster’s Palace nearby, which was once the home of the Knights of Malta. The King of Spain granted knighthood to the European nobleman in 1530. The palace houses many beautiful paintings and impressive armory. Valletta is a great city if you appreciate historic monuments and culture.

Valletta is the most modern city in Malta. It is also an excellent base for exploring the island. There are ferry services to Sicily as well.

Places to visit in Valletta

• St. John 's Cathedral — The Cathedral of St. John, which was built by the Knights of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, is an impressive cathedral with a rich history.
• Gardens Upper Barrakka — Gardens Upper Barrakka Overlooking the "Three Cities" offer breathtaking views and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the great Siege of 1565.
• Grand Master's Palace — The Grand Master's Palace and its Arsenal, where you can admire a collection of more than 7000 military items (armor, swords, cannons, etc.) from the time of the Knights of the Order.
• Fort St Elmo — Fort-a 14th-century fortress for the protection of Malta's harbors and the National Military Museum
• Sliema Ferry — A pier from where you can go to the neighboring town of Sliema. A round-trip ticket costs 2.80 euros. A great inexpensive boat trip.
• Catholic Carmelite Cathedral — Admission is free. The large round dome of the cathedral appears in many of Valletta's general photographs.
• St. Paul's Cathedral is an Anglican church — Located next to the Catholic
• Malta Postal Museum — A paradise for philatelists

5. Mdina

Mdina is a beautiful medieval hilltop town. Also called Città Notabile or Città Vecchia, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It used to be the capital of the island during the medieval times. It’s a world without cars.

As you enter through the grand main gate, you will feel like you are walking back in time. There is a lot to see within the fortified walls. See the huge ramparts, old sandstone buildings, the St. Paul’s Cathedral with its impressive Baroque architecture, marble columns, domes, and the stunning ceiling paintings.

See the historic palaces with facades inspired by the architecture of the Château de Versailles. The Palazzo Falson Museum houses many ancient coins, carpets, art, and antiques.

6. St Paul’s Catacombs

Very close to the Mdina city center are the catacombs that go back to the 4^th and 9^th centuries. This is the largest Roman burial chamber in Malta. One section of the burial chamber is open for tourists. Go on a tour to learn about the burial traditions of the Romans. It was made outside the city because according to Roman laws, the dead had to be buried outside the city walls. You can also visit the Saint Agatha catacombs nearby.

7. Victoria (Rabat)

Victoria or Rabat is the capital of Gozo island. Sitting on top of a hill, the city wonderfully includes both the old and modern parts. The medieval citadel has fortified walls.

There are many museums to visit. The Gran Castello House is a folklore museum. The Domvs Romana Museum will give you a glimpse into the daily life during the Roman times. The exhibits are on Roman cuisine, entertainment, and fashion. It also has some of the best 1^st-century Roman mosaics. In the Gozo Museum of Archaeology, you will see many prehistoric stone sculptures.

There are other attractions too like the 16^th-century Casa Bernard that has masterpiece paintings and antique furniture. Also visit the 17^th-century Parish Church of St. Paul’s and the Gozo Cathedral, which has richly painting ceilings.

8. Ghadira Bay

Ghadira Bay is the most popular and largest beach in Malta. The Mellieha Bay has clear water, which stays for a mile into the sea, making it one of the safest places for a swim. It’s a crescent-shaped beach with many sun lounger and umbrellas. There is a large parking area and public toilets in the northern end. There are many places to eat, including brand stores like Domino’s and Starbucks. You will also see many boats in the sea, around a floating platform. A ferry service leaves for Comino and the Blue Lagoon.

Very close to the beach is the Ghadira Nature Reserve, which is a swamp area and the home of many birds. You will get stunning views of the entire area, including the sea from here.

9. Blue Lagoon

Blue Lagoon is located in the smallest island of Comino. It has stunning turquoise water that laps the white sandy seabed. It looks like a huge swimming pool as there are no waves here. This is a great place for swimming, floating on inflatable tubes, and relaxing. You can swim to reach the small cove and beach on the other side.

There are lounge chairs and umbrellas on rent. There are also refreshment stands. Around the Blue Lagoon, there are many hiking trails. Water sports is also available. You can also try scuba diving or cliff jumping.

Also visit the nearby Crystal Lagoon, which too has stunning scenery. There are sea caves to explore and the P31 shipwreck for divers.

10. The Blue Grotto

The beautiful Blue Grotto is in the southwestern corner of the big island, close to the international airport. Take a guided boat tour and cruise through the six caves, including the Grotto. You will surely be impressed with the luminous pool and its cobalt-hued water. There are boat trips throughout the year, provided the sea is calm. The water shines in contrast to the limestone rocks of the caves.

It is also popular with divers because there is a lot of marine life here. Also visit the nearby Wied iz-Zurrieq village, where you will find many cafes and souvenir shops. Pick a cliff side restaurant for a meal.

11. Hagar Qim, Mnajdra

Very close to each other, they are both beautiful megalithic temples and some of the world’s most ancient religious sites. Hagar Qim dates back to 3,200 BC. The structures around it are even older. Historians believe that the temple complex was used for fertility rituals and animal sacrifices.

Mnajdra is only 500 meters away. There are three temples to see here. this is the most impressive Maltese megalithic architecture you will find on the island. This site was used for astronomy.

12. Marsaxlokk

Marsaxlokk is a fishing village at the southernmost corner of the main island. It has a busy harbor with many colorful fishing boats. There are a few sea caves to explore in the region and many restaurants that offer seafood. St Peter’s Pool is a beautiful beach.

The area also has an interesting history. It was occupied by the Phoenicians in the 9^th century and later by the Turkish. Archeologists have even found Bronze Age tools.

13. Siggiewi

This is another beautiful village very close to the airport. Also called Città Ferdinand, it is in the fertile Girgenti Valley. See the Parish Church of Saint Nicholas and its Baroque façade at the center of the village. Visit the nearby Dingli Cliffs for scenic views.

The annual Siggiewi Festa is held in June over a week with music, fireworks, and authentic Maltese foods. The Maltese Summer Folklore Nights are held between May and October in the village. The event showcases the culture of the islands with music, food, and dancing.

14. St Peter’s Pool

The Mediterranean hear comes inland and creates a small crystal clear pool. It is a delightful place for swimmers and snorkelers. The water is clean, azure, and strikingly clear. There are rocks all around, so cliff jumping is also a popular activity. You will have to walk a bit to reach St Peter’s Pool but it is totally worth it.

15. The Hypogeum

It is a mysterious underground burial chamber that was constructed between 3000 and 3600 BC. The chambers and passages have been hand cut from rocks. Over time, 7,000 people have been buried here. You can still see carvings and ochre-painted symbols on the walls.

A UNESCO Heritage site, only 80 tourists are allowed a day, so make sure to book your ticket in advance.

16. Dwejra Bay

Head up to the western end of Gozo island to reach the beautiful Dwejra Bay. There are many rock formations formed by the sea and steep cliffs all around. This is one of the best places in Malta for snorkeling and diving. A scenic walking path leads all the way north to the Azure Window.

Game of Thrones fans will recognize this place immediately.

17. Popeye Village

A wonderful theme park for both the kids and their parents. This was originally the set for the 1980 musical “Popeye” starring Robin Williams. Now, the village has 20 wooden structures that includes the firehouse, bakery, post office, and other buildings. You will be greeted by Popeye the sailor as you enter. There is also a beach with sunbathing decks, many souvenir shops, and restaurants.

18. Qawra

The town in the main island has three seafronts with water sports. There are many hotels and holiday villas for rent. The promenade goes all the way to St. Paul’s. You can also rent a boat for a sea cruise. It is also close to St. Julians and its nightlife. The National Aquarium is located at the northern end beside the Qawra Point beach.

19. Marfa

Kilometers of sandy beaches, picturesque coves and a clear sea — this Maltese resort of Marfa attracts thousands of tourists. People come here for the sake of windless weather and golden sand to escape from megacities and let time slow down.

The town of Marfa is located in the north of the island, near the capital Valletta and not far from the International Airport. It is surrounded by unspoilt natural landscapes, and along the coastline there are natural sandy beaches that are rare for Malta.

Marfa is warm all year round: the beach season can be opened in May, and closed in mid-November, when the water temperature is still at around +19+20 degrees. In summer, it is never too hot here: the air warms up to + 30 degrees.

There are no noisy discos and bars in the city. From entertainment — cozy restaurants with home cooking, water sports on the beach, markets and souvenir shops. Marfa is created for romantic walks by the sea and a relaxing pastime. That's why married couples love her so much.

If you want to bask in the sun, watching the sea caress the golden sand — a vacation in Marfa will fulfill your fantasies. It is very easy to forget all the problems here, the soul is filled with light and warmth, and the body gets a well-deserved relaxation.

What to do in Malta?

1. Walk through the museums of Valletta.
2. You can get new knowledge about the difficult history of the country and its cultural heritage at the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts. Also take a look at the Grand Master's Palace.
3. Go to Mdina — the first capital of the state. It is worth buying a multi-ticket right away, which will give you the right to visit all the sights of Mdina. Among them are the catacombs and St. Paul's Cathedral, the Museum of Natural Sciences and many others.
4. Go to the island of Gozo and drive around the local villages.
5. While in Gozo, take a look at Victoria, the capital of the island. A citadel with an ancient prison and an armory is a must-visit.
6. Dance until morning in one of the clubs in the Paceville area.
7. If you want to find out what the biggest disco in Europe looks like, take a look at Axis.
8. Watch the show "The Malta Experience" in the capital.
9. This large-scale performance will tell about the cultural and historical traditions of the island
10. Climb the cliffs of Dingley. This is the highest point of Malta (253 m high), which is a sheer cliff. Fantastic views will open up to you from the observation deck.
11. Go to Sicily by ferry.
12. Visit the Blue Grotto. This is one of the most famous natural attractions of Malta: grottos and deep caves unite in a mysterious labyrinth, and various minerals rest at the bottom, giving the water an incredible blue hue.
13. Go shopping.
14. Most of the shops are concentrated in Valletta, Slim and St. Julian's. From Malta, you can bring a lot of interesting things: openwork 875 and 925 sterling silver, colorful Maltese glass, handmade tableware, marzipan fruits and unsurpassed Maltese wine.
15. Taste Maltese cuisine. Even if you are on a diet — try at least a piece of Maltese bread, cooked in a huge oven according to old recipes. And don't give up Maltese pasta with fresh seafood — it's just a pleasure for the stomach!

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