etraveladmin Malta has a lot to offer for a small archipelago. There’s a surprise around every corner, whether you’re driving through dramatic landscapes, photographing ancient structures, or snorkelling on the outskirts of paradise beaches. Spend a weekend in Valletta, Malta’s capital, or spend a summer vacation sailing between the islands, seeing spectacular nature and marine life.
What to do
Malta’s landscapes are wild and rugged, so it’s no surprise that it’s been used as the setting for popular films such as Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and Troy. It is also a cultural melting pot (between Italy and Tunisia and a former British Colony). This can be seen in the food and architecture; you can even find red English telephone boxes on the streets of Valletta! The following are the top places to visit in Malta.
Valletta
Valletta is one of the most important historical cities in the world, as well as Europe’s first planned city. Because of its exceptional history, the entire city has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite being one of Europe’s smallest capital cities, it still has a wow factor and is ideal for a weekend city trip.
You’ll be surrounded by beautiful limestone houses with rainbow-colored window boxes as you walk through the city. Best of all, the lovely hillside streets ensure that there is always a lovely view no matter where you go. Here are some of Valletta’s top attractions:
St. John the Divine Co-Cathedral
St. John’s Co-Cathedral may not appear to be much on the outside, but the inside will stay with you forever. It has one of the most opulent cathedral interiors, with stunning marble, artwork, gold gilding, and ceiling murals. The cathedral admission fee is 15 EUR.
The Upper and Lower Gardens
Both of these parks are lovely places to unwind and watch the world go by during your visit to Valletta, Malta. Because it is high up, the Upper Gardens has a spectacular view of the Grand Harbour and ‘The Three Cities’: Birgu (also known as Vittoriosa), Senglea, and Cospicua.
Birgu
Birgu, the oldest of the three cities just across the water from Valletta, is the most historic (also known as Vittoriosa). It was also the capital city before it was relocated to Valletta. One of the best things to do in Malta is to take a local boat around the city’s outskirts before arriving in Birgu. Traditional Maltese boats are painted in primary colours and resemble those found in Venice.
Once in Birgu, take in the charming village atmosphere by wandering the tiny narrow cobblestone streets, discovering cute wine bars, or enjoying a candlelit dinner on the waterfront.
Visit the beaches of Malta.
Malta has beautiful beaches for sunbathing, cooling off, and relaxing in the afternoon. The beaches on the island are mostly made up of rocks (some with small pools) and a few sand beaches. Mellieha Bay and Golden Bay are the most popular beaches.
Malta’s best beaches:
- Bay of Mellieha
- Golden Bay Riviera Beach (Gajn Tuffiea)
- Fond Gadir Beach
- Sliema’s rocky beach
- Pool of St. Peter
- The famous Blue Lagoon
- Paradise Bay
- Ġnejna Bay
- Armier Bay
- Ta’ Fra Ben (Qawra Point)
Popeye’s Town
The Popeye Village is an unusual location that was built specifically for the 1980 film ‘Popeye,’ starring Robin Williams. It is now a theme park where families can relax and enjoy the beautiful views of the water. The park is fee-based, but the viewpoint is free to visit.
The unusual architecture set against the cliffs and the Caribbean-like water is a sight to behold. A must-see during your visit to Malta!
Mdina (One of the best things to do in Malta)
The ancient city of Mdina appears to be straight out of a historical novel (which explains why it was used as a film set on Game of Thrones!). The dusty walled city sits high on a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside, making it an ideal spot to keep an eye out for intruders.
As a result, it served as the capital until the decision was made to relocate it to Birgu. This is when Mdina became known as “the silent city” of Malta.
Even though people live here now, silence is still respected, with very few cars permitted within the city walls. This provides visitors with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see a city that is incredibly peaceful and well preserved; it’s like stepping back in time!
Pool of St. Peter
St Peter’s Pool is an iconic location and a great thing to do in Malta to cross something off your bucket list. The white rock arch surrounding it has created a natural pool shape, and it’s a lovely place to spend the day. Climb down the ladders into the cool turquoise water to escape the hot sun, or snorkel to see marine life. Skip the ladders and jump straight from the edge into the deep pool below if you’re feeling more daring. Bliss!
Island of Comino
Malta is made up of three islands, the smallest of which is Comino, which is located between Malta and Gozo. It’s incredibly remote and beautiful, with wild nature and a small population. Its name means ‘cumin,’ and the flowering plant, as well as many other wildflowers and herbs, can be found all over the island. Hike through the rocky and wild landscapes. There are no proper roads, and the isolation can make you feel like you’re the only person on the planet!
What to do on the Comino
The Blue Lagoon is one of those things you must see while in Malta. It’s bright blue and feels like a total paradise. However, because it is one of Malta’s most popular attractions, please keep in mind that it will be extremely crowded during peak season!
The Crystal Lagoon. Because the Crystal Lagoon is less well-known than the Blue Lagoon, swimming there is more peaceful. It’s also rockier and not quite as intensely blue, but it’s still a lovely place to visit, and the remoteness adds to its allure.
The Santa Maria Caves Malta has it all: Caribbean-style beaches, turquoise lagoons, and even stunning caves! The Santa Maria Caves are a popular snorkelling destination; it’s a one-of-a-kind location with a diverse array of marine life. The journey there is also interesting, as you must pass through a cave tunnel from Santa Maria Bay.
