10 must-visit places in Malta

Valletta, the capital city of Malta, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Founded by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century, it is characterized by impressive fortifications, elegant Baroque buildings, and picturesque harbors. Explore its narrow streets lined with charming cafes, boutique shops, and historic landmarks such as St. John’s Co-Cathedral – you wouldn’t want to miss its ornate interiors, Caravaggio paintings, and marbled tombstones of the Knights of the past. For panoramic views of the Grand Harbour, walk through the Upper Barrakka Gardens; elsewhere, learn about Malta’s rich history at the National Museum of Archaeology, or deep-dive into its military past at Fort St. Elmo.

Mdina, often referred to as the ‘Silent City’, exudes an aura of Roman grandeur set against the backdrop of Malta’s picturesque countryside. Nestled deep within the island’s unspoiled heartland, Mdina was once the enclave of Malta‘s elite, its medieval architecture now a testament to its affluent past. Amongst its treasures are the Domvs Romana, a remarkable archaeological site from antiquity, and the Norman House (also known as Palazzo Falson), renowned for its impeccably-preserved architecture adorned with priceless paintings, intricate jewelry, and historic armor.

For a full day out and about, admire the stunning architecture of St. Paul’s Cathedral, dive into the darker side of history with a trip to the Mdina Dungeons, or visit the Mdina Experience where the past is brought back to life through an immersive audiovisual journey.

Nestled along the northwest coast of the island, St. Paul’s Bay bears historical significance dating back to 60 AD when the Apostle Paul, believed to have laid the foundation of Christianity in Malta, was shipwrecked here during his journey to Rome. In commemoration of his impactful presence on the island, the bay and the accompanying St. Paul’s Church stand as enduring tributes to his legacy. While you’re here, take time to visit the nearby town of Mellieha, home to the impressive hilltop Red Tower, and walk through the streets of the Bugibba district to seek out charming cafes and an on-the-pulse nightlife scene.

Located on the island of Gozo, Ggantija is a megalithic temple complex! It’s one of the oldest freestanding religious structures in the world, dating back to approximately 3,600 BC, making it older than the Egyptian pyramids and Stonehenge. The name Ggantija is derived from Maltese and means ‘giant’s tower’, reflecting the awe-inspiring scale of the temples. This incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site was formed in the Neolithic era over 5,000 years ago, and represents cultural and artistic developments from an early period in human life – it’s must-see when visiting Malta.

Comino is a small island located between the islands of Malta and Gozo in the Mediterranean Sea; it’s also the smallest inhabited island in the Maltese archipelago, covering an area of just 3.5 sq km! Once a pirate’s haven, this tiny gem offers some of the best swimming, snorkeling and diving in the Mediterranean, with the Blue Lagoon being one of the island’s most popular attractions. This sapphire sea pool is renowned for its vibrant marine life and underwater caves, making it a favorite spot for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers. Elsewhere, discover the island’s history at Saint Mary’s Tower, a 17th-century coastal fortress built by the Knights of Malta. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding sea and coastline, and learn about the tower’s role in defending against pirate attacks.