Exploring the highlights of Malta

Sun-drenched Malta is one of the smallest countries in the world, but when it comes to history, this little island is a big player. Located just south of Sicily and east of North Africa, Malta’s strategic position in the Mediterranean has made it hot property over the centuries. It was once ruled by the Phoenicians, the Romans and then the Byzantines. It saw an Arab invasion and then rule, before being conquered by the Normans and then gifted to the Knights of St John. Malta was later sieged by the Ottoman Empire several times, briefly taken by the French and then captured by the British before gaining independence in the 1960s. All of these comings and goings have left their mark on the Maltese archipelago, and today the islands offer visitors an exciting blend of cultures, cuisine and architecture. Their history and culture are complemented by plenty of sunshine and an array of glorious beaches. So, to inspire your next trip, read on for our top places to visit and things to do in Malta.

Roam the age-old streets of Valletta

Malta’s elegant capital was built by the Knights of St John during the 16th century. Occupying a small peninsula, the city’s honey-colored stone streets and grand buildings are a joy to discover. Valletta is surrounded on three sides by the glinting sapphire blue of the Mediterranean, and its Grand Harbor is always busy with boats.

All of these factors make it a very pleasant city to stroll through, with plenty of opportunity for sea-view pit stops along the way. Don’t miss St John’s Co-Cathedral for its gilded opulence and epic Caravaggio paintings. Valletta’s Grandmaster’s Palace is similarly extravagant, and the preened Upper Barrakka gardens charm visitors with spectacular views and a refreshing sea breeze.

Explore the Three Cities of Malta

Surrounding the Grand Harbor of Valletta is a trio of fortified cities – Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua. Each one has played its part in Malta’s fascinating and tumultuous history. We recommend taking a guided tour of the Three Cities to better understand their stories.

Walk through the ‘silent city’ of Mdina

The atmospheric city of Mdina sits high on a hilltop in central Malta, and is one of Europe’s finest examples of a medieval fortified city. Its caramel-colored stone streets are lined with opulent palaces and beautiful architectural details. Wander its hushed and shady lanes at dusk to understand why it is sometimes known as the ‘silent city’.

Marvel at Malta’s Megalithic Temples

Dating back a mind-boggling number of millennia, Malta’s Megalithic Temples are some of the oldest in the world. Built between 3,600 and 2,000 B.C, it includes seven top archaeological sites to explore on Malta and the neighboring island of Gozo. Perched on a cliff edge, Mnajdra in Malta is perhaps the most striking, but Gigantija, Hagar Qim, and Ta’ Hagrat are all well worth visiting.

Tick off Game of Thrones shooting locations

Well, winter isn’t coming anytime soon here – nonetheless, Malta is home to several Game of Thrones shooting locations. Plenty of nooks and crannies around Valletta have featured in the series. More obviously, the sun-baked landscapes of Gozo provided the backdrop for the Dothraki wedding in season one. Elsewhere, the incredible walled city of Mdina will transport you straight to King’s Landing.

Take a boat trip to Gozo

For a day away from the bustle of Malta’s historical highlights, hop on a boat for a day trip to Gozo. This laid-back island offers a step change and is the perfect place to relax. Spend your time there on a quiet beach, seeking out striking architectural landmarks, or hitting the hiking trails to admire sun-dazzled landscapes.

Descend into the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum

Stepping into this ancient underground labyrinth of tombs is an experience like no other. It was hewn from the rock some 6,000 years ago, and those who worked on its construction followed lines of weakness in the rock to create a series of wide chambers and sweeping arches. To protect this subterranean wonder, visitor numbers are strictly controlled, so be sure to book well in advance of your trip.

Kick back at the seaside village of Marsaxlokk

For a quintessential Maltese fishing village, look no further than Marsaxlokk. Colorful Maltese fishing boats (known as luzzu) bob in the water, and on Sundays the harbor comes alive with the buzz of the weekly fish market. This is the place to come for a slice of traditional Maltese life and to feast on the freshest seafood. Book a table at one of the town’s excellent restaurants, or graze on salty snacks down at the quay.

Sip Malta’s fine wines

Malta isn’t well-known for its wines, but it actually has a thriving wine industry, albeit on a small scale. For those in the know, Malta produces a fabulous selection of very well-thought-of wines, some of them award-winning on an international level. However, due to the scale of production and their local popularity, not many of them make it beyond Maltese shores.

Feast on the many flavors of Malta

Maltese cuisine is very similar to that of Italy, especially Sicily, so to cut a long story short, it’s very good. Seven restaurants have been awarded Michelin stars in Malta and many more come Michelin-recommended. As well as Italian pizazz, there’s also a pinch of North African spice in the mix along with elements that are unique to Malta. Sun-ripened Mediterranean flavors are the order of the day, with plenty of fresh seafood. When it comes to meat, rabbit is popular and often appears on restaurant menus in the form of more rustic and hearty dishes. Malta’s go-to snack is the traditional pastizzi – a moreish little morsel of pastry stuffed with peas and cheese.

Dive into the beauty of the Blue Lagoon

The little island of Comino offers another escape from the busyness of Malta and makes for a nice day trip. Its main draw is the ravishing Blue Lagoon, where you will find crystal-clear turquoise waters and a small sandy cove outlined by a rocky coastline. The sublime beauty of the Blue Lagoon makes it very popular, so do expect to share it with others.

Join the celebrations at a traditional festa

Malta has a strong Catholic tradition with a church (sometimes two) in every village. Once a year, each community celebrates its patron saint with a raucous procession, marching bands, fireworks, festivities, and sweet treats. Attending one of the island’s festas is great fun and offers a glimpse of traditional village life. With over a hundred celebrated every year on Malta and Gozo, you’ll be in with a good chance of joining the party.

Make it happen

Can’t wait to get started? Find your perfect blend of historical highlights and beach time by chatting with our local experts, who will help you uncover more great things to do in Malta as you plan your trip together.