Malta may be small, but one of the things that surprised us most was just how much there is to see and do. With thousands of years of history, dramatic coastline and charming towns, the island offers an incredible amount for such a compact destination.
During our time in Malta, we found ourselves moving easily between historic cities, scenic viewpoints and beautiful swimming spots. Here are the things that stood out to us most and are absolutely worth doing while exploring Malta.
Explore Valletta 🏰
Valletta, the capital, is a beautiful historic city packed with grand architecture, elegant streets and stunning views over the Grand Harbour.
Wandering its streets, visiting the Upper Barrakka Gardens and taking in the mix of history and atmosphere is a wonderful way to spend a day. It feels like an open air museum.
It is worth taking your time to explore both the sights and the quieter corners.
Wander Through Mdina 🌿
Mdina, the ancient silent city, is one of the most atmospheric places on the island.
Its quiet, narrow streets and honey colored buildings feel wonderfully timeless, especially in the evening when the day trippers have left. The views from the city walls over the island are stunning.
It is a magical place to explore, particularly at sunset.
See the Blue Grotto 🌊
The Blue Grotto is a series of dramatic sea caves on the southern coast, known for their incredibly clear blue water.
Taking a small boat trip into the caves, or admiring them from the viewpoint above, is a memorable experience. The colors of the water are truly remarkable.
Going in the morning offers the best light on the water.
Take a Day Trip to Gozo ⛴
A short ferry ride away, the island of Gozo offers a quieter, more rural escape.
With beautiful countryside, historic sites and stunning coastline, it feels like a slower paced version of Malta. It is well worth dedicating a full day to explore.
Gozo is a lovely contrast to the busier main island.
Discover the Coastline ☀️
Malta's coastline is full of beautiful swimming spots, hidden coves and dramatic cliffs.
From natural swimming holes to scenic bays, spending time by the sea is one of the island's great pleasures. The clear water makes it perfect for a refreshing swim.
It is worth exploring a few different coastal areas during your stay.
What Makes Malta So Special ✨
What we loved most about Malta is how much it offers in such a small space.
Historic cities, dramatic coastline, charming towns and a nearby island escape all sit within easy reach. It is a place that constantly rewards exploration.
That variety is exactly what makes exploring Malta so enjoyable.
Make the Most of Your Trip 🌍
Some of the best places in Malta are easy to miss if you do not know where to look beforehand.
That is exactly why we created our Malta Travel Map. It includes the highlights, beaches, viewpoints, restaurants and hidden spots that truly stood out to us, all clearly organized in one easy to use digital map.
So instead of spending time searching while traveling, you can simply enjoy the very best of Malta from the moment you arrive.
