Familiar and yet utterly unique, Malta is a microcosm of Mediterranean influences. A millennia of different occupying cultures—Arab, Sicilian, and British, to name a few—has left the islands of Malta with a cultural and culinary mosaic. Despite its diminutive size, the country gifts travelers with a surprising variety of activities; the best things to do in Malta can take you from the medieval streets of Valletta, across the water to the beaches and cliffs of Gozo, or out to countryside megalithic ruins, such as the temple complex of Ħaġar Qim.
If you want to swim and hit the beach on your vacation, visit between late May and early October, when the weather is at its hottest (but do be prepared for scorching temperatures in July and August). If you’d rather avoid the crowds and don’t plan to spend time at the beach, the shoulder seasons of March–April and November–October are good options, offering cooler weather and fewer crowds than what you’ll encounter in summer.
Malta is compact, and it’s easy to get around the country while relying on public transportation alone. There’s also a regular ferry service between Malta and Gozo, and it’s not too hard to get a boat to Comino from either the main island of Malta or from Gozo. If you want to visit multiple stops in one day, taking a group boat tour generally offers the best balance of affordability and convenience.
Take in sunset views as you snack on Maltese treats and sip on cocktails at the Cave Bar in Mellieha. Part cave and part outdoor terrace, this swanky restaurant sometimes brings in musicians for live performances. The menu here is extensive, with pasta, burgers, kids’ items, and Maltese mainstays. If you’ve got a strong stomach and a sweet tooth, try one of the boozy milkshakes.
Local Currency Euro (€) | Time Zone CEST (UTC +1) | Country Code +356 | Language(s) Maltese | Attractions 44 | Tours 587 | Reviews 25,873 |
The island nation of Malta is famous for being a sunny Mediterranean getaway that offers beaches in various forms, crystal clear waters for swimming and diving, fortified cities and towns trapped in time, and ancient neolithic ruins.
...MoreMalta is blessed with plenty of beautiful and scenic places, but it’s easy to argue that the country’s coast is its most beautiful feature, especially around the islands of Comino and Gozo, with their respective crystal clear lagoons and towering cliffs.
...MoreDespite its small size, there’s so much to see in Malta. Highlights include the historic capital of Valletta and ancient site of Hagar Qim on the island of Malta, the crystal clear waters off the island of Comino, and the lofty cliffs along the south coast of Gozo.
...MoreHaving fun and finding fun activities to do is never going to be a problem in Malta, no matter your interests. Opportunities for swimming and diving are always in great supply, while foodies and visitors looking for nightlife will find options to strike any mood.
...MoreFive days in Malta is enough time for you to get a feel for the small island nation, see the capital of Valletta, and do day trips out to areas including Comino, Gozo, and Mdina. That said, you’ll easily find even more things to do if you stay longer.
...MoreTravelers have a lot of options for places to stay in Malta, and you never have to travel too far to reach most places when sightseeing. However, it’s best to stay close to Valletta as the area is convenient for tours, restaurants, bars, and public transportation.
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