Discover Malta: 10 Must-See Attractions for an Amazing Trip

Malta: A Sun-Soaked Island

Malta is an archipelago of three islands (Malta, Gozo, and Comino) located in the Mediterranean Sea, and it is one of the smallest countries in the world. As a European Union member, Malta offers the convenience of using the euro, and English is widely spoken, making it easy for visitors to communicate. With a Mediterranean climate, Malta is a year-round destination, boasting around 300 days of sunshine per year. If you're visiting in the summer, be prepared for the heat. I often recommend visiting in autumn when the temperatures are milder, and the sea is at its warmest, offering a more comfortable experience.

I absolutely love Malta and wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone! For my husband and me, it's our all-time favorite little island, a perfect getaway whenever we need to recharge. Our personal favorite is Gozo, ideal for those seeking a retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Despite its tranquility, Gozo offers plenty of attractions and, in my opinion, boasts one of the best beaches. Conversely, Malta itself is perfect for those who thrive on excitement and energy. With its fantastic coastal areas, charming towns, and unique architecture, Malta has something special for everyone.

Why Visit Malta?

Stunning beaches
Excellent diving spots
Thousands of years of historical buildings
Delicious cuisine
Great hiking trails
Boating opportunities
Famous Maltese festivals
Numerous film locations to explore

Here are my 10 favorite tips:

1. Salt Pans

On the northern coast of Gozo, just above Marsalforn, lies the striking and essential landmark known as the Salt Pans. These pans preserve an ancient trade and craft, harvesting one of Gozo's most important natural resources: salt. The process of evaporating seawater to produce sea salt has changed little over the centuries. Seawater is pumped from the sea into large feeder pools where it becomes highly concentrated. It is then transferred to smaller, shallower basins. With the help of good seawater and favorable winds, the sun heats the rock, evaporating the seawater and leaving behind natural sea salt.

2. Blue Grotto: A Must-See Natural Wonder

The Blue Grotto in Malta is one of the most popular attractions that you shouldn't miss. It consists of a network of six stunning caves where boat tours take visitors. You can spot jellyfish swimming in the clear blue waters, creating a mesmerizing sight. If you prefer staying on land, you can also admire the caves from a lookout point, where the water dazzles in shades of blue.

3. Birgu: A Medieval Gem in Malta

The Three Cities - Vittoriosa (Birgu), Senglea (L-Isla), and Cospicua (Bormla)

Located opposite Valletta, the Three Cities are situated on three small peninsulas or promontories. These fortified cities were established by the Knights of Malta and played a crucial role during the Great Siege, successfully defending Malta against the invading Ottoman forces.

Birgu (Vittoriosa), one of Malta's most beautiful medieval cities, lies directly across from Valletta, the capital, and the waterfront. You can reach it via the local water taxi (Dgħajsa).

Be sure to take a leisurely stroll through its charming streets, visit the bustling main square filled with lively cafés and restaurants, or admire the St. Angelo Fort with its stunning views of Valletta.

If you’d like to explore Malta, I highly recommend renting a car!🚗

Why?

Because it makes reaching those harder-to-access spots much easier. There are some amazing places on the island where buses don’t go, or the nearest stop is at least a 30-minute walk away – sometimes uphill! Plus, having a car saves you time, so you can explore even more of this beautiful country.

Check it out: Car rental options

4. Blue Lagoon: Malta's Iconic Natural Wonder

The Blue Lagoon is one of Malta's most iconic natural wonders, located off the coast of Comino Island and accessible by boat. With its crystal-clear, turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, the Blue Lagoon is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling. The shallow, gradually deepening bay makes it a great destination for families with children.

However, it does get very crowded. If you don't arrive early, you might not find enough space to even lay down your towel. It's best to visit on weekdays and avoid the summer months due to the crowds. In my opinion, the best time to go is from late September to mid-October. The water remains pleasantly warm throughout the year.

I also recommend bringing water shoes, as most of the beach is rocky. You’ll find that the surrounding bay is lined with rocks, which are where you’ll likely have to place your belongings. These rocks also serve as your path to the water and the sandy areas.

5. Ta' Pinu Basilica: A Sanctuary of Legends

Located on Gozo, Ta' Pinu Basilica is a stunning Roman Catholic church and a national shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

It is famous for two legendary stories:

1. Pietro Dusina's Divine Intervention: The first legend involves Pietro Dusina, a Roman Catholic priest overseeing the affairs of the Gozitan Catholic Church, who ordered the demolition of several Gozitan churches and sanctuaries, including the one that stood on the site of the present-day Ta' Pinu, due to their poor condition. However, the first worker assigned to demolish Ta' Pinu broke his arm with the first swing of the hammer, which was interpreted as a divine sign. As a result, the church was spared and stands to this day.

2. Karmni Grima's Miraculous Encounter: The second legendary story is associated with Karmni Grima, a local Gozitan woman. In 1883, while walking past the dilapidated church, Karmni Grima heard a woman's voice, which she identified as the Virgin Mary. Later, others also heard the voices, and miraculous healings occurred nearby, attributed to the grace of the Virgin Mary. Today, a statue of Karmni Grima stands at the entrance of the Ta' Pinu Basilica.

It is worth visiting because it has a unique atmosphere.

Looking for some adventure here?😊

If you’re craving active experiences, you’ve come to the right place! I’ve had a blast trying out various activities in Malta, and I can't recommend them enough. Take a peek at the options below to find your next unforgettable experience. You won't regret it! 👌

6. Calypso Cave and Ramla Bay

According to local legends, the Calypso Cave, situated above Ramla Beach, was the nymph Calypso's cave, connected to her palace by a labyrinth. In Homer's epic, the Odyssey, the island of Ogygia, where Odysseus was said to have been shipwrecked, is believed to be the island of Gozo, and the Tal Mixta Cave is thought to be the very cave of the sea nymph Calypso.

Calypso, a sea nymph and the daughter of the Titan Atlas, was confined on the island of Ogygia. According to myth, Odysseus was shipwrecked here and cared for by Calypso in her palace. Calypso fell in love with Odysseus, but the feeling was not mutual as Odysseus longed to return to his family. Consequently, Calypso imprisoned him and his crew. It was only after seven years, upon the request of Athena and the command of Zeus, that she released him.

From Calypso Cave, there is a breathtaking view of Ramla Bay and its red sandy beach.

Ramla Beach

Ramla Beach is my personal favorite spot in Malta. It's the country's only red sandy beach, making it a unique and popular destination on Gozo. Despite its popularity, it tends to be less crowded compared to the popular beaches on the main island of Malta. The beautiful reddish sand has a silky, pleasant texture, making it a perfect spot for relaxing, sunbathing, and unwinding.

Underneath the water, there are numerous caves, making it a paradise for divers who frequent this beach. While Malta's islands are generally known for their rocky coastlines, Ramla Beach offers a sandy alternative. However, it's still a good idea to bring water shoes when visiting the islands for added comfort and safety. If you enjoy snorkeling or diving, you won't be disappointed with the underwater sights here. There are also secluded spots worth exploring, adding to the charm and adventure of this beautiful beach.

Of course, like many other popular destinations, Ramla Beach can become very crowded during the peak summer season.

7. Local Delicacies: Exploring Maltese Cuisine

The Maltese cuisine is delicious and worth exploring. Here are some local favorites you shouldn't miss:

Pastizzi: This traditional Maltese savory pastry is made from flaky puff pastry, commonly filled with either mashed peas or ricotta cheese. It's a popular breakfast item sold in bars, cafes, and street stalls.
Maltese Bakeries: I highly recommend visiting the local bakeries. Everything from the bread to the muffins is divine, and trying anything here will surely delight your taste buds.
Rabbit Meat: Rabbit is Malta's national dish, served roasted, stewed, or with tomato sauce and spaghetti. It's a must-try for anyone visiting the island.
Lampuki: This popular fish in Malta migrates past the island in autumn. It's a mild-tasting fish, often served fried. Be sure to try a lampuki dish during your stay.
Refreshing Drinks: Try the local beer, CISK, a light and refreshing option, perfect for the hot weather. Wine lovers should sample the robust Maltese wines like Marsovin and Verdala. Maltese also enjoy fruit beers, known as cyder. The local favorite carbonated drink, KINNIE, has a unique taste worth trying at least once to see if you like it.

Personal Tip: Portions in Maltese restaurants are generally large, and many places serve a complimentary appetizer, which often includes various cold cuts, cheeses, vegetables, and spreads with fresh, warm bread. These appetizers can be quite filling on their own! I recommend trying the small family-run restaurants in traditional towns like Mgarr, Marsaxlokk, Rabat, and Nadur for an authentic dining experience.

8. The Ġgantija Temples

The Ġgantija Temples: On the island of Gozo, you'll find the Ġgantija Temples, a remarkable Neolithic temple complex. These ancient structures are among the world’s oldest free-standing buildings, predating even the Egyptian pyramids. Local legend has it that the temples were built by giants, which is how they got their name ("Ġgantija" means "giant" in Maltese). The temples date back over 5,000 years and were used for religious ceremonies, likely dedicated to fertility rites. The Ġgantija complex is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and offers a fascinating glimpse into Malta’s prehistoric past, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Ready to explore Malta?😊🤩

With awesome spots like the ancient Ġgantija Temples and the lovely streets of Valletta, there's a ton to explore all year round. And don’t think it’s just for summer - autumn and winter are great times to visit too! Here are plenty of fun activities and deals to help you enjoy your time in Malta. Whether you’re into history, great food, or just relaxing in the sun, there’s something here for everyone!😉

9. Mdina, the Silent City

Mdina is a small, walled medieval fortress town that has preserved its old-world style and atmosphere. Once serving as Malta's capital, it was founded by the Phoenicians and is even mentioned in the Bible in the story of St. Paul. Named the Silent City due to its car-free streets, Mdina offers horse-drawn carriage tours for those who prefer not to walk. The city is full of attractions, including narrow medieval streets, St. Paul’s Cathedral, viewpoints, old noble palaces, museums, and charming restaurants.

An interesting tidbit is that several episodes of the Game of Thrones series were filmed here.

10. Valletta, One of Europe’s Smallest Capitals

Valletta is a unique, historic city built on a medieval fort, featuring charming stepped streets and spacious pedestrian avenues. The city's rich history is reflected in its beautifully preserved Baroque architecture and its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lined with numerous cozy outdoor restaurants and terraces, making it a delightful place to explore. Valletta is rich in attractions, offering a variety of sights to see:

St. John's Co-Cathedral: One of Europe's largest Baroque churches, featuring a simple facade that hides an astonishingly ornate interior.
Republic Street and Merchant Street: The two main shopping streets in Valletta, bustling with activity and lined with shops.
Triton Fountain: Featuring three Triton figures (Triton, a Greek mythological god, is the son of Poseidon, half-human, half-fish) holding a metal dish. This composition symbolizes strength and endurance, reflecting Valletta's history.
Casa Rocca Piccola: The only still-inhabited palace in Valletta. Since the 16th century, it has been home to nine generations of the de Piro marquis family.
Barrakka Gardens: Where daily at noon, the sound of cannon fire echoes through Valletta.
Siege Bell War Memorial: Offers breathtaking views over Grand Harbour and the fortresses of the Three Cities from its balcony.

Valletta is a bustling capital. If you enjoy a lively atmosphere, be sure to experience the vibrant nightlife, filled with numerous bars and open terraces that are popular among locals. There’s something happening almost every night throughout the year, with a fiesta atmosphere on Fridays and Saturdays.

+1 attraction:

The Dingli Cliffs

These stunning sea cliffs on the west coast of Malta are the island’s highest point, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, especially at sunset. It’s a peaceful and less touristy spot, ideal for nature lovers and photographers. The surrounding area also has historical chapels and remnants of ancient fortifications, adding a cultural touch to the visit. It’s an amazing place to include for anyone who wants a blend of natural beauty and a serene atmosphere.

Final words

Thank you for taking the time to read about Malta’s top 10 must-see sights! I hope you’ve found it helpful and inspiring for your trip. If you're eager to learn more about Malta or want a detailed travel guide to make the most of your adventure, feel free to register on my website. You'll get access to plenty of useful tips, and you can also purchase the guide to ensure you're fully prepared to explore this beautiful, small island.

Looking forward to helping you experience the best of Malta!

Happy Travels!

Additional Planning Help

Looking for help planning your trip? Check out these trusted resources for easy accommodation, car rentals, and guided tours:

Car rental: Discovercars.com
Guided tours: Getyourguide.com
Accommodations and flights: Expedia.com, Hotels.com, Vrbo.com

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