tourism malta

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Need a bit of face-to-face help? That’s what our VisitMalta Tourist Information Centres are here for! Located in Valletta, Mdina, and other major tourist areas, you’ll always find a friendly face and the help you need to make the most of your trip to our Islands!

Please click here for the list of Tourist Information Centres in the Maltese Islands. 

Plan Your Trip to Malta: Best of Malta Tourism

Essential Malta

My favorite beaches in Malta

How to do Malta in 3 days

Browse collections

For the history buff.

Spend the day at sea

Raise a glass

Get the catch of the day

Head to the beach

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Malta International Airport Guide

Best Hotels

Top Things to Do in Malta

Top Things to Do in Valletta

Best Museums

Adventurous Things to Do in Malta

48-Hour Itinerary

Must-Try Food

Best Restaurants

Your Trip to Malta: The Complete Guide

Malta, or the Republica of Malta, is an island nation in the central Mediterranean, located between Sicily and North Africa. It includes the main island of Malta (home to the capital city, Valletta), the smaller island of Gozo, and the tiny, barely populated island of Comino. Over the millennia, Malta's strategic position has made it a prized possession of civilizations, kingdoms, and regional powers seeking to control trade in the Mediterranean. As a result, Malta has a fascinating history, with influences of Roman, Arab, Norman, Spanish and British cultures, among others—seen especially in its historic cities.

Malta is also known for the waters that surround it—the Mediterranean Sea around Malta and its associated islands is clear, deep, and very popular with divers and snorkelers. For Europeans, Malta is a quick island getaway for warm weather, beaches, and history.

Planning Your Trip

Here are some basics for planning your trip to Malta.

Best Time to Visit:  Summers in Malta are hot, dry, and crowded, as July to September is peak season. To avoid the crowds but still be relatively sure of warm but not hot weather, the best time to visit is in the late spring to early summer, from April to June. By May, the sea is warm enough for swimming.

Language:  The official languages of Malta are Maltese and English. The former is a Semitic language with its roots in the Arab-Sicilian domination of Malta in the Middle Ages. Italian is also widely spoken on the island. Why most Maltese speak the Maltese language among themselves, you'll find that most also speak English, especially in hotels, shops, and restaurants.

Currency:  Malta is part of the European Union and uses the Euro as its currency  . No other currencies are accepted.

Getting Around:  Malta has an efficient public bus system that connects to the airport, cruise port, and most cities, towns, and tourist sites, including on Gozo. If you decide to rent a car, keep in mind that Malta adheres to British driving rules, meaning cars have their steering wheels on the car's righthand side, and driving is on the lefthand side of the road. Taxis are numerous and easy to find. Motor scooter and bicycle rentals are popular ways to get around, and a water taxi service carries passengers across Valletta's Grand Harbour.

Travel Tip:  Malta is small but densely populated and congested. In high season and at morning and evening rush hour, expect to spend some time sitting in traffic.

TripSavvy / Linda Strauta

Things to Do

Visitors to Malta mostly come for three reasons: history, the sea, and a fun, resort-like feel. You might pass a vacation here by visiting historical and archaeological sites one day, and beaches and swimming spots another. If you have the chance to get out on the water in a boat, whether it's a ferry, kayak, or chartered sailboat, don't miss it. In the evenings, the lively alleys of the capital city of Valletta are lined with open-air restaurants and bars.

Here are a few sights and activities not to be missed:

• Visit historic cities and sites. Valletta, the fortified capital city of Malta, dominates the Grand Harbour. The 16th-century city was built by the Knights of Malta in high Baroque style and has a well-preserved historic center. The fortress city of Mdina was built by the Arabs in the 11th century and served as Malta's capital until the 1500s. The Megalithic Temples of Malta, including Ħaġar Qim and four others, are the oldest free-standing stone structures globally   and a combined UNESCO World Heritage Site. For some perspective: they predate the pyramids of Egypt, Stonehenge, and Ireland's New Grange.
• Get in the water. The islands of Malta, Gozo, and Comino are ringed by dramatic rocky coves with stunningly clear water and a few sandy beaches. Top sandy beaches include Golden Bay Beach and red-hued Ramla Bay on Gozo. For swimming and snorkeling, On tiny Comino, the aptly named Blue Lagoon is famous for its otherworldly turquoise waters. On Malta, St. Peter's Pool has huge rock slabs for sunning in-between jumping into blue-green waters. From the beautiful swimming cove at Għar Lapsi, you can catch a boat to the Blue Grotto, the most famous of the many sea caves carved into the shorelines of Malta and Gozo.
• Party into the night. Malta is a party destination, attracting young and old revelers to dine out, drink and socialize at top spots all over the island. In Valletta's Old Town, narrow, steep alleyways are lined with bars and restaurants that buzz with activity from early evening. In the combined area of Sliema, St. Julian's, and St. George's Bay, modern luxury hotels, beach resorts, and shopping, dining, and entertainment complexes draw revelers from across Europe and beyond.

For more on things to do in Malta, check our articles on the Most Adventurous Things to Do in Malta and the Top Things to Do in Malta .

What to Eat and Drink

As with Maltese history and culture, Malta's cuisine has been greatly influenced by the many cultures that ruled the islands over thousands of years. Most prevalent is the Italian influence—there are Italian restaurants and pizzerias all over Malta and Gozo. But the cuisine also has elements of French, Greek, Arabic, Spanish and British cooking. Rabbit is among the most popular dishes in the country, prepared any number of ways but most often in a stew, called stuffat tal-fenek . Pastizzi are savory pastries filled with peas or a ricotta mixture. Another only-in-Malta dish is ftira , a flatbread that is either stuffed with savory ingredients or served like a pizza, with cheese, vegetables and often, sausage or other meat. Lampuki pie is a local fish pie baked with potatoes, mint, and capers.

Both red and white wines are developed in Malta. White wines are crisp and dry, and include Chardonnay, Vermentino, Viognier and Sauvignon Blanc. Syrah and Merlot are two of the most commonly found reds on the island. Cisk is the local craft beer, and you'll find bartenders mixing up a range of international cocktails, including the ubiquitous Aperol Spritz.

Where to Stay

Where you base your stay in Malta depends largely on your interests. Keep in mind that the island is small and can be easily traversed by rental car or bus. Valletta, the capital city, has several important sights, is close to the airport, has a range of accommodation options, and is a good hub for exploring the rest of the country. Sliema, St. Julian's, and St. George's Bay have the largest concentration of luxury hotels, though there are less expensive options here as well. Families and couples come here for the beaches, and the younger crowd hits nearby Paceville for the nightlife. Quiet Mellieħa is favored by those who want to spend the majority of their time at the beach. Gozo is also much quieter and lower-key than the busiest parts of Malta and draws an older crowd looking for total relaxation and lots of time in the sun and sea.

Getting There

Small, easily navigable Malta International Airport (MLA) is the country's only airport. While there are no direct flights between Malta and the U.S., the airport is well-connected to Europe, the Middle East, and Russia. Air Malta, Alitalia, RyanAir, EasyJet, and Wizz Air are among the carriers with the most frequent flights in and out. The airport is about 10 kilometers from downtown Valletta and is connected to Valletta and the rest of the island by bus or taxi.

Gozo is only reachable by ferry or private boat, or charter. Ferries depart about every 30 minutes from the port at Ċirkewwa, on the northern tip of Malta, for the 25-minute ride to Gozo. Vehicle, foot, and bike passengers are welcomed on board.

Culture and Customs 

Malta ranks only behind Romania as the most religious country in Europe. And despite its reputation as a European party destination, its population is devout, with a wide majority identifying as Roman Catholic and attending mass regularly. When entering any church, be sure that your shoulders and chest are covered and that your legs are covered from the knees up—this goes for all genders.

In restaurants, tip about 5-10 percent of the bill. If a service charge has been added, you don't need to tip, though a euro or two extra for good service is always appreciated.

Money-Saving Tips

In terms of vacation costs, Malta falls right about in the middle of the rest of Europe—cheaper than destinations like Paris and Venice, but more expensive than Eastern Europe, for example. Here are a few ways to save money on your vacation to Malta:

• Buy the Malta Pass. If you plan to do a lot of sightseeing in one day or a few days, the Malta Pass is a good investment. It includes admission to more than 35 top attractions, plus a sightseeing bus to get around on.
• For meals, go casual. The Maltese snacks of ftira and pastizzi are cheap, handheld meals in themselves. They're sold, along with tasty sandwiches and pizza, just about everywhere, especially near beaches and other destinations where tourists gather.

European Union, The euro as the official currency, 2020

UNESCO, Megalithic Temples of Malta

The Top 15 Things to Do in Malta

The Best Time to Visit Malta

The Top 13 Things to Do on Gozo

18 Most Beautiful Islands in the World

48 Hours in Malta: The Ultimate Itinerary

The 15 Top Things to Do in Valletta, Malta

The Top 10 Foods to Try in Malta

The 10 Best Restaurants in Malta

St. Bart’s Guide: Planning Your Trip

Planning a Honeymoon in Greece: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to the Bahamas: The Complete Guide

Trips to Sicily: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to St. Lucia: The Complete Guide

The Most Adventurous Things to Do in Malta

The World's Most Gay-Friendly Beach Cities and Resorts

Malta travel guide and tourism info for the curious traveller

Your complete travel guide for Malta and Gozo

Malta Uncovered helps you plan your trip to Malta and Gozo from A to Z.

My name is Ed, and I’ll be your virtual Malta travel guide to the Maltese islands. All information and most photos that you’ll come across on Malta Uncovered was written by myself, from personal experience as a life-long tourist in Malta. I’ve also written two guide books:

• Malta & Gozo guide book
• Valletta travel guide book

Written by a tourist-turned-expat, you get up-to-date info, first-hand local knowledge, and lots of tips and recommendations to help guide you on what to book, where to go, how to get around and much more.

Whether it’s your first time going to Malta or you’re coming back for another trip, my goal is to make your trip to Malta one to remember for all the right reasons.

This small island nation offers a lot more than sun and sea, and I’m here to help you uncover all you need to know about your next travel destination.

Below you’ll find a preview of what you can learn on Malta Uncovered. Happy dreaming/prepping! :)

Looking for a Malta guidebook?

Buy a digital or printed Malta guidebook to have all the essentials available on your phone or in your pocket!

Where to stay

Where you stay can make a big difference to your holiday experience.

Let me help you with:

• Deciding where to stay in Malta
• Reviews of the best hotels in Malta and the best hotels in Gozo
• Recommendations for the best Malta holiday packages .

Destinations

Get to know a few of the different destinations in Malta you can choose to stay in:

• Majestic Valletta, Malta’s capital city
• Popular tourist resorts Buġibba , Qawra and St. Paul’s Bay
• The more urban seaside resorts of Sliema and St. Julian’s
• The quieter northern town of Mellieħa with its beautiful surroundings and beaches
• Less touristy options: Mdina and Rabat , The Three Cities , Marsaxlokk and Marsaskala .

Planning: What to do

Maximise your trip with ideas, recommendations and tips on everything you can choose to do on your holiday in Malta.

• Malta itinerary for 7 days or one week
• 4 or 5 Days in Malta
• 3 Days in Malta
• Get ideas here:  40+ Things to do in Malta
• The  best beaches in Malta  and Gozo’s beaches.

What to see

• Get my recommendations on the  25+ Best Malta Tours, Day Trips, Boat Trips, Excursions and Activities
• Discover the  best places to visit in Malta and Gozo
• Add some of the best  museums  around to your trip plan.

Getting around

Get to know what the best ways are to get around the Maltese islands.

•  All you need to know about  public transport and getting around  in general
• Search for the best  Malta car hire  rates
• Getting  airport transfers  booked in advance.

Tips and local knowledge

You’ll find hundreds of tips and insights that only locals can tell you all across the site. These are a few highlights:

• What’s the  weather in Malta  like around the year?
• Tips and what to expect when  driving in Malta
• Whet your appetite:  Maltese food  and where to get a taste
• My selection of the  50 Best Restaurants in Malta .

Get to know Malta

Malta is a lot more than a sea-and-sun destination. Getting to know the local culture, people and history in advance will help you get more out of your trip to the Maltese islands.

• Read up about the local  culture in Malta , traditional, religious events like the  village festa .
• Understand  Malta’s rich history  and the impact that the  Knights of the Order of St. John  had.
• Read about the  Megalithic temples  that Malta is known for.

Get to know Gozo & Comino

Malta (the country) is made up of three inhabited islands. The main island Malta is the largest, but Gozo and Comino also have a lot to offer for curious travellers.

• Discover the natural beauty of the  island of Gozo
• Get to know  Comino , the smallest of the Maltese islands and its popular  Blue Lagoon .

Meet Edward, the author and editor

My name is Ed, and I’m the author and editor of Malta Uncovered and two  guide books . My mission is to make your trip to the Maltese islands memorable.

Having travelled to Malta myself as a tourist on many occasions and having lived in Malta for over a decade now, I know the Maltese islands inside out. On Malta Uncovered I share my experiences, insights and recommendations to help make your trip a success.

More about me and Malta Uncovered .

Get the best travel tips from Malta Uncovered delivered to you in bite-sized chunks by email. (Unsubscribe at any time!)

© 2006-2024 Malta Uncovered. All Rights Reserved.

Visit Malta: Top 27 things to do and best places to visit

The 27 best things to do in malta (+ activities).

You want to visit Malta for your next trip?

Great choice!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have create this guide of the best things to do in Malta , but also in Gozo and Comino , the 2 smaller islands of the country.

In this guide, you will discover all the activities, must see attractions and points of interest of this beautiful small Mediterranean country.

To make everything even easier for you, you can book all the best activities to do in Malta, Gozo and Comino directly in this guide. It’s very easy, you just have to click on the green buttons and orange links you will find throughout the article.

So, what are the best places to visit in Malta? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. Valletta

3. blue lagoon and comino island, 4. enjoy a quad bike ride in malta, 5. scuba diving in malta, 6. the three cities, 9. sliema and st julian’s, 10. marsaxlokk, 11. st peter’s pool, 13. blue grotto, 14. dingli cliffs, 15. the red tower, 16. the megalithic temples of malta, 17. doing sports and fun activities in malta, 18. malta, gozo and comino best beaches, 19. water sports and activities in malta, 20. renting a boat in malta, 21. hiking in malta, 22. do a game of thrones tour, best bars in malta:, best nightclubs in malta, 24. go to a “boat party”, 25. popeye village, 26. visit malta national aquarium, 27. playmobil fun park, gozo island, sliema and saint julian’s, the 4 best activities to do in malta, 1) the best activities in malta (and from malta), 2) the best activities in gozo, malta tourist map, book your trip to malta in 1 click, you’re traveling in malta these articles will help you, visit malta: the 27 best places to visit and must-see attractions.

In order to help you plan your stay in Malta, I have prepared detailed itineraries depending on your trip duration . You should read them after reading this article.

You can find them here, simply click on the orange links to read the articles:

• Itinerary: 2-3 Days in Malta – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions!
• Itinerary: 4-5 Days in Malta – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions!
• Itinerary: 1 Week in Malta – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions!
• Itinerary: 10 Days in Malta – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions!

They will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

And if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section, at the end of the article. I would be glad to help you plan your stay.

Let’s start this list of the best things to do in Malta with Valletta , the capital. Walk around this lovely city and look at the beautiful architecture, historical museums and amazing views over the sea and neighbor cities .

Here are the best places to visit in Valletta:

The Saint John’s Co-Cathedral might not look very interesting from the outside, but wait until you see what’s inside ! It’s full of gold and magnificent paintings from Caravaggio .

Below the marbled floor lay the tombs of the Grand Masters of the Order of Malta and other nobles. Close to 400 of them are buried there, it’s a must see for history lovers in Malta!

Grandmaster’s Palace was once their home. While the Supreme Council Hall and the Ambassador’s Room are worth the visit, the most impressive room is for sure the armory.

It houses a collection of more than 5,000 armors and weapons , once belonging to the knights and grand masters.

Republic Street and Merchant Stree t are the main commercial streets in Valletta, with numerous stores and restaurants.

The Manoel Theatre , one of the oldest in Europe.

The Fort Saint Elmo , also housing the National War Museum.

At the National Museum of Fine Arts, you will find a collection of objects, sculptures and paintings which belonged to the Order of Malta .

The Barraka Gardens , also called Upper Barraka Garden and Lower Barraka Garden. The lower garden is quite small but has a very photogenic temple .

The upper one is bigger, with nice colonnades and a wonderful view over the 3 cities . Below you can see the Saluting Battery: an artillery battery used in the past to salute foreign vessels. It’s still functioning nowadays and fires everyday at noon.

Voyage Tips Advice If you’re going to Valletta, park your car in the MCP parking lot, right next to the old town entrance. It’s affordable (we have paid 6€ for 7 hours) and very well located (only 5min walking distance from the city center).

If you want to learn everything about Valletta, you should really opt for a guided visit on foot. The guides are really amazing, you will have a great time!

This guided visit needs to be booked here:

This guided visit also exists in “private” version (only for your group – book it here ) and as an historical version “Valletta during World War 2”, which needs to be booked there (also a private tour) .

And if you want to discover Valletta from the sea, there is another great activity: The “2 harbours tour” on board a “Luzzu”, a traditional Maltese boat.

Simply click the button below to book it:

Looking for more information about what to do in Valletta? Check out our article and suggested itineraries to visit the city in 1, 2 or 3 days: The 10 best places to visit in Valletta.

Gozo is the second largest island in Malta. It’s more rural and quiet with wonderful landscapes and nice beaches and coves. There are really many things to do in Gozo.

To get there, take the Gozo Channel Line ferry, from Cirkewwa on Malta island . The trip lasts about 20min and you can board with a vehicle. Boarding is fast and well organized .

In the ferry, you can find a cafetaria and a convenience store selling food, magazines and souvenirs.

• Ticket Fare: we paid 25€ for 3 people and one vehicle.
• Useful tip: you only have to pay on your way back.

From June 1, 2021, you can also take the fast ferry from Valletta to Gozo.

The ferry departs from Valletta Grand Harbor and will take you to Gozo in 45 minutes.

This boat only takes passengers and no cars. You will disembark at the same place as the other ferry, at Gozo Mgarr harbor.

For prices and schedules, you can find all the information on the official website.

Once you arrive in Gozo, these are the best places to visit:

• Victoria, also called Rabat by the locals, is the main city in Gozo . It’s a great place for shopping and food, but the main attraction is for sure the Cittadella , the fortified part of the city. Located on a hill, it’s home to the Cathedral, the old prison, archaeological sites and of course, amazing views over Gozo from the ramparts.
• Djewra region in the North-West, famous for the Azur Window (unfortunately it collapsed in 2017), Fungus Rock, the Inland Sea and the Deep Blue Hole
• Marsalforn is a popular beach town during summertime, the main attraction being the 3km long salt pans on the edge of the city.
• Ta’Pinu shrine is a dazzling church. Built on a small hill, you can see it from far away.
• Ta’Cenc cliffs, 130m high, offer a lovely scenic view. If you have a drone, this is the place to use it!
• Ggantija temples , among the most impressive and best preserved temples on the island
• Ramla Bay beach , the biggest sand beach in Gozo. A perfect beach for families with plenty of space for kids to play.

If you want to visit Gozo as a day trip or with a guided visit , you will have the choice between the following tours: (you can click on the links for more info and to book the one that suits you the best!)

The best guided visits of Gozo from Malta

My favourite: guided quad bike tours of Gozo!

These guided quad tours are so good, I’ve contacted the provider to offer you a promo code .

Only voyagetips readers are entitled to it, and it’s only available for the first 50 bookings made in 2024.

So don’t wait, and when you book, try entering the promo code “tips5” for an instant 5% discount! 😎

• Guided quad bike tour of Gozo   – With transport from Malta + lunch included!
• Guided quad tour of Gozo + sunset – Same as above, but with a later departure to enjoy the sunset. Available between May 15 and October 15.

If want to ride a quad bike in Gozo, but don’t want a guided tour, you can also rent a quad by clicking here. A GPS map is provided, so you’ll know exactly what to visit!

And if there’s no more availability for the guided tour and quad rental , you can see if the other provider who organizes guided tours of Gozo has any availability (click here)

Here are other great tours options, if you don’t want to drive:

• Guided tour of Gozo by bus
• Guided tour of Gozo by Jeep
• Guided tour of Gozo by private Jeep (your group only)

The discount code “tips5” is also available for the 2 tuktuk tours below , which are offered by the same provider as the quad bikes.

• Guided tour of Gozo by Tuktuk (an excellent option!)
• Guided tour of Gozo by Tuktuk + sunset – available from May 15 to October 15 only.

And last solution, you can take the Hop-on Hop-off tourist bus to visit Gozo.

You can find more details about all the best places to visit in Gozo in my article: The 10 best things to do in Gozo.

Comino is a tiny island located between Malta and Gozo island. Tiny in terms of size, but not in terms of reputation! That’s where the Blue Lagoon is, a stunning lagoon with turquoise water.

Every day, shuttle boats come and go from Malta/Gozo to Comino to bring tourists to swim in the lagoon.

Fore sure, unless you go off season, don’t go there if you’re looking for a peaceful and quiet beach!

As a lot of tourists are visiting Comino each day, I strongly recommend you to buy your boat tickets in advance.

There are several ways to go to Comino, simply click on the orange links to book the one that suits you the best.

1) Boat trip to the Blue Lagoon: the classic day trip to the Blue Lagoon, they can organize the transportation from most cities of Malta of you after booking for an extra fee.

2) Catamaran boat trip to the Blue Lagoon: same as above, but on a huge Catamaran! A great choice for a nice day at sea. Same as above, transport can be organized after booking.

3) Sailboat trip to the Blue Lagoon and other bays: want to discover more than just the Blue Lagoon? Choose this one! Snacks, wine and lunch + Free transportation from Malta included.

4) Private VIP boat trip to Comino and Gozo (3h): Organized by I Malta Boat Trips, it’s simply the best private boat tour to Comino and the Blue Lagoon. Josef, your skipper, will make sure you will have an amazing moment at sea.

During your boat trip, you will stop at the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon for a swim (snorkeling equipment included!) and visit Comino sea caves .

In addition to the half day boat trip, Josef also offers a full day boat tour (6h).

And you know the best?

It’s actually not much more expensive than the 3h boat trip , so if you have time to spend a full day at sea, you should opt for this one!

As Josef is doing only 1 boat trip per day, you should really book your full day private boat trip to Comino in advance by clicking on the button below:

5) Private boat trip to the Blue Lagoon from Valletta: You can also do a private boat trip to Comino Blue Lagoon from Valletta! It’s a great was to discover the capital and Malta’s coast line from the sea.

6) Private sailboat trip to Comino Blue Lagoon: Same as above, but on a sailboat with skipper! As it’s also a privat tour, you will decide of the day’s program. Enjoy!😎

And if you don’t want to do a boat trip, you can also take the boat shuttle from Marfa or Cirkewwa (in the North of Malta) to Comino.

7) Josef’s private boat trip to the Blue Lagoon can also start from Gozo.

You will have the choice between 2 boat trips (simply click on the links to book them)

• A 3h private boat trip to Comino Blue Lagoon and Gozo
• A full day pivate boat trip to Comino Blue Lagoon and Gozo (my reccomandation!)

8) Take the boat from Mgarr harbour.

9) Take the speed boat from Hondoq Ir Rummien (high season only). You will discover the magnificent Hondoq bay and its small beach. From there you can also enjoy amazing nautical activities! Book your ticket now here .

From Hondoq, in addition to the direct Comino transfer, you can also opt for a “Comino shuttle + Santa Maria caves” visit. It’s the perfect way to discover these beautiful sea caves and the coast of Comino!  

Besides the lagoon, you should also walk around the island, enjoy the beautiful landscape and the quieter areas of Comino. A nice thing to do is to go on top of Saint Mary’s Tower for a unique scenic view.

A quick tip: you can only go up the tower if the flag is raised. Entrance fee is donation based.

There is another beach on Comino island: Santa Maria Bay, with a hotel, restaurants and public bathroom. It’s a lot less crowded than the Blue Lagoon .

All the ways to go Comino I have just mentioned are detailed in my other article: How to visit Comino and the Blue Lagoon?

Comino island got its name from a plant found everywhere there during spring: cumin. Now you can amaze your guests at the next dinner party with this fact 😋

Quad bike is for sure a must-do activity during your trip to Malta !

You may not know it, but quad bike tours in fact take place on Gozo island .

I’ve already mentioned quad bikes above , but it really deserves its own section, so I can tell you all about it!

There is no previous quad biking experience needed, your instructor/guide will teach you the basics and will adapt to your driving pace.

• Quad bike rental in Gozo

The best way to enjoy a great day out on a quad bike during your stay in Malta is simply to rent one!

To do this, you’ll have to go to Gozo island on your own . It’s very simple – I’ve already explained how to do it above, and you’ll receive similar instructions once you’ve booked your quad.

You really need to book your quad as soon as possible , as there’s not much availability on the island, and the rental company gets fully booked very quickly!

To rent your quad bike in Gozo, simply click on the green button below:

• Quad bike tour from Malta

This day trip includes the transport from Malta as well as the lunch.

During your quad bike guided visit of Gozo, you will discover some of the best places to visit of the island such as Ramla bay , Dwejra (where the famous Azure Window used to stand), the Inland Sea , the Blue Hole or Marsalforn Salt Pans.

And you know the best? This day trip also includes the return from Gozo with a private boat! You will pass by the Blue Lagoon and Comino caves.

As I told you a bit before, you can use my discount code “tips5” to save 5% (50 uses maximum, so hurry up, there won’t be enough for everyone! 😅)

Your 1 day quad bike guided visit of Gozo from Malta needs to be booked here:

And if you prefer to enjoy the sunset in Gozo , you should rather book this version of the tour (click here to book) .

Available from May 15 to October 15 , it’s exactly the same as the tour mentioned above, just you start in the early afternoon and dinner is included!

You will find more info about the quad bike tours in Malta in my detailed article: Quad bikes in Malta/Gozo: the definitive guide.

Scuba divers will love Malta as it’s one of the best diving spot in the Mediterranean region.

Scuba diving in Malta is a unique experience, you will go on an underwater adventure and discover marine wildlife, wrecks and caves! On the plus side: water is warm and it’s always sunny (Malta has the most days of sunshine in Europe).

Prices are pretty affordable, the sites are beautiful and there are options for both beginners and experienced divers.

The best dive sites Malta:

• Blue Grotto and its diverse wildlife
• In Valletta , under Fort Saint Elmo, to see the wreck of the HMS Maori, a destroyer which sank in 1942
• The wreck of the Um El Faroud oil tanker
• The wreck of MV Rozi in Cirkewwa
• The blue hole in Gozo
• Santa Maria Caves in Comino

To try this amazing activity and do your try dive (first dive) in Malta , I have selected for you the best diving center of the island:

• All the diving instructors are very experienced (they have dived all around the world!)
• The diving equipment is new
• It’s a small diving center , not a “tourist factory”, and honestly, it changes everything! They only offer small groups diving, so you will be a maximum of 4 divers per instructor.

And you know the best? The price is very good! You can do your try dive in Malta for 69 euros per person only.

And at this price, you will have a real first dive (unlike with some other diving centers): you will spend 1 hour underwater and will be able to dive to a maximum depth of 12 meters (if you feel like it of course!)

Of course, as it’s a small diving center (friendly atmosphere guaranteed!), you will need to book your first dive as soon as possible: the places are very limited!

In order to book your dive in Malta at the best diving center and at the best price, you just need to call me at +356 7920 1451 (phone or WhatsApp).

The other best diving center in Malta is located on Gozo island. You can do your first dive there too, they are very friendly!

To book it, you just have to click the button below:

And if you’re motivated to learn diving, you can opt for a 4 days PADI Open Water course. You can book it by clicking here .

If you already have some diving experience and want to discover Gozo’s best diving sites, the 2 following options are the perfect choices you: “day – 2 dives” (click here) and “2 days – 4 dives” (click there) .

During your dives, you will discover amazing sites such as the famous “Blue Hole” or Mv Karwela ferry shipwreck with a professional instructor.

And if you want more info about diving in Malta, you can read my detailed article: Diving in Malta – The Definitive Guide .

If you’re looking for a VIP experience , you should opt for the VIP try dive, with a private instructor!

It’s similar to the adventure try dive (1 hour of diving / max depth of 12 meters – same diving center), but the instructor will only take care of you and your group (up to 4 people).

The VIP try dive is definitely a great choice if you want to be only with your family and friends , or want to offer a dive in Malta to your partner!

You should book your VIP diving experience in Malta now by calling me at +356 7920 1451 (Tel or WhatsApp).

From Valletta , you can easily reach the Three Cities . Go to Upper Barrakka Garden and take the panoramic elevator (Barrakka Lift) to go downstairs. Then, cross the street and continue to the left to reach the boat departure point.

Tickets are sold inside the boat. Round trip tickets are 2.80€ per person and it’s a 10min trip.

It will drop you off in the city of Birgu , the biggest of the 3 cities (the 2 others are Senglea and Cospicua ). They all have their unique features but they do have one thing in common; the views over Valletta . The best way to explore the 3 cities is just to wander around on foot!

• Birgu points of interest include Fort St. Angelo , the Inquisitor’s Palace and the Malta Maritime Museum
• In Senglea , go to the Safe Haven Gardens at the edge of the city; it has one of the best view over Valletta.

To visit the 3 Cities, you can also opt for a guided visit. The best one also includes a part about Maltese wine history and free wine tasting!

Keep your 3 Cities boat ticket!

The Barrakka Lift is always free when going down. However, you usually have to pay a small fee when going up, except in one case: when you come from the 3 Cities. So just show your boat ticket at the ticket office to get a free ride.

Mdina is the former capital of Malta . During the Middle-Ages (before the Order of Malta), the government and other administrations were located there.

It was called “Citta Notabile”, the noble city . When the Order arrived, knights decided that they needed to be close to their ships and Valletta became the new capital .

Also called “the Silent City”, Mdina is a fortified city loved by tourists for its charm and quiet streets. The city is home to many historical monuments:

• St. Paul’s Cathedral (the oldest cathedral in Malta) and its museum
• the 18th century Vilhena Palace
• other palaces on Villegaignon Street, such as the Palazzo Falson .

After exploring the city, you can go down to see the old moat which have been turned into a garden. From there you’ll be able to see the impressive ramparts from the bottom.

Voyage Tips Advice We went to Mdina early in the morning and it was a good idea! Starting from 10am, buses loaded with tourist started to flow in the city. Try to come before 9:30am if you want to avoid all the tourists.

To learn everything about Mdina history, a guided visit is your best option!

• Guided visit: Mdina on foot: Meeting point is at Mdina main gate
• Private guided visit: Mdina on foot: Same as above, but just for your group! The date and time of this private tour are flexible according to your preferences.
• Guided visit by night, “all included”: in addition to the visit to Mdina, this guided visit by night also includes “The Malta Experience”, a 5D show retracing the history of Malta in Valletta and a visit to the city of Mosta. Transportation from your hotel is also incluided.

Rabat is another place to visit during your holidays in Malta. It’s located right next to Mdina: once you exit the fortified city you are already in Rabat!

The best things to see in Rabat:

• St. Paul’s Church and Grotto, where Paul the Apostle sought refuge after their boat sank on the island
• St. Paul’s Catacombs, the city’s necropolis for 500 years
• Sy. Agatha’s Catacombs, where Saint Agatha hid during her exile from Sicily
• Domvs Romana , a Roman-era house turned into a museum.

Sliema and St Julian’s are the main touristic cities in Malta.

You’ll find there plenty of hotels, restaurants, clubs, casinos and shopping malls . They are perfect destinations if you like busy cities and to party. If you enjoy quiet places however, that might not be the best places for you to go.

In Sliema, you can enjoy a good meal in the numerous seafront restaurants offering unique views over Valletta .

There is also a nice promenade going from St Julian’s to Sliema and even Valletta along the sea . It’s probably the most crowded area of the island, especially during summer nights.

The best thing to do in Malta on a Sunday is, without a doubt, going to the fish market in Marsaxlokk .

Marsaxlokk is an authentic fishing port , with colored fishing boats called luzzu. Every Sunday takes place a traditional fish market. Don’t be fooled by the name though, you will find more things than just fish at that market, like souvenirs for example.

This market is huge and usually crowded , probably because souvenirs are cheaper there than in Valletta.

You’ll find many bars and restaurants along the port, perfect for lunch break. Most of them serve fish but you can also find pizzas and sandwiches. As always in Malta, the price is very decent.

Voyage Tips Advice If you’re coming to Marsaxlokk on market day by car , don’t get too close to the port: streets are very narrow and it’s virtually impossible to find parking. It’s better to park further away and walk a bit.

If you don’t have a car, y ou can also go on an organized day trip to Marsaxlokk . It includes transportation from your hotel, a guide and a visit to the Blue Grotto (If you want to go inside, you will need to purchase an additionnal boat trip to enter the cave)

You need to book this tour here:

Close to Marsaxlokk , St Peter’s Pool is another must-see attraction in Malta.

Dug by erosion, this natural pool is a great swimming spot.

Kids in particular love this beach, they challenge themselves to jump from the small cliff rather than actually swim. In fact, the only ways to get in the water is by jumping or using ladders.

Please also note that there is very limited shaded areas , so it might not be a good place to go with young children.

If you keep walking past St Peter’s Pool to the right , you’ll get to a flatter area with more natural pools carved into the rocks. Another great spot to take a dip.

St Peter’s Pool is 10min driving away from Marsaxlokk . It’s easy to find and there are 2 free parking lots .

• 7 days / 6 nights
• Optimized itinerary
• Created by Voyage Tips

• 8 days / 7 nights

• 10 days / 9 nights

Mosta is famous for its monumental church , whose design was inspired by the Pantheon of Rome .

It was built in 1833 thanks to funds raised by the residents, and is one of the most beautiful church in Malta.

It’s said that the dome is one of the biggest in Europe, whether it’s the 3rd or the 4th biggest dome is still a matter of debate. It’s so big that you can see it from many places on the island.

The church is also famous for what happened there in 1942: a German bomb was dropped over it, pierced the dome and fell in the church during the mass, without detonating. Some even says it was a miracle!

As i told you in the paragraph about Mdina, the visit to the monumental church of Mosta is included in this night tour of Malta.

Blue Grotto is located 2km away from Zurrieq town.

It got its name and reputation from the intense blue color of the water in the cave.

You can see it from above at a sightseeing location just outside the city. You can also go to the small Wied Iz Zurrieq port, 2min further away by car, and take a 30 min boat tour .

Remember to check the weather conditions beforehand , there won’t be any tour if the sea is too stormy.

Wied Iz Zurrieq also has bars and restaurants, as well as a spot to go swimming.

Voyage Tips Advice To get the best light, you should go to Blue Grotto in the morning: that’s when the sun shines into it.

North off Blue Grotto , the Dingli cliffs are worth stopping by.

Located 250m above sea level , Dingli is the highest point in Malta. It’s a nice place to walk around (be careful not to get to close to the cliff) and enjoy the views. Sunsets there are a photographer’s dream !

Voyage Tips - Advice If you don’t have a lot of time and want to discover the best of Malta in a day , you should opt for a private tour around the island!

There are 2 kinds of tours , and you can personnalize them in order to organize the excursion that suits you!

First, there is the Malta private guided tour. You can book it here:

The 2nd possibility is to do a private day trip around Malta with a driver , but without a guide (thus more affordable):

In both cases, the team in charge of the organization will help you to organize an unforgettable day!

The Red Tower , or Saint Agatha’s Tower is located in Marfa , 5min driving from Mellieha .

Built in 1649 among other towers between Valletta and Gozo , it was used to watch the coasts and protect merchants from pirates’ attacks. It could host up to fifty soldiers and had 5 cannons. It’s named after the color of its walls.

You can visit the Red Tower for 2€. It’s small, but the tour is worth it thanks to the amazing view from the top of the tower . From there, you can see the White Tower , Saint Mary’s Tower (on Comino island) and Lippija Tower.

Several megalithic temples can be found in Malta and Gozo, some of them even being UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They were all built between the 4th and 3th century BCE.

Here is a list of temples to visit:

• Tarxien temples located in the city of Tarxien
• Hagar Qim temples , next to the city of Qrendi, in South Malta
• Mnajdra temples, only 500m away from Hagar Qim
• Ggantija temples on Gozo island

If you plan to visit Malta’s Megalithic Temples and want to learn more about their history, you can opt for the guided visit!

It includes transportation from your hotel as well as the visit of 3 sites: Ghar Dalam Cave and its museum, Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples.

Here are the best activities to do in Malta

• Quad bike: you can find all the details just below, #14 of this guide
• Cross country Segway: the best Segway tours are on Gozo island
• Horse riding
• Hiking: I tell you more about it at the #21 of this guide
• Climbing: There are 300+ spots spread over 12 breathtaking sites on Gozo island

No Malta holidays can be complete without a good beach day ! Malta, Gozo or Comino islands all features some nice beaches and coves:

• Mellieha Bay: shallow water and wide stretch of sand, great for families
• Pretty Bay: a real kids’ paradise with its shallow water and playgrounds
• Paradise Bay: close to the Gozo ferry, it’s a nice beach but quite touristy
• Golden Bay: a vast beach, very touristy, lots of water sports options there
• Ghajn Tuffieha Bay: Go down the stairs to reach this very beautiful spot. Don’t miss the surprising rock formations on the left side of the beach
• Gejna Bay: a decent size sand beach, it’s especially nice to walk along the sea there
• Ramla Bay in Gozo, a vast beach with ocher sand, the ultimate family beach
• San Blas Bay in Gozo, a lovely sandy cove, though only reachable on foot. Going back will be your little workout of the day!
• Blue Lagoon and Santa Maria Bay in Comino, more details about it below.

If you enjoy swimming, you can go on a snorkeling session in Gozo with Sam during your stay.

He will show you one of the best spots of the island , hidden from the usual tourist spots!

He offers 2 snorkeling tours. You will need to book it by clicking here.

If it’s not available, you can opt for one of these 2 snorkelling tours that are also great:

• Snorkelling trip around Gozo of 2h30
• Snorkelling trip to the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon in Comino – Departure from North Malta

Malta is the perfect place to enjoy water sports and activities at reasonable prices.

To book, click on the orange links:

• Water Skiing
• Wakeboarding
• Parasailing
• Windsurfing course

Voyage Tips - Advice In my opinion, the best is to enjoy all these activities in Gozo. It’s where the scenery is the most beautiful!

A boat rental in Malta is a great way to discover the Maltese coast from another point of view!

The best is to rent it in Gozo (where the coast is the most beautifl!). You can then easily go explore around Gozo and Comino islands.

In Malta, the great thing is that you can rent a boat up to 90HP without boat license.

For those who have a boat licence, there are also boats with over 90HP.

To hire a boat in Gozo, you just need to call me at +356 7920 1451 (phone or WhatsApp).

To discover best secret spots of Malta , you should go hiking!

In the North of Malta , I recommend you the walk that starts from Selmun Palace (towards Mellieha) and goes down to several coves before going along the seafront to Mistra Bay.

In the south of Malta , you can also start from Delimara / St Peter’s Pool and walk along the coast to St Thomas Bay. The views of the cliffs are magnificent.

You may no know it, but Malta was the filming location for several key events of the Game of Thrones TV show!

So if you like this TV show, you should definitely book the Game of Thrones filming locations guided tour.

Your guides for the day will be Malcolm and his team: they all have been participating to the filming and will be able to tell you many anecdotes about your favorite show!

You can book it right here:

23. The best of Malta’s Nightlife

You’re going on a trip to Malta and you like to party?

Between the famous “Boat Parties” (I’ll tell you more about them below) and the great bars and clubs, you will for sure find great places to party in Malta.

As I want you to make the most of the Maltese nightlife, here is the list of the best bars and nightclubs on the island.

You want to have a drink? You should head there!

• The Thirsty Barber: to drink excellent cocktails to the sound of live music and in a great 1920s decor
• The Dubliner Irish Pub: for a relaxed atmosphere and beer lovers
• Hugo’s Terrace: you will find large bay windows with sea view and a good atmosphere in this bar located in Paceville. It also features a nice rooftop!

The most famous nightclubs of Malta are all located in Paceville, one of St Julian’s district.

• The Havana Club, one of the biggest Nightclubs in Malta. Free entrance!
• The Footloose, located close to the Havana
• The Bar Native a very popular place, you should go there if you enjoy latino music.

Another place I would recommend you is the Café del Mar. This outdoor club is located in Qawra, by the sea, close to Malta Aquarium.

During the day, you can rent a sunbed and enjoy the swimming pool, café and restaurant . In the evening, their pool parties are amazing!

Voyage Tips - Advice To discover the best of Malta’s nightlife with people from around the world who love to party, you should really do a Pub Crawl!

The best one is organized by Lucca, and you will see, you will have a crazy night!

You need to book it right here:

In Malta, you will have the opportunity to party on a boat at a “Boat Party”

The concept is simple:

You leave the port of Sliema at 7pm towards the north of the island for the sunset, then enjoy an open bar evening (whisky, vodka, rum, tequila, gin, beer and soft drinks) with 200 other party lovers from all over the world!

You need to book this epic party here:

The 3 best things to do in Malta with children

Are you visiting Malta with children and they’re getting tired of museums and city strolls? Here are 3 kids-friendly alternative activities:

Popeye Village is located in the North-Western part of Malta, close to Mellieha .

This village was entirely built to serve as a set for the movie “Popeye” , shot in 1980 with Robin Williams as the lead actor.

To built this gigantic set, trees were imported from Canada to build the houses, a road to the bay was created, along with a breakwater to protect the set. Once the shooting was over, they decided to keep everything intact.

Nowadays, it’s an amusement park. Kids will be able to discover characters from the movie and even act in a custom made one! The park also features boat rides, stores, trampolines and restaurants.

For more information about Popeye Village, you can visit the Official website .

While you’re on the island, why not show your children what’s around them by going to the Malta National Aquarium ?

Built in 2013, it’s located right next to Saint Paul’s Bay , in the city of Qawra .

The visit is great and very lively. You will discover all kind of sea animals from the Mediterranean and Malta region , as well as fish from the Pacific and Indian Oceans . The best part is probably the underwater tunnel with sharks and rays swimming above you. There is also an area with reptiles and amphibians.

More details are available on the Aquarium official website .

It’s a very unknown fact, but one of the first Playmobil manufacturing factory was actually in Malta , and it’s still running today.

The Playmobil Fun Park features a vast outdoor playground with Playmobil statutes , and an indoor area with all the Playmobil you can imagine to play with . Thousands of these tiny figurines are available for your kids.

You can also visit the factory and see the manufacturing process, but check the visiting hours beforehand because it’s fairly limited. The place is open to all children aged 5 years old and up.

There is also, of course, a Playmobile shop. If you’re a collector, the “Maltese Knight” Playmobil is only sold in this store!

For more information about tickets and how to get there, click here .

Where to stay in Malta: My best tips + Itineraries

When going to Malta, it’s essential to carefully choose your accommodation to avoid driving around too much.

I have made for you this simple guide of the best hotels in my favorite cities. You will see, it will be easy to find the best places to stay during your trip to Malta!

The list is specifically arranged so you can easily draft a nice itinerary from it . If you want detailed itineraries depending on the duration of your stay, you should have a look at my articles:

• Itinerary: 2-3 Days in Malta
• Itinerary: 4-5 Days in Malta
• Itinerary: 1 Week in Malta
• Itinerary: 10 Days in Malta

It’s always a good idea to start your trip by visiting Valletta, because the city is close to the airport. 1 or 2 days are enough to visit the city. That way you can also save money on you car rental by renting a car only after you’ve been in Valletta.

• Private Room : Located 300 metres away from Fort St Elmo and 700 meters from the Upper Barrakka gardens. Comfortable double room from 75€, breakfast included. Strong points: the excellent location, the hospitality and kindness of the host, the calm.
• Grand Harbour Hôtel : Hotel with traditional architecture, located in the heart of downtown Valletta, only 100 meters away from the Upper Barraka Gardens. Standard double room from 90€ per night or view sea + Three Cities view for 110€, breakfast included. Strong points: ideal location, magnificent view, roof terrace.
• Tano’s Boutique guesthouse : Hotel located in the center of Valletta, very close to all the best places to visit. Spacious and bright double room from 115€ per night. Strong points: the central location, the calm, the terrace on the roof for breakfast. The best value for money in town!
• Grand Hôtel Excelsior : 5* Hotel located on the waterfront, the view is stunning! Very nice rooms starting at 170€ per night. Strong points: The swimming pool, jacuzzi, free parking, the amazing breakfast and many other things that will make your stay in Valletta truly exceptional. My favourite place to stay in Valletta!
• Hôtel Phoenicia Malta : Luxury hotel located on City Gate square. Spacious, bright and tastefully decorated double room from 349€, breakfast at 17€. Strong points: the infinity pool with view on the port, the huge garden, the place and the free private parking. It’s simply the best hotel in Valletta, if you can afford it.

The city of Mellieha , located on top of a hill, is a great place to stay at when you’re visiting the Northern part of the island (Mdina, Rabat, Gneja beaches, Ghajn Tuffieha and Golden Bay, the Red Tower, Popeye Village, Comino etc.). It’s best to stay there for 2-3 nights to explore the region.

That’s also where the Ferry to Gozo island leave from , and it’s the next stage of our itinerary!

• Pergola Hotel & Spa : located in Mellieha with a view over the bay, the village, Gozo and Comino. Studio apartment with kitchen amenities starting from 80€/night, breakfast for an additional 8€. Best features: kitchen amenities, view, excellent service, 3 swimming pools.
• Maritim Antonine Hotel & spa : located in Mellieha, 1km away from a vast sand beach. Very spacious and elegent double room starting from 140€/night, breakfast included. Best features: rooftop swimming pool with a scenic view over the bay, heated pool and hot tubs, good buffet with many options, next to bus stops going to Valletta or to the beach. It’s the best value for money in Mellieha.
• Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands : located in Golden Bay and 2min walking distance to a lovely beach. Big double room with balcony (sea view or countryside view) starting from 150€/night, breakfast for an additional 20€. Best feature: direct access to the beach, view, delicious breakfast, during summertime you can get complimentary sun bed and umbrella on the beach.

Gozo island is rather small: getting a bed and breakfast in Victoria, Qala or Nadur is a good idea (especially if you don’t have a car). Avoid Xlendi and Marsalform: these half modern beach towns aren’t really nice. Gozo island is full of stunning spots, so I recommend you to stay for 2 or 3 nights .

• Bambina guesthouse : Guesthouse located in Xaghra, 10min walking from the beach. Modern with a zen vibe double room starting from 75€/night. Best features: amazing house with a swimming pool and a great view over Gozo, friendly staff, direct access to the beach, very good value. A great choice in Gozo for its excellent value for money.
• Casa Gemelli Boutique Guesthouse : Charming hotel located in Victoria, the capital of Gozo. Fully renovated double room starting from 90€/night, breakfast included. Decoration is a mix of modern and traditional. Best features: central location, close to all the bus stops, homemade breakfast, friendly and helpful staff.
• The Duke Boutique Hostel : Located in the center of Victoria. Very spacious and comfortable double room starting from 100€/night, breakfast included. Best features: location, great bedding, rooftop terrace view, great breakfast with many options, great staff, some rooms have a hot tub on the balcony.
• Kempiski Hôtel San Lawrenz : Luxury hotel located in San Lawrenz, close to Inland Sea ad Ta’Pinu Basilica. Spacious and modern double room with balcony starting from 130€/night. Breakfast for an additional 25€. Best features: amazing view, huge swimming pools, indoor pool, free parking lot, outstanding breakfast, nice spa. It’s simply the best hotel in Gozo .

And if you prefer to stay in an apartment during trip to Gozo, you should book at The Holiday Hub Gozo.

Located in a typical Maltese building, this modern fully equipped penthouse features 3 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms and can comfortably host up to 6 people.

It’s the perfect accommodation for a trip with your friends or your family!

It also features 2 large terraces (75m²), ideal to enjoy a breakfast outside or an aperitif.

Last but not least: you will also have access to the 150m² rooftop featuring a Jacuzzi (hot tub), plunge pool and BBQ.

A great way to relax after a good day of sightseeing!

Strong points: the calm, the perfect location to visit Gozo, the rooftop and its superb view + the really friendly owners.

Our favorite in Gozo, you should book it really in advance!

To book your stay at The Holiday Hub, simply click the button below:

Zurrieq is a great place for accommodation for two reasons; the city is close to the airport, and it’s a great starting point to go explore the South-West of Malta (Blue Grotto, Dingli cliffs, Marsaxlokk, St Peter’s pool etc.)

An ideal location to stay for 1-2 nights before flying back home !

• Luxury Room in the South Malta : Bed and Breakfast located in Zurrieq, 3km away from the airport. Big and modern double room starting from 60€/night. Best features: spacious room, very helpful owners, next to the airport et Blue Grotto.

Marsaxlokk is also a good place to end your trip before flying back:

• Port View Guesthouse : Guesthouse located in Marsaxlokk, a lovely fishermen village with a popular Sunday market. Modern and comfortable double room starting from 70€/night, breakfast included. Best features: next to the sea, good breakfast and excellent service.
• Harbour Lodge : Located right next to the fishing port. Quiet and comfortable double room starting from 85€/night, breakfast included. Best features: quiet location, free parking lot, free shuttle to the airport.

This tourist destination North of Valletta is perfect for you if you’re looking for brand hotels, bars, casinos and clubs.

Here are the best hotels there:

• Sliema Marina Hotel : ideally located on the waterfront, only a few meters away from the ferry to Valletta. Nicely decorated and spacious double room starting from 60€/night, breakfast for an additional 7€. Best features: great value, rooftop terrace, hot tub.
• Palazzo Violetta : located in Sliema, within walking distance of the beach. Studio apartment with kitchen amenities, modern, spacious and comfortable, starting from 100€/night, breakfast for an additional 10€. Best features: swimming pool, good location, comfortable rooms. My favorite for its amazing value for money!
• The Victoria Hotel : located in Sliema, 5min walking from the beachfront. Comfortable double room starting from 130€/night, breakfast included. Best features: rooftop swimming with sceniv view, very good breakfast, high quality restaurant for dinner.

Other activities to do in Malta

Are you up for more activities during your stay in Malta?

No problem: Here you will find the complete list, with many ideas that you will certainly enjoy. There is definitely something for you!

For more information about these activities and to book them, simply click on the following links:

It’s your first trip to Malta and you want to focus on the best activities and excursions?

In that case, I have selected for you the 4 activities and excursions you can’t miss during your trip to Malta.

So, here are my 4 favorites!

1) Going on a boat trip to Comino Blue Lagoon

• Catamaran boat trip to the Blue Lagoon (transport from Malta can be organized after booking)
• Sailboat “3 islands” day trip – Snacks, wine and lunch + Free transportation from Malta included
• Private VIP boat trip to Comino and Gozo full day (the best!) – Also available for a half day (3h).
• Full day VIP private boat trip with skipper from Valletta – Full day
• Full day VIP private sailboat trip with skipper from Valletta – The best way to make the most of your day at sea!

2) Visiting Gozo by Quad bike or Jeep

• Full day Quad bike tour in Gozo, with departure from Malta (transport included). Return by boat via Comino and the Blue Lagoon! Definitely one of the best activities in Malta!
• Renting quad bikes in  Gozo: To visit Gozo, you can also rent quad bikes! You can get the best quad bikes (brand new, 450cc) by clicking here and booking them directly on Quad Bikes Gozo website. The rental include helmets, free 2nd driver and a GPS map of Gozo’s best places to visit.
• Gozo: Jeep tour   – Pick up at your hotel in Malta included. A great way to discover Gozo if you don’t want to drive!

3) Diving in Malta and Gozo

• Try dive in Malta – at the best diving center. Just like for the quad bike rental , you just have to call or message me (WhatsApp) at +356 7920 1451 and I will take care of everything!
• First Dive in Gozo , one of the most beautiful dive sites in Europe. And if you already have diving experience, you can opt for the following packages:  “1 day – 2 dives” (click here)  and  “2 days – 4 dives” (click there) .

4) Jet-ski-tour around Comino (Blue Lagoon)

• Jet Ski Tour (From Malta or Gozo) – Follow your instructor on an epic 1h tour around Comino and discover the sea caves!

In addition to the 4 amazing activities mentioned above, here is the complete list, with all other activities you can do in Malta:

Boat trips to the Blue Lagoon

• Boat trip to Comino Blue Lagoon:   + transport from Malta can be organized after booking
• Catamaran boat trip to the Blue Lagoon + transport from Malta can be organized after booking
• Day trip to Comino Blue Lagoon + 3h to visit the island of Gozo
• 3h boat trip around Comino + 3h tour of Gozo by Jeep
• Shuttle boat to Comino

Visiting Gozo from Malta

• Quad bike day trip to Gozo,  with departure from Malta (transport included). Return by boat via Comino and the Blue Lagoon! Definitely one of the best activities in Malta! –  A half day tour is also possible – click here.
• Gozo: guided Bus Tour  – Pick up at your hotel in Malta
• Gozo: Jeep tour   – Pick up at your hotel in Malta
• Gozo: private Jeep tour   – Pick up at your hotel in Malta

Guided visits and excursions in Malta

• Guided tour of Valletta (small group) / Valletta Private guided tour / Historical tour: Valletta at the time of the Second World War
• Guided tour to the 3 Cities + wine tasting
• Vintage Bus Tour to the 3 Cities
• Guided tour of Mdina (small group) / Private guided tour of Mdina on foot
• All-inclusive night tour:  This night tour includes a visit to Mdina, a 5D show in Valletta about the history of Malta and a visit to the town of Mosta. Transport to and from your hotel is also included.
• Game of Thrones tour  – Malta is one of the filming location for the TV show.
• Day trip to Marsaxlokk and the Blue Grotto  – Transport + guide included!
• Half day guided tour to discover the megalithic temples of Malta,  some of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites
• Private 1 day guided tour of Malta.

Other activities to enjoy in Malta

• Try dive in Malta – at the best diving center. Just like for the quad bike rental, you just have to call or message me (WhatsApp) at +356 7920 1451 and I will take care of everything!
• Boat trip on a traditional Maltese boat in Valletta
• Malta Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Partying in Malta

If you want to take advantage of your stay in Malta to party (on your last evening or maybe even on several evenings during your stay !), you should:

• Go on a pub crawl and make friends from all other the world – Click here!
• Dance all night long in one of Paceville nightclubs
• Opt for a boat party with an open bar .
• Private 3,5 hour boat trip to Gozo and Comino
• Private VIP boat trip to Comino and Gozo full day (the best!)
• How to reach Comino by shuttle boat from Mgarr (Gozo harbour)
• How to reach Comino by shuttle boat from Hondoq
• Shuttle to Comino + visit to the sea caves.
• Visit of Gozo by jeep + lunch + boat trip of 3 hours to Comino

Other activities / Guided tours

• 2h or full day hike with a guide (Gozo),  to discover the hidden gems of Gozo, away from mass tourism.
• Quad bike guided tour of Gozo (full day) / Also available for a half day
• Tourist bus tour (Hop-on Hop-off) .

Nautical activities

• First Dive  at one of the most beautiful dive sites in Europe! And if you already have diving experience, you can opt for the following packages:  “1 day – 2 dives” (click here)  and  “2 days – 4 dives” (click there) .
• 1h guided Jet-Ski-Tour – Follow your instructor on an epic 1h tour around Comino and discover the sea caves!
• Subwing  – New in Gozo, super trendy!
• Snorkeling course
• Jet Ski rental
• SUP (Stand Up Paddle) 3h guided tour
• SUP 3h guided tour at sunset
• Paddling experience day + night   (amazing!)
• Boat rental: no license needed (up to 90 HP engine) – Reservation by phone or whatsapp at +356 7920 1451
• Boat rental: with license (more than 90 hp engine) –  Reservation by phone or whatsapp at +356 7920 1451

Below is the most complete tourist map of Malta . I recommend you to download it on your phone and keep it with you at all time. You can also get a paper version at the tourist information offices.

In this guide, I gave you all my best tips to plan your trip to Malta by yourself.

To make your life even easier, I am now offering you to book your trip to Malta in 1 click on “Autotour by Voyage Tips”!

No need to worry about organization: Hotels, car rental and activities , everything will be booked by our team of travel professionals who will create a personalized roadbook for you!

To book your tour to Malta and Gozo now, it’s very simple:

• Select the duration of your trip by clicking here or on the button below
• Select the hotel category of your choice on the tour page (budget, premium or luxury)
• Choose your other options and book your trip in 1 click!

You will see, organizing your trip has never been so easy 😎

So, what do you plan to visit during your trip to Malta?

Malta travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Malta guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Malta guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Malta : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Malta are listed there.

The 20 Best Things to Do in Malta : The ultimate bucket list!

• Comino Blue Lagoon: the definitive guide
• Gozo: The 10 must-see attractions of the island
• Valletta: The 10 best things to do
• Quad biking in Gozo (Malta): all my best tips to enjoy this activity
• Diving in Malta: the definitive guide – Try dive, exploration diving and PADI Open Water course
• Where to stay in Malta? – My guide to the best hotels for a perfect stay in Malta

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Discussion 13 comments.

Hi There are three of us ladies that want to come and explore during the day, relax at the beach and participate in some activities. We only coming through for 10 days (trying to push for 14 days).

22 September 2019 depart and arrive in Malta 23 September and depart again on the 4th October 2019.

We would like to have beach parties (if possible) and good nightlife for us older ladies in our late thirties and middle forties.

For the activities and places to visit, you can have a look at the 10 days itinerary i have written. It will give you a good idea of how you can organize your days!

You can find it here: How to spend 10 days in Malta

About the beaches, the best ones are:

Sandy beaches:

– Ghajn Tuffieha Bay – Gnejna Bay – Ramla Bay in Gozo – Santa Marijia beach in Comino

– Delimara BayBajia ta’ Mgiebah, near Mellieha – Hondoq Bay in Gozo – Blue Lagoon in Comino

For the night life, it’s all around St Julian, Paceville and Sliema.

In Malta, there are also boat parties, but not many beach parties i think.

Enjoy your trip!

This was so helpful!! I only had a short time in Malta and am a solo traveler, and the very specific descriptions for the 2 and 3-day tours were extremely helpful! Thank you for this page!

Thanks a lot for your kind message, I am very glad my 2-3 days itinerary in Malta helped you to plan your stay.

Have a great day, and maybe see you soon on the blog for another destination 🙂

Your detailed guide for Malta has helped me organize my 5 day trip to Malta so easily! Thank you!

I have only one question. We’re staying in Tal-Pieta and we’d like to scuba dive. Do you have any suggestions on how to book it? Should we book it online or can we find something when we arrive? We might not rent a car for more than a day so we might also need transport to the scuba diving sites.

Hello Stella,

I am glad my guide of Malta is helping you to plan your trip!

Unfortunately, I have no scuba diving school to recommend in Malta, as I did scuba diving in Gozo. The underwater is a lot nicer there in my opinion, so in case you want to do it in Gozo too, you should contact Franco from Blue Waters Dive cove: +356 795 368 74 For me, it’s the best diving center of the island! And if you are in Gozo, you can take the bus to get there, and they will then take you to the diving spot in Jeep.

Enjoy your trip to Malta!

Hi Vincent,

Your blog site has been a treasure trove full of information in planning my month in Sicily.

I’ve decided to add a side trip to Malta for 4-5 nights. I’m a bit challenged locating ferry website . I have read ferry accessible from Catania or Pozzallo( with additional bus transport, since turning in my car before depart) .

2 questions do I need any covid testing to go onto island, already vaccinated? Does the ferry only run on certain days ? I wanted to be back in Sicily by sat 18,of September for tues 21/9 departure to USA .

ThankYou again for all you do, Peace, JoAnn

Thanks again!

Here are the 2 websites for the ferries: – From Pozzallo: Virtu Ferries – From Augusta: Ponte Ferries You have the timetables, the fares and you can book online.

To come to Malta (at the moment), you need a PCR test or a valid vaccination certificate, and to fill in some documents. The only accepted vaccination certificates are: – Malta Vaccine Certificate – United Kingdom Vaccination Confirmation of Two Doses Received: NHS Vaccine Certificate (Digital app version or paper certificate) – EU Digital Covid Certificate (Vaccination Certificate – Two Doses Received).

So if you have been vaccinated in the US, Malta doesn’t yet accept this certificate and you will need to have a PCR test.

As everything is changing very often at the moment, the best thing to do is to look at this official website quite often: Malta Airport . Here are all the information you need to come to Malta. This is for arrivals by plane but it is exactly the same for the ferry. You also have all the links to the documents to be filled in before coming.

If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to ask me. Have a great day!

Very informative site My question is the USA CDC has Malta at a level 4 Do not visit right now 8/26/2021 What is happening in Malta ? Can tourist visit Are sites open ? Do you know of the USA CDC will lift the do not travel ban soon?

Thank you! I’m glad that my article about the best things to do in Malta is helping you to prepare your trip.

Malta is the first country in the world for the vaccination, with rate at over 90%. There are very few Covid cases per day. Tourists from the USA can come provided they have the United States CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card with an EMA-approved vaccine, verified digitally through the VeriFLY app. You can find the info here: Travelling to Malta .

In Malta, everything is open. You can visit all the places I am talking about and do all the activities (boat trip, diving etc…). You just have to wear the mask indoors.

No one can know when the US will lift the travel ban unfortunately (😅)

It’s unbelievable how great this article is! Many many thanks for it! It was so helpful and accurate!!

Kind regards.

THANK YOU!!

very nice article . Helped me a loot with organizing my trip!!

Huge thanksssssssssss 😉

Thanks Peter! I’m glad my article with the best things to do in Malta will help you prepare for your stay.

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Malta Travel Guide

Last Updated: June 6, 2024

While the country has seen a surge in tourism in the last few years (those British retirees were on to something!), it’s still pretty under the radar for most people.

Those folks are missing out. I loved my time in Malta . The tiny island nation boasts friendly people, ancient medieval towns and castles, warm weather, awesome food. and charismatic cities.

Owing to its unique position between Africa and Europe, Malta offers visitors an interesting cultural blend. As you explore, you increasingly notice the Italian, English, and North African elements in the food, language, culture, and architecture.

To top it all off, it’s relatively cheap compared to mainland Europe and the beaches and seafood here are excellent.

This travel guide to Malta will help you plan an epic and affordable trip there.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Malta

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Malta

1. Explore Valletta

For Europe’s smallest capital, Valletta packs a big punch: it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 300 monuments. There’s plenty to see here! Walk the fortifications, wander around St. John’s Co-Cathedral, visit the history museum and the National War Museum, admire the plethora of churches, and dine out on the historical waterfront. Don’t miss the catacombs that were turned into a secret military base during World War II and the Cold War. One of the best things to do though is to just to stroll the narrow roads and alleys and let yourself get lost. If you want to take a guided walking tour of Valletta , they last about 3 hours and cost 20 EUR.

2. Wander Mdina

Mdina is a fortified city and served as the original capital of the country. Like Valletta, it has a beautiful cathedral to visit and lots of old backstreets and passageways to explore. Be sure to visit the nearby catacombs and ancient Roman houses while you’re here. Don’t miss the Knights of Malta museum if you want a quirky and outdated experience (I don’t think this museum has been updated in decades but it’s fun). There’s also the Dungeons Museum where they have recreated scenes from Malta’s long history (note: some of the scenes depict episodes of torture and crucifixion). Admission is 5 EUR. To learn more about the city, take a walking tour of Mdina . They last two hours and cost 18 EUR.

3. Hike a coastal trail in Gozo

The coastal trails in Gozo offer a few different routes around the island for anyone looking for some exercise and stunning panoramic views. All of the walks combine getting back to nature with a bit of exploring history as they take you through some amazing flora and fauna as well as charming towns and villages. If you can only do one, hike from Marsalforn to the (sadly now gone) Azure Window. Keep your eyes peeled for all the traditional salt pans in Xwejni that have been used to harvest salt over the centuries. Other great hikes to check out are the Xlendi Tower, which takes you to an seaside tower that was built in 1650 and the Ras in-Newwiela trail that ends and a stunning stretch of white cliffs overlooking the sea.

4. See the Tarxien Temples

Located near Valletta, this complex is made up of 4 megalithic structures. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and dates back to 3150 BCE. The temples were used for rituals, which may have included animal sacrifices and cremations and some of the walls still have prehistoric artwork on them including bas-relief sculptures and friezes depicting animals and spirals. While mostly ruins and rubble, it’s one of the best ways to learn about the history of the island. Admission is 6 EUR and the Tarxien Temples App has audio guides you can use to navigate your way around. You can also splash out on a private archeology tour if you really want to learn more.

5. Relax on the beach

If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to schedule some time for the beaches. Golden Bay, Mellieha Bay, and Peter’s Pool are all great places to soak up some rays. The water in Malta is super clear and a brilliant turquoise. Paradise Bay and Armier, on the northern tip, also offer gorgeous views of the island of Gozo. If you have time to get there, the beaches in Gozo are beautiful and don’t get quite as busy as the main beaches in Malta. There’s not always much shade so take plenty of sunscreen and water (although most have at least one place you can buy drinks and snacks). Whichever beach you go to, be sure to arrive early so you can beat the crowds.

Other Things to See and Do in Malta

1. attend the carnival.

Malta has been throwing its own version of Carnival every February for over 500 years! Celebrations are held all around the island during the week leading up to Ash Wednesday, with parades, dancing, and costumes. Much of the population heads to Gozo for the weekend, so be sure to plan ahead as public transportation during that time can be a nightmare (more so than usual). Book your accommodation in advance because everything fills up!

2. Cruise around the island

If you want to get a different view of the island, take a ride around the coast. Tours usually stick to a certain region of the island and the more expensive trips include lunch. They cost from 20-30 EUR, last between 4-8 hours, stop off at a few beaches, and highlight some of the many shipwrecks around the country. Get Your Guide has a great full-day tour that covers all the highlights and gives you three hours of free time to explore on Gozo, if you want to go beyond the beaches.

3. Explore the Citadel

This fort was built by the British in Rabat/Victoria (this is the Rabat on the island of Gozo, not to be confused with Rabat on the main island of Malta). Known as the Cittadella or the Castello, it was built in the 16th century, though fortifications that have been found in this spot go back over 2,000 years (the area was settled in the Bronze Age). Inside, you can see the Cathedral of Gozo and the Bishop’s Palace, along with other historic buildings throughout the winding streets. Some of the damage you’ll see on the structures was actually from Napoleon’s troops in the 18th century, though a fair amount is due to the exposure to the elements. It’s free to enter and explore, with lots of little shops hidden down the alleys. For 5 EUR, you can check out the Visitors Center, the Nature Museum, the Gozo Archaeology Museum, Gran Castello Historic House, and the Old Prisons. The fort offers a great view of the city and surrounding area, making it a good place to come at sunset.

4. Go diving

Malta is surrounded by a plethora of shipwrecks that make for some great diving expeditions. The water in many places is incredibly clear so you have excellent visibility as you explore. Some of the most popular dive sites are the Um El Faroud oil tanker (it was sunk intentionally to act as a reef), the Double Arch cave in Gozo, and the Blue Hole (also in Gozo). You can also dive to see the fallen Azure Window (a famous rock formation that collapsed in 2017). A two-dive package starts around 90-120 EUR per person.

5. Hit the road

Most tourists who visit Malta never stray far from Valletta. If you want to really see the country, rent a car. There are lots of remote places to explore in Malta and a car gives you the freedom to do so. Considering the island is so small, you can just spend the day exploring the aging and battered towns that dot the island . You can find car rentals for as little as 20 EUR per day so it’s an affordable choice if you want to get away from the crowds and see the country beyond Valletta.

6. Relax in the Lower and Upper Barrakka Gardens

I love these gardens. Located in Valletta, on the southern side of the peninsula, they overlook the harbor and make a great place to watch the comings and goings of people and boats. They were created in 1661 as the private grounds for some of the knights that resided here. They were opened to the public in 1824 and are a relaxing nook of the city. Bring a book or a snack, grab a spot on a bench, and watch the world go by. The gardens are full of palm trees and there are different flowers and plants around based on the season. You’ll also see fountains and shaded spots to relax. Don’t miss the Siege Bell Memorial, which was built in 1992 to commemorate the 7,000 people who lost their lives during the Siege of Malta in World War II (the bells chime daily at noon).

7. Explore St. Paul’s Catacombs

Located near Mdina, these underground tunnels were used by the Romans as cemeteries up until the 4th century (and possibly as late as the 7th century). They were built in the 3rd century and are composed of over 30 different areas, 20 of which are open to the public. The entire network of underground passages covers 2,000 square meters. In one of the chambers, you’ll an ornate alter and the two large halls have pillars carved to look like columns. In the Middle Ages, the catacombs were used for religious worship, though they later just became storage areas until their re-discovery in the 1980s. They are an amazing thing to see. I loved them. Don’t miss them! Admission is 6 EUR.

8. Visit the Hypogeum

This is one of Malta’s most popular historical attractions. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Hypogeum was carved over 5,000 years ago and was an ancient temple/burial site in the Neolithic Age (over 7,000 bodies have been found here). It’s really cool and the displays provide lots of detailed descriptions and context. The halls, rooms, and passages were carved into three levels from the limestone under the city. In some of the chambers, you can see remaining frescos and other artwork carved into the rock. It is so popular during the summertime (and into the autumn) you need to book your tickets up to four weeks in advance. Admission is 35 EUR and includes a guided tour. It’s one of the best-preserved historical sites in the country and worth every penny. Don’t skip it! It’s just 15 minutes south of Valletta by car.

9. Visit the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is situated between Comino and Cominotto (i.e. between the main island and Gozo) and is the most iconic beach in the country because of its pristine white sand beach and turquoise water, which is some of the clearest in the world. It can get incredibly busy here on the weekend, so be sure to come early to stake out a good spot. There is a regular ferry service from Malta, however, if you want to visit from Gozo you need to take a private boat. It takes about 45 minutes to drive to the ferry from Valletta. Half-day catamaran trips to the Blue Lagoon costs from 25 EUR.

10. See the Marsaxlokk fish market

This market happens every Sunday morning. It’s a bit touristy and gets quite crowded but it’s the best place to buy fresh fish. You can find lots of other items such as fresh produce, honey, and other local goods here too. There are plenty of restaurants around (though you should expect to pay tourist prices here). Marsaxlokk is on the southern tip of the main island, about 25 minutes away from Valletta by car.

11. Explore Popeye Village

What started out as the film set for the quirky 1980 Popeye musical starring Robin Williams is now a large tourist attraction. You can explore the village, watch a documentary about its creation, and even play mini-golf. There are actors dressed as characters from the film walking around and interacting with visitors. This is a fun place to go if you’re traveling with kids. You can take boat rides, watch a silversmith demonstration, and bounce around on water trampolines. When the weather is warm, they offer boat rides around the area. Off-peak admission is 15 EUR while peak-season admission is 24 EUR.

12. See the Gozo Salt Pans

Lining the coast of Gozo, these salt pans have been in use for over 350 years. The traditional methods of harvesting salt have been passed down for generations, and even to this day you can find locals engaged in harvesting the crystals. There is salt for sale in shops all around the island (it’s a great souvenir to take home).

13. Visit the Three Cities

Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua trace their origins back to the Middle Ages and have been inhabited more or less since people arrived on the island. The Three Cities were also the original home of the Knights Hospitallers (a Catholic military order known as the Knights of Malta) and feature a lot of wonderful architecture and history. They aren’t as visited as other destinations on the island so it can be a good way to get away from the crowds. They’re just across the water from Valletta. Half-day tours of the Three Cities cost 36 EUR.

Malta Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostels outside the capital in St. Julian’s and Sliema cost 20-35 EUR per night for an 8-10-bed dorm. In Valletta, they cost around 60 EUR per night during shoulder season but can be double or triple during the summer months. Free Wi-Fi is standard, and a few hostels also offer free breakfast. If you want a private room, you’re better to book a budget hotel or Airbnb as you get more value for your money.

Budget hotels start at 65 EUR per night for a twin or double. In addition to basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, offer free airport shuttles or have pools. Some include free breakfast as well.

Airbnb is available all around the island and entire homes/apartments start in the 60-80 EUR range. Private rooms start at around 25 EUR. Most listings are around Valletta, Sliema and St Julian’s and in the south of Gozo. During the high summer months, expect prices to be about 50-100% higher, especially in July. If you’re visiting in the summer, book early.

Food – Malta has been conquered by many different countries over the centuries so it has a rather unique culinary history. Most of the food has strong Italian influences, though North Africa and Britain also play a culinary role. Rabbit stew ( stuffat tal-fenek ) is considered the national dish. Seafood is also common (it’s an island after all), with lampuki (mahi-mahi) being one of the main staples. Fish pie is a popular dish, as is kapunata , a Maltese version of ratatouille.

For food on the go, you can find pastizzi (a savory filled pastry) everywhere for less than 1 EUR. Fresh bread, cheese, and meats at the grocery store cost just a few euros if you want to make a simple lunch on the fly.

A meal of traditional cuisine at a restaurant or cafe costs around 15 EUR, while a multi-course meal at a mid-range restaurant with a drink and table service costs closer to 35 EUR. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 9.50 EUR for a combo meal (yes, there are McDonald’s here).

Beer costs around 4 EUR (half that if you buy it at a grocery store) while a bottle of water costs 1.50 EUR. A latte/cappuccino is around 2.50 EUR.

If you plan on cooking your own food, expect to spend between 30-50 EUR per week on groceries. This gets you basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal vegetables, and some meat or seafood.

Two of my favorite restaurants were Rising Sun and Suruchi.

Backpacking Malta Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 55 EUR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, use public transportation to get around, limit your drinking, and do free or cheap activities like hitting the beach or visiting a museum.

On a mid-range budget of 135 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, cook most meals and eat out occasionally at cheap fast food joints, enjoy a few drinks, rent a car to get around, and do more paid activities like boat tours or museum visits.

On a “luxury” budget of 245 EUR per day you can stay in a hotel, drink as much as you’d like, eat out anywhere you want, rent a car to get around, and do more activities like scuba diving and visiting Popeye Village. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

Malta Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Malta is one of the more affordable destinations in Europe but, during the summer months, it gets really expensive. To help you stick to your budget, here are some money-saving tips and tricks for visiting Malta:

• Visit during the off-season – Malta (or at least Valletta) gets crowded in the summer and prices tend to rise (cruises stop here). If you want to save money and have a less hectic visit, visit during the off-season.
• Cook your own meals – While restaurants aren’t overly expensive, eating out every day adds up. Try cooking your own meals to save some money. There are plenty of small shops and larger supermarkets (like Lidl) where you can grab basic staples for cheap.
• Avoid supermarket produce – A lot of produce at the supermarket is imported (and thus more expensive). Search out local vendors who sell their produce at the side of the road or at small stalls in town. It’s cheaper and fresher!
• Get the Malta Pass – This tourism card provides free entry to Malta’s top 40 attractions, making it worthwhile for anyone who plans on visiting a lot of sites. It also includes a free sightseeing bus (which is worth 20 EUR itself). You can get a 1-, 2-, or 3-day pass for 50 EUR, 80 EUR, or 100 EUR respectively. Buy it online before you go for the best price.
• Take a free walking tour – There are a few tour companies in Valletta, such as Colour My Travel , who offer free 1.5-hour walking tours. You get to explore the area and learn about the local culture, history, and architecture from a local expert. It’s a great introduction to Malta and definitely worth doing. Just be sure to tip!
• Redeem hotel points – You can sign up for a hotel credit card and use the points you earn toward accommodation when you travel. Most cards come with at least 1-2 free nights when you sign up, which can help you save a lot. Here’s a post that will help you get started with hotel credit cards . If you start earning points now, you’ll have plenty for your trip.
• Skip the taxis – Taxis in Malta are not cheap. Avoid them as much as possible. If you do need to use them, get the eCab app. It ensures you get a reputable and reliable taxi (they are good for short distances while taxis are likely cheaper for longer journeys).
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink (though it tastes a little off). Bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Malta

While hostels aren’t plentiful, you can find them around Valletta. There’s a lot of budget hotels too. Here are some of my recommended places to stay:

• Inhawi Hostel (St. Julian’s)
• Two Pillows Boutique Hostel (Sliema)
• Corner Hostel Sliema (Sliema)
• Tritoni Valletta Boutique Hotel
• Ddream Hotel

How to Get Around Malta

In addition to the public buses, there are also hop-on/hop-off buses that have different routes around the country. These routes cover all the major sites on both islands (Valletta, St. Julian’s, Popeye Village, the former Azure Window, etc.). A day pass for a single route starts at 25 EUR with Hello Malta or 28 EUR with City Sightseeing. I’d skip this and just use the public bus.

Ferry – The ferry to Gozo costs 4.65 EUR and takes 25 minutes. Be sure to arrive in advance as it fills up fast. The ferry from Malta to Italy takes less than 2 hours and costs 50-80 EUR (depending on the time of year) EUR for a one-way ticket to Sicily.

Bike – You can rent bikes for around 15 EUR per day, though I’d be extra careful cycling outside of Valletta. Drivers here are aggressive and the roads are quite narrow.

Taxi – Taxis start at 5 EUR and cost around 2 EUR per kilometer. There are no Uber or Lyft here but you can download the eCab app as an alternative. It’s usually cheaper than taxis for short distances. However, if you’re on a budget, it’s best to just avoid taking them.

Flying – Flights from Malta to and from mainland Europe can be found for as little as 45 EUR if you book early. Ryanair is the most budget-friendly airline that flies to Malta so they are your best choice if you’re on a budget. Flights to and from Morocco and North Africa can be found for as little as 55 EUR per person (again, if you book early and are flexible). There are no domestic flights around Malta.

Car rental – Car rentals cost between 20-25 EUR per day for a small car. Just keep in mind that the cheapest rentals are manual transmissions so you need to be able to drive stick if you want to get around. The drivers here are also very aggressive and tend to see the rules of the road as suggestions rather than laws. Renters need to be at least 21 years old.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Malta

The best time to visit Malta is from June to August. The weather is the warmest then, with daily temperatures around 31°C (88°F). Not surprisingly, this is also the busiest time of the year so expect crowds and higher prices.

In August, as in much of Europe, many locals leave for their own summer holidays. A lot of shops and restaurants close, which can crowd the remaining places even more. But the weather is perfect and most tourist attractions stay open. If you choose to visit during the busy summer months, the Mediterranean Food Festival happens in August. This event features cuisines from around the world with cooking competitions, talks about sustainability, and displays by local artists. In late July and early August, you can also check out the Farsons Beer Festival, which is a totally free to enter. There’s plenty of live music, food, and beer.

The shoulder months of April-May and September-October offer a nice compromise of decent weather and fewer crowds. Expect temperatures around 25°C (77°F). Carnival is a major spring even and has been celebrated in Malta for more than 500 years. During the week leading up to Ash Wednesday (about seven weeks before Easter), there are masquerade competitions, parades, parties, and masked balls. In late April and early may there’s the Malta Fireworks Festival. There are incredible fireworks displays and competitions that happen over the course of these two to three weeks. In the fall, the island of Gozo puts on the Festival Mediterranea. This is a celebration of the arts that have been a part of Gozo’s culture for more than 7,000 years. There are operas, symphonies, poetry readings, and so much more.

The winter in Malta is chilly, with temperatures dropping to 10-15°C (48-60° F) — sometimes colder. Aside from attractions closing for Christmas, everything is open though some bus schedules change to reflect the lower number of visitors in the country. In short, it’s a perfect time to visit as long as you aren’t looking to hit the beach and don’t mind some windy sweater weather.

How to Stay Safe in Malta

Malta consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world. Crime is rare, though it’s always a good idea to keep your wits about you. Petty theft can still occur so always keep your valuables tucked away and be mindful of your things while on crowded public transportation or while swimming at the beach.

When swimming, make sure you only swim in areas where there are other swimmers around. Riptides are common so it’s best to avoid secluded beaches unless you can be sure that it’s safe. Never swim when the sea is rough and never swim alone.

Drivers in Malta are on the aggressive side so take extra precautions when crossing roads, cycling, or renting a car. When taking a taxi, always wear your seatbelt.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard safety precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). There are a lot of helpful solo female travel blogs on the web that can give you specific tips and information about a place that I can’t.

If you’re out hiking in the spring or autumn, be aware that it is hunting season (just for small birds).

If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Scams here are very rare here but you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Malta Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Malta Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Malta travel and continue planning your trip:

How to Visit Malta on a Budget

Malta: The Country of Half-Neglected Buildings

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17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Malta

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated May 11, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

In the Mediterranean Sea south of Sicily, the Maltese Islands (Malta, Gozo, and Comino) have a fascinating heritage. Being close to Tunisia, there is a distinct North African influence. The Maltese language is derived from Arabic mixed with Italian.

The country is also fiercely proud of the legendary Knights of Malta, who fought off the Turks and launched the Crusades.

Under the scorching sunshine, Malta's palm-tree-fringed landscape is dotted with beautiful places to visit, including picturesque hilltop towns, peaceful seaports, and colorful fishing villages.

Packed with cultural attractions, the capital city of Valletta is an ideal base to explore the Island of Malta. As a traveler, you will appreciate Valletta's array of hotels, restaurants, historical sites, and cultural events.

Across the harbor, Sliema has less culture but more entertainment options and caters to 20-something travelers and students on school breaks. The Island of Gozo is the best choice for relaxing beach vacations.

Malta's weather is perfect in spring and autumn. During the hot summer months, villages come to life with religious festivals and outdoor concerts.

Plan your visit to these enchanting islands with our list of the top things to do and tourist attractions in Malta.

1. Valletta: Malta's Elegant Capital

2. the idyllic island of gozo, 3. the medieval hilltop town of mdina, island of malta, 4. historical attractions in rabat, island of malta, 5. ħal saflieni hypogeum, island of malta: a neolithic cult site, 6. prehistoric tarxien temples, island of malta, 7. blue lagoon, island of comino: nature's perfect swimming pool, 8. the blue grotto, island of malta, 9. breathtaking views at dingli cliffs, island of malta, 10. golden bay beach, island of malta, 11. ghajn tuffieha bay and gnejna bay beaches, island of malta, 12. the seaside charm of mellieha, island of malta, 13. ħaġar qim temples, island of malta: a prehistoric megalithic site, 14. mnajdra temples of the maltese bronze age, island of malta, 15. siggiewi, island of malta: a traditional maltese village, 16. the country village of zebbug, island of malta, 17. family fun times at popeye village, island of malta, map of tourist attractions in malta.

Valletta is the elegant capital of the Republic of Malta. The entire city is testimony to the grandeur of the Knights of Malta, the European noblemen who were granted the Maltese Islands by the King of Spain in 1530.

The Knights created a capital worthy of their aristocratic stature, on par with other great European capitals. Valletta's regular grid plan and orderly public squares reveal the Knights' logical 16th-century urban planning.

You can easily navigate this small city that is bounded by two harbors: the Grand Harbor and Marsamxett Harbor. It takes less than an hour to walk across the entire city.

The heart of the city is St. John's Co-Cathedral , a 16th-century church built by the different Orders of the Knights, hailing from various countries such as France, Spain, and Italy. The moment you step into this magnificent sanctuary, you are awestruck by the lavish interior with its opulent gilded decor.

Nearby is the immense Grandmaster's Palace , once the residence of the Knights of Malta. This palace boasts splendid paintings, as well as an armory, that tell the story of the Knights' military victories.

If you appreciate culture and historic monuments, Valletta is one of the best places to visit on the Maltese Islands. Malta's most modernized city, Valletta is packed with tourist attractions and is a convenient base for exploring the Island of Malta without a car. The island has an efficient bus system with Valletta as its hub.

The Island of Gozo is the most idyllic destination of the Maltese Islands. With its quiet towns and pristine beaches , this little island is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing vacation for several days or even a weeklong stay.

Although Gozo is less developed than Malta, the island has plenty of cultural attractions: a fortified medieval city, Victoria ; a bustling seaside resort, Marsalforn ; and the most important archaeological site of the Maltese Islands, Ġgantija Temples , dating back to around 3500 BCE.

The countryside of Gozo offers a delightful retreat from the modern world. A patchwork of small farms covers the island's valleys and rolling hills. Traditional villages perch above the landscape, while the hillsides lead down to protected beaches and quaint old fishing ports. Even the tiniest towns have grandiose Baroque churches.

A favorite beach is at Ramla Bay with a wide, sandy shore and gentle waters that are safe for swimming. This well-equipped beach welcomes visitors with excellent facilities: lounge chair and umbrella rentals, showers, restrooms, changing areas, and snack bars.

The Island of Gozo is a short ferry ride from Cirkewwa on the Island of Malta.

Step back in time and experience the allure of a walled medieval town. You must pass through the dramatic Main Gate to enter Mdina. Within the city's immense, ancient ramparts is a delightful world of car-free streets and beautiful, old sandstone buildings.

The entire town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , brimming with historic monuments and cultural attractions such as its glorious Baroque cathedral, the 17th-century Carmelite Priory, and several old aristocratic palaces.

The Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum (Villegaignon Street) offers the chance to see an authentic medieval palace, decorated in the original style. The Palazzo Falson also displays exquisite art, antiques, and Oriental carpets, as well as a collection of ancient coins.

The Palazzo Vilhena (Saint Publius Square) is a stately 18th-century Magisterial Palace that now houses Malta's National Museum of Natural History .

Just outside the Mdina ramparts is the neighboring town of Rabat. You can see both cities in the same day; Mdina and Rabat are sometimes considered to be one unified urban area.

In Maltese, the word "Rabat" means "suburb." Rabat is less touristy and more modern than Mdina, but there are noteworthy historical attractions.

One of the hidden gems is the Casa Bernard , a grand 16th-century house that is still a private residence but is open to the public for guided tours. The house is decorated with antique furniture, masterpieces of painting, and noteworthy objets d'art.

The Domvs Romana provides a glimpse of everyday life during the ancient Roman era, with exhibits about fashion, entertainment, and cuisine. The museum stands on the ruins of a Roman aristocratic townhouse and contains some of the finest 1st-century BCE Roman mosaics in the world.

The 17th-century Parish Church of St. Paul's stands above St. Paul's Grotto , where it is said that Saint Paul found refuge during his stay in Malta. Next to the church, the Wignacourt Museum displays ancient Roman artifacts and paintings by Mattia Preti as well as other European artists.

Dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries, St. Dominic's Convent is an important pilgrimage destination because it contains a marble statue of the Virgin Mary that is considered miraculous. The convent's courtyard garden was used in the filming of Game of Thrones .

The massive dimensions and sheer mystery of Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum takes your breath away. This Neolithic-era underground cemetery is designated on the UNESCO World Heritage List because of its cultural value.

Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum has provided archaeologists and scholars with intriguing clues about the Neolithic mindset and culture. The complex stands as a rare testimony to a vanished civilization.

Visiting this site offers a beguiling experience. On a guided tour, you enter the site at ground level. Then, you will walk through underground passages and stairways to descend down into three levels of superimposed chambers. The lowest two levels are man-made caves, entirely carved out of limestone rock.

Natural light reaches the middle level of the complex, but not the lowest level. Archaeologists speculate that Neolithic-era people used some form of artificial illumination such as torches.

The lowest level is the chamber known as the " Holy of Holies ," which is over 10 meters below the entrance to the first level at the top. Using your imagination, you might try to envision how this chamber was used by prehistoric man to perform burial rituals and ceremonies.

The site is remarkable for how old it is (4000 BCE to 1500 BCE) and for the excellent state of preservation, complete with beautiful sculpted details and paintings in red ochre. It is also fascinating the way structural elements of Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum mirror the architecture of contemporaneous (prehistoric-era) megalithic sites such as the Tarxien Temples.

Some of the artifacts found in Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum are now displayed at the National Museum of Archeology in Valletta, including clay sculptures; stone figures of birds; and The Sleeping Lady , a rare prehistoric object that depicts a woman lying on a couch.

Tip for Tourists : Book ahead! The site is open to the public for 50-minute guided tours. It is recommended to reserve your Hypogeum tickets online in advance for a specific day and time. For reasons of conservation, Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum has a limit of 10 visitors every hour.

Address: Burial Street, Paola, Island of Malta

The UNESCO-listed Tarxien Temples is the largest and best-preserved prehistoric cult site in Malta, consisting of four megalithic structures. Excavated in 1914, the site covers an area of 5,400 square meters and displays the artistic achievements of Malta's mysterious prehistoric culture during the " Temple Period " (Late Neolithic Period) between 3,600 BCE and 2,500 BCE.

Stone reliefs and sculptures that were found here are represented on the site by excellent reproductions; the originals are displayed in the National Museum of Archeology in Valletta.

The stone walls of the four adjoining temples are decorated with surprisingly intricate spiral patterns and animal figures. The decorative South Temple contains the largest collection of art, including reliefs that depict goats, pigs, bulls, and a ram.

You will also find the remnant of a statue depicting a fertility goddess with robust legs, small dainty feet, and a pleated skirt. (Unfortunately, the top portion of the statue was missing when it was uncovered by archaeologists.)

The East Temple is made of sturdy slab walls with recognizable oracle holes. The Central Temple features a six-apse architectural plan and has an arched roof that reveals technically advanced construction techniques.

Tip for Tourists : The Tarxien Temples archaeological site is within easy walking distance of Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum . Both sites could easily be visited on the same day.

Address: Neolithic Temples Street, Tarxien, Island of Malta

The Blue Lagoon is a mesmerizing scene of crystal-clear turquoise waters lapping over a white-sand seabed. This expansive lagoon gives the impression of being a giant swimming pool because the water is temperate, there are no waves, and the shallow end is safe enough for children.

Wonderful for swimming, splashing around, or floating on inflatable tubes, the core of the lagoon is roped off to boats. The lagoon is equivalent in length to several Olympic-size swimming pools. Good swimmers can cross to the cove on the other side.

The lagoon has a small beach with umbrellas and lounge chairs available for rent. The other option is sunbathing on the scorching-hot rocky hillside. At least, you can count on refreshment stands set up around the lagoon.

Things to do on Comino Island include nature walks, hiking, and water sports such as snorkeling and scuba diving.

Tips for Tourists : During high season, this beach is often crowded by 10:30am, so it is best to arrive early. The lagoon is less crowded after 4pm, however the returning ferries stop running around 5pm.

The ferry ride from Mgarr on the island of Gozo takes about 15 minutes to arrive at the Blue Lagoon on the Island of Comino. From the Island of Malta (departing from the port of Marfa or Cirkewwa), the ferry ride to the Blue Lagoon takes about 30 minutes.

The breathtaking coastal vistas on the approach to the Blue Grotto provide an exciting introduction to this spectacular nature site. You arrive here by taking a scenic route along a winding cliffside road high above the Mediterranean Sea.

The scenery has a serene, mesmerizing quality with brilliant blue waters sparkling in limestone caves. It explains why according to mythology, the Blue Grotto was home to the sirens (sea nymphs), who captivated sailors with their charms.

You can take a guided boat tour in one of the brightly painted Maltese fishing boats called luzzus . Boats leave frequently year-round, when the sea is calm. The 20-minute joyride speeds through the sea past six caves, including the Blue Grotto, a 30-meter-high cave with a luminous pool of cobalt-hued waters.

Tip for Tourists: The best time to visit is early in the day, ideally before 2pm, when the sunlight best illuminates the water.

The village of Wied iz-Zurrieq (just one kilometer away from the Blue Grotto) has many souvenir stores, ice-cream shops, and cafés, as well as cliffside restaurants with marvelous views. You will enjoy a meal at one of the restaurant terraces overlooking the gorgeous expanse of azure sea.

The Blue Grotto is also a popular scuba diving destination because of its bountiful marine life.

For awe-inspiring coastal scenery, take a short drive or bus ride from the Blue Grotto in Wied iz-Zurrieq to the Dingli Cliffs. The appeal (and the drawback) of this location is its remoteness.

The sheer 250-meter Dingli Cliffs plunge dramatically into the Mediterranean Sea, and the sloping hillsides are fertile land used by small farms.

The highlight of Dingli Cliffs is the viewpoint that offers stunning seaside panoramas.

Besides a short walking trail, there is nothing at Dingli Cliffs except a tiny hilltop chapel (closed to the public), which is devoted to Saint Mary Magdalene.

Tips for Tourists : Keep in mind that there are no restrooms or cafés. Sometimes you might find a pop-up souvenir and refreshment stand. Dingli Cliffs does not have a visible bus stop (ask the bus driver where to get out), and buses run infrequently, but the sensational photo-ops make it worth the trek.

Golden Bay in Northwest Malta is one of the island's prettiest beaches. This picturesque and well-maintained beach features sheltered sandy shores tucked away behind a mountainous coastline and sloping cliffs.

The beach has an extremely wide shoreline with soft golden sands. The clean, calm waters are safe for swimming. You could spend the day here sunbathing, while listening to the soothing sound of waves lapping against the shore.

Lounge chairs and beach umbrellas are available for rent, and the site has well-maintained facilities including public toilets and changing rooms. There are also cafés and restaurants with terraces overlooking the shoreline.

The beach is found next to a luxurious five-star hotel, the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands , which has three restaurants, a café, snack bar, swimming pool, and fitness center.

Unlike other beaches in Malta, Golden Bay Beach is far away from street traffic, which makes it a perfect get-away-from-it-all seaside escape. At the same time, Golden Bay Beach is easily accessible by car or bus; the bus stop is only a five-minute walk away from the beach.

If you are exploring the area by car, it's worth driving two kilometers from Golden Bay to the unspoiled beach at Ghajn Tuffieha Bay. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and sloping hillsides. You get here by climbing down 200 steps.

Ghajn Tuffieha Bay Beach feels secluded in nature, except for the umbrellas and lounge chairs for rent, public restrooms, and a snack bar. Considered one of Malta's top beaches, Ghajn Tuffieha is favored by locals who appreciate the quiet, peaceful environment. The waters are safe for swimming except when the red flag is up (indicating strong currents).

Continuing seven more kilometers from Ghajn Tuffieha Bay is Gnejna Bay , a small protected bay surrounded by steep limestone cliffs. You must hike down a flight of steep steps to reach the gorgeous orange-sand beach, which is popular with swimmers and snorkelers. Water ski and canoe rentals are also available, as well as public restrooms and food stands.

Between Ghajn Tuffieha Bay and Gnejna Bay is the rural village of Mgarr in a bucolic landscape of vine-covered hills and small farms. Outdoorsy types will enjoy the scenic hiking trails from Mgarr into the countryside and along the coast to Gnejna Bay.

Nearby are ruins of Roman baths and ancient cart ruts (grooves in the limestone plateau), which intrigue scholars and visitors alike.

Mellieha is a family-friendly seaside destination in the scenic countryside of Northwest Malta. The beach is next to a busy road, which detracts from the natural beauty. However, the Mellieha Beach has the largest stretch of sandy shore on the Maltese Islands with a one-and-a-half kilometer shoreline of fine white sand.

Mellieha Bay has very gentle shelving, which makes it shallow enough to stand even quite far away from the shore. The calm waters with no undercurrents are safe for children to wade or swim.

The picturesque village of Mellieha stands on a craggy hilltop overlooking the pastoral landscape of rocky outcrops, vine-covered hills, and small farms.

At the highest point in the village, the lovely 19th-century Baroque Parish Church of Our Lady of Victory (Parish Square) contains the Shipwreck of Saint Paul painting by renowned artist Giuseppe Cali and a statue of the Virgin Mary.

The church's Virgin Mary statue is venerated during the annual Mellieha Village Festa . This nine-day festival begins on August 30th and features snack kiosks, traditional Maltese desserts, marching bands and fireworks.

Opposite the steps that lead down from the Parish Square is a mystical cave-shrine dedicated to the Madonna. An underground spring running through the cave is said to have miraculous healing powers.

Mellieha also has a protected habitat for migrating birds in the Ghadira Nature Reserve .

The UNESCO-listed Ħaġar Qim Temples appeal to travelers who are fascinated by Malta's megalithic sites. Perched on a rocky hilltop plateau, this archaeological park on Malta's rugged southern coast overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and the Island of Filfla in the distance.

Dating between 3600 BCE to 3200 BCE, the ancient site was buried under mounds of earth until its discovery in 1839. The facade, made up of two upright stones supporting one stone lintel, has a striking entrance.

The builders of these remarkable prehistoric temples did not use a symmetrical layout of the three chambers. Instead, the chambers and apses connect with one another but not in a uniform plan. Each temple was built as an individual place of worship.

The largest megalith of this 5,000-year-old site is more than seven meters long and weighs approximately 20 tons. The little boulders, the size of bowling balls, strewn about the site were used like castors to move the massive megaliths into place.

Artifacts found on the site, including the Fat deities, believed to be symbols of fertility, and the nude Venus of Malta , are on display at the National Museum of Archeology in Valletta.

Address: Triq Hagar Qim, Qrendi QRD 2501

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site , the Mnajdra Temples are found 500 meters away from the Ħaġar Qim Temples in an isolated stretch with stunning sea views. This archaeological complex includes three different structures.

The oldest structure, the South Temple, dates to around 3600 to 3200 BCE. The other two temples were built between 3150 BCE and 2500 BCE. These three structures represent a significant stage in prehistoric human development known as the Ġg antija Phase (circa 3000 BCE to 2200 BCE), which was an important period of the Maltese Bronze Age.

The most intriguing feature of Mnajdra Temples is the doorway of the South Temple. The doorway is flanked by two immense blocks with small holes that mark the position of the rising sun on the Equinoxes (first day of spring and autumn) and the Solstices (the first day of summer and winter).

Address: Triq Hagar Qim, Qrendi QRD 2502

This traditional Maltese village is in southwestern Malta between Rabat and Marsaxlokk in the fertile Girgenti Valley , which begins near the Dingli Cliffs .

At the center of the village, the Parish Church of Saint Nicholas features an impressive Baroque facade created by Lorenzo Gafà in 1693. The church is usually closed except during the annual festival.

The Siggiewi Festa (Feast Days), honoring Saint Nicholas, is held at the end of June. The church is illuminated with multicolored lights, and its relics are paraded around the town. The four-day festival includes fireworks, brass band music, and authentic Maltese treats (such as pastry stuffed with dates and nougat made with almonds or peanuts).

From May through October, Siggiewi hosts the Maltese Summer Folklore Nights at the Limestone Heritage Park and Gardens. This lively event showcases Maltese culture with folkloric dance and music performances, as well as a buffet featuring delicious Maltese dishes. The Limestone Heritage Park and Gardens is also a popular venue for outdoor weddings.

This country village has a history dating back to 1436. The Grand Master de Rohan elevated Zebbug to a city, renaming it Citta Rohan, and built the triumphal arch at the entrance of the town.

The main square is graced by the twin-towered Baroque Parish Church of Saint Philip with an ornately decorated interior. The initial design was created by Cassars, the architect of Saint-John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta.

Zebbug celebrates its annual religious festival, the Festa of Saint Philip , at the Parish Church in June. The celebrations include marching band processions, fireworks, and colorful decorations. A highlight of the festival is when the silver statue of Saint Philip is paraded through the village.

For families with young kids, the Popeye Village in Mellieha offers an entertaining place to spend the day. This charming tourist attraction was originally a film set for the 1980s movie Popeye starring Robin Williams and has become one of the top tourist attractions of Malta.

The film set is a quaint seaside village made of 20 wooden structures. You are greeted by Popeye the sailor and then can take a tour of the village to find the post office, bakery, firehouse, and other buildings. Popeye Village also has a beach, sunbathing decks, and a souvenir shop.

The village celebrates holidays, such as Carnival, Easter, and Halloween, with festive decorations and amusing activities.

Address: Popeye Village, Anchor Bay, Triq Tal-Prajjet, Mellieha, Malta

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Home » Travel Guides » 15 Best Places to Visit in Malta

15 Best Places to Visit in Malta

This small archipelago has so much variety you won’t believe how they manage to squeeze it all in. So many cultures have been mixing and influencing each other for generations that you’ll be hard pressed to pigeon-hole anything here. For example, Maltese food is a combination of Middle Eastern and Sicilian.  Another thing that mixes well here is modern life with the prehistoric.

All the modern amenities you could ask for, plus everywhere you look there are tiny pockets where you’ll think you’ve gone back in time.

Though the most famous asset is the gorgeous deep blue sea.  Come for the red-gold beaches, limestone cliffs, sheltered bays, and every imaginable sailing vessel and forget about everything else. Here’s the best places to visit in Malta !

1. Valletta

Valletta is the capital of Malta thanks to the famous defeat of the Ottoman Turks during the Great Siege of 1565.  Built on a peninsula in the eastern part of the country, with a population around 6000, the entire town is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It sits on top of Mount Sceberras and has wonderful examples of baroque architecture dating from the 16th century.

The stand out of these is St. John’s Cathedral and other auberges’ and bastions all built by the Knights of St. John. Valletta is the largest harbour town in Malta and from The Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens you’ll get incredible views of the Grand Harbour.

If you’ve got the opportunity, the Maltese Carnival, which lasts three days, is phenomenal.

Just 5k from Valletta, Sliema is the Maltese hub for delicious food and fantastic shopping. It’s the main resort destination now, though it was once the playground of the country’s aristocracy. You’ll find a lot of expats here, as well as a large number of Maltese.

There are a lot of options for boat trips around the Grand Harbour and Sliema serves as the starting point for hop on/off sightseeing buses that cover the entire island. In town, be sure to check out the Independence Garden and the De Redin tower (17th century).

As you might expect from a resort town, the nightlife has a lot of energy and you’ll likely find yourself with too much that you want to do.

3. St. Julians

For those that want a little punch in the nightlife scene, St. Julians is the place.  Known for its ability to entertain, this resort town is thriving with late night fun. St. Julians includes Portomaso, Spinola Bay, St. George’s Bay, and Paceville – which is where most of the action is.

For beach bums, the large flat rocks that line the coast make a perfect sunbathing bed and the seafront promenade offers a great place for a long walk.

Malta’s tallest building, Portomaso Tower, is here, as is the Love Monument and Spinola Palace (17th century). Come in August for the traditional summer festa, or come any time for unbelievable dancing, dining, and fine wine.

On a peninsula between Salina Bay and St. Paul’s Bay sits Qawra (Our-ra). Thanks to the peninsula, the town has three seafronts and with so much access, it’s quickly becoming a hub for tourists seeking water sports.

It’s also close to St. Julians, so if you want to experience great nightlife, but escape to a more quiet and relaxed home base, Qawra is a great option. The promenade will take you all the way to St. Paul’s and provide stunning views all along the 3k walk.

Don’t miss the parish church, dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi, and the Malta Classic Car Museum.

Just off the coast of Malta is the small island of Gozo.  Most tourists come for the day and enjoy sites like the Temples of Ggantija, Inland Sea, The Citadel, and the Azure Window.

Gozo is a mainly farming and fishing community, and most people enjoy the villages of Xlendi and Marsalforn. There’s been very little development here so an afternoon roaming the island will give you a nice feeling for a more traditional Malta.

Most arrive by ferry, but for some excitement, try the seaplane.

Head inland, to the “Silent City” of Mdina to experience medieval Malta.  Built on a large hill in the centre of the country, the town has few inhabitants and no cars can enter.

Combine this with amazing views of the entire island and you’ll quickly see the magic of Mdina. It’s a good place to relax as you stroll through the narrow alleys. Though it is small, there is plenty to do.

Take in the Carmelite Church and Priory, the Natural History Museum, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Magisterial Palace, and the Palazzo Falzon.

7. Birgu (Vittoriosa)

On the south side of the Grand Harbour is Birgu, one of the older cities in Malta.  Because of its location, it’s been of military significance for centuries.  The town even played an important role in the Siege of Malta. At one point, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Phoenicians, Normans, Arabs, and Aragonese all control the city and influenced its history and culture.

The main entrance to the city is the love Couvre Porte and the entire place is surrounded by fortified walls. Inside you’ll find monuments and ancient history at every turn.

Before leaving, explore the Inquisitor’s Palace (now a museum), The Parish Church, Notre Dame Gate, and the Malta Maritime Museum.

Dwejra is on the west coast and centuries of work by the sea have made it one of the most astounding places in Malta.  There are two underground caverns which have collapsed to form two circular depressions – current day Inland Sea and Dwerja Bay.

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you’ll recognize this place immediately from the shows first season. The Inland Sea is a lagoon with steep cliffs on all sides and a 100m tunnel leading to it.  Fishermen find their best catches from here and on the side they shuttle tourists back and forth through the tunnel.

Dwerja and the surrounding areas are Malta’s most popular diving and snorkelling spots.

Home of the famous Blue Lagoon, Comino is a small island much loved by surfers, divers, and those wanting a day trip get away from their cares.

The island is car free and virtually uninhabited. It’s got white sand beaches and an intensely blue sea making everything about Comino inviting and luxurious feeling.  You can swim over to the islet of Cominotto and when you’re finished rent an umbrella and a deck chair for a nice long nap in the sun.

It does get busy in the summer, so consider a winter visit to maximize your pleasure.

• 10.  Mellieha

This is Malta’s largest beach and takes its name from the Arabic word for salt. Another popular tourist spot, Mellieha is picturesque and a favourite among the Maltese. Wonderful seaside hotels and fantastic restaurants add to the hospitality that permeates the place.

In September you can take part in the Village Feast, known as “Il-Viorja,” which includes fireworks, concerts, folk singing, more great food, and many religious processions honouring Our Lady of Victories.

While visiting, be sure to explore Ghadira Natural Reserve, Ghadira Bay, Armier Bay, St. Agatha’s Tower, and Popeye’s Village where the 1980 film Popeye was filmed.

11. Marsaxlokk

In southern Malta you’ll find Marsaxlokk, a fishing village known for the Sunday fish market and the many colourful Luzzus – decorated “eyed” painted boats. The history here traces back to the 9th century and was used by Phoenicians and later the Turkish fleet during The Great Siege.

On the Tas-Silg hill, archaeologists have even found Bronze Age tools. Though industry is a major part of life in Marsaxlokk (the nation’s main power station is here).  The mouth-watering seafood and green water make it worth a visit.

There is a lovely beach leading to the gorgeous St. Peter’s Pool and cliff diving here is an amazing experience.

12. Victoria (Rabat)

The capital of Goza is Victoria (or Rabat) which includes both the old city and the Citadel which sits on top of the hill.  Because of its location, The Citadel serves as the heart of the island and is sometimes called the “Crown of Gozo.”

Independence Square (18th century) was once the government centre and is now home to a lively open-air market with cafes serving pastizzi and tons of fun souvenirs. The Grand Basilica is located in perhaps the oldest part of town and you’ll love walking around this area. Be sure to check out the local delicacies as you go.

And don’t leave before checking out The Folklore Museum, the Old Prison, Villa Rundle, and Gozo Cathedral.

13. Hagar Qim

The best preserved and staggering of all the prehistoric sites in Malta are the standing stones known as Hagar Qim and Mnajdra. Sitting right at the top of the sea cliff, the atmosphere here is awe-inspiring.  Hagar Qim is the first temple and has been restored so that you have a better sense of what it originally looked liked.

Next to it is the 20 tonne megalith. This is the location of where the famous Venus de Malta, or “fat lady,” figurine was found.  She’s now on display at the National Museum in Valletta. Mnajdra is a series of three elaborate temples which date back to 3000 BC.

There’s a great visitors centre here which will reveal all the secrets and mysteries of these ancient temples and afterwards, take a hike along the cliffs to Ghar Lapsi.

14. The Hypogeum

Discovered in 1902, The Hypogeum is a mysterious underground necropolis. The passages and chambers have been cut out of the rock and cover over 500 square metres.

Since it was built, sometime between 3000 and 3600 BC, some 7000 people were buried here. This incredible structure was carved by hand.  The site was shut for a decade as the government worked to restore and protect it, using UNESCO funds, from carbon dioxide damage from tourists.

Now it is structurally safe with a controlled micro-climate.  Because the number of tourists is limited to ten per tour, pre-booking is essential.

15. National Museum of Archaeology

Located in the Auberge de Provence, in Valletta, the museum has an unbelievable range of artefacts all the way back to the Neolithic period and Phoenician period.  There is so much ancient history in Malta and here, you’ll get a great introduction and context to most of sites you’ll visit as you travel the country.

You can see the Venus of Malta, the Sleeping Lady from Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, bronze daggers from the Tarxien Temples, and the Horus and Anubis pendant from the Phoenician period.

And not only will you learn about the artistry and daily lives of the first island dwellers, but the museum itself is architecturally one of the most elaborate Baroque buildings in the capital.

15 Best Places to Visit in Malta:

• St. Julians
• Birgu (Vittoriosa)
• Victoria (Rabat)
• The Hypogeum
• National Museum of Archaeology

The Best Things to Do in Malta

Malta may be one of the smallest countries in the world, but it certainly doesn't lack in things to do. The three-island archipelago is located a little over 100 mile south of Sicily in the Mediterranean and includes the islands of Malta, Gozo, and Comino. For such a small area, though, there are a surprising number of historic sites -ranging from megalithic temples said to date back to the 4th millennium B.C. to medieval fortresses and walled cities-and are a major draw for visitors. But activities in Malta are not limited to visiting relics of the past. The Mediterranean nation has natural wonders to explore (both above and below water), festivals to attend, and nightlife to partake in.

From rock climbing and swimming in the Mediterranean to wandering the ancient ruins of various centuries, here are some of the best things to do in Malta.

For getting to know Malta's history and ancient past

1. spend a day exploring the city of valletta and its landmarks.

• Where : Valletta

Given Malta's strategic location and succession of rulers-from the Romans, Normans, and Sicilians to the Spanish, Knights of St. John, French, and British-it's somewhat surprising to find Valletta so well-preserved. The capital city dates back to the 16th century and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1980. When it was recognized as the European Capital of Culture in 2018, several historic landmarks, such as the city gate at the entrance to Valletta, underwent extensive restoration. When visiting save a day for wandering the city to see such landmarks as:

Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel : At nearly 138 feet high, the dome of the Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel looms large on the city skyline. Although the church itself dates back to 1570, it was badly damaged during World War II and only reopened in its current form in 1981 after 23 years of rebuilding.

St. John's Co-Cathedral : The church is named a co-cathedral because the bishop of Malta also sits at St. Paul's Cathedral in Mdina. One of the world's must-visit churches, it features a glittering gold interior that represents the pinnacle of high baroque architecture, plus eight chapels dedicated to the eight branches of the Knights of Malta. History buffs will want to explore the crypt, while art lovers will appreciate the ceiling frescoes by Mattia Preti. Tickets include entrance to the attached museum.

2. Visit the National Museum of Archaeology

Housed in the baroque Auberge de Provence, the National Museum of Archaeology features a collection dating as far back as 5200 B.C., during the Neolithic period. Through such objects as delicate stone tools and Phoenician amulets, it provides a solid introduction to Malta's prehistoric history and adds context to many of the historical sites around the island. It's a perfect starting point for a tour of Valletta, and the small museum is easily be explored in an hour.

3. Upper Barrakka Gardens

One of Valletta's most scenic spots, the Upper Barrakka Gardens has memorable views of the Grand Harbour, the fortified cities of Senglea and Birgu across the harbor, and the shipyards below. Every day at noon, members of the Malta Heritage Society dress in British military uniforms and fire a ceremonial gun [cannon] salute. Visitors can stroll by beautiful fountains, and there is plenty of manicured green space for picnics. Take an elevator which connects the gardens to the Valletta waterfront, or perhaps ride the elevator at dusk to watch the sun setting over the city's rooftops and the Mediterranean.

History buffs won't want to miss the Lascaris War Rooms, a collection of tunnels and chambers 150 feet beneath the Upper Barrakka Gardens, that served as the secret headquarters for Allied operations during World War II. Commanders stationed here oversaw some of the most ambitious campaigns in the Mediterranean, including the 1943 invasion of Sicily. After the war, the War Rooms were used by the Mediterranean fleet of the Royal Navy.

4. Go back in time in the medieval town of Mdina

• Where : Mdina

Plan to spend at least an afternoon wandering the streets of the walled city of Mdina (also known as the Silent City), which was founded in the 8th century A.D. and served as the nation's capital until medieval times. These days fewer than 100 people live in Mdina, though the walled city remains a popular tourist attraction. After your visit, make a stop at Coogi's Restaurant & Tea Garden for lunch or a quick drink while enjoying views of the surrounding farms on the other side of the city's walls.

Game of Thrones fans will be interested to know that Mdina was one of many filming locations for the series.

5. Tour St. Paul's Catacombs

• Where : Rabat

Located on the outskirts of Mdina in Rabat, St. Paul's Catacombs are an homage to Paul the apostle. Paul and 274 others were shipwrecked just off Malta around 60 A.D. on their way to Rome . Legend has it that the survivors took refuge in a grotto, above which a church and monument were later built in the apostle's honor. The Catacombs, which represent the earliest evidence of Christianity in Malta, are a labyrinthine set of underground cemeteries. Covering an area of over 21,000 square feet, the catacombs twist and turn with dozens of hypogea (chambers) once used for burials.

6. Explore the Cittadella

• Where : Victoria, Gozo

The site of the Cittadella on the island of Gozo is thought to have been inhabited since Neolithic time and more certainly by the Bronze Age. The land was used by the Romans for a settlement. The Cittadella is a fortified citadel, which overlooks Gozo's current capital of Victoria.

A walk through the striking limestone structure is a must when visiting Gozo. While wandering the grounds, notice the holy shrines under the Norman-style arches and the doors adorned with a coat of arms. Up on the ramparts, you'll find a 360-degree view of Gozo's hills, valleys, and villages, with the Mediterranean in the distance. There are also various on-site churches and museums to visit, such as the cave-like Gunpowder Magazine, where gunpowder was stored in the late 17th and 18th centuries.

Other nearby historic sites worth a stop in Gozo include the ornate St. George's Basilica , which tops the hill at the heart of Victoria and the baroque Cathedral of the Assumption, enclosed within the walls of the Cittadella.

7. The Ggantija Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Where : Gozo

The Ggantija Temples , named after the Maltese word for "giant," are the oldest and most impressive of the megalithic temples in the Maltese islands. Built during the Neolithic period from coralline limestone, the ruins are more than 5,500 years old, predating Stonehenge-and even the pyramids of Egypt. This UNESCO World Heritage site was recently restored; it is visitor friendly with walkways and a new center featuring displays of prehistoric artifacts from across Gozo.

For experiencing Malta's more current culture, food, and nightlife

8. shop for gifts and snacks on and near merchants street.

Stalls at the busy Merchants Street Market, which is open every morning of the week, sell traditional Maltese crafts alongside bargain clothing, jewelry, and other gifts. Right off Merchants Street is the Is-Suq Tal-Belt Valletta Food Market, an indoor collection of food stalls ideal for sampling Maltese food . Swing by Lot 61 Coffee Roasters across the street from the food market for a cup of some of the best brew in the city.

9. Watch live music at Bridge Bar or Cafe Society

Valletta by day may be all about sightseeing and jostling with crowds of day-trippers from docked cruise ships, but nighttime in the capital city is an entirely different experience. On warm nights in particular, the nightlife spills out from the city's bars and restaurants onto the streets. On these evenings, join the locals lounging on city steps and enjoy a drink and live music at establishments like Bridge Bar or Cafe Society .

10. Attend a festival

• Where : Nationwide

It's easy to time a visit to Malta with a festival, thanks to a diverse calendar of events . For a more traditional cultural experience, time your trip for " festa season "-a series of extended weekends that runs from the end of May to September-when towns and villages throughout Malta celebrate the feast of their respective patron saints with papier-mâché statues, Maltese delicacies, and fireworks.

However, some of the more standout events worth planning a trip around include Birgu Fest and Notte Bianca , both annual festivals that take place in October. Birgu Fest is a festival in which the entire old city of Vittoriosa, also known as Birgu, turns off all of its lights and illuminates the city's ancient walls and cobblestone streets by candlelight. Notte Bianca, also a nighttime festival, takes place in Valletta but is more focused on music and partying than the romance of candlelight. If you happen to visit in February, grab a costume and head to Nadur, Gozo, for its macabre Carnival celebrations .

For getting out to see Malta's natural beauty

11. take a boat tour to the blue grotto or blue lagoon.

• Where : Qrendi (Malta) or Comino

No trip to Malta would be complete without an excursion on the Mediterranean, and one of the most enjoyable ways to experience it is with a boat tour. If you're short on time, take a taxi or drive to the coastal town of Qrendi, where you can hop on a quick 30-minute boat tour to the Blue Grotto, an oceanside cave.

If you have at least a day to spare, it's worthwhile to sign up for a longer boat tour to see the Blue Lagoon, located on the uninhabited island of Comino, which is the archipelago's smallest. There are both day and half-day trips to the Blue Lagoon and Comino departing from either Valletta or Gozo.

12. Walk along the Xwejni Salt Pans on Gozo

• Where : Qbajjar Bay, Gozo

On the northern coast of Gozo, visitors can get a fascinating introduction to one of the island's most important traditions: sea salt production. Just past Qbajjar Bay is a nearly two-mile stretch of 350-year-old salt pans, which remain a vital source of income for Gozitans to this day. In the summer, locals scrape up salt crystals, and store them in nearby caves for later use. Several Gozitan businesses package the salt in gift jars, which are available for purchase in many of the island's souvenir stores.

13. Take a scenic drive on Gozo

Gozo is mostly an agrarian island, so you won't find any big cities here. Instead, focus on exploring the outdoors, and in particular the seaside cliffs and rock formations, scattered about the island. The most famous is the Azure Window, a rock archway that collapsed in 2017 . Even so, visitors still flock to the location to see its remnants. Equally stunning, though less well-known, are Wied il-Għasri a beautiful sea canyon you can hike to and swim in and Wied Il-Mielaħ a (still-standing) natural rock arch perched above the sea, both of which are on the north coast of Gozo.

14. Go for a swim in the Mediterranean

• Where : Various

You won't find many white, sandy beaches on Malta or its two smaller islands, but that doesn't mean there aren't any great areas for swimming and beach days-quite the opposite. Grab a beach blanket or towel and spread out on the rocks at Paradise Bay, Wied Iż-Żurrieq, or St. Peter's Pool in Malta. If you're on Gozo, head to Xlendi.

If you go to St. Peter's Pool, end your day with a seafood meal in Marsaxlokk at casual eatery Skuna or the slightly more upscale restaurant Tartarun . On Sundays, the town has its weekly fish market. Though often touted as a great tourist attraction in Malta, it's okay to skip unless you're buying fish to cook later.

15. Rock climb its coastal cliffs

Malta's seaside cliffs may not always be great for lounging, but they are excellent for rock climbing. If you'd like to try your hand at this adventurous sport, sign up for a tour with Gozo Adventures in Gozo or MC Adventure in Malta. The guides with both tour companies are very experienced and friendly, and have options suitable for all levels-from total newbies to experienced outdoor climbers.

Sara Lieberman contributed to the reporting of this story.

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How to spend a day in Valletta, Malta's baroque, harbourside city

Plan the perfect day in the Maltese capital, from breakfast pastries to a waterfront dinner.

Built by the Knights of St John in the 16th century, Valletta retains much of its time-worn charm, with narrow streets leading between honey-coloured buildings, and glimpses of the Mediterranean never far from view. It’s a small place – just 0.3 square miles – so all of its attractions are within easy walking distance. Here’s how to make the most of it.

8am: Breakfast at Caffe Cordina

Opened in 1837, this elegant cafe in the heart of the city centre not only serves up traditional Maltese pastizzi   (savoury pastries stuffed with ricotta or peas and beef) and round qassatat   pies, often filled with peas, but also a sublime atmosphere. Expect marbled floors, gold-lined ceilings and elegant chandeliers to backdrop your coffee and cake consumption. If you’re chomping at the bit to get exploring, they also sell some treats to take away.

10am: Explore Casa Rocca Piccola

If you visit one museum in Valletta, make it this 16th-century palace — the family home of the ninth Marquis de Piro. A glorious timewarp showcasing artistic treasures both Maltese-made and imported, the series of treasure-cluttered rooms contain everything from a portable altar hidden in a bureau to possibly the last surviving set of medical instruments from the Knights of St John. There are underground tunnels used for shelter during Second World War bombings, too. Tours run every hour and last about 45 minutes.

11am: Water taxi to the Three Cities

Get a prime view of Valletta’s skyline and a nautical adventure at the same time by hopping aboard a dgħajsa   (traditional water taxi) to the historic towns known as the Three Cities, just across the Grand Harbour. Trips departing from water level below the Upper Barrakka Gardens cost just a few euros per person and only take around 15 minutes each way. Alternatively, ask your skipper to give you a personalised boat tour of the harbour.

1pm: Lunch at Café Jubilee

Filled with quirky art pieces — including vintage posters and inverted milk jugs repurposed into pendant lights — this homely family-owned restaurant in the historic core of Valletta specialises in the cuisine of Malta’s neighbouring island, Gozo. Tuck into dishes such as sheep’s cheese ravioli with tomato and basil sauce, rabbit stew with orange, spices and red wine, and baked marrow stuffed with beef. Wash everything down with the local Cisk lager or Maltese craft beers such as Blue Lagoon Witbier.

3pm: Tour the Teatru Manoel

Opened in 1732 by António Manoel de Vilhena, a Grand Master of the Knights of St John, Teatru Manoel is a spectacular example of a surviving baroque theatre. Twice-daily tours, which run at 11am and 3pm on weekdays, cost €5 (£4) and will take you from the stalls up into the wooden boxes where the people-watching opportunities are often as thrilling as what’s shown on stage.

4pm: Valletta Design Cluster

Set on a quiet side street in a building that was once used as a slaughterhouse, the Valletta Design Cluster doesn’t look like much from the outside — but step into the lobby and take the lift to the top floor, and you’ll be welcomed by a verdant surprise. The leafy rooftop garden with seating, tables and a pond provides an elevated perspective of the surrounding city rooftops, and is the perfect outdoor place to sit and relax for an hour among trees, shrubs and fragrant lavender blooms.

5pm: Aperitifs at Kamy Cocktail Bar

Wander around Valletta’s historic centre in the waning light, then pop into this popular cocktail bar. Mixologist Iliyan Iliev combines creative flavours with artistic prowess; try the clarified negroni. Paintings and photographs line the walls and each cocktail comes topped with a recognisable (and drinkable) masterpiece floating on its surface — for example, Munch’s The Scream or Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus.

8pm: Dinner at The Harbour Club

On the south Valletta waterfront facing out to Fort St Angelo and the Three Cities, this elegant dining favourite in an 18th-century building provides impressive views over the Grand Harbour. The menu is inspired by the streets of Valletta, with dishes like Strait Street, starring local pork loin with celeriac and pork gratin, and Old Theatre Street, featuring crab tart and marie rose sauce. Rather unusually in meat-loving Malta, there’s also a seven-course vegan tasting menu.

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Best places to travel in Europe

Like every year, this ranking is based on your choice. Over 1 million travellers from 172 countries were consulted to vote for their   Best Destinations in Europe ,  the best city breaks in Europe, but also the best nature getaways in Europe, the most beautiful sunny holidays in Europe, the best cultural and gastronomic holidays, whether travelling as a couple, with family or alone, to discover the beauties and riches of Europe.

Discover the 20 most voted destinations  (out of over 500 destinations) awarded the title of "Best European Destinations 2024".

Need more inspiration? Discover the Most Beautiful Islands in Greece , Most Incredible Castles in Germany , Best Secret Destinations in Italy , Best Places to visit in Turkey,   Most Beautiful Beaches in Croatia  and much more…

Choose from this selection of the  Best European Destinations 2024 ,  book your flights ,  accommodation ,  tours and activities  and discover the very  best of Europe .

1. Marbella, Spain

Marbella is the most beautiful, sunniest, and exclusive of European destinations but also part of the best Golf Destinations in Europe and one of the best destinations for gourmets or shopping addicts.  Marbella is the preferred 5-star destination for travellers in 2024 .

Wherever golfers choose to play, they will enjoy top-class golf courses, many of them with panoramic views of mountains and the Mediterranean, in addition to being able to savour post-round drinks or a meal in well-appointed clubhouses.

Take a gastronomic tour of this food-loving Andalusian city that can cater to any craving – and delivers views and vibes to boot.

With three Michelin-starred restaurants serving excellent cuisine, plus hundreds of smaller eateries dishing up everything from Mediterranean and Thai to paella and succulent local tapas, luscious food is a major part of Marbella’s allure. Moreover, with more than 300 guaranteed days of sunshine per year, al fresco dining by the beach or beneath the stars is practically guaranteed.

Marbella has everything it needs to please any most demanding traveller. Once you get a taste of the gentle way of life in Marbella, you already know that you will come back.

Don't waste time and book your flights to Malaga Airport (30 min by car), your transfer , your accommodation in Marbella as well as your activities and tours such as a " Sunset Sail in Marbella with Drinks & Snacks ".

  Best for:  5 star holidays, Golf, Wellness, Beach, Farniente, Shopping, Foodies, Outdoor Activities, Nature, Romantic Getaway, Families.

  Nearest airports:   Book your flights to  Malaga Airport and your transfer (30 min).

  Where to stay:   " Boho Club Marbella " this is our favourite 5 star hotel in Marbella, a dream place.

Staying in Monaco means choosing an exceptional destination where everyone can enjoy unique and memorable experiences .

This country on a human scale reflects the perfect marriage between glamour, culture and relaxation. Renowned for its security, it will surprise you with its multiple facets and the richness of its history.

Gastronomic delights, cultural and sporting events, exceptional nightlife, shopping experiences, pampering spas… The most eclectic dreams come true are on these two square kilometres. Small in size, the possible inspirations in this territory are no less numerous.

For a romantic stay, a family trip or a getaway with friends , the diversity of the hotel offering will meet all your expectations combining comfort, refinement and excellence of service.

Explore Monaco-Ville, where the green of the gardens blends wonderfully with the blue of the Mediterranean . With its breathtaking panoramas, its Oceanographic Museum and its Prince's Palace, this district dominates Port Hercule where it is pleasant to stroll among the fishing boats and prestigious yachts, in the heart of the Principality.

Head to Place d’Armes: Riviera colours and flavours are guaranteed! Take time and taste local specialties such as barbagiuàn, socca or pissaladière.

Enter the legend and discover the legendary Place du Casino where the Café de Paris, a true institution of the Principality, and the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, an iconic palace with world renown, are located. Like in a dream…

A few steps away, the Larvotto seaside complex reveals its beach , its shaded promenade, its shops and its restaurants where to relax in summer and winter with your feet in the sand.

To gain a little height, the Tête de Chien promontory stands on a terrace above the Big Blue. From there the silhouettes of the French and Italian coasts are revealed: three countries in one look . It is also the ideal place to have the Principality at your feet. A place where we give nature hope for a carbon-free future , a place where we reconcile with the sea and its species by offering them unique development conditions in the world.

Enjoy the enchanting Monegasque setting in all circumstances. Monaco makes any experience unique. So unique that no one can claim to have experienced it anywhere else. The Principality of Monaco is undoubtedly like nowhere else .

  Best for:  Safety, Foodies, Culture, Shopping, Nightlife, Wellness, Sports events, Sustainable tourism, Romantic getaway, Family.

  Nearest airport:   Book your flights    to Nice  and your transfer.

  Where to stay:  The “ Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo ” palace features an American-style piano bar and 2 Michelin star restaurants with views of the famous Place du Casino.

The “ Columbus Monte-Carlo ” boutique hotel features a bar, a restaurant with terrace, a fitness room and access to an outdoor swimming pool.

This year explore more   wonders . Malta, Gozo and Comino offer stretches of countryside and stunning coastlines that are

just waiting to be explored!

Explore more beauties ! Wherever you go in Malta , the scenery and architecture provide a spectacular backdrop. The colours a striking honey-coloured stone facing the deepest of Mediterranean blues.

Explore more flavours ! From cuisine and fine wines to architecture and adventure, you’ll find the best of the Mediterranean here in Malta.

Explore more calm . With such a fantastically favourable climate and an astonishing array of underwater sites, it’s easy to see why Malta is consistently voted one of the best diving destinations in the World! Malta has also wellness and spa facilities at the luxury hotels and club resorts. 

Explore more possibilities , Malta is holidaying as the mood takes you. And with near year-round sun, you can indulge in outdoor living at its best. 

Explore more stories . Malta’s culture is a unique blend of influences from various civilizations that have inhabited the islands over thousands of years, from the prehistoric megalithic people, to the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, and Knights of St. John.

Explore more freedom, Malta is your European Best LGBTQ+ destination and #1 on the Rainbow Europe Map For 7 years running. And, if this were not enough, there are the other two islands - Gozo and Comino - which can be a pleasant change of scene during your stay on the mainland or alternative destinations in themselves.

Book your flights to Malta as well as your accommodation in Malta and your activities and tours in Malta , such  as a “ Malta: Gozo & Comino Islands, Blue Lagoon & Seacaves Tour " and stay in one of the  Best Places to Visit in Europe in 2024 ! 

  Best for:    Nature Lovers, Families, Wellness, Calm, Freedom, Wine lovers, Culture, Romantic Getaway, History Buffs, Foodies, Beach lovers,  LGBTQ+. 

  Nearest airport:   Book your flights to  Malta and  your transfer .

  Where to stay:      " Hyatt Regency Malta " located in St Julian's, 1km from Balluta Beach.

4. Geneva, Switzerland

Nestled in the heart of Europe, Geneva offers an array of unforgettable experiences amid its unique setting. Surrounded by awe-inspiring nature, the city hugs the tip of the largest alpine lake in Western Europe, with the majestic Alps and the Jura mountains in the backdrop. Rolling vineyards and countryside envelop the city, dotted with picturesque villages, where nature is everywhere.

As the second-largest city in Switzerland, Geneva boasts a captivating mix of historical charm and a vibrant cultural scene. Les Nations proudly hosts the European Headquarters of the United Nations , while Les Eaux-Vives invites visitors to witness the iconic Jet d’eau and enjoy a lively beach ambiance .

Beyond its diplomatic significance, Geneva is steeped in rich heritage, celebrated through its world-renowned watchmaking and a delectable chocolate tradition. Discovering Geneva is a journey through the biggest Old Town in Switzerland, dining in top-notch restaurants, and indulging in a plethora of outdoor activities . The city consistently exceeds expectations, offering a magical experience in every season. Recent additions to its attractions include the family-friendly Science Getaway, the inviting Eaux-Vives public beach, and the indulgent Choco Pass a selfguided chocolate tour. Geneva is truly a vibrant city that seamlessly blends tradition with modern delights, ensuring every visit is a remarkable and dynamic experience.

Book your flights , your accommodation in Geneva as well as your tours & activities in Geneva and stay in one of the  Best Places to Visit in Europe in 2024.

  Best for:  Green City Break, Wine Lovers, Shopping,  All-Year Round Events, Exclusive Destination, Outdoor Sport, Star-Awarded Cuisine, Chocolate lovers.

  Nearest airport:   Book your flights to  Geneva and your transfer .

  Where to stay:  " CitizenM Geneva ". This hotel has an excellent location score.

5. Batumi, Adjara Region, Georgia

Batumi is amongst the trendiest destination of 2024 . Forget Barcelona and Berlin , Batumi is so much more surprising, more exciting, more affordable and more exotic.

History rubs shoulders with modernity, the cosmopolitan city rubs shoulders with untouched nature in one of the most beautiful regions in the world, the Adjara Region.  For lazy days on the beach , for an exciting nightlife , for a romantic stay , with friends, with family, for wellness or the culinary riches of this region rich in flavours, Batumi is a real sensory journey, a unique and unforgettable destination in the world.

Adjara Region is an extraordinary destination for a stay off the beaten track and it offers the best of Europe with affordable prices and well-preserved authenticity. Due to its all-year-round subtropical and mild climate , Batumi is distinguished by its remarkably green natural environment. Batumi has a 19th-century Botanical Garden rich in rare species and the city is surrounded by three National Parks recently recognized by UNESCO as World’s Natural Heritage sites.

The architecture of the city was shaped and designed by European architects in the 19th century when Batumi became a port city called “Porto Franco” (freeport). Batumi is home to diverse cultures and religions , where Christian Orthodox, Catholic, or Armenian churches, mosques, and synagogues have lived in harmony throughout the centuries, a way of life we would do well to emulate today.

Batumi has a splendid mix of beautiful scenery of sea and high mountains , ancient cultural monuments, monasteries, mediaeval arch bridges, beautiful lakes, and authentic villages to travel back in time.

Nowadays, Batumi with its cutting-edge architecture, European-style squares and streets, world-class brand hotels and old city cafes has turned into a cultural hub which often hosts major regional events, international artists, art exhibitions and world sports championships. In addition to a legendary hospitality, Batumi’s offers excellent wines and mostly undiscovered cuisine.

Indeed, for a sensory journey , Batumi is the destination to put at the top of your travel wish list in 2024 .

  Best for:  Foodies, Wine lovers,  History Buffs, Architecture, Beaches, Nature, Outdoor Sport, Hiking, Biking, Water sport, Shopping.

  Nearest airport:   Book your flights to Batumi.

  Where to stay:  " Sheraton Batumi ". This 5-star hotel is located in Batumi City Center. It has a spa area with indoor and outdoor swimming pools.

6. Riga, Latvia

In 2024 visit the most cosmopolitan of the Baltic capitals, Riga , the capital of Latvia, is a modern city with a historical heart that offers a spectacular variety of natural, culinary and cultural charms.

Exploring the best places in Riga will give you a definitive answer to the question of why Riga is worth visiting. Riga Old town has UNESCO World Heritage status. The historical center holds many winding paths and well-hidden streets to rediscover the Old Town Riga upon every visit. It is surrounded by Romanticism, Gothic and Baroque testimonials that refresh the views of the modern city. 

Pedantic luxury of the rich building facades can be admired for a long time at Art Nouveau district because about a third of the houses in the city center are genuine pearls of this style.  Architecture, theaters, art galleries , outdoor events are only a small part of the whole cultural pie that can be tasted in Riga. The luxurious Opera House, various music halls, independent cinemas, and contemporary art scene are among the brightest cultural offerings.  

At the end of 2023 Latvia and Riga joined exclusive Michelin guide family, earing it's first star. In Riga you can find cozy cafes or fancy restaurants on every corner in the city center. Food menus there consist of combinations of local and world cuisine flavors, emphasizing seasonal and locally available products. Whether it is a restaurant with white tablecloths or a place to grab a coffee and some vegan bread, it is evident that Riga likes to eat and enjoy food. And let's not forget about the drinks! Riga is home to the best coffee roasters in the Baltics , thus finding a decent cup of Joe in the city is not a problem. The same applies for a glass of beer, as there are a quite a few of home-grown breweries that take their IPA’ s and lagers very seriously.

Despite the remarkable age of 822, Riga is far from feeling old. The city's youthful spirit is best enjoyed at one of the street food festivals or other creative and urban events held throughout the year. But if you want to get more adventurous and closer to the nature, you just have to spend only thirty minutes from the city center to the beach , districts surrounded by forests and fresh sea air, walking along the pier - unique proximity to nature with breathtaking landscapes that you can enjoy here in Riga. Almost everything nature has to offer is just a short drive away.

  Best for:  Foodies, Art Nouveau Lovers, Art Scene, Nature & Culture City Break, Romantic Getaway, Outdoor sport. 

  Nearest airports:   Book your flights to  Riga. 

  Where to stay:   " Hilton Garden Inn ". This hotel has an excellent score location.

7. Madeira, Portugal

You don’t have to travel a long way to find the ideal holiday destination. There are endless reasons for visiting Madeira , one of your Best Destinations to Visit in 2024 .

In addition to its stunning scenery and luxuriant mountains, this archipelago offers a mild climate all year round, a warm welcome, peace, safety and security . 

To really get to know Madeira, climb to the top of a mountain and enjoy fantastic, breathtaking views or follow the trails and paths in the Laurissilva Forest along more than 1,400 km of Levadas (irrigation channels or aqueducts) in a unique encounter with the island’s soul.

Feel the energy flowing from the cosmopolitan ambiance of Funchal’s streets and purchase some of the famous Madeira embroidery, wine or wickerwork.

Take a tour around the island, stopping off on the way to admire the landscape or to enjoy a traditional gastronomic delicacy. For more energetic visitors there is scuba-diving, surfing, windsurfing or jet-skiing, whereas romantics may prefer a wonderful sailboat trip along the coast to enjoy the sunset.

But to make this your dream holiday, you really must spend some time on the paradisiacal island of Porto Santo 40 km from Madeira, only 15 minutes by plane or 2h30 on ferry. Known as the “golden island”, Porto Santo is blessed with a 9 km long fine, unpolluted sandy beach washed by a clear, calm sea - all you need for a perfect stay.

Discover these enchanted islands… happiness is so near!

Book your flights to Funchal Airport, your transfer , your accommodation as well as your activities and tours in Madeira , such as a " Madeira: Food and Wine Walking Tour ".

  Best for:  Nature Lovers, Foodies, Surf, Instragrammers, Outdoor Sport,  Safety.

  Nearest airports:   Book your flights  to  Funchal Airport and  your transfer .

  Where to stay:    the luxurious " Belmond Reid's Palace " with 3 swimming pools and direct access to oceanic waters.

8. Florence, Italy

Like Rome , Venice or Paris , Florence is an open-air museum; it is in Florence that you will encounter Michelangelo’s sublime David at the Uffizi Gallery and even Botticelli’s “Birth of Venus" .

In one of your European Best Destinations 2024 you can also admire the facades of the awe-inspiring basilicas and cathedrals that form its unmistakable skyline, and see the lavish palaces that tell the story of the different periods of the city's history: from the birthplace of the Renaissance to the capital of Italy , all the way through to the first half of the twentieth century when Florence became a hub for the avant-garde.

When you visit Florence's museums and see the works housed in them, you are not just delving into the history of a city and its treasures. Rather, you are recognizing the cultural imaginary that has contributed to the creation of Western civilization as we know it, laying the foundations for the aesthetic, educational, scientific, culinary, political and artistic principles that surround us today.

Florence is also a romantic, gourmet, astonishing city , which can be discovered on foot, with no other plans than to wander around and be able to marvel. Florence is much more than a historic centre, it is also excursions into the surrounding nature and the Tuscan villages where great vineyards such as Rufina, Pontassieve and Pelago await you.

This year discover Florence, one of the European Best Destinations 2024, the art and history capital of the world.

Book your flights to Florence, your transfer , your accommodation in Florence as well as your activities and tours , such as a " Florence: Uffizi Gallery, David & Accademia Small Group Tour ".

  Where to stay:  the “ Portrait Firenze ” is 30m from the famous Ponte Vecchio Bridge.”

9. London, United Kingdom

With the Paris Olympic Games due to be held in 2024, you will head for the capital of love only if what you like are crowds and sport, otherwise London is a far better choice.

London offers a multitude of different atmospheres and neighbourhoods like Carnaby for shopping , Notting Hill for a romantic stroll, Portobello for the flea market, Camden for the punk and libertarian spirit, the West End Theatre District and its legendary musicals or even the gay and sparkling district of Soho, Chinatown, emblematic places like Piccadilly Circus, Big Ben, the London Eye, Tower Bridge, the Shard, Kew Gardens and great parks such as Greenwich Park and Hyde Park:  all of them excellent reasons to visit London in 2024 .

During your stay, don't miss out on the Best Hidden Gems in England as well as the Best Castles in England and Best Beaches in England for a total English experience and a thoroughly unforgettable stay.

Book your flights to London, your transfer , your accommodation in London as well as your tours & activities in London as a " London: The London Eye Entry Ticket ".  

This year, more than ever, the crown for best offbeat city break goes to London , the capital of abundance.

  Best for:  City Break, Shopping, LGBTQ+, Musicals, Culture, Families, Lovers, Foodies. 

  Nearest airports:   Book your flights  to London and your transfer . 

  Where to stay:    " Shangri-La The Shard, London " offers 5-star luxury and breathtaking views of the capital and beyond.

10. Reykjavik, Iceland

Capital of Iceland, land of the Vikings, Reykjavik  is one of your Best Destinations to visit in Europe in 2024 . Itis renowned for the exceptional environment which surrounds it such as its volcanoes, hills, blue lagoon or even for its sublime church "Hallgrimskirkja" from which each year one is taken of the most beautiful fireworks in Europe.

With some 130,000 inhabitants, Reykjavik is the most human-sized European capital, which does not prevent it from having an incredible cultural life, a vibrant nightlife, a large associative and sporting fabric and an exceptional music scene. A city to restart, recharge, refuel, Reykjavik offers experiences only to be lived in Reykjavik.

If you like good food, Reykjavik has an incredible range of local and international cuisine. During a food walk you can discover the country's specialties (notably seafood and lamb or fermented shark). 

Come in August to celebrate Gay Pride, Reykjavik is proud to raise the LGTBQ+ colours every year since 1999, showing the whole world that even the most virile vikings know how to have fun and are open-minded.

For vegetarians and vegans, have no fear, Reykjavik offers more than 40 vegan and vegetarian restaurants, some of which are even cat bars.

For a marginal city break combining nature, gastronomy, wellness, Reykjavik the perfect destination for open-minded travellers who love wide open spaces and non-standardized destinations.

Book your flights to Reykjavik as well as your accommodation and your activities & tours in Reykjavik and visit one of the Best Destinations in Europe 2024 . .

  Best for:  Nature Lovers, LGBTQ+, Instragrammers, Outdoor Sport,  Foodies, Nightlife.

  Nearest airports:   Book your flights  to Reykjavik  and  your transfer .

  Where to stay:    " Tower Suites Reykjavik ". Stylish Suites Located in Central Reykjavik.

11. Lège-Cap-Ferret, Nouvelle Aquitaine, France

Lège-Cap-Ferret is like a Proust madeleine reminiscent of real holidays. Simplicity, sharing, an open-air market, an impromptu concert, new friends met during a bike ride, an aperitif on the beach , this is the South-West and its legendary conviviality .

Leave your tourist rental or hotel and take a walk or bike ride. Join the nearby café, visit the lighthouse and admire the Pilat dune, the largest dune in Europe. Taste oysters in the neighbouring oyster village or take a short sea trip with an oyster farmer.

Here everything has the great taste of summer holidays , from the freshness of fish to mouth-watering ice cream or the white wine accompanying your seafood. Here there are no shopping centres, just a small boulevard lined with fashion boutiques with their pretty dresses and linen shirts to bring home as souvenirs of an unforgettable holiday in the South-West of France.

The Arcachon Bay is a jewel of European tourism once prized by the nobility for the quality of its pure air (sea air and pine air combined). The Arcachon basin offers an incredible architectural heritage and beautiful villas in different architectural styles. The most recent constructions truly embrace nature and give this magical place the appearance of a Robinson Crusoe island , with added comfort and conviviality.

Cap-Ferret, a destination which the French would prefer to keep to themselves, is not yet well known to the international traveller; you can only be seduced by this lifestyle combining simplicity, good food and conviviality.

For holidays with family, couples or friends, where true luxury is time, nature and horizons, book your flights to Bordeaux (1h by car), your accommodation in Cap Ferret or Arcachon , as well as your activities and tours , such as a " Cap-Ferret with Oysters Tasting ".

  Best for:  Robinson Crusoe Holidays, Beach Lovers, Families, Food Lovers, Sunny Holidays, Digital Detox.

  Nearest airport:   Book your flights to Bordeaux (1h by car).

  Where to stay:  " La Cabane du Ferret ". Featuring a sun terrace and a swimming pool.

12. Siena, Italy

This year get off the beaten track and travel through time. Stay in the heart of Tuscany, probably one of the most beautiful regions of Italy . In addition to Siena, it is an area rich in medieval villages, breathtaking landscapes, historic buildings with much to offer: walks in nature, wine tasting, enjoying olive oils and delicious local products.

Surrounded by nature, Siena is one of the most beautiful medieval towns in Italy :  its historic centre was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. One could come to Siena for the beauty of the "Piazza del Campo" alone when it hosts a spectacular horse race in July and August.

Climb to the top of the "Torre del Mangia" one of the symbols of Siena and admire the Piazza and the whole city from above. If you are an art enthusiast, be sure to visit the Palazzo Pubblico. It houses masterpieces of Siena's art golden age. Not far from Siena, you can discover Buonconvento, the most beautiful village in Italy , Monticiano and its natural reserves or Rapolano Terme with the best spas in Italy.

Much more than a trip, it is an experience. Stroll through Siena, a city that will please everyone, a romantic destination made for lovers of art, theatre, nature, foodies and families. Siena is a perfect choice for a holiday combining city break and nature getaway, far from the tourist crowds of Florence, Rome or Milan.

Book your flights to Florence (1h by car), your accommodation in Tuscany as well as your activities and tours in Tuscany , such as a " From Florence: Tuscany Day Trip with Lunch at Chianti Winery ".

  Best for:  History Buffs, Romantic Getaway, Short Breaks, Foodies, Instagrammers, Families, Art Lovers, Nature. 

  Nearest airport:   Book your flights to  Florence (1h by car). and  your transfer .

  Where to stay:     " Il Giardino di Pantaneto Residenza d'Epoca ". This property has a garden and city views. 

13. Ponza Island - Italy

This small Italian island of a few thousand inhabitants will be your favourite destination this year 2024 .

This Eden, with an area of only 7km2, is located off the coasts of Rome and Naples and was until recently a well- kept secret by the richest Italian families.

Ponza, for the oldest among us, will remind us of Saint Tropez in the 60s and 70s with its festive atmosphere, simplicity, colour, meetings, cocktails, designer boutiques, coves and beaches.

The best way to enjoy the island is to rent a boat or take a water taxi and discover the most beautiful coves and beaches of Ponza but also its caves and natural pools such as the natural pool of Cala Feola to the West of Ponza. Do you like the views? You will enjoy superb panoramas from the top of the cliffs of Ponza such as the Maria Rosa Cliffs.

Come and taste the fish of the day at “Da Enzo al Frontone” also nicknamed “Solo a Vela” because this restaurant is only accessible by boat from the port. Finally, don't forget that you are in Italy, it would be sacrilege not to end your meal with an Italian ice cream . The Bar Gelateria Panoramica is located in the port of Ponza and it is one of the best ice cream parlours on the island:  its strawberry sorbet is a delight!

Ponza is magical at any time of the year but if you can take your holiday in September (until mid-October) it is certainly the best time of the year to discover Ponza.

Book your flights to Rome, your accommodation in Ponza as well as your activities & tours , such as a " From Rome: Ponza Island Day Trip with Boat Excursion ".

  Best for:  Secluded Island Holidays, Beach Lovers, Instagrammers, Ice Cream Lovers, Families, Sun Seekers.

  Nearest airport:   B ook your flights to  Rome, take the ferry at Anzio Porto direction Ponza (1h30 car + ferry from Rome, 2h50 if you land in Naples Airport).

  Where to stay:  " Hotel Chiaia Di Luna " set on the cliffs of Ponza.

14. Porto-Vecchio, Corsica, France

This year, more than ever, you want destinations of rare beauty but also exclusive destinations far from the crowds . Porto-Vecchio is the perfect choice for this. Imagine a destination with a 16th century Genoese citadel, a great marina, a few yachts and fishing boats, shops, bars, restaurants…  You will find some of the most beautiful beaches in France like Santa Giulia and its crystal-clear waters and fine white sand, or even Palombaggia and its umbrella pines to rest in the shade under their sweet scent. 

In Porto-Vecchio you have the charm of an old Croatian or Montenegrin town with the beauty of a Tahitian lagoon a few kilometres away. You will discover the Corsican identity, which is neither France, nor Italy, nor a mixture of the two, but a uniquely Corsican feel to be appreciated with humility and respect just as the Corsicans do.

Porto-Vecchio is the promise of an unforgettable gastronomic, cultural and visual experience . Are you stiff from too much lazing at the beach? Meet the winegrowers, the women and men who cultivate the land to give you wines of character. Too much sun? Immerse yourself in the heart of the maquis and be transported by the smell of Mediterranean plants, unless it is the beautiful heritage of Porto-Vecchio that thrills you, its Genoese citadels, Romanesque chapels or prehistoric villages. 

Whether you are looking for a relaxing, sporting, gastronomic, oenological, cultural holiday, with family, friends or as a couple, Porto-Vecchio is the guarantee of an unforgettable vacation. It is for this reason that Porto-Vecchio is truly one of the best European destinations 2024 .

Book your flights to Figari Airport (30 min by car), your transfer, your accommodation in Porto-Vecchio as well as your activities and tours in Porto-Vecchio , such as a " Porto Vecchio: South Corsica Cruise and Snorkelling Day Trip ".

  Best for:  Nature Lovers, Outdoor Sport, Sustainable Tourism, Beach Lovers, Water Sport,  Gastronomy, Hiking, Families, History Buffs. 

  Nearest airport:   Book your flights to  Figari Airport (30 min by car). 

  Where to stay:   " Domaine Santa Giulia Palace ". The modern apartments are part of a domain situated in a 10-hectare park. They are between 400 and 800 metres from Santa Giulia Beach.

15. Champagne Wine Region, France

For many years, the Champagne Wine Region has become a popular destination for travellers looking for unique experiences combining gastronomy, wellness, outdoor activities, heritage , and… champagne! The landscapes of the Champagne vineyards are magnificent at any time of the year with their colour variations ranging from light green to fiery red in autumn. Here, nature rolls as far as the eye can see and unveils for you the secret of the wine of kings: Champagne !

From Epernay to Dormans, villages located along the meanders of the Marne, you will visit a unique land in the world where more than 200 million bottles of champagne rest, nestled in more than 100 km of galleries dug in the chalk. 

During your stay, don't forget to board the tethered balloon to enjoy a glass of champagne and a 360-degree view of the Champagne vineyards. Other villages in Champagne are also worth discovering, such as Hautvillers, the cradle of Champagne and known worldwide for the famous "Dom Pérignon" champagne. Also, don't miss Reims, the capital of Champagne wines, its famous Champagne houses such as "Demoiselle", "Taittinger"and "Veuve-Cliquot" and also its spectacular cathedral. 

This year, just 1.5 hours from Paris, take off for new emotions by discovering the Marne Valley and the Champagne wine region one of the Best Destinations in Europe for lovers .

Book your flights to Paris (1h30 from Reims) your accommodation in Champagne , as well as your activities and tours , such as a " Champagne and Family-Run Wineries Tour ".

  Best for:  Foodies, Wellness, Heritage, Champagne Lovers, Romantic Getaway.

  Nearest airports:   Book your flights   to Paris (1h30 by car or train). and  your transfer .

  Where to stay:   “ Domaine les Crayères ”: this 5-star hotel has a garden, a terrace and a restaurant.

16. Faroe Islands

An autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark, the Faroes are an archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean to put at the top of your travel wish-list in 2024 .

Formerly the private turf of a few travellers passionate about ornithology or hiking, the Faroes today attract travellers looking for authenticity, preserved nature , spectacular landscapes, sometimes dramatic, steep cliffs populated by thousands of sea birds or from which spring fountains flow into the sea.

Today very well connected by road tunnel, ferry, bridge and roads, you will not miss anything of the Faroes during your stay in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean.

Still having trouble figuring out where this archipelago is located? Let's say between the tip of Scotland and Iceland to keep it simple. This gives you an idea of the climate. If you like extreme conditions, come in winter, otherwise come in spring or summer. The Faroes can be summed up in a slogan "Discover the islands, discover yourself".

Discovering the Faroes is discovering a destination which has experienced isolation for centuries and has therefore preserved its traditions, authenticity and natural habitat. Eighteen mountainous islands are waiting for you, are you ready?

Book your flights to Vagar Airport (1h20 by car), your accommodation in the Faroes and your tours and activities in Faroe Islands  such as a " Guided boat tour ".

  Best for:  Nature Lovers, Hiking, Birdwatching, Foodies, Instragrammers.

  Nearest airports:   Book your flights to  Vagar Airport.

  Where to stay:   " The View " is a sustainable holiday home in Bour.

17. Sirmione, Lombardy, Italy

  Best for:  Romantic Getaway, Family Holidays, Active Holidays, Nature Lovers. 

  Nearest airports:   Book your flights to  Milan Bergamo Airport (2h by car).

  Where to stay:   " Olivi Hotel & Natural Spa ". Surrounded by olive groves on the Sirmione Peninsula.

18. Piran, Slovenia

Piran is probably the most beautiful little town in Europe and in any case the most photogenic destination in Europe. Piran is located in Istria, a region renowned for its vineyards, its gastronomy close to Italian gastronomy (oh these truffles!) and also for the beauty of its crystal-clear waters and nature.

Piran is, along with Portoroz and Koper, one of the few seaside resorts in Slovenia and probably the most beautiful one. City of love , Piran will seduce you with its narrow town streets, the beauty of its facades and the picture sights of the Slovenian Mediterranean.

Discover the Venetian architecture, the ancient city walls, the Monastery of St Francis and participate in the harvest of the famous Piran fleur de sel. This medieval city has it all:  dive into the underwater world with your family or discover that the stars are also visible in broad daylight at the wonderful Pira aquarium.

Take an E-Bike to discover the Slovenian Coast on a tour that combines local cuisine and beautiful beaches or try homemade premium extra virgin olive oil in the small village of Marezige. You can even take a "Mediterranean Fish Cooking Workshop with Irena Fonda" (not Jane Fonda's sister) in her magnificent garden. She will turn you in no time into an expert in preparing fish and other seafood.

Piran is the perfect destination for unforgettable gastronomic, oenological, cultural and sensory experiences .

During your stay, don't forget the other towns in Istria such as Motovun and Rovinj in Croatia or, of course, the amazing Slovenian capital Ljubljana (1h by car); you can also treat yourself to a day trip to Venice facing the beautiful town of Piran.

Book your flights to Ljubljana (1h), Rijeka (2h) or Venice (2h) as well as your accommodation in Piran and your activities and tours , such as a " Piran: E-Bike rental ".

  Best for:  Foodies, Instagrammers, Nature Lovers, Wine Lovers, Water Sport, Biking, Hiking, Families. 

  Nearest airports:   Book your flights  to  Ljubljana (1h), Rijeka (2h) or Venice (2h)

  Where to stay:   " Hotel Piran ". That property has a restaurant and a terrace.

19. Newquay, Cornwall

In 2024, discover Newquay, one of the best destinations to visit in Europe and one of the most beautiful seaside resorts in the UK. Also awarded the title of Best family Holiday Destination in England , Newquay is often compared to Biarritz in the South-West of France , or to a city in Australia, with its feet in the ocean.

This city is a real invitation to surfing , relaxation and conviviality around a shared meal or an impromptu concert.

Newquay is also a perfect destination for a romantic getaway in Cornwall. With its many spa hotels and à la carte restaurants , Newquay is an ideal destination for a stay with your loved one.

You can also treat yourself to a getaway to the countryside in a cosy lodge with hot tub and log burner.  An introduction to surfing is one of the many activities to be experienced: Newquay is the surfing capital of England . There are many surf schools if you want to learn or simply rent equipment. Newquay also offers other activities like golf, bike riding, go-karts and many more. If you are travelling with family, don't miss a visit to the "Trenance Valley": there is a free play park with slides, the Newquay Zoo, a miniature railway, a swimming pool and the star of the moment, a trampoline park.

For families, long-term friends looking for a place to get together or for lovers, there is everything you dream of for a holiday that suits you in Newquay.

Book your flights to Plymouth (1h by car), your accommodation in Newquay as well as your tours and activities in Cornwall such as a " Newquay: Introduction to Surfing Lesson ".

  Best for:   Surfing, Friends, Romantic Getaway, Outdour Sport, Families. 

  Nearest airport:   Book your flights to Plymouth.

  Where to stay:   " Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa ". This adults- only hotel and spa boasts a bar and a restaurant.

20. Thassos, North Aegean Sea, Greece

We all want to go to Greece but where exactly? Athens or Santorini ? These two destinations are often classified as overtourism destinations where you are more likely to come across another tourist than a local.

Imagine an island with deserted beaches, a little corner of lost paradise that the Greeks prefer to keep for themselves and where you can enjoy delicious mezze for a few euros in typical cafés. Add to that a natural lagoon, Marble Beach which contrasts with the turquoise blue of the water, and a warm welcome from the locals.

There are only very, very good reasons to visit Thassos, one of your best European destinations in 2024 .

Have a few lazy days at the beach, then climb the mountains to meet the inhabitants of Panagia or Kazavati. They will welcome you with open arms.

Thassos is an adventure, don't hesitate to rent a 4x4 to wander through its wild and untouched nature and do not miss anything of this earthly paradise.

Take your flights to Athens, then a domestic flight to Kavala and the ferry to the island. Alternate lazy days with days of discovery in the mountains, restaurants, trendy bars, visits to authentic villages, meeting people and sharing unforgettable moments.

  Best for:  Nature lovers, Hikers, Foodies, Families, Beach Lovers, Instagrammers, Sun Seekers.

  Nearest airport:   Book your flights   to  Athens + a domestic flight to Kavala and take the Ferry to Keramoti (30 min).

  Where to stay:   " Hotel Sirines ".  Featuring a swimming pool with hot tub and pool snack bar, it is situated just 250 metres from the beach. 

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• Relevance of trade unions and mandatory membership: what…

Relevance of trade unions and mandatory membership: what those involved think

Construction, hospitality and tourism are the main sectors contributing to the country’s economy yet workers in these industries are either "not unionised" or show low levels of unionisation, according to Malta's leading trade unions and industry experts.

The earliest Maltese trade unions date back to the late 19th century when the influence of the British Trade Union movement and the Industrial Relations model started to dissipate in other countries. They were formed to seek balance in power dynamics between employers and employees, where workers could then be able to negotiate for fair wages, reasonable working hours and safe working conditions, shaping modern labour laws and standards.

Malta’s oldest trade union is the Malta Union of Teachers (MUT), which was founded in 1919, while the largest one is the General Workers’ Union (GWU), founded in 1943.

Recent discussions between some unions and the government regarding collective agreements for improved financial packages and working conditions appear to have fallen short or have been delayed beyond the agreements' expiry dates. This raises the question of whether trade unions have perhaps lost some of their relevance or power in today's world.

The Malta Independent on Sunday reached out to the GWU, UĦM Voice of the Workers, the Malta Employers’ Association (MEA) as well as a human resources and industrial relations consultant, enquiring about the validity of trade unions today.

Is a union, or to be part of a union, still relevant today?

All parties believed that trade unions are still important to today’s societies.

UĦM’s spokesperson said that union membership will remain relevant as it is “a form of insurance against any possible abuse by the employer and a powerful tool to safeguard workers’ rights”.

He said that the Adequate Minimum Wage Directive acknowledges such need to the point that it established a target of 80% union membership among employees.

The GWU also said that the relevance of trade unions is important now “more than ever”.

“Locally, unions remain an important part of the labour landscape. Trade unions have played a crucial role in advocating for workers' rights, securing better wages and improving working conditions,” the GWU spokesperson said.

She continued that general unions like the GWU are more active in all economic sectors, including manufacturing, aviation, disciplinary forces, maritime, public administration and public sector, energy and pharmaceutical and chemicals, professional and financial services, logistics, construction and metal, hospitality and service providers.

The GWU also said that unions are “instrumental” in negotiating collective agreements and sectoral agreements, contributing to economic stability by fostering dialogue between employers and employees, reducing industrial disputes and promoting cooperative relations.

“On more than one occasion the GWU acted as a link between foreign investors and local private investors,” she said, adding that it also influences the national agenda.

MEA’s director general Joseph Farrugia said he believed that “the relevance of a union depends on whether it is perceived to be offering a service to its members”.

However, he said that unions have always played an important role in social dialogue and in the labour market.

Human resources and industrial relations consultant Gejtu Vella said that trade unions are “an important vehicle to bring about cohesion between different categories of workers”.

“Trade unions maintain industrial democracy at the place of work. Unions also assist individual members with their grievances, negotiate collective agreements and represent workers and their dependents on various national bodies,” he said.

Vella’s advice to employers’ organisations and to the government is to never underestimate the contribution of trade unions to economic growth and industrial relations.

How effective would you say discussions on collective agreements are today?

Vella said that trade unions can be effective, and in most cases, are, often negotiating effectively and obtaining benefits, both financial and improvements in working conditions.

“At times, social dialogue fails to bring about the necessary improvements to the different sectors within the public sector because the arm negotiating on behalf of the government is under-resourced, creating backlogs in collective agreements that remain outstanding well past the due re-negotiating date,” Vella said.

He continued that when negotiations fail, industrial action is inevitable, and it “has unfortunately been a Labour government practice to try to curb legitimate industrial action being taken by trade unions by taking legal action against them. On many occasions, the Courts have dismissed such action by the government”.

The GWU spokesperson said that the union has signed seven collective/sectoral agreements that cover over 9,000 workers just last week and said that discussions on collective agreements are still very effective.

“The effectiveness of these discussions can be seen in excellent working conditions, relatively stable industrial relations and improved employment conditions over time,” the GWU said.

She continued that the effectiveness of the discussions is also reflected in the membership numbers and the degree of engagement from workers.

“High union membership indicates strong worker support and the ability to mobilise effectively, thereby enhancing the unions' negotiating power with the government,” she said.

The UĦM spokesperson said that although at times, there are issues which might escalate and give rise to industrial action, the overall picture is positive.

“On average, UĦM signs a collective agreement every 10 days, and these invariably result in better employment conditions, more flexibility, better career progression paths and improved take-home pay,” the spokesperson said.

Farrugia agreed that discussions between unions, employer organisations and the government at national level are “critical for designing and implementing economic and social policy”.

He said that at enterprise level, employees may feel the need to become union members for collective bargaining purposes or at times to address particular issues.

“One should not equate unionisation with industrial conflict. In most cases, management in the private sector works well with unions based on an understanding that a collective agreement can work in their mutual interest, even if negotiations can be a challenging exercise,” he said.

Farrugia continued that the public sector is more politically charged by its nature, and the character of collective bargaining and industrial relations may have different aspects.

“This is why, for example, the MEA has long reiterated that collective bargaining in the public sector should not be conducted close to elections,” Farrugia said.

Should discussions continue on the proposal for mandatory union membership?

All parties were asked about the proposal for mandatory trade union membership, a promise which comes from the Labour Party programme, where it also pledges to start discussions with social partners for the implementation of this measure.

Differing views were presented by unions, as opposed to the MEA. The GWU said that it still advocates and believes in automatic union membership “as a means to combat precarious employment, abuse and exploitation, particularly in sectors lacking protection”.

Additionally, the GWU said that this way, a voice can be given to the thousands of employees who wish to become members but are prohibited from joining a trade union by these employers.

“We have initiated discussions on national level, and we are committed to introduce this measure. I don’t believe that employers’ associations have any legal right to object to this as they don’t have the remit to represent employees. We want to give workers the opportunity to express their concerns and demands without fear of oppression or discrimination,” the GWU said.

The GWU spokesperson said that the proposal does not impinge on the right of association, having consulted with foreign experts.

“This proposal also addresses the concern of 'free riders' who benefit from collective bargaining without contributing towards trade unions,” the GWU said.

The UĦM said that the proposal is currently on the agenda of the Employment Relations Board.

“UĦM believes in a model whereby mandatory membership is only applicable to low-income workers as these are the most prone for exploitation. So far, the matter is still pending,” the spokesperson said.

UĦM also agreed that mandatory membership does not impinge on the rights of employees for free choice, as employees would have the right to choose their preferred union or even set up a house union.

“Moreover, those who still do not want to enrol in a union but are benefitting from better conditions through a collective agreement may opt to pay the equivalent of the membership fee in a special fund, which would be intended for training and strengthening social dialogue,” the UĦM said.

The MEA, which opposes the proposal, said it stands firm in its belief that any sort of association, whether it is in a trade union or an employer organisation, should be freely entered into and never be subject to imposition.

“Based on this principle, we can never support mandatory union membership in any form. It is up to unions and employer bodies to make themselves relevant to their constituents in order for them to see the value of associating themselves,” Joe Farrugia said.  

“Since the employer should have no say or influence on the decision whether an employee becomes a union member, such employer cannot be penalised for not having a collective agreement in his company. Whether the company is covered by a collective agreement or not does not depend on the employer. Therefore, any tendering requirements that award extra points for companies that have a collective agreement can be challenged,” he continued.

Farrugia said that forcing membership on anyone is a “violation of fundamental liberties” and the decision should be taken without any coercion.

Gejtu Vella also expressed himself against mandatory union membership, believing it “unconstitutional” and limits an individual’s right to association, or not.

“Mandatory membership raises other issues, not only on employers but also on the trade unions themselves,” Vella said. He said he felt that this does not only impinge on one’s rights, but also diminishes the importance of the trade union movement.

Vella said that trade unions must find positive alternatives to attract new members to their folds. “Giving away free membership or substituting membership in different formats to increase membership should not be the way forward,” he said.

He also noted that mandatory membership goes against the ILO Convention C087 on the Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise.

“Closed shops”, as practised locally in the not-too-distant past, exclude workers who do not form part of a particular union or, worse still, opt to be in another union, Vella said.

“In my opinion, we should not turn the clock to those sad times in trade unionism. Trade union membership should be promoted rather than imposed,” he said.

Is there a sector in the country which lacks a union for its workers?

Several mentioned that sectors which involve third country nationals or low-paid jobs lack unions for their workers.

The UĦM said that construction and tourism are some examples of low union density, the reason being that whenever they attempt to join a union, they are faced with the threat of having their contract terminated or not renewed, making it clear that any such move could spell trouble.

“This is why mandatory membership for low-income workers would be a powerful tool to start addressing exploitation of migrants and TCNs,” the UĦM said.

The GWU also mentioned construction as exhibiting low unionisation, along with the insurance and finance sectors. It also said that mandatory membership would bolster efforts to combat precarious employment and exploitation for these workers.

Vella said that two sectors, which contribute to the growth of the Maltese economy are the construction and the hospitality industry, and workers in both industries are “not unionised”.

“Trade unions should organise national campaigns with the aim to improve the salaries and working conditions of these workers. This may also be an opportunity for trade unions to improve membership,” Vella said, acknowledging the challenges ahead but expressing confidence that “once the ball starts rolling, I am sure there would be no stopping”.

Farrugia said that trade union membership is widespread in Malta, but it is more concentrate in some sectors than others.

“We also have a good range of general and sector specific unions. The public sector and manufacturing, for example, have a higher density of union membership than other sectors. This characteristic is common in many countries,” Farrugia said.

Is the power of trade unions declining in Malta?

Last year, PL MEP Alfred Sant spoke about the power of trade unions declining in Europe, leading to the stagnation of income for European workers. The parties were asked if they would say that this is also the case in Malta.

“It is indeed a phenomenon that trade union membership is falling worldwide, for various reasons, such as the fact that in the EU, there are many directives that regulate the labour market, which may limit the scope of collective bargaining, as many entitlements would already have been enshrined in these directives,” Farrugia said.

He continued that there is also a growing individualistic culture whereby employees would rather negotiate their own terms than bargain collectively.

“In Malta, younger people are more mobile and switch jobs more frequently. This makes them less reliant on collective bargaining to improve their working conditions,” he noted.

However, Farrugia said that unions will always have a pivotal role to play, adding that many of the benefits and conditions of the directives are the result of engagement of unions and employer bodies in EU institutions.

“It is for this reason that governments should assist in capacity building for the social partners to carry out their mission of social dialogue more effectively,” Farrugia said.

Vella, in turn said that “it is too simplistic to attribute the deterioration in income to the decline in trade union membership”.

“If anything, trade unions in Malta engage in collective bargaining and improve wages/salaries and other conditions of work. The local downward trends in wages and salaries are the result of the huge influx of low-skilled third country nationals without any forward planning, which unfortunately have pushed wages downwards and many low-income families into the risk of poverty,” Vella explained.

The GWU said that the situation in Malta regarding trade unions and income stagnation is somewhat distinct from the broader European context.

The spokesperson said that trade union density in Malta is still higher than in many other European countries.

“While there has been a general trend of declining union membership in Europe, Maltese unions have maintained a relatively strong presence in the labour market and continue to play significant roles in negotiations and labour relations,” the GWU said.

The GWU said that the relatively strong presence of trade unions, combined with robust economic growth and supportive government policies, has helped maintain wage growth and mitigate the extent of income stagnation for Maltese workers.

“However, ongoing monitoring of economic and labour market trends is essential to ensure these positive conditions continue,” it said.

The UĦM said that in Malta, membership in unions in recent years has been stable and gradually increasing.

“However, in the private sector, especially those areas which have experienced rapid growth, membership has not kept up the pace,” the UĦM said.

The UĦM spokesperson said that according to the latest annual report, issued by the Department of Employment and Industrial Relations, for every employer who is enrolled in an employer organisation, there are 11 workers who are members in a union.

“Given that this ratio does not mirror the actual total number of workers in the employment market to the total number of employers, it is clear that employers have understood more the importance of joining forces when compared with workers, who are relatively under-represented,” the UĦM said.

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Copy My Trip: Best things I did on a five-day Mediterranean break in Malta

Jul 20, 2023 • 6 min read

Writer Kerry Walker loved exploring the backstreets of Mdina on her recent trip to Malta © Kerry Walker

In search of a shot of sea and spring sunshine, Lonely Planet writer Kerry Walker headed to Malta and Gozo and fell hard for these twin islands in the Med. Here she shares the highlights of her trip.

With its one-of-a-kind history, cinematic cities built high and mighty by the Knights of St John, ravishing coastlines and distinctive cuisine embracing Italian and Middle Eastern influences, Malta grabbed me when I first visited 15 years ago - and I have longed to go back ever since. This time I managed to squeeze in a mini trip to neighboring Gozo , too.

If you're looking for a perfect time to visit Malta, it's spring with wildflowers blooming, beaches empty, room rates low, crowds virtually non-existent and temperatures hovering around 20°C. While the sea is still a bit nippy (unless you’re a cold-water fan), the mild days are perfect for other activities - from coastal hikes and runs to horse riding and kayaking, and just hanging out piazza-side in beautiful gold-stone cities.

Where did you stay? What was the vibe?

The Radisson Blu Resort in St Julian’s , where the crisply designed rooms in seaside blues and whites come with front-row views of the Mediterranean. It’s a nice central base for zipping around the island, just a 10-minute walk from St George’s Bay, where you’ll find a sandy beach and loads of nightlife, and a 20-minute ride from Valletta .

There are several pools, a gym, small spa and it’s right on the edge of the Pembroke Nature Reserve (perfect for morning runs). The breakfast buffet was a cut above, with freshly made pancakes and omelets, and I had a great risotto in the hotel's Le Bistro  restaurant, which bigs up locally farmed and fished ingredients.

Best way to start the day in Malta?

A morning run. There’s something special about getting up to see the pink blush of sunrise and slip into running gear as the first light creeps along the coast. At this early hour, it’s silent but for the gentle shush of waves. My go-to run is the Pembroke Nature Reserve in St Julian’s, where the rocky shore is a fragrant mass of wildflowers.

Otherwise, you’ll find me in Valletta, a gorgeous ochre-stone city of domes, Renaissance palazzi, piazzas, cobbled alleys and streets that rollercoaster down to the sea San Francisco-style. I love passing through Renzo Piano’s City Gate and strolling past townhouses graced with gallariji, ornate wooden balconies, as the city shakes off sleep and coffee pots begin to bubble.

I might go for a freshly roasted cup at retro-cool Lot 61 , followed by oven-warm pastizzi - flaky pastry pockets stuffed with ricotta or minced beef - at posh Caffe Cordina , in business since 1837. It’s right on the square opposite the lavish Grandmaster’s Palace, once the HQ of the Knights of St John.

What is a must-visit place in Malta?

Mdina . On a hilltop perch in the island’s heart, this fortified medieval town is film-set stuff. And it has had its moments of fame: Mdina Gate, with its stone bridge over the former city moat, and Mesquita Square, overshadowed by baroque St Paul's Cathedral , both appeared in Game of Thrones Season 1. But for me the real joy is nosing around its mazy alleys, past courtyard cafes and honey-hued palazzi.

The painterly light in these streets makes a photographer out of everyone. You can peel back the layers of the island’s history at the Domus Romana villa , with its Roman mosaics and marble statues, and swanning around the gardens that rim the sturdy bastions put up by the Knights of St John. Book a table for lunch in the gorgeous inner courtyard of The Medina , a 500-year-old Norman residence turned mezze-style restaurant. Stuffed vine leaves, local sweet red prawn carpaccio, slow-cooked confit pork belly - it’s all delicious.

The top spot for dinner in Malta?

OKA’s at the Villa in Balluta Bay really hits the romance mark, with its history, food and a pinch of glamour. This stunningly converted 19th-century palazzo has a terrace peering out across the bay, where you can sip a signature martini (blood-orange gin, amaretto honey, peach juice and smoke bubble) before dinner in the restaurant. The menu is refreshingly Mediterranean with a nod to the Middle East: labneh with crispy lamb, chilli oil and warm pitta, and octopus tagliatelle with preserved lemon and herbs.

If it’s a special occasion, score a table at Gracy’s in Valletta, a 17th-century palazzo reborn as a stylish supper club, with a terrace bar gazing out across the city rooftops. Tom Peters (former sous chef at three-Michelin-starred Maaemo in Oslo) mans the stove, putting a fresh British take on Maltese cuisine in dishes like turbot-and-scallop Wellington with baby leek and champagne beurre-blanc.

What is one place in Malta you want people to know about?

Golden Bay. The island’s more rugged northeast coast dispels the myth that Malta doesn’t have any beaches . Here you’ll find Golden Bay and - lovelier still - Riviera Beach, a glorious sweep of sand backed by cliffs. When I went in spring, the coast was very peaceful. If flopping on the beach isn’t your thing, you can trundle along the cliffs by Segway or saddle up at Golden Bay Horse Riding . I tried both and preferred the latter, relaxing into the rhythm of being on horseback as we trotted along the cliffs and through meadows flecked with poppies.

For an adventurous brush with Malta’s history, hook onto a self-guided electric buggy tour with Rolling Geeks . These dive into the Three Cities of Vittoriosa , Senglea and Cospicua, inhabited since Phoenician times, with fascinating snapshots of daily life in their back alleys and piazzas. Stop at the bastion-top Gardjola Gardens in Senglea for ringside views of Valletta’s Grand Harbour.

How can you get away from the crowds?

Go to Gozo. Just a half-hour ferry ride from Malta, this smaller, greener, quieter isle is an enticing taste of the Med before the dawn of tourism. The World Heritage Ġgantija Temples , older than Egypt’s pyramids, are a megalithic marvel and the island’s biggest crowd-puller, but if you want to dodge the masses, visit in very low season. The same can be said for Ċittadella , a crazily lovely hilltop citadel that was once the acropolis of the Punic-Roman city of Gaulos.

History aside, the island bombards you with natural beauty: the ragged, wave-beaten coast of Dwejra Bay is was pure drama even on a windy, overcast day, with its cliff-wrapped Inland Sea , Fungus Rock (a 60m-high pillar of limestone) and a shoreline mottled with sand dollar sea urchin fossils.

Or walk up to Tal-Mixta Cave, high above the red-gold sweep of Ramla Bay. The island’s dinky proportions mean you can explore a fair bit on foot or bike, but if you fancy going further, Gozo’s fleet of electric tuk-tuks offer insightful guided tours .

What's one thing you should bring back from Malta?

Ġbejna cheese. Malta’s pungent rounds of handmade sheep and goat’s cheese are famous and with good reason. Buy it fresh and its sweet and creamy, with a wobbly panna cotta consistency, but the sharply tangy, air-dried, wine-pickled variety travels better. In Gozo, buy it at Ta’ Rikardu , tucked in a backstreet behind the baroque cathedral in Ċittadella. While you’re there, pick up a bottle of the prickly pear liqueur they produce on their farm, too.

If there’s time, visit Gozo’s north-coast Xwejni Bay, where you’ll find a chequerboard of salt pans and a tiny rock-cut cave by the sea. Here Alfred Attard is just one of two people left on the island hand-harvesting sea salt according to millennia-old traditions. A bag of his incredibly pure salt makes a fabulous gift.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

‘Undiscovered gem’ country wants to rival Morocco — but tourists aren’t yet convinced

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You may not have considered holidaying in Algeria, but the North African country is hoping you won’t write it off just yet.

Just 3.3 million foreign tourists visited Algeria in 2023, an estimated 1.2 million of whom were Algerians from the disapora seeing their families.

Meanwhile, tourist-friendly Morocco welcomed 14.5 million – despite the fact it’s a smaller and less wealthy nation.

Algeria’s government is now looking to rival its neighbour, setting targets to increase numbers fourfold and attract 12 million tourists by 2030.

Saliha Nacerbay, general director of the National Tourism Office, said: ‘To achieve this, we, as the tourism and traditional industry sector, are seeking to encourage investments, provide facilities to investors, and build tourist and hotel facilities.’

Around 2,000 such projects have been approved, and restoration or expansion plans are also underway for 249 around the country.

But although it’s been described as an ‘undiscovered gem’ due to its gorgeous landscapes and rich culture, many travellers are still wary of Algeria – and for pretty good reason.

As well as safety concerns, issues like an inflexible visa system and poor transport links have been flagged by analysts, with French tourist Patrick Lebeau commenting: ‘Obviously, there is a lot of tourism potential, but much work still needs to be done to attract us.’

So what do you need to be aware of before taking a trip to Algeria, and why is it worth a spot on your list of up-and-coming destinations to try?

Why to visit Algeria

There’s a lot to love about Algeria, from a wealth of historicalsites to stunning beaches, mountains and Saharan desert.

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to natural beauty: sleep on sand dunes under the stars by night and sandboard by day, ride camels with Tuareg nomads, swim in the azure Mediterranean sea, or marvel at the Ghoufi Canyon, which is one of Algeria’s most stunning natural wonders.

It makes sense to start your trip in Algiers, exploring wonders like the UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the capital’s Kasbah citadel, as well as the Roman archieological site of Tipaza and the beautiful gardens in the nearby town of Blida.

Elsewhere, Constantine offers sights like the Emir Abdelkader Mosque and the Palace of Ahmed Bey, the Tassili N’Ajjer National Park is home to stunning rock formations and ancient rock art, and Oran features a wealth of beach spots and cultural events.

As Africa’s largest country, you aren’t short of things to see, and a flight from the UK only takes around three hours, so you don’t have to travel too far to do so.

Travel writer Richard Collett called Algeria ‘intoxicating’, and echoed the words Albert Camus wrote upon visiting Tipaza: ‘I understand here what we call glory: the right to love without measure.’

High praise indeed.

Things to consider before visiting Algeria

Despite its many wonders and the effort being taken to make it more agreeable among tourists, there are still some barriers to travel in Algeria .

The FCDO currently advises against travel within 30km of Algeria’s borders with Libya, Mauritania, Mali, Niger and Tunisia , as there is a high risk of terrorism or kidnap of British nationals in these areas.

You also need to apply for a Visa at the Algerian consulate in the UK before you can enter the country, although certain tour operators will handle this for you as part of a travel package.

There are a number of other benefits to visiting Algeria with a reputable company’s guidance: they can ensure you’re provided with security escorts where necessary and help keep you safe in busy spots like the Algiers Kasbah.

According to the government website, ‘driving can be erratic’ so pedestrians should ‘take particular care when crossing roads on foot, even where there is a signal allowing you to do so.’  

You should also be aware and respectful of the fact that Algeria is a largely Muslim country, which means dressing and acting in accordance with local customs and not being under the influence of alcohol in public places (which is illegal). 

Your Daily Horoscope

What does the week have in store? Your tarot horoscope reading for June 10 to June 16

It’s certainly not a standard sun holiday, but if you abide by the rules and take necessary precautions, it could end up being the trip of a lifetime.

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