Malta Travel Guide Tips: How to Make the Most of the Island

Malta has been described by many travelers as a hidden treasure, but for me it became something even more special: my travel find of the year. This Mediterranean island isn’t completely untouched by tourism, yet it remains far from overcrowded. What makes it unique is the balance—it offers golden beaches for sun seekers and centuries of history for culture lovers. Or, in the words of a recent visitor, “Malta basically meets the needs of the beach lovers, culture seekers and those like me that need a little bit of both.”

The first decision to make before setting foot in Malta is how you’re going to move around. The island is compact, which makes traveling from one place to another simple, but choosing the right transport changes everything. Public buses are, as one traveler put it, “incredible, regular and take you to any part of the island.” That said, a rental car saves time, particularly on short trips, and makes it easier to reach quieter corners. Driving is straightforward, and the distances are short enough that even a single day can cover a lot. If you decide to rent, DiscoverCars is a reliable booking site, while airport transfers are easy with WelcomePickups.

Tours are another way to explore Malta’s treasures, and they cover everything from history to beaches. Popular choices include a three-hour walking tour of Valletta, a full-day Gozo jeep tour with lunch and a boat ride, or excursions to the prehistoric temples. Others combine highlights, such as Mdina and Valletta in a day, or take you to Marsaxlokk, the Blue Grotto, and Qrendi. The variety ensures that you can match your itinerary to your curiosity.

Where you stay depends on both budget and transport. Valletta is convenient if you rely on buses, while those with a car can choose freely across the island. For inspiration, browsing hotels in Malta can give you a sense of locations that suit your plans. For luxury, The Phoenicia Malta in Valletta, AX The Palace in Sliema, and the Intercontinental in St Julian’s Bay are the most popular. Travelers with a mid-range budget can try Palazzo Paolina Boutique Hotel in Valletta or Palazzo Violetta in Sliema. Staying connected is simple with an eSIM from Sim Local (use code TRAVELWITHPAU for a discount), and for peace of mind, many recommend World Nomads travel insurance, which covers over 150 activities.

Malta is small but bursting with experiences, so a bucket list helps. Start with Mdina, the former capital that today counts fewer than 300 inhabitants. Its walls and narrow alleys make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The best hour to go is around two in the afternoon, when most visitors are at the beach.

For color, head south to Marsaxlokk, a fishing village famous for its bright wooden boats and fresh seafood restaurants. Close by is St Peter’s Pool, a natural swimming spot perfect for diving and sunbathing. Another unmissable place is the Blue Lagoon, whose “crystalline, azure and luscious waters” easily justify at least half a day.

Gozo, Malta’s smaller sister island, deserves more than just a day trip. Even though its iconic Azure Window collapsed in 2017, attractions remain plentiful. Victoria, also known as Rabat, with its Citadel, is the starting point, while Ġgantija temple and the Blue Hole draw both history fans and scuba divers.

Back on the main island, Valletta enchants with its balconies, cobbled streets, and quirky shops. Island cruises are also popular, though many travelers warn that speedboat add-ons “are not worth it.” The Three Cities—Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua—offer medieval charm without crowds, while the Barraka Gardens provide panoramic views over the Grand Harbour.

Food is essential to understanding Malta. The pastizz, a flaky pastry filled with ricotta or peas, is iconic, and Crystal Palace is the spot for vegan versions. Traditional dishes such as rabbit stew (fenek), ftira sandwiches, lampuki pie, and ġbejna cheese reflect influences from Italy, Britain, and North Africa. Pair them with a cold Cisk beer, the local brew, or finish your meal with kanoli or imqaret, date-filled pastries.

For travelers who like a quick glance, here’s a comparison of Malta’s essential attractions:

Some sites highlight Malta’s unique heritage. The Mnajdra and Ħaġar Qim temples date back to 3600 BC and are only 500 meters apart. Popeye’s Village, built in 1979 for the 1980 musical film, is now a family attraction. St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, constructed in the late 16th century, shows the wealth of the Knights of St John. The Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, an underground burial site dating back to 4000–2500 BC, is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. And the Mosta Dome, one of the world’s largest, famously survived a World War II bombing when a bomb fell through its roof and did not explode—a story Maltese people call a miracle.

Nature adds its own wonders. The Blue Grotto consists of seven sea caves where sunlight turns the water intense shades of blue. Evening in St Julian’s Bay, with dinner and a quiet stroll, is the perfect way to slow the pace.

Practical questions are easy to answer. The best seasons to visit are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is warm but the crowds smaller. A four- or five-day stay allows you to see the highlights, though a week gives time for beaches and side trips. Malta uses the euro, and while credit cards are common, it is wise to carry cash in small towns. The country is relatively affordable compared to other European destinations.

Languages are not a barrier: Maltese and English are official, and Italian is widely spoken. Safety is another advantage—Malta is “very safe for tourists,” though basic precautions are always recommended. Reaching the island is simple via Malta International Airport, and ferries from Sicily provide another entry point. Finally, pack light clothes for the heat, comfortable shoes for cobbled streets, and swimwear for those unforgettable bays.

To wrap up, here’s a simple plan for first-time visitors:

1. Spend your first day in Valletta and the Barraka Gardens.
   
   
2. Dedicate a day to Mdina and the Three Cities.
   
   
3. Take a ferry or tour to the Blue Lagoon.
   
   
4. Reserve at least one day for Gozo.
   
   
5. Leave time for food, beaches, and an evening in St Julian’s Bay.
   
   

This mix ensures you experience both the cultural and natural sides of Malta. The island may be small, but it is layered with history, charm, and enough adventure to fill every day. For me, it remains the ultimate Mediterranean surprise, a place where you can eat pastizzi in the morning, explore temples older than the pyramids in the afternoon, and watch the sunset over the sea at night.