malta

What are the most recommended things to do in malta?

  • Explore Valletta, Malta’s capital, including St. John’s Co-Cathedral and Upper Barrakka Gardens
  • Visit Mdina, the silent medieval city
  • Relax at Blue Lagoon on Comino Island for swimming and snorkeling
  • Discover historic sites like the Hypogeum and Tarxien Temples
  • Tour the Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua
  • Enjoy water sports and diving along the Maltese coast
  • Take a ferry to Gozo Island and visit Ġgantija Temples and Ramla Bay
  • Experience local cuisine and wine at restaurants and market stalls

Introducing Malta

The Republic of Malta, abbreviated as Malta, is a republican microstate located in Southern Europe. It is an island nation in the heart of the Mediterranean, known as the "Heart of the Mediterranean" and the "Village of Europe." Maltese and English are the official languages, and its capital is Valletta. Most residents are Catholic, with smaller numbers practicing Protestantism and Eastern Orthodoxy. The cornflower is Malta's national flower. Native to Europe, it was originally a wild flower, but through years of cultivation, its "wildness" has diminished, its flowers have become larger, and its colors have become more diverse. Varieties include purple, blue, light red, and white, with purple and blue being the most prized.

Climate and best time to travel

Best in Spring and Autumn

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Gozo

Gozo, Malta's second-largest island, is located northwest of Malta, measuring 14 kilometers long and 7 kilometers wide. Its vast fields and beautiful scenery are home to the fruits and vegetables that Malta needs, earning it the nickname "Malta's Garden." The people are simple and welcoming, with farming and fishing being their primary occupations. For those living in Malta, Gozo offers a peaceful escape during their holidays.

The island is relatively isolated, thus preserving much of its natural beauty and cultural landscape. With numerous mountain paths, tree-lined streets, numerous historical sites, and scattered pastoral areas, it offers a tranquil rural atmosphere and is a popular holiday and leisure destination for Maltese and foreigners alike.


Comino

The smallest of Malta's three main islands, it has a population of just eight and is now a nature reserve. With only one hotel, the tranquility is untouched by the clamor of modern life, including cars and shopping malls. Relaxation and exercise are the only regular activities.

Comino has a great geographical location. The island's beaches, boulders and clear waters make it suitable for all forms of water sports, especially snorkeling and diving.


Recommended play time: 2-3 days


Most Popular FAQs for malta

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Malta is a Mediterranean archipelago with a history spanning thousands of years, influenced by Phoenicians, Romans, Knights of St. John, French, and British. It is significant for its strategic location, prehistoric temples, and UNESCO World Heritage sites, reflecting its rich cultural heritage.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Malta is located in the central Mediterranean Sea. Entry is via Malta International Airport near Luqa. Travel around Malta is by buses, taxis, car rentals, or walking in historic cities. Ferries connect Malta to Gozo and Comino.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

  • Most attractions: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Blue Lagoon: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Best time to visit: spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) for mild weather and fewer crowds

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

  • St. John’s Co-Cathedral: approx. €10, tickets online or at entrance
  • Hypogeum: €35, advance booking online required
  • Mdina: Free to enter; some attractions inside have small fees
  • Blue Lagoon: Ferry €10–€15, tickets online or on-site

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Yes, for popular sites like the Hypogeum, book at least 1–2 months in advance. Other attractions can often be booked a few days ahead.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

5–7 days, including Malta, Gozo, and Comino to cover major historical, cultural, and natural attractions.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Valletta: St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Grandmaster’s Palace, Upper Barrakka Gardens
  • Mdina: Cathedral and medieval streets
  • Blue Lagoon, Comino
  • Hypogeum and Tarxien Temples
  • Three Cities and Fort St. Angelo
  • Gozo: Ġgantija Temples, Ramla Bay, Citadel

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Yes, guided tours and audio guides are available in English, Italian, French, and German at most major sites and museums.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Upper Barrakka Gardens, Valletta
  • Mdina bastions
  • Blue Lagoon from the ferry or cliffs
  • Fort St. Angelo and harbor views
  • Ramla Bay, Gozo

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

  • Day 1: Valletta highlights and harbor views
  • Day 2: Mdina and Rabat
  • Day 3: Three Cities and Fort St. Angelo
  • Day 4: Blue Lagoon and Comino
  • Day 5: Gozo – Ġgantija Temples, Ramla Bay, Citadel
  • Day 6: Leisure, beaches, and diving/snorkeling

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Yes, some museums and Valletta attractions offer evening tours. Seasonal festivals feature lights and cultural events, especially during summer.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Peak season: June–August. Least crowded: April–May and September–October. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

  • Restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores throughout cities
  • Public toilets near main tourist sites
  • Souvenir and craft shops in Valletta, Mdina, and Gozo

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most main cities and attractions are accessible. Some historical sites and cliffs have limited wheelchair access.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Credit/debit cards and mobile payments are widely accepted; small cash is useful for ferries, markets, and small vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • Rampila – Valletta fine dining
  • Ta’ Kris – traditional Maltese cuisine
  • Blue Lagoon Café – Comino
  • Gugar – Mdina café and bistro

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available. Halal food is limited but present in Valletta and Sliema.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Corinthia Hotel St. George’s Bay – St. Julian’s
  • Grand Hotel Excelsior – Valletta
  • Hotel Mgarr Gozo – Gozo Island
  • Various boutique hotels and guesthouses across Malta

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Gozo Island, including Ġgantija Temples and Ramla Bay
  • Comino and Blue Lagoon
  • Three Cities and Fort St. Angelo
  • Marsaxlokk fishing village

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

  • Filigree jewelry and crafts
  • Local wines and olive oil
  • Handmade lace and ceramics
  • Postcards, magnets, and Maltese crosses

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • Ferries to Sicily, Italy
  • Domestic buses or taxis to explore other parts of Malta and Gozo
  • Car rentals for flexible travel across islands

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