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1. Private Boat Trip
Without a doubt this was one of the absolute highlights of my trip! We booked a full day private boat tour and it was the best way to see Malta’s hidden gems. The tour takes you around some of the island’s most stunning spots, including the Blue Lagoon, Comino, and Gozo. You can swim, snorkel or just lie back on deck soaking up the Mediterranean sun with a drink in hand.
What I loved most was how relaxed it felt as we weren’t rushing around or fighting crowds, just enjoying clear turquoise water and quiet coves that you can only reach by boat. This acticvity is perfect if you’re celebrating a hen do or just want to make the most of your girls trip as it’s such a memorable experience and worth every penny.
2. Blue Lagoon
You’ve probably seen photos of the Blue Lagoon, and yes I can confirm that it really is that blue in person! It’s located on Comino Island and is Malta’s most famous swimming spot and one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. The white sandy seabed makes the water almost glow, and you can easily spend hours here floating, swimming or just relaxing by the shore.
When you go make sure you treat yourself to one of the famous pineapple cocktails, they cost around €10 and are honestly too good to skip. My top tip – try to arrive early before the big tour boats arrive, so you can enjoy the lagoon while it’s still peaceful.
3. Gozo
Gozo is Malta’s smaller, quieter sister island and it completely stole my heart. It’s just a 25 minute ferry ride from Malta but it feels worlds away. Think green hills, sleepy villages and unspoiled beaches. Gozo is perfect for a day trip if you want to see a different side of Malta.
Make sure you visit the Ġgantija Temples, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and actually older than the Egyptian pyramids which is mind blowing to think about how long they’ve been standing. The island also has some lovely seaside spots like Xlendi Bay and Marsalforn, where you can enjoy fresh seafood with a sea view.
4. Valetta
The capital city of Malta, Valletta is packed with history, charm and some of the best views in Malta. The city’s streets are full of character, just imagine colourful balconies, limestone buildings and cozy cafes tucked into corners. It’s compact enough to explore on foot but filled with incredible landmarks like St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.
One of my favourite parts of the city was the Grand Harbour view as it’s the kind of place where you can just sit for a while and take it all in. If you’re visiting Malta for the first time, Valletta is a brilliant place to stay as it’s central, walkable and packed with great restaurants and boutique hotels.
5. 33 Steps Street
If you’re anything like me and love a good photo spot, then 33 Steps Street in Valletta is one to add straight to your list. This hidden alley is lined with colourful doors, potted plants, and hanging flowers making it one of the most picturesque streets in Malta.
As you climb up you’ll find a few cozy bars and restaurants tucked along the steps, which are perfect for an evening drink as the sun sets. It’s got a relaxed and local feel, and even though it’s right in the city it feels peaceful and authentic.
6. Saluting Battery
Located right by the Upper Barrakka Gardens, the Saluting Battery is one of Valletta’s most fascinating historic sites. Every day at 12 PM and 4 PM, you can watch the ceremonial firing of the cannons which is a tradition that dates back centuries. It’s such a unique experience and gives you a glimpse into Malta’s military past.
You also get some of the best views of the Grand Harbour from here, especially if you arrive early and grab a front row spot. If you’re interested in history, guided tours are available and are well worth doing to understand how the battery was used to defend the island.
7. Upper Barrakka Gardens
These gardens sit right above the Saluting Battery and are one of Valletta’s prettiest spots. The Upper Barrakka Gardens offer panoramic views across the harbour and are filled with fountains, statues and shady areas where you can sit and relax.
I loved coming here in the afternoon with a coffee to just enjoy the view and people watch. The gardens are free to enter and open every day, making them a perfect little escape from the busier parts of the city.
8. St. John’s Co-Cathedral
This cathedral completely blew me away! From the outside it looks fairly simple, but once you step inside it’s breathtaking. The baroque interior is covered in gold details, intricate carvings and marble floors that are actually tombstones of the Knights of St. John.
The real showstopper is Caravaggio’s masterpiece, The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist, displayed in the Oratory. Tickets cost €15 for adults, €12 for seniors and students and children under 12 go free. Make sure to dress respectfully and give yourself time to really take it all in as every corner is a work of art.
9. St. Julian’s
If you’re after good food, cocktails and a bit of nightlife, St. Julian’s is the place to go. The area has a mix of restaurants, bars and clubs to suit every mood, and the waterfront views make it even better. One of my favourite spots was NAAR Restobar, a stylish seafront venue with delicious cocktails and the best sunset views over Spinola Bay.
During the day you can enjoy the beach at St. George’s Bay, a Blue Flag spot perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It’s a great balance between relaxing by the water during the day and heading out for drinks in the evening.
10. Popeye Village
Originally built as a film set for the 1980 Popeye movie, this colourful village has since become one of Malta’s most unique attractions. It’s full of quirky wooden houses and surrounded by the gorgeous turquoise waters of Anchor Bay.
You can walk through the village, take photos, see live shows and even take a short boat trip around the bay for a different view. It’s a fun, light hearted spot that’s great for all ages and surprisingly beautiful in person.
11. Mdina
Known as “The Silent City”, Mdina is a must visit. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Malta as it’s quiet, atmospheric and full of history. The narrow streets lined with centuries old palaces give it a fairytale feel. The Mdina Gate is an iconic photo spot (and you might recognise it from Game of Thrones).
There are also plenty of lovely cafes inside the city walls and Fontanella Tea Garden is one of the best, known for its cakes and panoramic views. Come here if you want a slower pace, explore on foot and soak in the charm feel of this timeless town.
Thank you for reading and I hope you found this guide on the best things to do in Malta useful for planning your own trip. I’ve also create a full guide to Malta, which includes where to stay as well as the best places to eat, make sure you check it out! Be sure to save this guide for later and use it to help shape your itinerary when you’re ready to book your Malta adventure.
