20 Of The Best Things You Can’t Miss In Malta

2. Visit the Co-Cathedral of St. John

Valletta’s main attraction is the St. John’s Co-Cathedral, founded in 1571 and completed six years later. Initially, the church had minimal decoration, but by the late 16th century, it became one of the most elaborately decorated churches.

To enhance your experience, consider taking an audio guide. First, you’ll pass by eight chapels, each dedicated to one of the languages of the Order. Next, the marble floor features the tombs of the Knights and priests. 

Finally, make your way to the famous artwork by Caravaggio, “Beheading of Saint John the Baptist,“ known for its dramatic use of light and shadow. This iconic artwork is a major draw for visitors from around the world, and it’s easy to see why. Its striking imagery and emotional depth make it one of the best things you can’t miss in Malta.

3. Explore Comino Island

Visiting Comino Island on a boat trip is one of the things you can’t miss in Malta. 

Blue Lagoon, Comino’s main attraction, is a gorgeous bay with crystal clear waters. It’s the only place in Malta where you will find this color and clarity of the water, so it’s no wonder it became a famous spot. Anyone who loves swimming in crystal clear water, snorkeling, or lazing in the sun should visit the beautiful Blue Lagoon.

Across Blue Lagoon is Cominotto islet, a slight stretch of sandy beach. You can swim to Cominotto or take a shuttle service from Blue Lagoon for a small fee. Once there, you can lie in the sun, swim, relax, or climb the cliffs. 

If you are not interested in spending the whole time at the beach, a 7-kilometer pathway will keep you occupied for the rest of the day. You can explore the trails along the cliffs, discover the island’s interior and find the abandoned buildings or the St. Mary’s Tower.

Discover Malta’s two smaller islands, Gozo and Comino, on a full-day boat tour. Find out more HERE.

If you want to find out more about Comino Island, read my complete article: THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN COMINO

4. Learn about the miracle of Malta 

Visiting the Mosta Rotunda is one of the best things you can’t miss in Malta due to its unique and emotional history, unlike any other church on the island.

During World War II, Malta was one of the most bombed countries on the planet. On April 9th, 1942, a 500 kg bomb hit the church’s dome and landed indoors. At that time, more than 300 people were inside the church for a mass. Fortunately and surprisingly, the bomb didn’t explode. While some parishioners fled, others chose to stay and pray with deep faith for the miraculous moment! Today, the Church of the Assumption of Our Lady is celebrated for its wonder and continues to attract many tourists.

What makes this church so unique? The spherical shape, the gorgeous 37-meter dome, the baby blue walls, and the Jesus paintings. While touring the church, stop for a short movie introducing the events and head to the bomb’s replica.

TIP. I would recommend buying the full tickets so you will get the chance to climb the 74 stairs to the dome, admire the views from the roof and visit the air-raid shelter where people gathered during the Italian bombing campaign—entrance just outside the church.

5. Discover The Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua

The Three Cities—Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua—are three historic towns located in the southeastern part of Malta, right across the Grand Harbour from the capital, Valletta. Together, they form part of the area known as the Cottonera Lines, named after the Italian engineer Francesco del Cottonera, who worked on the fortifications in the 17th century.

These towns are rich in history, particularly from the time of the Knights of St. John and the Great Siege of 1565, and they played a pivotal role in Malta’s defense.

Vittoriosa is the oldest and most historically significant of the Three Cities. Its name, meaning “Victory,” commemorates the successful defense of the island during the Great Siege of 1565. It was the first city to be fortified by the Knights of St. John after their arrival in Malta.

Senglea, also known as Isla, is the second of the Three Cities. It was named after the Grand Master Claude de la Sengle, who oversaw the construction of the fortifications during the period of the Knights. Senglea’s location on a narrow peninsula between the Grand Harbour and the Dockyard Creek made it a strategic defensive position.

Cospicua, or Bormla, is the largest of the Three Cities. It was historically a bustling commercial and industrial center, as well as a major naval base. Cospicua’s harbor was vital to Malta’s defense and economy.

Enjoy a 90-minute scenic cruise and admire the busy dockyards, marinas, and bastions. Find out more about this popular trip HERE.

6. Relax at Ramla Bay

Advertised as one of the best beaches in the Mediterranean, well, that’s arguable. But Ramla Bay is one of Malta’s most famous and scenic beaches, located on Gozo’s northern coast. It is particularly renowned for its red sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning natural surroundings. The bay offers a blend of natural beauty, historical interest, and a tranquil atmosphere, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

The red sand strike has charm, mainly when not packed with locals or tourists.

Ramla Bay is excellent for swimming and snorkeling, as the water is relatively calm and the visibility is excellent.

A short walk from the beach is the Calypso Cave, which overlooks the bay. According to Greek mythology, this is the cave where Calypso, the nymph, is said to have kept the Greek hero Odysseus captive for several years. The cave offers fantastic views of the bay and surrounding area and adds a layer of mythological charm to the beach visit.

The bay does not have large hotels or resorts, but there is a nice restaurant that serves delicious food. If you love eating fish, try the fish of the day, usually Lampuki (the Maltese name for bream).

The weather wasn’t so appealing but still great for a swim!

7. Book the Malta Experience show

One of the things you can’t miss in Malta is a multimedia show that provides an excellent overview of Malta’s history, from ancient times to the modern day. 

The show is a 45-minute presentation that uses a combination of narration, sound effects, music, and images to bring Malta’s history to life. It covers the island’s strategic importance throughout history, its occupation by various powers, and its cultural evolution.

The Malta Experience is located in the St. Elmo Bastion in Valletta, which itself is a historically significant site. The venue offers spectacular views of the surrounding Grand Harbour, making it a great place to start exploring the capital city of Valletta.

Whether you’re a history buff or a first-time visitor, it’s the perfect place to gain a deeper understanding of the forces that shaped Malta into the unique and vibrant country it is today.

Book your Malta Experience entry ticket HERE.

8. Ta’Pinu Sanctuary

On the islands of Malta, there are 365 churches, one for every day of the year. Every city and village in Malta has at least one church that overlooks the skyline. With a density of one church per square kilometer, it is hard to decide which one to visit. 

We visited many churches during our road-tripping through Malta, but two impressed us the most: The Church of the Assumption of Our Lady in Mosta in Malta and Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary in Gozo.

The Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary is one of the most significant and visited religious sites in Gozo, the sister island of Malta. Located in the village of Għarb, the sanctuary is not only a place of spiritual importance but also an architectural and cultural landmark. It’s renowned for its beautiful setting, its miraculous history, and its role as a pilgrimage site.

The story behind the sanctuary’s fame began in 1883 when a local woman admitted to hearing the voice of the Virgin Mary while she was praying in the chapel.

Soon after, the chapel became associated with miraculous events, with many claiming healing and spiritual favors.

Over the years, the devotion to the Virgin Mary at Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary grew, and it became a major site of pilgrimage for both locals and visitors. The church was eventually elevated to the status of a Basilica in 1967 by Pope Paul VI.

As soon as you approach the church, you will be amazed by the 14 huge hand-crafted mosaics portraying the Cross’s Stations. After taking some lovely photos of the exterior, walk inside and admire the interior as well. The Icon of Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu is one of the most venerated relics in the church. It is believed to have miraculous powers and is the subject of deep devotion.

9. Relax at Riviera Beach

For many travelers, the main reason for visiting Malta is to relax and enjoy the beach. While limestone cliffs mostly surround the shores, there are some beautiful sandy beaches where you can rest in the sun and relax all day.

Riviera Beach, located on the northern coast of Malta, is one of the island’s most beautiful and serene beaches, offering stunning natural beauty. It is known for its golden sandy shore, which contrasts beautifully with the turquoise waters. The beach’s setting in a secluded bay surrounded by cliffs adds to its charm. 

I have to be honest: Riviera Beach is my favorite beach in Malta. Yes, it is crowded, yes, it is busy, but the panoramic views are amazing. The limestone cliffs surrounding this bay are impressive, with no buildings obstructing the views.

You’ll have to descend a set of steep stairs to the beach, but once there, you’ll discover enough space to find a cozy spot. The entrance into the crystal-clear water is smooth, so you can leave the water shoes behind. There is also a restaurant serving different kinds of dishes and drinks.

The views from above are stunning! Taking photos from this spot is one of the best things you can’t miss in Malta!

10. Get lost in Mdina

If Valetta is overcrowded and you want to explore the quieter side of life, head to Mdina, Malta’s capital in the Middle Ages. With more than 4,000 years of history, Mdina, or Silent City, is a peaceful fortress where you can get lost in the maze-like alleys.

The fort has only 300 residents, and only a few cars are allowed to drive inside. Strolling the narrow, winding streets of this fortified city is one of the things you can’t miss in Malta!

One of the main attractions is St. Paul’s Cathedral, the oldest church in the country, where you can admire the fantastic architecture and gorgeous paintings.

Another highlight you can’t miss is the Mdina Dungeons.

The dungeons provide insight into the harsh conditions that prisoners endured during the medieval and early modern periods in Malta. The focus is largely on the Inquisition era (16th-18th centuries), when accusations of heresy, witchcraft, and blasphemy were treated severely.

The city’s location offers magnificent views over the island. It’s a peaceful, atmospheric place to explore, with charming cafes and shops. While strolling the sleepy streets, stop at Fiori di Latte for a sweet treat. Enjoy the ice cream while admiring the views over the island from the top of the bastions.

If you’re into discovering more from a local perspective, consider joining a guided 2.5-hour walking tour. Find out more about this tour HERE.

11. Have fun at Popeye Village

Popeye Village was originally a film set for the musical “Popeye” in 1980 and has since been transformed into an attraction park. It features colorful wooden buildings, entertainment shows, rides, games, and food stalls.

Visiting the Popeye Village is one of the things you can’t miss in Malta, especially if you are traveling with children. If you want to spend a day at the beach, you can do so here as the water is crystal clear and tranquil.

The iconic Popeye, Olive Oyl, and other characters from the cartoon make regular appearances, allowing visitors to take photos and interact with them.

The village offers boat tours of the scenic Anchor Bay and the surrounding coast, which are a fun way to explore the area while enjoying the natural beauty of the island.

If you’d instead not visit the park, you can still enjoy a beautiful view of the village from a spot just outside of town. This area is easily accessible by car. Popeye Village is located near Cirkewwa, where the ferry to Gozo departs. You can stop by on your way to or from Gozo Island.

Book your entry ticket HERE.

12. Discover Gozo on a day trip

Gozo, the second-largest island in the Maltese archipelago, offers a variety of activities and attractions, ranging from historical sites to natural beauty. While smaller than Malta, Gozo is rich in culture, history, and stunning landscapes, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or a longer stay.

I fell in love with Gozo during our visit, and that’s why I advise you to rent a car and explore this beautiful island on your own. So you will have the chance to see almost everything Gozo offers at your own pace. The island has a more tranquil vibe, shorter distances, and looser traffic. 

Start your day with a generous breakfast and a delicious coffee at one of the terraces in Independence Square, just near the Citadel entrance. 

Victoria, the capital of Gozo, was named in honor of Queen Victoria of England in 1887. As the locals call it, Rabat is a vibrant small town with narrow streets housing many restaurants and Gozitan handicraft shops. Stroll the streets of the Citadel and admire the views from the walls. Take your time, indulge in the silence of this gorgeous Citadel, and admire the views from the walls!

Drive to Ta Pinu Sanctuary, located just outside the Gharb Village, in spectacular countryside with nothing else around.

If you want to learn more about the Gozitans’ handicrafts, you should definitely stop at Ta’Dbiegi Craft Village.

Go on a boat ride at the Blue Grotto, snorkel at Wied il-Ghasri or relax at Ramla Bay‘s sandy beach. Bring your goggles and explore the area!

Joining a guided tour is one of the best things you can’t miss in Malta if you don’t want to worry about the itinerary. Find out more about this full-day Gozo trip HERE. 

13. Go on a boat ride

It might sound like cliches, but going on a boat ride and discovering the blue caves is one of the things you can’t miss in Malta—my favorite spot is the Blue Grotto of Gozo, which is less known and less touristy.

Gozo was well known for its famous arch structure, Azure Window, for many years. Unfortunately, the arch crashed during a harsh storm on March 8th, 2017. Still, many choose to come and see where the famous window once was and go on a boat ride.

Next to the fallen Azure Window, you will bump into a small bay offering access to the sea through a tiny cave opening. For a small fee, the boatman will take you on a 15-minute boat ride to see the lagoon’s crystal clear water, the corals and the jellyfish, the limestone cliffs, the fallen Azure Window, and interesting rock formations.

TIP. There are souvenir shops and eateries if you want to buy handicrafts or have a cold drink.

If you don’t plan a visit to Gozo Island, you can still go on a boat ride at Blue Grotto of Malta, a highly visited spot due to the grotto system, which can be accessed only by boat.

Stop at the designated area for a panoramic catch of the cave system before heading down to the boat ramp. Boat rides last 20 minutes and are available daily, depending on the weather, from 09:00 to 17:00 in summer and from 09:00 to 15:30 in winter.

14. Discover Victoria’s Citadel

The ancient fortified town is Gozo’s main attraction and a must for anyone interested in historic sites. A walk along the city walls offers beautiful panoramic views over Rabat and its surroundings. So take your time, stroll around, and bask in the serene silence of the place.

The entrance is free, but you will have to pay a small fee to visit the inside museums. The Citadel can be accessed through a modern glass elevator. Parking is easy, just outside the Citadel, but you will pay a small amount to the parking attendant.

15. Visit St. Paul’s Catacombs 

St. Paul’s Catacombs are one of Malta’s most important archaeological and historical sites, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into early Christian life and burial practices. Located in Rabat, just outside the ancient capital city of Mdina, these catacombs are among the best-preserved examples of early Christian underground burial sites in the Mediterranean.

The catacombs are believed to date back to the 3rd and 4th centuries AD, and they are named after St. Paul, the apostle who, according to Christian tradition, was shipwrecked on the island of Malta in 60 AD.

Those served as burial sites for the early Christians, who practiced burial rather than cremation. The catacombs are made up of a complex network of underground tunnels, chambers, and tombs, many of which still contain relics of early Christian rituals.

You can explore the catacombs independently or take a guided tour for a more in-depth experience.

Whether you are a history enthusiast or a lover of archaeology, visiting St. Paul’s Catacombs is one of the things you can’t miss in Malta.

16. Get a sneak pick of the Salt Pans

The salt pans in Malta have been used for centuries, and the practice of salt harvesting is deeply rooted in the island’s history. 

In earlier times, the salt pans were an essential source of income for many families in coastal villages. In some periods, salt was even used as a form of currency.

Maltese sea salt was essential, as it was used for preserving food, especially fish and meat.

Visiting a salt pans system is another lovely thing you can’t miss in Malta. The salt pans are located in some of the most beautiful and picturesque spots: Marsalforn in Gozo and Marsaskala in Malta.

You can notice locals working manually and scratching for crystals during summer. The 350-year-old salt pans are gorgeous and attract many visitors year-round. Stop along the coast as often as you want and take plenty of photos.

You can purchase Maltese sea salt directly from the local harvesters or shops. The salt is often available in different varieties, including flavored salts, making it a great souvenir to take home. 

17. Discover Marsaxlokk

Marsaxlokk is a charming and picturesque fishing village located on the southeastern coast of Malta, just a short drive from the capital city Valletta. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, traditional fishing culture, and beautiful harbor, Marsaxlokk offers visitors a taste of local life and a chance to explore Malta’s maritime heritage.

The village is centered around Marsaxlokk Harbour, where you’ll find colorful traditional fishing boats known as Luzzus. These boats are typically painted in bright colors, including blue, yellow, and red, and feature the characteristic eye of Osiris painted on the bow for protection. It’s one of the most photographed scenes in Malta, as the boats sway gently in the harbor with the stunning backdrop of the Mediterranean.

One of the main draws to Marsaxlokk is its famous Sunday fish market. The market takes place along the waterfront and is filled with fresh catches of the day, offering a wide variety of local fish such as Lampuki (Mahi-Mahi), swordfish, and octopus. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience local life and pick up some fresh produce or handmade goods.

Marsaxlokk is renowned for its seafood restaurants, many of which line the waterfront, offering both fresh fish and stunning views of the harbor. Dining here is a relaxed experience, where you can enjoy local specialties while watching the fishermen bring in their catch.

18. Jump into the water at Peter’s Pool

Located just a short walk or drive from Marsaxlokk, St. Peter’s Pool is a natural swimming area that is considered one of the best-hidden gems in Malta. It’s a small inlet with crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. 

The journey to St. Peter’s Pool, while not the smoothest, is certainly manageable. Just follow the signs, and you’ll arrive at a designated parking lot. For a small fee, you can park your car and enjoy your time at the pool.

There are flat rocks around the pool where you can relax or jump into the water.

For thrill-seekers, St. Peter’s Pool is famous for its cliff-jumping spots. The height of the cliffs ranges from about 2 to 5 meters, and the clear, deep waters below make for a fun and safe place to jump.

It’s a relatively quiet spot compared to the more popular beaches, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy the Mediterranean Sea in a peaceful, scenic setting.

If you’re already in the area, make sure to stop at Dingli Cliffs. It’s a popular spot where you can enjoy a magnificent view over the blue waters! 

19. Stroll the St. Julian’s and Sliema Promenade

St. Julian’s and Sliema are two popular tourist spots in Malta, north of Valletta. The towns are considered Malta’s life hub, providing a huge diversity of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. The best way to understand these places is by taking a stroll along the promenade that connects them. The walk along the shore is enjoyable and vibrant and is definitely another thing you can’t can’t miss in Malta.

The walk will take you to Balluta Bay, where you’ll see locals and tourists taking a swim at the tiny beach. Nearby is the famous historical architecture Balluta Building and the gorgeous Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.

You’ll find many restaurants, coffeehouses, and bars at Spinola Bay. If you want to stop, the options are endless: from Maltese restaurants to Italian and Asian cuisine, from Turkish to Balkans cuisine.

If you want to relax for a while, grab an ice cream and rest on a bench at Independence Gardens, one of Sliema’s best parks.

20. Eat like a local

Eating like a local in Malta is a delightful experience, filled with a rich blend of Mediterranean flavors, fresh ingredients, and time-honored traditions. Maltese cuisine has been shaped by centuries of diverse cultural influences, including Arabic, Italian, British, and Sicilian traditions, but it has its own distinct identity that reflects the island’s history and resources. 

Pubs are trendy places among locals and visitors from abroad. You’ll find many places like this, and usually, the food selection is fresh and delicious!

Here’s a guide to help you eat like a local in Malta:

Ftira is a traditional Maltese flatbread that resembles a pizza but is often more rustic and thicker. It can be served with various toppings.

Fenek is one of the most iconic Maltese dishes, consisting of rabbit stew cooked in a rich sauce made of wine, garlic, onions, and herbs. It’s served with roast potatoes or fried vegetables.

Lampuki (also known as mahi-mahi) is a fish that is typically caught in the waters around Malta. It’s served in a tomato-based sauce with olives, capers, and potatoes.

Helwa is a traditional Maltese sweet made from sesame seeds, sugar, and glucose. This sticky and sweet treat is similar to Turkish delight and has a crunchy texture, often sprinkled with pistachios or almonds. It’s aIt’st-try for those with a sweet tooth.

Cisk is Malta’s lager beer, brewed on the island since 1929. It’s light and crisp, perfect for pairing with your meal at a seaside café or restaurant.

The best rabbit dish I ever tried – definitely one of the best things you can’t miss in Malta!

Interactive map of the best things you can’t-miss in Malta

Underneath, you’ll find a customized map that includes all the locations mentioned in this article. Just open up this article on your phone and click on the frame in the upper right corner of this map. The Google Maps app will open, and you can check all the details. I hope it helps!

Additional tips to the things you can’t miss in Malta

Maltese is the official language, but English is widely spoken and is also an official language. Most signs, menus, and information are available in both languages, making it easy for English-speaking visitors to get around.

The best time to visit Malta is in spring (April-May) or autumn (September-November), when the weather is pleasant. The summer months can get crowded.

Tap water in Malta is safe to drink, but it may have a higher mineral content, which some people find a bit strong.

Malta uses the Euro (€), which is convenient for most European travelers. ATMs are widespread, and credit cards are commonly accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Malta uses the UK-style three-pin plug (Type G), so if you are traveling from a country with a different plug type, you’ll need an adapter.

Malta has a well-connected bus system that can get you to most places on the island. Buses are relatively cheap, but be aware that they can get crowded during the peak tourist season.

Malta is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each rich in history, culture, and architectural significance. Whether you’re exploring the ancient temples of Ġgantija, admiring the baroque architecture of Valletta, or wandering through the mysterious underground chambers of the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, you’re experiencing some of the most important cultural landmarks of the Mediterranean.

Malta Travel Resources

Rent-a-car in Malta

You can discover some of the things you can’t miss from this article by renting a car from Malta International Airport. Being a small island, you can get from the south to the north in less than an hour.

The only way you can reach Gozo is via ferry from Malta, but the beauty is that you can actually take your rented car on the ferry. Although the island is tiny, you can’t get around on foot, and the best way to discover Gozo is by car. You get the freedom to make your plan, drive where you want, and spend as much time as you want, with no stress or other limitations.

The best site to book a rental car in Malta is DISCOVER CARS. This easy-to-use booking platform compares car rental deals from many trusted companies, which enables them to secure the best car rental prices. And they usually include insurance.

Get an eSIM before the trip

Because phones have become our most important devices, it’s necessary to have a data connection as soon as you step foot in a different country. Your home data plan might only work if you paid for a much more expensive package, finding wifi connections in airports or train stations might be tricky, and seeking a local store to buy a SIM card might be exhausting. Forget all of that!

You just purchase an e-SIM, install it on your phone, and activate the plan when you use it. Getting out of the plane and instantly connecting to data was a game changer for me. I didn’t waste time standing in line to get a local SIM card or finding a wifi connection to book a taxi to reach my hotel.

If you ask me, getting an e-SIM is a quintessential part of traveling. There is no physical installation and no long-term commitments. And the best part is that you can always top up or purchase a new plan through the app. Pretty convenient, right? You can get an e-sim card with AIRALO.

Secure your travel insurance

We never leave home without travel insurance designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong. If you’re on the lookout for travel insurance for your trip to Malta, I highly recommend HEYMONDO, a trusted insurance provider for leisure and business trips, backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads. Their travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.

Malta related articles

If you’re planning a trip to Malta, you might want to read my other articles!

MALTA BY CAR – THE PERFECT 6-DAY ITINERARY

GOZO BY CAR – THE PERFECT ONE DAY IN GOZO ITINERARY

THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN COMINO