malta holiday travel advice

18 Must-Know Malta Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

I’d like to officially declare Malta, a beautiful Mediterranean island , as visit-worthy . From the unique vibe of Europe meets the Middle East to the food to the views, Malta is not like any other destination I had visited.

To help you make the most of your time in this gorgeous country and plan your itinerary, here are some essential Malta travel tips.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Table of Contents

A Few Things to Know about Malta

• Capital city: Valletta.
• Geographic size: 121 square miles, 316 km².
• Population: Over 440,000.
• Language: Maltese.
• Religion: Roman Catholic.
• Currency: Euro (bring some cash and your credit cards).

Essential Malta Travel Tips

Where to stay in malta.

When choosing where to stay on this island, it all comes down to what you’re planning to do on your vacation in Malta.

If all you seek is to relax and soak up some sun (which is totally legit) consider staying in a town like  Mellieha  in the northwest of the island (where Malta’s biggest sandy beach is).

If you want to travel around Malta (which I highly recommend), both Sliema and Valletta (the capital) are lively cities from which you can take day trips.

They are well-connected to other parts of the island by public transport, so many travelers base themselves in one of these two locations.

To see all of your options and understand the pros and cons of each area, you can also read my full Malta accommodation guide or my guide to where to stay without a car .

I stayed at Slimiza Suites in Sliema (unfortunately, its rating dropped recently) . Higher-rated options in Sliema include Marea Boutique Hotels , Seafront Duplex Penthouse , and Amery House .

If you prefer to base yourself in the landmark-packed capital, Valletta, check out hotels like Tano’s Boutique Guesthouse , Ursulino Valletta , or 66 Saint Paul’s & Spa .

Visiting Gozo and Comino

We can’t talk about visiting Malta without mentioning its two other islands, Gozo and Comino.

While the uninhabited   Comino is famous for the Blue Lagoon, some of Gozo’s popular attractions are the Citadel in Victoria, the salt pans, Dwerja Bay, and Ramla Bay.

There are a few ways to visit these islands:

– Cruises from Sliema – you’ll see plenty of signs in the ferry area promoting these cruises (and don’t forget to use these helpful cruise apps if you choose to take one) . You can also book tours like this one online.

– The Gozo Fast Ferry  from Valletta.

– Full-day tours from Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julians.

– Boat tours and cruises from the northwestern part of Malta, usually from the area of Bugibba ( you can compare all itineraries and prices here ).

– Take a bus to Cirkewwa (bus 222 from Sliema or bus 41 from Valletta) and take the ferry from Cirkewwa to either Gozo or Comino. When getting to Gozo, you can explore it by car, taxi, bus, or sightseeing bus .

When to Visit Malta

Ideally, you’ll want to travel to Malta in mid or late spring, early summer, and early or mid-fall to enjoy the best weather and avoid the crowds of the summer months (though Malta is now a lot more popular not only in July and August).

If your only options are July and August, choose July when the temperatures are still quite bearable, but visiting Malta in April , May, June, September, and even October is better (but take some possibly cloudy and rainy days into consideration).

With the hot weather during these months, some of the most important things to pack for Malta and Gozo (and Comino) include sunscreen and a reusable water bottle that will actually keep your water cool (I love Corkcicle’s canteen ).

Keep in mind that though it has become safe to drink tap water in Malta, you might not like the taste or still want to use a bottle with a filter.

If you love chasing the winter sun in Europe , you should also consider Malta for an off-season trip. You will definitely see much fewer tourists and pay a lot less per day for accommodation.

Traffic Is an Issue

No matter how you choose to get around Malta, be prepared for a lot of traffic. And more traffic. And some more traffic. This is a known issue in Malta and one of the reasons I didn’t want to drive there.

Although you shouldn’t panic too much about it (because there’s nothing you can do to change it), it is something to think about when planning your Malta itinerary .

Getting from one point to another will take longer than it should, and you should just be aware of that.

Getting Around Malta by Car

Sometimes there’s nothing like a good old road trip. You have utter freedom and flexibility to go wherever and whenever you want. Yet in Malta, there are a few things to consider before deciding to get around the island by car.

Beyond the traffic issue, you need to be okay with driving on the left side of the road and driving alongside Maltese drivers (which requires some courage).

If you haven’t taken a Europe an road trip yet, I personally think you should save it for another country like Spain or Portugal .

If you do want to hire a car in Malta, you can compare different car rental deal prices here.

Getting Around Malta by Bus

Even though Malta’s bus system is not perfect, getting around by bus is one of your best options. Here are a few things you should know.

1. Good Things About Buses in Malta

– The buses themselves are clean and air-conditioned.

– You can buy your ticket directly from the driver (unlike many big European cities in which you need to buy it in advance and the bus driver won’t even look at you). This single-journey ticket is valid for 2 hours, including transfers.

– In both Sliema and Valletta, you can buy a 12-ride card at the ticket office or machines next to the bus terminal (see all sales points here ). If you want to save money, this is a great way.

2. Annoying Things About Buses in Malta

– There are too many people and not enough buses. It means that if you’re not one of the first people to go on the bus, you might have to wait for the next one.

– The most popular places to visit in Malta are not all directly connected by public transportation. Depending on your itinerary, there’s a chance you’ll need to switch buses and take a longer route to travel between two places that are fairly close to each other.

– Buses’ timetables can be unexpected, so be sure to consult them on the website of Malta’s public transportation .

Overall, I think everyone should use public transportation when visiting a new destination at least once. It lets you experience the everyday life of the locals and allows you to see things from a different angle.

It can also lead you to places you wouldn’t have seen otherwise, which is exactly why I enjoyed my bus rides in Malta so much. We went into towns and streets I probably wouldn’t have visited, and I got to enjoy some pretty charming views.

There’s also the option of getting around Malta by a hop-on-hop-off bus , but I haven’t tried it myself.

Getting Around Malta by Ferry

From Sliema to Valletta (and vice versa) and from Valletta to the Three Cities, you can (and should) take a ferry instead of a bus since it only takes about 5 minutes to get from one point to another.

The ferries leave once every half an hour, and you can buy a round-trip ticket which is slightly cheaper than two one-way tickets.

Getting Around Malta by Taxi

Sometimes saving time is more important to me than saving money on my travels.

While taxis in Malta are not nearly as cheap as buses, I have used them a few times when I didn’t want to take two or more buses (and travel for 90 minutes instead of 15) to get from one place to another.

If you don’t mind spending a bit more money to save a few hours on the road (and possibly a headache), taxis are a valid option.

Tip #1:  You can negotiate the price and lower it by a few euros.

Tip #2: If possible, look for a taxi station instead of catching one on the street.

Tip #2: You can also use Uber or Malta’s eCabs app.

Get Ready for an Interesting Mix of Cultures

I was excited to visit Malta and get to know its culture because it seemed like such a unique European destination.

Throughout the years, Malta was ruled by the Romans, Arabs, Knights Hospitaller , and Brits, to name a few, and it’s located near Sicily and northern Africa, so you can feel the mix of cultures in everything and everywhere.

Maltese sounds like a combination of Italian and Arab, the food will remind you of Italy , the cities look Middle Eastern, the churches look Roman and Greek, they drive on the left side, and red phone booths are scattered around (mostly in Valletta).

Combine all of these cultural bits and pieces, and you’ve got yourself an explosion of uniqueness.

English Is the Second Official Language

Driving on the left side of the road is not the only influence of 150 years of British rule.

You’ll be happy to know that the majority of the locals speak decent English (especially in tourist areas like Valletta) since it is another official language in Malta.

A language barrier can be frustrating to deal with when traveling, so that’s one less thing to worry about in Malta.

The Atmosphere Is (Very) Laid Back

The Maltese lifestyle is relaxed and laid-back, which can be positively contagious if you want to learn how to take things easier (who doesn’t?).

On the other hand, it also means that some things like getting your food at a restaurant can take a little longer than what you’re used to, so be patient.

Plug Type Used in Malta

Malta uses plugs of type G (yet another British influence) and operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.

You can consult your country’s plug type and voltage here to see if you need to pack a power adapter and a voltage converter .

My hotel also provided power sockets that worked with plugs C, E, and F, but it’s best to have an adapter with you.

You Never Know Where You’ll Find a Place to Get in the Water

Some beaches in Malta are sandy, many are rocky, and others are not even beaches. In fact, one of my favorite things about Malta is that you might find a pool ladder to help you get into the beautiful water where you least expect it.

Whether it’s in Sliema’s Roman baths, near the famous Blue Grotto, or swimming areas like the natural St. Peter’s Pool , you should always have your bathing suit with you, and you should always be prepared to take a dip.

It’s Not Just About Beaches

I have much respect for Malta’s beaches because they are seriously gorgeous, but there’s SO much more to this island.

From fishing villages and UNESCO cities like Valletta and Mdina to archeological sites and cave boat tours to quirky attractions like the Popeye Village, Malta is a lot more diverse than people think.

Malta Is Small, but There’s a Lot to See

As I’ve just mentioned, there’s quite a lot to do and see in Malta, so even though the island is small, don’t let it fool you.

Malta deserves at least 4 to 5 whole days, and a week or 10 days would be even better to see its hidden nooks and crannies.

Taking into consideration the fact that getting around from one spot to another does take some time, you also don’t want to add too many places to your daily itinerary.

Attend Some Festas

Did you know that there are more than 350 churches in Malta? Each one is dedicated to a different saint, and each saint gets its own celebration!

Instead of having almost a full year of celebrations (which sounds awesome), many of these festivals take place during summer, and they include decorated streets, fireworks, band marches, and more.

For more information and tips for visiting Malta’s festas, read here .

Pastizzi Are the Definition of Happiness

Oh, pastizzi , you wonderful flaky pastries.

If you want to experience true joy, one of my top Malta tips would be to try some pastizzi.

These phyllo-like pastries are usually filled with ricotta cheese or peas, but there are a few other fillings you can try, and some places even serve sweet pastizzi.

When they’re freshly baked and you bite into them while they’re still warm, you get a taste of what I can only describe as heaven.

You’ll see street vendors selling these drops of happiness or find them in special bakeries called pastizzerias or cafes around Malta.

All Three Islands Are a Paradise for Divers and Snorkelers

From diving in Gozo ‘s Blue Hole and Comino’s Crystal Lagoon to snorkeling in Malta’s St. Peter’s Pool, all three islands provide more than enough places to take an adventurous dip.

Consider Malta for your next girls’ trip in Europe !

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About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

2 thoughts on “18 Must-Know Malta Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors”

I enjoyed reading this guide, thanks for sharing. I visited Malta a couple years back but I wish I spent more time on Gozo rather than just a day trip. I also found the waters around Malta had a lot of jellyfish, it might’ve been to do with the time of the year I was there (July).

Thank you! Slow travel is always better, so I also hope to go back to spend more time in Gozo. I also visited in July and didn’t come across any jellyfish, so I guess it depends on the area you explore.

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Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

20+ Malta Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go

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If there’s one European destination that I dream most about returning to, it’s Malta.

This glorious sun-drenched movie set is filled with historic monuments, mouthwatering food, and a unique culture you won’t find anywhere else in the world. It is (in my mind) one of the most underrated tourist destinations in Europe, especially for overseas visitors.

… but you have to do it properly!

First time visitors to Malta often fall into the same traps and make the same mistakes, so I’m here today to list them all out to ensure you have all the Malta travel tips you need to have the trip of a lifetime.

So, keep scrolling for all my most important Malta must-knows (from basics to weirdly specific tips on saving money).

Save this list of Malta Travel Tips for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Understand that Malta is an archipelago

We’ll start with the most basic of basics: for those new to this wonderland of a country, Malta is an archipelago floating blissfully between Sicily and the Northern Coast of Africa, with its three inhabited islands being Malta, Gozo and Comino.

Depending on how much time they have, most first time visitors will stick to Malta, although visits to Gozo and Comino are popular picks as well thanks to the ease of travel between islands.

So, just know that if you do plan on covering the country of Malta properly, prepare for a few breezy boat rides.

2. Plan your trip for a minimum of four days

Now, onto the next big question: how long should you spend in Malta?

Well, if you want to break my heart, do Malta in a weekend.

But if you want to make me a proud travel mom, plan your trip for at least four days.

Malta may be a tiny country when compared to some others, but it’s packed with impressive sights, so I would recommend coming for a minimum of four days if you want to get a good feel for the main must-dos and possibly venture out to Gozo and Comino as well. 

3. Spend more than just a day in Gozo

Now, onto another important Malta travel planning tip: if you plan to Gozo, I implore you to go for more than just a day!

A lot of people, myself included, do Gozo as a day trip, but I would personally stay at least a night there if possible, because that island is absolutely magical and has plenty of sights to fill two days or more.

… When I eventually get back there some day, I might even base myself in Gozo for the trip to explore it further. Yes, it’s that lovely.

4. Learn some basic Maltese, although English is widely spoken

Now some good news for English speakers: English happens to be one of the official languages of Malta so you’ll have zero trouble getting by with English. Most locals (especially in tourist areas) do speak it well.

But as usual, I do think it’s nice to learn at least a few basics in the local language whenever you can, plus in Maltese it’s pretty simple, so here are a few phrases to commit to memory:

• Grazzi: Thank You
• Bonju: Good morning
• Bonswa: Good evening
• Waranofs in-har it-tajjeb: Good afternoon (maybe avoid greeting people in the afternoon)

5. Prices are highest in Valletta, so consider staying in other areas

Another money-saving tip for Malta is to consider staying outside of the capital (Valletta) which is where prices will be highest.

Since Malta is so compact, staying somewhere outside Valletta is barely any bother, plus it can also be quieter and less crowded, depending on where you go.

Some options still close to Valletta include…

• The Three Cities – Located just across the water from Valletta, so you can just hop on a fun 10 minute ferry to get across
• Sliema – Great views of Valletta and lots of fun bars/restaurants (although getting increasingly pricey)

6. Consider visiting in the Spring or Fall

In terms of the best time to go, Malta is commonly known as a beachy ‘tan like a walrus on the beach’ type of place, hence huge crowds in the summer time.

BUT honestly, if you’re like me and want to visit Malta more for its cultural and historical sights, then going in the Spring is definitely a better idea. Summer temperatures in Malta make sightseeing a daunting task, and if you’d rather not be a slippery sweat stick during your trip, then look to avoid July and August.

My very first trip to Malta was in April , and the temperatures were absolutely perfect. I’ve heard Fall can be a good time to visit as well, although conditions tend to be a bit rainier.

7. In the summer, explore early in the morning to avoid crowds/heat

That said, if you do visit Malta in the summer, one tip I have is to get up really early to explore just after sunrise because this is when you’ll get the least crowds and more tolerable temperatures.

Especially in Valletta, there’s not many places with shade so it gets hot and sticky frighteningly quick.

Then, you can spend the hot afternoons taking a dip in the sea or hiding somewhere with air conditioning. Oh the possibilities!

8. Look out for festas and festivals 

If you need some help deciding when to visit Malta, it may be worth looking into their festival calendar.

Malta has tons of amazing festivals and festas (religious celebrations) throughout the year, during which the streets are really beautifully decorated and lively.

Visit Malta during one of these special events and you’re likely to encounter fireworks, bands, and processions. Luckily, with over 60 festas on the calendar each year, odds are good that you may run into one.

If not, there are also tons of other fun events throughout the year. During my trips, I’ve experienced a wine festival, a Freedom Day Regatta, and fireworks! Are you seeing why I’m so obsessed with this country now?

9. Read up on Maltese history before your trip

Another important Malta tip I have for you is to do a bit of research before your trip about the country’s history.

As I mentioned in the introduction, Malta has a really unique culture that you won’t find elsewhere in the world. A large factor in this is the country’s turbulent and lengthy history, which helps contextualize a lot of the sights you’ll see, so learning a bit in advance can be really helpful.

For instance, did you know that there are some temples on this island that predate the Pyramids of Giza by 1000 years?

Or that up until 1964, it was consistently under the rule of different groups? The reason Malta is unlike any place in the world is because the country we see today was formed under the combined influence of the Carthaginians, the Romans, the Byzantines, the Arabs, the French and the English. 

… so yes, Malta is as interesting as it is pretty – be sure to read up on it to make the most of your trip!

10. Beware of multiple names for streets and places

Now, one of the byproducts of Malta’s historic turbulence is that place names can be a bit confusing… in the sense that there’s often many of them.

Over the past 400 years alone, Malta has been ruled by four different groups with four different languages, hence why these days many names are floating around for various Maltese streets, squares and places.

As an example, the photo below is of Republic Square (Pjazza Repubblika), formerly/sometimes still known as Victoria Square, Piazza Regina, Place de l’Egalité, Piazza della Città and Piazza dei Cavallieri.

So yes, just keep that in mind when getting directions/navigating! There are often multiple names referring to the same place.

11. Malta is remarkably British

Another byproduct of Malta’s history (that shocks many first time visitors) is that Malta is fairly British in a lot of ways. 

Not only do they drive on the left side of the road as we mentioned earlier, there are also red phone booths all over Valletta, their beer is served in pints… and they use the Type G outlets like in the UK, so bring an adapter if coming from Europe.

Currency-wise though, they do use the Euro here. Just to add to the confusion.

12. Consider hiring private transfers to get around

Malta is a tiny country with a relatively large population and also many tourists. This means a ton of traffic and general chaos on the roads.

… which is unfortunate, because if you want to have optimal flexibility to see the top sights, especially if you want to explore Gozo, having a car is quite essential.

So what should you do if you don’t want the fuss of renting a car and driving yourself?

While in most places, I would just opt for public transport (which we’ll discuss below), I’d say with Malta, private tours offer another great option because they can be surprisingly affordable compared to other touristy European destinations.

For instance, you can book this tour from Malta to Gozo for the day which includes transport and lunch for about 80 euros, which is not bad at all.

So, if I were to plan my own trip to Malta today, I would probably not rent a car and instead book little day trips out like this one to cover more remote destinations.

13. Bus travel in Malta is very affordable, though it has its downsides

That said, if you’re on a budget, the good news is bus travel in Malta is very affordable as well.

At full price, a ticket one way is 2 euro, but it can be much much cheaper if you buy a special pass.

So why did I recommend booking private transfers then? Well, unfortunately, bus travel in Malta (especially in the summer) isn’t the greatest. Not only can buses be really crowded, they’re also notoriously unreliable in terms of punctuality.

But hey, sometimes embracing the chaos is part of the fun, so if you plan to take buses around Malta, here is a summary of ways to save money on your bus journeys.

The best bus pass options for tourists in Malta are…

• 12 Single Day Journeys (€15) card: Saves you almost half price on each journey, ideal if you won’t take many trips
• 7-Day Explore Card: Offers unlimited journeys for €21, ideal for a longer stay
• Explore Plus Meep: Offers unlimited travel as well as two ferry trips. I couldn’t find the price for this on their website so it’s unclear if this is still something they offer, but be sure to ask!

NOTE: These passes are much better for tourists than paying the (similarly named) Explore Flex Card which is more for people who commute throughout the year since you only save 15-50 cents per journey and the card itself is 6 EUR.

14. Make sure to try plenty of Maltese food

Alright. Are you ready? I’m about to share THE most important Malta travel tips I have with you…

Because we’re now going to talk about Maltese food!

The food in Malta is simply incredible. A few must tries include…

• Pastizzi: A magical pastry with crispy phyllo dough and usually a ricotta or pea filling
• Imqaret: A date-filled pastry best enjoyed with a scoop of creamy Maltese ice cream
• Stuffat tal-Fenek: A stewed rabbit dish that is unbelievably comforting and tender
• Bigilla: A creamy bean dip
• Bragioli: beef rolls stuffed with egg, bacon, bread crumbs, and braised in wine

And lastly, seafood. Eat as much seafood as possible when you’re in Malta. It’s so fresh and so delicious, especially when you go to the fishing villages like Marsaxlokk.

… I’m honestly just drooling while writing this. When can I book my flight?

15. Keep an eye out for Malta’s amazing churches

When you’re not busy swimming in a sea of Pastizzi , another thing to while exploring Malta is to look out for churches.

Malta has hundreds of churches, almost one for every day of the year.

The best part? They’re absolutely beautiful, so if you happen to pass one while exploring be sure to duck in and take a look.

Obviously the most famous one is the St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, but you’ll easily find hundreds of others as you walk around, so be sure to take a peek inside if you get a chance.

16. Bring coverings to enter churches

One thing to be mindful of though is that your shoulders and knees should be covered when you’re entering churches in Malta, so be sure to bring a lightweight scarf with you to cover up if you’re visiting in the summer.

17. Be careful when going out for a swim

Alright, now for a Malta safety tip…

Swimming in Malta is a fun activity that many visitors look forward to, but often they don’t realize a lot of the swimming areas in Malta are quite rocky, and depending on the weather conditions can be a bit rough for swimming, with the occasional threat via Mother Nature too, like jellyfish.

So, definitely do your research before you head out to swim.!

There’s actually a great website for this called WhichBeach that lists out all the beaches in Malta and summarizes the weather conditions and even recommends beaches for particular days depending on the conditions. Be sure to consult it during your trip so you can enjoy Malta’s glimmering waters safely.

18. Look into a Malta Pass (potentially)

Now, if you plan on visiting a lot of attractions during your time in Malta, there is something called a MaltaPass that includes a bunch of attractions for one set price.

To be honest with you though, I don’t think it’s worth it for most people just because these attractions are really scattered, and many of them aren’t (in my opinion) the coolest things to see in Malta.

So, just know that an attraction pass is an option but look carefully at the actual list of sights before you commit to buying.

19. A boat ride is a must when in Malta

Now, while a MaltaPass isn’t a must, one thing that is (in my opinion) is taking a boat ride at some point.

Boat rides are just such a lovely way to enjoy Malta from a different perspective, and there are so many great options that you really have no excuse!

I can highly recommend a boat trip around the Blue Grotto in Southeastern Malta or a ferry ride to Gozo or Comino.

Or, if you’re looking for something cheaper, hopping on a ‘dghajsa’ from Valletta over to the Three Cities is also super fun.

These are gondola-esque Maltese water taxis that allow you to get amazing views from the water. They may not be one of those superyachts you’ll find docked nearby, but dayum if the views aren’t wonderful (and cheap – at only 2 euros one way!)

20. Beware that Instagram often doesn’t tell the full story

Now before we wrap up, I do want to do a quick round of Instagram vs reality… just because I think Malta (while undeniably stunning) is one of those very photogenic places that often get misrepresented on social media.

First off, some sad news: in case you weren’t already aware, the natural arch formerly known as the Azure Window sadly collapsed into the sea in 2017, so if you’ve seen photos of this iconic spot before, it’s unfortunately no longer around:

Now for Valletta, Malta’s capital. I just need you to beware that while they make for some truly epic photos, the streets here are actually quite steep and hilly, so make sure you pack good walking shoes to conquer them!

Another warning: Mdina is an amazing place to visit in Malta known as the Silent City, and although many photos will depict the streets looking empty, you should know that an early (or very late) arrival is crucial to actually seeing Mdina without huge tourist mobs, as it’s one of the most popular day trip destinations in Malta.

Lastly, we have to talk about the Blue Lagoon on Comino. Most photos you see will show it as an empty oasis, but in the summer time, it really does get so busy to the point where online reviewers liken it to a giant hotel pool, so just have your expectations in check if you’re visiting in peak season.

Visit in April and take the last boat out however, and you may luck out with these views like I did:

21. Know that Popeye Village is a theme park

This is a niche Malta tip, but one that I think nobody covers, so here goes…

Another spot you’ll see many photos of is Popeye Village , often shown as a scenic backdrop, like so:

BUT, for first time visitors, it’s important you know that this spot is actually pretty far up North and not close to Valletta or any other big tourist sites so you do have to go sort of out of your way to come here. It’s also not a real village, but rather a film set from the 80s that they kept and turned into a theme park. 

Do I recommend actually paying to see the inside? Well, I personally loved it because I’m a huge fan of quirky and strange places (like the Arnold Schwarzanegger Museum in Austria) but beware that the park is fairly outdated, there’s not really rides, and  overall, it’s kind of expensive for Malta because an adult ticket is 20 euro.

That said, I do think it’s a fun place if you need to entertain kids, or if you’re a kid at heart like I clearly am.

22. Binge some movies and TV shows set in Malta before you go

Lastly, this is an incredibly dorky tip, but there are SO many movies that have filmed in Malta over the years, so a really great thing to do in advance of your trip is simply binging some to get excited.

Some big name ones you might recognize include…

• Assassin’s Creed
• Murder on the Orient Express
• … and season one of Game of Thrones!

I hope this list of Malta Travel Tips was helpful!

This was already a very long list of tips for Malta, but if you have any more questions, let me know in the comments. Safe and happy travels!

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

1 thought on “20+ Malta Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go”

Thanks for providing such a resourceful info about the place. It’s insightful. Got to know some amazing facts.

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Malta Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 23, 2023

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 charming (if a bit dated) 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 can help you save money and plan an epic trip here.

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. Needless to say, 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. Walking tours of Valletta last 3 hours and cost 18 EUR. One of the best things to do though is to just to stroll the narrow roads and alleys and let yourself get lost.

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. And 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!). For a super unique experience, 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 15 EUR.

3. Hike a coastal trail in Gozo

The coastal trails in Gozo offer a few different routes around the island for anyone looking to stretch their legs while enjoying the 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.

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. Paradise Bay and Armier, on the northern tip, have great views of the island of Gozo. If you have time to get there, the beaches in Gozo are great 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 throws its own version of Carnival every February — and has been doing so 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 too!

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.

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). It’s free to enter and explore, with lots of little shops hidden down the alleys. 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 isn’t known as a diving destination, yet the island 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 decrepit 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, 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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 cost from 40 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. When the weather is nice they offer boat rides around the area. Off-peak admission is 14 EUR while peak-season admission is 20 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 35 EUR.

Malta Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostels outside the capital in St. Julian’s and Sliema cost 10-20 EUR per night for an 8-10-bed dorm. In Valletta, they cost around 25 EUR per night. 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 35 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 you can find entire homes/apartments for as little as 35 EUR (although there are more options 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 8.75 EUR for a combo meal (yes, there are McDonald’s here).

Beer costs around 3 EUR (half that if you buy it at a grocery store) while a bottle of water costs 1.20 EUR. A latte/cappuccino is around 2.30 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 45 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 115 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!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

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!
• 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. Here are my recommended places to stay:

• Inhawi Hostel (St. Julian’s)
• Two Pillows Boutique Hostel (Sliema)
• Corner Hostel Sliema (Sliema)

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 costs 22 EUR with Hello Malta or 15 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 12 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.

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).

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 precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

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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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 Tips (Complete Guide To Planning Your Holiday)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 21, 2023

Considering a trip to the beautiful island of Malta? Read on for our top Malta tips and everything you need to know to plan your perfect sunshine break in the Med.

Malta. A Mediterranean island archipelago that I guarantee will both charm and delight you.

After visiting Malta 5 times over the past 17 years I have come to know the island (and its smaller neighbouring islands of Gozo and Comino) well.

When I first visited Malta in 2002 it was relatively unknown as a tourist destination. As a popular holiday and retirement destination for the British population it seemed to have slipped under the international tourist radar.

Over the last 10 years however the number of visitors to Malta has nearly doubled from 1.2 to 2.3 million. Not bad for an island with a population of just over 460 thousand and indicative of its growing popularity as a top Mediterranean holiday destination.

Valletta, Malta’s capital  and European Capital of Culture in 2018 is a city full of character and history. Due to its the magnificent harbour and central location it is a favourite port for the many cruise ships that sail the Mediterranean. It is also growing in popularity amongst Europeans seeking winter sun or an easily accessible weekend getaway.

If you are one of the millions of visitors planning to visit Malta soon this post will give you some travel tips worth knowing before you arrive.

After 5 visits my top Malta travel tips and advice to ensure you have a fantastic holiday. 

Some basic facts to know about the Maltese Islands

By hop-on and hop-off bus, best tours and day trips to do in malta, what are the traditional foods on malta and gozo, where are the best beaches on the maltese islands, what are festas and when are they held, the south of the island – marsaskala or marsaxlokk, resort area north of valletta – sliema, st julians and paceville, the north of the island – bugibba, qawra and st pauls and mellieha, where are the best markets to visit in malta, what souvenirs should i buy on malta.

• There are actually 21 islands that make up the Maltese archipelago. Malta is the largest of the 3 main islands. At only 27 kms long and 14.5  kms wide it is the smallest country in the European Union and tenth smallest in the world.
• Do not assume however that Malta is an island you can drive around quickly. The roads are congested and many are in quite a poor condition.
• As well as being one of the world’s smallest countries Malta is also one of the most densely populated (and add a few million visitors to that mix and it can get rather busy!)

• The name ‘Malta’ is believed to derive from the Greek word for honey.
• Malta was part of the British Empire for 150 years and gained independence on September 21st 1964.
• The entire population of Malta were awarded the George Cross by King George V for their bravery during World War II.
• Gozo is Malta’s smaller sister though only 20 minutes away by ferry.
• Comino is the tiny island sandwiched between the 2!  Comino has only 4 residents and is also the location of the fabled Blue Lagoon and lesser-known Crystal Lagoon.

• The main languages spoken on the islands are Maltese and English.
• The Euro is the unit of currency.
• The main airline is Air Malta.
• Victoria, the capital of Gozo, is also known as Rabat.
• There are 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites on the Maltese Islands.

What is the best way to travel around the islands of Malta, Gozo and Comino?

I have never hired a car when on holiday in Malta but rather prefer to use public transport. The roads are narrow and and can be quite congested around Valletta and popular resort areas (and quite frankly I didn’t fancy sharing the road with Maltese drivers who seem to ignore any speed restrictions and overtake wherever they want)

The bus service is generally reliable and an inexpensive way to travel. Tickets can be purchased on the bus from the driver and cost €1.50 in winter €2 in summer and €3 for night buses. Summer rates are in place from mid-June to mid-October.

There are also a range of bus cards offering added value and reduced fares:

The ExplorePlus travel card gets you 7 days of unlimited travel on public transport around Malta. The card also includes 2 trips on the Valletta ferry. The card also includes a full-day tour on the hop-on hop-off buses OR a boat trip to Comino. What an absolute bargain! ExplorePlus Card (€39)

The 7-day Explore Card entitles you to unlimited use of buses on both Malta and Gozo. It is valid for both day and night services. Child prices are valid up to 10 years of age. Click here for information on where to buy your Explore Card. Explore (Adult €21 / Child €15) – Unlimited travel for 7 days

The 12 Journey card is another easy and cost-effective way of travelling around Malta and Gozo. If you are only planning a few excursions this is the perfect option. Click  here  for information on where to buy a 12 Single Day Journeys Card.

12 Single Day Journeys (€15)

If you want to enjoy Malta’s sights at your own pace consider purchasing a ticket on the hop-on, hop-off double-decker bus tour. The buses depart every 30 minutes and stop at top sites within the Malta North and South Routes.

Click here to purchase your hop-on and off bus tickets for Malta

If you do decide to hire a car and drive around the island do remember that the Maltese drive on the left (well they should). Although there has been some serious investment from the EU some of the roads are still less than perfect with ruts, potholes and poor surfaces common.

Other key points to remember are to park in the direction of travel.

I would recommend renting a small car as parking can be quite difficult in some areas. Don’t assume that people will indicate either.

To be honest I would catch the bus….

The best way to travel in Malta is by boat and you really should not spend any time there without setting foot on a boat! There are loads of Malta boat trips to choose from too.

Just don’t do the one that takes you all the way around the island. It takes all day and on the trip, we went on about 85% of the passengers were seasick.

If you only take 2 Malta boat trips I would highly recommend one to Comino and the Blue Lagoon and the other around the harbour in Valletta.

You will find there are numerous companies offering tours  to Comino. If you can (and are in the north of the island) I would highly recommend a trip with English Rose Cruises.

The boat is smaller, the captain is the very handsome Sandro and you will have the BEST time. Not only can you jump straight from the boat into the beautiful blue waters of the Mediterranean but he will take you to the lesser-known (and quieter) Crystal Lagoon.

We stay in Mellieha just so we can take 3 or 4 trips with Sandro. It really is that good.

Alternatively (if you are staying on another part of the island) these boat trips are also available

If you want to see Gozo you will need to catch the ferry across. The journey takes about 30 minutes and leaves from Cirkewwa in Malta and arrives in the port of  Mgarr on Gozo.

The ferry leaves every 45 minutes and costs €4.65 return for adults, €1.15 for kids aged 3-12 and free for under 3’s. If you are driving over it costs €15.70.

There are loads of activities available in Malta to keep you busy – these are a selection of the best from Get Your Guide

Tip – Save money and enjoy discounts of up to 50% at more than 150 establishments in Malta with a 10-day Malta Discount Card. Enjoy access to some of the island’s top tours, museums, and activities, including restaurants, water sports and much more.

Click here for more information about the Malta Discount Card

Try the food when you are visiting Malta. There are many tasty local dishes to eat and if you enjoy olives and capers you will find them in abundance!

• The Italian and English influences are very evident in the traditional Maltese foods.
• Pizza and pasta can be found in abundance.
• Seafood is also extremely popular with  Lampuki pie a staple of the Maltese diet. Lampuki is a common fish caught around the islands. Baked in a pie with capers, spinach and potatoes it is delicious.
• The national dish of Malta is Stuffat tal-fenek which is a rabbit stew.
• The most popular Maltese snack is the pastizzi. This is a savoury pastry filled with ricotta or mushy peas. I have to say I wasn’t keen on these.
• Kinnie is a soft drink made with bitter oranges.
• Cisk i s the local beer.
• You will see prickly pears all over Malta and they feature in one of my favourite Maltese drinks -Bajtra. It is a beautiful (though very sweet) liquor made from the cactus fruit. You can also buy prickly pear conserve and jam.
• Try a plate of tomatoes, goat’s cheese, capers and olives in Gozo. Delicious!

READ MORE – YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO VISITING MALTA

Ok lets be blunt here but Malta is not known for its miles of stunning beaches. The islands are rocky and beaches are few and far between.

The best beaches are in the north of Malta so if a beach is really what you want head to Mellieha.

In Mellieha you will find Malta’s largest sandy beach. Further north there are Golden Bay and Paradise Bays. Do be careful though as I believe the sea can be a little rougher in these areas.

There is a beach at the   Blue Lagoon on Comino. The teeny tiniest beach in the universe. No problem. Take a boat trip and spend the day jumping into the clear blue waters from the deck! Far more fun than struggling for a space on the actual beach.

Malta is a predominantly Roman Catholic Island. Every village and city has a church at its heart and every church is named after a saint. So when it is the saint’s day the village or town or city go crazy with parties, celebrations and generally have a bloody good time!

I LOVE being in Malta when there are festas. The atmosphere is amazing and everyone has a great time. The best festas are in the hot summer months when warm evenings are perfect to enjoy the open air celebrations.

Expect plenty of food, drinks, music and fireworks. If you want to experience a festa (and you really should!) you can book a tour with Get Your Guide ( my preferred tour group company) below:

An evening of Colorful Festa Fireworks in Malta

One of our top Malta tips is to make sure to experience the spectacular Maltese Festa tradition, for which fireworks are a must. Enjoy the special sweets made for these parish feasts, as well as the beautifully lit-up streets and church, while the parish brass band fills the air with music.

→ CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR FUN FESTA EVENING IN MALTA

Where is the best place to stay in Malta?

To answer this question I would say that it really depends on what you want from your holiday in Malta. There are so many options to choose from that it is worth considering which part of the island would suit you best.

Read – Malta area and accommodation guide

For those seeking a quieter holiday away from the action. This is where we stayed on our first visit but subsequently, we have moved progressively up to the top of the island.

The south will give you a chance to experience Maltese life. Pop to Marsaxlokk for the market on Sunday. Definitely go to a local village Festa!

£ – Marsaskala Luxury Apartment & Penthouse

£ – Cerviola Hotel

£ – Port View Guesthouse

If you enjoy history Valletta is the place to stay. It is central and possible to catch a bus just about anywhere.

£££ – The Phoenicia Malta 

££ – 66 Saint Paul’s & Spa

££ – The Embassy Valletta Hotel

The main resort areas on Malta centre around Sliema and St Julian’s. If you enjoy shopping and some lively nightlife this is the area to head for.

££ – Palazzo Violetta Boutique

£££ – Corinthia Hotel St. George’s Bay

This is my personal favourite area of Malta to visit. The north is a little more rugged than the south but offers great views across to Comino and Gozo.

The three resorts of Bugibba, Qawra and St Pauls meld into one long coastal strip. I would given them a skip and head to Mellieha which is exactly what we have done on the last 3 visits!

£ – Luna Holiday Complex

£££ – Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands 

Gozo really deserves a post of its own. Although we always visit Gozo I have yet to stay on the island. Gozo is Malta’s greener more lush smaller sister and offers a quieter alternative to its big sister.

There are some fantastic accommodation options on Gozo including old farmhouses, cottages and secluded hotels.

£ – Il-Bàrraġ B&B Hosting Family

 ££ – The Duke Boutique Hotel

⇒ Click here for more accommodation options on Malta and Gozo

There are number of excellent markets in Malta to peruse! My favourite is in Marsaxlokk. This is also a great village to visit if you want to see the beautiful and very colourful traditional Maltese boats.

• Marsaxlokk Open Market – held every day but Sunday is the day to go to see the fish on sale. It does get very busy on Sundays as the locals also head to the market.

• Victoria Open Air It-Tokk Market – this market on Gozo takes place daily in Independence Square in Victoria. There are loads of restaurants and cafes around the square as well as some great artisan shops.
• Il-Monti Valletta – this is the largest market on the island and is held in Valletta every Sunday morning. Head there early to avoid the crowds!
• Rabat Market (near Mdina) – great market for fresh produce and traditional Maltese foods.
• Ta’Qali Farmers Market – this market only sells Maltese produce so stock up on honey, bread, goat’s cheese and other delicacies. This market is open Tuesdays 16:00-19:00, Saturdays 09:00-17:00 and is situated next to the Ta Qali Crafts Village.

When you visit Malta make sure to take home some of the fantastic products for which the islands are famous. As a fan of prickly pears, I always purchase the local liquor made from the fruit. If you are visiting some of the markets you will easily be able to pick up some of these souvenirs!

• Bajtra – Prickly Pear liqueur
• Prickly Pear jam/conserve
• Lace – Bizzilla  Maltese Lace can be purchased in all the markets. The lace is a traditional craft that flourished in Malta over 400 years ago. The traditions have been passed from mother to daughter over the centuries. Much of the lace features the Maltese cross.
• Nougat – If you attend a festa you have to try some traditional Maltese nougat!
• Maltese Filigree – I bought a beautiful filigree ring on my first visit to Malta. The jewellery is very pretty and created using fine threads of gold or silver to produce ornate pieces.
• Blown glass from Mdina – visit the workshop and showroom in Mdina and watch beautiful glass creations made before your eyes!

I am confident these tips will help you plan a fabulous holiday to Malta. It really is one of our favourite destinations to visit in Europe.

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11 Tips Before Traveling to Malta

The Maltese archipelago is a trendy destination that increasingly attracts the curious. The sun, the sea, and a rich cultural heritage draw nearly 2.5 million travelers each year. If you too are considering traveling to Malta, follow our recommendations for a successful stay.

#1 Apply for the European Health Insurance Card before traveling to Malta

The Maltese archipelago is part of the European Union. For nationals of one of the 27 EU Member States (as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom), when traveling to Malta, in case of health problems on site, it is possible to benefit from the European social security system. Therefore, think beforehand, at least 15 days before your departure, to order the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

For UK nationals, The UK GHIC has replaced the existing European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), it can be ordered on the website of the NHS .

The European Health Insurance Card is free and allows for 100% coverage in case of hospitalization, without upfront fees. It is also available for minors who are still attached to their parents’ accounts.

A precaution too often forgotten by those traveling to Malta, and all the more important since the health crisis related to Coronavirus.

#2 Use an Online Platform to Book Accommodation

Whether you want to book a hotel in Malta , an apartment, or a homestay, prioritize online platforms: Expedia , Booking , etc.

Booking a Hotel in Malta

Using online platforms offers additional security and guarantee , with fewer bad surprises and the ability to intervene in case of issues with the hotel.

Another aspect is the price of rooms. Maltese hoteliers almost always offer prices higher than those found on major online booking sites . This is partly explained by the fact that many rooms are pre-purchased in bulk by tour operators, to be resold at retail.

The best available hotel prices in Malta are very often found on Agoda platform .

Renting an Apartment in Malta

Be particularly cautious when booking an apartment or house in Malta. It is advisable to avoid booking remotely directly with an owner without having visited. For short-term rentals, prefer platforms like VRBO or Airbnb, which already have reviews and feedback, and centralize payments.

It’s worth noting that some owners in Malta have a reputation for not always returning deposits, sometimes leaving tourists stranded at the end of their stay.

Accommodation for a Language Stay in Malta

If you’re planning to be among the 80,000 students who come to learn English during a language stay in Malta each year, don’t hesitate to contact our team. We will help you find a school, accommodation and provide support in case of any problems on site.

#3 Avoid Unnecessary Spending

Bank cards and fees in malta.

Before departing, we advise you to opt for a bank card with free payments and withdrawals abroad. Once in Malta, always withdraw money from HSBC or BOV (Bank of Valletta) ATMs to avoid withdrawal fees.

You will see many small ATM machines around the island or in hotel lobbies. Be careful if you use them, as transaction fees can reach between 3 and 5%.

Additionally, we recommend downloading the Revolut app. This payment app is very popular on the Maltese archipelago, it is free and allows for payments at island merchants, currency exchanges, and instant transfers between individuals.

Displayed Prices vs. Paid Prices

Whether in small or large retail stores (Welbee’s, Lidl, Scotts, Greens, etc.), always check your receipt . The prices displayed on shelves do not always match the prices paid at the checkout.

Displayed prices are not always updated, promotions are not always applied, and labeling is often approximate. To avoid unpleasant surprises, check prices at the terminals during your shopping and your receipt upon exiting.

Change for Small Purchases

When moving around the Maltese archipelago, always try to have between 5 and 10 euros in coins.

For purchasing a bus ticket, a Pastizzi, or a bottle of water on the street, try to have the exact change. Note that some merchants or bus drivers do not accept bills, so it is wise to anticipate.

#4 Equip Yourself Before Departing to Malta

Accessories to bring.

There aren’t many accessories to plan for before leaving for Malta. However, you will need to protect yourself from the sun and therefore equip accordingly. Malta also uses British-style electrical plugs . We advise you to bring the following accessories so as not to be caught off guard upon arrival:

• A pair of sunglasses
• Sunscreen SPF 50+ (regardless of the season)
• A head covering (cap, hat, etc.)

If you forget, do not worry: all these accessories are available in most supermarkets across the archipelago.

Clothing to Consider

Going to Malta means heading to a warm and sunny country . If you are leaving between May and September, avoid the unnecessary: it will be hot, and you will spend most of the time in shorts (or dresses), even in the evening.

From October to April, temperatures drop but almost never fall below 10°C. Therefore, there’s no need to overpack; you won’t face snow or negative temperatures.

However, the island country can be quite windy during the winter and prone to sea storms. If your stay is planned during the winter months, consider bringing a windbreaker or a jacket with a hood, and possibly a beanie if your ears are sensitive.

For the more athletic, it’s worth noting there is now a Decathlon in Malta ; it is therefore possible to equip yourself on site if necessary.

#5 Plan Ahead for Your Visits and Activities

Whether you’re heading to Malta for a weekend or a several-week stay, it’s highly recommended to anticipate and plan your visits and activities in advance to ensure you don’t miss out and to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Malta is full of places to discover: the Blue Lagoon , Valletta , Mdina , Gozo , etc. Although the island is small, road and sea transport, such as at the Cirkewwa ferry terminal, can take time.

Among Malta’s must-sees, some activities quickly become overcrowded with tourists during the high season and can be fully booked.

We advise you to book your activities in advance via Get Your Guide or Viator , especially for water activities and guided tours. Also, make sure to book your tickets for museums, temples, boats, etc., to avoid disappointments.

Don’t hesitate to go off the beaten path and prefer off-peak hours (early morning) to avoid crowds and discover the authentic Malta.

#6 Choose Bus, Uber, eCabs, or Bolt for Getting Around the Island

For getting around during your holidays in Malta, we recommend using the Bus service (Malta public transport), the cheapest way to travel across the archipelago. If you are staying for several weeks, it might also be worthwhile to consider a Tallinja Card .

We also recommend using ride-hailing services: eCabs, Bolt, or Uber.

eCabs, Bolt, and Uber require downloading an app on your phone. Two solutions that allow you to get transportation in less than 5 minutes anywhere on the island and at cheaper rates than conventional taxis.

We advise against using the services of white taxis. You will see them parked at the most touristy spots; they are more expensive than Bolt drivers and sometimes rough with travelers.

If necessary, it is essential to always agree on the fare before departure. If you forget to take this precaution, the driver can set the fare at their discretion.

#7 Protect Yourself from the Sun in Malta

The weather in Malta is one of the archipelago’s assets, but the Maltese sun requires caution.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation on the archipelago is very high, especially during the months of June, July, and August. In Malta, in summer, the UV index is almost always between 10 and 12 during the day , a level considered extreme.

Therefore, avoid sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., a period when it can be dangerous. Equip yourself before departure: sunglasses, SPF 50 sunscreen, hats, etc. Protect yourself as much as possible because your skin’s health depends on it.

Be especially vigilant about protecting children and teenagers, who are more sensitive to the effects of the sun and less aware of the dangers it represents.

Remember to check the real-time UV index before going out.

#8 Do Not Drink Tap Water

Tap water in Malta is technically potable, but it’s partially derived from a desalination process. It’s desalinated and then purified, resulting in water with an unpleasant and indigestible taste due to heavy chlorination.

However, tap water is safe for bathing and cooking, but for drinking, it is recommended to prefer bottled water.

Still Water and Naturale Water

In United Kingdom or Ireland, bottled water is generally mineral water. In contrast, in Malta, you will mainly find “Still Water” or “Table Water”, like San Michel, Kristal, or Fontana, which contain few minerals, notably little calcium.

Mineral water is available under the name “Naturale Water”, it is more expensive. Rocchetta, San Benedetto, Acqua Panna, and Sant’Anna are among the main brands available.

As a tip, for good quality mineral water at an affordable price, opt for the Saguaro brand available at Lidl in Malta .

#9 Exercise Caution in the Nightlife Districts of Paceville and Buġibba

Malta enjoys a high level of safety , with a safety score of 81.8 . The island state ranks twelfth globally in terms of safety, far ahead of other major European countries like France (32nd), Belgium (30th), or the United Kingdom (27th). However, increased vigilance is recommended in the island’s nightlife districts to prevent misadventures.

Paceville, Malta’s notorious nightlife district , is often an essential stop for young people from 17 (the legal age to drink alcohol in Malta) to 35 years old. Vigilance is therefore essential, as incidents in Paceville are legion! Buġibba has also seen several high-profile incidents in recent years.

As in many party places, the combination of crowds, alcohol, and loud music creates an environment ripe for pickpockets and opportunists of all kinds.

Always check the amount on the payment terminal when paying by card. Ideally, avoid carrying your bank card. Keep an eye on your phone and avoid placing it on a table or counter.

Be also aware of the very high volume levels in clubs. Even if it may seem unappealing, it’s worth admitting, we strongly recommend the use of earplugs (earplugs) to prevent tinnitus.

#10 Observe the Swimming Flag Guidelines

The island of Malta, bordered by the Mediterranean, is an exceptional destination to enjoy the seaside, swimming, and water activities. However, to avoid any unpleasant surprises during your stay, it is crucial to observe the guidelines indicated by the swimming flags. To take no risks, follow the golden rule which consists of swimming in Malta only when the green flag as well as the red and yellow flag are raised .

The Meaning of Swimming Flags in Malta

• The Red and Yellow Flag: Indicates a swimming area monitored by lifeguards. These areas are recommended for families.
• The Green Flag: Means that the swimming area is calm and without any particular danger.
• The Yellow Flag: Signals moderate risk. Swimming is still possible but caution is advised due to waves and currents.
• The Red Flag: Indicates high risk. Swimming or water activities are discouraged due to waves or strong currents.
• The Purple Flag: Warns of the presence of dangerous marine animals, often jellyfish.
• The Double Red Flag: Means a formal prohibition of swimming and the closure of the beach, often due to water pollution.

Do not swim when the purple flag is raised. The stings of certain jellyfish (Mauve stinger, Portuguese man o’ war, Moon jellyfish, etc.) are very painful and can leave marks for several months.

#11 Respect the Customs and Traditions of the Island

When traveling abroad, it’s important to respect the local customs and maintain decent behavior.

Traveling to Malta is often synonymous with long-awaited and well-deserved vacations. Vacations that sometimes turn into a form of “letting go” for some travelers, disregarding the rules of propriety.

Being abroad can give the illusion of a certain impunity, but be careful, the reality in Malta is quite different, and the Maltese authorities are uncompromising with vacationers.

For a successful trip to Malta , simply adopt decent behavior. Be courteous, respect the rules, show patience, don’t litter, avoid noise pollution, etc. Behaviors that simply make sense or relate to good manners.

Also remember that the small island country is very Catholic; therefore, avoid behaviors that could “offend Christian morals”, or you might draw the ire of the locals.

Also avoid political subjects with the inhabitants of Malta. The Maltese are very politicized. Generally speaking, half of the island’s inhabitants are firmly opposed to the other on major political issues. This can even be observed within the same family. Topics such as corruption, the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, or the government should therefore be avoided in your discussions with the Maltese.

Frequently Asked Questions Before Traveling to Malta (FAQ)

Can you drink tap water in malta.

Tap water is potable; it does not contain bacteria but is both bad-tasting and highly chlorinated, making it indigestible. It is therefore advisable to only drink bottled water when traveling to Malta.

Is it dangerous to travel to Malta?

Malta is a safe country. The main crime rates are lower in Malta than in most European countries. Malta thus has a higher safety index than France, the UK, Russia, Italy, or Australia. No area is advised against for travelers going to Malta. However, vigilance is recommended in the nightlife district of Paceville, where alcohol and parties sometimes attract pickpockets and opportunists.

Are there jellyfish in Malta?

The Maltese archipelago sees the arrival of jellyfish in periods. Some of them, like the Mauve Stinger, the Box jellyfish, or the Portuguese man o’ war, can be very stinging and cause significant burns. Dangerous jellyfish are indicated by the presence of a purple flag. It is therefore important to respect the bathing instructions of the lifeguard posts so as not to spoil your trip to Malta.

Is topless allowed in Malta?

Going topless or not wearing a swimsuit top is prohibited in Malta and very frowned upon by the island’s inhabitants.

What is the legal age for drinking alcohol in Malta?

The legal age for alcohol consumption in Malta is 17 years. Identity checks are not systematic, and it is still common to see teenagers accessing alcohol before the legal age.

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Epic 7-day Itinerary To Visit Malta On Holiday

Malta is an incredible island to explore. Nestled right in the Med, it’s is filled with thousands of years of history, stunning bays and the most incredible cities that are just too beautiful to miss. So, to help you get the most out of your trip, we wanted to share our bumper itinerary to visit Malta on your next holiday.

Now, you might be wondering if Malta is for you?

Well, let me give you a little snippet of why it should be on every traveller hit list!

First up, Malta (and neighbouring Gozo ) is basked in that incredible Mediterranean sunshine that’s just so good. Not only that, Malta is totally chilled and a great place to visit if you fancy a bout of downtime on your trip.

That being said, Malta is also a jewel in the Mediterranean if you fancy a gander around historic cities and ancient sights. It’s an island that can (and totally does) fit with the kind of trip you’d like.  This is why we keep going back, over and over again!

So, as the island starts to safely open up, we wanted to share some places in Malta that you can’t miss. 

And, as always, be sure to travel safely. Check your government’s guidance on travel and official information from the Maltese Government on any restrictions that might be relaxed or in place.

Take a look, below, at our bumper itinerary to visit Malta on holiday. Oh, and with all our itineraries, feel free to add, take out or follow exactly the places we’ve mentioned – it’s your holiday after all!

Have an amazing time.

Day one: Valletta

As far as Mediterranean cities go, Valletta is a gem to visit!

Unlike other large capital cities in Europe, Valletta is not too big to get overwhelmed and not small enough to get bored. In fact, I’d say it’s perfect for a few days exploring.

After arriving, be sure to take a wander to see the Grandmaster’s Palace and the gorgeous Upper (and Lower) Barrakka Gardens. These are stunning first thing in the morning and a great way to stretch your legs before a day head.

For a sugary pick-me-up, head to Amorino (on Republic Street). Here, you’ll get to sample some of the best gelatos in all of Malta. Trust me, you’ll go back for seconds.

In the afternoon, take a gander around the centuries-old Casa Rocca Piccola in the heart of Valletta. Throughout the day, you can join a guide and take a peek into a classic (and affluent) palace that’s too gorgeous to miss.

Before sundown, pop into St. John’s Co-Cathedral which’s stood pride of place in Valletta since the 1500s. It’s so beautiful and a great way to see some of Girolamo Cassar works. After all, he’s one of the islands most famed architects.

Feeling peckish? Head into the gorgeous cobbled streets and pop into Noni (on Republic Street) that fuses Maltese dishes with a modern flare. Their tasting menu is so delicious for an evening treat.

Read more: Best places to visit in Malta and Gozo

Day two: Valletta

One thing I would say is that you should give Valletta at least one full day to explore (though, we prefer a more chilled two-day trip). That being said, if you’re short on time, you can easily pack in the main sights in Valletta in one day; especially if there are other spots on our itinerary to visit Malta that you just don’t want to miss.

For a morning galavant, head for a stroll around the Grand Harbour area where you’ll get some fantastic views across the bay. Plus, you’ll be easily able to partner up a trip to Fort St. Angelo that has historically protected the city. You’ll need to factor in around 2-hours to fully explore the fort; so plan ahead and arrive nice and early.

For dinner, book a table at Rampila; you won’t be disappointed, especially on their terrace. We had the traditional Maltese Aljotta broth for the first course and loved it!  

Read more: Best things to do in Malta

Day three: Mdina

Nowhere is ever really that far in Malta, which means it’s a great island to traverse and stay at all the Maltese gems. That being said, don’t feel the pressure to keep moving hotels or accommodation each night, you can easily do day trips to all the spots in Malta and stay anchored in one hotel for the whole trip. It’s entirely up to you.

Anyway, where was I… Mdina!

Okay, so Mdina is probably my favourite city in all of Malta and one spot you can’t miss for a day trip. It’s around a 25-minute drive from Valletta and totally easy to visit by car, taxi or tour depending on what you’d like.

Once you’ve headed through the iconic Mdina Gate, be sure to visit the iconic cathedral that overlooks the whole city. It’s stunning and the Baroque architecture dates back years!

That being said, if you fancy going back further in history, get yourself over to Domus Romana; a Roman house that was built around two thousand years ago! It’s a relatively small museum which means it’s a perfect 30-minute visit.

Oh, and don’t forget to grab some of the world-renowned Mdina Glass. It’s so beautiful and you’ll find it all over the city.

Getting hungry? Get yourself over to Grotto Tavern, their gnocchi is so delicious and the restaurant is so unique within a grotto itself.

Day four: Western coastline and beaches

After three days of city-living, it’s time to take in some more of that gorgeous coastline of Malta. So, pack your swimming gear, slap on that sunblock and get ready for a snooze on the sand.

But first, head over to the Blue Grotto, which’s around a 25-minute drive from Valletta (and 15-minutes from Mdina). Once here, you’ll need to get yourself on one of the small boats that’ll whisk you right within the Blue Grotto itself.

That being said, if you’re not fancying the boat ride, head to the ‘panorama’ viewing area that’s perfect at sunset.

The views are stunning.

Afterwards, for a little time in the surf, head over to Golden Bay that’s north of the Blue Grotto. It’s a popular spot for sun-seekers and the kind of place that’s great for a morning dip (or evening stroll).

If it’s a dip you’re after, pop over to St. Peter’s Pool that’s on the coastline near Marsaxlokk. Here, you’ll get to have a little paddle in the gorgeous Mediterranean waters and bask in those views across southern Malta. Just be sure to watch out for choppy waters and only go for a swim if it’s safe to do so.

Now, we found it best to rent a car for coastal days. Though, if you don’t drive, fret not; there are oodles of different touring companies that you can book and include on your itinerary to visit Malta.  

Alternatively, book this Catamaran tour of St Paul’s Bay . It’ll take in the sights of the Blue Lagoon, lots of beaches and little coves around the area. It’s incredible. 

Book: Catamaran tour of St Paul’s Bay and Blue Lagoon

Day five: Hiking around near Popeye Village

It’s not every day that you can say you’ve rambled across an island, but it’s quite achievable in Malta, especially from Għadira Bay to Popeye Village.

After a morning dip at Għadira, pop on your hiking shoes and head off for a ramble around the area.

The walk itself won’t take you long at all (though, you can take in some detours). We checked out the Red Tower that’s just shy of the bay itself (around a 40-minute hike).  It dates back to 1649 and is lovely to see, especially for views.

After heading to the west coast, get yourself over to the totally quaint and picturesque Popeye Village. It’s the historic film set for Popeye’s film that was shot back in the 1980s.

It’s well worth a gander for an hour or so and totally worth including on your itinerary to visit Malta; even if you haven’t seen the film.

Finally, for a great view of Popeye Village, head along the coastline road opposite the bay. The views across the cove is gorgeous from here and you’ll get a great view of Popeye Village itself.  

Day 6: Gozo

Just shy of the northern shores of Malta, Gozo is a smaller island that’s totally worth the short ferry ride to explore! In fact, it’s a perfect day trip when visiting Malta.

Departing from Cirkewwa, you’ll get across to Mgarr Harbour in no time at all. From here, you’ll get to explore all across Gozo and take in some key spots along the way.

One spot you have to visit is Il-Madonna ta’ Pinu, a basilica and shrine that’s as beautiful as they come. Although the basilica isn’t as old as some other sites across Malta and Gozo, it’s still just as iconic.

Afterwards, pull out your swimming gear and drive over to the Blue Hole for a dip! It’s a natural swimming pool that sits just shy of the collapsed Azure Window and is well worth seeing as you follow our itinerary to visit Malta.

Oh, and don’t forget to grab a bite at The Boathouse in Xlendi Bay.

This is the kinda spot that’ll satisfy any seafood craving; especially with their mouth-watering fresh lobster.  

Day 7: Mosta

Before departing Malta, there’s one final (and totally lovely) spot to visit. Mosta!

Only around 20-minutes from central Valletta, Mosta is perfect to see on your final day along your itinerary to visit Malta. Even if you’ve only got a few hours before your flight, be sure to take a gander.

Now, one of the things that make this city so special is the Rotunda of Mosta; a massive basilica that’s actually based on the Pantheon in Italy.

Once you arrive, you’ll soon see why it’s such a special spot, especially with it housing one of the largest, unsupported domes in the whole world!

If you’ve still got time, take a wander over to the Ta’ Bistra Catacombs that’s just shy of the city centre. You’ll get to see a heap of historic catacombs that are pretty unique to visit.

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Getting help

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Malta

Telephone: 112 (ambulance, fire, police)

Contact your travel provider and insurer

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Is it safe to travel to Egypt? Latest travel advice

F ollowing the outbreak of war in Israel and Gaza, the escalation of tensions between Iran and Israel and the activity of Houthi rebels in the southern Red Sea, some people may be concerned about the safety of travelling to Egypt or other areas in North Africa and the Middle East right now.

Here’s everything you need to know about travel to Egypt, whether it is safe to visit, and your rights if you do decide to cancel your upcoming holiday.

What does the FCDO say about travel to Egypt?

The FCDO warns against travelling to large swathes of Egypt. Egypt’s border with Israel and Gaza sits on the eastern end of the Sinai Peninsula, and the FCDO warned against travel to the entire Egyptian border region of North Sinai before the events of October 7 2023.

Last year the FCDO updated its advice to read: “The FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the northern part of the Governorate of South Sinai, beyond the St Catherine-Nuweiba road, except for the coastal areas along the west and east of the peninsula.”

The FCDO also warns against all but essential travel to the Ismailiyah Governorate east of the Suez Canal, much of the Western Desert, the Hala’ib Triangle and Bir Tawil Trapezoid, and to travel within 20km of the Libyan border. 

Most recently, the FCDO updated its advice to say: “On 13 April 2024 Iran carried out military action against Israel. On 19 April, there have been reports of explosions in Iran, and unconfirmed reports of explosions in Syria and Iraq. Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast. Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.”

On Rafah – Egypt’s border crossing with Gaza – the FCDO advises: “Movement to the Rafah crossing and beyond is at your own risk. You should only travel if you judge it is safe to do so.”

Crucially, for British holidaymakers, the FCDO lists Sharm El-Sheikh, Cairo and Hurghada as “green”, which means there is no advisory against travel to these areas and your travel insurance will be valid if you do visit.

You can see the full Egypt FCDO advice here.

Have Egypt’s resorts been affected by the conflicts with Houthi rebels?

The popular Red Sea resorts in Egypt are more than 1,000 miles away from the Houthi airfields that were subject to the airstrikes by the UK and US militaries in January 2024. By way of comparison, this is around the same distance as from England to Russia. Most of the Houthi attacks on shipping vessels have been in the southern part of the Red Sea, around the Bab al-Mandab Strait, although there have been a small number of incidents in the waters closer to Egypt and Jordan.

Is terrorism a risk in Egypt?

The Foreign Office says: “Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Egypt” and lists six recent attacks between 2018 and 2022 which were carried out in Cairo, the Minya Province and near the Suez Canal. The FCDO also warns about political protests, which have occurred more frequently since the outbreak of war in Israel and Gaza.

“In response to events in Israel and the OPTs, a number of demonstrations have taken place in Egypt and protests have been planned, including after Friday prayers. Demonstrations could take place at short notice, with a heavy security presence in place. You should avoid large gatherings, demonstrations and protests. See Safety and security,” the FCDO warns.

Are flights still operating? 

Airlines and tour operators continue to run flights into and out of Egypt. The typical flight path from the UK does not pass through the Middle East, but rather crosses over Italy and across the Mediterranean Sea. 

What if I want to cancel my holiday?

If you have booked a package holiday to Egypt and want to cancel your trip for any reason, contact your tour operator and they might offer flexibility with alternative dates. 

But bear in mind that, because the Foreign Office has not issued any formal advice against travel to the popular holiday resorts in Egypt, there is no guarantee you will receive a refund, nor will you be able to claim money back with your travel insurance company.

If you have booked flights and accommodation independently, and wish to cancel your holiday, contact your travel providers as soon as possible to see if you can rearrange your plans. Note, however, that given the circumstances, it is unlikely you will receive a full refund.

This story was first published in October 2023 and has been revised and updated.

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9 Home Staging Tips You'll Want to Try (Even if You're Not Selling Anytime Soon)

Interior designer and professional home stager Meridith Baer reveals her best advice.

Here, home stager and interior designer Meridith Baer reveals the design secrets that are worth taking the time to try, even if a home sale isn't on the horizon. After furnishing more than 1,800 properties totaling over 7.6 million square feet in 2023, there's no better person to ask than Baer. Read on for her top tips.

Boost Curb Appeal

From lush greenery (Baer especially loves potted plants!) to a fresh, new mailbox , there's no denying the impact of a stylish front entrance. "I like to think of it as a room in a sense," she says. "It's another space to live with."

For her own country home, Meridith decided to hire an artist to give her front door a weathered look. "The rest of my house is smooth plaster, so I just wanted that door to have some character," says Baer.

RELATED: The Best Patio Plants for a Beautiful Outdoor Space

Reimagine Room Layouts

It comes down to two things: How do you use the room and how many people do you need to accommodate? "For example, my favorite thing in the world is to sit in front of my living room fireplace with a girlfriend," Baer says. "In this case, I go for the most comfortable chairs, so if you keep the use of the room in mind, the rest will fall into place."

Go for Statement Lighting

Lighting can make or break an interior. Baer recommends installing dimmers on overhead light fixtures, so they can be adjusted according to how the room is being used throughout the day. "It's a no-brainer and makes such a difference, because you can play with the mood," Baer says. Visually appealing table lamps are worth considering, too: "Interesting lamps at different heights are probably one of my favorite decorative objects."

RELATED: The Best Floor Lamps for Every Budget and Style

Embrace a Neutral Palette

Any realtor will confirm that refreshing your rooms with neutral paint colors is the best approach for luring potential buyers. But it's also a no-fail option for homeowners who enjoy rearranging furniture and decor from time to time.

The best neutral hue to try? Baer is partial to Sherwin-Williams's Emerald Interior Collection in High Reflective White . "I love a warm white, because I enjoy moving and trying things in different ways. I find that if the room is generally neutral — a very, very soft white — you can make anything work."

Clear the Clutter

Clutter can take away from a room's overall aesthetic, and it prevents you from using a space to its full potential. The solution? "Get rid of as much stuff as possible," Baer says. "Ask yourself: 'Is this something I really love? Does it have personal meaning to me?' And if it does, keep it."

RELATED: Try Our 14-Day Declutter Challenge

Display What You Love

At the same time, there's room to show off your personal style. "How do the things in the room relate to one another?" says Baer.

That's the trick for figuring out the pieces of art and decorative objects to showcase in any space. "My favorite look is eclectic — a mixture of things," she says. "If you love something, then it's going to work with other things you love, so be honest with yourself about what you like and don't like."

Create Additional Storage

Potential buyers are keen on finding a home with ample storage. If your space is lacking closets and cabinet space, consider a sideboard. "I put sideboards wherever I can for storage, and then make them more attractive with table lamps," she says. They're a great solution for storing things like extra dishes, napkins, flatware, you name it.

Add Style to the Kitchen and Bathroom

The kitchen and bathroom are key areas in a home. To make them shine, aim to keep decorative accessories to a minimum, Baer advises. "There's nothing like fresh white towels in the bathroom, and I personally love orchids in a kitchen." She also suggests treating a kitchen like any other room — try hanging art or even a mirror."

RELATED: The Kitchen Trends You're Going to See Everywhere in 2024

Bring in Natural Light

Sheer or linen window treatments that make it easy for natural light to fill a room are best, says Baer. In some cases, depending on the nature of your home, you can even do away with curtains or blinds. "I would rather just have windows be windows," she says. "It doesn't give you that claustrophobic feeling."

Monique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping , where she oversees the brand's home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor . In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, "What's in My Cart."

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Home » Malta holidays guide » Where to stay in Malta

Where to Stay in Malta: Best places and Malta resorts

Knowing where to stay in Malta and knowing the different resorts in Malta before you book can make or break your  Malta holiday .

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to suggesting the best places and resorts to stay in Malta, but I’ll do my best to provide you with several options based on my local knowledge.

I’m a tourist-turned-expat and have helped thousands of visitors to the Maltese islands have a memorable trip.

Here’s what I’ve put together in this article:

• A guide to the different resorts in Malta
• Info on what it’s like to stay in different areas of Malta (and Gozo)
• Suggestions for different types of travellers and their general needs

Looking for accommodation in Malta? Have a look at  my best Malta hotel recommendations , check out my selection of 33 Best Malta Airbnb holiday lets or take a look at my overview of accommodation in Malta  for other options!

What are the best places to stay in Malta?

The best places to stay in Malta are:

• Valletta – Malta’s capital, great for culture-seekers wanting to do a lot of sightseeing. Less suitable for beach-goers. A small city packed with history.
• Buġibba, Qawra or St. Paul’s Bay – A cluster of seaside towns with a wide range of accommodation. Good base for sightseeing across Malta and Gozo.
• Sliema – Seaside town in a more urban part with a charming inner town area and wide open sea views.
• Julian’s and Paceville – Busier, urban parts but best for nightlife and dining out.
• Mellieħa – A quieter, more traditional Maltese town in the North, close to the bigger sandy beaches and quieter than the above resorts.
• The Three Cities – A group of three fortified towns, great if you love history and sightseeing. Not suitable for beach-goers and party-goers.
• Mdina and Rabat – The medieval Silent City and its authentic suburb, Rabat offer a quieter and more romantic option for those who prefer sightseeing over beaches.
• Gozo – Second-largest island that’s part of Malta. A lot quieter, more rural, and has lots of natural beauty, bays, and beaches. Great for a quiet holiday or retreat.

Read on for more details and recommended hotels for each of these resorts to decide where to stay in Malta.

Where to Stay in Malta: My Top 8 Resorts and Destinations

Valletta is Malta’s capital city , offers a high concentration of points of interest and museums/attractions, making it an ideal destination for where to stay in Malta. This walled city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was named the European capital of culture back in 2018.

It’s not really a tourist resort, but it is still a popular place to stay and not as busy as you’d expect a capital city to be. Valletta is where some of the best hotels in Malta can be found.

Notes to consider:

• A unique place to stay all year round , full of history and hustle and bustle of a popular place of work for locals with a setting of Baroque architecture all around. Best place to stay in Malta off-season as well.
• Good choice of quality restaurants and you can easily spend 3 full days exploring  what is actually a very small city. More info in  my travel guide for Valletta here .
• Beaches: No beaches in Valletta, bar a few rocky places to take a dip.
• Accommodation: Luxury 5-star resorts and boutique hotels are most popular here, and hard to find budget accommodation. Privately rented apartments offer affordable options.
• Location: Best location for exploring and discovering Malta’s past and seeing its present. The main public transport hub (bus station and terminus, located less than 10 minutes away from the Upper Barrakka Gardens) means you can literally go anywhere in Malta from here. Ferries to Sliema and The Three Cities. Also, the ferry to Sicily (from Marsa, a nearby town at the end of the Grand Harbour).
• Suitable for: Curious travellers of all ages whose primary aim isn’t lazing around at the beach or hanging out by the hotel pool all day. Budget travellers will have a hard time finding a place to stay here, though.

Why stay in Valletta?

• Centrally located,  full of character
• Good holiday base to  explore Malta’s history and culture , hub of local public transport
• High-quality (also luxury) accommodation available
• Good choice of restaurants and (wine) bars.

Things to consider

• Accommodation limited , so early booking is recommended
• Nightlife limited to restaurants and bars
• No sandy beaches nearby – requires a trip by bus with pretty long travel times (1+ hours, for instance, to go to Golden Bay).

Hotels in Valletta: My recommendations

( View all of my hotel recommendations in Valletta here. )

Barrakka Suites

Osborne Hotel

Buġibba, Qawra and St. Paul’s Bay

Buġibba ,  Qawra  and  St. Paul’s Bay  are three villages located along the northern coastline of Malta that border each other, offering various options for where to stay in Malta. Quick notes:

• One of the most popular tourist resorts
• Busy in summer, quiet during the off-season. St. Paul’s Bay, originally a fishing village, is the least busy in summer.
• Beaches:  Artificial sandy beach at Buġibba, rocky beach at Qawra (referred to as  Ta` Fra Ben ) and several smaller spots in St. Paul’s Bay
• Accommodation:  Mix of budget hotels and a few nice 4-star hotels. No luxury resorts.
• Suitable for:  Couple of all ages, families (family-friendly location) and (except for the high season) seniors.
• Location: With the local bus terminus, public transport can take you to pretty much anywhere. You’ll be well-located between the sandy beaches further up North and culture/history-rich places like Valletta and Mdina. You can also catch boat tours to Comino and Gozo from here.

Why stay in the Buġibba area?

• Good for  family holidays  and budget travellers
• Good options for going out
• Good choice of accommodation
• Good public transport connections
• Easy to get to Gozo and Comino  (and the  Blue Lagoon ).
• Relatively few bathing areas. One (artificial) sandy beach, rocky swimming spots otherwise
• Very  little culture  and not really offering a feel of life in Malta
• Busy during summer months, very quiet in winter.

Hotels in the Buġibba area: My recommendations

View all of my recommendations in this area here:

• Best St. Paul’s Bay hotels
• Best Bugibba hotels
• Best Qawra hotels

db San Antonio Hotel + Spa

Salini Resort

Sliema  is another popular tourist resort located along the northern coast of Malta, close to Valletta. Quick notes:

• Popular tourist location all year round. Convenient location to stay in Malta. Known locally as a good location for shopping. Shark contrast between high-rises and busy coastlines and the beautiful and mostly quiet streets of the quaint village core.
• Good choice of restaurants , also pubs.
• Beaches: Only rocky beach areas. Sandy beaches are quite far away.
• Accommodation: Mostly budget accommodations and what’s advertised as 3/4-star needs refurbishment. Look for B&Bs or apartments here to get good value. Good hostels for budget travellers and backpackers.
• Good location for visiting Malta on a budget. Public transport connections are OK. Ferry to Valletta and boat tours around Valletta’s harbours and to Comino and Gozo are the biggest benefits. It’s a crucial point to consider when deciding where to stay in Malta. Look for accommodation on the Valletta-facing side for easy access.
• Suitable for: Couple of all ages and seniors.  Family-friendly , but there are better options.
• Note: Big pain to get public parking, at any time of year. Often congested with traffic. Don’t stay here if you’re looking to rent a car (unless your accommodation offers private parking).

Why stay in Sliema?

• Good base for sightseeing
• Good choice of hotels
• Charming character in the old village core
• Easy to reach Valletta (ferry)
• Gozo, Comino and Valletta are easy to get to from Ferries area
• Long promenade along the coastline for seaside strolls.
• Touristy and built up.  More modern than typically Maltese
• Bus connections good but  long trips to popular places
• Notorious for traffic congestion and lack of public parking
• No sandy beaches
• Not much culture/history around .

Hotels in Sliema: My recommendations

( View all of my hotel recommendations in Sliema here. )

AX The Palace

Pebbles Boutique Aparthotel

Mr. Todd Hotel

St. Julian’s and Paceville

Once just a quiet fishing village, St. Julian’s is located to the West of Sliema and is a resort with two faces: The old seaside town with quaint features (which, like Sliema, features high-rise buildings too) and the nightlife centre referred to as Paceville. If you’re considering where to stay in Malta, St. Julian’s offers different options to suit your preferences. Quick notes:

• Popular tourist location all year round. It’s a busy, more modern part of Malta (far from the fishing village it was once), which is very popular with tourists and youths looking for nightlife and clubbing .
• Good choice of quality restaurants and some really great little bars even outside of Paceville, especially at Spinola Bay.
• Beaches: Artificial sandy beaches at St. George’s Bay (not super clean, despite best efforts of local government) and  Spinola Bay (small). For decent rocky beach options: Sliema in walking distance. Otherwise: 1-1.5h bus rides to sandy beaches.
• Accommodation: The most varied mix of options from luxury 5-star resorts to affordable 3/4-star hotels, privately rented out apartments, B&Bs and hostels for budget travellers.
• Location: Great for lazy resort holidays, good dining out and nightlife. Not great for beaches and exploring. Public transport connections are good, which means you can get to Sliema Ferries in 10-15 minutes. Hop-on-hop-off for quick day trips is also an option.
• Suitable for: Mostly singles and younger couples. Families: Resorts on the westernmost tip or edge of Paceville. Seniors: Be careful not to book in the Paceville area – noisy!
• Note: Looking to rent a car? Make sure that: 1) Private parking is available with your place of stay and 2) You’re a confident driver – this is a busy part of Malta!

Why stay in St. Julian's

• Great place for  dining and relaxed/fun nights out
• Good choice of hotels  – from value to 5-star luxury resorts
• Paceville is  the place for nightlife in Malta
• Central location .
• Busy and not really child-friendly
• One artificial sandy beach at St. George’s Bay, but  not always clean in summer
• Little culture/history
• Incidents and petty crime are not uncommon in Paceville  (mostly drunk brawls and pickpocketing).

Hotels in St. Julian’s: My recommendations

( View all of my hotel recommendations in St. Julian’s here. )

Hyatt Regency Malta

Hotel Juliani

Hotel Valentina

Mellieħa is one of the northernmost resorts in Malta and the main reason for its popularity is its close location to  Mellieħa Bay , Malta’s largest sandy beach. That makes it a great choice for where to stay in Malta.

Although it is a tourist resort as such, and it can get a little busy in summer, the village itself isn’t as busy as you’d think it would be. That could be caused by the beach-lovers looking to stay as close to Mellieħa Bay as possible, but also because of the limited accommodation available. My notes:

• Highly sought-after location for beach holidays and a great overall option for families looking for that type of trip. The village itself still offers a view of daily village life in Malta , not being spoilt too much by tourism as some of the other resorts on this list.
• Good dining options and a few bars around, but not a place to expect great nightlife . A car will offer more flexibility for that.
• Beaches: Apart from Mellieħa Bay, you can easily get to other beautiful sandy beaches on the west coast like Għajn Tuffieħa (also called Riviera Beach) and Golden Bay .
• Accommodation: Focused on 3-star/4-star hotels and resorts. Only one luxury option and a few budget options. Apartments and villa rentals can be found here as alternative options.
• Location:  Great for beaches but for exploration you will want to  rent a car . That allows you to visit other places of interest around the country and even hop over to Gozo (a separate island, part of the country) easily. If you decide to stay up in the village, keep in mind that you’ll need transport to get down to/up from the beach. Some hotels offer free shuttle buses.
• Suitable for: Younger couples and families with kids. Not suitable for people with limited mobility, since Mellieħa is built on top of a hill and has a few steep streets and many steps to get to different street levels.
• Note: Mellieħa Bay gets busy in summer, particularly on Sundays when the locals head to the beach.

Why stay in Mellieħa

• Great for  beach holidays
• Good choice of hotels  (although in limited numbers)
• Good selection of  restaurants  around
• Easy access to Gozo and Comino
• Good  balance between tourism and village life  in Malta
• Not as touristy as you’d expect , in the village itself primarily.
• Limited nightlife  but several bars/pubs around
• A little remote  – not ideal for exploring the rest of Malta, unless you hire a car
• Early booking required .

Hotels in Mellieħa: My recommendations

( View all of my hotel recommendations in Mellieħa here. )

Lure Hotel & Spa

Maritim Antonine Hotel & Spa

Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands

The Three Cities

The Three Cities are a group of three medieval towns located in the north of Malta and facing Valletta from the opposite side of the Grand Harbour.

Whether you opt for Birgu (also called Vittoriosa) , Senglea (also called Isla) or Bormla (also called Cospicua), each of them is a great place to stay in Malta for those who love historic cities, with all the sights and restaurants within a walking distance. Self-catering apartments and houses, as well as boutique hotels, are the main accommodation options in the Three Cities. Quick notes:

• Historical cities that are the first fortified cities built by the Knights of St John in Malta.
• A picturesque location to stay in Malta , with traditional buildings, houses, baroque churches, winding alleys and great views over the Grand Harbour .
• Beaches: The Three Cities are not a resort town and there are literally no beaches. I would not advise you to swim in the Grand Harbour (not the cleanest water). If you were wondering where to stay in Malta to enjoy beach holidays, it is not there!
• Accommodation: A few luxury hotels – don’t expect to find any budget accommodation there. Self-catering apartments and townhouse rentals are another option.
• Location: Great location for sightseeing, with many historical places, museums, restaurants and all the facilities. Downsides: If you rely on public transport, the Three Cities might not be the best choice as it is not very efficient and you will most probably need to change buses. However, the ferry crossing the Grand Harbour to Valletta is a perk.
• Suitable for: Curious travellers, history buffs and couples of all ages who can afford some luxury. Not suitable for travellers looking for budget accommodations.
• Note: You might want to rent a car to avoid struggling with public transport, but make sure your accommodation offers private parking, as parking options within the Three Cities are very limited.

Why stay in the Three Cities?

• A unique place full of history and character
• Good restaurants , especially in Birgu
• Some luxury accommodation options to indulge yourself.
• Accommodation is limited , so try to book in advance!
• No beaches nor decent spots to swim. To get to the most beautiful beaches (located in the north of the island, like Riviera Beach), you need to take a long bus trip (at least 1h40 min).
• Not the best place to stay in Malta if you are solely relying on public transport .
• Limited nightlife , although there are some good restaurants and bars.

Hotels in The Three Cities: My recommendations

Cugó gran macina malta.

BOCO Boutique Hotel

IBB Hotel Palazzo Bettina

Mdina and Rabat

Mdina and Rabat are a must-visit to anyone who’s looking to get to know the main island, but it’s not always an obvious place to actually stay in Malta. Mdina, the Silent City, has a few luxury and boutique hotels. Accommodation is limited otherwise, but with Airbnb and Vrbo, you can find stunning places, and it’s pretty quiet (particularly Rabat and its rural outskirts). Notes to consider:

• Historical and picturesque places to stay in Malta . Perfect for travellers looking for an authentic experience. Mdina sits beautifully on a hill overlooking Malta.
• Less popular and quieter than resorts like Sliema, St. Julian’s or Buġibba .
• Beaches: Mdina and Rabat are not seaside destinations, so the only opportunity to swim or sunbathe there will be at your hotel’s swimming pool. Beaches are not easily accessible by bus (trips of more than one hour and no direct buses, except to Buġibba).
• Accommodation: A few boutique and luxury hotels. Some nice Airbnb and Vrbo options.
• Location: Great location if sightseeing is your priority. Beautiful towns both by day and by night. If you stay in Mdina, you will understand why this fortified town is called the “Silent City”. There are a few restaurants. The area is well connected by public transport thanks to its main bus station (expect long travelling times to other places of interest in Malta though).
• Suitable for: History buffs and couples looking for a romantic vacation. Not suitable for budget travellers or beach lovers.

Why stay in Mdina or Rabat?

• Very picturesque towns
• Quieter than the most popular places to stay in Malta (even though a popular tourist destination)
• Luxury and/or charming accommodation .
• Limited accommodation options
• Definitely not a beach destination
• Quiet at night and not the best place to stay in Malta if you are looking for a lively place with a vibrant nightlife .

Hotels in Mdina and Rabat: My recommendations

The xara palace.

Palazzo Bifora

116 Townhouse

Gozo is the second-largest of Malta’s three islands (the third being Comino), and I like to describe it as “what Malta used to be like” – Quieter and more rural. When considering where to stay in Malta, Gozo offers a peaceful and authentic experience.

• A great option if you’re looking for a quiet holiday  and touring the main island of Malta isn’t a must.
• No particular standout location on the island to stay.  Perhaps Victoria is a little busier than other parts, but then it’s the best location if you depend on public transport.
• Beaches:  Good choice and largely untouched by man. More info here:  The best beaches in Gozo .
• Accommodation: Varied choices from luxury 5-stary to affordable hotels and a few budget options. Self-catering apartments and villa (farmhouse) rentals are popular options that can provide better value for money.
• Location: Great location for a quiet holiday, with plenty to see and do, lovely beaches that don’t get nearly as busy and a good respite away from busy everyday life. Downsides: Public transport isn’t very reliable/efficient, and for accommodation, it’s hard to get value.
• Suitable for: Couples of all ages and families (but probably not with teenagers – very, very limited nightlife).
• Note:  Even if you might not be inclined to  hire a car , I highly recommend you do so. Not only because public transport isn’t great but also because driving there is pretty easygoing, and it just offers so much more flexibility.

Why stay in Gozo?

• Quieter location  than anywhere in Malta, even though summers are always busier.
• Good option to stay for returning travellers  who want to see a different side of Malta.
• Beaches: Raw nature at its best, but only a handful of sandy beaches and more pebbly/rocky beaches. Great for snorkelling and diving!
• If you want to explore, local transport isn’t super efficient or reliable.  Having said that, bikes and scooters are a good solution, with relatively short distances
• Gozo doesn’t have much to offer in terms of nightlife:  Only a few nightclubs and mostly small bars and restaurants.

Hotels in Gozo: My recommendations

( View all of my recommended Gozo hotels here )

The Duke Boutique Hotel

Calypso Hotel

Quaint Boutique Hotel Xewkija

Other (quieter) places to stay in Malta

Looking to stay away from the busier tourist resorts? These are a few options to consider:

• Marsaxlokk is one of the few remaining fishing villages in Malta and – except for Sundays when it’s a popular location for the market and lunch – it’s quiet and quaint, making it an interesting option for where to stay in Malta. Without a car, it might not be ideal though, especially if you’d like to go sightseeing. Not many hotels around but these are great places on Vrbo to have a look at, all well-located close to the seafront: Apartment 1 | Apartment 2 | Apartment 3 .
• Mġarr is a lovely little village on the western side of Malta, close to some of the most beautiful sandy beaches the country has to offer ( Għajn Tuffieħa  and  Golden Bay ). It’s a great location to experience village life in Malta and have a quiet base to explore its surrounding nature from (or to explore Malta by car). The locals are very friendly and helpful and you can get all the basics easily here. You’ll need a short let/rental option here, as there are no hotels in town.
• Marsaskala is a quiet seaside village on the southeast coast of Malta. Although Marsaskala is more remote than the resorts listed further up, it offers a quieter alternative for a relaxing holiday in Malta, with a few restaurants, bars and swimming spots such as St. Thomas Bay. Accommodation options are not much there, though I can recommend: the Akwador Guest House and Portside Lodge . You can also find some nice apartments on Vrbo.com, like this apartment .
• Naxxar , a town in central Malta which has kept its village-like atmosphere, is probably an underrated place to stay in Malta. Yet, this off-the-beaten-path location has a few nice hotels and accommodations, such as Chapel 5 Boutique Suites , an 18th-century property whose spacious rooms are adorned with a travel-inspired decoration, or Villa Selmunett , a well-kept and charming property located on the edge of Naxxar.

Check out my two guidebooks full of local knowledge and my best recommendations for your trip, and up-to-date for 2024 !

Malta & Gozo guide book Valletta : An Insider’s Guide to Malta’s Capital

Take the hassle out of planning your trip to Malta and be an informed traveller!

Where are Malta’s most popular resorts?

You can find the location of Malta’s best resorts to stay in Malta listed above on this map. Keep in mind that distances are relatively short so travel time is rarely a deciding factor on the best place to stay.

FAQs: Best places in Malta for different types of travellers

In this section, I provide quick suggestions for specific types of travellers – to make your search a little easier when it comes to where to stay in Malta.

What are the best places in Malta for couples?

• Good selection of hotels and other accommodation
• Decent choice of restaurants and bars/pubs
• Bathing options around: Artificial sandy beach and rocky bathing areas.
• Well-connected with public transport, boat tours and hop on/hop off.
• Downsides: Touristy and busy in summer, very limited public parking
• Mostly modern, small traditional village core
• A good mix of accommodation options, also the best luxury resorts are here.
• Few places to swim in the sea and far from sandy beaches such as Golden Bay.
• Public transport connections are good but there are better places to stay as a base for exploring
• Downsides: Construction projects are ongoing and the city gets busy easily, also outside of the high season.
• Modern side with high-rises but still has a quaint village core with colourful houses.
• Good for budget travellers looking for hostels and apartments. Hard to get value from 3/4-star hotels.
• Rocky beaches and lidos with pools are good for swimming
• Good for exploring: Ferry to Valletta and boat trips to Comino/Gozo.
• Downsides: Sliema is one of the busiest places in Malta with heavy traffic congestion and notoriously difficult to find a parking spot in.
• If you’re looking to explore Malta and swimming/beaches are less important, consider staying at Malta’s capital city, Valletta . Full of culture and history, great restaurants and wine bars, good quality accommodation and well connected with other parts of Malta through public transport.
• Close to the best sandy beaches in Malta
• Still has the character of a traditional Maltese village.
• Relatively peaceful, although the beach at Mellieħa Bay gets very busy in summer.
• A few nice restaurants and bars around, but not much nightlife.
• Downsides: Can get a little too quiet for some.

What do you recommend for Senior couples?

• Although it’s Malta’s capital city, Valletta is not as busy as you’d expect and apart from good quality accommodation and great restaurants, there’s plenty to explore in terms of culture and history. All bus routes start and terminate in Valletta, meaning it’s an easy place to get around.
• Mellieħa is a charming, quiet village in the north of Malta, with good options for hotels and restaurants and several smaller (sandy) beaches where it’s quieter to swim if Mellieħa Bay (largest beach) is too busy for your liking. I recommend hiring a car if you’re considering staying here.
• Mdina (an old bastion city full of history) and Marsaxlokk (a quiet fishing village on the East coast of Malta) are alternatives to consider as well, although you’ll definitely need to hire a car if you decide to stay there.
• Gozo (a smaller island) is also an option to consider. Quiet, largely rural, yet offering several places to explore, it’s a charming place to stay. Although public transport is available, it’s recommended to hire a car here as well (and driving is relatively easy in Gozo).

What are the best places in Malta for families with kids?

• Without a doubt, Buġibba and Qawra are your best bet. There’s a good choice of hotels around with pool facilities, a good selection of family-friendly restaurants and it’s a safe area. Bathing areas (artificial sandy beach of Buġibba and Ta`Fra Ben at Qawra) are child-friendly and you can board hop on hop off buses and boat excursions in the area. There is also a large playground, the Malta National Aquarium, a cinema and other places of entertainment around.
• If you’re looking for something a little quieter, there are a few all-inclusive resorts close to the beach at Mellieħa you could also consider. Renting a car is recommended here, though.

A lot more on that topic here: Family holidays in Malta with kids .

What's the best place to stay for nightlife?

If you’re looking for clubbing, pub crawls and nightlife, Paceville (St. Julian’s) is the place to be. If you feel adventurous or you’ve got your own transport, there are open-air clubs located in the countryside (surroundings of Mdina and Rabat) that open during the summer months and are a must to party at.

One downside: Drunken brawls are not uncommon here, but as long as you stay out of trouble, you’ll be fine.

What's the best place for a beach holiday in Malta?

If hanging out on the beach and sunbathing are your top priorities, these are the options to consider:

• Staying at Mellieha means you’ve got Malta’s largest beach at your doorstep and smaller (sandy) beaches further up North. It’ll also be easy to cross over to Gozo to check out beaches like the beautiful Ramla l-Hamra beach .
• Want to combine a beach holiday with staying in a proper Maltese village? There are apartments rented out privately in Mġarr and Manikata that allow you to be close to some of the best beaches around and also give you a taste of Maltese village life. You’ll definitely want to rent a car, however.
• Super lazy and not on a budget? The Radisson Golden Sands hotel sits right on the edge of one of Malta’s best beaches: Golden Bay.

Where should I stay in Malta for backpacking?

If you’re looking to backpack through Malta, these are a few suggestions to consider:

• You can find fairly good and cheap hostels in Sliema , from where it’s easy to catch a quick ferry to Valletta (and another quick ferry to the Three Cities) or boat trips to Gozo and Comino.
• Look for short let/rental options in Mġarr , Manikata or Rabat are a great base to explore some of Malta’s natural beauty.
• Gozo is also great for hikes and exploring on foot. You really have two main options: Victoria in the centre (busy but the main hub for the local bus network) or pretty much anywhere else – Gozo is mostly made up of small villages surrounded by nature.

Where to stay in Malta for diving?

A bunch of the better diving schools in Malta are located in  Sliema  and organise reasonably priced diving excursions to the best dive sites around the Maltese islands. (More info here on that topic:  Diving in Malta .)

Gozo  is also a great option with a few family-run diving schools that specialise in the best dive sites there.

Where to stay in Malta in December?

December is one of the colder months of the year in Malta, which means some of the more popular places to stay in summer will be pretty quiet, being mostly about beaches.

If you’re interested in sightseeing, I always suggest Valletta (or the nearby town Floriana) as a great base during the winter months. Also because the choice of restaurants is great. This would also be the best area to stay if you’re spending Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Malta .

For nightlife, it’s very much St. Julian’s (as it is in summer) and its Paceville district, although it is a more urban (and busy) part of Malta.

Nature walks or hikes in winter can be a great way to spend your holiday as well, in which case I’d suggest Mġarr , Manikata , Rabat , or sister-island Gozo.

Decided on where to stay in Malta? Next steps!

Great! Here are a few next steps with more tips and recommendations on how to:

• Decide on when best to go and other tips for your  Malta holiday
• Book your  flights to Malta (and get the cheapest deals)
• Choose from the  best hotels in Malta  and other  options for accommodation
• Explore options to  hire a car and get  tips on driving in Malta

Edward is the Founder and Editor of Malta Uncovered and author of two guidebooks on Malta and Valletta.

As a tourist-turned-expat with Maltese roots, he knows the islands inside out and helps thousands of visitors enjoy a memorable trip every year.

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My wife and I are thinking of spending 6-7 weeks in Malta during February/March, 2018. We enjoy absorbing different cultures and wonder if Malta in the winter would be an attractive option for us? We are both active seniors whose beach holiday days have passed. We are leaning towards Valletta but wherever location we decide, we would like to be close to shopping and sightseeing and are willing to rent a car for our holiday.

Any advice you could give us would be appreciated.

Thanks, Nick

Hi Nick, I think that makes perfect sense and if you decide to push that trip to March, possibly April you’ll get the best of the weather, plus it’ll still be relatively quiet and peaceful. Valletta is a great option as a home base and really and truly with it being the central terminal for the local buses you wouldn’t necessarily need to rent a car. In fact, being a busier part of Malta (on the roads as well) perhaps that’ll be the better option for you.

If, however, you decide to stay in or around some of the smaller villages, particularly those towards the West of Malta (or perhaps even Gozo), a car will make it easier and more efficient to get around.

I hope that helps!

Hi Edward, I have come across your amazing site and feel so lucky to have done so. Wow! Well done it’s a credit to you. I am just in the process of planning a trip for next April/May that will be including just on 1 week in Malta at the end, before we fly home to Australia. I don’t have a question at the moment but am sure to have a few in the future. i just wanted to praise you on your brilliant site.

Wow, thank you for that Lyn, appreciate you leaving a quick note and do let me know if there’s anything I can help with!

I would like to book accomodation in Marsaxlokk in September. What would you recommend

Hi Brian, I’d recommend Port View Guesthouse – Lovely location, modern and gets good reviews.

I will be travelling with a group of friends (max 10) to Malta in July. I think our main needs are to sunbathe & go out at night, and we are looking to stay in a villa. We will want to do culture day trips as well but dont mind travelling to do these! where do you suggest?

Hi Fionnuala, it sounds like St. Julian’s might be the best fit for you, since you’ll be near Paceville, which is the nightlife centre of Malta .

There aren’t an awful lot of villas that I’m aware of in the area that would still be available on pretty short notice, however. I would try Airbnb.com and search for places in St. Julian’s (on the side of Paceville) or Swieqi.

Hi Edward, my husband and I are visiting early June we are staying with family in the south for a few days then want to stay elsewhere for a few nights. We are in our forties but young at heart. We would love to experience authentic Maltese food with a friendly atmosphere day and night. We are interested in historical War Museums. We would like to do a harbour tour and possibly Gozo. Another option is we hire a car and venture Malta, if so is it easy to find car parks at the historical sites? Thank you

Hi LeeAnne, it really depends what historical sites you have in mind. Some offer ample parking, in other places it’s quite a challenge. Happy to guide you further with more info on what places you’re planning to visit.

Hello Edward Wonder if you can help with pointing us to the area which would suit us better. My wife has a bad spine and arthritis, she can walk a bit, but we often get out the wheelchair. This also means really hilly towns are no good for us. We can hire a car or use the buses, but where we stay needs to be flat, ideally a harbour we can stroll along in the evening. Can you suggest what area(s) would be a good idea to look at for basing ourselves ? Many Thanks Matt

Hi Matt, I would consider Sliema or St. Julian’s (avoid the Paceville area towards the West, however) or the Buġibba area.

Is Gżira a good base to stay and explore the rest of Malta?

Hi David, if you’re not afraid of a little walk (to get to Sliema Ferries) it’s not a bad base for exploration. Bus connections to routes coming out of valletta (main hub) are pretty easy to get. If you’re renting a car, however, make sure your accommodation includes private parking as it’ll be a challenge to find a parking spot in the area, pretty much all year round.

Hi Edward, My sister and I are hoping to visit Malta during the Isle of MTV concert. We were wondering where would make the most sense to stay, since we would like to explore the rest of the island too and be away from the crowds wherever we stay. We are hoping to self cater. Thanks! Layla

Hi Layla, I’d have a look at an Airbnb in or just outside Valletta. It’s the capital but most of the crowds around the event will be stuck in traffic or on buses trying to get in/out of the area. Plus, the main bus terminus is located just outside of the capital city.

I’m Charlie I am 54 and planning to go to Malta in May to see family, I will be staying in Saint Paul’s Bay could you please recommend some places to visit while I’m there? I will be in Malta for 21 nights. Cheers Charlie.

Hi Charlie, here’s a good start: 59 Points of Interest, Places to Visit and Attractions in Malta and What to do in Malta and Gozo: 101+ Ideas .

Hi, I’m travelling with my friend on the 27th July this year and we will be staying two full days. We will be going to the Grotto one day and perhaps a tour around the island the 2nd day with a visit to Valetta. We are looking for a lovely spot to stay which has access to restaurants, nice strolls at night and pretty views but where we can also get the bus to places as well. We will be in Santorini for 5 nights, so we will be partied out – so that’s not a priority. My friend said to stay in Sliema, which looks nice. We are looking at the Carlton Hotel in Sliema or the Victoria Hotel – do you know which one would be better for location, views and public transport?

Thank you in advance!

Hi Faye, If budget isn’t an issue I’d actually stay in Valletta. Trouble there is that it’s hard to find low-cost accommodation, particularly at that time of year. If you’re lucky perhaps you can find a good listing on Airbnb, even if it’s just outside Valletta (distances are short!). Valletta is the main hub for public transport, plus there’s a lot to see there.

Sliema is an option but ideally, since you want to visit Valletta, I’d look for something on the side of Sliema Ferries (where you can take a quick ferry right to the North side of Valletta). Public transport isn’t great if you want to go to places like the Blue Grotto to be fair, but accommodation might be a little cheaper. The Victoria Hotel is within a 10-minute walk so that one’s alright, plus it’s a nice hotel. If you’re on a budget have a look at the Pebbles Boutique Hotel and the Waterfront Hotel is also worth considering.

I’m going to Malta & Gozo with my husband in October. He hopes to get some good dives in? We are staying near St Pauls Bay for 3 nights, with 3 nights planned for Gozo & 3 nights elsewhere in Malta, to also dive but also see another side of the country. We enjoy eating out & seeing the country & will hire a car for part of the trip. Any recommendations of places to stay? Can we take the hire car over to Gozo?

Hi there! October should still be good for diving, it’ll just be less busy, so good timing! Seeing as St. Paul’s Bay is a little busier/touristy and Gozo has a character of its own (in a good way!) I’d consider staying at a smaller village like Rabat, Mgarr (in the West) or Marsaxlokk (in the East of Malta). Happy to recommend a place in Mgarr with a host who’s very knowledgeable of local dive sites btw. Yes, you can take a hire car over to Gozo without problems (in fact I definitely suggest you do so, with public transport not being super efficient there).

Hi I love the information you have on this site! I am looking at visiting Malta but am in a wheelchair, where would be the best area to stay please? Needs to be accessible, enjoy markets, shops, stroll along prom, bars and restaurants.

Hi Charissa, thanks, glad you lie the site! That’s not the easiest question I’ve been asked – to give you a safe answer, probably Valletta is your best bet. Although you can find seaside promenades around the St. Julian’s/Sliema and Buġibba areas, it can get pretty busy there around the high season and, unfortunately, local government isn’t always proactive in ensuring pavements are up to scratch and accommodating for everyone. If you decide to go for Valletta it’s perfectly possible to get good transport for sightseeing, though.

Hi Edward! This is by far the most helpful guide I could get for my planning to go to Malta. I’m planning to go there with 3 friends probably this upcoming 22/3-26/3. We plan to see the beaches (but maybe not swim) and have a relaxing holiday, with much sight-seeing in mind. Maybe we would rent a car for that purpose. One friend would love to dive, and we’re looking forward to visit Gozo & St Peter’s Pool as well. We don’t need pubs & bars kind of nightlife, but would prefer somewhere we can easily shop for grocery as we’d prefer to cook at the accommodation. Can you advise us where to stay? Also, would the weather be nice for swimming in diving? Thank you so much for your help 🙂

Hi Farhana, glad the site’s of help! 🙂 Late March will be a little early for swimming usually, though it could be that you’re in luck and it’ll be doable. For diving, unless you’re unlucky to find bad weather, it should be fine with the right kind of gear. Since you’re not too fussy about pubs/bars and that sort of thing I’d consider looking at either Mellieha and outskirts, or places like Rabat and even Mgarr through an Airbnb rental. Happy to suggest a few addresses to check! 🙂

Hello! I’m planning on going to Malta in May for my birthday. Do you know if the water is warm at that time? I would love to have bothad, some nightlife or just some bars/pubs around and beautiful sandy beaches and to do some boat trip or something. We are a couple of 25 years old. Do you have any idea? Love your website. Many thanks

Hi Cláudia, May is right around the time when the weather starts warming up and early bathers start swimming and going to the beach. The water will likely be pretty chilly still though, so you’ll have to suck it up for the first couple of minutes and enjoy the fact that the water will be super clean and it’ll be quiet on the beaches still. 😉 If beach is priority, definitely have a look around in Mellieha or even Gozo (which is quieter than Malta but best to rent a car there!), if nightlife/bars/pubs are priority better go for St. Julian’s/Sliema. You can do boat trips from there but to get to sandy beaches it could take 1-1.5h by bus.

This website is very useful, thanks a lot! My girlfriend and I are going to Malta around mid-April for 8 days, we’re 27 and 30 years old, we love beaches, cycling and exploring nature and historical places. We don’t care too much about nightlife (we live in London!) although as Italians we love good food. We would also like to visit Gozo and Comino. What would you suggest for us? Also, Malta looks very small, do you think we can cycle around and vsit the island by bike? Many thanks again! Regards, Francesco

Hi Francesco, thank you – glad you like my site! 🙂 It sounds like Mellieha or even Rabat/Mgarr might be a good area to stay (in which case an Airbnb stay could be a good option for you as hotels are limited in the area). It’s a quieter part of the country and both Comino and Gozo are within reach. You _CAN_ get around by bike though in Malta I would advise you to be careful and stick to the roads further up North since unfortunately the roads in Malta were never designed with cyclists in mind and the country isn’t known for its courteous drivers, to say the least.

In fact, I would recommend spending a few days in Malta (to do some sightseeing at Valletta, Mdina and perhaps a few other places) and spend a few more days in Gozo. That’s a MUCH better place to go around on a bike and explore nature and some of the sights there.

Hi Edward, So pleased I stumbled on your site, so much helpful advise. We are a couple of Aussies travelling to Malta in June and after reading your info I am tossing up with whether Valletta or Sliema area would suit us best. We usually prefer to stay in self contained accommodation and was wondering if you can recommend any reliable sites to book through ? We will have four days to explore. Thanks

Hi Coleen, I would definitely suggest staying in Valletta if exploration is important to you. Sliema isn’t the best place for that unfortunately.

What is the south of Malta like in the height of summer such as Birzebbuga

Hi Andy, it’ll be less busy than in the North/centre of Malta at that time of year, though with schools closed it’ll be pretty busy with locals. As a location, although I like Birzebbuga as a town, there may be better places to stay. I’d consider Marsaxlokk as well, which will definitely be quieter (assuming that’s what you’re after).

Hello Edward, Wonderful website! Very helpful. My husband and I are going to Malta in January for two weeks. We are from a very cold part of Canada and I will be in Germany for work and we thought we would try and experience some warmer weather while we are in Europe. +15C in Malta is far better than -30C in Canada! We were attracted to Malta because of the warmer weather and the beautiful and diverse culture and nature. We are hoping to experience a little taste of everything Malta has to offer and are open to suggestions on where to stay. We aren’t into very touristy areas but would like a “pinch” of nightlife in the evening – for example go out for a nice dinner and a place for drinks and people watching. 🙂 I’m not opposed to splitting up our accommodation to broaden our experience. Based on my research I was thinking Valletta, Gozo and Mellieha and staying in Air B&Bs. What do you think? Thanks in advance for your help. Best Regards – Erin

Hi Erin, It’ll definitely be warmer than -30 C, and with a bit of luck you’ll get some good sunshine too! 🙂 I think you’re on the right track with those places – Valletta is the first place that came to mind, particularly for culture. Although it’s the capital it’s not as touristy as you’d expect. Mellieha and Gozo are great to explore for nature more than culture. Enjoy your trip!

This is a wonderful site, thank you!

My husband and I are planning to go to Malta from April 21-29/2017. We are big foodies and prefer to be close to great restaurants and wine bars. We also want to be close to sandy beaches. We hate being in overly touristy areas, and want to find the perfect balance between restaurants, beaches, experiencing the local charm of the island without the tourist traps. We won’t have a car unfortunately so will need to stay in an area with easy transportation access. What area do you best recommend? Thanks

Hi Fazlin, April is a great time of year to visit although it’ll probably be a little early in the season to enjoy days at the beach. Usually that becomes much more doable towards the end of May. In any case, I don’t have a perfect solution for you. The St. Julians and Sliema area offer a good number of nice restaurants to try, but then it’s very touristy and busy. Valletta is probably a slightly better option for foodies (and for culture seekers), but then to get to the beach with public transport (buses) can take 1-1.5h and it can be tricky to find affordable accommodation. The Mellieha area is best for staying close to the beaches but there aren’t an awful lot of restaurants around (albeit there are some really great options to try) and not renting a car while staying there isn’t super practical.

Hi, Heading to malta for the first time and was hoping for a bit of a clue as to where is best suited for us. We love Crete, Loutro, Paleochora, also places like Milos and Serifos are among our favourites. We love the small villages that have great swimming nearby, either sand or rocky. Some nice local restaurants would be great but full-on nightlife is not necessary. Quaint and quiet is fine. What would you suggest for us? We are mid-50s, active and will be in Malta end May for 8 days. Thanks!

Based off the info you’ve provided as to your preferences, it sounds like Mellieha and surrounding area could be a good fit. You’ll find some of the largest and best beautiful (sandy) beaches within easy reach and Mellieha offers a few good restaurants as well. Considering accommodation options are a little limited I’d highly recommend booking that as soon as possible, however!

Hi Edward, some fantastic info on your site!

Myself and my boyfriend are getting married in Malta in September next year and went over last April to check out venues etc. It’s such a beautiful country but we couldn’t get over the amount of building work in St. Julian’s. I’ve never seen so much in such a small place! It really put us off staying there. We were only in Malta for 3 days so didn’t get to see much. Are the other resorts like that as well? We would hate to recommend somewhere to our guests that has a building site outside the window. Beaches are not a huge priority but would love somewhere with some Maltese charm and not too quiet as it will be mid September.

Any advise you can give would be great! Thank you,

Hi Sinead, first off – Big congrats! 🙂

I get what you’re saying and agree. Both St. Julians and Sliema are unpredictable when it comes to construction at the moment. I’ve emailed you to get a better understanding of what you’re looking for meanwhile.

Hi Edward we are thinking of going to Malta late September for 7 to 10 days and don’t really know where to base ourselves. Your advice is great for others so I hope you can advise us! We are in our mid 50’s, interested in culture, walking along the coast and in the countryside. We like eating out and going to bars but not interested in clubbing, beach life etc. We don’t intend hiring a car so it would be good to be able to start our walks from either a city/town without having to take a bus if possible, but it’s ok if we need to. We are also interested in a 2 centre stay between Malta and Gozo , but how do we get to the ferry departure points for Gozo, for example if we were in Valetta, is it a taxi ride away? Where would we locate ourselves in Gozo? We are probably looking at staying in 4 star hotels, but staying in an interesting, historical bed and breakfast setting would also do. Any advice welcome! Thank you, Cathy and Gordon

Hi Cathy and Gordon,

This is a tricky one to answer, since you’ve listed quite a few requirements and no location meets all of them. 🙂 The options that come to mind (in order of preference and considering you’re not hiring a car) are: 1) Valletta, since there’s a lot to explore inside the city and along both harbours and you can cross over to Sliema with a ferry quite easily, plus most bus routes start/terminate at the Valletta terminus. The downside is that there isn’t much countryside to explore as you’ll be located at the busier part of Malta. 2) St. Julians/Sliema is a better location if you’d like to stay near the coast, with a long promenade and a variety of restaurants in the area. From Sliema you can take the ferry to Valletta 3) Mellieha is a good location if countryside exploration is more important, plus you’d be staying in a village that’s less touristy

Getting to Gozo is pretty easy with several bus routes taking you up to Cirkewwa (have a look at the journey planner of Transport Malta for routes from whatever place you’ll be staying at in Malta). I usually suggest hiring a car in Gozo to really explore the island and considering it’s much quieter than Malta I would reconsider, especially since local public transport (buses) isn’t very reliable. Stay at Marsalforn to be close to the coast and salt pans, etc, stay at or near Nadur, Xaghra or Qala for some of the better countryside walks, or stay at Victoria (the local capital a the centre of the island) if you prefer being close to restaurants, shops, etc.

Hi there…. Great website. my husband and I have never been to Malta. we do a lot of walking ( just back from Madeira ). we will not be hiring a car so bus connections are vital. is Malta a good place for a walking holiday ? where would you recommend we stay. we do not do night life and adore peace and quiet, Beaches are not important. thankyou Dee

Hi Dee, thanks, glad you like the site! 🙂

Is Malta a good place for a walking holiday? Generally, yes, and the area around Mellieha and Rabat would be my recommendation. Having said that, I’d also definitely consider staying at Gozo, which in general is much quieter (and less developed) than Malta. Bus connections to other parts of Malta are good, although transit times can be a little longer (say 1-1.5h from Mellieha to Valletta). In Gozo public transport isn’t the most reliable but if you’re not in a hurry or too fussy about punctuality it’ll do the job.

Hi Edward, Fantastic website! My girlfriends and I are a planning a trip to Malta at the end of March 2017. We are a youthful group in our mid-40’s to early 50’s. We would like to stay in a place that has access to some swimming (will it be warm enough at the end of March?) and it doesn’t have to be a sandy beach as I see that there are rocky bathing areas available. We would like to be in a location that has good dining and may have some nightlife (not a priority). Since we’ll likely be staying in the same hotel for the entire a week – a location where we can walk around as well as a nice hotel to hang out at (eg. poolside etc) would be ideal. We will likely not rent a car but could either take buses or hire a guide/take a tour to check out other places on the Island eg. Gozo, Blue Lagoon.

In March it’s unlikely to be warm enough to swim in the sea I’m afraid. Usually, the earliest is May and the latest time of year October – not just because of the sea temperature but also from a safety point of view with undercurrents, etc.

Based on what you’ve told me you’re probably best of staying in St. Julians or Sliema. Good choice of restaurants, pubs and other nightlife, long seaside promenade and (at Sliema Ferries) easy access to Valletta by ferry and a choice of boat tours to Comino, Gozo, etc.

Great website Edward! Just wondering if you know anything about camping. We are a party three; myself, my husband and our 8 year old daughter. We are interested in camping in beautiful spots near beaches that would be good for snorkelling. I have researched that I might need to apply for some kind of liscence to camp. Just wondering if you have any tips of advice in this area. Thanks in advance!

Unfortunately I don’t have much advice to offer you on that myself, though if you use Facebook I’m sure you’ll be able to get expert advice from locals in this public group .

I find this webpage very very helpful. It gave me a whole map and great idea of Malta 🙂

Happy to hear that Jill, thanks for leaving a comment! 🙂

Fantastic website Edward! Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. Myself and the partner are heading to Malta for 14 days in July. We are splitting it half n’half with a stay on Gozo. Intend on hiring a car on landing and exploring both islands. We’d love an area quiet and relaxing in the evenings, preferably with nice views…but can’t decide. Thanks for any help you can give! X

Hi Jacqui – thank you, happy to hear you like the site! The first place that comes to mind in Malta is Mellieha. In Gozo it’s a bit tougher to recommend a place because the whole island is pretty quiet and peaceful. The places that come to mind are Xlendi (overlooking a bay) and Marsalforn (both on the coast) or if you prefer something more inland Qala and Għasri.

Hi Edward, this is a terrific site. I have read most of the information, and I am still unsure of where to go. My husband and myself have been to Malta twice now, and stayed at Quara. On the last trip we took my parents, and they had a fabulous time, and would like to go again. We are thinking more in November/December this time, a little cooler. My parents are elderly and very sprightly. There is no need to be near a beach, but would like to see more of the history of Malta. We like to eat out, and explore. Where do you advise us to stay. I await your reply, and Thank-you very much. x

Hi Susan, Thank you, glad you like the site. It sounds like you might want to stay in the capital of Valletta. It’s not nearly as busy as you’d expect from a capital city, you can get anywhere from there by bus, there’s a lot to discover within the city itself and plenty of choice for dinner.

We are a retired couple, planning to visit Malta in November. We would like to explore the Islands during the day, and visit nice bars and restaurants in the evening. we have seen a nice apartment in Birzebbuga, but don’t if there is much there. Could you advise. Many thanks John

Hi John, Birżebbuġa is a tricky one – some people love it, others hate it. Personally, although I have great memories there, I don’t think it’s the nicest place to stay nowadays, particularly at that time of year. I’d much rather recommend Valletta or Sliema to you.

Hi there, I’m going to Malta next month, and even though we’ve booked a place in Sliema, we can cancel without a fee, and I’m really inclined to do that after reading this post! According to your post Mellieha is the place to be. My question is: is that difficult to go around by bus from there? We don’t have a driving license, so renting a car isn’t a option! But at the same time, all the nice beaches are close by, so I was wondering if taxis are very expensive for one beach or another that is not so accessible. We are staying 4 nights in Malta and 3 in Gozo. I would like to go to Valleta, and to some beaches around the island, but 90% of the beaches are on the north. Thanks!

Hi Liliana, If beaches are your #1 priority it’s either Mellieha (quieter) or Bugibba/Qawra/St. Paul’sBay (more touristy) you want to stay at. There are good connections to/from Mellieha but you’ll spend more time on buses to go around simply because it’s more remote. If, again, beaches are most important, you’re good there. If, however, you want to explore other parts of Malta, Mellieha will be quite remote, whereas you’ll get shorter trips from the Bugibba area – you’re kind of in between the beaches to the North and places like Valletta and Mdina to the South/East. In June it won’t yet be swarming completely with tourists in Bugibba, though you can opt to stay on the side of St. Paul’s Bay and you’ll avoid the very busy parts of the area. Taxis can be pretty pricey – think 25 euro for a one way trip from Mellieha to Valletta. Hope you enjoy your trip! 🙂

Thanks, Edward! Beaches are my number 1 priority, for sure! I don’t plan to spend more than 1 day and a half sightseeing.I ended up cancelling the hotel in SIiema and booking another one in Mellieha. I saw there are couple of sightseeing buses in Malta that go to most historical places, and I could go to Bugibba to get it from that, and this would make the trip considerably shorter and quicker! As most beaches I plan to visit are not so far from Mellieha, I think it should be ok. I can use buses and take taxis to shorter trips. I’ll be staying just next to the beach in Xlendi for 3 nights as well, so it will be pretty much a beach holiday. By the way thank you very much for your tips, your website is a bible for whoever is planning to visit Malta!

Sounds like you’re all set Liliana – Enjoy your stay and thank you for the compliment! 🙂

What a wonderful website. Thank you. My wife and I are looking to come to Malta July 2-8. We like a hotel room where we can see the sea. Good restaurants, good strolling and shopping, seeing the cultural highlights. We will not be renting a car, but want to explore as much of Malta as we can on day-trips. Can you offer a recommendation on which town to stay in? We are not on a tight budget.

Hi Joe, thank you – I’m happy you like the site! For sea view hotels, good restaurants and walks you’ll be happy to stay at St. Julians and Sliema (where you’ll find some of the better shops in Malta) I reckon. You’ll also be able to take day trips from the South side of Sliema to places like Gozo and Comino and you can take a ferry across Grand Harbour to get to Valletta. High-end hotel choice is limited at that time of year in Sliema and you’ll find there’s more choice in St. Julians. The downside there is that you’ll need a 10-15 minute bus ride to get to “The Ferries” in Sliema to take day tours and shop (various routes pass from this stretch). Restaurant choice is very good in St. Julians, however (although you’ll find good options just the same in Sliema).

A few hotel options for Sliema: Preluna Hotel & Spa 115 The Strand Hotel

A few options for hotels in St. Julian’s: Corinthia Hotel St. George’s Bay The Westin Dragonara Resort Marriott Hotel & Spa (closer to Sliema) Hilton Malta (closer to Sliema)

I would HIGHLY recommend booking as soon as possible as these hotels are in high demand at that time of year and will be fully booked soon.

I hope that helps and I hope you enjoy your stay!

Hi, We are planning a holiday to Malta between 30 May – 6th June .. and have kids aged 9, 4 and a 9 month old. From reading your very helpful article I have come to the conclusion that perhaps Valleta or Mellieha might suit us best as we aren’t going to be involved in the night life that most of the other places offer. We don’t want to be anywhere too crowded and don’t mind hiring a car get around to explore the rest of Malta. We have also looked at Gozo and are not entirely sure how rural this is and how easy it would be to get to Malta from here. We don’t want to be totally isolated either and /but the kids would love the beaches. I need your advise on what would be the best place to rent Villas / holiday homes as this would suit us best with a baby.

Hi Amber, since you’ll be travelling with the family and the kids will enjoy the beaches, I wouldn’t recommend staying in Valletta, especially not when hiring a car. It’s an amazing place to visit on a day trip but not the best place to stay with a family and with the idea of spending time on the beach, simply because of the commute and the traffic congestion in the area. With Mellieha as a home base and renting a car, you can easily reach different beaches and places like Mdina (a must-visit) are easy to reach by car as well.

Gozo is much quieter than Malta and you would only stay there for the full duration of your trip if you’re not too interested in exploring the island of Malta. The ferry crossing to Malta takes 25 minutes alone so you’d have a pretty big commute every time and especially with kids that won’t be practical. The options I see are: 1) Plan to spend a day in Gozo, which is easy to do from Mellieha (10 min drive to ferries at Cirkewwa in far North) – or multiple trips 2) Split your stay between X days in Mellieha and X days in Gozo, although perhaps logistically that wouldn’t be practical for you either.

This is the best info I have seen about how to explore Malta and thanks for your patience for the questions as well. Tried to read all comments to see if the answer is hidden but still want to ask. We are at early 30’s and will visit at the first week of July for 6 nights with my husband. It is really hard to decide where to stay. Main goal is the best beaches, but would like to see what is to explore in city centre too. so was planning to stay in Mellieha bay or golden by( radisson) for a few days. Then mostly at st julian( corinthia may be) but you say st george bay not clean to swim? Raddison comments say there is not much options to eat out. Is that true? Because we dont plan to rent a car. So i decided on db seabank+spa but requires 5 nights stay. How are the options to go to the blue lagoon, golden or paradise bay from there? Also cruises schedule from mellieha? So we will have one more night to stay in centre, could be st julian for the best? What about masaxlokk side? Seems perfect clean for swimming

Hi Burcu, a few quick replies to your questions: * The issue with St. George’s Bay is that it’s right at the edge of Paceville, which is the country’s main nightlife area. That means that the beach gets dirty pretty quickly, especially during the night. So although the local authorities make a good effort to clean the beach in the early morning I wouldn’t recommend it as one of the best beaches on the island. Is it safe to swim and an option if you’re staying? Yes, it is. Is it the most beautiful/clean beach around? Not in my opinion, no. * The Radisson at Golden Bay is a great place to stay, though aside from the few restaurants the hotel has to offer there’s only one other restaurant on the beach. You’re a little isolated there if you’re not renting a car (which, if you’re staying in that part of the island or at Mellieha is perfectly doable – not very busy at all on the roads, apart from Sundays). * The Seabank was refurbished pretty recently and it’s a nice hotel to stay at, plus you’re right opposite the largest sandy beach. You can reach Paradise Bay and Golden Bay quite easily, although the latter requires a switch of routes at Xemxija and takes around 30 mins I’d say. Blue Lagoon and boat trips you can find at Cirkewwa, near the ferry to Gozo (also recommended) – which you can reach easily and quickly by bus from the Seabank hotel. * St. Julians is nice to stay at for hotel choice and restaurants, although Sliema makes it easier to find boat trips/cruises around the Grand Harbour and to Comino (Blue Lagoon) and Gozo. You also get a ferry connection to Valletta if you want to explore the capital city. Marsaxlokk is very quiet and you’ll be a little isolated without a car I’d say. It is clean for swimming but it’s not the most beautiful beach you’ll find in Malta.

Hi My friend and I are planning on visiting Malta from 11th June for a week, we are in our late 30’s. We would like different options, we would like to visit some of the traditional Maltese villages/towns and experience the authentic way of life and we also want the option on some days of good beaches and complete relaxation, we would like the option of some nightlife (good restaurants and bars with the option to stay out late if we choose too). We are not planning on hiring a car. We would like the option of boat trips and don’t mind a bus trip to a good beach. Can you please recommend the best resort and some good hotels with nice pools? We are looking for comfort but good value for money. Thanks.

Great helpful website 🙂

Hi, the info on this page is absolutely brilliant. My fiance and I are going to Malta 13th May for 7 nights. We enjoy going out, beaches, water sports but want to have an authentic experience of the country. Trying to do it on a budget- but will probably splash out for the last night for fiances birthday. We won’t be driving. I’m considering staying in St Julians for 3 nights,-to go enjoy the nightlife and to visit the Blue Lagoon- is that easy to get to without a car? Might spend the fourth night in Gozo, and 3 nights at the beaches at Mellieha- is that where the nicest beaches are? Any recommendations for somewhere nice to stay there? Is there public transport from Mellieha to the airport..we’d be flying back on a Friday. Thanks in advance! Claire

Hi, me and my boyfriend will be travelling to Malta during week 34 in August and are not sure where to stay. We don’t want to be among loads of tourists or the busiest place with nightclubs, however we do like to go on restaurants and have some choosing options where to eat. We enjoy going on adventures and travel around a bit to get that genuine feeling of the country we’re in. We also like to mix it up with some beachdays and relax. So a little bit of citylife and a little bit f the Maltese countryside I guess would suit us pretty good, or what do you think?

Hi there Emma! Are you guys looking to rent a car during your stay? That makes a big difference as to what to suggest.

Hi Edward. We will be a party of 3 travelling to Malta for 10 days from around 19 July. All inclusive hotel but doesn’t have to be The Ritz just good location/facilities and pleasant food/drinks. My 13 year old son would like a large pool near beach with pool table/table tennis etc where he can make friends. Partner likes a good pool/good food/entertainment in the evening and a location with a few live bars/entertainment etc. Having never been Malta before I’m keen to explore – especially Gozo/Como and the Capital Valetta – hopefully our timing might coincide with a Fiesta? We plan to hire a car. Could you recommend anywhere in Malta which might suit everyone? Thanks, Steph

Amazing website – thank you!

Your help would be much appreciated – you seem to be the guru of Malta 🙂

Myself and 2 of my girlfriends are planning on coming to Malta in August. We would like a destination which has good beaches and somewhere with a buzz in the evening.

We would like somewhere with pretty restaurants to enjoy long dinners before heading out afterwards. we aren’t so fussed about big night clubs but would like to go somewhere we can go to lively bars after dinner, beach bars perhaps?

We are all on our early 30’s, any recommendations on where to stay?

Hi Rachel, thanks – glad you like it 🙂

So it sounds like nightlife is pretty important to you, in which case your best bet is St. Julians, and more specifically the Spinola/Balluta Bay area, NOT the area known as Paceville because you’ll be right in the middle of the busiest part with night clubs. There are plenty of bars and pubs around the area and some great restaurants to try as well.

The only downside is the beaches – there’s no place I know of that offers both good nightlife AND sandy beaches in the same place unfortunately. The nearest bathing area is in the neighbouring town of Sliema (5-10 min bus ride) but it’s a rocky beach. Good for sun bathing, easy to get in and out of the sea, but no sand. The area is known as Exiles. Alternative 1: Go to a lido (there are a few good ones around in St. Julian’s and Sliema, alternative 2: Take a bus to Golden Bay and Ghajn Tuffieha (pron. aajn too-fee-hah) – two beautiful sandy beaches on the West coast of Malta. Bus route is 225 and trip is around 1 hour.

As for timing – if you do plan to stay at St. Julian’s in August, I’d recommend going around 25-28 August. That weekend the local village feast is held – bit of culture, fireworks over the bay, food & drink – you get the picture. Another tip: Open air clubs like Gianpula (and particularly Marrakesh, part of the Gianpula complex) are worth going to. You’ll need to take a taxi, however – probably around 30 euro between the three of you, to and from St. Julians.

Hope that helps!

Excellent information! Really helped me make up my mind Thanks!

My husband and I will be travelling in Spain then across to Malta for a 6 night stay this July. We have never been there before and we are thinking about hiring an apartment but not sure what area would be best for us. We do like to have some nightlife as in bar/restaurant but not really night clubs, we do like to walk every where we can especially out at night , have a choice of dining options and if possible be close to a beach where we can swim. We are 46/47 years old. What area would you recommend that we stay in please?

Hi Jacqui, St. Julian’s (The part adjacent to Sliema) as well as Sliema itself will be good options if you enjoy a little nightlife and good dining. Beaches, however, are limited to rocky bathing areas with. There are no sandy beaches around, but bathing areas in the area are still fine for swimming and sunbathing. If a sandy beach is important to you, you could consider Bugibba (which also offers decent options for dining and nightlife – although not as good – and there’s an artificial sandy beach) or Mellieha, which is closest to some of the best beaches on the island but then nightlife is pretty limited, despite there being some great options for dining. You’ll be better off hiring a car if you choose to stay here, however, as it is a little remote. You’ve also mentioned to me separately the wish for accommodation with character/history. Your best bet in that case is probably Valletta, which is also good for dining/nightlife, and although no sandy beaches are nearby you can reach any beach of your choice pretty easily with the main bus terminal sitting right outside the city. For accommodation, you’ll mostly find modern buildings in Sliema and St. Julian’s (also Bugibba/Qawra). I hope that helps!

Very good points to help choose a location Thanks

This information is the difference between a really enjoyable family holiday or a 2 week nightmare. I really appreciate this, thank you very much

Glad it’s helpful to you, Anthony! 🙂

This is extraordinarily helpful information. Thank you very much!

I found this concise Guide to Malta a great help, never having stayed in Malta before. Thank you.I think Sliema would suit us best. Now to choose a hotel!

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Readers’ favourite trips in Germany: ‘We wandered every cobbled street and climbed every gothic tower’

From the Baltic to Bavaria, via Berlin, our tipsters enjoy epic scenery and architecture, culture and steins of fabulous German beer

Literary Lübeck

Lübeck – Queen of the Hanseatic League – has a fading charm and vulnerability absent from the likes of Berlin, Munich and Hamburg … and most of Germany. I loved my trip there, wandering the cobbled streets, climbing every brick gothic church tower – generally alone! Thomas Mann wrote the unbearably sad novel Buddenbrooks there, then fled to the US from nazism in 1939. The Tin Drum author Günter Grass lived and worked in Lübeck in later life. Visit their former houses, now museums, the Grass-Haus and the Buddenbrook Haus . A singular German city, full of history and significance. Martin Charlesworth

Gothic marvel of Marburg, Hesse

Marburg, the small, ancient university town about an hour by train north of Frankfurt, is a fairytale destination, not least because it was once home to the Brothers Grimm . Every cobbled lane leads uphill to the castle, which looms above Marburg’s timber-framed Oberstadt. The castle was host to Martin Luther in 1529, and the Elisabethkirche, one of Germany’s earliest gothic churches, was an important medieval pilgrimage site. One of the main attractions is at the town hall, where, at midday, locals and visitors congregate to witness a brass cockerel (the Gockelhahn ) flap its mechanical wings to mark the hour. Anna

Brilliant viewing tower, Stuttgart

For a viewing tower that outdoes Berlin, take one of the little yellow trams, which then become a funicular, up Stuttgart’s spiralling streets. The views from the tower towards the Black Forest are stunning, and the external viewing platform will have you wondering whether it is gently swaying, or if it’s just your knees wobbling. Stuttgart is a leafy city with great art at the Kunstmuseum and archaeological finds at Landesmuseum Württemberg , and the Swabian cuisine and wines in the local Weinstuben are lighter and tastier than in many other major cities. Tim Proctor

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Guardian Travel readers' tips

Every week we ask our readers for recommendations from their travels. A selection of tips will be featured online and may appear in print. To enter the latest competition visit the readers' tips homepage

Monastic day trip from Munich

About 25 miles south-west of Munich is Andechs Monastery – Bavaria at its most idyllic and authentic. Sitting atop Ammersee (Lake Ammer), this Benedicitine monastery and pilgrimage church is popular for its brewery, restaurant and beer garden. It makes the perfect day out: take the S-Bahn from Munich to Herrsching, then hike 40 minutes gently uphill through lovely forest. On arrival, reward yourself with steins of great beer and Bavarian fare. Call into the beautiful St Martin’s church on your way back down to Herrsching, where you can have an ice-cream by the shores of the lake (or take a dip) and watch the boats before returning to Munich. Sonutschka

Culture and art in Nuremberg

If you can, spend time in the beautiful city of Nuremberg, with its amazing museums: the Germanische Nationalmuseum is the equivalent of the British Museum and is the largest German cultural history collection. The Neues Museum has an impressive collection of paintings by renowned visual artist Gerhard Richter and the Zukunftsmuseum is a great science museum. Stay at the Karl August hotel (doubles from €159 room only) with its stunning modern design, spectacular spa area, friendly staff and delicious breakfast (€28, served – instead of buffet – to minimise food waste). Till

A bike ride by the Baltic via Rostock

I had a brilliant time in Germany last summer cycling the Baltic Sea Cycle Route . I put my own two-wheeler on the train at Birmingham and got off in Wismar, northern Germany, then followed the well-signposted route around the charming seaside village of Kühlungsborn. I stopped for a bit of beach time at Warnemünde and had some sardine sandwiches and delicious soft Baltic Berry ice-cream from simple seaside cafes. Rostock is a lovely Hanseatic city with some stern old stone buildings. From here I put my bike on a ferry to car-free and calm Hiddensee island for a couple of quiet nights. Going back to the mainland, Sellin welcomed me with grand elegant villas and an art deco-style 1920s pier and a great footpath under the striking chalk cliffs of the Jasmund national park. I finished my trip by sitting on the white chalk “King’s Chair” (Königsstuhl) cliff, gazing out to sea – feeling like a king. Bill

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Touring Reformation country south of Berlin

In 1517, Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the door of the Schlosskirche in Wittenberg , forever changing the western world by kicking off the Reformation. Exploring this corner of eastern Germany will reveal beautiful towns and vibrant cities rarely visited by western tourists. Wittenberg, 60 miles south-west of Berlin, itself is a medieval marvel on the River Elbe. Off the beaten track is Eisleben, a half-timbered town where you can visit Luther’s birthplace. The Wartburg is an imposing castle towering over Eisenach. Finish your trip in Halle , a vibrant university city near Leipzig. Luther’s death mask can be seen in the Market Church, where he also gave some sermons. Here, another great German, composer George Frederick Handel, was baptised and played the church’s organ when studying. Wilhelm Friedemann Bach, eldest son of Johann Sebastian, was organist here from 1746 to 1764. Nick

Punk ethos and Turkish delights, Kreuzberg, Berlin

Berlin’s large Turkish community has left an indelible mark on the culinary and artistic culture of the city as a whole, and it is in the neighbourhood of Kreuzberg where this unique fusion is best experienced. Start with a meal at Mardin restaurant , which serves the best kebabs I’ve had outside Turkey, along with perfectly frothy ayran – a salty yoghurt-based drink. Afterwards, find a concert at one of many characterful venues. SO36 , named for the area’s cold war era postcode, began life as a punk venue, but has now also become a centre for Turkish and queer culture – I was fortunate enough to see the psychedelic pop singer Melike Şahin here. The venue has retained its punk ethos and remained firmly rooted in the local community while also playing host to Turkish and other international stars in a wonderfully intimate, hole-in-the-wall setting, which wears its history of artistic and political radicalism with great pride, epitomising the multicultural Berlin with which I fell in love. Bruno

Cologne beyond the cathedral

I really enjoyed Cologne while visiting my daughter. It’s such a relaxed city, with a large student population. Away from the incredible gothic cathedral – Germany’s most popular attraction – there’s history to be discovered in all sorts of places that are best explored by bike on cycle lanes and routes through numerous parks. The city museum , Kölnisches Stadtmuseum, which recently moved to Minoritenstraße, is a good start. Some places are beautiful, such as the botanical garden with its French baroque, English landscape and Italian renaissance spaces. Others are less so, such as the brutalist Kirche Christi Auferstehung (Church of the Resurrection) until you step inside. It’s very thought-provoking, typical of a city shaping its future from a difficult past. And there are the art museums, concert hall, the Rhine and two parkruns. Mark Anstee

Winning tip: oompah bands and lager on Königssee, Bavaria

Last summer my partner and I camped and railed around Germany, utilising the €49 Deutschland-Ticket offering unlimited public transport, countrywide, for a month. A highlight was exploring Königssee in the Berchtesgadener national park, Bavaria. This small resort offers fantastic hiking and biking routes of varying difficulty levels. In summer, whether you have climbed on foot or taken the Jennerbahn cable car , beer garden season is in full swing so you can toast atop the mountain with an oompah band playing and a cold stein in hand. Königssee lake is fed by icy-clear glacier water, ideal for an invigorating swim, and you can explore further into the park by boat. Campsite Mühlleiten is 40 minutes by bus from Salzburg and connected by rail to Munich (Berchtesgaden station is a 40-minute walk away, or 10 minutes on the bus). Enjoy, and try the Berchtesgadener hell ! Becky

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