Malta is a stunning island nation in the southern Mediterranean that’s packed with incredible things to see. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or staying longer, there’s plenty to explore. In this guide, we’ve gathered the top attractions in Malta that you can easily include in your itinerary, even on a short trip. These highlights offer a great glimpse into both the island’s vibrant culture and its fascinating history.
Best of all, you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy these spots. They’re all easily accessible by public transportation, no car rental needed.
What to See in Malta – Highlights at a Glance
Here’s a quick list of the recommended sights. Click the links to learn more about each one later in the article.
- Valletta (the capital)
- Blue Lagoon
- A sandy beach
- A prehistoric site (e.g., Ħal Tarxien / Ħaġar Qim & Mnajdra)
- Mdina & Rabat
- The island of Gozo
- Sliema
- The Three Cities
- Marsaxlokk fish market
- Try the local food at least once (e.g., Maltese rabbit)
Valletta
Malta’s capital, Valletta, is a true gem—unlike any other capital city in the world. As you walk through its streets, you’ll notice the absence of modern buildings, and the sea is never more than a 20-minute walk away in any direction.
You can explore the whole city in just a few hours. But if you want to visit museums or relax at a local café and soak up the city’s lively vibe, plan to spend a full day here.
Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is arguably Malta’s most beautiful natural wonder, located on the island of Comino. It’s a must-see while you’re in the area. This nearly uninhabited island lies between Malta and Gozo, and the only way to get there is by boat, usually through private tour operators.
Set aside 3 to 4 hours for your visit. But if you want to swim in the incredibly blue water or wander through Comino’s peaceful, rugged terrain, you could easily spend half a day.
You can read about our own trip to Comino and the Blue Lagoon by clicking the link.
A Sandy Beach
If you’re in Malta, no matter your reason for visiting, you should definitely take time to enjoy a swim in the Mediterranean Sea.
Whether you’re here for beach time or sightseeing, you’ll find amazing sandy beaches across the islands. They’re free to visit, and many are easy to reach by public transport. Whether you spend a whole day basking in the sun or just dip in for a quick evening swim, it will be a memorable part of your Malta trip.
A Prehistoric Site (e.g., Ħal Tarxien / Ħaġar Qim & Mnajdra)
If you’re curious about Malta’s ancient history, be sure to visit at least one prehistoric temple site. You’ll be walking among stones that are thousands of years old—spiral carvings, altars, and giant blocks that give you a real sense of what ancient ceremonies might have been like.
Ħal Tarxien is easy to reach and makes a great introduction, while Ħaġar Qim & Mnajdra offer sweeping sea views and are connected by a short walking trail.
It’s best to go during cooler hours, bring water, and check the opening hours. If you’re near the southern cliffs, combine Ħaġar Qim & Mnajdra with a boat ride to the Blue Grotto. Tarxien is a short ride from Valletta. These sites are brief visits but incredibly memorable—Malta isn’t just about beaches, it’s also home to an exceptional prehistoric legacy.
Mdina & Rabat
Mdina is known as the “silent city”—a walled hilltop town with narrow alleys, palaces, and ramparts. It offers a completely different feel from the coastal areas—time really does slow down here. The views from the city walls are especially beautiful at night when the lights come on.
Right next door is Rabat, perfect for a short walk. You’ll find churches, cozy squares, cafés, and even underground catacombs. Try to arrive in the late afternoon and stay through sunset on Mdina’s walls. Wear comfortable shoes and if you’re driving, park outside the city walls. If you have time, add a quick stop at the nearby Dingli Cliffs for a stunning sunset view.
The Island of Gozo
Gozo has a different vibe—slower pace, more greenery, dramatic coastlines. It’s the perfect place to unwind during your Malta trip. You could spend a whole day exploring or, if you only have half a day, still fit in sightseeing, a beach walk, and even a swim. Combine it with a Blue Lagoon tour for a full, varied day.
Don’t miss the panoramic views from the Citadel in Victoria (Rabat), the rock formations and Blue Hole in Dwejra Bay, or the sandy beach at Ramla Bay. For dinner, head to Xlendi or Marsalforn. If you’re into history, Gozo also has prehistoric temples worth visiting.
Getting there is easy: a short ferry ride from Malta, or a fast ferry from Valletta for foot travelers. The island has a good bus system, but it runs at a relaxed pace, so plan ahead. For more flexibility, rent a car or scooter. Allow at least half a day—a full day is even better if you want to swim and enjoy dinner.
Sliema
Sliema is located just across from Valletta to the north and is a popular base for tourists. A long seaside promenade connects it to St. Julian’s, lined with cafés, ice cream shops, and scenic spots. A quick ferry ride takes you to the capital. The area is urban, full of shops and restaurants, and has a lively but comfortable vibe. It’s a great spot for an afternoon stroll or sunset viewing.
You can swim here too, though it’s more of an urban beach setup with ladders and rocky platforms. Some lido-style spots offer sunbeds and showers. If you’re looking for sand, head toward St. Julian’s or take a bus to one of the sandy bays. If you want a lively, well-equipped coastal town, Sliema is a must—and a great base for exploring Malta.
The Three Cities
The Three Cities—Birgu (Vittoriosa), Senglea (Isla), and Cospicua (Bormla)—are historic areas across the Grand Harbour from Valletta. Think narrow alleys, stone homes, little balconies, waterfront promenades, and marinas—with fantastic views of Valletta. The atmosphere is calmer, giving you a more local feel than the bustling capital.
Birgu is the easiest to explore: the marina, the waterfront promenade, and Fort St. Angelo on the hill make a great combo. In Senglea, visit the Gardjola Gardens and look back across the water at Valletta’s bastions. In Cospicua, you’ll find quiet residential streets and churches—a peaceful, authentic slice of Malta. You’ll find plenty of waterfront cafes and restaurants, especially charming at sunset.
The easiest way to get here is to take the Barrakka Lift down to the waterfront in Valletta, then catch a short ferry to the Three Cities. Buses are also an option, but the ferry is faster and more scenic. Plan to spend at least 2–3 hours walking around—or half a day if you want to visit a museum like the one at the fort.
Marsaxlokk Fish Market
One of the most colorful experiences in Malta is the Sunday fish market in Marsaxlokk. Brightly painted luzzu boats fill the harbor, while vendors sell fresh fish, seafood, local produce, and handmade goods. The vibe is pure Mediterranean—browsing, sampling, morning coffee by the sea, and fishermen unloading the day’s catch.
Get there early for the best selection and to beat the crowds. After the market, grab lunch at one of the many waterfront restaurants—grilled fish, calamari, mussels in every form. If you have time and energy, combine your visit with a stop at St. Peter’s Pool, a natural swimming spot with crystal-clear water and rocky edges. Even if you’re short on time, consider a quick boat tour from the harbor to explore the southern tip of the island.
Try the Local Food at Least Once
It might not be a typical “sight,” but tasting Maltese food is a must while you’re here. Many great restaurants overlook the sea or are tucked into vibrant city centers, making your meal part of the experience. Watch the local and tourist scene unfold as you savor every bite.
Malta wouldn’t be the same without its famous rabbit stew (stuffat tal-fenek), which you’ll find on nearly every menu. Don’t miss it! If you prefer something lighter, seafood lovers will be happy with the wide variety of delicious local dishes.