Malta top Things to do

Explore The Islands Best Things To Do

Are you ready to explore the top things to do in Malta and have an amazing time?

We invite you to dive into our guide and find out what excitement and adventure await you!

Visiting Malta for one, two, three, four days or even a week? On such a small island like ours, with everything so close to each other, you will waste little time to change locations. You will have more time to enjoy the island’s fantastic sights.

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Whether you are a first-time visitor or lived here since you were born, you will discover a variety of things to do in Malta. The island is a family-friendly location where there are plenty of things to do for kids.

Need a bucket list for Malta? These are our suggestions for the top bucket list of things to do in Malta.

Do you want a list of more than 50+ things to do in Malta, then here it is.

If you are coming for a romantic holiday then here are some suggestions for some romantic locations on the island.

Visit the grid-like roads of the capital Valletta

A typical street in Valletta, MaltaSt. John Street, Valletta

Valletta was built by the Knight of St. John in 1566 was a fine example of modern city planning. The first European city built on an empty site. It is worth visiting. Get a Valletta travel guidebook. Walk around the streets. You can stop at a restaurant or cafe at many locations around the city.

Things To Do In Valletta

  • St. John's Co-Cathedral: A richly ornamented high Baroque architecture Co-Cathedral. A highly recommended location to visit.
  • The Grandmaster's Palace and Armoury: The palace state rooms are richly decorated showing the grandeur of the Knights of St. John buildings including the armoury where you find an impeccable collection of armour and weapons.
  • War Museum: St. Elmo, the fortress where the film Midnight Express was filmed in 1978, now houses the In-Guardia Re-enactment and the National War Museum.
  • Fortification Centre: Walk along the many fortifications of Valletta and Floriana. Visit the Fortress Builders at the Fortifications Interpretation Centre.
  • History Timeline: A visit to The Malta Experience at the Mediterranean Conference Centre Valletta, an audio-visual show will provide you with our history's journey.

If you still need more ideas of what to do, we have another 20 more suggestions of things to do in Valletta.

Visit the medieval capital Mdina

A Bougainvillea house in a small square in Mdina Malta.A Small Square in Mdina Malta

Walk along the narrow streets of Mdina with beautiful large houses and palaces built by late Maltese rich families who used to live here when it was once the capital city of the islands. Visit the silent part of the old fortified city with 4000 years of history. Lamp lit at night, the old capital of Malta is fascinating to visitors for its timeless charm.

Things To Do In mdina

  • Spend a Day Here: Mdina is very small but there are enough things to see and do for the whole day. As a part of your day trip, you can also visit the village of Rabat.
  • Mdina Cathedral: The Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Paul is popularly known as St Paul's Cathedral. Located in approaching from the main road.
  • Mdina Glass: At Ta’ Qali crafts village you can see various displays to buy ornamental glass. A tour around the factory will show you how it is done.  Various shops around the island sell this glass. 
  • Mdina Dungeons: It portrays events from the dark side of history a long time ago. The only dark attraction is walking on the islands.
  • Mdina Experience: A 30-minute audio-visual multi-language showcases the rich and complex history of the old capital. The Mdina Experience is a great opportunity not to miss.
  • Delicious Cakes: At Fontanella Tea Garden at Mdina. Getting a table on the upstairs deck at the edge of the fortifications for a beautiful view of the island.
  • Karozzin Ride: Take a ride with the traditional karozzin. You can find them outside Valletta, Sliema/St. Julians, Rabat/Mdina and Bugibba/Qawra.

Being a very old fortified city there are quite a few museums and old architecture to see across the streets. Find more things to do in Mdina.

Eat the famous Pastizzi while visiting rabat

Typical old houses at Rabat MaltaThe town of Rabat in Malta

While visiting the town of Rabat, stop by the famous pastizzi place called 'Serkin'. Pastizzi is one of the most famous Maltese foods on the island. Rabat just a couple of minutes away from Mdina, has a different charm than the rest of the villages.

Things To Do In rabat

  • Domus Romana: popularly known as the Roman Villa, discovered in 1881 shows how the Romans used to live during their rule in Malta. You find beautiful Roman mosaic pavements. It is a fine example of a Roman building not to be missed.
  • St. Paul’s and St. Agatha’s catacombs: They are the most elaborate catacombs on the islands. All are dug from natural underground limestone covering an area of 6100 square metres.
  • St. Dominic's: St. Dominic's Church and Priory at Rabat is a magnificent historical place to visit. You can visit the church and the garden although privately owned. A must-visit if you are visiting this town. It was part of the set for the "Game of Thrones" Red Keep gardens.
  • Parish Church: The Basilica of St. Paul is a Roman Catholic Parish church lying in the centre of this town. The church is open during mass times mostly in the morning and the afternoon.

Visit the marsaxlokk market and Blue Grotto Caves

Entrance to the Blue Grotto CavesBlue Grotto Malta Caves - Photo By Silvija Copak (@silly.silvi)

Wied iz-Zurrieq, many people know it as Blue Grotto the famous caves of the island. The 20-minute boat trip to the caves is visited by over 100,000 people. A few kilometres away is the fishing village of Marsaxlokk. 

Things To Do In Marsaxlokk and Blue Grotto

  • Marsaxlokk: Mingle with locals and fishermen at Marsaxlokk village. The colourful fishing boats, the open daily market. Plenty of restaurants. 
  • Traditional Boat: They can be seen at Marsaxlokk, Birgu, Gnejna Bay, Marsaskala, Wied Iz-Zurrieq and Gozo.
  • Blue Grotto Caves: You can take the Blue Grotto boat trip at Wied iz-Zurrieq. Then take a meal at one of the local restaurants.
  • Restaurants: When visiting the site, eat or have a-supper at one of the Blue Grotto Restaurants, which serves traditional Maltese cuisine mixed with Mediterranean cuisine.
  • Diving & Wrecks: At Wied iz-Zurrieq, you find the popular wreck of Um El Faroud which sunk in September 1998. Many divers like to scuba dive and witness the wreck and the coral reef around it.

Explore Malta by taking a tour

Blue Grotto Malta beach - Comino IslandThe Blue Lagoon, Island Of Comino - Archipelago of Malta

Did you know that you can take a tour of Malta? Our island offers some of the best tours giving you the chance to explore many sights. A mix of boat tours, sightseeing, cruise tours, jeep safari and also ghost tours in Valletta and Mdina.

best tours on the maltese islands


  • Hop On Hop Off: Sightseeing in Malta is a good way to see the most important attractions on the islands. Hop on hop off at your leisure with North Blue and South Red tours. This is one of the most Malta's top things to do.
  • Sea Adventure Cruise: Enjoy a fantastic day for an endless memory on the Sea Adventure Cruise. Carefully planned to help you benefit from the best Malta can offer.
  • Game of Thrones: An American fantasy drama which was partly filmed in Malta for Season 1. It is a hit with people who come over specifically to see the filming locations.
  • Mdina Night Tour: Take a Mdina night tour for a relaxing tour around the streets and historic buildings. Most streets are pedestrianized ideal for an evening tour.
  • Hypogeum: Malta’s Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum is one of the world’s best-preserved prehistoric locations. An underground burial site dating back to 4000 BC. Book early, not to be disappointed.
  • Harbour Cruises: There are several Malta cruises around the island including trips to the islands of Comino, Gozo and Sicily.
  • Round Malta Tour: Circle around the island on a boat and witness all the beautiful coastline with an additional stop at the Blue Lagoon in Comino.

Explore the mix of quiet and ambience of Gozo

Mgarr Harbour in Gozo.Mgarr Harbour in Gozo

Gozo is a second island to the Maltese where many go up for a holiday. It is also the second largest in the Maltese archipelago. Once you arrive on the island you will not want to leave due to its beautiful scenery and quiet surroundings. Tiny Gozo is just a 20-minute ferry ride from Malta and has a population of 37,000 people. So quiet.

what to do on the island of gozo

  • Dwejra Bay: Whoever goes to Gozo will surely go to the Dwejra Bay where the Azure Window once stood. It is an enchanting location ideal for walks and memory photos.
  • Countryside Walks: With all the greenery in Gozo, a beautiful walk in the countryside is a must, especially during the winter months. Here are some of the best hiking trails in the country.
  • Ggantija Temples: UNESCO has designated the Ggantija Temples as a World Heritage Site, a unique prehistoric monument in Gozo, with two structures built between c.3600 and c.3200 BC.
  • Marsalforn: Marsalfrom is one of the most popular locations for accommodation, summer residences, beaches and restaurants. In summer it comes to life with locals, Maltese and tourists.
  • Mixta Cave: Hidden high up in the fields, Mixta Cave is the place from where you can have a fantastic view of Ramla Bay, the valley and the surrounding sea.
  • Citadella: The Citadel with its imposing fortifications visible from almost all of Gozo stands out as a major landmark It is an ancient fortified city which has been occupied by man since prehistoric times.
  • Ta' Pinu Sanctuary: ‘The Blessed Virgin of Ta' Pinu’ church is located on the outskirts of the village of Gharb. It is a national shrine which is visited by almost every person who goes to the island of Gozo.

With such a small island in the Mediterranean, there is no shortage of things to do in Gozo.

Swim at one of our marvelous beaches

Golden Bay beach in summerGolden Bay Beach in Malta

Swim at the best beaches on the islands of Malta and Gozo. Swim in the crystal clear sea surrounding the islands. You find a mix of rocky and sandy beaches. Make this one of your top things to do. The island’s weather offers many sunny days. Sunbathing is not only between June and August. From April the weather starts getting warm. Avail yourself to enjoy the sun.

the best beaches in malta and gozo

  • Mgarr ix-Xini: A few years ago Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt spent several months on the island of Gozo, the setting for "By the Sea," a film directed by Jolie. It was partly filmed at Mgarr ix-Xini Bay.
  • Paradise Bay: A day at Paradise Bay opposite the Gozo ferry terminal at the far north of the island. A secluded and romantic beach for a complete rest cut off from everything.
  • Xorb l-Ghagin: South of the island rocky beaches Xorb l-Ghagin, Delimara, and St. Peter's Pool provide a clean, blue fresh sea ideal for a quiet swim in the deep sea.
  • Xlendi Bay: Enjoy a good swim at Xlendi Bay Gozo. Have a meal at any time especially in the evening along the promenade restaurants.
  • St Peter's Pool: St. Peter’s Pool is a very popular rocky bay where foreigners come to Malta purposely to swim. It is located in the south of the island. It is a natural beauty with beautiful clear water.
  • Ramla Bay: The bay is popular for its golden-reddish sand. It lies at the end of a fertile valley with the village of Xaghra as the closest village. Enjoy the tranquillity of the surrounding landscape.
  • Ghadira: Ghadira Bay better known by foreigners as Mellieha Bay, lying in the north of the island. It is the longest sandy beach on the island extremely popular for its shallow sea level for the first 20 metres. Ideal for children and many who love to play ball and freebee.
  • Golden Bay: Golden Bay is a fantastic sandy beach, lovely with its natural surroundings. It is great to come here for swimming and sunbathing not only in summer but during less heat-intensive months. Enjoy the view from the top of the bay.

Churches and the Colourful Festa celebrations

Villagers celebrating the local feast besides the parish churchThe feast of St. Joseph at Rabat Malta

Village feasts are part of Maltese culture. Do not miss church functions, band marches, merry-making, fireworks and decorations. Foreigners call them Malta festa. Feasts throughout the year, towns and villages celebrate the religious feast of their patron saint. They form part of the Maltese culture and traditional fabric for many centuries. Unique traditions are only found in Malta.

things about the maltese village feasts

  • Worship Places: About 97% of its residents are Roman Catholic with 581 worship places. The Mosta dome is the world's third-highest unsupported dome. 
  • Mosta Dome: The Mosta church is famous for its spectacular dome. A neoclassical design based on the Roman Pantheon.  For some time considered the third largest in Europe.
  • Village feasts: The traditional Maltese festa is the highlight of the religious feast calendar mostly celebrated during summer for the positive weather conditions where enthusiasts decorate several streets at the core of their village. Visit this unique Maltese tradition and have fun taking photos.
  • Visit the decorated church: During a village feast, it is imperative to visit the parish church for its spectacular decorations, covered in red damask, chandeliers and many intricate silver décor honouring. Unique opportunities are only seen in Malta.
  • Stroll around the streets: The core of the villages surrounding the parish church are the areas mostly decorated in the village. It is a hive of activity where you can be attracted to visit like many other foreigners who love to live on these islands.
  • Fireworks: Fireworks are an integral part of the Maltese feast. Summer brings with it numerous feasts where you can plan to see the ground and aerial fireworks, especially during the weekends. Certain villages have very intricate fireworks which need to be seen to be appreciated.
  • Listen to band marches: There is no local feast without celebrations and band marches. It is a part of our culture to enjoy ourselves. There is a lot of rivalry especially if there are two bank in the same village. Take the opportunity to share this experience while in Malta.

Experience the Maltese Nightlife

Malta nightlife venue at Paceville.Paceville Malta nightlife

Throughout the year you find where to be entertained with very popular venues for dancing and clubbing, at Gianpula Club, Numero Uno, Aria and Marrakech Club.

Enjoy the best nightlife in Malta at Paceville clubs and discos. Plenty of bars, clubs, and gentlemen's clubs to choose from. Axis Disco, Babylon Bar, Barfunk, Boogie Bar, BJ's Night Club, Black.  

exploring the best of malta's nightlife

  • Entertainment: A variety of events from cinemas, casinos, nightlife at Paceville, water parks, operas, wine, jazz, bowling, arts and baroque festivals.
  • New Year's Eve Parties: The big night where you look at what to do. Malta offers such a variety, knowing that locals love entertainment. Look and book early from hotel dinner dances, to nightclubs, restaurants and bars.
  • New Year's Eve Malta: NYE at Valletta open-air celebrations. Many flock to the capital, for the entertainment on the big stage at Palace Square, including midnight fireworks. All restaurants and bars are open till late.
  • Boat Parties: The very popular summer boat parties. It is surely a night to remember. Sailing from Sliema marina towards the setting sun. Drink from an open bar. Enjoy the snacks. Dance to the load music till you come back to port. 
  • Casino: On a tiny island with four casinos at Portomaso and The Dragonara Casino both at St. Julian’s, and the Oracle Casino at Bugibba. Amazing place where you will find great games to enjoy your time. 
  • Clubs & Bars: Plenty of places for clubbing and bars to enjoy yourself. From rooftop terraces to the island's quaint oldest wine bar. There is everything for everyone and everything for any mood you are in.
  • Open-air clubbing: During summer enjoy the magical outdoor club of Gianpula and Numero Uno. Located close to Rabat in the countryside. You will not be disappointed with the atmosphere and entertainment offered till the early hours of the morning.
  • Events: Look for events while in Malta. They span all through the year ranging from international singers, operas, plays, cultural festivals, carnival and sports.

Explore The History Of Malta Of A Hundreds Of Years Ago

The Tarxien Temples a remarkable archaeological site.Tarxien Temples Malta, among the oldest freestanding structures in the world

If you love history these are the places to visit. Here you can explore the fascinating history of the people who lived on these islands and made their home for a long time. Visit Malta's UNESCO World Heritage sites. Discover the oldest megalithic temples in the world which are older than the Pyramids of Egypt.

top megalithic temples in malta

  • Hagar Qim and Mnajdra: From Wied iz-Zurrieq take a walk or drive to the temples of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra temples, just a kilometre away. The Mnajdra Temple is renowned for its solar alignment when the sun rises in line with the main axis of this temple called equinoxes which happens twice a year.
  • Tarxien: Tarxien temples are covered with a large canopy for shade so you can enjoy observing and walking around the walkway, reading the signs explaining the various areas of the temple which is over 5000 years old.
  • Ghar Dalam: Ghar Dalam is a 144-metres-long cave where a large amount of animal bone remains were found inside. This happened when they were stranded on the island a long time ago. At the museum of Ghar Dalam see the bones of Elephants, Hippos, Dears and other animals.
  • Archaeology Valletta Museum: At the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta you will find many original pieces that have been preserved from getting more deteriorated. It stands within the Auberge de Provence built by the Knights of St. John, a beautiful place to be appreciated.
  • Skorba and Hagrat: These temples lie a few kilometres from each other. Through various excavations, archaeologists understood part of Malta’s history and they are dated as being among the oldest on the islands. Buy tickets and appreciate the genius of local megalithic construction when tools were so limited.

We have come to the end of the guide of 'Top things to do in Malta' - look at the conclusions of the London pages.

Make lifelong memories at Malta's top attractions and make memories that you will remember for a lifetime. We take great pleasure in sharing these experiences with all of you.

questions about top things to do

How can I discover unusual locations or interesting hidden gems in the archipelago of Malta?

The charming harbour of Marsaxlokk with its vibrant fishing boats and lively Sunday market are undiscovered treasure; Dingli Cliffs offers impressive views of the Mediterranean Sea and excellent hiking opportunities; and Comino, beyond the Blue Lagoon, offers guests quiet coves and peaceful enchanting moments.

What are some of the most important sites to visit in Malta and Gozo?

The following are must-see sights in Malta and Gozo: Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its Baroque architecture, Blue Grotto is home to stunning caves with crystal-clear waters, and Hal Saflieni Hypogeum offers an incredible archaeological experience since it is an underground burial site dating back over 5,000 years.

How can I discover unusual locations or interesting hidden gems on the archipelago of Malta?

The charming harbour of Marsaxlokk with its vibrant fishing boats and lively Sunday market are undiscovered treasures; Dingli Cliffs offers impressive views of the Mediterranean Sea and excellent hiking opportunities; and Comino, beyond the Blue Lagoon, offers guests quiet coves and peaceful moments.

Are there any particular festivals or cultural activities taking place while I am in Malta and the Gozo Islands?

During the summer, the Malta International Arts Festival showcases local and foreign talent; religious processions and fireworks are part of the Maltese 'festa' all year round, especially between May and October; and top-notch artists and musicians fill the air with the upbeat rhythms of the Malta Jazz Festival.

Where are the best swimming and snorkelling beaches on the islands of Malta, Gozo, and Comino?

These include Golden Bay, Ghajn Tuffieha Bay and Mellieha Bay in Malta, Ramla Bay in Gozo, and the Blue Lagoon beach on Comino Island. There are numerous locations around the coast along the rocky shores that present incredible locations for swimming, snorkelling, diving and not the least for relaxation and sunbathing.

During our Malta and Gozo vacation, what are some of the best hiking trails we can enjoy?

There are breathtaking vistas at Dingli Cliffs Walk, historical value at Victoria Lines Trail, and a variety of landscapes at Majjistral Nature and History Park. These are some of the best hiking routes and outdoor activities. In Gozo, you can also walk, bike, or stroll through the rural areas or go hiking in Wied il-Għasri Valley.

Are there any historical sites or landmarks in the Maltese islands worth mentioning?

Several historical places in Malta are well worth visiting, such as the Grand Master's Palace, the fortifications of Valletta, Fort St. Elmo and St. John's Co-Cathedral lavishly adorned in gold. The UNESCO ancient temples of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra. Visit the charming Three Cities, the historical capital of Mdina, and the historic Domus Romana, a townhouse built in the first century BC.

What are the best activities for families travelling with kids to do while on the islands of Gozo and Malta?

One of the best family-friendly activities in the area is a trip to the Popeye Village, a trip to the National Aquarium, or a visit to Splash & Fun Water Park.

Are there any boat tours or excursions to nearby islands or caves from the island of Malta?

Boat tours offer excursions to the stunning Blue Lagoon Malta beach on the island of Comino, the mystical caves of the Blue Grotto, and the rugged coastline of Gozo.

Numerous boat tours and excursions cater to exploring the natural wonders of the Maltese archipelago. Typically visits the breathtaking Blue Lagoon on Comino Island. Moreover, many tours offer opportunities to cruise along the rugged coastline of Malta and Gozo, providing panoramic views of its dramatic cliffs and secluded bays, creating unforgettable experiences for travellers seeking adventure and natural beauty.

What nightlife possibilities exist in Gozo and Malta?

Malta and Gozo provide a diverse array of nightlife options. Among these options are lively clubs and bars in Paceville, elegant lounges in Valletta, as well as quaint wine bars in Gozo, which are all located nearby.

How can I learn more about the history and culture of these islands through guided tours or other activities?

Discover Valletta, the capital city, and Mdina, the old capital of Malta, with its well-preserved fortifications, baroque architecture, and historic narrow streets. Discover the ancient temples of these islands that are famous around the world. Experience the history and culture of the islands through traditional Maltese crafts and food.

Can we visit nearby countries on a day trip from Malta?

Sicily is accessible via scheduled tours or ferry services. With these trips, travellers can see well-known Sicilian sights like Mount Etna, Europe's tallest active volcano, Syracuse, famous for its ancient ruins and Taormina. Visiting Sicily from Malta is a real treat thanks to the beautiful scenery, delicious food, and fascinating history.

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