Malta is a tiny island state in the middle of the Mediterranean, whose richness of history and natural beauty far exceeds its modest size. The Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, chivalric orders and the British all left their mark on this 316 km² territory, where the density of UNESCO World Heritage Sites is among the highest in the world. The honey-coloured limestone buildings, the crystal-clear sea and the several-thousand-year-old megalithic temples offer a cultural and seaside experience at once. Here are the 10 best Maltese sights you shouldn't miss.
1. Valletta – Malta's UNESCO World Heritage capital
Founded in 1566 by the Knights of St John, the capital is one of Europe's smallest and most concentrated historic cities. In the grid street system, Baroque palaces, churches and fortifications line up, the whole city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Republic Street promenade runs from the city gate to Fort St Elmo, lined by cafés, museums and craft shops. The city was European Capital of Culture in 2018, and it has enjoyed vibrant cultural life ever since.
2. Mdina – the Silent City
Malta's former capital is enthroned atop a steep plateau, and behind its thick city walls the atmosphere of the Middle Ages lives on. In the car-free old town barely 300 people live, and an almost ghostly silence reigns in the narrow streets, hence the name "Silent City". St Paul's Cathedral and the Palazzo Falson noble museum are the two main sights of the town centre. From the city walls a stunning panorama opens over much of the island, especially magical at sunset.
3. Blue Grotto
On the island's south-western coast, this cave system is the result of millions of years of work by the sea and wind, where the water shines in electric blue and emerald green. The caves can be explored by small traditional fishing boats, the so-called luzzu boats, and the tour takes about 25 minutes. The most beautiful light effects can be seen before 10 am, when the sunlight falls at the right angle onto the water. In windy weather the boats don't set off, so it's worth arriving in the morning on a calm sea.
4. Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra temples (UNESCO)
These megalithic temples are among humankind's oldest free-standing stone structures, older than the Egyptian pyramids or Stonehenge. The Ħaġar Qim temple was erected between 3600 and 3200 BC, and the play of sun and moonlight through the door openings can still be observed at the solstices. The Mnajdra temple complex stands a few hundred metres away on the coastal cliffs, in a breathtaking setting. The two sites can be visited on a joint ticket, and the interactive exhibition at the visitor centre illuminates Stone Age culture wonderfully.
5. Marsaxlokk fishing village
Malta's most charming fishing village lies in the island's south-eastern bay, where hundreds of colourful traditional luzzu boats bob in the harbour. The eye of Osiris painted on the bows of the boats is a survival of the ancient Phoenician tradition, protecting sailors against misfortune. The Sunday fish market is the biggest experience: fresh fish, seafood and local specialities line the stalls. The surrounding restaurants serve the island's best fish dishes, the lampuki (dolphinfish) is a must-try in season.
6. Upper Barrakka Gardens
Valletta's most beautiful viewpoint is this arcaded garden above the Grand Harbour, created in the 17th century by the Italian knights as a resting place. From the terrace an unparalleled panorama opens over the Three Cities, Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua, and the huge harbour. Every day at noon and 16:00, a cannon is fired from the Saluting Battery below the garden, the ceremony is free to watch. The garden itself is free, and it's worth pairing the noon cannon fire with a coffee at the café by the terrace.
7. St John's Co-Cathedral (Caravaggio masterpieces)
Modest on the outside, this co-cathedral is inside one of Europe's richest Baroque churches, where almost every square centimetre is covered with gilded carvings and paintings. The floor of the church is formed of 400 marble tombstones marking the resting places of the Knights of St John. The main attraction is Caravaggio's two masterpieces: "The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist", the artist's largest and only signed painting, and "Saint Jerome Writing". Admission is €15, and while a Maltese audio guide isn't available, the English-language version is excellent.
8. The Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua
On the opposite side of the Grand Harbour, these three fortified cities are Malta's oldest inhabited area, where the knights settled before founding Valletta. In the narrow streets of Vittoriosa (Birgu), the knightly palaces, auberges and the Inquisitor's Palace still stand, the latter being Europe's only museum of its kind. At the tip of Senglea, the Gardjola watchtower offers a panoramic view of Valletta and the harbour. The three cities are best reached by the Valletta water taxi, which crosses the Grand Harbour in just 5 minutes.
9. Comino and the Blue Lagoon
On the tiny island of Comino between Malta and Gozo, only 3–4 permanent residents live, yet here is the Blue Lagoon, one of the Mediterranean's most beautiful natural pools. The turquoise, crystal-clear water and white sandy bottom make the sea almost transparent, perfect for snorkelling and swimming. In summer the lagoon can get very crowded, so it's worth arriving early in the morning, on the first ferry, or choosing the September–October shoulder season. There's no shop and minimal infrastructure on the island, so be sure to bring food and water.
10. Popeye Village (Sweethaven Village)
The sets of the 1980 Robin Williams Popeye film were built in the rocky Anchor Bay cove, and after filming they were opened to the public as an entertainment theme park. The colourful wooden houses offer a picturesque sight above the rocky cove, and the park welcomes families with interactive shows, a trampoline park and boat rides. Admission is about €18 for adults and €14 for children, and in summer you can swim in the cove too. The place isn't only for children, the unique setting and retro film atmosphere are a special experience for adults too.
Practical tips
- Transport: In Malta, buses are the primary means of public transport; with a Tallinja card you can travel more cheaply (€0.75 instead of €1.50 per trip). Car rental is convenient, but driving on the left and the narrow roads can be a challenge.
- Weather: In summer heat above 35 °C occurs, so strong sun protection, a hat and plenty of water are essential. The April–May and September–October periods are ideal for sightseeing and hiking.
- Money-saving option: The Malta Discount Card provides discounted admission to dozens of attractions and pays off within a few days. Most churches and gardens are free to visit.
- eSIM tip: Malta is an EU member, so with an EU subscription roaming is free under EU rules. For heavier data use, it's worth getting a local eSIM plan, which offers a generous allowance at a better price.
- Safety: Malta is an extremely safe destination, and violent crime is rare. The most common hazard is the summer heat and sunstroke, always carry plenty of water and seek out shady spots.