Top 10 Malta Attractions: Best Places to Visit and See

Malta attractions

Malta offers a diverse range of attractions, including historical and architectural wonders, prehistoric temples, stunning natural landscapes, and charming fishing villages. Travelers can explore the UNESCO-listed capital of Valletta and the ancient fortified city of Mdina, visit prehistoric temples, and experience the beauty of the Blue Grotto and Blue Lagoon. The island promises a captivating journey for all visitors, with something unique to discover around every corner.

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Malta attractions — ^{Malta offers a captivating journey with unique discoveries at every turn.}

Table of Contents

A Map of Malta

Malta is a small archipelago located in the Mediterranean Sea, consisting of three main islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino. The landscape is characterized by low hills, terraced fields, and a rocky coastline with beautiful bays and cliffs. Due to its strategic location, the islands have been influenced by various civilizations throughout history, resulting in a rich cultural heritage.

Top 10 Places to See in Malta

Malta, a Mediterranean gem that offers an extraordinary array of attractions to explore. From historical wonders and architectural masterpieces to breathtaking natural landscapes and charming villages, Malta promises an unforgettable journey for every traveller.

› Also Read: How to Spend One Week in Malta – 7 Days of True Mediterranean Gem

Valletta

As the capital city of Malta, Valletta is a cultural gem that boasts a wealth of historical and architectural wonders. The entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring stunning landmarks such as St. John’s Co-Cathedral, an opulent Baroque masterpiece adorned with exquisite artwork, including paintings by Caravaggio. The Grandmaster’s Palace, now the seat of the President of Malta, offers a glimpse into the island’s noble past with its magnificent halls and opulent decor. As visitors wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, they can admire the well-preserved buildings that showcase the city’s illustrious history.

› Malta’s UNESCO-listed capital is best explored on a walking tour. Limited to 20 participants, book here.

^{Maltese balconies are charming and distinctive with colorful wrought iron railings and decorative features on buildings.}

Mdina

Known as the “Silent City,” Mdina is a captivating destination that transports visitors back in time to the medieval era. Enclosed within ancient fortified walls, the city boasts a labyrinth of narrow streets, quaint alleys, and historic buildings that exude an enchanting ambiance. The majestic St. Paul’s Cathedral stands as a prominent landmark, showcasing an impressive mix of architectural styles. Exploring Mdina feels like stepping into a living museum, where timeless charm and historical authenticity converge to create a truly memorable experience.

› Discover Mdina and neighbouring Rabat with a local licensed guide. Click here to learn more.

^{Mdina is a captivating destination that immerses visitors in the medieval era.}

Blue Grotto

Situated on the southern coast of Malta, the Blue Grotto is a natural wonder that captivates visitors with its breathtaking sea caves and vibrant blue waters. Furthermore, boat tours take travelers on a mesmerizing journey through the intricate network of caves, each illuminated by sunlight to reveal stunning shades of blue. Moreover, the picturesque cliffs surrounding the Blue Grotto offer magnificent panoramic views, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra Temples

For those interested in prehistoric history, the megalithic temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra are a must-visit. These ancient structures date back to around 3600 BC, making them some of the oldest freestanding structures in the world. The temples are a testament to Malta’s rich prehistoric heritage and offer a unique glimpse into the lives of its ancient inhabitants.

› Hop on a time machine and relive the grandeur of prehistoric Maltese monuments like the Tarxien Temples, Mnajdra and Hagar Qim Temples. Book your trip here.

Blue Lagoon (Comino)

Located on the tiny island of Comino, the Blue Lagoon is a true paradise for water enthusiasts. Its stunning turquoise waters, sheltered by rocky cliffs, create an idyllic swimming and snorkeling spot. Visitors can bask in the warm Mediterranean sun, relax on the sandy shores, or explore the vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life.

› Discover GOZO, Comino, the BLUE LAGOON & Caves. Book you trip here.

^{A small, picturesque bay with crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.}

St. John’s Co-Cathedral

This iconic cathedral, located in Valletta, is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and a symbol of Malta’s religious and artistic heritage. The interior is adorned with intricate marble work, gilded sculptures, and a stunning series of painted vaulted ceilings. The cathedral houses the renowned Caravaggio painting, “The Beheading of St. John the Baptist,” which is considered one of the artist’s greatest masterpieces.

Tourist Information

› Visiting Hours: Monday to Saturday, 09:00 hrs to 16:45hrs; Closed on Sunday and public holidays
› Entrance Fees: Adults €15; Seniors €12; Students €12; Children Free under 12 years of age (when accompanied by an adult)
› Buy tickets here.

^{St John’s Co-Cathedral is the most iconic cathedral in Malta.}

Marsaxlokk

As one of Malta’s most picturesque fishing villages, Marsaxlokk is famous for its vibrant Sunday market, where locals and tourists gather to peruse fresh seafood, local produce, and a variety of crafts and souvenirs. The village’s colorful fishing boats, known as “Luzzus,” add to the charm of the quaint harbor. Furthermore, the relaxed ambiance, friendly locals, and delectable seafood make Marsaxlokk a delightful destination to experience authentic Maltese culture. With its unique blend of traditional charm and lively market atmosphere, Marsaxlokk offers a captivating glimpse into the island’s vibrant maritime heritage.

Gozo

Malta’s sister island, Gozo, offers a tranquil and idyllic escape from the bustling city life of its larger counterpart. Notably, the island is renowned for its rural landscapes, charming villages, and historical sites. Visitors can explore the Citadel in Victoria (Rabat), which offers panoramic views of the island. Additionally, they can visit the strikingly beautiful Azure Window (until its collapse in 2017) and the fascinating Ggantija Temples, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Gozo presents a serene retreat with a wealth of cultural and natural wonders waiting to be discovered.

› Gozo Full-Day Jeep Tour w/ Private Boat to Gozo & return (to avoid queuing). Book trip here.

Malta itinerary — ^{Malta’s sister island is a tranquil paradise with beautiful countryside.}

Popeye Village

Located on the northwest coast of Malta, Popeye Village is a unique attraction that was originally built as a film set for the 1980 musical film “Popeye.” Today, it serves as a family-friendly theme park with fun activities, live shows, and opportunities to meet Popeye and other characters from the famous cartoon series. In addition, the colourful village is set amidst a picturesque cove, providing a fun and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

Tourist Information
› Opening hours and entrance fees vary according to seasons. For more information and latest updates, visit official website.

^{Popeye Village was originally built as a film set for the 1980 Popeye movie}

Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua)

Located across the Grand Harbor from Valletta, the Three Cities are a trio of historical fortified cities steeped in maritime history. Stroll along the waterfronts and admire the impressive fortifications and charming streets of these atmospheric towns.

› Take a relaxing tour of Malta with a self-driving electric car that tells you all about the history of the place as you drive along a 12-mile (18-kilometer) stretch of road along the sea. Book your car here.

^{Three Cities offer a glimpse into Malta’s maritime past with picturesque streets and waterfronts.}

Best Areas to Stay in Malta

Valletta: A captivating experience immersed in history, culture, and architectural splendor, offering a vibrant atmosphere and convenient access to explore Malta’s attractions.

The Embassy Valletta Hotel $ $ $ – Book here
The Capital Boutique Hotel $ $ – Book here
Hotel Castille $ $ – Book here

Sliema and St. Julian’s: Offers a mix of cosmopolitan charm, seaside relaxation, vibrant nightlife, and easy access to water sports and boat trips, creating a dynamic and unforgettable experience in Malta.

Hotel Verdi $ $ – Book here
Marea Boutique Hotels $ $ – Book here
Hotel Juliani – Boutique Hotel $ $ – Book here

Before Your Departure to Malta

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