Ed Lansink
Discovering Malta: Top 13 Best Things to Do in Malta
So you’re traveling to the small Mediterranean island of Malta, an archipelago lying between the North African coast and Sicily. This European Island is packed with brilliant architecture and museums, the beautiful turquoise sea, and the laid-back vibe of its cities.
Grand Harbour – Best Things to do in Malta
Malta may be on your bucket list for some time now, but you don’t quite know how you’ll spend your time here. It’s time to start planning, so you don’t miss out on the top sights and things to do when you get there. Here are the 13 best things to do in Malta:
Take a breather at the Golden Bay Beach & Ghajn Tuffieha Bay
Both the Golden Bay Beach and the Ghajn Tuffieha are two incredibly spectacular beaches that are found right next to each other. Located in the northwest part of the island, it’s one of Malta’s favorite places for both travelers and tourists alike. Here, indulge yourself in the selection of numerous beachside snack bars and restaurants. The sand is clean and pristine, and you’ll find yourself either lounging on one of the beach chairs and umbrellas or playing fun-filled beach sports activities.
The view above the cliffs is also breathtaking. If you’re not in a rush, enjoy the spectacular sunset while having a little picnic by the beach — wine and cheese, anyone?
Treat Yourself to a hearty seafood lunch at Marsaxlokk Markets
Located in the south of Malta, Marsaxlokk is a colorful, traditional fishing village where you can find hundreds of beautiful Maltese fishing boats. On Sundays, their traditional fishing market is turned into one of the largest markets on the island, attracting thousands of tourists. Here, you’ll find plenty of souvenirs to take home. Local produce such as jams, honey, and wine is also being sold here at bargain prices.
Once you’re done exploring the markets, you can head over for a tasty lunch at one of the seafood restaurants lining the boardwalk and enjoy uninterrupted bay views and great seafood. If you want to avoid large crowds, skip the Sunday markets. Instead, go there on less busy days of the week. Not only is it far less crowded, but you’ll also enjoy the experience more.
Soak in St. Peter’s Pool
There might be limited beaches in Malta, but there are many epic swimming holes to make up for it. St. Peter’s Pool is a short drive from the fishing village of Marsaxlokk in the south. Due to the lack of public transportation, you’d usually find this place less crowded compared to other hotspots on the island. Enjoy the beauty of this natural pool all day. It has a stunning natural pool with several rocks to jump off, and a ladder to enter the clear waters.
Take a walk in the past on the historical streets of Valletta
Walk the narrow, colorful streets of Valletta, the capital city of Malta. It’s so small that you can easily roam the city streets, full of impressive historical architecture and traditional balconies, in just a day on foot. Pop into St John’s Co-Cathedral, home to the famous paintings by well-known artists such as Mattia Preti and Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio.
If you’re a history lover, soak in Malta’s historical past at the National Museum of Archaeology. Then, walk your way down to Strait Street, the city’s most well-known street, as it used to be the center of nightlife among British and American military men from the 19th century up to the mid-20th century. Today, it’s filled with lively bars, live music, and several unique restaurants.
Eat at a traditional restaurant
Malta’s dishes are an eclectic mix of various cuisines. One thing that stands out, though, is the country’s emphasis on fresh, local produce in its food. Locals are also very passionate about their bread and cheese. They have gbejniet, the local cheese made from either goat or sheep’s milk.
There are also many remarkable places where you can sample their traditional, local cuisine. When you’re in Valletta, head over to Nenu the Artisan Baker to taste the ftira, their local bread.
Swim to your heart’s content at Comino’s Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is every water lover’s paradise. This aquamarine colored pool is nestled on the island of Comino and is widely known for its azure waters. It’s undoubtedly picture-worthy.
Perfect for day trips, the lagoon has an abundance of marine life and can be reached in approximately 10 to 15 minutes by boat if you’re coming either from Malta or Gozo. There might be no sandy beaches in sight, but there are plenty of stunning rock cliffs that surround it.
Marvel at the stunning panoramic views at Upper Barrakka Gardens
Found in the beautiful city of Valletta, stroll in the beautifully manicured lawns of the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Here, you’ll enjoy the breathtaking panoramic view of the Grand Harbour.
For the young and young at heart, visit the Popeye Village
The Popeye Village, also known as Sweethaven Village, was the actual film set for the 1980 Popeye musical. The village has gone through a lot over the last couple of years. It became a favorite attraction for both kids and kids at heart.
There are water trampolines, boat rides, and lots of sunbathing and wine for adults. The best part, though, is when Popeye himself greets visitors together with his fun friends. In this village, you’ll feel like you’ve never grown up!
Set Foot on the Silent City of Mdina
Mdina used to be the capital city of Malta. Earning the title of the “Silent City,” it’s easy to understand why. The town has only about 300 residents, and only a limited number of cars can enter.
These factors primarily contribute to its peaceful atmosphere as you stroll along those cobblestoned streets, admiring everything from quaint stores to shuttered windows. For a more romantic evening, dine at The Mdina Restaurant. They specialize in both local and Mediterranean cuisine.
Set foot on the Hal-Saflieni Hypogeum
If you’re feeling even more adventurous, visit the Hal-Saflieni Hypogeum. A UNESCO World Heritage underground burial site, it’s often believed that over 7,000 people are buried in its chambers. This fascinating structure is said to date back somewhere between 3300 and 3000 BC. However, make sure that you book in advance, though, as they only accept a handful of visitors a day.
Experience Malta’s wine culture
At first, you wouldn’t think of Malta as a wine-growing region. However, you’d be surprised to learn that it produces some of the best-tasting wines around. Go wine tasting at one of the upper-echelon wineries in the land, Meridiana.
You’d soon realize that every restaurant in Malta features wine from the Meridiana vineyards. Try their bestsellers, Isis Chardonnay and Merlot blend. If you’re visiting during the summer season, wine and dine al fresco and try a variety of local and foreign wines with a platter of cheese in a candlelit atmosphere.
Drink the locally brewed Cisk Beer
There’s no doubt that the Cisk is the most popular beer in Malta. This low-carb beer has a slew of options, such as the best-selling golden lager, which is especially refreshing on a laid-back, warm day by the sea.
Get your adrenaline rush at a handful of watersports adventures
From kayaking, fly-boarding, wind-surfing, jet-skiing, to deep-sea fishing, Malta offers a handful of watersports activities to get your blood pumping. Snorkeling and swimming in the azure waters are always a delight. Here, you’ll enjoy the luxury of the surrounding sea on this beautiful island.
Find Hotels in Malta within your budget on Agoda.
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