Malta, a sparkling gem in the heart of the Mediterranean, is one of those places that stays with you long after you’ve left. It’s where ancient history and modern life blend effortlessly, with golden limestone cities, turquoise bays, and food that’ll make you want to book a return trip before you even leave. 🇲🇹
This island quickly became one of our favorite destinations — and here’s why it might steal your heart too!
Why Visit Malta? 🌴
Malta has a little bit of everything: history, adventure, beaches, food, and some of the friendliest locals you’ll ever meet. It’s the perfect destination whether you’re craving culture or a sunny escape.
We visited in early April and it was chef’s kiss perfect — not too hot, not too crowded, just right for wandering the islands without the summer chaos.
Malta Bucket List 📝
If you’re building your own Malta itinerary, here are some can’t-miss highlights:
🌿 Upper & Lower Barrakka Gardens
⛪ St. John’s Co-Cathedral
🎬 Popeye Village (yes, the movie set!)
🌊 Blue Grotto – Take a scenic boat trip through these caves (book your tour here)
⛪ Mosta Rotunda
🏛️ Ġgantija Temples (Gozo) – this jeep tour was so fun! [Gozo day tours]
🏠 Casa Rocca Piccola
⚔️ Fort St. Elmo & The Lascaris War Rooms
🏰 Mdina (aka the Silent City) – best explored on a [guided walking tour]
🙏 Basilica of Ta’ Pinu
🐟 Marsaxlokk Market
🏖️ Mellieha Beach
🐠 Malta National Aquarium
🔔 Saluting Battery
🛶 Comino Island & the Blue Lagoon ([book a day trip here]
Instagram-Worthy Spots 📸
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Mdina’s Silent City doors and alleys
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The colorful fishing boats in Marsaxlokk
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The Blue Lagoon (Comino)
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Barrakka Gardens views over Valletta’s Grand Harbour
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Popeye Village
When to Go 🌞
The sweet spot? April, May, and June. Days are warm and sunny, evenings are cooler, and the crowds haven’t fully descended yet. You can even swim if you don’t mind slightly cooler waters.
We went in April and honestly, it couldn’t have been better. If you’re not a fan of sweltering heat, springtime is the way to go.
Insider Tips Section 💡
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Public transport: Buses are cheap and reliable, but they can be slow — renting a car helps if you want to see Gozo/Comino easily. 🚍🚗
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Language: English is widely spoken, but you’ll also hear Maltese everywhere.
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Currency: Euros (€), and card is accepted most places.
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Outlets: UK-style plugs (Type G) — bring an adapter! 🔌
Cities & Towns Worth Exploring 🏙️
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Valletta (the capital — stunning architecture!)
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Mdina (a real-life medieval fairytale)
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Sliema (shopping + sea views)
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Marsaxlokk (famous for colorful fishing boats and market)
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Victoria (Gozo’s main city)
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Mellieha (beach vibes)
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Bugibba & St. Paul’s Bay (coastal fun)
Suggested Itineraries 🗺️
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3 days: Valletta + Mdina + Comino – itineraries coming soon!
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5 days: Add Gozo + Marsaxlokk + Blue Grotto – itineraries coming soon!
What to Eat in Malta 🍴
Maltese food is a glorious mashup of Mediterranean flavors with Italian, North African, and British influences. Here are some dishes to hunt down:
🥟 Pastizzi – Flaky pastries filled with ricotta or peas
🐇 Fenek / Fenkata – Rabbit stew or fried rabbit, Malta’s signature dish
🥧 Lampuki Pie – A savory fish pie (seasonal, during lampuki migration)
🍝 Timpana – Pasta baked inside pastry with rich sauce & cheese
🥒 Kapunata – Malta’s ratatouille
🧀 Ġbejniet – Goat cheese rounds (fresh or dried)
🥪 Ħobż biz-Zejt – Maltese tuna + tomato sandwich
🍺 Cisk Lager – Iconic local beer
🥤 Kinnie – A bittersweet soft drink (love-it-or-hate-it!)
🍬 Imqaret – Fried date pastries
🍯 Qagħaq tal-Għasel – Treacle/honey rings
🐟 Pulpetti – Maltese-style meatballs
Trust me, you won’t go hungry here.
Cost Breakdown 💶
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Pastizzi snack: €0.50–€1.50
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Meal at midrange restaurant: €15–€25
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Public bus ticket: €2
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Ferry to Gozo: ~€4.65
Cultural/Holiday Highlights 🎉
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Carnival in February (bright floats & costumes)
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Holy Week/Easter (traditional processions & figolla pastries)
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Isle of MTV in summer (huge music festival)
🏨 Where to Stay
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Hilton Malta – where we stayed and absolutely loved it. Spacious rooms, amazing views, and great service — perfect for a comfortable base in St. Julian’s.
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Corinthia St. George’s Bay– a resort-style stay right on the water with pools and restaurants, great if you want relaxation with easy access to nightlife.
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The Westin Dragonara Resort– Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea in St Julian’s and offers 2 private beaches, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, one of which is heated, and 3 restaurants.
🎟 Top Malta Experiences
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Blue Grotto boat tour – Hop on a small boat and glide through striking sea caves with that signature bright turquoise water. Go early in the morning for the best light.
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Gozo jeep day trip – A fun way to explore Malta’s sister island without worrying about buses or ferries. You’ll cover hidden beaches, Ġgantija Temples, and charming villages in one go.
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Mdina walking tour – This medieval “Silent City” comes alive when you know the history behind the alleys, palaces, and fortress walls. A guided tour makes it extra special.
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Comino & Blue Lagoon cruise – Spend the day swimming in crystal-clear water, lounging on the boat deck, and soaking in Malta’s most famous lagoon. Family-friendly but also romantic at sunset.
🎒 Travel Gear I Never Leave Home Without
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Final Thoughts 💭
Malta is one of those destinations that offers so much in such a small package — ancient temples, seaside villages, and food you’ll dream about for weeks. Whether you’re exploring historic Valletta, swimming in Gozo, or eating your weight in pastizzi, Malta will absolutely win you over.
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