Planning a trip to Malta? With its rich history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture, there’s a lot to see and do. To help you get ready for your trip, I put together this essential guide covers essential historical sites, beaches, how to travel around the islands, popular attractions, and scuba diving tips.
Introduction
Malta, a small European archipelago just south of Sicily, Italy, is perfect for a European getaway. Made up of three main islands—Malta (the largest), Gozo, and Comino (the smallest)—this captivating island nation is a blend of ancient history, beautiful coastlines, and a vibrant culture. Its compact size makes it incredibly easy to explore, allowing you to discover centuries-old ruins, stunning blue lagoons, and charming fortified cities all within a few days! This guide will cover everything you need to know before you go, including the best historical sites, beaches, and hidden gems to make your trip unforgettable. For any traveler, Malta offers an unforgettable experience that packs a lot into a small package.
How To Get To Malta
Getting to Malta is easy, with Malta International Airport (MLA) serving as the main gateway to the islands. While there are many direct flights from major European hubs, the most common way to arrive is via a quick flight from nearby Italy, particularly from Rome (FCO). The flight is short, often lasting around 90 minutes.
Once you land, you have several convenient options for getting to your accommodation:
Taxi: Taxis are readily available just outside the airport terminal. You can pre-book a taxi or use the official taxi booth to get a fixed-fare ride to your destination. The MLA Airport lists destinations here from MLA airport and their respective taxi fares.
Airport Shuttle: For a more budget-friendly and shared option, consider an airport shuttle service. Many companies offer door-to-door service to various hotels and resorts across the islands.
Public Bus: The most economical way to travel from the airport is by public bus. The bus system is efficient and connects the airport to various towns and villages.
Rental Car: If you plan on exploring a lot of the islands’ more remote areas, renting a car is a great choice. The airport has several car rental agencies on-site, and you can book in advance for a smoother pickup. Listed on the MLA airport website here are instructions on how to rent a car and how to get your rental car when you arrive.
To find the best flight deals to Malta from your location, check popular flight comparison websites. For more detailed information on ground transportation, including up-to-date taxi fares and rental car options, consult the official website of Malta International Airport.
How to Travel Around the Maltese Islands
Malta’s small size makes it incredibly easy to navigate, with a variety of transport options to suit every traveler. The islands have an extensive and affordable public bus system that can get you to nearly every town, village, and major attraction. The public bus system in Malta is called Malta Public Transport. It operates under the brand name Tallinja, and they also have a popular app called the Tallinja App for real-time bus tracking and journey planning.
For a quick and convenient ride, especially after a late dinner, ride-sharing services such Uber, Bolt, and eCabs are widely available and can be booked through their apps. If you decide to rent a car, Google Maps is very reliable option to travel around the islands. For a list of my favorite apps for navigating, booking, and more, check out my post on essential travel apps.
To travel between the main island of Malta and its smaller sister islands, Gozo and Comino, you’ll rely on a regular and efficient ferry system. Whether you’re planning your route on the bus or hailing a ride-share, having the right tools at your fingertips can make all the difference.
Historical Sites
Malta is home to some of the world’s oldest man-made structures, the Megalithic Temples, which predate even the pyramids of Egypt. For an unforgettable journey back in time, visit the ancient walled city of Mdina, known as the “Silent City.” Its narrow, labyrinthine streets are perfect for a peaceful stroll, and the city walls offer panoramic views of the island. Additionally, the capital of Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a title it earned for its stunning Baroque architecture and a grid of streets that has remained unchanged since the 16th century.
Moreover, don’t miss the awe-inspiring St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, a masterpiece of Baroque art and architecture that serves as a monument to the Knights of St. John. For a truly unique experience, you can descend into the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, an extraordinary underground necropolis and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The most visited ancient temple in Malta is Ħaġar Qim, dating back to 3200 BC, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the islet of Filfla. It is known for its megalithic architecture, including a massive trilithon entrance and is located just a short walk from the equally impressive Mnajdra Temple. The Mnajdra Temple dates back over 5,000 years, is a remarkable example of ancient engineering, famous for its precise astronomical alignment with the sun during the spring and autumn equinoxes and the summer and winter solstices. These historical sites, and many more, tell the captivating tale of the civilizations that have shaped Malta.
Best Beaches
Malta’s coastline offers a diverse range of beaches, from secluded coves to popular sandy stretches. While much of the island’s shore is rocky, you’ll find breathtaking golden sand beaches, especially in the northern part of the island. In the north, you’ll find the most popular sandy beaches, including Mellieħa Bay (also known as Għadira Bay), the island’s largest and a perfect spot for families thanks to its shallow waters. For a lively and popular day out, head to Golden Bay, which is known for its beautiful red-gold sand and stunning sunsets. Just a short walk away is Għajn Tuffieħa, a more secluded and tranquil bay favored by locals.
Additionally, most travelers flock to Malta’s shores, a local favorite is St. Peter’s Pool, a natural pool carved out of rock on the southeastern coast. It’s perfect for sunbathing on the flat rocks and diving into the deep, clear waters below. Over on the island of Gozo, don’t miss Ramla Bay, famous for its distinctive reddish-orange sand and unspoiled natural surroundings.
For a truly unforgettable experience, take a boat trip to the tiny island of Comino to swim and snorkel in the impossibly turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon, a must-see for its clear scenery. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly shallow waters or a hidden gem for a quiet escape, Malta’s beaches have something for everyone!
Food and Drink
Maltese cuisine is a delicious blend of Mediterranean, Italian, and North African influences. No visit is complete without trying a pastizzi, a savory, diamond-shaped pastry filled with either ricotta cheese or mushy peas—it’s the ultimate street food snack! For a more substantial meal, be sure to sample stuffat tal-fenek, a slow-cooked rabbit stew that is considered the national dish.
Seafood lovers will have plenty to choose from, especially in fishing villages like Marsaxlokk, where you can feast on the day’s fresh catch. When it comes to drinks, try a locally brewed Cisk lager or a glass of Maltese wine. For a non-alcoholic treat, sip on Kinnie, a unique bittersweet orange soda. Exploring Malta’s culinary landscape is an adventure in itself and a wonderful way to experience the local culture.
Scuba Diving
Malta is a world-class destination for scuba diving, offering an unforgettable experience for divers of all skill levels. The islands are renowned for their exceptional water clarity, with visibility often exceeding 30 meters, and a wide variety of dive sites. While the nice weather and clear blue water are a major draw, what truly sets Malta apart is its fascinating underwater topography, which includes everything from vibrant reefs and dramatic caverns to a trove of historic shipwrecks.
Beyond the famous Um El-Faroud wreck, other notable dives include the P-29 Patrol Boat and the Rozi Tugboat near Cirkewwa, as well as the iconic Blue Hole and Reqqa Point, both on Gozo. The temperate climate means diving is a year-round activity, with the warm summer months being particularly popular for exploring a vibrant marine ecosystem that includes sightings of octopuses, moray eels, and schools of barracuda.
If you’re an avid scuba diver, I highly recommend booking your dives with a reputable dive center well ahead of time. This is especially important for popular wreck dives like the Um El-Faroud or the P-29, as spots can fill up quickly.
Conclusions
With its unique blend of ancient history, stunning natural beauty, and unique blend of cultures, Malta offers a complete travel experience in a small package. Now that you’re equipped with all the essential tips on where to go, what to see, and how to get around, it’s time to start planning your adventure. Prepare to be captivated by everything this incredible island nation has to offer!