Rich history, lovely beaches and the perfect mix of Mediterranean charm.
Those are the first things that came to mind in order to give you a first taste of Malta.
Is 3 days in Malta enough?
Malta is an island located in the Mediterranean, often overlooked by other “more famous” islands.
But two years ago I needed a trip that would remove the stress and make me forget about life. And this is when I discovered Malta.
After my research I found out that Malta offered many advantages:
- It is the perfect place for short trips
- Super friendly and safe.
- Very easy to navigate, since it is a compact island that you will not even need a car.
What to Expect from This Malta Travel Guide
This travel guide is here to help you make the most out of Malta in just four days. Expect advice on where to stay, what to eat and what to see in order to feel complete.
Day 1: Discover Valletta — Malta’s Captivating Capital
Your trip to Malta can not start any other way. Valletta, established in 1565, was once a soldier’s sanctuary, and now the capital city.
Being rich in history, you will be able to enjoy:
St. John’s Co-Cathedral: Artistic treasures and Baroque architecture
St. John’s Co-Cathedral is located in the heart of Valletta and is a short walk from the city’s main entrance. You can explore the cathedral and its museum, which houses a collection of Flemish paintings designed by Peter Paul Rubens.
Also, i can not not mention The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist by Caravaggios.
Stroll along Republic Street and Merchant Street: Boutiques and local life
In a logical sequence, the next best thing to do is wander down Republic Street and Merchant Street. These are Valletta’s busiest streets, and they’re full of boutiques, cozy cafés, and little artisan shops.
Do not rush your visit to the center of Malta. This is where everything happens and where you see locals live their daily life.
Tour the Grandmaster’s Palace and Armoury Museum
Next stop is the Grandmaster’s Palace. This palace was once the seat of power for the Knights of St. John. You can only imagine how marvelous and majestic it looks. Strolling around will make you feel like a royalty yourself.
The outside space is very simple with no arches like other palaces. But the interior is truly captivating. Also, inside is housed the Armoury museum. You will be able to enjoy suits of armor, weapons and more. The guided tour will provide you with all the juicy details about back then.
Relax at Upper Barrakka Gardens and witness the Saluting Battery Ceremony
After all that history, it’s time for some fresh air at the Upper Barrakka Gardens. This spot offers one of the best panoramic views in all of Malta. Ideal for relaxation and memorable pictures.
The best part about the Barrakka gardens is that around noon you will get to enjoy the Saluting Battery Ceremony.
Evening Experience
If you have energy left, attend a traditional Maltese cultural show. You will see everything about Maltese culture. Traditional costumes, folk music, lively music and dancing.
If that feels like too much, a stroll around the streets of Valletta is the perfect ending to your first day.
Day 2: Step into History — Mdina, Rabat & Dingli Cliffs
After soaking up Valletta’s vibrant energy, it’s time for Malta’s ancient history. Mdina, Rabat, and the amazing Dingli Cliffs.
Explore the Silent City: Mdina’s ancient walls and St. Paul’s Cathedral
First stop is Mdina, known as the “Silent City”. Mdina became very popular through the Game of Thrones. So if you are a fan you are going to love it. As soon as you pass through the grand entrance gate, the noise of modern life simply goes away.
Mdina is small, so you can really take your time and soak in every ancient corner. A must visit place is the St. Paul’s Cathedral. It’s an absolute masterpiece of Baroque architecture, with a stunning interior.
The interior of the Cathedral is decorated with beautiful paintings and high ceilings that feel like the sky. Even the flooring is interesting and so unique.
The best part about Mdina is the cars. You can not use your car everywhere since some areas are restricted. That way, it stays very quiet and it’s the best place to unwind.
Walk through Rabat and visit St. Paul’s Catacombs
Just a short stroll from Mdina’s is Rabat. Rabat is not widely known or preferred but it is totally worth it.
What many people don’t know is that Mdina has the St. Paul’s Catacombs. These are ancient Roman burial sites sprawling beneath the city. My initial thought when I was told to visit the Catacombs was “just ruins beneath the city”. Luckily I was surprised.
The catacombs are in such good condition with new facilities that make the whole experience very enjoyable. Remember to bring a jacket since it is quite cold down there.
Coffee break at Fontanella Tea Garden (famous cakes with a view)
You already saw the Silent City and visited the Catacombs. I think it’s time for a good little rest at one of the best coffee shops. Even a coffee shop feels like an understatement.
Fontanella Tea Garden is a must visit place in my opinion. It is located kind of on a cliff but in a safe way. The panoramic view over Malta’s countryside is honestly unbeatable.
If you visit, enjoy your coffee with their chocolate cake. A combination that never disappoints.
Head to Dingli Cliffs for panoramic views
Drum rolls please cause you are not ready for what i am about to suggest. Dingli Cliffs.
In order to reach Dingli Cliffs you will need to rent a car since it is a nice ride to get there. But when you arrive you will see one of Malta’s natural wonders.
You can reach by car and then walk to the edge of the cliff (with safety always in mind). Moments like this make you think twice about your problems. The Mediterranean stretches endlessly right in front of your eyes and makes you forget about everything.
Day 3: Islands Adventure — Exploring Gozo & Comino
Malta’s location makes it the perfect place for traveling to Gozo and Comino. Gozo and Comino are Malta’s gorgeous sister islands. It is like discovering a whole other side of Malta. But quieter, wilder, and somehow even more beautiful.
Take the ferry from Cirkewwa to Gozo
In order to take the ferry to Gozo you will have to drive to Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal. If you are renting a car you can use that but you can also use a taxi.
The ride to Gozo is only 25 minutes so you will not even feel like you are travelling. The departure is very easy and the tickets are cheap and easy to get.
Explore Victoria’s Citadel for historic and panoramic views
When you arrive at Gozo you will see the capital of Gozo which is Victoria. The first thing that will grab your attention is the Citadel. It is perched high on a hill which makes it impossible not to look at.
So it is only fair that you will visit the Citadel. Visiting it was so special. Especially the 360 degree view of Gozo’s rolling countryside. The entrance to the Citadel is free and it has so much to see.
The Citadel hosts many museums, some of them being: the Cathedral Museum, the Museum of Archaeology, the Folklore Museum, the Gozo Nature Museum, the Old Prison, the Old Gunpowder Magazine, the Grain Silos and much more. For more information visit the official website of Citadel.
Visit Ta’ Pinu Basilica: A spiritual highlight
Next stop is the Ta’ Pinu Basilica. Whether you are religious or not, I think this is a place worth visiting. There are plenty of things you can admire. This massive church rises like a vision from the countryside. The outside territory has such beautiful architecture with round balconies that just add to the view.
The interior is a whole other story. Once you get in, you feel instantly calmer. It is painted in white with gold details and brown benches. It is the perfect place to reflect on yourself regardless of religion.
Another thing that makes this church special is the thanksgiving wall. Crutches, notes, and photos from people who experienced miracles. It’s powerful and humbling in the best way.
Visit Dwejra Bay: Inland Sea, Fungus Rock, and photo opportunities
I hope you are ready for what is coming next because I wasn’t.
The Dwerja Bay was famous due to the Azure window. Unfortunately in 2017 the arch collapsed. But this does not mean that it lost her beauty and uniqueness.
You can visit the Inland Sea, a gorgeous lagoon connected to the open sea by a natural tunnel. You can even take a little boat through it for the fun of it and see the iconic Fungus Rock standing tall offshore.
Afternoon in Comino
If you are looking for the best way to end your trip then Comino it is.
Comino is just a boat ride away from Gozo and it has THE island vibes.
When the boats arrive, you will be at the Blue Lagoon. One of Malta’s most famous and that is for a good reason.
The water here is extremely blue. You can even see your feet while swimming. I highly recommend you wear your swimsuit beforehand. This is the perfect spot if your vibes are finding a quiet spot along the rocks, lay back, and let the world drift away for a while.
Head back to Malta
As the sun sets, catch your boat back to Gozo and then the ferry back to the main island.
But you can also stay in Gozo if you want to explore more the next day.
If you turn back to Mdina, finding a restaurant to close the day is essential. Only your feet know how tired they are and how much they need to fuel up. Eat, drink and enjoy the feeling of the sea.
Recommended Unique Dining Experiences in Malta
And now to this special section of this article is a little surprise for my food lovers. A place’s food can tell you a lot about their culture and day to day life.
This is why i gathered some of the most special places to eat in Malta.
Noni (Valletta): Michelin-starred local cuisine
If you’re ready to treat yourself, Noni in Valletta is where you want to be. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a plethora of local Maltese flavors with a modern twist.
Atmosphere: The atmosphere here and the architecture are phenomenal. It is the ultimate michelin experience. The interior is pretty simple but the simplest places tend to be the most beautiful and unique.
Pro tip: Do not forget to book early. The small place in combination with the phenomenal food makes it fill up fast!
Ta’ Kris (Sliema): Traditional Maltese dishes in a cozy setting
Set inside a former bakery, this place has a cozy charm with its stone walls. The mouthwatering smell of slow-cooked stews just adds to the whole experience.
The atmosphere of the restaurant is very local and traditional which makes you instantly feel like home. Some of their must try dishes are the fenek moqli (fried rabbit), bragioli (beef olives) and traditional stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew).
It all screams traditional maltese culture and a full tummy.
Diar il-Bniet (Dingli): Farm-to-table authentic experience
Diar il-Bniet in Dingli is the best place to visit in order to have that dinner to table experience. It is the definition of authentic food straight from the source.
Everything from the olives to the tomatoes to the pork is grown or raised locally, often on their own farm. It’s rustic, it’s real, and it’s ridiculously good.
The Harbour Club (Valletta): Waterfront fine dining with stunning views
And finally, if you want something more romantic head to The Harbour Club in Valletta.
Right on the Grand Harbour, this place combines modern style with old-world charm. The menu features fresh seafood, artisanal pasta, and killer wine pairings. Now imagine seafood, good wine and an incredible view. That is my dream vacation honestly.
Where to Stay in Malta: Best Areas for a Relaxed Stay
Picking the right base in Malta can seriously make your stay. So if you are wondering where to stay in Malta this section is for you.
Valletta: Central and Historical Charm
If you are visiting Malta for the first time this is the place to be. Valletta is where everything happens and you have easy access everywhere.
You can simply wake up in the morning and walk your way from St. John’s Co-Cathedral to the ferry piers. Plus, staying in Valletta means you are in the middle of some of Malta’s dining, museums, and cultural events.
Sliema: Coastal Relaxation and Shopping
Now, if you are going specifically to relax and enjoy the beach, Sliema should be your choice.
The good thing about this area is that you are only a boat ride away from Villetta. So if you get bored you can easily be a part of the action.
Also, Sliema has many options for visitors for maximum convenience. Restaurants, shops, cafes, and even beach clubs are right at your fingertips.
How to Travel to Neighboring Cities from Valletta
One of many advantages of staying in Valletta is how easy it is to get around the rest of Malta. Whether you need a day at the beach, a dive into ancient history, or just a lazy afternoon, here’s everything you need to know about traveling from Valletta.
Best Transportation Options (Bus, Ferry, Car Rental)
Malta has one of the best public transportation options.
Bus
The Valletta Bus Terminus is basically the hub of the entire network, meaning you can get almost anywhere on the island from here.
Tickets are cheap (around €2 for most rides), and buses run pretty frequently. So if you are looking for a way to visit spots like Mdina, Sliema, and Marsaxlokk this is a great option.
Pro tip: Download the Tallinja app. Now that everyone is online, take advantage of their app. It shows real time bus schedules and future one’s for easier planning.
Ferry
If you’re heading to Sliema or The Three Cities (like Vittoriosa or Senglea), the Valletta ferry is the option to go. It is super quick and cheap (about €1.50 one way).
This is an excellent means of transportation since you will get to enjoy a mini-cruise across the Grand Harbour. Not to mention the fact that it is very relaxing listening to the waves far from the traffic.
3 days in Malta without a Car
As I already mentioned, a car is not necessary since Malta is not that big. But, if you are planning to explore Gozo, Dingli Cliffs, or some of the more remote beaches, renting a car might be your best bet.
Pro tip: they drive on the left side here (British influence!), and parking in Valletta itself is a nightmare, so I recommend picking up your rental after you’re done with your Valletta explorations.
Recommended Day Trips from Valletta
1. Mdina and Rabat:
This ancient walled city and its lively neighbor are about a 30-minute bus ride from Valletta. Perfect for discovering Malta’s history and Game of Thrones fans.
2. Marsaxlokk Fishing Village:
This village is widely known for its famous market and colorful luzzu boats. Visiting it while you are there offers an authentic view of Malta. Buses make it an easy 45-minute ride from Valletta.
3. Gozo Island:
Visiting Gozo island needs a little bit of effort but it is totally worth it. You will have to use a bus and ferry to get there but these are very easy to get. Enjoy a full day of historic sites, and stunning beaches.
