Malta, a sun-drenched archipelago in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, is a treasure trove of ancient history, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant European culture. Packed with prehistoric temples, dramatic cliffs, and stunning beaches, this tiny island nation offers an unforgettable holiday. Here are the top 7 things to do in Malta, complete with their best locations, expected costs, and ideal timings.
1. Exploring the Historic Streets of Valletta
Valletta, Malta’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a fortified city famous for its Baroque architecture, narrow hills, and stunning sea views. Don't miss visiting St. John's Co-Cathedral, which houses masterpieces by Caravaggio.
- 📍 Best Location: Republic Street and Upper Barrakka Gardens, Valletta
- 💰 Estimated Cost: Free to walk around ($16 entry fee for the Co-Cathedral)
- ⏰ Best Time of Day: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM (for sightseeing) or 6:00 PM for a sunset view over the Grand Harbour
2. Swimming in the Crystal Lagoon and Blue Lagoon
Located on the tiny island of Comino, the Blue Lagoon is world-famous for its neon-turquoise, swimming-pool-like water. It is the ultimate Mediterranean spot for swimming, snorkeling, and taking boat tours.
- 📍 Best Location: Comino Island (accessible via ferry from Cirkewwa or Marfa)
- 💰 Estimated Cost: $15 - $35 for a round-trip ferry or full-day boat cruise
- ⏰ Best Time of Day: Early morning (8:30 AM) to beat the heavy tourist crowds
3. Stepping Back in Time in Mdina (The Silent City)
Medina is Malta’s medieval capital, sitting majestically on top of a hill. Known as "The Silent City," its labyrinth of golden stone alleys, grand palaces, and quiet atmosphere makes you feel like you've walked into a historical movie set (or Game of Thrones!).
- 📍 Best Location: Main Gate and Bastion Viewpoint, Mdina
- 💰 Estimated Cost: Free entry
- ⏰ Best Time of Day: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM (beautiful during sunset and romantic when illuminated at night)
4. Boat Touring through the Blue Grotto
The Blue Grotto is a complex of seven sea caves surrounded by massive limestone cliffs. Taking a traditional Maltese boat tour inside the caves reveals an incredible natural display of glowing blue water reflected against the rock ceilings.
- 📍 Best Location: Wied iż-Żurrieq (The valley harbor where boats depart)
- 💰 Estimated Cost: Approximately $10 for the short boat ride
- ⏰ Best Time of Day: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM (when morning sunlight strikes the water perfectly)
5. Sunday Seafood Dining at Marsaxlokk Fish Market
Marsaxlokk is a traditional, picturesque fishing village famous for its harbor crowded with colorful, eye-painted Maltese boats called Luzzus. The open-air market sells everything from fresh Mediterranean catches to local honey and souvenirs.
- 📍 Best Location: Marsaxlokk Waterfront Promenade
- 💰 Estimated Cost: Free entry ($15 - $30 for a fresh seafood lunch at the harborside restaurants)
- ⏰ Best Time of Day: Sunday Morning (8:00 AM – 2:00 PM for the main weekly fish market)
6. Diving the Blue Hole and Exploring Gozo Island
Malta’s sister island, Gozo, is greener, quieter, and full of rugged landscapes. It is a world-class scuba diving destination, boasting the famous "Blue Hole"—a natural limestone marine pool that drops deep into the sea.
- 📍 Best Location: Dwejra Bay, Gozo Island
- 💰 Estimated Cost: $5 for the passenger ferry to Gozo; $50 - $80 for guided scuba diving
- ⏰ Best Time of Day: Full-day trip (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
7. Sunset Watching at Dingli Cliffs
As the highest point in Malta, the dramatic Dingli Cliffs plunge straight down into the Mediterranean Sea. Walking along the edge of these sheer cliffs offers endless sea horizons and the most spectacular sunset views on the main island.
- 📍 Best Location: Near St. Mary Magdalene Chapel, Dingli
- 💰 Estimated Cost: Free entry
- ⏰ Best Time of Day: 1 hour before sunset
🌍 Check Live Mediterranean Weather Conditions
Because Malta is an island destination, sea trips to the Blue Lagoon and boat rides into the Blue Grotto depend entirely on wind patterns and wave heights. Rough seas can cancel boat operations completely.
Visit our Live Global Weather Platform to check real-time wave updates, wind speeds, and day-by-day temperatures for Valletta and the Maltese islands to ensure smooth sailing.
Summary: How Many Days Do You Need in Malta?
To truly experience Malta, Gozo, and Comino without rushing, a 4 to 5-day itinerary is ideal. This gives you enough time to explore Valletta's historical palaces, swim in the clear lagoons, and discover the rustic charm of the countryside.