The Best Things to Do in Malta for an Unforgettable Summer

The Best Things to Do in Malta for an Unforgettable Summer

Malta packs an extraordinary amount into a very small island.

Within a single day, you can explore a prehistoric temple, swim beneath limestone cliffs, walk through a 16th-century fortified city and watch the sunset from the Mediterranean.

If you're planning a summer trip, these experiences deserve a place on your itinerary.

Explore Valletta

Malta's capital is one of Europe's most distinctive historic cities.

Walk through its narrow streets, visit the Upper Barrakka Gardens and explore centuries of history left by the Knights of St John.

Don't rush through Valletta.

Much of its charm lies in wandering through side streets, discovering small cafés, balconies and unexpected views across the Grand Harbour.

Visit Mdina

Known as the Silent City, Mdina is Malta's ancient fortified capital.

Its narrow medieval streets are particularly atmospheric in the evening when many daytime visitors have left.

Walk along the bastions for panoramic views across much of Malta.

Spend a Day Exploring Malta by Boat

You haven't really seen Malta until you've seen it from the water.

Much of the island's most impressive scenery faces the Mediterranean: limestone cliffs, caves, natural arches and secluded coves.

A private boat charter gives you the flexibility to swim, explore and choose an itinerary suited to the day's conditions.

Rather than following a fixed mass-tourism schedule, you can experience the coastline at your own pace.

Visit Marsaxlokk

This traditional fishing village in southern Malta is famous for its colourful boats and waterfront.

Walk along the harbour, enjoy seafood and explore Malta's southeastern coastline.

Marsaxlokk also makes an excellent starting point for discovering nearby coastal locations by sea.

Swim Somewhere Beyond the Famous Beaches

Malta's best swimming experience isn't necessarily at a sandy beach.

Natural pools, rocky coves and sheltered inlets can offer spectacularly clear water.

Explore places such as Għar Lapsi, Paradise Bay and the many swimming locations around Malta's southern coastline.

Take a Day Trip to Gozo

Gozo has a slower and more rural atmosphere than Malta.

Explore Victoria and the Citadel, visit coastal villages, swim in secluded bays and enjoy the island's dramatic landscape.

You can reach Gozo by ferry or incorporate parts of its coastline into a boat trip.

Discover Comino Beyond the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon deserves its reputation for beautiful water, but Comino has much more to offer.

The island's coastline contains caves, small bays and dramatic rock formations.

Exploring by boat allows you to discover quieter areas beyond the busiest sections of the lagoon.

Go Snorkelling

You don't need to be a scuba diver to enjoy Malta's underwater environment.

The island's clear water and rocky coastline make snorkelling accessible from countless locations.

Bring a mask on any boat trip—you'll almost certainly find somewhere worth jumping in.

Watch a Mediterranean Sunset

Sometimes the simplest experiences are the best.

Find a viewpoint along Malta's western coastline or experience sunset from the water.

Golden light against Malta's limestone cliffs creates one of the island's most memorable sights.

Don't Overplan Your Trip

Malta has plenty to see, but trying to tick off every attraction can turn a holiday into a checklist.

Leave room for spontaneous experiences.

Spend an extra hour in a bay you love.

Stop at a village you hadn't planned to visit.

Take a boat somewhere you can't reach by road.

Malta rewards exploration—and some of the best memories happen when you aren't following an itinerary.