Between Sicily and the North African coast, the tiny Mediterranean nation of Malta is one of best beach destinations in Europe. It has a laidback med’ vibe with picture perfect beaches and amazing diving. And would you believe that Malta also has the highest density of historic sights on the planet! Whether you want to lounge at the beach, eat all day, explore the depths of the Mediterranean, or wander around a 5000-year-old necropolis, you can do it here.
The quick fire five… There is a massive amount to explore across the three islands of Malta, Gonzo and Comino but we picked five activities that should get you started.
1 Explore Valletta: Walk the fortifications, wander St. John’s Co-Cathedral, visit the history museum and the National War Museum, see a plethora of churches, stroll the narrow roads and alleys. Don’t miss the catacombs that were turned into a secret military base during World War II and the Cold War.
2 Wander Mdina: Mdina is a fortified city and served as the original capital of the country. Be sure to visit the nearby catacombs and ancient Roman house while you’re here. And don’t miss the Knights of Malta museum if you want a quirky and wonderfully outdated experience.
3 a coastal Hike On Gonzo: The coastal trails in Gozo offer a few different routes around the island for anyone looking to stretch their legs. If you can only do one, hike from Marsalforn to the (sadly now gone) Azure Window. Keep your eyes peeled for all the traditional salt pans that have been used to harvest salt over the centuries.
4 See the Tarxien Temples: Located near Valletta, this UNESCO World Heritage Site dates to 3150 BC. The temples were used for rituals, which may have included animal sacrifices and cremations. While mostly ruins and rubble, it’s one of the best ways to learn about the history of the island.
5 Relax on a beach: If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to schedule in some time for the beaches. Golden Bay, Mellieha Bay, Peter’s Pool, and Paradise Bay are all great places to soak up some rays. Be sure to arrive early so you can beat the crowds.
