Malta is a fascinating island country in the heart of the Mediterranean, just under the island of Sicily ( Italy ) and above Africa. Malta is one of those few, small countries that you can actually explore in just a couple of days. Warm climate and lots of sunshine attract many tourists throughout the year.

Malta has a complex history. From prehistoric times to Roman, Arab, Norman, French and British rule to today’s independent thriving republic, it has incorporated many different influences in its culture and cuisine. Maltese and English are official languages of this beautiful country with Malta and Gozo as its biggest islands. To find out more about Malta and get some essential travel information check out Malta’s official tourism page here.

My recent visit to Malta in May 2022 allowed me to uncover some of the best parts of this intriguing country. From the grandeur of Valletta to the serene streets of Mdina and the ancient marvels of Gozo, each day brought forth new adventures and treasures.

Join me as I recount my top 10 experiences in Malta, each offering a glimpse into the unique charm and allure of this captivating country. 

(My) Top 10 Experiences in Malta

1. Discover Valletta

Spend a day exploring the capital city of Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We were in complete awe of the splendor of St. John’s co-cathedral’s interior. Other notable sights to visit are: the Grandmaster’s Palace, Fort St. Elmo, the Lower and the Upper Barrakka Gardens for panoramic views of the Grand Harbour, Manuel theater etc. Don’t get frightened at noon when you hear the canons go off (saluting battery near Upper Barrakka gardens). Also, take a stroll down the Republic street and don’t forget to take a photo with Triton fountain near the city gate.

2. Go on a Horse carriage tour in Mdina

We enjoyed a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of the medieval walled city of Mdina, also known as the “Silent City.” Mdina used to be Malta’s capital for a while. Now, it’s probably more famous as one of the locations of the hugely successful TV series Game of Thrones. After our tour finished back at the city gate, we walked around the labyrinth streets of Mdina and came across an interesting museum Mdina experience. I’d definitely recommend Fontanella tea garden for some drinks with a view.

3. Take a Scenic Boat Trip from the Three Cities to Valletta

Embark on a scenic boat trip from Valletta to the Three Cities – Vittoriosa (Birgu), Senglea (Isla), and Cospicua (Bormla) or vice versa. You can use an inexpensive public ferry or do it old style like we did and cross the sea in an old wooden dgħajsa boat for just a couple of euros. It was a thrilling ride. Make sure to wander around Birgu and the Grand Harbour before you get back to Valletta. You can find these local boats in Birgu, near the archway in front of the Malta Maritime Museum. In Valletta you need to take the lift down from the Upper Barrakka Gardens and then cross the road and head to the sea.

4. Step Back in Time in Rabat

Discover the town of Rabat, located just outside Mdina, and treat yourself to local snacks while strolling through its quaint streets. I enjoyed some biskuttini tar-Rahal during our walk around Rabat. Step back in time by visiting a small museum Domus Romana which is built around the remains of an ancient Roman house. I found its floor mosaics fascinating. You can also visit St. Paul’s and St. Agata’s catacombs for some early Christian history.

5. Explore Gozo Island

Take a day trip to the neighbouring island of Gozo by public ferry and explore the ancient Ggantija Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to 3600-3200 BC. Seeing huge Neolithic temples was definitely a humbling experience for me. If you have more time you can also visit the nearby Ta’ Kola windmill with a combined ticket for both the windmill and the temples. It was very interesting to learn about the workings of a windmill and the life of the last miller there. While you’re on Gozo island you should definitely explore the citadel in Victoria (Rabat) as well. I took photos of many beautiful doors around Victoria, Gozo’s main city.

6. Climb to the Red Tower (St. Agatha’s Tower)

Hike up to the historic Red Tower, also known as St. Agatha’s Tower, for stunning panoramic views of the Maltese landscape and coastline. Unfortunately, when we came to the tower it was already closed so we couldn’t get inside. If you are visiting Gozo island from ferry port Cirkewwa you can disembark almost any bus that goes towards the port or back to Valletta once you see the red tower up the hill. Then, it’s just a 10-15 minutes uphill walk to the striking red tower.

7. Take a Vintage Bus Ride from Marsaxlokk to Valletta

Experience the nostalgic charm of Malta’s vintage buses as you travel from the traditional fishing village of Marsaxlokk to the heart of Valletta. We saw a couple of those colorful luzzu boats in Marsaxlokk but the place itself didn’t manage to put a spell on me. Since the local public bus was late for more than an hour for some reason, we decided to board a vintage bus heading to Valleta. It was a fun ride and it left a more lasting impression on me than the small village of Marsaxlokk.

8. Photograph Balconies and Red Telephone Boxes

Capture the unique architecture and charming details of Maltese balconies and iconic red telephone boxes as you wander through the streets of Maltese towns. Most of the famous British red telephone boxes left on Malta are derelict and dilapidated. However, you can still take lots of great photos of red telephone boxes for your Instagram account.

9. Enjoy Maltese food

Enjoy delicious Maltese food as we did. From hearty stews to delectable pastries, Maltese food offers a diverse and mouthwatering experience for food enthusiasts. I loved pastizzi, a savory pastry filled with ricotta cheese and we even dared to drink Kinnie, a popular Maltese soft drink made from bitter oranges and aromatic herbs which many tourists dislike. If you like sea food or rabbit you’ll be spoilt for choice in Malta.

10. Marvel at Mosta Dome

Marvel at the impressive Sanctuary Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady also known as Mosta Dome, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and home to a fascinating historical event during World War II. A German bomb fell on the church during Mass but it didn’t explode. Rotunda of Mosta as this basilica is more commonly known is Maltese largest church. We went inside the church but didn’t visit the nearby WWII shelter.

Besides the places mentioned above on my top 10 experiences in Malta list we’ve also visited Melieha briefly and strolled by the sea from St. Julian’s to Sliema. In my humble opinion, other than Valletta, everyone should visit Mdina and island of Gozo. Of course, there are still some other significant landmarks and sights that we haven’t seen during our trip such as Blue Grotto and Popeye village and beaches.

But, whether it’s exploring historical landmarks, savoring delectable Maltese cuisine, or marveling at architectural wonders, Malta offers a diverse and unforgettable travel experience for all.

*this is entirely my very personal and subjective list. Your experiences may differ. We visited Malta in May 2022.