Discovering Malta Top Things to See and Do

When considering what to do in Malta, you'll find that the land chain in the Mediterranean Sea is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its stunning coastline, fascinating history, and warm climate, Malta offers a embarrassment of activities for visitors. Whether you're interested in exploring ancient ruins, relaxing on beautiful beaches, or indulging in delicious cuisine, Malta has something for everyone. Here's a guide to some of the best things to do in Malta.

Explore Valletta

Start your journey in Malta's capital, Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning Baroque architecture, narrow streets, and historic strongholds. Visit St. John's Co-Cathedral, home to Caravaggio's masterpiece "The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist," and explore the Grand Master's Palace, which houses the Palace Armoury, one of the world's largest collections of arms and armor.

Visit the Three Cities

Just across the Grand Harbour from Valletta, the Three Cities of Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua offer a glimpse into Malta's maritime history. Explore the narrow streets, visit the Maritime Museum, and take a boat ride around the harbor for a unique perspective of these historic cities.

Discover Mdina

It is known as the "Silent City," Mdina is a fortified medieval town with narrow streets, ancient buildings, and stunning views. Visit the Mdina Cathedral, explore the Mdina Dungeons, and take a walk along the city walls for panoramic views of the island.

Visit the Blue Grotto

Located on the southern coast of Malta, the Blue Grotto is a series of attractive sea caves renowned for their stunning azure waters. Take a boat tour to explore the caves and marvel at the natural beauty of this unique attraction.

Sample Maltese Cuisine

When considering what to do in Malta, exploring its cooking is a must. Malta's cuisine is a delicious blend of Mediterranean flavors, influenced by Italian, Arabic, and British cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to try local specialties such as rabbit stew, pastizzi (flaky pastries filled with ricotta or mushy peas), and ftira (Maltese bread).

Explore Gozo

Take a short ferry ride from Malta to Gozo, Malta's sister island, known for its charming villages, beautiful coastline, and historic sites. Visit the Ggantija Temples, the oldest free-standing structures in the world, and relax on the beaches of Ramla Bay.

Visit the Hypogeum

Located in Paola, the Hypogeum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's best-preserved prehistoric underground temples. Explore this interesting site, which dates back over 5,000 years and offers a sight into Malta's ancient past.

Enjoy the Festivals

Malta is known for its lively festivals, which celebrate everything from religious feast days to music and arts. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the vibrant atmosphere of events such as the Malta International Arts Festival and the Malta Jazz Festival.

Explore the Megalithic Temples

Malta is home to several megalithic temples, some of which are among the oldest freestanding structures in the world. The temples of Hagar Qim, Mnajdra, and Tarxien are must-visit sites for history enthusiasts, offering a fascinating glimpse into Malta's prehistoric past.

Wander through the Fishing Villages

Malta's fishing villages, such as Marsaxlokk and Marsascala, are charming destinations where you can experience traditional Maltese life. Stroll along the waterfront, admire the colorful fishing boats, and sample fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.

Visit the Popeye Village

For a fun and quirky experience, visit Popeye Village in Mellieha, which was originally built as a film set for the 1980 musical "Popeye." Today, it's a popular tourist attraction where you can explore the village, watch live shows, and even meet Popeye himself.

Experience the Nightlife

Malta's nightlife is vibrant and varied, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues to choose from. Paceville in St. Julian's is known for its lively nightlife, with numerous bars and clubs where you can dance the night away.

Take a Boat Trip

When considering what to do in Malta, exploring its coastline from the sea is a must. Take a boat trip around the island to visit hidden coves, swim in secluded bays, and enjoy stunning views of the coastline. Boat trips are also available to the nearby island of Comino, home to the famous Blue Lagoon, where you can swim in crystal-clear waters and relax on the sandy beach.

Explore the Coastal Walks

Malta offers some breathtaking coastal walks that allow you to explore the island's stunning scenery. The Dingli Cliffs, located on the western coast of Malta, offer panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, while the Sliema to St. Julian's coastal walk provides a scenic route dotted with cafes and shops.

Discover the Craft Villages

Malta is known for its traditional crafts, and visiting the craft villages is a great way to experience these traditions firsthand. Ta' Qali Crafts Village is home to local artisans who produce handmade goods such as pottery, glassware, and lace, while the village of Ta' Dbiegi in Gozo is known for its handmade leather goods.

Conclusion

When considering what to do in Malta, it's clear that this destination offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're exploring earliest skeletons, relaxing on beautiful beaches, or spoiling in delicious cuisine, Malta is sure to captivate you with its charm and beauty.