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Our tips for first-time visitors on how to spend a week this summer in Malta!
Known for being one of the best places in Europe to spend a summer holiday, Malta welcomed over three million tourists in 2023, marking a significant milestone. This figure surpassed the previous record high of nearly 2.8 million visitors in 2019 before Covid. When it comes to dishing out the dosh, tourists collectively spent a total of €2.7 billion in Malta throughout the year, with each visitor splashing out an average of €132 per day.
Although Malta is one of the smallest countries in the world, it packs a punch when it comes to sightseeing and things to do. We compiled a list of things any first-time visitor should do if they want to get the most out of their week on the islands, so let’s dive right in:
1. Valletta (Spend 1.5 days here)
Your one-week itinerary in Malta should start in Valletta, the country’s capital. After landing, you have several options to reach Valletta from the airport:
- Rent a car: Consider renting a car after your initial visit to Valletta (around 2 days after your arrival). You won’t need a car within the capital city and finding parking will be challenging. So save money by renting a car later on for the rest of your trip.
- Take the X4 Bus: The X4 bus departs every 30 minutes from the airport and costs €1.50. It’s the cheapest option, but keep in mind that bus schedules can be unpredictable at times, especially when there’s a lot of congestion.
- Taxi: A taxi ride to your hotel in Valletta will cost a fixed price of €15 for the 15-minute journey.
Where to Stay in Valletta
Choose accommodation options that suit your budget, as Valletta has them all. Valletta offers a mix of boutique hotels, charming guesthouses and some luxury options. Explore the historic streets, visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral and enjoy the local cuisine. Cross the Grand Harbour by water taxi and visit the 3 Cities namely Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua. Like Valletta, it will feel like walking around in living history. There’s a lot to see and do here as well as in the capital city and our best advice is to compile a list beforehand of what you want to do as it is unlikely that you will be able to fit it all in.
2. Marsaxlokk (Spend 1 day here)
After Valletta, head south and visit Marsaxlokk, a charming fishing village known for its colourful boats and lively Sunday market. Enjoy fresh seafood by the waterfront.
Where to Stay in Marsaxlokk
While Marsaxlokk is a day trip destination, consider returning to your base in Valletta or Mellieha.
3. Mellieha (Spend 2 days here)
Head to Mellieha, a picturesque seaside town in the north of Malta with stunning views. Spend your days exploring the beaches of Golden Bay and Ghajn Tuffieha. Don’t miss the nearby Popeye Village, a quirky film set turned attraction.
Where to Stay in Mellieha
Consider staying in a cosy guesthouse or even a beachfront hotel. Mellieha offers a relaxed atmosphere and easy access to all the northern beaches.
4. Gozo (Spend 2 days here)
From Mellieha, travel on to Cirkewwa and take the ferry to Gozo, Malta’s sister island. Explore its rugged coastline, visit the Citadel in Victoria and relax on Ramla Bay. Gozo has so many bays and inlets perfect for swimming, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Don’t forget to try the local food and wine at one of the countless restaurants across the island.
Make sure to visit one of the oldest man-made structures in the world, the Ġgantija Archaeological Park Complex in Xaghra for which Gozo is world famous.
Where to Stay in Gozo?
Choose from a variety of accommodation options near the capital of Gozo, Victoria, or opt for something in Xlendi, Qala, or even a farmhouse in San Lawrenz.
Other Ideas for Your 1-Week Trip to Malta
- Visit St. Peter’s Pool near Marsaskala and Marsaxlokk: Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of St. Peter’s Pool.
- Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples: Explore these ancient megalithic temples in the south of Malta.
- Visit the Comino Blue Lagoon: Spend a day on Comino Island, swimming in the Blue Lagoon’s turquoise waters. Charter a boat so you can arrange your own time to arrive and leave, as it can get hectically busy at peak season times.
- Balluta Bay, St Julian’s and Paceville: This area is party central in Malta. Shop till you drop, dance the night away, gamble at one of the casinos and recover on the beach at St George’s Bay the day after.
- Mdina: Another must-see on anyone’s list. Known as the “Silent City”, Mdina will take a good part of your day to explore.
- The Blue Grotto: Located on the south-eastern side of Malta near the towns of Qrendi and Zurrieq, a boat trip exploring the caves and Wied iz-Zurrieq will be an unforgettable experience.
Weather you can expect
Expect warm and sunny weather during the summer months from June to September. To beat the heat, explore shaded areas in the mornings and visit air-conditioned museums and churches in the afternoons. Enjoy your unforgettable summer adventure!
