Malta is a hidden wonder packed with history, beautiful landscapes, and lively culture. It’s a place that deserves time and attention, but with careful planning, you can still experience much of this Mediterranean marvel.
I’ve put together a suggested four-day itinerary to help you make the most of your stay, taking you from ancient cities to azure seas. Follow me to discover the real Malta and make memories for life!
1. Considerations When Planning Your Malta Travel Route
Prior to embarking on your Maltese adventure, consider a few key factors that will determine your travels:
Budget – How much you have to spend will dictate your choice of accommodation, dining, and activities.
Accommodation Options – Whether luxurious hotels in Valletta or homely guest houses in Gozo.
Time of Year – While Malta enjoys a generally hot and dry climate, summers and winters can be distinct.
Likes and Interests – History, beaches, food and drink – focus your visit on what you love.
Health and Safety – Check health advice and general safety guidelines.
Travel restrictions and Visa – Make sure you have all the paperwork you need.
2. Top Routes for a 4-Day Malta Adventure
Ready for a memorable four-day exploration of Malta? Here comes your perfect travel!
Route Overview
Over the next four days, you'll get an in-depth look at Malta, packing in history, beautiful views of the coastline and a big helping of local culture, giving you a well-rounded view of the island's highlights.
Malta 4 Days Trip Table
Day | Destination | Recommended Spots |
1 | Valletta | Blue Grotto, Central Valletta, Upper Barrakka Garden |
2 | Valletta ➡ Mdina ➡ Dingli | Three Cities, Mdina Ancient City, Watch the sunset at Dingli Cliffs |
3 | Main island ➡Comino ➡ Gozo | Blue Lagoon, Victoria, Azure Window, Natural Cave Check-in |
4 | Gozo➡ Mellieħa ➡ Valletta | Popeye Village |
Detailed Itinerary for Day 1 to Day 4
Day 1: Exploring Valletta
First, you can start with the best of Valletta, the capital and main city of Malta, which features both phenomenal sights and fascinating history. Then it’s good to head to one of the best photo spots, plus a more serene area.
What to See and Do Today:
Blue Grotto: The Blue Grotto, known for its vibrant azure waters, offers a stunning backdrop for snorkeling and photography. You can explore underwater caves and marvel at the light reflections.
Central Valletta: At the core of Valletta, you'll find St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the Grandmaster’s Palace. Their historical depth and architectural grandeur make these spots must-visits for a taste of Malta’s knightley past.
Upper Barrakka Gardens: The Upper Barrakka Gardens provide a serene escape with lush greenery and the best views over the Grand Harbour. It's the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a sunset watch.
Where to Stay: A centrally located hotel in Valletta offers convenience, placing you in the heart of the city’s vibrant culture and top dining spots.
Ensure you wear comfortable shoes to comfortably navigate Valletta's cobblestone streets, and carry water and sunscreen for your time outdoors, particularly at the Blue Grotto.
Day 2: Historical Marvels in Mdina and Dingli
This day's journey will take you through Malta's ancient cities and end with a breathtaking sunset at the cliffs, blending historical exploration with natural beauty.
What to See and Do Today:
Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua are a trio of fortified cities that offer a deep dive into Malta’s maritime history with their charming streets and centuries-old buildings. You can soak in the rich heritage and enjoy waterfront views.
Mdina Ancient City: Known as the Silent City, Mdina invites you to meander through its narrow, winding streets. St. Paul’s Cathedral stands as a beacon of history and spirituality here.
Dingli Cliffs: As Malta's highest point, Dingli Cliffs presents an unmissable sunset view that paints the sky and sea in dramatic hues. It's an ideal spot for a reflective evening or a picturesque walk along the cliffside.
Where to Stay: A guesthouse in Mdina offers you a unique opportunity to experience the tranquility of this medieval city after tourists have departed.
Begin your day early to take full advantage of exploring the Three Cities and Mdina before heading to Dingli Cliffs, and pack a jacket as the evening may bring cooler breezes.
Day 3: Island Hopping to Comino and Gozo
Experience this beautiful journey that takes you to the serene charms and natural wonders of Malta's smaller isles.
What to See and Do Today:
Blue Lagoon: A shimmering pool of aquamarine splendor on Comino, where you can swim in the brilliant azure waters, or go snorkeling. Soak up the sun on sandy shores, or dry off with a gentle float in the crystal-clear sea.
Victoria (Rabat): The Citadel is the most imposing feature of Gozo’s “capital” Victoria, and visiting the Cittadella allows you to walk the ancient streets. Discover leering, stone memorials, while the view from the high ramparts makes it worth the effort to climb them.
Azure Window: The collapsed Azure Window may be gone, but the coastal beauty remains, with easy access to natural caves in the cliffs. It's a photogenic spot which offers a glimpse of the wilder side of Gozo's coast.
Where to stay: Book a traditional Gozo farmhouse for an authentic accommodation experience surrounded by the island's rolling countryside.
Bring your snorkeling kit to explore the marine life around the Blue Lagoon and make sure to time your ferry journeys between islands.
Day 4: Fun and Relaxation in Mellieħa and Valletta
Round off your Malta adventure with a fun-filled, but relaxing, day on some of the island's best beaches.
What to See and Do Today:
Popeye Village:Built as a film set for the live-action Popeye movie, this quirky village is now a visitor attraction. Despite the somewhat strange setting, it’s a bright, colorful, and fun destination, especially for families or photographers looking for something a little different.
Mellieħa Bay: Home to one of Malta’s largest sandy beaches and an area of great natural beauty. You can dive into the clear waters for a swim, catch some rays on the golden sand, or go wild with water sports activities.
Where to Stay: A beachfront hotel in Mellieħa offers the convenience of stepping straight onto the sand and easy access to local attractions.
Get to Popeye Village early to beat the crowds, ensuring you have ample time to explore and enjoy the site's many playful offerings.
Tips for Shortening/Extending the 4-Day Route
To Shorten:
Skip the day trip to Comino and focus on Gozo.
Reduce time in Valletta by combining activities from Day 1 and Day 2.
To Extend:
Add an extra day in Gozo to explore more remote areas.
Spend additional time in Valletta for more cultural experiences and leisurely exploration
3. Top 10 Maltese Food and Drink
Maltese cuisine is a melting pot of Mediterranean flavors, reflecting the island's diverse cultural roots. Here are ten foods to sample while in Malta.
Characterized by fresh ingredients, strong tastes, and an array of Italian, British, and North African influences, Maltese food is as unique as it is delicious. Here are some key dishes:
1. Pastizzi:
Flaky pastries stuffed with ricotta or mushy peas. Ideal for a quick snack or light meal.
2. Rabbit Stew (Stuffat tal-Fenek):
The national dish of Malta, slow-cooked rabbit with garlic, herbs, and wine, resulting in a tender, rich stew.
3. Hobz biz-Zejt:
Maltese bread, served with olive oil and tomato, capers, and tuna. Packed with flavor for such a simple dish.
4. Lampuki Pie:
A pie made with lampuki, a fish better known as dorado. The fish is mixed with vegetables and enclosed in a golden crust. Best eaten in autumn, during lampuki season.
5. Bragioli: Beef olives:
Thin steak wrapped and stuffed with a mixture of egg, bacon, and herbs, then slow-cooked in a tomato gravy.
6. Kapunata:
Essentially Maltese ratatouille, a cooked veggie stew of bell peppers, aubergines, tomatoes, olives, and capers, cooked down in olive oil and herbs.
7. Timpana:
A baked pasta dish with macaroni, ground meat, and cheese baked into a pastry crust.
8. Qubbajt:
Maltese nougat, usually enjoyed during the holidays. Made from honey, nuts, and pistachios, the sweet treat comes in hard or soft varieties.
9. Kinnie:
A Maltese soft drink with a sharp flavor of bitter oranges and a blend of herbs.
10. Cisk Lager:
Malta's popular brew is a light, crisp lager that pairs perfectly with many Maltese foods and is a favorite among tourists and locals alike.
4. Additional Tips for Malta Traveling
Packing Essentials
For the deceptively powerful Maltese sun, bring light, breathable clothing that will keep you cool. Don’t forget the sunblock, a hat, and sunglasses. Prepare for plenty of walking by wearing comfortable shoes.
A reusable water bottle might come in handy for those golden rays, and a small first-aid kit can deal with any mishaps while you’re out and about.
Cash, Local Apps for Payment and Transport
While cards are accepted in most places, it helps to have some cash on you. Download apps such as Revolut or BOV Mobile Pay for making payments and Tallinja to access bus schedules and pay for charging around. Apps for ride-sharing services like Bolt or eCabs will prove useful, too.
Local Etiquette and Customs
Make life easy for yourself and others by learning a few polite local phrases. To say ‘Good morning,’ opt for ‘Bongu’ or give a ‘Grazzi’ if you’re feeling thankful.
Modesty is key when visiting religious sites, and the Maltese typically offer and receive items with the right hand. Visitors whooping it up in quiet towns like Mdina, take note.
Transport Options
Public buses serve most recognizable spots for travelers, and are generally reliable. For something a little special, ride one of the traditional dgħajsa wooden boats that ferry passengers across Valletta’s Grand Harbour.
Malta the Traditional Dghajsa Wooden Boats
Other than that, taxis, bus apps, or ferry services are the main ways of hopping between Malta, Goza and Comino, the other two islands.
Renting a Car or Scooter
They offer freedom and flexibility but don’t ignore the fact that some of Malta’s streets are narrow and parking space is often at a premium.
If hiring a Vespa, helmets aren’t an optional extra – they’re a must, and drivers should observe local traffic laws. Renting a vehicle is a sensible option, but traffic can be challenging when things get busy.
Communication: Language Tips
English is widely spoken, but learning basic Maltese phrases like “Bongu” (Hello) and “Grazzi” (Thank you) is appreciated and can enhance interactions with locals.
Summary
Explore stunning Malta with this carefully crafted four-day travel itinerary to give you a taste of everything the Mediterranean destination has to offer!
Planning days around sights such as the architectural wonders of Valletta, the sparkling waters of the Blue Lagoon and the picturesque streets of Mdina, my schedule strikes a balance between memorable experiences, cultural encounters and time for relaxation.
Use this map and trip notes to appreciate historic sites, beautiful sunsets, delicious local foods and much more. I hope it helps you make your own memories on this delightful island. Safe travels!