Taking a trip to Malta can be exhilarating. The historic, picturesque, and culturally vibrant Mediterranean archipelago is a feast for the senses.
Yet planning a getaway to the islands can be every bit as daunting, contending with where to go and how you can explore it all.
That's why I make this 8-day Malta travel itinerary. Follow me, as we discover why you might want to go, and where, and how to make your visit work!
1. Considerations When Planning Your Malta Travel Route
When planning a visit to Malta, there will be several criteria you'll need to bear in mind in order to best suit your trip:
Budget: How much can you afford to spend on flights, accommodation, food, and things to do while in Malta.
Accommodation Options: Whether you're opting for a budget hostel or a luxury hotel.
Time of Year: The seasonally sunny high season or the quieter low season.
Interests and Activities: Whether you're here for beaches, history, or a bit of an adrenaline rush.
Health and Safety: Stay safe and healthy during your stay.
Travel Restrictions and Visas: Paperwork you'll need before you leave.
2. Ultimate 8-Day Malta Travel Guide
This is how to experience Malta – an eight-day itinerary filled with history, beauty and pleasure.
These eight days encompass the vivacity of Malta’s towns, the antiquity of its cities, the coastal beauty and the rural peace of the countryside. Below is our Malta travel itinerary table:
Detailed Itinerary for Day 1 to Day 8
Day | Destination | Recommended Activities and Spots |
1 | Sliema | Explore the seaside, dine at One Thai Kitchen |
2 | Valletta | Triton Fountain, Vino's Cafe Bar, Triq Sant Anton, Siege Bell War Memorial |
3 | Valletta ➡ Mdina ➡ Dingli | Visit Mdina, Dingli Cliffs, eat at Food for Fit, and Novità |
4 | Main Island ➡ Gozo | Explore Tal-Mixta Cave |
5 | Gozo | Visit It-Tieqa tad-Dwejra, Ta' Pinu Church, and Victoria |
6 | Back to the Main Island | Dine at Karamelli Brunch Cafe, Trattoria Romana Zero Sei |
7 | Main Island | Rest |
8 | Main Island | Rest, Return |
Day 1: Sliema
Base yourself in the charming coastal town of Sliema for your island adventure, which has a picturesque promenade and some of the best shopping and dining on Malta.
What to Do:
Seaside Promenade in Sliema: A favorite for its breathtaking Mediterranean views, this promenade is perfect for you to soak in the tranquil atmosphere and enjoy casual strolls.
It’s hard to find better views of the Mediterranean than Sliema's shore, enjoy the tranquility and take a stroll.
Shopping in Sliema: The local boutiques and vibrant markets offer you a treasure trove of unique finds, making it a must-visit for exclusive shopping.
Dining at One Thai Kitchen: A rare example of excellent fusion cooking, blending Thai cuisine with Maltese ingredients, perfect for an evening’s relaxation after a day’s exploration.
Where to Stay: Opt for a beachfront hotel for stunning sea views and easy access to local attractions.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the promenade and exploring the town.
Day 2: Valletta
An ancient city packed with cultural richness and historical landmarks, Valletta is a visitor's dream destination.
What to Do:
Triton Fountain: The enchanting entry point to Valletta, this artistic masterpiece features jetting water displays and a dramatic aesthetic, making it a perfect destination to begin your city tour.
Vino's Cafe Bar: Enjoy a coffee and take a break at this convenient cafe, offering beautiful views over Valletta's many streets and waterfront.
Triq Sant Anton: Take a slow wander through the street at the heart of Malta's history, admiring age-old architecture and exploring this timeless aesthetic.
Siege Bell War Memorial: A monument to Malta's role in the Second World War, the dramatic oceanside memorial is a poignant tribute to those lost, while the ringing bell acts as a solemn reminder of lives given.
Where to Stay: Choose accommodation within walking distance of the main attractions.
Start your day early to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler morning temperatures.
Day 3: Valletta, Mdina and Dingli
Today, immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Mdina and the stunning natural beauty of Dingli Cliffs—a perfect blend of history and scenery.
What to Do:
Mdina, the "Silent City": The beautiful architecture and peaceful streets of the ancient walled city are a history lesson in themselves, inviting you for a relaxing stroll.
Dingli Cliffs: Offering some stunning views over the Mediterranean, it's well worth the walk to the top to enjoy the sea air and landscape.
Food for Fit: A great spot for a healthy meal, serving local and fresh food that doesn't compromise on taste or healthiness.
Novelty: Treat yourself to some NICOLA PRETI desserts, which are as famed for their inventive approach as they are for taste – an ideal reward after a day of sightseeing.
Where to Stay: Consider a boutique hotel in Mdina for a unique and historic experience.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and historic architecture.
Day 4: Main Island and Gozo
It’s off to Gozo, an island paradise known for its tranquility and stunning landscapes, and the perfect place for a mix of adventure and relaxation.
Activities:
Tal-Mixta Cave: Located overlooking the beautiful Ramla Bay, Tal-Mixta Cave is more than just a great vantage point, it’s a portal to the wonders of Gozo itself. Take some panorama shots, enjoy a scenic picnic, or soak up the natural beauty.
Where to Stay: Opt for a cozy guesthouse in Gozo for a more personal experience.
Plan your ferry trip in advance to ensure smooth travel to Gozo.
Day 5: Gozo
Today, you will discover what Gozo has to offer – a wealth of historical sites and natural wonders to fill your day with wonder and beauty.
What to Do
It-Tieqa tad-Dwejra: While the legendary Azure Window may have collapsed, the site still offers spectacle, with stunning coastal views and crystal-clear blue waters, ripe for snorkeling or photography.
Ta' Pinu Church: The site of countless pilgrimages is both a place of spiritual importance and an architectural delight, with a few moments of serenity and contemplation surrounded by beauty.
Victoria: Gozo's capital is a wonder of history and tradition. Get lost in the narrow streets of the Citadel, enjoy panoramic views from its walls and sample local culture in the shops and cafés.
Where to Stay: Continue your stay in the guesthouse for convenience.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring Gozo's attractions.
Day 6: Back to the Main Island
Head back over to the main island for a day full of luxurious dining experiences and a mixture of relaxation and exploration.
What to Do:
Karamelli Brunch Cafe: A homely cafe, Karamelli Brunch is perfect for a morning meal that always manages to blend local and international tastes – and is delicious to boot!
Trattoria Romana Zero Sei: An Italian eatery that transports you to Rome by way of your taste buds. The simple, traditional fare served here contrasts with the rich, warm ambiance for a full-flavored dinner.
Where to Stay: Choose accommodation in a central location for easy access to dining and leisure options.
Take it easy today and enjoy a slower pace after the busy days exploring.
Day 7-8: Main Island
Take your time over the next couple of days and take in the relaxed and peaceful feeling of the surroundings – the ideal detox before returning home.
What to Do:
Leisure Time: These days are yours to enjoy at your own pace! Whether you prefer lounging on sun-kissed beaches or exploring the plush amenities of your hotel, relaxation is at your fingertips.
Where to Stay: Continue your stay in the central location for convenience.
1. Use this day to relax, reflect on your trip, and prepare for departure.
2. Double-check your travel arrangements, pack your bags, and savor your last moments in Malta.
How to Shorten/Extend the 8-Day Route
Shortening the Trip:
Skip Gozo: Focus on exploring the main island of Malta, reducing travel time.
Condense Valletta Activities: Visit key sites in Valletta in one day.
Extending the Trip:
Extra Days in Valletta: Spend more time exploring museums and historical sites.
Additional Gozo Exploration: Discover more hidden gems and hiking trails on Gozo.
3. Top 10 Maltese Food and Drink
Once you’ve explored Malta’s breathtaking scenery and captivating history, you will, of course, want to sample the local cuisine. Thankfully, Maltese food is as rewarding and delicious as the Islands themselves.
1. Pastizzi
A flaky pastry parcel packed with ricotta cheese or mushy peas, often served as a street food snack.
2. Rabbit Stew (Stuffat tal-Fenek)
The most famous of Maltese dishes, rabbit is slow-cooked in red wine with garlic, tomatoes and herbs, then more often than not served with crusty Maltese bread.
3. Ftira
A Maltese bread, typically round and flat, used to make a delicious – if somewhat messy – Island take on a sandwich, stuffed with tuna, tomato, capers, and olives.
4. Kapunata
Malta's answer to ratatouille is a hearty casserole of aubergines, tomatoes, bell peppers and capers, served cold.
5. Aljotta
A fish soup thickened with rice, tomatoes, garlic and fresh herbs, ideal for lovers of seafood.
6. Bragioli
Beef olives, despite the name, are rolls of thin beef slices wrapped around a stuffing of minced meat, breadcrumbs and egg then simmered in a tomato sauce.
7. Bigilla
A dip of mashed broad beans, garlic and olive oil; eat with fresh bread or crackers.
8. Timpana
Pasta anyone? A local speciality is this baked pasta pie containing macaroni, Bolognese, egg and amp; cheese all enclosed in a flaky pastry.
9. Imqaret
Fried pastry encasing spiced dates; delicious and especially good with coffee.
10. Kinnie
Malta’s home-made answer to Coca-Cola. A soft drink made from bitter oranges and a mix of secret cola herbs, it’s a unique and all-natural sip.
4. Additional Tips for Malta Traveling
Packing Essentials
When preparing for Malta, choose lightweight, comfortable clothing due to the Mediterranean climate. Sun protection is a must – pack plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Swimwear will be essential on beach days, while comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring.
A light jacket may be needed for cooler evenings. Remember travel adaptors, a reusable water bottle, and any medications you require.
Cash, Local Apps for Payment, and Transport
While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, some cash for smaller expenses is always handy. Local apps including Revolut and BOV Mobile also offer cashless payment options.
For getting around, download apps such as Bolt for rideshare services or Tallinja for bus services and tickets. Both make it easy to navigate your way around the islands.
Local Etiquette and Customs
Spend some time learning the etiquette in Malta – it can make or break your experience there. Common greetings are “Bongu” for good morning and “Grazzi” to say thank you.
Dress conservatively in places of worship or when passing through residential areas. Avoid loud conversations in public and offer and accept items only with your right hand. Trying a few Maltese phrases is a sign of respect and appreciated by locals.
Transport Options
Prepare for all the transport options that Malta has to offer. Public buses are the main public transport, serving most of the attractions and cities at very cheap prices.
Ferries connect the three main islands – Malta, Gozo, and Comino – while taxis and the Bolt app come in handy for shorter distances. Consider hiring a car, too, though expect heavy traffic.
Renting a Car or Scooter
Renting a car or a scooter in Malta offers maximum freedom to travel according to your schedule.
On the flipside, driving on Malta's packed roads can be stressful and finding parking, particularly in busy areas, can be a challenge. Scooter users must wear helmets by law in Malta, while drivers need to hold an international driving permit.
Communication: Language Tips
English is one of Malta's two official languages, but knowing a smattering of Maltese can break the ice with locals. Key phrases include “Iva” (Yes), “Le” (No), “Jekk jogħġbok” (Please), and “Grazzi” (Thank you).
Road signage also appears in Maltese and English, making driving even easier for English-speaking tourists.
Summary
As we conclude this 10-day itinerary, remember that each step of your journey is yours to tailor. We've laid out a path filled with potential adventures and serene moments。
Now it's your turn to make them your own. Enjoy your travels and may this guide help make your trip truly wonderful!