Malta offers numerous attractions to see and explore, beginning with Valletta as a UNESCO World Heritage city and ticking off significant sights like St John’s Co-Cathedral (home of Caravaggio’s ‘Beheading of John the Baptist’) and Lower and Upper Barrakka Gardens. You can also embark on an underground Valletta tour for an exciting journey beneath Malta’s surface. Discover the best info about renting a boat in Malta.
From there, head to Dingli for its majestic and rugged cliffs as well as the incredible Blue Grotto. Be sure to walk along these magnificent cliffs during sunset; their beauty cannot be beaten.
Valletta
Valletta, located on one of Europe’s grandest harbors, is an illustrious city with a long and distinguished history. Established by Knights of Saint John in 1566, its UNESCO-listed capital offers an enchanting mix of historical sites and cultural events; whether your interest lies in history, cuisine, artisanal shops, or boutique shopping, there’s something here for everyone in Valletta!
While exploring Malta’s streets with your guide, captivating narratives about Malta’s Knights and their cultural and architectural legacies will unfold before your eyes. Behold the grand Saint John Co-Cathedral; its eight chapels represent different langues (regions) of Knights while boasting remarkable pieces like Caravaggio’s The Beheading of Saint John on display inside it.
Lower Barrakka Gardens offer stunning views of both Grand Harbour and Three Cities, and at noon, watch Saluting Battery fire a cannon! Visit at noon every day except Sundays!
Fort St Elmo is another must-see landmark in Valletta. It features circular slabs atop its pavered surface that serve as lids to underground granaries; visitors can explore this building on Notte Bianca (Malta’s annual arts and culture festival), or through guided tours.
Marsaxlokk
Marsaxlokk is an idyllic seaside village offering an abundance of activities for families to enjoy together. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there’s something fun here for everyone.
Marsaxlokk’s sheltered harbor offers plenty of activities, from strolling alongside colorful traditional Maltese fishing boats (fuzzified) to admiring their craftsmanship, which has long been considered symbolic of Malta.
This lovely village boasts many attractions, but one that stands out is the Tas-Silg complex – comprised of an archaeological site, chapel, and fort. Dating back thousands of years, this fascinating site gives an insight into Malta’s rich history.
If you’re ready to head out onto the waters, there are a number of individuals and small companies offering boat tours around Marsaxlokk’s harbor. Charlie’s Boat Trips stands out as a trendy option, providing tours tailored specifically for each interest.
St Peter’s Pool is an exquisite natural pool located on Delimara Point near Marsaxlokk. The tranquil, azure waters provide ideal swimming and sunbathing conditions, and nearby cliffs offer jump-off points into the water or tranquil relaxation spots on flat rocks. Just a short stroll from Marsaxlokk’s center brings this hidden treasure, which can be reached via scenic coastal routes in under 40 minutes.
Cospicua
Cospicua may not be as well-known as its Two Cities counterparts, but it remains an intriguing place to visit. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site and boasting historical attractions like Church of Immaculate Conception and Cottonera Lines, Cospicua provides plenty of activities for tourists looking for adventure.
Defensive walls surround Cospicua City. While most have been damaged during its turbulent history, Cottonera Lines remain standing. These fortifications were originally constructed by Knights to guard Cospicua, Vittoriosa, and Senglea ports.
One of the city’s highlights is the collegiate church, miraculously spared from bombing during WWII. Inside, it is decorated with stunning works of art that create a magical ambiance visitors are sure to appreciate.
Cospicua is an ideal place for visitors looking to gain an authentic taste of Malta life. The streets are lined with charming alleyways and houses, which give the town its unique character; residents are friendly as you get an insider look into the culture of this island, not to mention fresh seafood restaurants which serve delicious fare from this area!
Sliema
Sliema’s multiple rocky beaches make it an ideal swimming and sunbathing spot. The clear Mediterranean waters roll over white-tinted pebbles for snorkeling enthusiasts. A small sandy beach near Exiles and one at Balluta Bay provides ample spots to lay out a towel and catch some rays.
Tigne Point is famous for its shopping and dining. Modern malls line its boulevards while boutiques and artisan bakers occupy various blocks throughout its boundaries. Furthermore, this area serves as an epicenter of cultural events such as an art festival and historic theatre.
If you prefer exploring Sliema on foot, the two-kilometer seaside promenade that runs along Tower Road provides unobstructed views and allows visitors to soak up some salty air as they stroll from Qui-Si-Sana to St Julian’s – passing British military bases turned restaurants and 17th-century watchtowers and churches along the way; terrace townhouses boasting chic pastel paint jobs; terrace townhouses of various shapes;
St Julian’s Bay offers trendy bars and cocktail lounges perfect for an enjoyable night out, including La Vecchia Napoli for mouthwatering pizza and The Chophouse for succulent meat dishes. Additionally, for something unique, the Earth Garden Festival provides an unmissable outdoor music event!
