10 Best Things to do in Malta

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Planning a trip to Malta? Get ready for an unforgettable island escape.

This Mediterranean gem is full of sunshine, history, and some of the clearest waters we have ever swum in! What we love about this island is that there’s something here for every kind of traveler, from the ancient streets of Valletta to the quiet beauty of Gozo. We’ve had so much fun sailing, snorkeling, and sampling local drinks here, so now we’re going to share our favorite things to do. 

So if you need some inspiration on what to do in Malta, we’ve got the ultimate guide, plus all of the need-to-know info about each activity. Ready to plan your perfect trip? Let’s go!

Things to do in Malta

1. See the best of Gozo on a tuk tuk

• Duration: 7 hours
• Time: 8 am
• Highlights: Visit Gozo’s most beautiful and historic sites by tuk tuk with a local guide, enjoy a traditional lunch, and swim in a crystal clear lagoon
• Inclusions: Multilingual guide, return transfer from Malta and Gozo, ferry ticket to Gozo and back, lunch
• Rating: 4.7 stars (check 1,460+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Just about every visitor to Malta makes the trip to Gozo, but a lot of folks only hit the highlights and miss the hidden gems. That’s why we put this full-day trip to Gozo at the top of the list, because it takes you to the must-see spots and then some!

After taking a beautiful ferry ride over to Gozo, we jumped into our own private tuk-tuk and began exploring the island. The first stop of the day was Sanap Cliffs, where we were treated to stunning views of the area.

Just down the road was my favorite stop, the Ggantija Temples (ticket not included). These are some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world, even older than the pyramids in Egypt, which I thought was mind-boggling!

The Citadel is another architectural wonder from the medieval period that, as history buffs, we thought was super cool. It was built to protect people from pirates back in the day, but the area where it sits has been inhabited for over 7,000 years. 

But it’s not all old buildings and history. This tour had us snapping photos left and right of the island’s beautiful landscape around every turn. The views at Dwejra Bay, Xwejni Salt Pans, and Blue Lagoon were all jaw-dropping. Just don’t forget your swimsuit so you can take a dip in the lagoon after a full day of adventure!

Check availability and book this epic tour to Gozo here!

2. Relax on a private sailing charter 

• Duration: 9 hours 
• Time: 9 am 
• Highlights: Sailing past St. Paul’s Islands, swimming and snorkeling in Comino’s Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon, exploring Valletta’s Grand Harbour
• Inclusions: Skipper/guide, private boat charter, fuel, water, snorkeling equipment, all taxes
• Rating: 5 stars (check 600+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: No
• Price: Check price here!

Spending the day sailing around Malta on this private boat charter is the ultimate way to enjoy the island, and it was certainly one of the highlights of our trip. We boarded the boat at Kalkara Marina, which is tucked inside the stunning Valletta Grand Harbour, and were greeted by our skipper, Josh, who made us feel right at home from the start. 

The sea was a bit choppy that morning, but Josh knew exactly where to take us. He guided us into calm, crystal-clear lagoons where we could swim and snorkel safely. 

We opted to have lunch on the boat, and I’m so glad that we did! The food was fresh and delicious, especially the swordfish. While we ate, we drifted peacefully near Comino, with views of the famous Blue Lagoon and the lesser-known but equally beautiful Crystal Lagoon. We got to see so much in just one day! 

What’s great about this tour is that you can book it for between 2 and 15 people, so whether you want a romantic day out as a couple or a fun group trip, this tour has you covered. Don’t pass up the chance to soak in Malta’s coastal beauty without the crowds.

We’d do it again in a heartbeat—and it’s clear we aren’t the only ones. Check out HUNDREDS of five-star reviews here to see why travelers say this was the highlight of their trip!

Book this epic private sailing charter here, before it sells out!

3. Learn about Valletta on a private walking tour

• Duration: 3 hours
• Time: 9 am–6 pm
• Highlights: Get the most out of the history and culture of Valletta on a private walking tour of the city, visit iconic sights, see UNESCO-listed baroque architecture, and explore local hidden gems only an experienced guide can show you 
• Inclusions: Private tour, English-speaking guide
• Rating: 5 stars (check 150+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

If you’re the kind of traveler who wants more than just some nice pictures, this private walking tour of Valletta is the best way to uncover the city’s ancient and fascinating history. We were blown away by our guide, Alizea. Her knowledge of the city’s architecture and its often overlooked history gave us a deeper understanding than any other tour we’ve done in Malta. 

One fact that stuck with us is that Valletta was one of the first planned cities in Europe and was laid out in a strict grid system after the Great Siege of 1565, to make it easier to defend. Once we learned this, we could really appreciate the city’s perfectly straight streets and admire its impressive bastions that have been used to defend its inhabitants for hundreds of years.

Some of our favorite stops included the Upper Barrakka Gardens with their incredible harbor views and the magnificent St. John’s Cathedral, which Alizea brought to life with stories of the Knights of St. John and their impact on Malta’s history.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to understand the significance of Valletta and not just see it as another postcard destination. With Alizea’s insights, every corner of the city felt like a window into Malta’s past. It’s a tour that leaves you with more than just photos; it leaves you with a true appreciation of Malta’s incredible heritage!

You can book this five-star history walking tour here

Related Read: If you’re staying in Valletta, check out our 9 favorite things to do in Valletta to help you plan an epic trip!

4. Discover prehistoric Maltese monuments and archaeological sights  

• Duration: 6–8 hours
• Time: 10 am
• Highlights: Conveniently visit Malta’s ancient temples, ruins, and monuments with a private driver, but explore each at your own pace with a self-guided audio tour 
• Inclusions: Private air-conditioned transportation from your hotel to all sites, entry into each location, bottled water 
• Rating: 5 stars (check 300+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

If you’re the type of traveler who likes to set your own pace, this self-guided tour of Malta’s ancient sites is the perfect choice. With private transport included, you can explore the island’s most fascinating prehistoric sites—from ancient temples to mysterious ruins—without the hassle of navigating on your own or sticking to a rigid group schedule.

We loved how this tour let us fully immerse ourselves in each stop without feeling like we were being pushed through, like you sometimes are on a group tour. From the awe-inspiring Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples to the incredible Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, you’ll have the freedom to linger as long as you like.

Plus, entrance fees are included, so there’s no waiting in line or hidden fees, which is always a big deal for us!

One of the best parts? Our driver was super friendly and knowledgeable. He shared extra insights and local tidbits at each stop, giving us context we might have missed on our own. Plus, he was always ready and waiting whenever we were finished, making the whole experience seamless and stress-free.

We also loved the stop at Marsaxlokk, a quaint fishing village with colorful boats and a local market. A perfect way to experience the local and slower-paced way of Maltese life.

If you’re an independent traveler who prefers to explore at your own pace, this tour is the ultimate way to dive into Malta’s ancient past with a little extra comfort along the way.

Book this prehistoric experience here!

5. See the Blue Lagoon, beaches, and bays on a catamaran tour

Duration: 6 hours
Time: 9:30 am, 11 am, or 4:30 pm
Highlights: Sailing on a spacious catamaran, swimming and snorkeling at prime locations including the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and Ghajn Tuffieha Bay, lounging on sunbeds and nets
Inclusions: Catamaran boat tour, use of sunbeds, drinks, optional traditional BBQ lunch with one drink (available for purchase onboard)
Rating: 4.5 stars (check 1,100+ reviews here)
Free cancellation: Yes
Price: Check price here!

If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic day out on the water, this catamaran tour ticks all the boxes. We set sail from St. Paul’s Bay on a sunny morning and found ourselves instantly settling into the rhythm of the sea. The boat is huge, so even with a full group, it never felt crowded. 

Our first swim stop was the Blue Lagoon. Even though it’s popular, the crew anchored in a quieter section so we could enjoy it without the crowds. Later, we cruised to the Crystal Lagoon, which was just as beautiful with deeper water and dramatic cliffs. The snorkeling here was just fantastic—definitely some of the best that we’ve enjoyed in Malta.

We decided to buy lunch on board for an extra €15, and we got a delicious meal of barbecued swordfish. Drinks from the bar were also pretty reasonably priced, and the vibe stayed fun and relaxed throughout the day. The crew was really friendly and took great care of us, and they adjusted our route according to the weather to ensure that we got the most out of our day.

You go to Malta for sun, sea, and snorkeling, so what better way to enjoy the island than stretched out on a comfortable catamaran with the sun on your face and a drink in hand? And don’t just take our word for it because you can read over a thousand glowing reviews here!

Book this popular catamaran tour here with FREE cancellation!

6. Get your adrenaline pumping on an ATV tour of Gozo

• Duration: 10 hours 
• Time: 8 am–4 pm
• Highlights: Exploring Gozo’s scenic landscapes and cultural sites, seeing the Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs, Dwejra Bay, and Għasri Valley, powerboat ride, traditional Gozitan lunch
• Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, private powerboat transfer to Gozo, quad bike, helmet and hairnet, three-course lunch, experienced tour guide
• Rating: 4.7 stars (check 600+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Gozo is a small island just off the coast of Malta. It’s absolutely beautiful, and the best way to experience its rugged landscapes and unique history is on this full-day quad bike tour!

You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Malta at around 8 am, and then you’ll take a powerboat ride to Gozo. This was super scenic and actually one of my favorite parts of the day! Then, when we arrived, we got a quick safety briefing before hopping on our ATVs and heading out to explore Gozo’s wild countryside and scenic coastal trails.

Riding through Gozo’s rugged countryside and coastal trails was incredible. We stopped at stunning spots like the Xwejni Salt Pans, where we got to see the centuries-old salt harvesting tradition in action, and the Inland Sea, which is a beautiful lagoon surrounded by cliffs.

Personally, my favorite part of the day was visiting Dwejra Bay to take in its dramatic coastline and go swimming in its crystal clear waters. 

Later, we drove past Ramla Bay, known for its unique red sand, and stopped for a delicious three-course lunch in the charming village of Xewkija. Then on the way back to Malta, we got to visit the famous Blue Lagoons and Comino’s sea caves.

This tour is such an immersive way to see the unique island of Gozo, and we loved getting off the tourist track to see a more peaceful side of the island. Book it now before it sells out!

Check availability and secure your spot on this epic ATV tour here!

Related Read: If you’d like the perfect getaway to Malta all planned for you, check out our 5-day Malta itinerary!

7. See Malta at your own pace with a self-drive electric car tour

• Duration: 2.5 hours 
• Time: Flexible start times from 9:30 am onwards
• Highlights: Self-drive electric car tour through Malta’s historic Three Cities, Kalkara, and Smart City, stops at Fort St. Angelo, Fort Rinella, and Fort Ricasoli, scenic views
• Inclusions: Use of electric car, commentary from pre-programmed GPS, audio commentary 
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check 800+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

We had so much fun exploring Malta on this self-drive electric car tour! Usually, you have to hire a car for at least an entire day, but this tour lets you save money by hiring one for just a few hours, and it even comes with a pre-programmed GPS so you don’t have to figure out a route to follow either. You get the thrill of independent exploration, but it’s a total breeze.

Our car was small, easy to handle, and fully electric, making it a fun and eco-friendly way to see the sights. We loved the built-in audio guide, because it meant we got to hear stories about Malta’s rich history as we drove around. It felt like having a personal tour guide right there in the car!

We got to see some incredible spots! We passed Fort St. Angelo, one of the most scenic forts in the entire Mediterranean, and Fort Rinella, which is famous for housing the world’s largest cannon! We also cruised past the impressive Fort Ricasoli and Birgu, a medieval village with charming streets and beautiful architecture.

What we loved most about this tour was that it showed us a side of Malta that most tourists miss, including local neighborhoods and quieter coastal views. If you want a relaxing, flexible way to explore Malta while learning lots along the way, we highly recommend this tour!

Read the glowing reviews and book this self-guided Malta tour here!

8. Kayak from Gozo to Camino Island 

Duration: 3 hours
Time: 10 am or 2:30 pm
Highlights: Kayak adventure around Gozo and Comino, exploring sea caves, hidden coves, crystal-clear waters, snorkeling stops, stunning coastal scenery
Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, kayak rental, life jackets, helmets, snorkeling gear, experienced guide, refreshments
Rating: 5 stars (check 300+ reviews here)
Free cancellation: Yes
Price: Check prices here!

We love being active, so we never pass up the chance to go kayaking, and this tour proved to be an amazing way to discover Malta’s hidden coves and sea coves. We had an absolute blast exploring the island’s bright blue seas with our friendly guides, and the kayaks were sturdy and well-maintained, so we felt super safe.

We started at Hondoq Bay, where we went through a quick safety briefing, and then we took off along the coast of Gozo before we crossed the channel to Comino. From there, we explored sea caves that you can only access by kayak, paddled through narrow natural tunnels, and even glided beneath an archway carved out by centuries of waves. It was incredible!

At one point, we even pulled into a quiet cove to snorkel and swim, away from the crowds at the Blue Lagoon. The water was super clear, and we saw loads of fish darting around the rocks.

Our guide, Andrew, was hilarious, full of fun pirate stories, and took some epic photos for us, which we were able to download for free after the tour. 

We’ve kayaked before, but this tour is very beginner-friendly, so don’t worry if you don’t have any experience. It allowed us to explore Comino in a way that most tourists never will, and see sights that you just can’t access by car or on foot. If you’re into nature and looking to get away from the crowds, make sure to book this tour!

Check availability and book this top-rated kayak tour here!

9. Cruise around Valletta on a Segway

• Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Time: 10:30 am, 12:30 pm
• Highlights: Get the perfect introduction to Valletta on a Segway as you see the city’s top sights, learn its history, and get recommendations from a local guide  
• Inclusions: English-speaking guide, Segway training, helmet
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check 340+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

If you’re looking for a fun and easy way to get your bearings in Valletta, this Segway tour is the perfect place to start! We loved how effortless it was to glide through the charming streets and see the highlights of Malta’s capital without breaking a sweat. It’s a short tour that fits perfectly into any itinerary, leaving you plenty of time to explore more on your own.

One of our favorite stops was the Upper Barrakka Gardens, where we enjoyed the panoramic views over the Grand Harbour, a must-see when visiting Valletta! There was also the fascinating Pjazza Teatru Rjal theatre, which was bombed during WWII and then partially rebuilt from the ruins by a famed Italian architect.

What really made this tour special was our guide. Not only was he super friendly and knowledgeable, but he also gave us fantastic recommendations on where to eat and what to see during the rest of our stay. That local insight made our entire trip even better!

We think this Segway tour is a fantastic introduction to Valletta, whether it’s your first time in the city or you’re just short on time. It’s fun, easy for any traveler, and a great way to kick off your Maltese adventure!

Check availability and book this Segway tour here!

10. Go Parasailing in St Julians

Floating 152 meters (500 feet) above Malta’s bright blue coastline was hands down one of the coolest things we did during our trip! We booked this parasailing experience in St. Julian’s, and it was everything we hoped for. 

The crew was super professional but also really friendly, which helped ease any nerves we had before takeoff. After a short boat ride out into the bay, we got strapped into our harnesses and took off right from the back of the boat. Seconds later, we were gliding high above the water and enjoying jaw-dropping views of Valletta, Sliema, and the entire St. Julian’s coastline. It felt like a dream!

The sea below looked like glass, and the feeling of total calm up there is hard to describe unless you’ve done it. The crew took photos and videos of the whole thing, so we didn’t have to worry about bringing our own cameras or dropping them in midair! 

Even though the actual flight was about 12 minutes long, we spent about an hour on the boat in total, so after we took our turn, we got to relax and soak in the views from the water.

Seriously, whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a group, this is a must-do activity in Malta. It’s exciting but still easy and safe, and it’s the perfect way to add a little adrenaline to your holiday.

Read five-star reviews and book your parasailing flight here!

Where to Stay in Malta 

Now that you’ve got a feel for all the best things to do in Malta, it’s time to figure out where to base yourself. In our opinion, Valletta is the best area to stay in because Malta’s capital is an UNESCO World Heritage site that’s packed with history, charm, and scenic beauty. 

We also love Valletta because it’s very walkable and puts you right in the heart of the action. Many of the tours we’ve mentioned offer free pickup from Valletta, which makes planning activities a breeze! So to help you plan your trip, we’ve rounded up some of the best hotel options in Valletta for every budget. 

Luxury – $$$ 

The Phoenicia Malta is a luxurious five-star hotel located just outside the gates of Valletta, offering stunning views over the Grand Harbour, historic city walls, and its own 7 acres of private gardens. Yes, really! 

This iconic hotel combines timeless elegance with top-tier service. The rooms are beautifully designed with Mediterranean tiles and lots of natural light, but our favorite part of the hotel is the infinity pool, which is set against the ancient bastion walls and overlooks the harbor below. I also love the Himalayan salt sauna!

Standard double rooms here cost between €400 and €650 per night. View prices and book your stay here!

Mid-range – $$ 

The Gomerino Hotel is a beautiful 4-star property in the heart of Valletta, just a short walk from popular sights like the Upper Barrakka Gardens and Valletta Waterfront. The rooftop pool is a definite highlight of this place, as it offers panoramic views of the city and harbour, but there’s a sumptuous heated indoor pool, too. 

The rooms here are gorgeous, with a classical, elegant feel and private balconies. We also love the stylish on-site bar, which has a great selection of drinks, and a delicious breakfast buffet is included every morning.  Double rooms here cost between €345 and €415 per night during peak season. Check availability and reserve your stay on Booking.com!

Budget – $

Casa Asti is a charming boutique inn tucked away in the heart of Valletta, just a short stroll from Upper Barrakka Gardens and the Valletta Waterfront. What makes this spot truly special is its old-world charm. The property’s original stone walls and traditional Maltese architecture really make it feel like you’re stepping back in time! 

The rooms here are quite compact, but thanks to the stone walls and chandeliers, they still feel glamorous. On-site, there’s a cozy Mediterranean restaurant serving brunch, lunch, and even high tea, along with a bar where you can unwind after a day exploring the city. 

Double rooms here cost around €175 per night, which we think is excellent value for money. See available rooms and book your stay here!

You can check out all of the listed hotels in Malta here!

Renting a Car in Europe

Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.

We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Europe

• Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
• Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
• Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
• Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
• Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
• Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

Malta is a treasure trove of history, sunshine, and those crystal-clear blue waters that we can’t stop dreaming about. We hope this guide has given you some fresh ideas for your trip, from lazy days sailing around the lagoons to diving deep into ancient history. Malta has a way of capturing your heart, and we know you’ll love every moment of it just like we did.

Planning to do more traveling? Check out all our Europe travel guides here! Each one is packed with our personal experiences, practical tips, and the best tours to book—so you can hit the ground running on your next adventure. Or read a few of our most popular blogs below for even more inspiration!

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