Top Things to Do in Malta: A Traveler’s Guide

I’ll be honest with you – Malta totally surprised me. For such a small country, it feels massive when it comes to history and beauty. One moment you’re standing inside temples older than the pyramids, the next you’re sipping coffee in a sunlit street in Valletta or watching the sunset by the sea. On my trip, I stumbled on so many places worth sharing, so here’s my take on the top things to do in Malta, with photos from my journey along the way.

1. Explore Valletta’s Historic Streets

Walking through Valletta feels like stepping into an open-air museum. The city’s limestone buildings and colorful wooden balconies are iconic. In addition to Valletta being Malta’s capital, it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled to the brim with charm and history.

2. Visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral

Step inside and you’re immediately surrounded by breathtaking Baroque detail. The atmosphere inside feels both grand and intimate at the same time. Among the treasures here are masterpieces by Caravaggio, including his dramatic work The Beheading of St. John the Baptist. This painting is so powerful it almost stops you in your tracks.

3. Relax at Balluta Bay, St. Julian’s

Balluta Bay is a favorite for both locals and tourists. The promenade is lively with cafes and restaurants, and the bay itself is perfect for a relaxing swim or evening stroll.

4. Shop and Dine at Bay Street, St. Julian’s

If you love shopping or nightlife, Bay Street is the place to be. From international brands to local eateries, this complex in St. Julian’s is where modern Malta comes alive.

5. Marvel at Malta’s Rugged Coastline

Malta’s coastline is full of dramatic rock formations and sea arches carved out by centuries of waves and wind. Standing on the cliffs and looking out across the endless Mediterranean is one of those moments where you feel the raw beauty of the island. It’s a completely different side of Malta compared to the busy city streets or sandy bays.

6. Take in the Views of the Grand Harbour

Few views can rival the Grand Harbour. Whether you see it from Valletta or from a boat, this harbor has been central to Malta’s history and is still bustling with yachts and ferries today.

7. Discover the Ħaġar Qim Temples

Older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids, the Ħaġar Qim temples are one of Malta’s greatest archaeological treasures. Covered with a protective canopy, they give a fascinating look into prehistoric life.

8. Watch the Sunset in a Seaside Village

Malta’s fishing villages are picture-perfect. Watching the sun set over the pastel-colored houses by the bay is pure magic.

9. Climb the Fortified Walls of Mdina

Known as the “Silent City”, Mdina is perched high with views stretching across Malta. Walking its narrow alleys feels like a trip back to medieval times.

10. Take a Harbour Cruise from Sliema

One of the best ways to see Malta is from the water. From Sliema Ferries, you can catch boat trips to Gozo, Comino, and the famous Blue Lagoon. The ride itself offers stunning views of Valletta’s skyline.

11. Visit the Triton Fountain in Valletta

Located just outside Valletta’s city gates, the Triton Fountain is one of Malta’s most recognizable landmarks. It’s a great starting point for exploring the city and a popular photo spot, especially at sunset when it’s beautifully lit.

12. Reflect at the Daphne Caruana Galizia Monument

This monument honors journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, who was tragically assassinated in 2017. It has since become a symbol of justice and press freedom in Malta, located in Valletta near the courts.

13. Explore Valletta’s Museums

Valletta is packed with museums that bring Malta’s rich history to life. You can explore the National Museum of Archaeology, which houses artifacts dating back to Malta’s prehistoric temples, or step into the War Museum at Fort St. Elmo to learn about the island’s role in World War II and beyond. Each museum adds another layer to understanding Malta’s fascinating past.

14. Stroll Down Republic Street

Republic Street is the heartbeat of Valletta. Cafes, shops, and street performers make it a lively spot for people-watching and photography. Walking here lets you soak up the everyday rhythm of Malta’s capital.

15. Ride the Valletta Trackless Train

One of the most family-friendly and fun ways to explore Valletta is by hopping aboard the Trackless Train. This charming ride loops around the city and passes by many of its most iconic landmarks, giving you a comfortable way to see a lot in a short amount of time.

The train is especially great if you’re traveling with kids or want to avoid too much walking under the Mediterranean sun. From the bright orange seats to the open views of Valletta’s streets, the whole experience feels lighthearted and relaxed.

Along the way, you’ll pass historic churches, city gates, gardens, and squares, all while enjoying commentary that helps bring Valletta’s history to life. The route map shows just how much ground you can cover in under 30 minutes. It’s fun and gives you a solid overview of the city before diving deeper on foot.

Whether it’s your first time in Valletta or you’re returning for another visit, the trackless train is a simple but memorable way to appreciate the capital’s beauty at a leisurely pace.

You can catch the train just outside St. John’s Co-Cathedral, with tickets at €6 for adults and €4 for children.