Top 18 Must-Visit Attractions in Malta

Perched in the middle of the Mediterranean, the country of Malta is a stunning little archipelago that sits just south of Sicily and just shy of Tunisia to the north. It’s one stunning country to explore, with a whole heap of the best places in Malta that are dotted all across the islands.

Honestly, this nation of islands is one gorgeous place you should visit, especially for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, stunning fishing villages, and natural spots to boot.

Obviously, spending only a day or two in Malta just isn’t enough to cover all the best places to visit; you’ll be spoilt for choice in spots to explore. For me, I’d definitely recommend 5-7 days; this way, you’ll get a good chance to traverse most of the islands of Malta and Gozo.

On my last trip to Malta, I spent 5 nights on the main island and a full day marveling at the beauty of Gozo, the nearby island that is easily reached by boat.

With that in mind, consider some of the best places in Malta that you should definitely see. Have the best trip!

1.) Dive to see the fallen Azure Window, Gozo

Sadly, one of Gozo’s most famous natural sites, the Azure Window, collapsed recently after a storm, causing the huge arch that I visited to drop into the sea.

It’s disheartening to see this beautiful spot disappear, but, you know what, that’s nature! It’s a constantly moving cycle of sequences we should embrace and respect.

If you’re an avid diver, now is a prime opportunity to visit the magnificent underwater landscape that formed where the Azure window was. It’s one of the best spots in Malta for diving.

Make sure to join an organized dive and heed local advice; this underwater environment is new and still evolving. No one appreciates a reckless diver.

2.) St Joseph’s Church, Msida, Malta

Not too far from the center of Valletta, St Joseph’s Church is a stunning Roman Catholic church located in the small harbor town of Msida.

If you’re visiting in July, ensure to align your visit with the town’s feast of St. Joseph, which is one of the best experiences in Malta during the celebration.

3.) Popeye Village, Malta

It’s difficult to visit Malta without seeing the original Popeye Village. You may feel differently, but it’s a quirky and somewhat tacky little village that was constructed for the Popeye film and has remained on the island ever since.

And, honestly, I loved it!

I doubt anyone under 15 even knows who Popeye is now! Still, if you do and you enjoy your spinach, this is among the best places to visit in Malta.

4.) Hike across Malta or Gozo

This may sound more strenuous than it actually is. Near Popeye Village is the Għadira Natural Reserve, where the island of Malta actually narrows to about 500 meters in width. You can traverse from one side of the island to the other in a mere 30 minutes.

For serious hikers, the Girgenti Walk is beautiful and passes numerous historical sites. It’s indeed one of the best places in Malta for a scenic hike.

5.) See Ta’ Pinu Basilica, Gozo

Located a pleasant 35-minute walk from Għarb on Gozo, Ta’ Pinu Basilica is an absolutely picturesque site that deserves a visit.

It’s not hard to find on Gozo, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best locations to check out while on the island.

6.) The Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Valletta

Probably the most iconic basilica in the country, the Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel is one of the best places in Malta to explore.

It’s an ideal place to visit on your day in the capital. Don’t forget to look out for the painting of Our Lady of Mount Carmel that’s housed inside as well.

7.) See the sunset at Senglea harbour, Malta

The natural harbor of Valletta is simply unmissable, particularly if you’re planning to explore the capital city.

Be sure to visit the Senglea Harbor area around sunset, when the sun casts a beautiful orange glow over the cobbled buildings.

8.) Visit the Upper & Lower Barrakka Gardens, Malta

The Upper Barrakka Gardens is one of the best places in Malta to enjoy the view across the grand natural harbor in this region.

As it is the highest point of the historic walls, you can gaze out over the harbor from an entirely new perspective.

The Lower Barrakka Gardens also feature a beautiful temple that resembles almost Roman architecture in its design.

9.) Visit the Blue Grotto, Malta

The Blue Grotto is located at the southern tip of Malta and can be easily reached by boat, or viewed from above (which is preferable if you tend to get seasick). It’s quite straightforward to arrange a boat trip from most hotels and Valletta itself.

Top tip: Make sure to visit before around midday to experience one of the best views in Malta.

10.) Go inside the Rotunda of Mosta, Malta

If you haven’t visited Rome, you should definitely check out the Rotunda of Mosta, as it was designed and modeled after the Pantheon itself.

Interestingly, this Rotunda is actually the third largest unsupported dome in the world, making it well worth seeing in person.

11.) Explore Valletta, Malta

The entire city of Valletta has been granted UNESCO World Heritage Status, and it’s easy to understand why.

After the midday heat subsides, take a leisurely stroll through the cobbled streets and wander around this architecturally stunning capital that looks as if it’s been pulled from a movie set.

If you’ve built up an appetite, make your way over to Adesso in the city. They serve one of the best pasta dishes on the island! I challenge you to find better. It truly is one of the best places in Malta.

12.) Find Ħaġar Qim, Malta

The megalithic temple of Ħaġar Qim is one of the oldest and most treasured historical sites in the country, dating back as far as 3,600 BC.

This site is over 5,000 years old! Be sure to visit the Northern Temple, the Women’s Temple, and the Main Temple itself.

Though it may not rival the panoramic vistas of Machu Picchu, its history far surpasses many other locations, making it a great UNESCO site to experience.

13.) Go inside Grandmaster’s Palace, Malta

As you wander through the streets of Valletta (especially if the weather takes a turn), make sure to explore the Grandmaster’s Palace.

This beautiful palace has been at the heart of Malta’s governance for over 300 years. What’s more, you can explore the State Apartments and discover the rich Islamic and Ottoman histories that reside here.

14.) Gardjola Gardens, Malta

Gardjola Gardens is another must-visit location that provides uninterrupted views across the Grand Harbour, making it one of the best places in Malta to explore.

Perched opposite the Upper Barrakka Gardens, be sure to keep an eye out for the sculpted eyes and ears carved onto the tower, which watch over the country.

15.) Hike the shores of Dingli Cliffs, Malta

As one of the highest points in Malta, the Dingli Cliffs are certainly worth the trek, especially around sunset.

You can easily spend hours walking along the shoreline. Remember to bring plenty of water, an adventurous spirit, and ample sunblock. Nobody enjoys a sunburnt nose.

16.) Explore Rabat and Mdina, Malta

With over 4,000 years of history, the quiet streets of Mdina and Rabat are perfect for a leisurely walk in one of the oldest settlements on the island.

This aspect of Malta is truly among the best places to discover the more tranquil side of island life.

17.) Swim in Blue Hole, Gozo

The Blue Hole is located right next to the fallen Azure Window in Gozo and is an excellent spot for a refreshing dip.

If you’re an enthusiastic diver, you might consider booking a tour to explore this incredible geological formation underwater.

It’s absolutely breathtaking both from above and below, so choose whichever suits your fancy.

18.) Go inside Fort Manoel, Malta

Constructed in the 1800s, Fort Manoel is among the best places in Malta to delve into the fortified history of the country.

Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, this historical site is best visited in the morning when the sun isn’t too scorching. Don’t forget to also visit the piazza and chapel located within the fort.