Planning a trip to Malta? Here’s my Malta Travel Itinerary which covers everything from stunning historical sites to charming local spots.
I’ll guide you through the best way to spend each day on this beautiful Mediterranean island. Let’s get started!
Malta Travel Itinerary
Here’s a sneak peek at what to expect on your Malta Travel Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrival and Explore Valletta
- Day 2: Discover the Three Cities and Mdina
- Day 3: Explore the Blue Grotto and Marsaxlokk
- Day 4: Gozo Island Day Trip
- Day 5: Beach Day at Golden Bay and Visit Popeye Village
- Day 6: Explore Rabat and Mosta
- Day 7: Relax at Mellieħa Bay and Visit the Red Tower
Day 1: Arrival and Explore Valletta
- Morning: Arrive in Valletta and check into your accommodation. I recommend staying in or near Valletta for convenience. After settling in, head out to explore Upper Barrakka Gardens. This beautiful spot offers panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and is free to enter. Don’t forget your camera!
- Lunch: Stop by Nenu the Artisan Baker for an authentic Maltese lunch. You have to try their ftira, a traditional Maltese flatbread. It costs around $10.
- Afternoon: Walk through the city’s historic streets and visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral. The interior is breathtaking, and the entry fee is $15. Explore the National War Museum at Fort St. Elmo afterward, where you can learn about Malta’s role in both World Wars.
- Evening: Have dinner at Legligin Wine Bar for a cozy, local experience. The food is fantastic, and a meal will cost you about $20-$30 per person.
| Day 1 | Details |
|---|---|
| Destination | Valletta, Malta |
| Accommodation | Central Valletta Hotel ($100/night) |
| Activities | Upper Barrakka Gardens (free), St. John’s Co-Cathedral ($15), National War Museum $10) |
| Transport | Walk around Valletta |
| Notes | Bring a camera for views at Upper Barrakka Gardens |
Day 2: Discover the Three Cities and Mdina
- Morning: Start your day early and take a short ferry ride ($2) across the Grand Harbour to the Three Cities—Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua. These cities are rich in history and often less crowded. Wander around and stop by the Inquisitor’s Palace (entry $6).
- Lunch: Have lunch in Birgu at Cafe Du Brazil, where a meal costs around $12.
- Afternoon: After lunch, take a bus to Mdina, Malta’s old capital. Known as the “Silent City,” it’s a beautiful, quiet place to explore. Visit St. Paul’s Cathedral (entry $5) and stroll through the medieval streets.
- Evening: After exploring, dine at Fontanella Tea Garden, known for its delicious cakes and breathtaking views. Expect to pay around $20 for dinner.
| Day 2 | Details |
|---|---|
| Destination | Three Cities, Mdina |
| Accommodation | Same as Day 1 |
| Activities | Inquisitor’s Palace ($6), Mdina (free), St. Paul’s Cathedral ($5) |
| Transport | Ferry, bus to Mdina |
| Notes | Don’t miss the sunset at Mdina |
Day 3: Explore the Blue Grotto and Marsaxlokk
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Blue Grotto. You can take a boat tour here for about $8 per person. The views of the caves and the crystal-clear water are absolutely stunning!
- Lunch: Head over to the charming fishing village of Marsaxlokk. Enjoy lunch at one of the seafront restaurants; a fresh fish dish will cost around $15-$20.
- Afternoon: After lunch, explore Marsaxlokk’s colorful market stalls and relax by the harbor. Don’t forget to grab a souvenir or two!
- Evening: Return to Valletta for dinner at Rampila, a lovely spot located within Valletta’s historic city walls. Dinner will cost around $25-$30.
| Day 3 | Details |
|---|---|
| Destination | Blue Grotto, Marsaxlokk |
| Accommodation | Same as Day 1 |
| Activities | Blue Grotto boat tour ($8), Marsaxlokk market (free) |
| Transport | Bus or taxi |
| Notes | Bring sunscreen for a day out by the water |
Day 4: Gozo Island Day Trip
- Morning: Catch the ferry to Gozo Island ($4.65 for a round trip). Once there, explore Victoria, the island’s capital. Don’t miss The Citadel for incredible views.
- Lunch: Have lunch in Victoria at Ta’ Rikardu. Try their cheese platter and traditional Maltese dishes; lunch will cost about $15-€20.
- Afternoon: Take a bus or taxi to Dwejra Bay and see the Inland Sea and Fungus Rock, two of Gozo’s natural wonders. These spots are perfect for photo ops!
- Evening: Head back to Valletta by ferry and have dinner at Trabuxu Bistro, where dinner costs around $30.
| Day 4 | Details |
|---|---|
| Destination | Gozo Island |
| Accommodation | Same as Day 1 |
| Activities | Ferry to Gozo (€$.65), The Citadel (free), Dwejra Bay (free) |
| Transport | Ferry, bus/taxi on Gozo |
| Notes | Bring a hat and sunglasses for the day trip |
Day 5: Beach Day at Golden Bay and Visit Popeye Village
- Morning: Spend your morning unwinding at Golden Bay, one of Malta’s best beaches. Enjoy swimming and sunbathing while soaking in the sun.
- Lunch: Grab a quick bite at one of the beach bars, with lunch costing about $10-$15.
- Afternoon: If you’re feeling adventurous, visit Popeye Village ($15 entry), the film set from the 1980 movie “Popeye,” now turned into a fun park for visitors.
- Evening: After a fun-filled day, enjoy a relaxed dinner at The Chophouse in Sliema. Dinner here will set you back around $30-$40.
| Day 5 | Details |
|---|---|
| Destination | Golden Bay, Popeye Village |
| Accommodation | Same as Day 1 |
| Activities | Golden Bay beach (free), Popeye Village ($15) |
| Transport | Bus or taxi |
| Notes | Pack snacks and drinks for the beach day |
Day 6: Explore Rabat and Mosta
- Morning: Start your day in Rabat by visiting the St. Paul’s Catacombs ($6 entry). These ancient burial sites are fascinating and offer a glimpse into Malta’s history.
- Lunch: Head over to a local café in Rabat for lunch, where a meal will cost around $10-$15.
- Afternoon: Visit Mosta and check out the Mosta Dome, one of the largest domes in Europe. Entry is free, and you can appreciate the beautiful architecture.
- Evening: Return to Valletta for dinner at Palazzo Preca. This restaurant is known for its delicious Maltese cuisine, and you can expect to pay around $30 for dinner.
| Day 6 | Details |
|---|---|
| Destination | Rabat, Mosta |
| Accommodation | Same as Day 1 |
| Activities | St. Paul’s Catacombs ($6), Mosta Dome (free) |
| Transport | Bus or taxi |
| Notes | Wear comfortable shoes for walking |
Day 7: Relax at Mellieħa Bay and Visit the Red Tower
- Morning: Spend your final day at Mellieħa Bay, another beautiful beach known for its soft sand and clear water. It’s the perfect spot for some last-minute sun and relaxation.
- Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a nearby beachside restaurant; meals here cost around $15-$20.
- Afternoon: After lunch, visit the Red Tower (entry $3) for stunning views over the coast and the surrounding countryside.
- Evening: Have a farewell dinner at Munchies Beach Bar, enjoying a casual atmosphere and tasty dishes. Dinner will be around $20-$25.
| Day 7 | Details |
|---|---|
| Destination | Mellieħa Bay, Red Tower |
| Accommodation | Same as Day 1 |
| Activities | Mellieħa Bay (free), Red Tower ($3) |
| Transport | Bus or taxi |
| Notes | Don’t forget your swimsuit! |
Estimated Budget Overview
Here’s an Estimated Budget Overview for your Malta Travel Itinerary for 7 days. This budget includes accommodation, meals, activities, and transportation, giving you a comprehensive idea of what to expect.
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (7 nights) | $350 – $700 |
| Meals (3 meals/day) | $210 – $300 (approx. $30 – $40 per day) |
| Activities & Entrance Fees | $120 – $200 |
| Transportation (public transport/taxis) | $50 – $100 |
| Miscellaneous (souvenirs, snacks) | $50 – $100 |
| Total Estimated Budget | $880 – $1,500 |
How many days in Malta are enough?
I believe 5 to 7 days is an ideal timeframe to truly experience Malta. With this duration, you can explore the vibrant capital of Valletta, visit historic sites like Mdina, relax on beautiful beaches, and take day trips to Gozo and Comino.
This time allows you to soak in the culture, history, and stunning landscapes without feeling rushed.
Is 5 days enough for Malta?
Yes, 5 days can be enough to cover the main highlights. You can visit key attractions such as the ancient city of Mdina, the Blue Grotto, and the Three Cities. While it might be a bit fast-paced, you can certainly enjoy a good mix of sightseeing and leisure time.
If you find something particularly captivating, you might wish you had a little more time to explore, but 5 days will give you a solid overview of the island.
Conclusion
Malta is a hidden gem in the Mediterranean, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
Whether you’re wandering through the ancient streets of Valletta, relaxing on the stunning beaches, or exploring the enchanting islands of Gozo and Comino, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories.
With a well-planned Malta Travel Itinerary, you can experience all that this beautiful destination has to offer in just 5 to 7 days.