Malta
Things to do in Malta: 15 experiences from Valletta to Comino
A cannon fired at noon, a Caravaggio in a knights' church and a rock pool where locals leap into the sea. These are the experiences we would put first in Malta.
A small country with a long list
It is nearly noon in the Upper Barrakka Gardens, and people line up along the railings. Below them, on the terrace above the harbour, soldiers in period uniform prepare a cannon. The bang rolls out across the Grand Harbour and the pigeons scatter. Valletta has marked midday this way for centuries.
Malta is only 27 kilometres long, but it packs in more history per square kilometre than almost any country in Europe. These are the experiences we would put first. For an overview of the country, see our Malta travel guide.
Valletta and the harbour
1. St John's Co-Cathedral
Plain on the outside, one of the most lavish churches in Europe inside. It holds Caravaggio's The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist, the only painting he ever signed.
2. The noon gun at the Upper Barrakka Gardens
The Saluting Battery fires at 12 noon and 4pm every day. Arrive ten minutes early for a place at the railings.
3. A boat to the Three Cities
A small dghajsa, the traditional water taxi, takes you across the harbour to Birgu, Senglea and Cospicua in a few minutes. The streets here are quieter than in Valletta.
4. Enclosed balconies and narrow lanes
Wander Valletta without a plan, ideally early in the morning. The whole city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Inland
5. Mdina in the evening
The old walled capital is known as the Silent City. Come once the day-trippers have left and walk the streets by lamplight.
6. The catacombs in Rabat
Just outside Mdina lie St Paul's Catacombs, underground burial chambers from Roman times.
7. The Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum
An underground burial complex cut into the rock more than 5,000 years ago. Only a few small groups are allowed in each day, so book weeks ahead.
8. The Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra temples
Two temple complexes on the south coast overlooking the sea, among the oldest free-standing structures in the world.
The Blue Lagoon, Comino
Photo: Sergey Konstantinov / Unsplash
Sea and coast
9. The Blue Lagoon on Comino
Turquoise water in a channel between Comino and a tiny islet. In summer it fills with boats by midday. Take the first boat from Ċirkewwa or Sliema, or go in May or October.
10. The Blue Grotto
Small boats leave Wied iż-Żurrieq for the sea caves on the south coast. In the morning the water glows blue inside.
11. Swim at St Peter's Pool
A natural rock pool near Marsaxlokk where locals jump from the cliffs. No sand, but crystal-clear water.
12. The Marsaxlokk fish market
On Sunday mornings the harbour fills with stalls, and the colourful luzzu boats bob side by side. Have a fish lunch at one of the restaurants on the quay.
13. Golden Bay and Għajn Tuffieħa
Malta's best sandy beaches are in the north-west of the island. See more in the best beaches in Malta.
Beyond the main island
14. A day or two on Gozo
The ferry from Ċirkewwa takes around 25 minutes. Read more in our guide to Gozo.
15. Diving
Malta and Gozo have clear water, wrecks and caves. Many dive centres offer try dives for beginners.
Good to know
Buses cover the whole island but are slow at rush hour. The ferry between Sliema and Valletta is quicker than the bus.
Malta drives on the left.
In summer the villages hold their festa, feasts for their patron saint with fireworks and processions.
For where to base yourself, read where to stay in Malta.
Frequently asked questions about things to do in Malta
What should you not miss in Malta?
Valletta with St John's Co-Cathedral, Mdina, the temples on the south coast, the Blue Lagoon on Comino and the fish market in Marsaxlokk. If you have time, take the ferry to Gozo too.
How many days do you need in Malta?
Three days cover Valletta, Mdina and a boat trip. To also see Gozo, Comino and the temples, allow a week.
What is there to do in Malta in winter?
Winter is good for exploring Valletta and Mdina, the temples, the museums and the coastal paths. It is mild, but too cool to swim for most people.
Do you need to book the Hypogeum in advance?
Yes. Only a few small groups are allowed in each day, and tickets often sell out weeks ahead.