Valletta is the smallest capital in Europe but boasts the richest history. Take a stroll around the city to discover the stunning baroque architecture and visit St. John's Co-Cathedral. Do not forget to marvel at the panoramic views of the Grand Harbor from the Upper Barrakka Gardens.
Start your day by exploring the medieval walled city of Mdina, also called the "Silent City." See the impressive architecture of St.Paul's Cathedral, the noblemen's palaces, and enjoy breathtaking views across the island. After a break for lunch, head to St. Paul's Catacombs to discover the early Christian underground burial sites.
Take a ferry to the sister island of Gozo where you can marvel at the stunning coastal landscapes and traditional villages. Visit the Citadel of Victoria and the Ggantija Temples, one of the oldest free-standing structures in the world. Do not miss the iconic Azure Window, a natural arch that was a favorite of film-makers before it collapsed in 2017.
Explore the Three Cities, known as Cospicua, Senglea, and Vittoriosa, and discover the magnificent forts, churches, and palaces. Walk along the Vittoriosa Waterfront and learn about the fascinating maritime history of Malta, which dates back 7000 years.
Visit the charming fishing village of Marsaxlokk, famous for its colorful Luzzu boats and lively Sunday morning market. After lunch, head to the Blue Grotto, a natural cave system on the southern coast of Malta with crystal clear blue waters. You can take a boat tour to explore the caves and the nearby coastline.
Visit Mellieha Bay, one of the largest beaches on the island, and enjoy the clear waters and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Afterward, visit Popeye Village, the original film set of the 1980 musical "Popeye" starring Robin Williams. There, enjoy live shows, explore the movie sets, and relax in the beautiful surroundings.
Malta has a reliable and efficient public transportation system, including buses and ferries, that can take you to most places on the islands. To save money, purchase a Tallinja Card (€21) that gives unlimited travel around Malta for seven days. Taxis and rental cars are also an option, but they are relatively expensive.
Travel time between locations varies depending on traffic and distance. Plan ahead and use GPS or a map to make sure you get to the right location.
If you have more time, consider exploring the beautiful Dingli Cliffs or taking a boat tour to the Blue Lagoon on the tiny island of Comino. If you have less time, prioritize the top attractions on this itinerary and adjust accordingly. Keep in mind that opening hours and admission fees can change, so double-check before your visit.
Malta International Airport (MLA) is the only airport on the island and is located 8 km southeast of Valletta. Buses and taxis are available to take you to your destination from the airport. Approximate travel time by taxi from the airport to Valletta is 20 minutes, and the estimated cost is around €20-€25.