Comprehensive 17-Day Malta Itinerary: Explore History, Beaches, and Culture

Day 1: Arrival and Valletta Intro

Valletta, Malta on September 3, 2025

10:00am

Arrival and Hotel Check-in

Settle into your accommodation in Valletta, the capital city known for its rich history and stunning architecture.
CURRENCY0, 1h0m

11:30am

Breakfast at Caffe Cordina

Enjoy a traditional Maltese breakfast with pastries and coffee at this historic café located in St. George's Square. Open from 7:30am to 11:00pm.
EUR10, 1h0m

12:30pm

Upper Barrakka Gardens

Visit these beautiful gardens offering panoramic views of the Grand Harbour, perfect for photos and a relaxing stroll.
EUR0, 1h0m

2:00pm

St. John’s Co-Cathedral

Explore this magnificent baroque cathedral famous for Caravaggio's masterpiece. Open 9:30am-4:30pm.
EUR15, 1h30m

4:00pm

Valletta Waterfront Walk

Stroll along the waterfront filled with restored historic buildings, shops, and cafés to soak in Valletta's atmosphere.
EUR0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Nenu The Artisan Baker

Taste traditional Maltese dishes like Ftira in a charming setting, open from 6:00pm to 10:30pm.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 2: Valletta Museums and History

Valletta, Malta on September 4, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Piadina Caffe

Start your day with freshly made piadina sandwiches and espresso, open from 7:30am.
EUR8, 0h45m

9:30am

National Museum of Archaeology

Discover Malta's prehistoric artifacts and gain insight into the island's ancient civilization. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
EUR10, 1h30m

11:15am

Grandmaster's Palace

Explore the palace's magnificent state rooms and the Armoury, reflecting Malta's Knights Hospitaller history. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
EUR10, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Palazzo Preca

Delight in fresh seafood and authentic Maltese cuisine in a family-run restaurant, open 12:00pm-3:00pm.
EUR25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Fort St Elmo and National War Museum

Visit this historic fort and learn about Malta’s WWII history. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
EUR10, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax at Lower Barrakka Gardens

A peaceful green space next to the harbor with great views and sculptures. Free entry.
EUR0, 0h45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Rampila Restaurant

Enjoy beautiful ambiance and Mediterranean cuisine in a historical setting, open from 6:30pm to 10:30pm.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 3: Mdina and Rabat Tour

Mdina and Rabat, Malta on September 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Coffee Break, Mdina

Light breakfast with fresh pastries and coffee in the medieval city, open from 7:30am.
EUR7, 0h45m

9:00am

Mdina Old City Exploration

Walk through Malta's silent city to admire medieval architecture and great city views, open all day with free entry.
EUR0, 2h0m

11:30am

St Paul’s Cathedral

Visit the beautifully restored cathedral with remarkable art and history, open 9:00am-5:00pm.
EUR5, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Fontanella Tea Garden

Famous for cakes and scenic views near Mdina, open 10:00am-5:00pm.
EUR15, 1h0m

2:00pm

Rabat Catacombs

Explore the ancient Roman underground burial sites and early Christian history. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
EUR7, 1h30m

4:00pm

Dingli Cliffs Visit

Enjoy breathtaking sunset views from Malta’s highest point, a perfect way to relax before dinner.
EUR0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Medina Restaurant

Dine within Mdina's city walls featuring a great mix of Mediterranean dishes, open 6:30pm-10:30pm.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 4: Gozo Island Exploration

Gozo, Malta on September 6, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Have a quick buffet breakfast to prepare for the ferry trip to Gozo.
Included, 0h30m

8:30am

Ferry to Gozo

Take the ferry from Cirkewwa to Gozo, a scenic 25-minute ride.
EUR4, 0h30m

9:15am

Visit Ġgantija Temples

Explore one of the world's oldest megalithic temple complexes, open 9:00am-5:00pm.
EUR10, 1h30m

11:00am

Victoria Citadel

Explore this fortified city offering rich history and panoramic island views, open 9:00am-5:00pm.
EUR0, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Ta’ Frenc Restaurant

Enjoy fine dining with local Gozo specialties in Victoria, open 12:00pm-3:00pm.
EUR30, 1h0m

2:30pm

Dwejra Bay and Inland Sea

Visit the natural sea lagoon, excellent for boat tours to the Inland Sea cave, open all day.
EUR15, 1h30m

4:30pm

Ramla Bay Beach

Relax on Gozo’s famous red sandy beach, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
EUR0, 1h30m

6:30pm

Return Ferry to Malta

Take the evening ferry back to the main island of Malta.
EUR4, 0h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Ta' Kris, Sliema

Savor traditional Maltese dishes in a cozy eatery open till late, perfect after the day's travel.
EUR25, 1h30m
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Day 5: Sliema and St Julian's Leisure

Sliema and St Julian's, Malta on September 7, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Mint, Sliema

Healthy breakfast options and excellent coffee in a cozy café, open from 8:00am.
EUR10, 1h0m

10:30am

Sliema Promenade Walk

Take a scenic coastal walk along the promenade with stops at local shops and beaches.
EUR0, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Gusto Osteria

Enjoy Italian-Maltese fusion dishes with seaside views, open 12:00pm-3:00pm.
EUR25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Spinola Bay, St Julian’s

Famous for picturesque fishing boats and waterfront cafés, perfect for relaxation.
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3:30pm

St George’s Bay Beach

Enjoy some beach time at this popular sandy bay with clear waters, open all day.
EUR0, 2h0m

6:00pm

Optional Casino Visit or Sunset Drinks

Casino Malta or choose a beachfront bar for sunset cocktails to wind down your day.
EUR20, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at The Avenue Steakhouse

Indulge in premium steaks and elegant dining atmosphere, open till 11:00pm.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 6: Marsaxlokk & Blue Grotto

Marsaxlokk and Blue Grotto, Malta on September 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start early with a hearty hotel breakfast to prepare for a day of exploring southern Malta.
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9:00am

Marsaxlokk Fishing Village

Visit Malta’s traditional fishing village famous for colorful luzzu boats and fresh fish market, best in the morning. Market open Sundays, but village charm is all week.
EUR0, 1h30m

11:00am

Blue Grotto Boat Tour

Take a 30-min boat trip to explore the stunning sea caves with brilliant blue waters, tours operate 9:00am-5:00pm, check weather conditions.
EUR15, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Ta' Passi Restaurant

Enjoy seafood with views of the harbor in Marsaxlokk, open 12:00pm-3:00pm.
EUR25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples

Visit these UNESCO-listed megalithic temples nearby, open 9:00am-7:00pm in September.
EUR10, 1h30m

4:30pm

Relax at Pretty Bay Beach

Spend late afternoon along the sandy bay in Birzebbuga, peaceful and less crowded.
EUR0, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gululu Restaurant, Marsaxlokk

Savor Maltese specialities like Lampuki and fresh seafood in a traditional setting, open till 10:00pm.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 7: Beach and Nature Day

Mellieha and Golden Bay, Malta on September 9, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Café Del Mar, Mellieha

Relax with breakfast by the bay, offering good coffee and pastries, open 8:00am-12:00pm.
EUR12, 1h0m

9:30am

Mellieha Bay Beach

Spend your morning at Malta’s largest sandy beach with calm waters and facilities.
EUR0, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Commando Restaurant

Enjoy seaside dining and fresh fish dishes right on Mellieha beach, open 12:00pm-3:00pm.
EUR25, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Popeye Village

Explore the colorful film set & theme park of the famous Popeye movie, open 9:00am-6:00pm.
EUR15, 2h0m

4:00pm

Golden Bay Beach

Relax at one of Malta’s most scenic golden sand beaches, ideal for swimming and sunset views.
EUR0, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Zeri's Restaurant

Finish your day with Mediterranean cuisine in a serene setting near Golden Bay, open 7:00pm-10:30pm.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 8: Return to Valletta and Leisure

Valletta, Malta on September 10, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at The Exchange Coffee Shop

Casual place in Valletta to enjoy great coffee and a light breakfast, open 8:00am-6:00pm.
EUR8, 0h45m

10:00am

Shopping in Merchant Street

Visit landmark shops and boutiques in Malta’s commercial street for souvenirs and local crafts.
EUR0, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Trabuxu Bistro

Experience one of Valletta’s top bistros serving fresh Mediterranean fare, open 12:00pm-3:00pm.
EUR25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Teatru Manoel Visit

Tour the historic Manoel Theatre, one of Europe’s oldest working theatres, open 10:00am-6:00pm.
EUR10, 1h0m

3:30pm

Relax at Café Jubilee

Enjoy a sweet treat or coffee in a local favorite café, open late into the evening.
EUR10, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Rubino

Traditional Maltese dining with a cozy ambiance, open 6:30pm-10:30pm.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 9: Leisure and Local Culture

Valletta, Malta on September 11, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Busy Bee

Popular Maltese café known for hearty breakfasts, open from 7:00am.
EUR10, 1h0m

10:30am

Manoel Island Exploring

Walk or bike around this island near Sliema with great views and peaceful spots.
EUR0, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Ta’ Steffunu

Enjoy a casual lunch spot offering local sandwiches and treats, open till 4:00pm.
EUR15, 1h0m

2:30pm

National Library and Grand Master's Palace Gardens

Visit these cultural sites for art and history with peaceful gardens to relax in.
EUR10, 1h30m

4:30pm

Rest and Coffee break at Havana 808

Popular cocktail bar with day time coffee options and relaxed atmosphere.
EUR10, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Guze Bistro

A fine dining experience with traditional ingredients and innovative cooking, open 6:30pm-10:30pm.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 10: Mdina Day Trip Again

Mdina, Malta on September 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Jubilee

Start early with excellent coffees and Maltese pastries.
EUR10, 0h45m

9:00am

Walk Mdina Walls and Explore Narrow Streets

Enjoy quieter visit of Mdina’s medieval charm with less crowds.
EUR0, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum

Tour this well-preserved medieval townhouse showcasing art and antiques, open 9:00am-5:00pm.
EUR10, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Bacchus Restaurant

Located in Mdina, offering elegant dining with Mediterranean flavors, open 12:00pm-3:00pm.
EUR30, 1h0m

2:30pm

Rabat and St. Paul’s Grotto

Visit this important religious site and catacombs in Rabat, open 9:00am-5:00pm.
EUR5, 1h30m

4:00pm

Coffee Break at Fontanella Tea Garden

Enjoy amazing views and sweet cakes as you rest.
EUR10, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Medina Restaurant

Repeat favorite traditional dining in Mdina with a beautiful nighttime setting.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 11: Leisure Day in Valletta

Valletta, Malta on September 13, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Coffee Break Valletta

Start your day with great coffee and pastries in the heart of Valletta.
EUR8, 1h0m

10:30am

Explore Fort Rinella

Visit this well-preserved Victorian fort armed with huge artillery, open 9:00am-5:00pm.
EUR10, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Harbour Club

Enjoy great food with panoramic harbour views, open 12:00pm-3:00pm.
EUR35, 1h0m

2:30pm

Teatru Manoel’s Performance or Tour

If possible, attend an afternoon show or guided tour, bookings recommended.
EUR20, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Strait Street

Explore this lively street full of bars and live music venues for a casual evening.
EUR0, 2h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Palazzo Parisio

Experience an elegant dinner in a beautiful palace setting, open 7:00pm-10:30pm.
EUR50, 1h30m
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Day 12: South Coast and Nature

South Coast, Malta on September 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Begin with an early hotel breakfast to fuel your outdoor activities.
Included, 0h45m

9:00am

Walk at Għar Lapsi

A beautiful rocky cove popular with snorkelers and nature lovers, free entry.
EUR0, 1h30m

10:45am

Visit Blue Lagoon, Comino

Take a boat trip to the stunning blue waters of Comino, best time morning to early afternoon. Boats depart 10:00am-3:30pm.
EUR25, 3h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Comino's Kiosk

Simple snacks and drinks on Comino island while you relax.
EUR15, 1h0m

3:00pm

Return to Malta

Boat trip back, freshen up at your hotel after a day on the water.
EUR0, 0h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at De Mondion

Treat yourself to fine dining in Mdina with fantastic views, open 7:00pm-10:30pm.
EUR60, 1h30m
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Day 13: Leisure Day and Shopping

Sliema, Malta on September 15, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Mint

Healthy options and great coffees to start your day in Sliema.
EUR10, 1h0m

10:30am

Shopping at The Point Shopping Mall

Large shopping mall with international brands and local boutiques, open 10:00am-9:00pm.
EUR0, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Med Asia Playa

Enjoy a fusion of Asian and Mediterranean cuisine right by the sea, open 12:00pm-3:00pm.
EUR25, 1h0m

3:00pm

Relax at Sliema Ferries

People watch and have coffee or ice cream while enjoying seaside views.
EUR8, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ta’ Kris, Sliema

Authentic Maltese dining spot for a final local meal, open till late.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 14: Cultural Day

Valletta, Malta on September 16, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at The Grassy Hopper

Enjoy a refreshing and healthy breakfast near Valletta’s entrance.
EUR10, 1h0m

9:30am

Mediterranean Conference Centre Tour

Explore this historic building originally a hospital, now a conference hub with architectural delights, open 9:00am-5:00pm.
EUR8, 1h0m

11:00am

National Museum of Fine Arts

Discover Maltese art spanning centuries, open 9:00am-5:00pm.
EUR10, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Rampila

Dine with outdoor views in Valletta’s historical ramparts, open 12:00pm-3:00pm.
EUR35, 1h0m

2:30pm

Harbour Cruise

Take a 1.5-hour cruise around the Grand Harbour to see Valletta from the water.
EUR20, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax at Sir Hugo Restaurant

Sip cocktails or coffee with views over the harbor to unwind.
EUR15, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Under Grain

Michelin-starred restaurant with exquisite modern Maltese cuisine, reservations essential.
EUR80, 2h0m
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Day 15: Gozo Day Revisit or Leisure

Gozo, Malta on September 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Buffet breakfast to prepare for a second day on Gozo.
Included, 0h45m

8:30am

Ferry to Gozo

Early ferry trip to maximize daylight on the island.
EUR4, 0h30m

9:15am

Explore Ta’ Pinu Basilica

Visit this important pilgrimage site with stunning views, open all day.
EUR0, 1h0m

10:30am

Xlendi Bay Visit

Relax at this popular seaside village, with cafés and possible boat rentals.
EUR0, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Kramer Seafood Restaurant

Enjoy fresh catch of the day with sea views, open 12:00pm-3:00pm.
EUR30, 1h0m

2:30pm

Ramla Bay Beach Afternoon Relaxation

Second chance to enjoy Gozo’s most famous beach and crystal waters.
EUR0, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return Ferry to Malta

Travel back to Malta in the early evening.
EUR4, 0h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Palazzo Preca, Valletta

Enjoy a farewell dinner with refined Maltese and seafood dishes.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 16: Final Day in Valletta

Valletta, Malta on September 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Jubilee

Relax one last morning with Maltese coffee and baked goods.
EUR8, 0h45m

9:00am

Lascaris War Rooms

Explore underground WWII tunnels and command centers, open 9:00am-5:00pm.
EUR12, 1h30m

11:00am

Fortifications Walk

Walk along Valletta’s famous bastions and walls for stunning views.
EUR0, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Gululu

Enjoy local Maltese dishes in a welcoming environment, open till 3:00pm.
EUR25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Last-Minute Shopping and Souvenirs

Visit local shops in Valletta to purchase souvenirs and gifts.
EUR0, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at hotel and pack

Prepare for your departure the next day.
EUR0, 2h0m

7:30pm

Farewell Dinner at The Chophouse

Enjoy a fine dining steakhouse experience with views over the harbor.
EUR50, 2h0m
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Day 17: Departure

Valletta, Malta on September 19, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast before check-out and transfer to the airport.
Included, 0h30m

8:00am

Airport Transfer

Arrive at Malta International Airport in time for your departure flight.
EUR25, 1h0m
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