Ultimate 17-Day Malta Itinerary: History, Nature, and Coastal Comforts

Day 1: Arrival and Valletta

Valletta, Malta on September 3, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Cordina

Enjoy traditional Maltese breakfast pastries and local coffee to begin your exploration of Valletta.
EUR10, 1h

10:30am

Upper Barrakka Gardens

Take in unparalleled views of the Grand Harbour in the lush public gardens.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

St. John's Co-Cathedral Tour

Marvel at Caravaggio’s masterpieces and ornate baroque art inside, open till 4:30pm.
EUR15, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Nenu The Artisan Baker

Savor Maltese ftira in this traditional restaurant nestled in Valletta’s old town.
EUR20, 1h

3:00pm

Grandmaster’s Palace and Armoury

Delve into Malta’s grand history in this well-preserved palace, open until 5pm.
EUR10, 1h30m

5:00pm

Valletta Waterfront Walk

Relax by the sea among shops and cafés, perfect to unwind before dinner.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Rampila

Enjoy Mediterranean dishes in a unique historic fort setting for a memorable first night.
EUR35, 2h
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Day 2: Explore Three Cities

Birgu (Vittoriosa), Malta on September 4, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Fontanella Tea Garden, Mdina

Famous for its cakes and panoramic views in the silent city; opens at 8am.
EUR12, 1h

10:00am

Travel to Birgu

Cross via ferry to Birgu for an immersive day in the historic Three Cities.
EUR5, 30m

10:30am

Fort St. Angelo Exploration

Tour this iconic Knights’ fortress, open from 9am to 5pm.
EUR10, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at La Reggia

Indulge in fresh seafood with fantastic harbor views in Vittoriosa’s waterfront.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Inquisitor’s Palace Visit

Discover Malta’s religious past in this fascinating museum open until 5pm.
EUR6, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Birgu Old Town

Meander through quaint streets adorned with artisan shops and historic architecture.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Tal-Petut

Experience traditional Maltese flavors in this cozy restaurant within Birgu.
EUR30, 2h
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Day 3: Mdina & Rabat

Mdina & Rabat, Malta on September 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Fontanella Tea Garden

Morning treats and views inside Malta’s ancient capital, open at 8am.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Mdina Walking Tour

Visit medieval streets and St. Paul’s Cathedral, open from 9am to 5pm.
EUR5, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Bacchus Restaurant

Enjoy rooftop dining with scenic views in the heart of Mdina.
EUR28, 1h

1:30pm

St. Paul’s Catacombs, Rabat

Explore early Christian burial sites, open 9am-5pm and rich with history.
EUR10, 1h30m

3:30pm

Domus Romana

See Roman mosaics and ruins in Rabat, open until 5pm.
EUR6, 1h

5:00pm

Return to Valletta

Travel back to the city center for a relaxed evening.
EUR5, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Legligin Wine Bar

Sample exquisite local wines paired with small plates in Valletta’s intimate wine bar.
EUR25, 2h
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Day 4: Full-Day Gozo Tour

Gozo Island, Malta on September 6, 2025

7:00am

Grab Breakfast To-Go

Pick up fresh pastries and coffee at Valletta Market before catching the ferry.
EUR8, 30m

7:30am

Ferry to Gozo Island

Enjoy a scenic 25-minute ferry crossing from Cirkewwa to Mgarr.
EUR5, 30m

8:30am

Visit Ġgantija Temples

Discover some of the world's oldest freestanding structures, open 9am-5pm.
EUR10, 1h30m

10:30am

Victoria Citadel Walk

Explore Gozo’s fortified capital with panoramic views and history.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Ta’ Rikardu

Enjoy authentic Gozitan specialties in the heart of Victoria.
EUR20, 1h

1:30pm

Dwejra Bay & Inland Sea

Visit natural wonders and take in stunning sea scenery.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Relax at Ramla Bay

Swim or unwind on the island’s famous red sand beach.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Return Ferry to Malta

Evening ferry back to the Maltese main island.
EUR5, 30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Valletta Waterfront

Casual dining with a harbor view at Churchill’s Bar after a long day.
EUR25, 1h30m
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Day 5: Southern Coast & Marsaxlokk

Marsaxlokk / St. Peter’s Pool, Malta on September 7, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Café Jubilee

Start your day with a Maltese breakfast in Valletta, open from early morning.
EUR12, 1h

9:30am

Drive to Marsaxlokk

Visit the colorful fishing village and its lively morning market.
Free, 1h

11:00am

Walk Along Marsaxlokk Promenade

Admire traditional luzzu boats and enjoy a peaceful coastal stroll.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Tartarun Restaurant

Fresh seafood with views of the harbor, open for lunch between 12pm-3pm.
EUR30, 1h

1:30pm

Swim at St. Peter’s Pool

Natural rock pool ideal for swimming and sunbathing in the afternoon.
Free, 2h

3:30pm

Blue Grotto Boat Tour

Explore stunning sea caves with boat trips running 9am-5pm, weather permitting.
EUR10, 1h

5:00pm

Return to Valletta

Head back to your base for evening relaxation.
EUR15, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Rubino

Traditional Maltese cuisine in a charming Valletta setting, open until 10pm.
EUR30, 2h
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Day 6: Northern Coast and Beaches

Mellieħa and Golden Bay, Malta on September 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Punta Cross

Seaside café serving a hearty breakfast to start your day, opens at 7am.
EUR12, 1h

9:00am

Mellieħa Parish Church

Visit this prominent hilltop church and enjoy panoramic island views.
Free, 1h

10:30am

St. Agatha's Tower (Red Tower)

Explore Malta’s famous coastal watchtower and its scenic surroundings.
EUR5, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Commando Restaurant

Mediterranean meals near Golden Bay beach, perfect after morning sightseeing.
EUR25, 1h

1:30pm

Golden Bay Beach Afternoon

Relax on one of Malta’s most stunning sandy beaches, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Free, 3h

4:30pm

Coastal Hike to Ghajn Tuffieha Bay

Walk scenic coastal trails with breathtaking views between two beautiful bays.
Free, 1h30m

6:30pm

Return to Valletta

Travel back to town for your evening plans.
EUR15, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Sciacca Grill

Enjoy grilled specialties at this popular Valletta eatery open until 10pm.
EUR35, 2h
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Day 7: Leisure in Sliema

Sliema, Malta on September 9, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Mint

Contemporary café with great coffee and breakfast options, opens 8am.
EUR12, 1h

10:00am

Sliema Promenade Walk

Leisurely stroll along the seafront with cafés and shops to explore.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Ta’ Kris

Taste traditional Maltese cuisine in a well-loved local spot.
EUR20, 1h

2:00pm

Spa at Phoenicia Hotel

Unwind with wellness treatments and massages, appointment recommended.
EUR60, 2h

5:00pm

Shopping at The Point Mall

Browse local and international shops for souvenirs and gifts.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Chophouse

Waterfront steakhouse with fresh seafood options and great atmosphere.
EUR40, 2h
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Day 8: Historic Valletta Day

Valletta, Malta on September 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Piadina Caffe

Quick and tasty breakfast in Valletta’s city center, opens 7:30am.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

National Museum of Archaeology

Explore Malta’s prehistoric artifacts, open 10am to 5pm.
EUR10, 1h30m

11:15am

Fortifications Walk

Walk the city walls and learn about Valletta’s military architecture.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Café Society

Enjoy fresh seafood dishes in a relaxed Valletta brasserie.
EUR22, 1h

2:30pm

Manoel Theatre Tour

Visit one of Europe’s oldest working theatres, tours at 2:30pm and 4:30pm.
EUR10, 1h

4:00pm

Coffee at Lot Sixty One

Sample specialty coffee in this contemporary café, open until 6pm.
EUR8, 1h

5:00pm

Leisure time and shopping

Browse local boutiques or relax in a café.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Palazzo Preca

Refined Mediterranean dishes in an elegant Valletta setting.
EUR35, 2h
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Day 9: Day Trip to Comino

Comino Island, Malta on September 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Valletta Market

Grab pastries and coffee for the ferry ride to Comino.
EUR8, 30m

8:30am

Boat to Comino Blue Lagoon

Catch an early boat to the island famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters.
EUR15, 30m

9:00am

Swim and Snorkel at Blue Lagoon

Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing at one of Malta’s most beautiful spots.
Free, 4h

1:00pm

Lunch picnic or at Comino Café

Bring your own or enjoy simple refreshments at the island café.
EUR15, 1h

2:00pm

Hike to Comino Tower

Walk inland to the historic Santa Maria Tower for panoramic island views.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Return to Malta

Boat ride back to the mainland.
EUR15, 30m

4:00pm

Relax at hotel

Rest before dinner.
Free, 3h

7:30pm

Dinner at Bridge Bar, Valletta

Casual tavern-style dining with live jazz music on some nights.
EUR25, 2h
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Day 10: Nature and Archaeology

Hagar Qim, Mnajdra, Malta on September 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast near hotel

Light breakfast to prepare for an outdoor day.
EUR8, 1h

9:00am

Visit Hagar Qim Temples

Explore impressive megalithic temple complex from 3600 BC, open 9am-5pm.
EUR10, 1h30m

10:45am

Walk to Mnajdra Temples

See intricately constructed temples with ocean views nearby.
Included with Hagar Qim ticket, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Mdina Glass Restaurant

Enjoy modern Mediterranean cuisine in a stylish setting close to archaeological sites.
EUR25, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Ghar Dalam Cave

Discover Malta’s prehistoric caves and fossils, open 9am-3pm.
EUR6, 1h

3:00pm

Drive to Marsaskala

Explore the coastal town and promenade.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Relax at Marsaskala Bay

Enjoy a quiet late afternoon swim or walk along the shore.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Return to Valletta

Travel back for dinner.
EUR15, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Il-Horza

Try traditional Maltese dishes with modern twists in a cozy atmosphere.
EUR30, 2h
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Day 11: Marsaxlokk and Local Culture

Marsaxlokk, Malta on September 13, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Local Bakery

Grab fresh pastizzi and coffee at a bakery in Marsaxlokk.
EUR8, 1h

9:30am

Marsaxlokk Market

Enjoy the vibrant fish market and local produce, best in the morning.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Walk to Delimara Peninsula

Explore quiet coastal areas and views towards Gozo.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Blue Elephant

Dine on fresh seafood in a relaxed setting next to the sea.
EUR30, 1h

3:00pm

Drive to Pretty Bay, Birzebbuga

Afternoon swim or sunbathe at the sandy beach nearby.
Free, 2h

5:30pm

Return to Valletta

Travel back for pleasant evening options.
EUR15, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at legligin Wine Bar

Taste local wines paired with traditional small plates in Valletta.
EUR25, 2h
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Day 12: Explore Northern Villages

Naxxar and Mosta, Malta on September 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tal-Furnar Bakery, Naxxar

Start your day with Maltese bread specialties and coffee in a local bakery.
EUR10, 1h

9:00am

Visit Naxxar Parish Church

Admire baroque architecture and local art inside the church.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Mosta Dome tour

Explore this remarkable Rotunda with one of the largest unsupported domes in the world.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Il-Baqra Restaurant, Mosta

Enjoy contemporary Maltese cuisine in a town center eatery.
EUR20, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Ta’ Qali Crafts Village

Browse artisan workshops and purchase local crafts.
Free, 2h

3:30pm

Drive to Golden Bay

Late afternoon beach visit for swimming or sunset photography.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Return to Valletta

Head back for evening leisure.
EUR15, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Harbour Club

Dine with a view serving Mediterranean dishes in an elegant environment.
EUR35, 2h
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Day 13: Outdoor Adventure

Mellieħa and Nearby Nature, Malta on September 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Gauci Family Bakery

Enjoy fresh baked goods and coffee in Mellieħa’s village square.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Nature Walk to Għadira Bay

Walk the coastal path with stunning sea views and birdwatching opportunities.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Mint Café

Modern café offering fresh salads and light meals in Mellieħa.
EUR18, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Popeye Village

Explore the film set turned theme park, open daily 9am-6pm.
EUR15, 2h

3:30pm

Relax at Mellieħa Bay

Afternoon swim and sunbathe on Malta’s longest sandy beach.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Return to Valletta

Evening free for rest or optional nightlife.
EUR15, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Palazzo Parisio, Naxxar

Dine in a beautiful aristocratic palace serving gourmet Mediterranean cuisine.
EUR45, 2h
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Day 14: Cultural and Art Day

Valletta and Surrounds, Malta on September 16, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Giuseppi’s Café

Traditional café with excellent coffee and breakfast options.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

National Art Gallery

Explore Maltese and European art collections, open 10am-6pm.
EUR10, 2h

11:45am

Explore Strait Street

Walk this historic nightlife street, now filled with bars and street art.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Caffe Cordina

Return for lunch at this historic and popular Valletta venue.
EUR20, 1h

2:30pm

Malta Experience Show

Watch this audiovisual show summarizing Malta’s rich history, open with multiple daily showings.
EUR10, 1h

4:00pm

Relax at Lower Barrakka Gardens

Serene gardens with views and statues perfect for a reflective afternoon.
Free, 1h

5:30pm

Coffee at Fontanella Tea Garden

End your day with cakes and views in this beloved café.
EUR10, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Guze Bistro

Well-reviewed bistro offering creative Maltese dishes in an intimate setting.
EUR30, 2h
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Day 15: St. Paul’s Bay and Bugibba

St. Paul's Bay / Bugibba, Malta on September 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Isle of MTV Café

Beachfront café with excellent breakfast options to start your day by the sea.
EUR12, 1h

9:00am

Walk along Bugibba Seafront

Pleasant promenade for walking and exploring shops and cafes.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Visit Malta National Aquarium

Explore marine life exhibitions and interactive displays, open 10am to 5pm.
EUR15, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Brooklyn Burger Bar

Enjoy casual dining with excellent gourmet burgers and salads.
EUR20, 1h

2:30pm

Relax at St. Paul's Bay Beach

Spend a leisurely afternoon swimming or sunbathing on the sandy stretch.
Free, 3h

5:30pm

Visit Wignacourt Tower

See this historic 17th-century coastal watchtower and its surroundings.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Capo Crudo

Stylish seafood restaurant offering fresh local fish and Mediterranean dishes.
EUR35, 2h
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Day 16: Relax and Last-Minute Shopping

Sliema, Malta on September 18, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Mint

A modern café perfect for a relaxed start before shopping.
EUR12, 1h

10:00am

Shop at the Plaza Shopping Centre

Browse a variety of stores for last-minute gifts and souvenirs.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Surfside Restaurant

Enjoy casual seaside dining with fresh fish and Mediterranean dishes.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Walk to Tower Road and Ferries

Enjoy the coastal scenery while exploring the lively Sliema promenade.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Coffee at Café del Mar

Relax and watch the sunset with a refreshing drink, open till 7pm.
EUR10, 1h

6:00pm

Return to accommodation

Prepare for departure and pack.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Farewell Dinner at The Medina Restaurant

Enjoy a fine dining experience with Mediterranean and international cuisine in Valletta.
EUR50, 2h
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Day 17: Departure Day

Valletta / Malta International Airport on September 19, 2025

7:30am

Light Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a relaxed morning with light breakfast before check-out.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Check Out and Transfer to Airport

Private or shuttle transfer to Malta International Airport for your departure.
EUR20, 30m
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