12-Day Ultimate Malta Travel Itinerary: Discover History, Beaches, and Culture

Day 1: Arrival and Valletta

Valletta, Malta on June 25, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Fontanella Tea Garden

Enjoy a scenic breakfast atop the Upper Barrakka Gardens with panoramic views and delicious pastries to start your Maltese adventure.
EUR7, 1h

10:00am

Explore Upper Barrakka Gardens and Saluting Battery

Visit these iconic gardens offering stunning harbor views and catch the noon cannon firing at the Saluting Battery, a historic artillery platform.
Free, 1h

11:00am

Visit St. John's Co-Cathedral

Explore the richly decorated Baroque cathedral famous for Caravaggio’s masterpiece and elaborate interior.
EUR15, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Nenu the Artisan Baker

Taste traditional Maltese ftira sandwich and other local specialties in a cozy Valletta bakery.
EUR18, 1h

2:00pm

The National Museum of Archaeology

Discover Malta’s prehistoric heritage with artifacts from the Neolithic temples representing some of the world's oldest free-standing structures.
EUR10, 1h30m

4:00pm

Walk along Valletta Waterfront

Stroll down the promenade lined with colorful warehouses, now home to cafes and shops, perfect for a relaxing late afternoon.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Barracuda Restaurant

Dine on fresh seafood with harbor views in one of Valletta’s most acclaimed restaurants.
EUR40, 2h
View Hotels

Day 2: Valletta and Three Cities

Valletta and Cottonera, Malta on June 26, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Caffe Cordina

Start your day with a traditional Maltese breakfast in a historic café located in Merchant Street, Valletta.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Take the ferry to the Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua

Explore these fortified cities loaded with history, charming marinas, and the Inquisitor’s Palace.
EUR4 (round trip ferry), 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Don Berto Restaurant in Vittoriosa

Enjoy Mediterranean dishes in a quaint setting close to the waterfront of Vittoriosa.
EUR25, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Fort St. Angelo

Tour the impressive fortification that was vital during the Great Siege of Malta with sweeping views of the Grand Harbour.
EUR12, 1h30m

4:30pm

Return to Valletta and relax at Lower Barrakka Gardens

Enjoy a peaceful garden with hidden nooks and distant sea views after your visit to the Three Cities.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Rubino Restaurant

Savor traditional Maltese cuisine in a charming Valletta historic house.
EUR35, 2h
View Hotels

Day 3: Historic Temples & Mdina

Valletta and Mdina, Malta on June 27, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast at The Grassy Hopper

Grab a healthy and energizing breakfast before a day of exploration.
EUR12, 1h

8:30am

Visit Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum (Advance booking required)

Explore this unique prehistoric subterranean burial site dating to 4000-2500 BC, a must-see world heritage site.
EUR35, 1h

10:30am

Head to Tarxien Temples

Visit these megalithic temple ruins that provide insight into Malta’s ancient civilization. Open 9am to 5pm.
EUR10, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Diar Il-Bniet in Attard

Enjoy farm-to-table Maltese dishes in a rustic Maltese farmhouse setting.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Travel to Mdina and explore the Silent City

Wander through the charming medieval walled city, visiting the Mdina Cathedral and enjoying panoramic views from bastions.
EUR5, 3h

5:30pm

Coffee break at Fontanella Tea Garden in Mdina

Relax and take in the spectacular views from Mdina’s café, known for cakes and surroundings.
EUR6, 45m

7:30pm

Dinner at Bacchus Restaurant, Mdina

Opportunity to feast on Mediterranean delicacies in an elegant setting inside the Silent City.
EUR40, 2h
View Hotels

Day 4: Rabat and Western Malta

Rabat and Western Malta on June 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Jubilee, Rabat

Start your day with a traditional Maltese breakfast in the heart of Rabat.
EUR10, 1h

9:00am

Visit St. Paul's Catacombs

Explore vast underground Roman cemeteries depicting early Christian burial traditions.
EUR6, 1h30m

10:45am

Walk the Mdina Ditch Gardens to Malta Toy Museum

Visit the nostalgic, quirky Toy Museum featuring centuries of toys ideal for family exploration.
EUR5, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Il-Veduta Restaurant, Mdina

Enjoy a panoramic view alongside Mediterranean cuisine in a peaceful terrace setting.
EUR30, 1h

2:00pm

Drive to Dingli Cliffs

Relax and enjoy breathtaking cliffside views over the Mediterranean Sea, perfect for photo stops and nature walks.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Buskett Gardens

A peaceful woodland area where locals and tourists enjoy nature walks and picnics.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Ta’ Kris Restaurant, Sliema (on way back)

Savor authentic Maltese dishes in a cozy atmosphere famed for Sunday roasts and traditional fare.
EUR30, 2h
View Hotels

Day 5: Marsaxlokk and Blue Grotto

Marsaxlokk and Southern Coast, Malta on June 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Michael's Bar Marsaxlokk

Start your day with a view of the colorful fishing boats in the harbor paired with a fresh breakfast.
EUR10, 1h

9:00am

Stroll Marsaxlokk Fish Market

Experience Malta’s traditional fishing village and vibrant market, best seen on Sunday but charming daily.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Visit Blue Grotto sea caves

Take a boat tour (weather dependent) to see stunning sea caverns famous for their vibrant blue waters.
EUR10, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at La Nona in Marsaxlokk

Taste fresh seafood dishes in a casual village restaurant right by the water.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at Pretty Bay, Birzebbuga

Enjoy some beach time on the sandy Pretty Bay, ideal for afternoon sun and swimming.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Valletta

Rest and prepare for next day's island exploration.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Rubino or Valletta local trattoria

Enjoy a relaxed dinner featuring Maltese and Italian fusion dishes in Valletta.
EUR30, 1.5h
View Hotels

Day 6: Gozo Island Adventure

Victoria, Gozo, Malta on June 30, 2025

7:00am

Early breakfast at your Valletta hotel or nearby café

Grab a quick and energizing meal before heading out for the Gozo ferry.
EUR8, 30m

8:00am

Ferry from Cirkewwa to Gozo

Enjoy a 25-minute ferry crossing to the island of Gozo, which offers rural charm and ancient sites.
EUR5, 30m

9:00am

Visit Ggantija Temples

Explore these impressive Neolithic temples older than the pyramids, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
EUR10, 1.5h

11:00am

Head to Victoria (Rabat) Citadel

Walk through the ancient fortified city center with panoramic vistas and museums.
Free entry to Citadel area; museums EUR5-10, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Ta’ Rikardu

Sample Gozitan cheese and local produce paired with traditional Mediterranean dishes.
EUR22, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Azure Window site at Dwejra Bay

See the dramatic coastal scenery where the Azure Window once stood, including the Inland Sea and Fungus Rock.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Check into Gozo accommodation or return ferry to Malta

Relax and prepare for next day’s Gozo explorations or travel back to Malta as preferred.
Varies, Variable

7:30pm

Dinner at Gozo local restaurant or Valletta if returned

Enjoy fresh local seafood or Maltese specialities to conclude your day.
EUR30, 2h
View Hotels

Day 7: Gozo Beaches and Villages

Gozo on July 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ta’ Frenc restaurant

Indulge in a gourmet breakfast in one of Gozo’s top restaurants to fuel a day of exploration.
EUR15, 1h

9:00am

Relax at Ramla Bay

Swim or sunbathe on Gozo’s largest sandy beach with distinctive red sand.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Visit Ta' Pinu Basilica

Tour this impressive pilgrimage church featuring remarkable architecture and peaceful surrounds.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Il-Kartell Ta' Ta' Lam Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Gozitan dishes, including rabbit and fresh fish specialties in a rural setting.
EUR25, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Xlendi Bay

Walk by the bay, swim, or enjoy cliffside cafes in a charming fishing village.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Visit Gozo Museum of Natural Science or local craft shops

Delve into Gozo’s flora, fauna and artisan heritage through interactive exhibits and local crafts.
EUR5, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Dwejra Sunset Restaurant

Relax with a meal featuring sea views and fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the west coast of Gozo.
EUR30, 2h
View Hotels

Day 8: Gozo to Malta Return

Gozo and Valletta, Malta on July 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or local café in Gozo

Enjoy a leisurely morning meal before departing Gozo.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Explore local Gozo markets or crafts

Shop for handmade lace or pottery as unique souvenirs from the island.
Varies, 1h

11:00am

Ferry back to Malta

Return via ferry to the main island to continue your journey.
EUR5, 30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Ta’ Kris Restaurant, Sliema

Relish local comfort food in one of Sliema’s most popular eateries.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Relax on Sliema promenade and beaches

Stroll or swim along the lively coast with spectacular views of Valletta across the water.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Valletta for evening at leisure

Rest or enjoy casual cafes before dinner.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Legligin Wine Bar

Enjoy a laid-back evening with a variety of Maltese tapas and local wines in Valletta’s Old Town.
EUR30, 2h
View Hotels

Day 9: Northern Coast Exploration

Mellieha and Popeye Village, Malta on July 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Mellieha Bay

Start your day with a breakfast overlooking the sea in the peaceful northern town of Mellieha.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Visit Mellieha Parish Church and Explore Villages

Tour the beautiful hilltop church and wander the charming streets and nature trails nearby.
Free, 1h

11:00am

Relax at Mellieha Bay Beach

Enjoy Malta’s largest sandy beach with options for swimming and watersports.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Commando Restaurant

Taste Mediterranean and grilled dishes with top sea views in Mellieha.
EUR30, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Popeye Village

Explore the colorful film set turned amusement park with interactive shows and boat rides.
EUR15, 2h

5:00pm

Return to hotel or explore local area

Leisure time to refresh before dinner.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at the Waterfront Restaurant, Mellieha

Fresh seafood and Maltese fare in a scenic location close to the beach.
EUR35, 2h
View Hotels

Day 10: St. Paul’s Bay and Bugibba

St. Paul's Bay, Malta on July 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Love at First Bite

Start your day in Bugibba with tasty pastries and a strong coffee.
EUR8, 1h

9:00am

Explore St. Paul's Bay promenade

Walk along the waterfront lined with shops, bars, and views of the bay and ancient ruins nearby.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Visit Malta National Aquarium

Discover Mediterranean marine life through impressive exhibits and tanks.
EUR15, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Pickles

Grab a casual lunch featuring burgers and local specialties in Bugibba.
EUR18, 1h

2:30pm

Drive to Għajn Tuffieħa Bay

Relax at a more secluded sandy beach, perfect for an afternoon swim and sunbathing.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Return to hotel, rest

Prepare for a final evening out.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Ta’ Marija Restaurant

Savor authentic Maltese dishes in a rustic countryside ambiance.
EUR35, 2h
View Hotels

Day 11: Comino Island Exploration

Comino, Malta on July 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at your hotel

Early breakfast to prepare for a day trip to Comino Island.
EUR8, 30m

8:30am

Boat trip to Comino

Take a boat from Cirkewwa to Comino, famous for crystal clear waters and the Blue Lagoon.
EUR15, 30m

9:00am

Swim and snorkel at Blue Lagoon

Spend the morning swimming in the turquoise waters and enjoying the stunning natural setting.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch picnic or snack at Comino

Bring a packed lunch or enjoy light snacks available at the small Comino Café.
EUR10, 1h

1:30pm

Hike to Santa Marija Tower

Walk to this coastal watchtower for impressive views of the island and sea.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Return to Malta and relax

Head back to the main island and rest in your accommodation.
EUR15, 30m

7:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Rampila Restaurant

Celebrate your Malta trip with fine dining in a unique historic setting inside Valletta’s fortifications.
EUR50, 2h
View Hotels

Day 12: Departure Day

Valletta, Malta on July 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby café

Enjoy a final Maltese breakfast at leisure.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Last minute shopping in Valletta

Purchase souvenirs such as Maltese lace, honey, or filigree jewelry in local shops.
Varies, 1h

11:00am

Travel to Malta International Airport

Allow ample time for transfer and check-in for your departure.
EUR20 taxi, 30m
View Hotels