10 Things to See and Do in Malta.

Previously loved in February 2012 as ‘5 Things to See and Do in Malta’, zest added in 2017…

The Mediterranean island of Malta features highly on many of our bucket lists; the appeal of the azure sea and year round sunshine is hard to abate. Aside from fantastic outdoor activities and wonderful beaches, there is also an abundance of history to be found on the island. To help you choose how to spend your time in Malta, in no particular order, here’s our pick of 10 things to see and do.

Blue Lagoon, Comino. Photo by: twindesigner/Adobe Stock

1. Walk Along Dingli Cliffs

The Dingli Cliffs are an impressive sight, especially from the water on a boat cruise. One of the best ways to experience them however is a walk along the top of the cliffs; enjoy the view of the village of Dingli on the left hand side and views over the uninhabited island of Filfla. Come here in the evening for the charming atmosphere and stunning sunsets.

2. Fort Rinella

Dating back to 1878, Fort Rinella is one of the top historical sites in Malta. Home to one of only two surviving Armstrong 100-tonne guns, the fort is quite famous. With period-dressed volunteers on hand to answer all of your questions, a visit here will take you back in history, more so if you join one of the guided tours. The tour will begin with the firing of the cannon plus a live demonstration of how the fort would have been defended during an attack. With plenty more displays and hands-on activities in this interesting and informative environment, everyone will enjoy this activity.

3. The Three Cities

Across the Grand Harbour from Valletta you will find Cottonera where the Three Cities; Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua, lay. Here you can gain an intriguing insight into the island and its history. Each has a unique charm and character that you will struggle to find elsewhere in Malta. There is plenty to see and do during your visit; why not first stop by at Bishop’s Palace built in 1542 and then visit the Maritime Museum. The Safe Haven Gardens are nice to see as well.

Wied il Mielah Window, Gharb. Photo by: Hans Debruyne/Adobe Stock

4. Mdina

Mdina is the old capital of Malta and a visit should feature within your ‘To Do’ list. The medieval walled town sits atop a hill in the centre of the island and houses a population of around 300 residents within the walls. It is however attached to the village of Rabat which has a population of 11,000. A visit here is a must. Come to see the fantastic buildings from St Paul’s Cathedral to Vilhenna Palace, not forgetting the Mdina Dungeons and the Benedictine Monastery.

5. Gozo

No visit to Malta is complete without hopping aboard a ferry and visiting the neighbouring island of Gozo. Gozo is a little unique slice of heaven and is varied enough for a day trip or a longer stay. There is a selection of picturesque towns and villages dotted across the island each offering something a little different. You won’t tire of things to do on the island with activities ranging from diving and snorkelling in the surrounding waters to shopping or cycling. Near the site of the former Azure Window is the Blue Hole, an extremely popular diving location.

6. The Wied il-Mielah Window

Although the famous Azure Window is no more, the alternative natural-formed marble arch is worthy of a visit. Located on the north-west coast of Gozo, a road from the village of Gharb will take you directly there. It’s possible to even enter the Window because the arch is still quite thick.

7. Ggantija Temples

These two prehistoric temples are located on Gozo. One boasts being the oldest stone structure in the world- older than Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids. The temples are said to have been built in 24 hours by a female giant called Sunsuna. It’s believed they were a place for pilgrimage, dedicated to the Great Earth Mother, and once housed an oracle who would have visions of the future. Visit for yourself to contemplate just how these structures were built and their significance.

Traditional Maltese dghajsa bobbing in Malta’s Grand Harbour. Photo by: David Woolfenden/Adobe Stock

8. Learn more about Malta itself

In the old capital, Mdina, is the 18th century Magisterial Palace of Justice which houses the National Museum of Natural History. The palace alone is impressive but the various displays are sure to interest all ages, including some great fossils and information on the national bird (Blue Rock Trush) and national plant (Maltese Centaury), among many more.

There’s also the Museum of Archaeology in Gozo, illustrating the cultural history of the island. It boasts some incredible relics, including some found at the Ggantija Temples.

The Malta at War Museum in Vittoriosa tells the dark tale of Malta throughout the World War 2 includes a tour of the underground World War 2 shelter. The Lascaris War Rooms are also worth a visit.

9. Grand Harbour Cruise

Take a water tour in a traditional wooden Maltese dghajsa. Where a thousand of these boats once floated, now only a handful remain so a trip is a must while you can. Purchase your ticket from Valletta or Vittoriosa.

10. Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum

This is an absolutely incredible experience. Once an underground cemetery thought to hold around 7000 bodies, artefacts found here have been dated back to 4000BC. Visit to see the only examples of prehistoric paintings to be found on Malta.

Book car hire to explore all the highlights of Malta

These are just a selection of the wealth of things to see and do in Malta. Visit the island and discover your own list of must see and dos. If you have already been, what would feature in your top attractions? Get a quote for your car hire today to make the most of your time there and allow all the sights to be easily accessible.

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