Top Malta Tours & Vacations 2024/2025 [reviews & photos]

Malta Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

39 Malta trips. Compare tour itineraries from 13 tour companies. 75 reviews. 4.9/5 avg rating.

Small Group Malta Tours

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Top Malta Attractions & Experiences

Top Malta Experiences

  • Scuba dive and see the colorful marine life. You’re on an island, get out in the water!
  • Try the food! Malta has some unique dishes, including rabbit-meat pasta and pea pastries.
  • Join in on a Malta street party. These are often held in the summer months, held in numerous towns around the island.
  • Experience the street carnival that happens every February. Enjoy the parade floats and costumes that line the streets of Valletta.
  • Enjoy fish from Marsaxlokk, a fishing village complete with an open-air fish market every Sunday.

Malta Tours & Travel Guide

Malta Attractions & Landmarks Guide

Sailing into Malta is like taking a trip back to the Middle Ages -- the skyline of the walled Maltese capital, Valletta, is a flurry of domes, turrets and spires, mostly built by the Knights of St. John, whose origins were in the Crusades. Situated in the mid-Mediterranean between Sicily and Tunisia, Malta has two main islands (the smaller being Gozo), intriguing cities, and plenty of history to explore, with both European and North African influences. 

What is there to do in Malta?

Malta is filled with adventure year round. What visitors might do depends on the season, but regardless of what time of year you visit, there’s loads to do.

1. Eat fish from the market – in Marsaxlokk, each Sunday, there is an open air market where both tourists and locals go to buy the local fish. Spend the day walking around the fishing village, with boats and restaurants lining the shore. Visit one of the local restaurants to indulge in the “catch,” or purchase some to cook up at home. The market boasts more than just fish. There are bars, shops, and it’s a great place to buy souvenirs!

2. Visit the film location of Popeye – did you know the movie Popeye was filmed in Malta? You can visit the set, and popeye village. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by Popeye, before entering a land of fun. Play on the water trampolines, take a boat ride, go to the indoor jump around, and for the adults, enjoy some wine.

3. Wine Tasting – on an extended note from Popeye’s village, Malta is surprisingly a wine growing region! One of the more popular wineries is the Meridiana wine estate on the northern end of the island. Spend the day sipping on some local Maltese wines.

4. Spend some time in the water – whether you’re looking to swim, snorkel, or sail on a boat, you have endless opportunities for some water action. Head over to the island of Comino and swim in the blue lagoon. The island is car free, and visitors are met with alluring azure waters.

5. Another island (that’s a bit more populated where you can stay overnight) is Gozo island. Gozo also offers incredible azure waters, there’s a natural pool to soak in.

6. There are plenty of beaches to visit, and if you’re there in the warmer months, it’s a must! If you’re traveling with kids, consider checking out Mellieha Bay or Pretty Bay. Both offer shallow water, great for young kids. Water sports are plenty at Golden Bay, but with that comes many tourists. Some of the most scenic beaches include Ghajn Tuffieha Bay, and San Blas Bay. San Blas is a bit more secluded as it’s only reachable from walking.

7. Malta offers some of the best scuba diving in all of Europe! Explore marine life, see sunken ships, and caves! There is scuba diving both beginners and those who are more experienced. Both offer beautiful scenery. If underwater diving isn’t your thing, there are other water sports options. There’s parasailing, paddling, jet skiing, or sailing. All are great options and fun ways to explore Malta.

8. Enjoy the views from Upper Barrakka Gardens – take a walk along the gardens and enjoy the beautiful landscape and the view of Valletta, Malta’s capital city. The gardens offer a panoramic view of the Grand Harbour and the rest of the city, and it’s free!

9. Visit the three cities – the three cities; Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua are worth a visit to learn about the history of Malta. The cities also offer an incredible view of the grand harbor (right near the Barrakka Gardens!) It’s easy to take the water taxi from Valletta, with a quick 7 minute trip across the water. They are also accessible by bus and car.

10. Walk around the former Capital of Malta – Before Valletta took over as the capital city, Mdina was the capital. Any history lover should visit Mdina and it’s historical monuments, including St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Vilhena Palace. Mdina is a great getaway from city life. Many visitors love the city for it’s charm and quiet streets. They don’t call it “the silent city” for nothing!

Island h=Hopping in Malta 

Malta is the main island, and it is home of the capital city Valletta. There is lots to do on the “main island” but the other islands are worth exploring as well! North of Malta is Comino Island, and while there aren’t really people living there, it’s worth a visit. There are no cars.

The island is pretty small, clocking in at less than 4 square kilometers. This is an easy day trip. The other popular island in Malta is Gozo, which is more inhabited. The ferry ride is quick between Gozo and Malta island (about twenty minutes).

Gozo is more secluded and  on the calmer side, offering great opportunities for rest and relaxation. There are still things to do in Gozo, most in the form of getting our doors and soaking in the scenic landscape.

Cities in Malta

There are a couple top cities that visitors spend time in when visiting Malta. Luckily, the country isn’t too large, so it’s easy to have a home base (or two) and hop around to visit various cities within Malta.

Some of the popular cities are:

1. Valletta – the country’s capital. A great place to stay when first arriving in Malta, since it’s near the airport. The capital is filled with bustle – restaurants, bars, shops, things to do. Consider making Valletta a home base for at least part of the trip, especially if you’re relying on public transportation.

2. Victoria is the capital of Gozo, so it shares the similarities of Valletta, just on a bit smaller scale. There is no lack of shops, restaurants, and transportation. Another great hub if you’re spending a few nights on Gozo island. Though if time is limited, Victoria is an easy day trip with a quick ferry ride to Valletta.

3. Mdina is another popular city in Malta. The medieval city, also known as the silent city, is quiet with limited cars on the streets. The city is full of historical attractions. The city of Rabat has a similar vibe. Both cities are “in-land” cities, so you’re a bit off the water, giving you a bit more of a secluded feel.

Souvenirs from Malta

One of the most exciting parts of a trip is bringing home souvenirs for your loved ones (and for yourself) to remember your exciting adventure! Below are some of the most popular souvenirs people purchase on their Malta vacation:

1. Blown glass: Many artists love to practice their glassblowing technique and create unique pieces. These make for awesome gifts! They’re one of a kind, you’re supporting local artists, and you get a beautiful memory of your trip. Pick up some candle holders, vases, or centerpieces for your table.

2. Nougat: A sweet treat is always a welcomed gift! Nougat is extremely popular in Malta. The treat is so popular, you’ll have no difficulty finding nougat stalls along the streets.

3. Pottery and Ceramics: Blown glass is not the only beautiful handcrafted piece you can take home! Remember your Mediterranean adventure with some local pottery. The mix of Mediterranean colors and designs will carry that European sea-vibe home with you.

Historic sights in Malta

Malta is filled with historic sites. Of course, you can venture to Mdina, the historical ex-capital city, to learn about the history of Malta. Beyond Mdina, you can find plenty of historical locations throughout Malta.

1. Ggantija Temples – One of the most important historical sites in Malta, there is no question why this site is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. They date back between 3600 and 3200, but have been well preserved.

2. St. John’s Co-Cathedral – originally built in 1572, the cathedral went under a remodel in the 17th century that helped create the gorgeous architecture that is seen today. This is a great place to visit if you have any interest in the history of the Knights. The cathedral is home to some immaculate fine art, including pieces by Caraviggio.

3. Fort Rinella – The world’s first mechanical was built in 1878. Visitors can see the progress of mechanical advancement through the fort. Make sure to stay and watch a live re-enactment of numerous events through an animated tour.

4. Grandmasters Palace – also referred to as “the palace,” the Grandmasters palace is the seat of government. Visiting the palace allows guests to learn about the political history of Malta. Don’t forget to make a stop at the armory, where the weapons used by the Knights are held.

5. Auberge de Castille – Another great site to visit if you’re interested in the Knights. The Auberge de Castille was built in Valletta in 1574. Perched on the highest point in the city, this was where the Knights called home. Ruined during WWII, the castille has been restored, still boasting incredible architecture.

Malta Cuisine

One of the best parts of going on a trip is trying new delicious food! Malta has some pretty unique but delicious treats, so make sure to check out some of these on your trip:

1. Pastizzi – a savoury pastry that is a popular snack among the streets of Malta. A breaded ball often filled with ricotta or mashed peas.

2. Timpana is a macaroni pie that’s baked until golden. This delicious dish is filled with meats, cheese, vegetables and pastry crust.

3. Prickly pears – basically seems like a combination fruit. The outside looks like a melon mixed with a cactus. Bite inside and you’ll get flavors of watermelon, fig, and strawberry.

4. Cassata – a sweet treat that originated in southern Italy. Marzipan, almond paste and ricotta combine to make this delicious cake.

Malta Reviews & Ratings

4.9/5  Excellent
75  Reviews
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A

Anthony

Mar 2024

Written on

Malta and Gozo Discovery

Excellent trip, and Excellent Guide

A

Alan

Nov 2023

Written on

Malta and Gozo Discovery

The tour was well organised & we saw everything that was promised in the itinerary.Our tour guide had lived in Malta all her life & had excellent knowledge &...

J

Janet

Nov 2023

Written on

Malta and Gozo Discovery

Excellent guide great trip

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