Malta is more than a holiday destination. Its stunning beaches, balmy climate, rich history, and fascinating culture make it one of the most beautiful undiscovered gems of Europe. Home to a myriad of sights to see, places to visit and cuisine to sample, the compact island of Malta offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you want the convenience of a city break, the indulgence of a beach resort or the high energy of a party, there is a holiday to suit all expectations and budgets on this beautiful island.
Of course, there are plenty of remarkable vacation destinations around the world, but here are the reasons why Malta deserves to go to the top of your list.
Megalithic Temples
For a journey back through time, you can’t beat the incredible Megalithic Temples of Malta. These architectural masterpieces are prehistoric monumental buildings constructed between 3600 B.C. and 700 B.C. and considered the oldest freestanding structures on Earth. Classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, the temples are awe-inspiring to see in real life. There are at least 20 megalithic temples on Malta and Gozo, most of which are not open to visitors. However, the six temples that make up the UNESCO World Heritage Site are open to tourists and are well worth visiting. The best-known temples are Mnajdra and Hagar Qim, both located within 500 meters of each other on the southeastern coastline. The other temples scatter across Malta and Gozo, so it is worth hiring a car if you plan to visit them all.
Mdina
Historians will also love the beautiful walled city of Mdina, which has a rich history spanning more than 4,000 years. The beautiful mix of medieval and Baroque architecture and the winding, narrow streets are especially beautiful and atmospheric by night as they are lit with the soft glow of old-fashioned street lamps. Head to the Fontanella Tea Garden to sample some of the best cake in Malta and check out the jaw-dropping views from the city walls.
St. Julian’s
Located on the Maltese coast north of Valetta, St. Julian’s or San Giljan is known for its exciting nightlife and new restaurants. Popular with locals and tourists alike, the town used to be a small fishing village but has grown over the years, and now, has a population of more than 8,000. Foodies are spoiled with choices in this beautiful town, as there is a multitude of eateries, offering a variety of cuisines and atmospheres. After sampling some of the local culinary delights, take a stroll along the promenade and enjoy breathtaking views of the sea.
Blue Lagoon, Comino
Located between the islands of Malta and Gozo lies the tiny island of Comino. Only 3.5 square kilometers long, there are no cars or inhabitants on this island, except for one hotel. The star attraction of this little piece of paradise is the Blue Lagoon, a sheltered inlet of shimmering azure water and pristine white sands. Super popular with visitors on a day trip, the Blue Lagoon is a fantastic spot for hiking in the summer and the winter, and the crystal-clear waters make it ideal for scuba diving, snorkeling, and swimming.
Ramla Bay
When you want to get away from it all, Ramla Bay is the place to go. Thought of as the best beach in Malta, it is also known as the Red Sandy Beach due to the hue of the sand. There are a few cafes and food stalls located around the beach, but for the most part, the area surrounding the coastline is relatively undeveloped. The lush greenery of the valley gives way to the stunning red sands of the beach protected by sand dunes.
There is much more to the beautiful island of Malta than this short list, but you will have to go there and see it for yourself!
