Writing about this topic is particularly exciting for me because I’ve been living in Malta for over one year! I’m committed to providing you with honest reviews, highlighting what’s truly worth experiencing and what you might consider skipping. Hope you enjoy!
Situated in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, Malta is a compact country comprised of three main islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino. It is an independent EU country located 50 miles south of Sicily and roughly 200 miles north of Libya. This charming nation is steeped in rich history, a vibrant party scene, and a delectable cuisine. Valletta, one of the smallest capital cities in the world, boasts a history dating back to the 16th century. Malta’s cinematic allure further enhances its charm, as it has served as the backdrop for popular movies and TV series such as Napoleon, Assassin’s Creed, Gladiator, and Game of Thrones.
Currency: Euro (€)
Credit cards are widely accepted. If cash is necessary, you can find plenty of ATMs throughout the country.
Language:
The official language of Malta is both Maltese & English. And yes, Maltese is a language, not just a cute dog breed.
Visa Requirements
United States citizens do not require a visa and are allowed to stay within Malta for up to 90 days.
Best Time To Visit:
What attracts numerous tourists to Malta is its year-round appeal of favorable weather. Winters are mild, with temperatures in the 50s (°F), making it a pleasant destination even in the cooler months. Warmer weather typically begins in early May, and while summers can be quite hot, the island remains a popular destination throughout the season.
Getting Around:
TAXI: Uber & Bolt are an affordable and accessible option that saves travelers the hassle of finding a parking spot. However, traveling from the north to the south or the east to the west of Malta takes about an hour and multiple rides can become expensive.
FERRY: To go from Malta to Comino or Gozo, you’ll need to travel by ferry. During most of the year, the ferries leave at least 1-2 times per hour and the trip takes less than 30 minutes.
The most incessant complaints from locals include heavy traffic, limited parking, and constant construction. Due to the influx of businesses, expats relocating to the island, and increased tourism, Malta has become extremely congested. Traffic can build up quickly, often doubling travel times during peak hours.
TRAVEL TIP: Staying in Valletta, St. Julian’s, or Sliema offers the advantage of having numerous restaurants and bars within easy walking distance. You can also catch a ferry that shuttles between Valletta and Sliema, a quick 10-minute ride that saves you valuable time avoiding traffic.
Where To Stay:
(Valletta, Sliema, St. Julian’s)
St. Julian’s and Sliema stand out as bustling tourist hubs in Malta. St. Julian’s caters particularly well to young travelers seeking a lively nightlife. On the other hand, Sliema, home to a diverse expat community, offers an array of excellent dining options and lively bars. However, it lacks the historical charm that defines Valletta. If it were my first time traveling to Malta, I would wholeheartedly recommend staying in Valletta. Valletta is centrally located and is undoubtedly the most unique and trendiest part of the island.
If your main reason to visit Malta is to lounge in a beach, you might want to reconsider and choose other Mediterranean destinations like Italy or Greece. While Malta is undeniably beautiful, its sandy beaches are limited. However, what Malta lacks in sandy beaches, it more than makes up for with its rich history, cultural landmarks and vibrant party scene.
Valletta Hotels:
The Pheonicia – Grand Hotel Excelsior – The Embassy – Castille Hotel – Palazzo Ignazio
St. Julian’s & Sliema Hotels:
Westin Dragonara – Hilton – Marriot – Cavalieri Art Hotel – 1926 Le Soleil – Corinthia Palace
WHERE TO EAT:
Malta boasts a myriad of dining establishments waiting to be explored. Over the next two years of living in Malta I’m excited to embark on a culinary adventure, sampling as many restaurants as possible, and sharing my top picks with you. As you’ll see, there are many great places listed, along with restaurants and bars recommended by friends that are high on the radar to check out in the future.
TRAVEL TIP: Maltese food is quite interesting, though my husband and I haven’t had the chance to visit many authentic Maltese restaurants. If you’re adventurous enough to try dishes like fried rabbit, stewed horse meat, rabbit liver, and snails, don’t hesitate to make a reservation!
BREAKFAST SPOTS:
The Bagel Hole (Valletta)- Nestled down the steps of a Maltese-style building, this small spot is the first and only bagel shop on the island. If you’re from New York and craving a NY-style, hand rolled bagel, this is where its at! It’s not the best bagel I’ve had, but definitely helps with those cravings.
Tribe (Valletta): Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this establishment offers a trendy atmosphere with outdoor seating, where you can indulge in classic elevated dishes. Their brunch menu is the star!
Word of Mouth (Sliema): This brunch spot offers a vibrant ambiance and a diverse menu with a mix of satisfying and healthy options. Overall the food lacked a wow factor, but I definitely would come again.
Dr. Juice: convenient locations scattered throughout the island, making it an effortless choice for grabbing a refreshing morning smoothie.
Sunday in Scotland (Sliema): Select from delicious pastries, sweet treats, and coffee – a perfect spot for indulging in a leisurely morning or afternoon break.
La Crema (Sliema): Cozy, cute location to grab coffee and a pastry.
As you know, breakfast in Europe isn’t a big affair. In Malta, they keep it simple with coffee and pastizzi. These savory pastries, similar to puff pastry, are filled with either ricotta cheese or a curried pea mixture. You’ll find numerous pastizzerias around the island—I’m still sampling them, so I can’t recommend the best one just yet.
TOP DINNER SPOTS:
I’ve tried so many restaurants across Malta, but these are definitely the ones that have made it to my top list—places I’d recommend to first-time travelers looking for great food and memorable experiences. I’ll keep updating this list as I continue sampling my way around Malta’s vibrant food scene, so stay tuned for more delicious finds!
Rampila (Valletta) – This restaurant’s walls were originally crafted by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century as a component of the protective fortifications surrounding Valletta. It now serves as a unique dining venue. The restaurant is nestled within a medieval tunnel, and provides outdoor terrace seating overlooking views of Valletta’s fortress. Rampilla offers an affordable selection of Mediterranean dishes. We were impressed with the beef carpaccio appetizer and thoroughly enjoyed the Paccheri pork cheek ragu.
N’duja Osteria (Valletta)- small, quaint, charming Italian dining spot tucked away in one of the city’s historic streets. The star dish of the menu is undoubtedly the Orecchiette Ndjua, a pasta cooked with spicy Calabrian sausage. However, every item on the menu is exceptional!
San Paolo Naufrago (Valletta) – Savor delicious pizza and their renowned lasagna while unwinding on the iconic steps of Valletta. Enjoy a relaxed ambiance overlooking the harbor, beautifully lit by hanging lights. This is a 10/10 spot—even if you’re just stopping by for a drink. I love bringing my visitors here; it’s always a hit.
Zero Sei Trattoria Romano (Valletta) – Beloved for its authentic Roman dishes like Cacio e Pepe and Carbonara, this classic spot never disappoints. A true favorite in Valletta!
Harbour Club (Valletta) – incredible date-night spot, especially in the summer when you can book the upper terrace. It offers the best fine dining experience in Malta, surpassing even the one-star restaurants.
Portopalo (Sliema) – Delicious seafood in a relaxed setting where the food outshines the ambiance. This restaurant sits on a busy street in Malta with a lot of pedestrian traffic, which isn’t really my favorite setting—so I’d recommend sitting inside for a more relaxed experience. We ordered a variety of different fish dishes and left really happy. The quality was great, and everything was cooked beautifully.
Tora (Sliema) – Upscale Chinese cuisine with breathtaking views of Valletta. This is definitely one of the better sushi spots on the island. The same chef behind the beach club Manta downstairs—whose food I absolutely love—also runs the kitchen here, so the quality is solid. While I wouldn’t rush back, it was an overall good meal with a beautiful setting that’s worth experiencing at least once.
Hammet’s Gastro Bar (Sliema) – Enjoy flavorful Asian fusion dishes paired with delicious cocktails and great happy hour specials. The vibe is more laid-back, and the front outdoor area tends to get quite crowded—especially during peak times. Prices are reasonable, making it a solid spot for a casual night out without breaking the bank.
Fernando Gastrotheque (Sliema)- This is a legit Michelin-star restaurant—and yes, it comes with a big price tag. I don’t always love super fancy places, but the atmosphere here was great—elegant without feeling stuffy. The service was top-notch and really added to the experience. Our steak was cooked to absolute perfection. This is definitely the ultimate spot for a date night or special occasion if you want to treat yourself.
Zen (St. Julain’s / Portomaso) – 100% takes the cake for the best sushi and Japanese food I’ve had on the island—but dang, it’s pricey. You have to try the teppanyaki experience here; it’s awesome and the food is incredible. I wouldn’t go often because of the price, but I was extremely happy with my visit. Definitely worth it for a special treat! And please don’t confuse this with Zen Sushi To Go—they are for sure not the same experience.
Mamachi (St. Julian’s / Portomaso) – Experience an exciting blend of Japanese-Peruvian fusion in a vibrant, jungle-inspired setting with a live DJ on weekend nights. For the full atmosphere, request a table indoors. With a creative cocktail menu and a delicious selection of seafood, sushi, steak, and more, this spot is easily one of Malta’s top dining destinations.
Ruby Ray’s (St. Julian’s) – has amazing food and a great atmosphere. It’s the sister restaurant of Shakina in Ta’ Xbiex, which is also fantastic. he vibes come with a price tag—you’re looking at close to €20 for butter chicken, not including rice—but honestly, it’s worth every penny. I loved it so much I’d go back in a heartbeat. It’s a perfect spot for a birthday celebration or a girls’ night out. Plus, the bar menu is fantastic and creative, making it easy to spend the whole evening here. And don’t miss their speakeasy next door, Kuch Kuch — a great way to keep the night going!
Kuya (St. Julian’s) – I absolutely love this spot. It’s a laid-back Asian restaurant with a Michelin star, which is pretty rare to find! All of their dishes are packed with flavor, but my favorite by far is the Bang Bang Chicken—seriously, don’t miss it. I was initially skeptical because it’s located in a really touristy area and sits above a very average sushi place, but it’s on a whole different level. The restaurant has two floors, including a rooftop with open-air windows that’s perfect for people-watching and soaking in the street vibe. Prices are totally reasonable, especially considering the quality. A fantastic spot if you’re craving Asian food without breaking the bank.
Salumeria Gardens (St. Julian’s) – hands down my favorite pizza spot in Malta. The setting reminds me of home in Brooklyn — a hidden garden oasis that feels just like some of those secret outdoor gem restaurants back there. It’s perfect for a large group, with plenty of space and a relaxed atmosphere. I also love that it’s just off a main road, yet you’d have no idea there’s this beautiful garden dining area behind the walls.
Jungle Joy (Gzira) – Crowds flock to this laid-back bar, but behind the glass doors at the back, you’ll find some of the best Thai food on the island. I’m obsessed with their Panang curry—it’s easily one of my favorite go-to dishes in Malta. There’s a big TV in the front where people gather to watch popular sports games, and the vibe is very relaxed. You’ll notice more foreigners than locals here, but it never feels overly touristy. I literally order from here once a week. It’s cheap, delicious, and consistently satisfying.
Waterpolo Club (Ta’ Xbiex) – This waterside restaurant, inspired by Sicilian cuisine, offers iconic views of Valletta. We ordered a variety of meat and pasta dishes, and every single one was packed with flavor.
Seafood Market Grill (Ta’ Xbiex) – This place served some of the best seafood I’ve had in Malta, hands down. It’s definitely on the pricier side, so I’d recommend saving it for a special occasion or date night. The location isn’t ideal—situated across from a busy street and a gas station—but once you’re inside, that all fades away. The staff was incredibly professional, which added to the overall experience. What really stood out to me was the lobster. It’s rare to find it on a menu without a sky-high price tag, but here, I was able to enjoy it in a rich, delicious butter sauce that was absolutely worth it. I really loved the meal and would 100% return.
Terrone (Birgu) – Dishes inspired by southern Italian and traditional Maltese cooking built within Fort St. Angelo. This is hands down one of my favorite spots on the island based off ambiance & food. Birgu is definitely a bit out of the way, but if you find yourself hungry while exploring the Three Cities, it’s absolutely worth checking out. It’s a hidden gem with a more local feel, and a great spot to escape the busier tourist areas.
NEXT ON MY LIST:
Da Pippo (Valletta)- N Japanese Bistro & Sake Bar (Valletta) – Noni (Valletta) – Casa Sotto (Valletta) – Ion Habour (Valletta) – Legligin Restaurant (Valletta)- Barracuda (St. Julian’s) – Salt & Pepper (St. Julian’s) – Oy Oy (St. Julian’s) – Picasso (Sliema) – Brasserie Rodin (St. Julian’s) – Bistro Bocca (Ta’ Xbiex)
BEST SPOTS TO GRAB A COCKTAIL:
| Kammy Cocktail Bar (Valletta) | La Luz (Sliema) |
| Babel (Valletta) | Guadalupes (Sliema) |
| Cafe Society (Valletta) | The Exiles (Sliema) |
| Queen Elizabeth Pub (Valletta/Sliema) | Hammett’s Monastik (Sliema) |
TOP ATTRACTIONS IN MALTA:
1. Upper Barraka Gardens (Valletta)
The Upper Barrakka Gardens rank among Malta’s most popular attractions, drawing numerous visitors each year. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of Valletta’s Grand Harbour and Vittoriosa’s Grand Harbour Marina. At noon and 4 pm, visitors can witness the firing of cannons in the Saluting Battery below. This tradition dates back to the city’s defense against the Ottoman Empire. Today, it serves as a ceremonial event. Additionally, the gardens feature a lift that provides convenient access to the Grand Harbour below.
2. St. Johns Co-Cathedral (Valletta)
St. John’s Co-Cathedral played a central role in the religious and cultural life of Malta. The iconic landmark embodies Baroque architecture, an opulent style established in Italy in the late 16th century. Though modest on the exterior, once inside, you’ll be captivated by the intricate marble and dazzling gold sculptures. Constructed between 1572 and 1577 by the Order of St. John, the cathedral was dedicated to St. John the Baptist, the patron saint. The term “co-cathedral” reflects its status as one of two cathedrals in Malta, alongside the Cathedral of St. Paul in Mdina.
3. Explore the streets of Valletta
Valletta, Malta’s capital, is one of the first cities named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite its size, the city is packed with a plethora of historical landmarks, museums, and Michelin-star restaurants. Its narrow streets and preserved landmarks invite visitors to stroll and soak up the city’s charm.
4. Fort St. Elmo (Valletta)
A historic fortress built during the 16th century to withstand the wrath of the Ottoman Empire. It faced the brunt of Ottoman forces during the siege of Malta in 1565. Despite the odds, the small fort held out for a month before surrendering. During British rule, it was upgraded for artillery and played a key role in Malta’s defense in World War II. On June 11, 1940 it endured the first aerial bombardment on the island. Given its history, today, it now houses the National War Museum.
5. Mdina
Mdina is a medieval city that dates back as far as 4000 years. It has been the backdrop of multiple movies and TV shows including Game of Thrones. Like Valletta, Mdina’s winding streets are best explored without a plan. Make sure to take note of the city gate which was once featured in GoT as the entrance to King’s Landing (pictured below). Also, Mesquita Square is where the fight between Jaime Lannister and Ned Stark broke out.
6. St. Paul’s Catacombs (Rabat)
St. Paul’s Catacombs, the largest in Malta and located just a short walk from Mdina, offer a fascinating glimpse into early Christian burial practices. Dating back to the 4th to 8th centuries AD, these catacombs were once a burial site for Christians and are believed to have been used by Malta’s Roman inhabitants. The catacombs span multiple levels and cover approximately 2,000 square meters. Visitors can explore a variety of burial chambers, including niches, arched chambers, and stone benches used for funeral feasts.
7. Comino / Blue Lagoon
Comino is home to only one resident and is mostly composed of rocky terrain and an abandoned hotel. The island is famous for its Blue Lagoon, which boasts crystal-clear waters and stunning beauty. I highly recommend visiting early in the morning to avoid the crowds. The beach area is very small, so most visitors lounge on the surrounding rocks and swim in the lagoon. Be aware that it can get extremely crowded, and there is no shade available. There are several food trucks where you can enjoy a variety of treats, including cocktails, burgers, fries, hotdogs, and ice cream.
8. Explore the Marsaxlokk Fishing Village
The traditional fishing town of Marsaxlokk is an iconic village located in the southeast of Malta. Here, you’ll find the famous luzzus, brightly colored boats that dock at the harbor. Many tourists visit on Sundays to experience the renowned fish market, though it can get quite crowded. While it’s a charming sight, visiting Marsaxlokk is not a must-see when exploring Malta.
9. St. Peter’s Pool
From Marsaxlokk, you can enjoy a scenic (though slightly hilly) 30-minute walk to one of Malta’s most beautiful swimming spots. In the summer, this area is popular with both tourists and locals, who can be seen lounging on the surrounding rocks and diving into the crystal-clear waters.
10. Day Trip to Gozo
Gozo is the second largest island in the Maltese archipelago located northwest of Malta. A convenient ferry service runs from the northern part of Malta to the southern coast of Gozo hourly. If you’re traveling with a car, you can easily bring it aboard the ferry. One of the main highlights of Gozo is the capital city of Victoria, home to the Citadel, a historic fortress dating back to 1500 BC. Strategically placed on a hill, the Citadel offers sweeping views of the island. Gozo also boasts numerous viewpoints, beautiful beaches, scenic hiking paths, unique salt pans, and some of the world’s oldest freestanding structures. For a comprehensive guide to Gozo, stay tuned for my upcoming detailed guide!
11. Dingli Cliffs & Blue Grotto
Rising to around 250 meters (820 feet) above sea level, the Dingli Cliffs provide breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. They’re perfect for a scenic hike or simply bringing a bottle of wine to savor a spectacular sunset. This is an absolute must-visit when exploring Malta’s west coast. Just 15 minutes down the road, you can also visit the stunning Blue Grotto, another gem offering some of the most gorgeous views of Malta’s dramatic western shoreline.
12. Golden Beach / Miracle Beach
Golden Bay, also known as Golden Beach, is one of Malta’s most popular and picturesque beaches, located on the northwest coast of the island. Since sandy beaches are limited in Malta, Golden Bay often becomes quite crowded, especially during peak season. Just south of Golden Bay lies Għajn Tuffieħa, also called Miracle Beach, which offers equally stunning scenery but with a more tranquil atmosphere.
If sunbathing isn’t your thing, you can head over to Singita Miracle Beach, a fantastic spot to enjoy a refreshing cocktail or fresh seafood while taking in breathtaking views. It’s also one of the best places on the island to watch the sunset.
Beyond the beaches, this area is a haven for hikers, with several amazing trails that showcase the dramatic west coast landscape. I love bringing visitors here to highlight this difference and share the unique charm of Malta’s western coastline.
13. Popeye Village
Popeye Village, originally built as the filming location for the 1980 musical Popeye starring Robin Williams, has since been transformed into a charming family-friendly theme park. Having lived nearby for a year and a half, I’ve visited before but feel I’m good for the rest of my time here — it’s not somewhere I feel the need to return often. The village appeals mostly to families, thanks to its water activities, relaxed spots for sunbathing, and plenty of space for kids to run around and play after exploring.
14. Charter a Boat
I can’t recommend this enough — it’s absolutely worth it. Renting a boat that comfortably fits 8 to 12 people typically costs around €600 to €800. I personally use Sailing Charters Malta, having built a great relationship with them, but there are plenty of other companies island-wide to choose from. Every time someone visits, I make sure to do this because it’s such an unforgettable experience. Included in the price with this company is a skipper and boat rental from 9 AM to 6 PM, with fuel included, unlimited bottled water, complimentary masks and snorkels, plus two stand-up paddleboards on every yacht.
While most people head north to the Blue Lagoon, it’s often crowded with tourists, which can diminish the experience. Instead, I strongly recommend exploring the south. Ask your skipper to take you to the Blue Grotto, where you can snorkel or paddle inside the stunning sea caves and witness firsthand the breathtaking beauty of Malta’s coastline.
15. Odyssey
Odyssey Malta, located at Mercury Towers in St. Julian’s, is a cutting-edge entertainment attraction that offers an unforgettable journey through the rich history and culture of the Maltese Islands. If museums aren’t your thing, this immersive experience is a fantastic alternative. Visitors travel through a series of rooms in the Dark Walk, where dynamic lighting and films highlight Malta’s evolution through its many invaders, wars, and diverse cultures.
The highlight is the island’s first-ever Flying Theatre ride, which gives you the thrilling sensation of flight—similar to Disney’s Soarin’. You’ll feel like you’re soaring over Malta, diving underwater to explore WWII ships and planes, and flying above fireworks displays, rock climbing scenes, and more. Odyssey Malta offers an exciting, educational adventure for visitors of all ages, making it a definite must-visit.
As an added bonus, visitors are taken to the top of the 32nd floor of Mercury Towers—the tallest building in Malta—where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the island. The sweeping vistas offer a stunning perspective of Malta’s coastline and countryside, making for a truly memorable experience.
16. Go to a Beach Club
Malta is packed with a variety of beach clubs catering to different ages and vibes. While the island is known for its lively party scene, there’s something for everyone—from laid-back lounges to energetic hotspots. Some of the most popular beach clubs include Manta, Beef Bar, Toy Room, Café del Mar, MedAsia, and Hugo’s Rooftop. Stay tuned for updates and a full post where I’ll share my personal favorites and opinions on the best beach clubs across the island.
COMING SOON:
The Complete Travel Guide to Gozo
The Complete Restaurant Guide to Malta
The Best Beach Clubs in Malta
The Best Hikes in Malta
