10 Must-Do Activities for the Ultimate Weekend in Malta

Malta, an archipelago country situated in the central Mediterranean Sea, is a hidden treasure waiting to be explored. Imagine spending a weekend in Malta, where history, culture, and natural beauty come together to create an incredible experience. The islands of Malta, Gozo, and Comino provide a perfect setting for an unforgettable 48 hours.

The combination of ancient sites and lively modern attractions makes Malta a great destination for a weekend getaway. Explore historic cities like Valletta and Mdina, each with stories from centuries ago. You can see the island's rich culture in its well-maintained buildings, lively festivals, and friendly locals.

In the summer, Malta hosts vibrant festivals that showcase music, art, and customs. Visualize yourself enjoying the Mediterranean sunshine on sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters – ideal for swimming or snorkelling. The local food scene is also worth mentioning. Treat yourself to traditional dishes like pastizzi (flaky pastries filled with ricotta or mushy peas) and rabbit stew while sipping on Maltese wine.

A weekend in Malta offers a perfect balance between relaxation and excitement. Whether you're discovering historical landmarks or savouring local delicacies, every moment here will charm you with the island's beauty.

Malta is a treasure trove for Game of Thrones fans. This group of islands served as the background for many memorable scenes from the popular series, giving fans a chance to experience the actual places where their favourite episodes were filmed.

Mdina Gate is one of these iconic spots. As the grand entrance to King's Landing, it played a significant role in numerous important moments throughout the show. The gate itself, located in Malta's ancient capital Mdina, has a medieval charm that easily transports you to the world of Westeros.

View of the Mdina gate.

If you want to explore more about Game of Thrones, make your way to Rabat, another major filming location. The narrow streets and historic buildings of Rabat create an immersive atmosphere that instantly makes you feel like you're in the Seven Kingdoms.

• Mdina Gate: Prominently featured as the entrance to King's Landing.
• Rabat: Discover additional filming locations hidden within this historic town.

Walking around these places, it's amazing to see how Malta's impressive historical architecture was seamlessly incorporated into Game of Thrones. Each location has its own story to tell, combining elements of fantasy and reality that fans shouldn't miss out on. Spending a weekend in Malta exploring these sites is an unforgettable experience for any Game of Thrones enthusiast.

Exploring the Three Cities of Malta is like stepping back in time. Each city has its own charm and historical importance.

Cospicua (Bormla)

Cospicua, also known as Bormla, is famous for its rich maritime history. This city showcases Malta's naval strength with its impressive dockyards and fortifications. Walking along the waterfront, you can almost hear the sounds of shipbuilders from long ago.

Vittoriosa (Birgu)

Vittoriosa, or Birgu, offers an enchanting experience through narrow streets filled with majestic palaces and ancient churches. The Inquisitor's Palace and the Church of St. Lawrence are must-visit landmarks that embody the city’s glorious past. As you wander around Vittoriosa, it's easy to picture knights and nobles strolling along these very paths.

Vittoriosa, easily accessible during your weekend in Malta.

Senglea (Isla)

Senglea, situated on a peninsula, has a nostalgic feel with its historic buildings and breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour. Known locally as Isla, Senglea's fortifications and gardens offer peaceful spots to unwind and soak in the ambiance.

Visiting these cities allows you to truly delve into Malta’s history and admire the magnificent architecture that has endured over time. It's an enriching experience, perfect for a weekend in Malta.

Be Amazed by the Blue Grotto

Located on Malta's rugged southern coast, the Blue Grotto is a stunning set of sea caves that will enchant you with their incredible blue colours. The water in these caves is so clear that it reflects the sunlight, creating a magical display of shimmering colours. Whether you're exploring the caves on a boat tour or standing on the cliffs above, the way the light dances on the water is truly unforgettable.

With this breathtaking view of the Blue Grotto, we can only imagine the beauty of the sea caves.

Relax at Pretty Bay during your weekend in Malta

Just a short drive away is Pretty Bay, one of Malta's most popular beaches known for its soft sand and clear waters. It's the perfect place to soak up some sun and take a refreshing swim. Pretty Bay has everything you need for a comfortable beach day, including sunbeds, umbrellas, and nearby restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try out snorkelling or paddleboarding in the water.

Visiting both of these natural wonders will give you a great balance of excitement and relaxation during your getaway weekend in Malta.

No trip to Malta would be complete without a visit to the Hypogeum of Hal-Saflieni. This underground burial site, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides a captivating insight into prehistoric eras. Dating back to approximately 4000 BC, the Hypogeum stands as one of the world's oldest and best-preserved prehistoric sites.

As you wander through its complex network of chambers, you'll be awestruck by the skilfully carved rock structures and ancient objects that offer a glimpse into early Maltese society. Divided into three levels, each with its own significance:

1. Upper Level: Originally used as a burial ground.
2. Middle Level: Showcasing intricately designed chambers and altars.
3. Lower Level: Home to the renowned Holy of Holies chamber.

Every level unravels unique stories from the past, shedding light on the historical and cultural importance of this site. The Hypogeum's extraordinary acoustics further enhance its allure. Whispers and chants reverberate through its stone corridors in an almost magical manner.

Due to its historical value and delicate condition, only a limited number of visitors are allowed into the Hypogeum each day. It is crucial to book your tickets well in advance to secure a spot. This careful management ensures that future generations can also have the opportunity to explore and admire this remarkable portal into Malta's ancient history.

When you're in Malta, don't miss the chance to try the local food. The island's culinary scene combines Mediterranean flavours with unique Maltese touches. Trying the famous pastizzi is a must-do in Malta. These flaky pastries come with either ricotta cheese or mushy peas filling and can be found in bakeries and street stalls all over the island. Their crunchy crust and tasty filling make them an irresistible snack.

If you're looking for a more substantial meal, go for the traditional rabbit stew (Stuffat tal-Fenek), which is deeply rooted in Maltese culture. This dish features rabbit slow-cooked with wine, garlic, onions, and a variety of herbs until it becomes tender. The result is a delicious and aromatic stew that highlights the island's rustic cooking traditions.

And of course, no meal is complete without a glass of Maltese wine. Malta's warm climate and fertile soil are perfect for producing high-quality wines, especially reds made from local grape varieties like Gellewza and Girgentina. Wineries throughout the island offer tours and tastings, giving you the chance to enjoy these unique wines while discovering the art of winemaking in Malta.

Whether you're grabbing a quick bite of pastizzi during your sightseeing adventures or sitting down to savor a leisurely meal of rabbit stew accompanied by local wine, Maltese cuisine is sure to be a memorable part of your weekend getaway.

St. John's Co-Cathedral is a stunning example of Malta's rich artistic heritage. As soon as you step inside, you'll be amazed by the extravagant Baroque design, which is completely different from the simple exterior. The cathedral is filled with beautifully detailed carvings, gold-covered walls, and exceptional paintings by famous artists like Caravaggio. One of his most renowned pieces, The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist, is displayed here and is a must-see for art lovers. Each chapel in the cathedral showcases the splendour of the Knights of St. John, with marble tombstones on the floor that tell stories of bravery and dedication.

A weekend in Malta is the ideal opportunity to visit the inside of St. John's Cathedral.

A quick stroll from the cathedral will take you to Upper Barrakka Gardens, a peaceful haven overlooking Valletta's busy streets. These stepped gardens provide spectacular views of the Grand Harbour, arguably some of the best sights in Malta. The combination of ancient fortifications against sparkling blue waters is truly awe-inspiring. The gardens themselves are meticulously maintained and feature statues and memorials that enhance their beauty. If you time your visit right, you can also witness the traditional noon-day gun salute from the Saluting Battery below, which pays homage to Malta's military history.

Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Exploring these attractions not only treats your eyes but also offers valuable insights into Malta's past and present. Whether you're here for a day or a weekend in Malta, these experiences will leave you with lasting memories.

Golden Bay is the perfect beach getaway. It is located among rough cliffs, with beautiful golden sands that shine under the Mediterranean sun. Whether you love swimming in clear waters or just lounging on the soft sand with a good book, Golden Bay is the ideal place to relax. The peaceful atmosphere and the soothing sound of waves make it a great spot to unwind and enjoy some Maltese sunshine.

Breathtaking view of Golden Bay.

Moving towards the southeastern part of Malta, you will come across Marsaxlokk Village, famous for its lively fishing culture and charming location. This delightful village gives you an authentic experience of local life. As you walk through the busy market, you can see the colourful luzzus (traditional fishing boats) decorating the harbour like something out of a picture postcard. Don't miss out on trying freshly caught seafood at one of the restaurants by the waterfront, where they serve dishes like octopus stew and grilled swordfish with a local touch. The combination of tasty food and breathtaking views of the harbour makes it a dining experience that you will cherish.

The ancient temples of Mnajdra and Ħaġar Qim are treasures of Malta's prehistoric heritage, standing as some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world. Nestled on the southern coast of Malta, these megalithic wonders offer a captivating glimpse into a past civilisation that existed over 5,000 years ago.

Mnajdra Temples

• Architectural Marvel: The Mnajdra Temples consist of three distinct but connected structures, each showcasing advanced knowledge in building techniques and astronomical alignments. The South Temple, in particular, is aligned with the equinoxes, where sunlight filters through the entrance to illuminate specific points within.
• Spiritual Significance: These temples were likely centres of ritual and spiritual activities. Walking through their stone corridors, you might feel a sense of connection with the ancient worshippers who once gathered here.

Ħaġar Qim, in southern Malta

• Historical Importance: Just a short walk from Mnajdra, Ħaġar Qim stands proudly on a hilltop overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. This temple complex is renowned for its massive limestone slabs and intricately carved altars.
• Unique Finds: Within Ħaġar Qim's sacred confines, archaeologists unearthed remarkable artefacts such as statues depicting fertility goddesses and animal carvings, hinting at the cultural practices and beliefs of Malta's early inhabitants.

Limestone slabs at Ħaġar Qim.

Exploring these ancient sites offers not only an educational experience but also an emotional journey through time. Their preservation provides invaluable insights into human ingenuity and spirituality during prehistoric times.

Taking in the sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea from the dramatic Dingli Cliffs, Malta's highest point, is an experience you must not miss. These cliffs are located on the western coast of the island and provide stunning panoramic views that seem to go on forever. The cliffs drop straight down into the beautiful blue waters below, creating an awe-inspiring sight, especially at sunset when the sky becomes a masterpiece of vibrant colours. Whether you're a photography enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates natural beauty, Dingli Cliffs offer the perfect setting.

A weekend in Malta is the ideal opportunity to visit the Dingli cliffs.

Once you've had your fill of nature's wonders, make your way to the Valletta Waterfront to wrap up your weekend on a high note. This lively promenade is filled with a variety of restaurants, such as the elegant Bistro 516, and the Italian favourite Pastaus, and shops housed in charmingly restored 18th-century warehouses. As you take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, you'll come across talented street performers and be treated to views of magnificent yachts moored in the harbour. It's a great place to savour some local cuisine while observing the world around you.

The Valletta Waterfront isn't just about good food and shopping, though. It also offers insights into Malta's rich maritime history, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and discovery. A weekend in Malta promises a blend of cultural exploration and serene moments by the sea.

Embarking on a boat cruise to Comino Island is like stepping into a paradise of clear waters and untouched natural beauty. This small island, located between Malta and Gozo, is home to the stunning Blue Lagoon, a must-visit for any traveller.

Blue Lagoon on the island of Comino.

Imagine sailing over the bright blue waters as your boat approaches the lagoon, with its shimmering colours inviting you to jump in. The Blue Lagoon's clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or simply floating on your back while enjoying the sun. You might even see some colourful sea creatures below.

For those who like a bit of excitement, renting a kayak or paddleboard offers a unique way to discover the hidden bays and caves around Comino Island. The island itself doesn't have many people living there, so it's great for those who want peace and quiet away from the busy crowds.

• Tip: Arrive early in the day to avoid the peak tourist rush and get a good spot by the water.
• Pro Tip: Bring some food and have a picnic at one of the beautiful spots around the lagoon, but remember to take all your trash with you to keep this paradise clean.

A trip to Comino Island and its Blue Lagoon guarantees an unforgettable experience, combining relaxation with excitement surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

A weekend in Malta offers an unmatched combination of history, culture, and natural beauty. With only 48 hours in Malta, you can plan a schedule that balances exciting exploration with moments of rest.

To make the most of your time, here are some suggestions:

1. Stay Flexible: Leave some room for spontaneity. Whether you're strolling through ancient streets or basking in the sun on pristine beaches, being open to new experiences can enhance your trip.
2. Must-Visit Places: From the historic Three Cities to the magical Blue Grotto and the peaceful Comino Island, each destination offers a special glimpse into Maltese life.
3. Best Time to Go: Choosing to visit during late summer or early spring can help you avoid crowds and have more personal experiences at the island’s attractions.

Enjoy Malta's lively food scene, explore its historical sites, and let the crystal-clear waters amaze you. This small yet captivating group of islands provides endless opportunities to create unforgettable memories in just a weekend.