Malta Island Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Island

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta Island is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Located in the Ċentrali region, this small island is packed with wonders waiting to be discovered.

With its rich history dating back thousands of years, Malta Island is a paradise for history buffs. Explore the ancient city of Mdina, a beautifully preserved medieval town that will transport you back in time. Wander through its narrow streets and marvel at the stunning architecture of its palaces and churches. Don't miss the impressive St. Paul's Cathedral, a masterpiece of Baroque design.

For those seeking a taste of the Mediterranean, Malta Island is a food lover's paradise. Indulge in the island's traditional cuisine, which combines influences from Italy, North Africa, and the Middle East. Sample local delicacies such as pastizzi, flaky pastries filled with ricotta or mushy peas, or try the famous rabbit stew, a hearty dish that is a staple in Maltese households.

Nature lovers will be enchanted by the island's breathtaking landscapes. From the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Grotto to the stunning cliffs of Dingli, Malta Island offers a wealth of outdoor activities. Dive into the vibrant underwater world and explore the colorful coral reefs, or hike through the picturesque countryside and discover hidden coves and secluded beaches.

One of the highlights of Malta Island is its vibrant capital city, Valletta. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a living testament to the island's rich history and architectural beauty. Marvel at the grandeur of St. John's Co-Cathedral, adorned with intricate marble work and Caravaggio's famous masterpiece, "The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist." Take a stroll along the bustling streets and soak up the city's vibrant atmosphere, or relax in one of the charming cafés and watch the world go by.

Alternative names: Area: 94.98 mi²Maximum elevation: 830 ftArchipelago: Maltese islandsCoordinates: 35°53'17"N, 14°26'25"E

Location

ĊentraliMalta

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Malta Island Top Attractions

Malta Island Attractions - What to See and Explore

Malta Island offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Verdala Palace, Malta Aviation Museum, Girgenti Palace, Laferla Cross. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Vernacular architecture • Palace • Reportedly haunted
Verdala Palace
Verdala Palace is a palace in the Buskett Gardens, limits of Siġġiewi, Malta. It was built in 1586 during the reign of Hugues Loubenx de Verdalle, and it now serves as the official summer residence of the President of Malta.
Specialty museum • History museum • Museum
Malta Aviation Museum
Malta Aviation Museum is an aircraft museum situated on the site of the former Royal Air Force airfield in the village of Ta'Qali, on the island of Malta.
Palace
Girgenti Palace
Girgenti Palace is a palace near Siġġiewi, Malta. It was built in 1625 as the summer residence of Malta's inquisitor, and is therefore also known as the Inquisitor's Palace. It is now an official residence of the Prime Minister of Malta.

Temple
Laferla Cross
The Laferla Cross is an early 20th-century religious landmark on the outskirts of Siggiewi, in Malta. It is situated on a hill close to the Chapel of the Annunciation and the Cemetery of Saint Theodore.
Nature • Natural attraction • Cave
Ras id-Dawwara
Ras id-Dawwara is a geographical area on the western coast of the island of Malta, a part of Rabat and on the line of picturesque cliffs including Dingli Cliffs. On site are several caves at sea level.
Archaeological site
Misraħ Għar il-Kbir
Misrah Ghar il-Kbir is a prehistoric site in Siġġiewi, in the south of the Island of Malta, near the Dingli Cliffs. It is best known for its "cart ruts", a complex network of tracks carved in the rock. The age and purpose of the tracks is uncertain.
Church • Forts and castles
Saint George Redoubt
Saint George Redoubt is a redoubt in Birżebbuġa, Malta. It was built in 1714–1716 by the Order of Saint John as one of a series of coastal fortifications around the Maltese Islands, and it got its name from a chapel dedicated to St.
Vernacular architecture • Lighthouse
Delimara Lighthouse
The Delimara Lighthouse is an active lighthouse on the island of Malta. It is the second lighthouse to be built on the Delimara point near Marsaxlokk at the southern end of the island.
Tower
Ħamrija Tower
Ħamrija Tower, originally known as Torre della Pietra Nigra and also known locally as Torri ta' Rsejjen, is a small watchtower in Qrendi, Malta. It was completed in 1659 as the twelfth of the De Redin towers. The tower was restored by Heritage Malta and it is now in good condition.
Forts and castles
Saint Paul's Battery
Saint Paul's Battery, also known as Ta' Lombardi Battery, is an artillery battery in Marsaxlokk, Malta. It stands on high ground at the shoreward end of Delimara Point, above il-Ħofra-z-Zgħira.
Temple
Xrobb l-Għaġin Temple
Xrobb l-Għaġin Temple is a ruined megalithic temple in Xrobb l-Għaġin, limits of Marsaxlokk, Malta. After being identified in 1913, the site was excavated between 1914 and 1915.
Church
St George's Chapel
St George's Chapel or the Church of St George the Martyr, is a small Roman Catholic church located in the village of Birżebbuġa, Malta.
Tower
Madliena Tower
Madliena Tower, originally known as Torre della Paulina, is a small watchtower in Madliena, limits of Pembroke, Malta. It was completed in 1658 as the fourth of the De Redin towers.
Forts and castles
Tal-Bir Redoubt
Tal-Bir Redoubt, also known as Wied Musa Redoubt, is a redoubt in the limits of Mellieħa, Malta. It was built by the Order of Saint John in 1715–1716 as one of a series of coastal fortifications around the Maltese Islands. Today, the redoubt lies in ruins.
Archaeological site
Borġ in-Nadur
Borġ in-Nadur is an archaeological site located in open fields overlooking St George's Bay, near Birżebbuġa, Malta. It is occupied by a Tarxien phase megalithic temple as well as the remains of a Bronze Age village which includes the earliest fortification in Malta.
Tower
Aħrax Tower
Aħrax Tower, originally known as Torre di Lacras, and also known as Armier Tower, Ta' Ħoslien Tower or the White Tower, is a small watchtower overlooking Armier Bay in the limits of Mellieħa, Malta. It was built in 1658 as the sixth of the De Redin towers. An artillery battery was built around it in 1715.
Forts and castles
Qortin Redoubt
Qortin Redoubt, also known as Eskalar Redoubt, is a redoubt in the limits of Mellieħa, Malta. It was built by the Order of Saint John in 1715–1716 as one of a series of coastal fortifications around the Maltese Islands.
Archaeological site
Punic-Roman towers in Malta
The remains of six Punic-Roman towers have been identified in Malta. They are believed to have been built while the island was part of the Punic or Roman Empires.
Forts and castles
Fort Benghisa
Fort Benghisa is a polygonal fort in Birżebbuġa, Malta. It was built between 1910 and 1912 by the British on high ground on the seaward face of Benghisa Point, the southern arm of Marsaxlokk Bay. It is the southernmost fortification in Malta.

Things to See and Do in Malta Island by Category

Sights, interesting and unusual places and attractions valued by most tourists. See the list of places to visit in Malta Island.

Active

Centenary Stadium
Malta Island
Arenas and stadiumsSport venueSport
National Stadium
Malta Island
FootballArenas and stadiumsSport venue
Ċirkewwa
Malta IslandPopular ocean harbor for scuba divers
DivingHarbor

Other categories

Forts and castles Church Tower Archaeological site

Day trips

Malta Island – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Malta Island, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Blue Grotto, Saint John's Co-Cathedral (Valletta), Popeye Village (Mellieħa).

4.7 miS
Caverns in scenic, coastal surrounds
Blue Grotto
Nestled on the coast of the island of Malta, the Blue Grotto is a stunning natural wonder that has captivated visitors for centuries. This complex of sea caves, located near the village of Wied iz-Zurrieq in the southern part of the island, is renowned for its dazzling...
4.1 miE
16th-century high baroque cathedral
Saint John's Co-Cathedral, Valletta
Nestled in the heart of Valletta, Malta's capital city, Saint John's Co-Cathedral stands as a remarkable testament to Baroque architecture and the rich religious heritage of the island. Built between 1572 and 1577, the cathedral was commissioned by the Knights of St.
7.5 miNW
Theme park and former 'Popeye' film set
Popeye Village, Mellieħa
Nestled in the picturesque city of Mellieħa, Malta, Popeye Village holds a special place in the hearts of visitors and film enthusiasts alike. Originally constructed as the film set for the 1980 musical production "Popeye," starring Robin Williams, this charming...
4.2 miS
Ancient temple ruins dating from 3200 BC
Ħaġar Qim, Qrendi
Nestled in the rugged landscape of Qrendi, Malta, the prehistoric temple complex of Ħaġar Qim stands as a testament to the island's rich and enigmatic history. This megalithic site, dating back to approximately 3600-3200 BC, is one of the most remarkable...
6.3 miSE
Theme park, Amusement park
Playmobil Funpark, Żurrieq
The Playmobil FunPark in Żurrieq, Malta, offers a unique adventure for families and children who are fans of the iconic Playmobil toy figures. This park is not just a playground but an interactive experience where children can immerse themselves in a world built...

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Best Time To Visit Malta Island

Learn when is the best time to travel to Malta Island weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

JFMAMJJASOND

June, July and August are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in September.

Average temperatures in °F

JFMAMJJASOND

The highest air temperature is in June, July, August and September. While the coldest is in January, February and March.

Monthly rainfall in inches

JFMAMJJASOND

The lowest rainfall is recorded in July. Most of it rains in December.

Length of day in hours

JFMAMJJASOND

We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Malta Island?

The top attractions to visit in Malta Island are:

What is the best time to visit Malta Island?

June, July and August are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in September. The highest air temperature is in June, July, August and September. While the coldest is in January, February and March.