Malta, an island country situated in the middle of the Mediterranean, is a wonderful destination. The islands of Malta, Gozo, and Comino, along with their temples and clean beaches, have a long history and culture. Malta is distinguished by its blend of Arabic and Italian flavours and crystal-clear water, making it a paradise for all sorts of travellers. Whether you’re looking for ancient ruins, quiet beaches or hiking adventures, Malta promises to give you an unforgettable experience. The beautiful places to visit in Malta, each with its own unique highlight, will make your next trip a cherished memory for life.
Top 10 Places To Visit In Malta
The places to visit in Malta are diverse in beauty and experience. Explore the mesmerising tourist attractions with this detailed list below.
1. Blue Lagoon
Photo: Nick Fewings / Unsplash
The Blue Lagoon, halfway between the islands of Malta and Comino, is one of the most romantic places in the Mediterranean. The lagoon is known for its azure-coloured water, making it ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing. The small sandy beach of the Blue Lagoon can get very crowded in the summer, but one can get a taste of the quiet life here by exploring the surrounding cliffs or taking a boat trip. It has calm waters and lots of marine species to suit snorkelers and divers. The Blue Lagoon is a must-visit for anyone seeking a quiet relaxation destination.
Location: Comino, Malta
2. Golden Bay
Photo: Paul Sebastian Saliba / Unsplash
Golden Bay on the northwest coast of Malta is famous for its beach, and it is among the most beautiful on the island. The coast is framed by a hill and limestone cliffs, allowing for a quiet setting for sunbathing, swimming, and viewing the amazing landscape. The secluded waters make it an excellent destination for families and swimmers, and the region is ideal for hiking and exploration. Whether you want to sit back and relax or get involved in water sports, Golden Bay is for everyone.
Location: Island of Malta, Malta
3. Hagar Qim Temples
The Hagar Qim Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are found on Malta’s south coast and are among Europe’s most significant prehistoric sites. The temples date to around 3000 BC and are famous for their massive megaliths. The remains provide an insight into ancient Malta’s culture through its distinctive stone carvings and architecture. You can visit the temples and find out more about the old Maltese who constructed them, as well as the religious and cultural traditions of the era. For those who love ancient history and architecture, the Hagar Qim Temples are a must-see place.
Location: Triq Hagar Qim, Qrendi, Island of Malta QRD 2501, Malta
4. The Island Of Gozo
Gozo, the second-largest island in the Maltese archipelago, is a beautiful escape from the busy main island of Malta. With its green landscape, golden beaches and ancient sites, Gozo is a peaceful destination. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ggantija Temples, constructed around 3500 BC, or the island’s medieval Citadel in the capital, Victoria. Gozo is also famous for its beautiful beaches, such as Ramla Bay, where you can lounge on the golden sands and take a swim in crystal-clear waters. Be it hiking or simply enjoying the outdoors, Gozo is the place for those looking for a little rest and relaxation.
Location: Island of Gozo, Malta
5. The Parish Church Of Mellieha
Photo: Bent Van Aeken / Unsplash
The Parish Church of Our Lady of Victory, or Parish Church of Mellieha, is a beautiful Baroque building. The church is in the little village of Mellieha and is dedicated to Malta’s patron saint, Our Lady of Victory. It is renowned for its beautiful interior, adorned by paintings by local artists, such as the one depicting St Paul’s Shipwreck by Giuseppe Cali. The church also hosts the Mellieha Village Festa, a celebratory evening full of fireworks, music and traditional Maltese procession. Visiting the church is also an ideal way to learn more about the island’s religious culture.
Location: Mellieha Village, Mellieha, Island of Malta, Malta
6. St. John’s Co-Cathedral
The St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta is one of Malta’s most significant monuments. The Baroque masterpiece, built in 1573-77, features exquisite art and architecture, including the painter Caravaggio’s masterpiece. The cathedral itself was built by the Knights of St John, the former kings of Malta. It is open to the public for tours of its stunning interior, its carved chapels and gold altars, and the two masterpieces of Caravaggio, The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist and Saint Jerome Writing. The cathedral is not only a place of worship but also a centre of cultural activity.
Location: St. John Street, Valletta, Island of Malta, Malta
7. Popeye Village
Photo: Lachcim Kejarko / Pexels
Popeye Village, conceived as the film set for the 1980 musical Popeye, has become a tourist attraction. The village is located in Anchor Bay Mellieha, which makes it an excellent family destination. You get to meet characters like Popeye, Olive Oyl, and Bluto and take part in all the cool stuff like boat rides, water trampolines, and Popeye Comic Museum. The picturesque village is placed against a staggering backdrop of turquoise water, making it enjoyable as well as visually interesting. Popeye Village makes for a fun day out for any visitor, whether you are there to see the shows or tour the set.
Location: Anchor Bay, Mellieha, Island of Malta MLH4808, Malta
8. The Tarxien Temples
Photo: Joonas L. / Wikimedia Commons
Tarxien Temples in southern Malta are another ancient prehistoric monument dating back to around 3000 BC. The temples are known for their intricate stonework and the remains of altars and sculptures depicting the island’s prehistoric religious customs. The Tarxien Temples offer a fascinating glimpse into the ancient world of Malta and are one of the island’s most significant archaeological sites. It allows you to walk through the temples and witness the earliest practices and religion of the Maltese people.
Location: Neolithic Temples Street, Tarxien, Island of Malta, Malta
9. The Mnajdra Temples
Photo: Silar / Wikimedia Commons
The Mnajdra Temples, off the south coast of Malta, are among the island’s most ancient and significant archaeological sites. These Neolithic temples, dating back to around 3600 BC, are now part of the UNESCO-listed Hagar Qim complex. These temples line up with the sun at solstices and equinoxes and are exciting sites for archaeologists and visitors alike. Mnajdra Temples are located on a dramatic mountaintop and are viewed from the Mediterranean Sea. The Mnajdra Temples are a must-see for any history buff or anyone interested in Malta’s medieval past.
Location: Triq Hagar Qim, Qrendi, Island of Malta QRD 2501, Malta
10. St. Agatha’s Tower
Photo: BoneA / Wikimedia Commons
St Agatha’s Tower, also known as the Red Tower, stands on the Marfa Ridge in northern Malta. Built in 1649, this old watchtower overlooks Gozo, Comino and the nearby Ghadira Nature Reserve. The tower was built to protect Malta from piracy and is one of the island’s best-preserved towers. Its red colour makes it easy to recognise, and its elevated location gives visitors fantastic views of the region. It is possible to explore the inside of the tower and walk on the paths in silence by the tourists.
Location: Mosta Road, St. Paul’s Bay, Island of Malta SPB 3418, Malta
The places to visit in Malta are the epitome of nature, history and culture. From the temples of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra to the green sandy beaches of Gozo and the Blue Lagoon, Malta is something for everyone. Whether you are looking for its historical heritage, sunbathing or immersing yourself in its culture, Malta will be your trip of a lifetime. Let TripXL create the best itinerary for you to visit these great destinations.
Cover Photo: Michaela / Pexels