Malta Travel Guide: Your Dream European Island Getaway

 

Tucked between the southern coast of Italy and the northern coast of Africa is one of Europe’s hidden gems: Malta. If you’re looking for the beauty of coastal Italy without all the bustle, this is the European getaway of your dreams. From quaint fishing villages and excellent scuba diving sites to ancient temples and historic military forts, there’s always something to be discovered on this island. When you’re ready to sunbathe and explore, here are some of our favorite hotels, restaurants, and must-dos for Malta travel.

Casa Ellul is the premier boutique hotel in the heart of Malta’s capital, Valletta. Residing in a restored Victorian-era Palazzo, Casa Ellul exudes urban luxury. Each of the nine suites combine classic decor with modern comforts to ensure guests have a relaxing spot to rest. Take a quick stroll to the city’s main attractions, or simply enjoy the view from your balcony.

Enjoy peaceful, countryside quiet at the Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa. Spacious suites offer luxurious bathtubs, sitting rooms and sweeping balcony views. Dine in a historic onsite villa, have a drink by the pool, and enjoy a massage at the Athenaeum Spa. 

The Xara Palace, a luxury boutique hotel by Relais & Châteaux, is the only hotel within the city walls of Malta’s first capital, Mdina. With three onsite restaurants plus private dining options, The Xara Palace has your comfort at top of mind. Sleeping in a palace built for 17th century nobles is just the cherry on top.

For a true resort experience during your Malta travels, the Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz is a must. Located on Gozo, a neighboring island, staying at the Kempinski is a unique opportunity to explore the lesser-known jewels of Malta. This resort is also nestled in the Dwerja Bay, offering some of the best scuba diving in the world.

The Cugó Gran Macina Grand Harbour Hotel puts you in the middle of Valletta’s action, history, and beauty. Guests rave about the view from this hotel’s rooftop terrace, but what’s inside is just as impressive. Live within real fortress walls that mix ancient history, luxury decor, and unobstructed views of the Grand Harbour at this five-star hotel. 

With four locations around Malta and Gozo, one80 is one of the most popular restaurants among tourists and locals alike. Each one80 location offers unique and breathtaking views, and the Italian-inspired menu of shared plates, pasta, and seafood is sure to please a crowd.

Even the Michelin Guide agrees: 59 Republic has earned their prestigious reputation in Malta. You’ll find a classic, elegant interior with fun, tasteful accents while you enjoy unique starters and creative seafood entrees. 

Located in an old bastion built by the Knights of St. John, Rampila offers four unique dining areas including a private dining vault and sweeping terrace. This is more than just a restaurant, it’s an immersive experience of Maltese history (with an extensive wine list and incredible food).

Harbour Club’s menu boasts Mediterranean and French influence curated to highlight the best of Malta. This restaurant offers the best view of Grand Harbour and seasonal menus to ensure fresh, inspiring meals. 

Tucked away on the island of Gozo is Ta’ Frenċ. Set in a restored 14th century farmhouse, the location alone is worth a visit. Top it off with herbs served from their garden and fish right from the Mediterranean sea, and it’s no wonder Ta’ Frenċ earned a spot on the Michelin Guide.

Malta was made for wanderers. The capital city of Valletta has more historic sites within its small square mileage than many major European cities. The original capital city, Mdina, features countless museums of Maltese art, history, and culture. Malta is also rich with military history including the Lascaris War Rooms from World War II as Fort St. Elmo dating back to the 16th century. If you’re staying on the main island, we highly recommend a quick ferry over to the neighboring islands of Gozo and Comino. These islands have lots of ancient temples and caves to explore as well.

Malta has some of the most striking architecture in Europe. The Mosta Dome is incredibly well-preserved and still beautiful as ever. St. John’s Cathedral, however, has been called one of the most beautiful churches in Europe, which is saying something. Historically renowned Roman artist Caravaggio has two masterpieces in this cathedral, making it one of Malta’s most-visited sites. We also recommend a visit to Casa Rocca Piccola, an old home for aristocrats, and a trip to see Auberge de Castille, an old home for the Knights of St. John and where the Prime Minister resides today.

Malta travel isn’t complete without some time spent in the sun. On a day trip to Comino Island, you can’t miss the iconic Blue Lagoon. There’s also incredible cave and reef diving on Comino Island. Grand Harbour is known as one of the most beautiful harbors in Malta, and we highly recommend a daytime or evening cruise to see Valletta from the water. The 20-minute ferry to Gozo runs all year, and you don’t want to miss sites like the Dwerja Bay and remains of the Azure Window. Gozo also has some of the best caves that can be explored by small boat. We also recommend a day trip to Marsaxlokk, a quaint fishing village known for great open-air markets and, of course, seafood.