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Family Guide to...
Malta
An archipelago jewel in the Mediterranean, Malta seduces with its historic walled cities, golden beaches, and a vibrant crossroads culture. Experience 7,000 years of captivating history and sunbaked island bliss.
Magnificent Malta: an island Odyssey
The little archipelago of Malta may be just a speck in the sea (can you even find it on a map?), but it packs enough punch to fill an epic novel. From stories of knights to fortified cities to ancient ruins and mythical folklore, this island nation is a practically an open-air museum. Let’s take a look at what you can do here with kids in a handful of days.
Valletta - The Jewel
This city – the main city in Malta – should be your first stop. It sits on a rocky peninsula between a couple of deep harbors. We easily parked down by one of the harbors and then walked up to the ancient, UNESCO-honored city. Originally built in the 1500s by the Knights of St. John as a fortified stronghold to defend against Ottoman invasions, it almost feels like you’re stepping back in time, especially since they still have some iconic red British-style phone booths dotting the streets. Apparently, the Knights of St. John needed to call back home a lot.
Things to do and see
I think the best thing to do here is wander the streets and get lost. But, it you’re more plan-oriented (read: risk-adverse), here’s a list of pseudo family-friendly things to do, presented to you in three tiers:
Tier 1 (can’t miss):
St. John’s Co-Cathedral – 16th century Baroque masterpiece with a gilded interior. Highlight: two original Caravaggio paintings and a vaulted nave ceiling.
Grand Master’s Palace – Home to Malta’s Parliament and President’s office. It has a cool armory.
Upper Barrakka Gardens – Totally recommended. Not because the television show The Bachelor was just here. Just because it’s a bunch of beautiful gardens.
Casa Rocca Piccola – Go behind the closed doors of nobility in this 16th century private palazzo, still inhabited by a Maltese family. Just don’t go while they’re sleeping. Has WWII bomb shelters and an eerie crypt.
Fort St. Elmo & National War Museum – This star-shaped fortress guards the mouth of Valletta’s Grand Harbor. Another one highly recommended.
Tier 2 (if you have the time and, more importantly, the patience):
Manoel Theater – 1731 theater that’s hosted everything from Italian operas to glittering masquerade balls.
The Malta Experience – a 45-minute 5D show providing an immersive overview of Malta’s 7,000-year history through film, animatronics, and multisensory effects.
Toy Museum – a nostalgic collection of antique playthings and model trains spanning the 1800s-1970s. Extensive doll house and tin soldier collections are standouts.
The Valletta Waterfront – Just beyond the city walls, you can stroll the waterfront promenade and your kids can get ice cream.
Ghost Tours – Older kids and teens may enjoy this nighttime walking tour about Valletta’s paranormal underbelly and other twisted tales.
Tier 3 (the deep cuts, creepy edition):
The Ghost of Fort St. Angelo: Valletta’s oldest fort across the Grand Harbor is said to be haunted by the specter of a Maltese woman murdered by a lustful Knight Crusader. Each night she swishes about in her bloodied white gown seeking vengeance on her attacker.
Il-Maqluba Sinkhole Legend: On Valletta’s outskirts lies a 100 foot wide sinkhole said to have formed when God punished a wicked medieval village by burying it in the ground, sparing only a pious chapel. A morality tale still doled out today!
The Beheading of Saint John: Valletta’s patron saint, John the Baptist’s grisly 1st century beheading is still mourned each year on August 29 with a solemn parade of his sculptural head through the streets.
Our Lady of Liesse: An intriguing Marian shrine tucked within St. John’s Co-Cathedral displays a highly revered (and creepily realistic) 16th century wax effigy of a perfectly preserved baby. Pious devotees offer prayers for fertility and healthy births.
The Cursed Corinthian Column: An ancient Roman granite column languishing in Valletta’s Republic Square is said to curse anyone who dares touch it – one man was tragically killed when it fell on him in 1733!
Valletta Restaurants & Hotels
Noni – This chic Michelin-starred restaurant where the highlights are rabbit confit and local gbejna cheese ravioli.
Legligin – For a quintessentially casual Valletta experience, duck into this cozy stone-vaulted wine cellar for hearty traditional dishes like aljotta (fish soup) and bigilla (fava bean paste). Pair it with a refreshing Girgentina white wine.
Caffe Cordina – This venerable 1837 cafe is a prime people-watching perch along Valletta’s main Republic Street drag. Sip an espresso and nosh on kannoli as the world saunters by its sprawling terrace.
Iniala Harbour House – For an ultra-luxe boutique stay mere steps from Valletta’s key sites, this swank newcomer pampers with its infinity pool vistas, lavish spa, and top-notch dining. Suites from $400.
66 St. Paul’s & Spa – This serene 17th century palazzo turned chic boutique hotel offers a tranquil refuge within the hustle of Valletta. Elegant neutral-hued rooms, a rooftop plunge pool, and spa make it ideal for romance.
Domus Zamittello – You’ll feel like a Knight of St. John bedding down at this posh 17th century palace hotel. Think aristocratic accents like frescoed ceilings, antique furnishings, and a panoramic rooftop terrace. Rates from $200.
Gozo - The isle of calm
So, the main island is small. If you have the time (and you should have the time), take the ferry over to Gozo – an even smaller island. Gozo is a very compact, very rural island that’s quieter and somehow more, say, enigmatic. I mean, there are crazy neolithic ruins and teeny tiny villages here. What’s not to like (other than driving on the crazy roads)?
No village quite captures this old-world ambiance like Gharb. Perched atop one of Gozo’s highest hills, its sun-drenched townscape fans out around the majestic Basilica of the Visitation and iconic Church of Santa Dimitri. Wander the maze of tranquil streets and soak in scenes of local life – neighbors gathered gossiping in the square, farmers herding sheep, and arguably some of the most scenic countryside vistas across all of Malta.
The village of Qala provides access to some of Gozo’s most cherished sites and scenic spots. Nearby Calypso’s Cave is rumored to be the very grotto where the nymph Calypso held Odysseus captive for 7 years in Homer’s Odyssey. While the hilltop citadel of Ġgantija offer crazy-cool vantage points across the lush landscape toward Gozo’s iconic Azure Window (more on that below).
For a taste of traditional village life, Xlendi is your go-to for unhurried living by the sea. This petite seaside hamlet has remained an authentic fishing village at heart, with colorful luzzus (traditional Maltese fishing boats) still lining the picture-perfect bay each morning. Simple seafood eateries and family-run lore dominate the narrow lanes, which spill out onto a small rocky beach and offshore swimming zone immensely popular with locals.
Fun Gozo Facts
Here’s where my daughter insists we share “Five Fun Facts About Gozo.” Ok, fine.
- Gozo has been inhabited since an astonishing 5,000 BC, making it one of the longest continually inhabited islands in the Mediterranean.
- The name “Gozo” is thought to derive from “Gawdez”, the Phoenician word for “joy” or “delight”, perhaps inspired by the island’s scenic beauty. This fact sounds made up.
- According to Homer’s Odyssey, the nymph Calypso imprisoned Odysseus for 7 years on the island of Ogygia – widely believed by scholars to be modern-day Gozo. This is my favorite fact.
- In local legend, the Azure Window natural rock arch was said to be formed when a monstrous sea creature crashed through the cliff. Its iconic limestone frame famously collapsed into the sea in 2017, just before we got there (so you can’t blame it on us!).
- In 1901, over two-thirds of Gozo’s population emigrated in just a few weeks, mainly to seek work opportunities across the Mediterranean and beyond.
Kid-Friendly Adventures on Gozo
Thanks to its small size and abundance of “natural playgrounds” (i.e. vacant plots of dirt), Gozo ranks as an ideal family destination full of enriching yet entertaining activities for youngsters.
Beach Days – Gozo’s calm protected shores offer the perfect setting for little ones to safely frolic in the warm turquoise Mediterranean waters. Stay near the village for easy access to small sandy coves like Ramla Bay and Marsalforn Beach. Or venture to San Blas Bay and Dahlet Qorrot for dramatic red cliff backdrops and crystal-clear swimming holes.
Azure Window Snorkeling – Before its iconic limestone arch collapsed into the sea in 2017 (a day you definitely did not want to be snorkeling there), snorkelers could swim directly through the stunning Azure Window into a secluded cavern lagoon. Today, the spot still offers Gozo’s most dazzling snorkeling and diving grounds teeming with marine life amidst the rugged bay scenery.
Lace Making & Glass Blowing – Get cultural with demonstrations of Gozo’s traditional crafts. Children will (maybe?) enjoy watching skilled artisans create delicate lace from pillow designs and blow whimsical figures from molten glass. This kind of activity is beyond my patience.
Citadel Exploring – The towering fortified citadels of Victoria/Rabat provide the perfect setting for kids to imagine brave knights and buccaneers. Wander the winding mediaeval lanes and lookout points where local lore features ghosts roaming these battlements. This activity is more of my speed.
Dwerja Inland Sea – Accessible only via an ancient tunnel, this landlocked sea serves up prime swimming and kayaking inside a dazzling limestone cave basin. Let little adventurers paddle into this sunlit grotto for a “journey to the center of the island” they’ll never forget! Honestly, my biggest regret on our trip is not doing this.
Malta Inland Sea Tour – To truly appreciate Gozo’s rugged coastal scenery and hear all the great myths and legends, book a scenic boat tour navigating the island’s sea caves and iconic formations like the Azure Window, Fungus Rock, and more.
Ġgantija Temples – One of Malta’s UNESCO Wonders, these massive stone temples predate both the Egyptian Pyramids and England’s Stonehenge as some of the world’s oldest existing ruins. Dating back over 5,000 years, these weathered megalithic blocks were already ancient ritual sites when the Pyramids were constructed. Take time to ponder the eerie spiral carvings and chilling echoes here. My biggest regret is skipping this when we were there.
Popeye's village - The Tourist Trap
I have a secret to tell you. This is why we flew all the way to Malta. A silly, made-up village constructed for a movie that I didn’t even like much growing up (but my older sisters adored). It was a weird nostalgia driving my (poor, per usual) decisions. It was an unusual experience all around.
So, on the North side of Malta’s main island lies this bizarre village. The signs aren’t great getting you there, so you might unexpectedly take the rental car off road and get into a fight about navigation with your spouse. But I digress. Originally constructed as an elaborate film set for the 1980 live-action musical “Popeye”, this ramshackle (emphasis added) seaside hamlet of rustic wooden huts, watchtowers, and winding stairways lives on today as a quirky theme park attraction channeling the spirit of the iconic, yet, for me, unwatchable cartoon.
5 Fun Facts About Popeye's Village
My daughter is helping me out here, thus, please enjoy these, sigh, fun facts about Popeye’s Village:
- Over 20 million dollars was spent to construct the village’s eccentrically rustic buildings and amenities solely for use as a film set back in 1979. But, as far as I can tell, not a single dollar more to maintain it! Zinger!
- The entire production facility included a water supply network, oven bakeries, wood workshops, and living facilities to accommodate 165 cast & crew members.
- After filming wrapped, the entire village set was purchased to serve as a show business-themed park and event venue. Obviously.
- Nearly 25% of all Malta’s male population technically holds the job title of “Popeye” after being cast as extras for crowd scenes. This doesn’t make sense and I don’t think this is true.
- Each of the wooden buildings features unique architectural details like mismatched windows, tilting walls, and gravity-defying attachments to emulate the surreal style of Segar’s cartoons. Sure.
And, because the above five facts weren’t enough(!), my daughter insists we now add “Three Funny Popeye Village Facts.” Dear god.
- The filming wrapped in 1980, but the producers decided to leave the plastic Christmas decorations up for decades to maintain the oddball movie set atmosphere. Funny?
- One of the village “buildings” is literally just a wooden facade propped up against a sea wall. Avoiding that “backstage” vista earns bonus points! Funny??
- For years there was a “Mixed Pickle Tours” business operating out of the gift shop area. The name alone should be enough to trigger chuckles. Who came up with these funny facts?
Mdina - The Silent City
Everything in Malta feels like you’re stepping back in time. But Mdina really feels that way. I had no idea this place existed and, thus, it was a delightful surprise.
This was Malta’s former capital and really its most captivating medieval city. High up a rocky plateau with good views of the island, this ancient walled town has barely changed in over 1,000 years (says someone I talked to who saw it 1,000 years ago). From its Byzantine and Norman roots to its striking mix of Medieval and Baroque architecture, Mdina invites you to get lost in its windy streets that feel like the Universal Studios backlot.
Mdina Highlights
Mdina Gate – The grand main entrance to the city is a sight to behold, with its elegant Baroque portal design and Greek-inscribed plaque above the archway.
St. Paul’s Cathedral – This opulent Baroque masterpiece dates back to the 12th century and is said to stand on the site of a former Roman governor’s villa where St. Paul himself resided after his shipwreck on Malta!
Cathedral Museum – Adjoining the cathedral, this treasure trove showcases a dazzling collection of religious artworks, alabaster sculptures, and the original silver and gold coins minted by the Knights of Malta.
Palazzo Falson (Norman House) – This opulent 13th century palace turned museum is a must for history buffs, with its lavish Period furnishings, antique collections, and ornate courtyard garden.
Bastion Square – For a prime panoramic view over the island, head to this scenic stone terrace along the city walls in the southwest corner of Mdina.
Palazzo Vilhena (Museum of Natural History) – Marvel at the diverse geological formations and ecosystems of the Maltese Islands showcased within this Magisterial Palace dating back to 1726.
Carmelite Priory – Built in 1659, this sprawling Baroque church and monastery complex includes a tranquil cloister garden, crypts, and a fine religious art museum. Don’t miss the creepy display of mummified monks!
Mdina Dining & Accommodations
When it comes time to refuel and rest your weary feet, Mdina offers an array of refined culinary and accommodation options befitting its noble pedigree:
The Medina Restaurant – Dine like Mdina’s aristocratic residents of yore in this romantic stone-vaulted restaurant dishing out elegant Mediterranean fare and fine vintages. The succulent stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew) is a must.
Fontanella Tea Garden – Perched atop the city’s ramparts, this charming cafe is famed for its mouthwatering selection of Mdina Cakes, teas, and unbeatable views over the island from the bougainvillea-draped terrace.
Coogi’s – For a cozier local vibe, duck into this rustic eatery for hearty Maltese staples like aljotta (fish soup), ravjul (ricotta dumplings), and traditional pizzas from the wood-fired oven.
Xara Palace Relais & Châteaux – Live out your aristocratic fantasies at this sumptuous 17th century palazzo turned exclusive hotel (the only one within Mdina’s walls), complete with its own starred restaurant and luxuriant decor. Rates from $700.
Point de Vue – For a more intimate boutique stay just outside Mdina’s walls, this stylish guesthouse offers chic teal-accented rooms and suites with namesake panoramic views of the medieval city.
The Chophouse Terrace – If staying in the walled city isn’t feasible, its posh neighboring town of Rabat has enticing options like this upscale steak and grill restaurant with 12 elegant guest rooms on-site.
5 Fun Mdina Facts
Now, here are “5 Fun Facts About Mdina” because my daughter said so.
- Mdina has been inhabited since at least the 8th century BC, making it one of Europe’s oldest cities.
- The city was once known as “Citta Notabile” or “The Noble City” due to its prestige as home to Malta’s most aristocratic families.
- With a mere 300 residents in the walled city today, Mdina upholds a strict no cars policy to preserve its tranquil atmosphere (except for a limited number of service vehicles and emergency cars). And, yet, I was almost hit by one. Go figure.
- Mdina’s lamp-lit streets and eerie quiet earned it the nickname of “The Silent City,” especially enchanting after dark.
- The popular dessert of chocolate cakes and sweet pastries known as “Mdina Cakes” were first created here by the resident nuns.
Fun Historical Timeline of Malta
Sieges, invasions, and marauding, oh my!
- 5000 BC – Neolithic fishing settlements inhabit the area
- 218 BC – Ancient Romans conquer Malta, establishing the town of Melita
- 870 AD – Arab forces seize Malta, ushering in 300 years of Arab rule and cultural influence
- 1090s – Maltese-Sicilian crusaders liberate Malta from the Arabs
- 1530 – Holy Roman Emperor Charles V grants Malta to the Knights of St. John
- 1565 – The Great Siege of Malta where the Knights valiantly fought off Ottoman invaders
- 1566 – Jean de la Vallette establishes the new capital of Valletta, designed as an impregnable fortress city
- 1798 – Napoleon invades Malta, ending the Knights’ reign and French occupation begins
- 1800 – Malta becomes a British Protectorate after the Maltese revolt ejects the French
- 1869 – The Suez Canal opens, boosting Malta’s strategic importance and prosperity
- 1922 – Malta achieves limited self-governance from Britain
- 1942 – WWII sees Malta relentlessly bombed by Axis powers in a horrific siege. The island is awarded the George Cross for bravery.
- 1964 – Malta gains independence from Britain, remaining a Commonwealth nation
- 1974 – Malta becomes an independent republic
- 1980 – Valletta earns UNESCO World Heritage status for its historical and architectural significance
- 2004 – Malta joins the European Union
- 2018 – Valletta hosts the title of European Capital of Culture with citywide celebrations.
In Conclusion...
You should go. You really should. We’ve been a lot of places are there really is nothing like Malta. From its exotic and long history to the warm waters to the truly crazy driving. It’s an adventure you’ll remember forever.
FAQ's
What are the Main Things to do with Kids in Malta?
Malta is a lovely Mediterranean island nation that offers plenty of fun activities for kids. Here are some of the main things to do with kids in Malta:
1. Beaches: Malta has some beautiful beaches perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and building sandcastles. Some popular family-friendly beaches include Golden Bay, Mellieha Bay, and Ghadira Bay.
2. Popeye Village: This quirky attraction is a film set village made for the 1980 musical production of Popeye. Kids can explore the colorful wooden buildings, boats, and play areas.
3. Malta National Aquarium: Located in Qawra, this aquarium houses sharks, rays, and a variety of Mediterranean marine life. It’s a great educational experience for kids.
4. Splash & Fun Water Parks: Malta has a few water parks like Splash & Fun and Whiteknuckles Water Parks which offer slides, pools, and water play areas.
5. Mdina: The old fortified city of Mdina is like stepping back in time. Kids can wander the peaceful, carless streets and enjoy the medieval architecture.
6. Malta Classic Car Museum: Car enthusiasts of all ages will enjoy this museum showcasing vintage cars, motorcycles, and more.
7. Boat Tours: Take a boat tour around the harbor areas of Valletta and the Grand Harbour to see Malta from the water.
8. Prehistoric Sites: Malta has several UNESCO sites like the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum and Ġgantija Temples to explore its ancient history.
With its mix of beaches, historic sites, and kid-friendly attractions, Malta makes for a fun and educational family destination.
What is Malta Famous for?
Malta is famous for several things:
1. Historic Sites and Architecture
– Malta has an incredibly rich history dating back thousands of years. It is home to some of the oldest freestanding structures in the world, including the Ġgantija Temples and Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, which are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
– The capital city Valletta is renowned for its stunning baroque architecture and fortified walls built by the Knights of St. John.
2. Strategic Location
– Malta’s location in the Mediterranean Sea between Sicily and the North African coast gave it great strategic importance over the centuries. It was ruled by various powers like the Phoenicians, Romans, Moors, Knights of St. John, French, and British.
– During World War II, Malta played a crucial role in the Allied war efforts and its people were awarded the George Cross for heroism and devotion.
3. Diving and Snorkeling
– With its clear warm waters, numerous reefs, caves, and shipwrecks, Malta is considered one of the top diving destinations in the Mediterranean.
– Some of the most famous dive sites include the Blue Hole, the HMS Maori shipwreck, and the Santa Maria caves.
4. Religious Significance
– Malta is considered one of the most religiously devoted countries in Europe, with Catholicism being the predominant faith.
– The island is home to numerous churches, chapels, and cathedrals, including the impressive St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta.
5. Megalithic Temples
– Malta’s prehistoric temples like Ġgantija, Ħaġar Qim, and Mnajdra are remarkable feats of ancient architecture and among the oldest religious sites on Earth.
So in many ways, Malta punches above its weight in terms of historical and cultural attractions for such a small island nation.
What power plug type does Malta use?
Malta uses the Europlug (Type C) electrical outlet, which is the standard plug type used in most European countries.
The Europlug has two round parallel prongs and is 230V. It is compatible with the following plug types:
– Type C: The standard Europlug with two round prongs
– Type E: The German/French plug with two round prongs and a grounding clip
– Type F: The German/French schuko plug with two round prongs and two grounding clips
– Type L: The Italian plug with three round prongs (the third is a grounding prong)
So if you are traveling to Malta from the United States, Canada, United Kingdom or another country that uses different plug types, you will need to bring a travel adapter to fit the Europlug sockets found in Malta.
Many hotels and rental accommodations in Malta provide dual voltage outlets which accept both the Europlug and other common plug types like UK’s Type G. But it’s still advisable to carry a universal travel adapter to cover all your charging needs during your stay in Malta.
Is Malta safe?
Yes, Malta is generally considered a very safe travel destination. Here are some key points about safety in Malta:
Low Crime Rates
– Malta has extremely low rates of violent crime, with virtually no instances of terrorism, kidnapping or major criminal activity aimed at tourists.
– Petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur in crowded areas like Valletta, but are not prevalent.
Stable Politics
– Malta is a stable parliamentary democracy and an EU member state, with no major conflicts or civil unrest.
Safe for Solo Travelers
– Malta is regarded as one of the safest places for solo travelers, including solo female travelers who take normal precautions.
Low Risk Areas
– Most tourist areas like Valletta, Sliema, St. Julian’s, and the major resort towns are very safe day and night.
Hazards and Scams
– The biggest hazards are heat/sunstroke in summer, rocky beach paths, and occasional travel scams. Normal precautions apply.
– Malta has no major issues with violent crime, drugging, harassment or hate crimes against tourists.
However, it’s always advisable to exercise normal safety precautions as you would anywhere – avoid isolated areas at night, don’t carry excessive cash/valuables, and stay alert on buses and in crowds.
Overall, Malta ranks very highly on global safety indices. With some basic common sense, travelers can feel very secure exploring all that this Mediterranean island has to offer.
What are the best Malta holiday packages for families
Here are some of the best Malta holiday packages and options for families:
1. All-Inclusive Resort Packages
Hotels like db Seabank Resort & Spa and Dolmen Resort Hotel offer great all-inclusive packages perfect for families. These include accommodations, meals, kids’ clubs, pools, activities and entertainment.
2. Villa Rentals with Pool
Renting a private villa with a pool can be an excellent family option in Malta. Companies like Malta Luxury Rent and Villio offer villas in popular areas like Mellieha and St. Julian’s.
3. Hotel + Attractions Packages
Several hotels bundle accommodations with tickets to top attractions like Popeye Village, aquariums and boat tours. The Radisson Golden Sands Resort & Spa has packages like this.
4. Multi-City/Island Hopping Packages
For a diverse experience, packages combining stays in different cities like Valletta and Gozo island are available from tour operators like Maltauncovered and Naples & Malta Travels.
5. Cruise Packages
Major cruise lines like MSC Cruises and Costa Cruises offer Mediterranean itineraries with stops in Malta, letting you experience the island along with other destinations.
6. Guided Tour Packages
Companies like Engaging Vacations provide guided multi-day Malta tour packages which include accommodations, transportation, tours and meals for hassle-free family trips.
No matter which option you choose, it’s recommended to book well in advance, especially for summer travel, to get the best rates and availability for your preferred Malta family vacation.
What are the top 5 unmissable tours to experience in Malta?
Here are the top 5 unmissable tours to experience in Malta:
1. Valletta Walking Tour
Explore the historic capital city of Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful baroque architecture and rich history. A guided walking tour allows you to see highlights like St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Grand Master’s Palace, the Upper Barrakka Gardens, and learn about the city’s role in the Great Siege of 1565.
2. Mdina and Rabat Tour
Step back in time by visiting the medieval fortified city of Mdina and the nearby Rabat. Mdina’s quiet, gilded streets and impressive baroque cathedral make you feel like you’re in a living museum. In Rabat, explore the catacombs and St. Paul’s Grotto where the apostle is said to have taken shelter.
3. Gozo Island Tour
Take a day trip or stay overnight on the lovely sister island of Gozo. Tours typically visit the Ggantija Temples (one of the world’s oldest freestanding structures), the Calypso Cave, the Inland Sea, and the photogenic Azure Window (now collapsed but still stunning).
4. Boat Tour of the Grand Harbour
See Malta’s most impressive harbors and creeks from the water on a boat tour of the Grand Harbour. Cruise past the historic Three Cities of Vittoriosa, Cospicua, and Senglea, as well as forts and yacht marinas while learning about Malta’s maritime heritage.
5. Prehistoric Temples Tour
Malta is home to several remarkable megalithic temple complexes that predate the Egyptian pyramids. A guided tour of sites like Hagar Qim, Mnajdra, and the Hypogeum necropolis provides fascinating insight into the island’s prehistoric culture and architecture.
No matter which tours you choose, having a knowledgeable local guide really enhances the experience and brings Malta’s rich history to life.
What are the best budget-friendly hotels in Malta for a cozy stay?
Here are some of the best budget-friendly hotels in Malta that offer a cozy and comfortable stay without breaking the bank:
1.115 The Strand Hotel & Suites (Sliema)
This 3-star hotel is right on the Sliema promenade and has simple but modern rooms, some with sea views. Rates start around €50-70 per night.
2. British Hotel (Valletta)
A charming family-run boutique hotel in the heart of Valletta with traditional Maltese decor. Rooms are small but cozy starting around €60 per night.
3. Sunny Coast Resort Club (Qawra)
An affordable aparthotel option near the beach in Qawra. Studios and apartments with kitchenettes from €50-90 per night.
4. Plaza Regency Hotels (Sliema)
Budget-friendly 3-star hotels located on the Sliema seafront. Clean rooms with rates from €55-80 per night.
5. Mavina Holiday Complex (Mellieha)
Simple self-catering apartments perfect for families, located in the quieter Mellieha area from €50-80 per night.
6. Luciana Hotel (Marsascala)
A relaxed 3-star hotel in the fishing village of Marsascala with rates around €60 per night including breakfast.
7. Porto Azzurro Hotel (Xlendi, Gozo)
For a cozy stay in Gozo, this family-run seafront hotel in Xlendi offers rooms from €50-70 per night.
While not luxurious, these hotels get great reviews for their friendly service, cleanliness and excellent value for money in Malta. Book well in advance for the best deals.
How can you enjoy a budget-friendly holiday in Malta without skimping on the fun?
Here are some tips to enjoy a budget-friendly holiday in Malta without missing out on the fun:
1. Visit in Shoulder Season
Travel during spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) when hotels, flights, and activities are cheaper than peak summer.
2. Stay in Marsaskala or Mellieha
These smaller coastal towns offer cheaper accommodation options compared to popular Sliema or St. Julian’s.
3. Use Public Transportation
Malta has an inexpensive public bus system to get around the islands easily without renting a car.
4. Pack Snacks/Meals
With so many picturesque spots, packing snacks and meals can save you money compared to eating out for every meal.
5. Visit Free Attractions
Many of Malta’s top sights like Valletta, the Three Cities, and beaches are free to explore on your own.
6. Take Advantage of City Passes
The CitySightseeing Malta Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour provides routed access to top attractions at a discount.
7. Book Tours Wisely
While pricey, taking just one guided tour like to Hagar Qim or Gozo can be very worthwhile for the insights.
8. Enjoy Free Entertainment
Malta hosts free events like the Isle of MTV music concert and village festas with food and fireworks.
9. Stay at a Farmhouse
Renting an agritourism farmhouse in the countryside can be very affordable for groups/families.
10. Buy the Malta Discount Card
This prepaid card provides admission discounts at various attractions and establishments.
With some smart planning for transportation, accommodations, and mixing free and paid activities, you can absolutely have an amazing Malta vacation on a budget!
