Malta is an independent island, settled in the Mediterranean Sea off the southern coast of Sicily and truly encompasses a Mediterranean paradise dream. The small country consists of 3 different islands, 2 of which are inhabited. Historians believe that people have called Malta home since 5200 B.C. and that definitely shines through on a visit. Having a 3 day itinerary for Malta is ample enough time to see the best of what this tiny country has to offer.
Here’s 3 Days in Malta – A Complete Itinerary:
Getting There
Malta can be reached via many direct flights from various European destinations. I flew in on RyanAir into Valletta, departing from Frankfurt-Hahn. As with every trip, I opted for renting a car. This allowed me to get to our accommodation easily while also getting the opportunity to explore on my own throughout the island. There is public transportation in Malta but we hear it’s not reliable.
Accommodations for Malta
With many adorable towns throughout the country of Malta, finding a spot to stay can be overwhelming. We chose Xemxija, mainly because it was in close proximity to the main things I wanted to see. Other popular options are in Valetta and on Gozo Island.
Our AirBnb was an adorable condo overlooking St. Paul’s Bay. All of the AirBnb options in Malta are very reasonable, especially in the off-season. I would highly recommend utilizing their services over a hotel.
Day 1 in Malta
Coming out of the winter season, most people want to head right to the beach. Although the water was still pretty chilly in May, the weather was ideal because it wasn’t blistering hot.
Beach Time at Mellieha Bay
For the first activity, spend some of the day at Malta’s longest sandy beach. Also known as Ghadira Bay, this area has many cafe’s, restaurants and even a beach stand walking distance. Chairs and umbrellas are also available to rent and the views around the inlet of Malta are outstanding.
Lunch at the Munchy Monkey
After soaking up some sun, head back towards Xemxija and snag some lunch at the Munchy Monkey. This pizzeria grille is located at the heart of St. Paul’s Bay. We loved this place so much that we returned here for dinner on our second night!
Explore the Xemxija Heritage Trail
For the adventurous part of your day, head uphill from the Munchy Monkey to the Xemxija Heritage Trail. A quieter and hidden part of Xemxija, this place is definitely one of a kind.
Explore the caves dating back to 4000 BC. and learn about the ancient shrines, apiaries, burial sites and Roman bath houses on site. After making it to the top, enjoy some stunning panoramic views of surrounding Malta.
Visit Popeye’s Village
After that hike and a quick freshen up, drive up to Mellieha to visit a place called Popeye’s Village. This was where the Paramount Pictures movie “Popeye” was filmed. As it’s often closed for private events, drive up the road for an aerial view of the colorful little village.
Dinner at Agliolio
By the time you’re done soaking in those views, head around 10 minutes south for dinner. Down the road off the beaten path is the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa with the classiest restaurant called Agliolio. With the most serene views over the Mediterranean enjoy some Bistecca di Bue while drinking on Prosecco to really cap off your evening.
Day 2
Breakfast at Xemxija Cafe
This little cafe with morning views of St. Paul’s Bay is the perfect place for breakfast. The Xemxija Cafe Lounge offers various options but I was happy to find some American options like scrambled eggs and toast.
A Day Trip to Comino Island
Spend the day on a boat tour over to Comino Island. This little uninhabited slice of heaven is a popular day-trip spot for people in Malta. The Sea Adventure Company offers full day tours for a reasonable price. For an 8 hour day, you can sail over to the island in 30 minutes, eat a buffet-style lunch and even drink beer and wine while on the boat.
Take a Boat Tour of the Sea Caves
While on the way to Comino, the guides should offer an additional boat ride around the island for only 10 Euro. This will probably be one of the best parts of your time here. Floating into smaller lagoons only accessible by boat is definitely a cool way to see the island of Malta up close.
Swim in the Blue Lagoon
After lunch on the boat, take a dip in to the pristine teal waters. While it’s the most popular beach area in Malta, it’s definitely also the prettiest!
Once that excursion is over and you’re back in Xemxija, check out the Zeus Greek Restaurant for dinner. You won’t regret it!
Day 3
Take a Ferry to Gozo
On the final day of the trip to Malta, take a ferry over to the only other inhabited island, Gozo. Ferries leave from the Cirkewwa port every 45 minutes and at a reasonably low price. After about 30 minutes floating along the rich blue water, you’ll arrive at the port in Mgarr.
Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour
For the easiest way to navigate around Gozo Island, buy tickets for the Hop On Hop Off bus tour at the ferry station. The price is reasonable once again and you have the ability to stop at various locations throughout the island. With buses arriving around every 15 minutes, the map and the schedule is all you’ll need on your day on Gozo Island.
The Azure Window
It was here in Gozo that we were able to visit the Azure Window, a plaec that I had been dreaming about for years. The area’s cascading cliffs with constant crashing waves have shaped out one of the most gorgeous areas in all of Malta.
**UPDATE: In May 2017, the Azure Window in Malta devastatingly crumbled in a storm. All that remains is the right side of the cliff.
Exploring the Rest of Gozo
On the tour you can stop at many different beaches, dip your toes in the water and continue on to another gem. If I were to return to Malta, I’d love to get an AirBnb on this island and spend more time there.
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Hi there!
Really enjoyed your post! I actually live in Malta and loved hearing the story knowing exactly the areas you are talking about etc.. I just moved here in April so haven’t been here super long… but you are right! It is a Mediterranean Gem and it’s beautiful!
xx-Steph
Aw, that’s so amazing! I loved that country so much. It was absolutely beautiful and the locals were incredibly friendly! Made me feel like a home away from home. I hope you’re loving it there! Do you live on the main island? What an amazing experience to call Malta home!
I am from Texas but have been here for almost a year. Yes, I live on the main island in Swieqi, which is close to St.Julians or Sliema area if you remember passing through those areas. I love it here. It’s simply amazing!
How incredible! I’m so envious; Malta is unbelievable to visit I can’t even imagine living there. It felt like a slow-paced lifestyle in paradise, I adored everything about it. I hope you continue to love it and have an amazing time living there!
The water there looks amazing, and so do the beaches. Got to keep it in mind for a place to visit one day. Thanks Charli!
Yes, definitely do! And it’s really reasonable price-wise, great for on a budget. You’re welcome Paolo, hope you get a chance to visit!