The Ultimate 7-Day Malta Itinerary: History, Beaches, and Culture
Malta is one of those places I hold dear to my heart.
From the minute my foot touched down on this Mediterranean gem, I was captivated.
It’s a land in which history is woven into the fabric of ancient stone, where stretches of beach read like postcards, and where culture becomes bright and bustling.
My first trip to Malta was a blur of sun-soaked adventures, UNESCO sites, and some of the best food I’ve ever eaten.
I wrote this itinerary so you can get the most out of your week in Malta.
So whether you are a history buff, enjoy the beach, or just want a balance of relaxation and exploration, this guide has you.
You will find information on where to go, what to do, and even a couple of insider tips to make sure that you’ll never forget your Maltese adventure.
Day 1: Valletta – Discover Malta’s Capital
Morning
Begin your adventure in Valletta, Malta’s capital city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
“Visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral, a Baroque architectural masterpiece with dazzling gold accents — and Caravaggio’s artwork.
Stroll along narrow streets filled with colorful balconies and stunning views of the harbor.
Afternoon
Go to the Upper Barrakka Gardens for neoclassical views of the Grand Harbor.
At noon, catch the Saluting Battery — it’s a unique historic tradition and fun to watch.
Visit the National Museum of Archaeology to explore Malta’s prehistoric past.
Evening
Dinner at one of Valletta’s rooftop restaurants, such as Panorama, allows you to experience the sunset over the silhouette of the skyline.
Day 2: Mdina and Rabat — The Quiet City and its Neighbor
Morning
Drive or take a bus to Mdina, the walled city also known as the “Silent City.”
Wander its quiet, cobbled streets and pop into St. Paul’s Cathedral to see its awe-inspiring interior.
Look out over the city walls for sweeping views of the Maltese countryside.
Afternoon
Head across the crossroad to Rabat, Mdina’s neighbor, to visit St. Paul’s Catacombs.
These ancient underground burial sites are both eerie and fascinating.
Pick up a pastizzi (a flaky pastry stuffed with ricotta or peas) from a local bakery for a quick snack.
Evening
Relax with a glass of wine at one of Mdina’s wine bars, such as The Medina Restaurant, where the atmosphere is intimate and romantic.
Day 3: Discovering the Tranquil Sister Island: Gozo
Morning
Take the ferry to Gozo, the quieter, greener island.
Your morning can begin at the Citadel in Victoria an ancient fortress providing 360-degree views of the island.
Visit the Ggantija Temples, among the oldest freestanding structures in the world.
Afternoon
Make your way to Ramla Bay, famous for its gorgeous red sand, and chill by the sea.
Visit Ta’ Pinu Basilica, a calming and spiritual place flanked by the countryside.
Evening
Eat in Xlendi Bay, a barely hidden coastal gem. Dine on fresh seafood with the sound of waves as your soundtrack.
Day 4: Comino & The Blue Lagoon
Morning and Afternoon
A day trip to Comino island[link: is a must-see, known for the Blue Lagoon.
The clear turquoise waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on the sand.
Walk the island to the end to explore the rugged terrain and hidden pockets.
Evening
Back in Malta, have a leisurely dinner near Mellieha or Bugibba.
Day 5: Marsaxlokk and the Southern Coast”
Morning
Bay and spend the day in the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk, famous for its colorful traditional boats, called the luzzu.
Stroll the waterfront and browse the weekend Marsaxlokk Market, which sells everything from fresh seafood to local crafts.
Spend a few moments photographing the colorful boats that rock in the water — this is a Mediterranean charm personified in Malta.
Afternoon
It’s about a 30-minute drive to St. Peter’s Pool, a natural swimming hole flanked by dramatic limestone cliffs.
It’s an ideal place for sunbathing, swimming, and attempting the local pastime of cliff-jumping.
Pack water shoes for easier navigation around the rocky edges.
Evening
Head to the Three Cities — Birgu (Vittoriosa), Senglea, and Cospicua.
These historic towns provide a slower, more authentic taste of the Maltese landscape.
Stroll the waterfront promenades, take in the medieval ambiance, and take a seat for dinner at an intimate eatery like Don Berto overlooking the Grand Harbor.
Day 6: Northern Beaches and Majestic Sunsets
Morning
Spent the morning sunbathing at Golden Bay, one of Malta’s most popular beaches.
With its sandy gold shores and crystalline blue water, it’s a good place to lay out, swim, or rent a kayak to explore the coast.
For a quieter option, nearby Gnejna Bay is a more tranquil setting.
Afternoon
Check out Popeye Village — a colorful, quirky movie set from the 1980 film Popeye, featuring Robin Williams.
This delightful attraction is for families or anyone who likes whimsical sights.
Explore the village, have fun, or sit back and appreciate the unique architecture, set against turquoise waters.
Evening
Dingli Cliffs, Valletta: Experience one of Malta’s most magnificent sunsets.
The dramatic cliffs and unending views of the sea provide a magic close to the day.
Bring a picnic or pick up a drink from a nearby café to sip while you watch the sun go down.
Day 7: Last Day in Malta with Ancient Wonders
Morning
On your last day in Malta, make sure to visit its prehistoric treasures: the Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples.
Dating back over 5,000 years, these UNESCO World Heritage Sites sit perched on a hill overlooking the sea.
These ancient ruins with their unique designs and celestial alignments are like walking back in time.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon relaxing at Buskett Gardens, one of Malta’s few wooded areas and a tranquil getaway.
Take a slow walk in the greenery, or if you’re up for a bit of adventure, hit Dingli Cliffs again for a daytime view.
Or, go out to Mdina for a quiet lunch and one final stroll through its evocative streets.
Evening
Back in Valletta or St. Julian’s, enjoy a final memorable dinner.
Pick a rooftop restaurant with harbor views or a cozy trattoria to devour your last Maltese meal.
Look back on the week’s adventures as the city’s lights twinkle and the Mediterranean breeze says goodbye.
