Day 1: Arrive in Valletta
Valletta is your starting point in Malta. It’s the capital city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so there’s plenty to see.
Start by visiting St. John’s Co-Cathedral. It’s one of the most stunning churches in Europe, and its understated exterior hides a lavish interior. The painted ceiling and Caravaggio’s famous painting, “The Beheading of St. John the Baptist,” will leave you speechless.
Afterward, walk to the Upper Barrakka Gardens to enjoy panoramic views of the Grand Harbour. You’ll get some perspective on the island’s important maritime history here. Stick around for the Saluting Battery cannon firing at noon.
In the afternoon, explore the Grandmaster’s Palace. Today, it’s the office of the President, but it was once the residence of the leaders of the Knights of St. John. It offers a lot of insight into Malta’s history.
End the day by walking around Valletta’s narrow streets. The historic architecture, charming shops, and outdoor cafes are perfect for an evening stroll. For dinner, stop by one of the waterfront restaurants near the harbor.
Day 2: Discover the Three Cities
Cross the Grand Harbour and visit the Three Cities: Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua.
Start with Birgu, also known as Vittoriosa. Visit Fort St. Angelo, which played a key role during the Great Siege of 1565.
Walk through the narrow streets of Birgu and don’t miss the Inquisitor’s Palace. It’s a museum now that tells the story of the Inquisition in Malta.
In Senglea, head to the Gardjola Gardens. The lookout tower here offers spectacular views of Valletta across the water.
Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Cospicua. It’s more residential and quieter compared to the other two cities, but that makes it perfect for slowing down.
In the evening, take the ferry back to Valletta. For dinner, check out Ta’ Nenu, known for excellent ftira (Maltese pizza).
Day 3: Explore Mdina and Rabat
Today, head inland to the ancient city of Mdina, known as the “Silent City.” This walled city was Malta’s capital until the medieval period, and walking through its narrow, winding streets feels like stepping back in time.
Visit St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Mdina Dungeons. Both give you a sense of the deep history lurking beneath the city.
Right next to Mdina is Rabat. Visit St. Paul’s Catacombs here, a network of underground burial grounds dating back to Roman times. It’s an eerie but fascinating experience.
End your day with a visit to the nearby Dingli Cliffs, the highest point in Malta. The cliffs drop dramatically into the sea, and it’s a perfect spot to relax for sunset.
For dinner, consider heading back into Mdina and eating at Fontanella Tea Garden which overlooks great views of the island. Their cakes are pretty popular among both locals and travelers.
Day 4: Day Trip to Gozo
Today, take the ferry to the smaller island of Gozo. It’s quieter and more relaxed compared to the main island, but it still offers plenty to do.
Start by visiting the Ggantija Temples, one of the world’s oldest freestanding stone structures. They date back to around 3600 BC—older than the Pyramids of Egypt.
Next, head to Victoria, Gozo’s capital. Visit the Citadel here, which offers excellent panoramic views over the whole island. The village square is perfect for grabbing a coffee and watching life go by.
Spend the afternoon by the coast. The Azure Window is no longer standing, but the natural beauty of the area around Dwejra Bay is still worth exploring. You can also visit the nearby Inland Sea or take a boat trip into the caves.
For dinner, stay on Gozo and try Ta’ Rikardu, a family-run restaurant famous for its Gozitan cheese and rabbit stew.
Take a ferry back to Malta in the evening.
Day 5: Beaches and Blue Lagoon
Get ready for a more relaxing day by visiting one of Malta’s famous beaches. Your first stop should be Golden Bay or Ghajn Tuffieha, two of the most stunning beaches on the island. They’re perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
In the afternoon, make your way to the Cirkewwa ferry terminal, where you can hop on a boat for a trip to the Blue Lagoon on Comino. The crystal clear waters are perfect for snorkeling or even just a relaxing swim.
Comino is small and undeveloped, so it’s great if you’re looking to escape the crowds. Stay until late afternoon and enjoy a peaceful boat ride back.
In the evening, return to the mainland and head to Mellieha for dinner. Rebekah’s is a nice spot serving up seasonal Maltese cuisine.
Day 6: Marsaxlokk and the South Coast
In the morning, visit Marsaxlokk, a traditional fishing village, famous for its colorful luzzu boats. If you’re here on Sunday, don’t miss the fish market.
Walk along the harbor and take in the serene atmosphere. Grab a seafood lunch at one of the restaurants by the water. Tartarun is well-known for its fresh dishes.
Afterward, head to St. Peter’s Pool, a natural swimming pool with clear waters. It’s a great place for a quiet afternoon, and perfect if you like jumping off cliffs into the sea.
On your way back, you can also stop by the Blue Grotto for a quick boat tour through gorgeous sea caves.
Head back to Valletta for the night, and if you’re up for more seafood, try Guzé Bistro for a great end to the day.
Day 7: Sliema and St. Julian’s
End your trip with a day in Sliema and St. Julian’s. These two towns are connected along one coastal promenade, making them great for a casual walk with plenty of cafes and restaurants along the way.
Start in Sliema, where you can check out The Point shopping mall if you feel like grabbing some last-minute souvenirs or just enjoying a coffee by the sea.
Continue walking until you reach St. Julian’s. If you’re into nightlife, this is the spot to be. Even during the day, it’s vibrant, with plenty of waterfront restaurants.
If you’re feeling adventurous, go for a swim at nearby St. George’s Bay. It’s popular but still a good place to relax.
Finish your day with dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area. Zeri’s is an excellent choice for a final meal in Malta, offering Mediterranean dishes with amazing views.
Final Thoughts
This 7-day itinerary gives you a solid mix of history, culture, and relaxation. But it’s flexible, so you can make adjustments based on your pace. Malta is compact, so you won’t feel rushed; instead, you’ll have the time to enjoy the island at your own rhythm. Happy travels!
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