valletta harbour boat tours

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• Valletta Harbour Cruise

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valletta harbour cruise

Tour the best natural harbours on the island.

What an amazing experience to see two natural harbours of Marsamxett and the Grand Harbour surrounded by magnificent fortifications cruising in every creek with a detailed running commentary about Malta's history of Valletta and the Three Cities of L'Isla, Birgu and Bormal.

Most of the fortifications were built by the Knights of St. John to withstand the Ottoman Empire and the British forces to withstand the World War ll airial attacks.

An incredible perspective at sea level to see these massive limestone fortifications and their cities within and surrounding including the present harbour activities of our time.

Disclaimer: On our website, you will find affiliate links from which we receive a small commission.

What You Need To Know About The Tour

• Valletta Harbour Cruise Malta Tickets
• What You Will See On Tour
• Why Go On Tour
• What Can You Do During The Tour

Find tickets for the Valletta Harbour Cruise Malta

>Availability and Tickets

• You can find information about the tour, including pricing and availability, here .

Quick Info About The Tour

• The tour around the ports is 1 hour 30 minutes long.
• Departure and return from the same location at Sliema Ferries.

What Is Included

• The Valletta Harbour cruise

When Do Tours take place?

For better clarification check in the booking calendar while booking.

• Cruises happen daily all throughout the year.

Secure payments guaranteed

Enter 'maltainfoguide' in coupon box to get 5% discount. eTicket (mobile ticket) is available.

What You Will See On The Tour

Cruise around the natural ports where you see the towns of Gzira, Ta’ Xbiex, Msida with the marina along the beach. The Marina, around the Valletta bastions and Lower Barakka Gardens.

On the other side of the harbour the historical Three Cities of L'Isla (Citta Invicta) better known as Senglea, Birgu (Citta' Vittoriose) and Bormla (Citta' Cospicual). All names give by the Knights of St. John. Here lies Fort St. Angelo today a massive fort that was enlarged by the Knights of St John even more fortified after the great siege.

On the Marsamxett port side see the island in the middle with a large imposing fortification named for the Grand Master Manoel de Vilhema who financed its building.

The Valletta fortification completely surrounding the capital are imposingly visible from both ports.

Why Go On The Tour

• An unforgettable experience touring unique natural harbours that influenced the history of Malta and of Europe.
• A short tour which can be easily incorporated with your holiday schedule.
• Embarcation from a very central location of the Sliema Ferries which is reachable by public transport very easily.
• The opportunity to learn about the mighty and heroic history of the Maltese and the powers who where here from time to time.
• Malta in the centre of the Mediterranean Sea was always part of much bigger importance to their conquerors. Although small Malta was part of the Mediterranean history that shaded this region.  

A Little History On The Ports

These natural ports have been attractive to many mariners and conqueror due to their natural sheltered creaks.

The Great Siege of 1565

This brought with it the biggest siege of 1565 where the KNights of ST. John were attacked by the mighty Ottoman Empire with the intension of destroying the knights and taking over these islands that are very strategically located to then attack Europe. For three months the knights and Maltese endured the siege but finally won.

The Battles of World War II

At the time the Maltese islands were under British rule. German and Italian air forces heavily bombarded the harbour areas and the surrounding towns. They had the intension of destroying the British military power where they kept the battleships and the dockyard within the harbour creaks. Many damaged vessels used to come from different part of the Mediterranean to be repaired.

In the first stages of the war the British army heavily armed the port area with many antiaircraft concrete bunkers to withstand the assault.    

The Maltese endured all this and where they showed great courage where Malta was awarded the George Cross by King George VI.

More to know

Should I buy the tickets in advance? Yes why not. It is better to have them in hand since this particular cruise is very popular and tickets are sold very quickly especially in high season. It is better to have the tickets in hand than go to the boat and remain disappointed.

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Welcome to Grand Harbour Tours - Malta

Take a trip around the three cities and the valletta grand harbour.

Have you ever been on the traditional Maltese boat before? If not you have come to the right place.

The Barklor Cooperative offers Tours around Malta's Grand Harbour and the Three Cities, where you can enjoy the view of several attractions within the Maltese Boat.

Enjoy the view and the company of the friendly boat men on the traditional Maltese boat

There are many ways you can enjoy our Boats, you can either take the Grand Harbour Tour which will take you to the Three Cities and Valletta's Grand Harbour or you might use our services to cross from one cultural city to another. We also cater for special occasions.

Harbour Tours Malta

What do we offer?

Harbour tours.

We can take you on a trip around Malta's Grand Harbour area, where you can see St.Angelo's Fortress, Lower and Upper Barakka Gardens and many other attractions from on our traditional Maltese boat.

Water Taxis

If you happen to be in either Valletta, Senglea or Cospicua, you can book a traditional boat to take you to any of these beautiful cities.

Special Occasions

We also cater for special occasions such as engagements, weddings and holy communions. The grand harbour views seen when on the Maltese dghajsa, will make your occasion one to remember.

Want to know more?

Booking office phone (+356) 27805278.

Valletta’s Grand Harbour

Home / All Excursions   /   Valletta’s Grand Harbour

Grand Harbour Cruise

• All around the Grand Harbour
• Cruising into all creeks to admire forts, fortified walls & battlements
• Boat cruise around the Grand Harbour

The Valletta harbour cruise will be a truly memorable experience for you.

The Grand Harbour between Malta’s Capital City Valletta and the Three Cities of Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua is aptly named. It is grand in every way. There are certainly other fortified harbours around the Mediterranean, but none reach the majesty or provoke as much awe as Grand Harbour with Valletta it’s towering glory and the lovely Three Cities. What better way to admire its seemingly endless fortifications and baroque and medieval architecture, than onboard a ferry cruising on its deep waters and many creeks.

Malta’s fortifications are considered to be the best examples of military architecture anywhere in the world.

Here are some expert comments on the fortifications surrounding the Valletta Grand Harbour:

“the most powerful artificial fortress in the world.” Major General Whitworth Porter of the Royal Engineers .

“for sheer concentration and majesty quite unmatched.” British architect Quentin Hughes.

“nowhere in the world are fortifications more extensive, more impressive, more outstanding than they are in Malta.” Judge and historian Giovanni Bonello.

The splendour of Valletta and the Grand Harbour attracts hundreds of cruise liners making the Valletta cruise port schedule full all year round. These sleek cruise liners make for an impressive sight as they sit along- side the towering bastions; old and new side by side. On this cruise you’ll be taken into all the creeks to admire the forts and battlements and along the towering walls that surround Valletta and the three cities as well as cruising Marsamxetto Harbour between Valletta and Sliema. A Grand Harbour cruise will be a truly memorable experience for you and one that you’ll never forget.

If you are a lone traveller, you can choose to book a Hop-on Hop-off bus for both Malta & Gozo with us. Click here to view details and to book your ticket.

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We're sorry, but we currently do not have any upcoming excursions for: Grand Harbour Cruise .

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Valletta Grand Harbour Cruises – Tickets, Prices & Reviews

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Home » Malta Tours and Excursions » Malta boat trips

Malta Boat Trips & Tours: The 12 Best Options

Looking for the best Malta boat trips and tours for your holiday?

In this guide, you’ll find an up-to-date, tried-and-tested list of different boat tours and trips to explore Malta, Gozo, and Comino Island (and its famous Blue Lagoon).

I’m a tourist-turned-local and have taken dozens of excursions and boat tours, including the ones on this list. My goal is to help you have a memorable stay in Malta, and I only make recommendations with that goal in mind.

Blue Lagoon Boat Tours

The stunning Blue Lagoon is located on the small Comino Island and is Malta’s most popular tourist attraction by a mile and a top destination for tours and excursions . It’s a real gem in the Mediterranean Sea.

Famous for its azure-coloured, crystal-clear waters, it’s an absolutely stunning bay that’s visited by thousands of locals and tourists on various boat tours every year.

It’s a must-visit on most people’s travel plans to explore Malta, and while you *can* get there by ferry, it’s a LOT more comfortable taking a boat trip there. The bay itself only has a very small sandy beach that’s usually packed with people who are there on day trips. In fact, although more expensive, a private boat is the way to go (and I’ve included a great recommendation further below from personal experience).

Blue Lagoon boat tour

• From €25 p.p.
• Couples, families with kids, small groups

This Blue Lagoon full-day tour departs from Buġibba (although you can book transport from other locations in Malta). They take you straight to Comino’s Blue Lagoon, passing by St. Paul’s islands on the way. You’ll also stop at the lesser-known Crystal Lagoon Malta and some of Comino’s sea caves on the way back.

COUPON: Get a discount with the coupon code MALTA5 .

There are a few options to choose from:

• Hopping on the larger catamaran for the day trip. This catamaran has slides and underwater windows, making it a great option for families with kids. This tour takes around 6-7 hours.
• Hopping on the same catamaran but in the late afternoon for a sunset cruise . This tour takes around 4 hours and would be my personal recommendation . The Blue Lagoon gets VERY busy during the day in the high season, so it’s a great way to enjoy this magical spot at a much quieter time when most of the other tour operators would’ve sailed back to Malta for the day.
• Taking the smaller catamaran, the Sea Odyssey , which also gives you a full-day trip with a morning departure time.

Both boats provide seating and sunbeds and an indoor, air-conditioned area with a small kiosk to buy food and drinks from. There are separate male and female toilets on board as well.

During your stay, you don’t have to stay on the boat. You can also wander around some of the coastal and country trails that the small island of Comino has to offer. It’s something I would only recommend in spring and autumn, however, since there’s very little opportunity to find shade on the island.

Catamaran boat tour

• Sliema / Buġibba
• From €65 p.p.
• Couples, small groups

Catamaran 1 (Sliema): This Catamaran Cruise (full-day tour) offers a laidback cruise to Comino and, unlike the next option, is all-inclusive with an open bar (beer, wine, soft drinks, water) and a cold buffet lunch (cold cuts, cheeses, salads, and seasonal fruit).

You’ll be hopping on a large and spacious catamaran (with fewer people than the standard trips) that sails to Comino. While the Blue Lagoon is the main destination, you’ll cruise past other parts of the island on the way, including some of its hidden coves.

Catamaran 2 (Buġibba): If you’d like to combine a visit to the Blue Lagoon at Comino Island with swimming at some of Malta’s most beautiful bays, the Beaches and Bays tour is a great option.

Although a little more expensive, this Beaches and Bays boat tour by catamaran has two big benefits over the first option.

• It’s a lot more spacious and comfortable, with spaced-out, comfortable sunbeds on the boat’s sun deck, chill music, and an (optional) BBQ lunch on board.
• You get enough time at the Blue Lagoon but also get to swim at other beautiful bays on the main island’s northern coast, for example, (my personal favourite) Għajn Tuffieħa Bay and Golden Bay. ( Note: Actual bays visited can differ depending on the wind direction.). A stop at the Crystal Lagoon is also included.

Available from May through to September, I highly recommend going for this option if you’re travelling as a couple or with a group of couples. This is currently one of the best Malta boat tours you can book.

TIP: The lunch is worth the upgrade, and drinks on board are reasonably priced.

Two-Master Boat from Sliema

• From €75 p.p.

If you’re staying in Sliema and want a full-day boat tour of Comino’s famous Blue Lagoon, this two-master boat tour is a great option.

Enjoying a laid-back vibe on an impressive 38-metre-long wooden Turkish Gullet boat, it’s a popular choice for a day out at sea. The tour departs from the Sliema Ferries front, which is very convenient if you’re staying in Sliema, Gżira, or nearby St. Julian’s. That spot is easy to reach on foot or by bus. You can also get transfers to other localities when booking this option (which comes at an additional fee).

What’s included in this boat tour:

• Free drinks during the entire cruise (water, soft drinks, wine and beer)
• Hot and cold buffet lunch including steak, a selection of vegetables, cold meat cuts, different salad varieties and fresh fruit to suit different dietary requirements.

Aside from the obvious destination (the Blue Lagoon), you’ll also anchor at a few secluded bays near Gozo. And on the way, you get great views of the capital city Valletta, St. Julian’s, St Paul’s Bay (and St. Paul’s island), and Mellieħa Bay while sipping a drink.

The tour starts at 9:15 am and returns at Sliema by 5 pm, making it a 7-hour and 45-minute trip.

Private boat tours to the Blue Lagoon

Interested in a more quiet and private experience at your own pace?

Private boat tours can be a great option, where you can rent your private boat for a few hours, half a day or a full day. It’ll be just you and your company, plus the captain on board, and you can moor away from the most crowded parts of the bay to enjoy the crystal-clear waters at Comino.

The departure location can be chosen from various locations along the North coast of Malta as well as Gozo, so you have a lot of flexibility. For example, you can customise the itinerary to spend a little less time at the busy Blue Lagoon and head over to the stunning – and much quieter – Crystal Lagoon nearby.

Snorkelling equipment to explore the nearby marine life is provided, and there’s an ice cooler on board for your drinks. You can ask the captain to stop at different spots for food or bring your own food if you prefer.

This provider specialises in this type of boat tour to the Blue Lagoon, and they’re an easy recommendation to make from personal experience . With a highly customisable trip plan, friendly skippers and an overall hassle-free experience, this is just what you want on a well-deserved holiday.

This type of boat tour is in high demand and has limited availability. Book well in advance to avoid missing out!

Sunset private boat

• Ċirkewwa or Mġarr Harbour (Gozo)

This is a 3-hour private boat trip at the perfect time of day and long enough to enjoy a quieter visit on your own boat

Half-day private boat

Also a 3-hour private boat, but during the morning or afternoon (which you can choose).

Full-day private boat

Rent a private boat for a full 6 hours, with a custom itinerary and everything you’d expect on your day out.

Gozo and Comino combo boat tours

If you’re planning on visiting Gozo (you absolutely should, even if it’s just for half a day!), these are a few full-day boat tours to consider

You can combine a visit to Comino and its Blue Lagoon with a land tour of Gozo in a single (easy-paced) day. It’s a great way to get a taste of both, with enough time to enjoy the experience and not feel like a rushed day out.

Blue Lagoon & Gozo Tuk Tuk Sunset Tour

• Anywhere in Malta
• From €79 p.p.

This (all-inclusive!) Blue Lagoon and Gozo Tuk Tuk tour runs from mid-May to mid-October and is great for both couples and groups.

It’s a full day out (6-7 hours excluding transport) and is provided by a renowned Malta tour operator that consistently gets 5/5 reviews—a fun day out in safe hands.

This is also a great option if you don’t like early morning wake-ups on your holiday. The tour starts in the early afternoon!

You’ll start off with a visit and swim at the Blue Lagoon on a boat tour there that departs from Ċirkewwa, in the northernmost part of Malta. Don’t worry; transfers from your place of stay are included in the tour, so all you need is to prepare for your day and be at the pick-up point on time!

The brightly-coloured Tuk Tuks that will take you around in Gozo can seat up to six passengers and are driven by a local expert who will tell you all about the island on the way.

Included in the price:

• Transport from your place of stay (anywhere in Malta or Gozo)
• 2+ Hours at Comino’s Crystal and Blue Lagoons by boat
• A light traditional Gozitan dinner
• A sightseeing tour of Gozo on 6-seater Tuk-Tuks, chauffeured by a knowledgeable driver who will take you to some of the most beautiful sights on the island. This tour takes you to Sanap Cliffs (Munxar), Xlendi Bay, Cliffs and Caves, Dwejra Bay (including Fungus Rock, Inland Sea & Watch Tower), Ta’ Pinu Basilica and Shrine (Għarb), Wied il-Għasri, Xwejni Salt Pans, Qbajjar and Marsalforn Bay.

TIP: During the rest of the year, you can still get a regular Tuk Tuk tour of Gozo , combined with a boat tour past Comino and its main sights, but you won’t be able to enjoy a swim stop at the Blue Lagoon. (It’s a little too cold for that anyway outside the high season.)

Blue Lagoon & Gozo Quad Bike Sunset Tour

• From €110 p.p.

Looking for a bit more adventure? Taking a Quad Bike tour of Gozo allows you to see some of the island’s stunning natural beauty, landmarks and secluded beaches, and makes for a fun day out.

You can get an all-inclusive Sunset Tour by Quad Bike of Gozo , which starts with a boat tour that includes a refreshing swim stop at the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon. This tour runs between 15th May and 15th October.

It also takes you past a few of the sea caves around the beautiful Comino Island on the way to Mġarr Harbour.

There, you’ll be welcomed by your lead driver, who knows Gozo inside out and will tell you all about the stops on the way. They’ll take you through a safety briefing and provide everything you need to hop on your quad bike first.

These quad bikes are high-powered 570cc ATV vehicles that can seat a driver (min. 21 years of age) and a passenger. It’s a unique combo tour, perfect for couples and small groups.

Just like the Tuk-Tuk version of this tour, this is included in the price:

• 2+ Hours at Comino’s Crystal Lagoon and Blue Lagoons by boat
• A light traditional Gozitan lunch
• A sightseeing tour of Gozo, on quad bikes, following a lead driver to some of the most stunning landmarks and into nature, off the beaten path. This tour takes you to: The Church of St. John The Baptist (Xewkija), Sanap Cliffs (Munxar), Xlendi Bay, Cliffs and Belvedere, Knights’ Wash houses (Fontana), Dwejra Bay and its watchtower, Fungus Rock and Inland Sea (San Lawrenz), Wied il-Mielah Window (Gharb), Wied il-Ghasri, Xwejni Salt Pans, Qbajjar (and the stunning salt pans), Marsalforn Bay, and Tal-Mixta cave (Nadur).

TIP: Just like the Tuk Tuk variety, you can get a regular Quad bike tour of Gozo outside of the summer season, which is also a lot of fun. You’ll also get a short boat trip that takes you past the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon but won’t include a (swim) stop.

Blue Lagoon & Gozo combo

• From €30 p.p.

If you prefer having a wander around Gozo yourself, you can take this low-cost boat tour that also combines a stop at the Blue Lagoon with 3 hours of free exploration in Gozo.

What you’re paying for is half a day in Comino and transport to spend the afternoon on Malta’s sister island. There are plenty of options for transport once you arrive at Mġarr Harbour in Gozo, from hop-on/hop-off buses to regular public transport, Ubers/taxis as well as bike rental.

You can also opt to book transport in advance, which will take you to either Victoria (the largest town and home to the Citadel of Gozo) or Xlendi (a picturesque bay in the South of the island).

This is an option to consider, but I would personally recommend either of the previous two options .

Round Malta & Gozo boat tours (full day)

Round malta cruise (full day).

Being a small island nation, part of Malta’s charm and natural beauty is its surrounding sea.

Hopping on a boat tour is a great way to tour Malta along its impressive coastline while relaxing in the sun.

This Round Malta Cruise is a well-reviewed full-day tour (10 am – 4:45 pm on Tuesdays and Fridays ) that takes you all around the island. Heading clockwise around Malta, you’ll depart from Sliema to take in the sights of Valletta and its Grand Harbour entrance, Marsascala and St. Thomas Bay, St. Peter’s Pool (bay), Marsaxlokk and Delimara Point, the Blue Grotto (more on that spot below), Dingli Cliffs, Anchor Bay and Popeye Village (named after the 1980 movie with Robin Williams that was shot there).

You’ll then head to Comino and its Blue Lagoon, followed by Mellieħa Bay, St. Paul’s Bay and its island, St. Julian’s and returning to Sliema. Throughout the trip, you’ll be provided with commentary on the various spots you’ll be passing from.

Included in this tour:

• A well-catered buffet lunch, including free drinks (water/soft drinks)
• Free bottled water during the tour
• Optional: Transport to/from your place of stay.

Round Gozo Cruise (full day)

• From €70 p.p.

Malta’s sister island is known for its natural beauty, and this trip is a great way to view some of Gozo’s magnificent bays on the sea.

This Round Gozo Cruise tour boat sails from Sliema, past Comino and onto several of Gozo’s bays, with a route depending on weather conditions. Stops often included are the stunning Dwejra Bay (southwestern coast) as well as Ramla Bay and other, more secluded beaches in the North of Gozo.

Valletta Harbour Cruise

If you’d like to explore Valletta’s harbours specifically, you can hop on one of the most popular Malta boat tours: The Harbour Cruise .

This Valletta harbour cruise tour takes you around the two natural harbours on either side of Valletta: Grand Harbour (on the side of The Three Cities and the Valletta Waterfront) and Marsamxett Harbour (on the side of Sliema). With a trip time of around 90 minutes, you can get guided commentary in English and German while taking in the views.

These cruises depart from Sliema Ferries (Valletta-facing seafront) three times a day: At 10.30 am, 11.40 am and 12 pm. There’s a stop along the way at Kalkara (near the Three Cities) where you can get off to explore the Esplora Interactive Science Center (great for kids) and hop back on at the next departure time. (Applicable only to the first two trips of the day).

(More info here: Valletta harbour cruise tours .)

Blue Grotto Boat Tour

The Blue Grotto sea cave , with beautiful rock formations, is one of Malta’s most popular destinations because of its natural beauty. Because the sea floor inside is covered in light-coloured sand, the sunlight that shines into the cave reflects on its ceiling, creating a stunning effect.

Since it’s a little remote (in the South of Malta), it’s a destination best combined with another, and a great combiner is to stop at Marsaxlokk.

This half day Blue Grotto and Marsaxlokk tour makes this combination very easy to do and is held on Sundays. Apart from getting a boat tour into the Blue Grotto cave, you’ll head to the fishing village of Marsaxlokk to take in the views and visit the Sunday market.

• Solo travellers, couples

Interested in getting a unique experience in Malta’s nightlife scene in summer? Take a Boat Party for a really awesome night out.

You’ll depart from Sliema (Valletta-facing side) at around 18:30h, boarding a large wooden gullet (type of boat). As the sun sets, you’ll be enjoying some great music and dance, drink in hand and cooling down with the sea breeze. You’ll be back in Sliema at around midnight, but you can join the afterparty in the nearby Paceville area of St. Julian’s.

More info here: Malta boat parties .

• Open bar with spirits, beers and soft drinks
• DJ and great music
• Jump and swim in the sea at one of the stops on the way
• Games on board.

Boat Tours to Sicily

Mt. etna and taormina.

With this Malta to Sicily day trip , you can take a large catamaran that sails from Valletta to the port of Pozzallo in Sicily. Once you arrive, you’ll board an air-conditioned coach that will be taking you around some of the best places on the island.

This trip is organised on Thursdays and Sundays from May to September, and on your trip you’ll visit sites including:

• The beautiful seaside town of Taormina
• Mount Etna – Europe’s largest and most active volcano.

Syracuse, Marzamemi and Noto

Alternatively, you can take this Malta to Sicily trip that takes you to the beautiful villages of Syracuse, Marzamemi and Noto. This is a quieter tour package option, with a lot less time on the road and with more rural views and small village visits to Sicily.

Organised on Wednesdays and Fridays (also from May to September), this option also takes you across to Sicily on a large catamaran.

Where do you get the boat to the Blue Lagoon in Malta?

You can get the boat to the Blue Lagoon in Malta from Marfa or Ċirkewwa (basic ferry, long drive), or you can get a boat trip from Sliema (easy to reach from St. Julian’s and Valletta) or Buġibba (within walking distance from St. Paul’s Bay and Qawra).

What are the best boat trips in Malta?

The best boat trips in Malta are cruises around the islands of Malta and Gozo, the Blue Grotto in the South of Malta, and the Blue and Crystal Lagoons on Comino Island.

Edward is the Founder and Editor of Malta Uncovered and author of two guidebooks on Malta and Valletta.

As a tourist-turned-expat with Maltese roots, he knows the islands inside out and helps thousands of visitors enjoy a memorable trip every year.

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What Is Malta Famous For?

By Daniel James Clarke

Last updated: June 28th, 2024

• Find a Cruise

Given its pocket-sized form, the answers to the question “what is Malta famous for?” are surprisingly substantial. This resplendent Mediterranean island might be best known as one of Europe’s smallest countries, but zoom in on the map and you’ll soon see that its dimensions are deceptive. Malta and little sisters Gozo and Comino pack in plenty.

Inhabited since 5,900 BC, Malta’s most important archaeological sites retain an air of mystery, adding a legendary status to UNESCO-listed megalithic monuments. Then there are the islands’ world-renowned Mediterranean credentials, the cinema-worthy coastline, ancient citadels—both of which have found further fame on the silver screen—and prominent wine production dating back to the Phoenicians.

To discover what Malta is known for, you’ll want to peel back its layers as you travel between its two main islands, stroll its history-defining landmarks, and swim in some of Europe’s clearest, warmest waters.

Valletta & The Grand Harbour

The Grand Harbour, Valletta

Perhaps more than anything, Malta is famous for its golden-hued, sea-flanked, and seriously storied capital city, Valletta .

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980, on account of the city being “one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world”, you need only take a few steps in any direction to stumble upon another of the city’s palatial complexes or 16th-century constructions. This is an impressive feat for the European Union’s smallest capital city.

Founded in 1566 by the Knights of St. John, Valletta was always destined to be an impressive and culture-stacked Renaissance city.

Still holding true centuries later, the Grandmaster’s Palace, now the residence of Malta’s president, retains the jaw-dropping frescoes that portray the Great Siege of Malta. This was when the Ottoman Empire tried and failed over four months to seize control of the island.

St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Valletta

Spanning out from the palace are numerous more renowned architectural achievements. Step inside the 16th-century St. John’s Co-Cathedral to witness an ornate edifice housing Caravaggio’s grisly, grand, and world-renowned painting depicting “The Beheading of St John the Baptist.”

Tour the noble rooms of the late 16th-century Casa Rocca Piccola. And admire the contemporary twist of the City Gate, now regarded as a cutting-edge reimagination of a half-a-millennium-old entranceway.

Upper Barrakka Gardens, Valletta

Equally as important are Valetta’s bastions. One of the highlights of the city walls is the Upper Barrakka Gardens, a grandiose space of archways, water features, and military might created in 1661.

Overlooking the Grand Harbour, it’s a spectacular setting worth visiting at noon to hear the firing of the cannon or to marvel at the “Three Cities” of Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua across the water.

Better still, hop on a traditional dgħajsa tal-pass taxi boat and sail across the famous harbor to see all the signature limestone buildings that make the trio of facing cities the stuff of travel legends.

Sunshine & Blissful Beaches

Malta boasts more than 300 days of sunshine annually and its climate is a major foundation of its fame as one of the best beach destinations in Europe .

With the sun seemingly always shining, one of the most obvious answers to what is Malta known for is its tempting shoreline and transparent waters. Whether you’re seeking animated bays backed by lively bars, remote stretches ideal for coastal ambles, or want to embark on a cliff-hugging adventure by kayak, there’s a beloved beach with your name on it.

Fomm Ir-Rih

On Malta’s main island, you’ll struggle not to be seduced by the sweeping butterscotch sand at Golden Bay or the more secluded Fomm Ir-Rih, a teeny bay accessible by hiking or kayak. On Gozo, terracotta-hued Ramla Bay is regarded as one of Malta’s finest.

Yet, many would argue that Malta’s best beaches are on lesser-developed Comino Island, the smallest inhabited isle of the Maltese archipelago. Here, you’ll find some of the most crystal-clear cyan waters imaginable, and while there is a bounty of dazzling beaches, it’s the sensational Blue Lagoon that has become Malta’s most famous swimming zone.

Craggy Cliffs & a Captivating Coastline

The coastlines of Malta and its sleepy little sister, Gozo, are rich in fame-worthy vistas. Just north of Gozo’s Dwejra Bay, the Blue Hole, a natural rock formation that plunges to depths of 52 feet, is a popular site for scuba dives.

For less adventurous exploration, take a boat trip from the “Inland Sea” to explore the coastline, which includes an unforgettable sailing through a cavernous tunnel from the lake-like body of water to reach the open sea.

Dingli Cliffs

Not to be outdone, Malta itself has plenty of esteemed craggy coastlines of its own. Around the soaring Dingli Cliffs along the western coast, you’ll be spellbound as many before while strolling atop the weathered cliffs 830 feet above sea level.

Prefer a plunge? Venture south to St. Peter’s Pool, where ladders lead down from the limestone slab to a blissful, horseshoe-shaped sea pool, regarded as one of Malta’s superior snorkeling spots.

Cinematic Backdrops

Popeye Village

Malta’s arresting landscapes and dramatic historic cities haven’t gone unnoticed by Hollywood and TV producers, and the beautiful island has become known over the last few decades for its movie star looks.

One of Malta’s most famous filming locations is Popeye Village. Constructed as a film set for the 1980s musical motion picture, the original location has since expanded and become one of the island’s most famed attractions.

Wrapped around Anchor Bay, the wooden village, stilted huts, and family-friendly entertainment are perhaps even more celebrated today than when the film was released.

Malta’s former capital city, the medieval city of Mdina, has also starred in multiple productions, while Valletta’s Grand Harbour has stood in as the setting for the Trojan War, which took place almost 2,000 years BC.

Mdina, Rabat, & Mosta

Malta’s archaeological and architectural marvels are more than enough to steal attention from the coast. The nation’s former capital, Mdina , along with nearby Rabat and Mosta, are three of the archipelago’s most famous destinations.

Mdina citadel, affectionately known by the Maltese as the Città Silente, or Silent City, was founded around 800 BC, although evidence of a hilltop settlement dates back thousands of years.

Nowadays, the Silent City is best known for its myriad architectural styles. However, while magnificent medieval architecture can still be seen in former noble homes, such as Palazzo Falson, Mdina is today esteemed for its Baroque embellishments.

St. Paul’s Cathedral, constructed in the early 18th century, is the most striking of all, with its highly detailed frescoed ceilings and ornate stained glass windows.

St Paul’s Catacombs, Rabat

Confusingly, the name of St. Paul—the apostle who legend says lived on the island from 60 AD after being shipwrecked—is also given to a remarkable underground burial site in nearby Rabat.

With its labyrinth of tombs, chambers, halls, and passageways, St Paul’s Catacombs are phenomenal, especially considering the earliest hypogea were likely established around 400 BC.

Mosta Dome, Mosta

Nearby in Mosta, you’ll encounter a small town dominated by the Basilica of Mosta’s dome, boasting a diameter of 120 feet.

Not only is the mammoth rotunda one of the world’s largest unsupported domes, but its construction around an already-established church—later destroyed following the new basilica’s completion—is one of Malta’s most impressive tales of determination.

Maltese Flavors

If you’re a foodie, then you’ll certainly want to know what Malta is famous for in the kitchen. Lapped by the Mediterranean Sea and its bountiful catch, much of the menu is focused around freshly grilled fish, stuffed squid, the island’s signature torta tal-lampuki , Lampuki Pie, and aljotta , a tomato and fish soup seasoned with garlic, mint, and onions.

For a taste of the island’s most famous flavors, start your gastronomic tour at Is-Suq Tal-Belt, Valletta’s vast food market. While there are still a few fresh produce stalls, the venue is now more of a food court and alongside international flavors, Maltese cuisine is spotlighted.

Local street food, such as Gozitan ftira , a traditional sourdough flatbread topped with cheese, anchovies, or olives, and imqaret , date-stuffed spiced pastries, are excellent snacks to eat on the go.

To sample more of Malta’s most celebrated recipes, settle in for a more formal lunch. Some of the most typical dishes include kapunata , a sweet and sour vegetable stew, bragioli , small minced beef balls wrapped in thin steak, and fenek , a hearty slow-cooked rabbit stew.

Ancient Temples & Megalithic Mysteries

Archaeologists might have the most fervent answer when you enquire what is Malta known for. This Mediterranean island is one of the cradles of civilization.

Boasting some of the oldest megalithic sites on the planet, Malta’s reputation as a land of legends, mysteries, significantly important temples, and archaeologically advanced and fascinating finds is unquestionable.

Two of Malta’s three UNESCO World Heritage Site listings are focused on the prehistoric. The first, the Megalithic Temples of Malta, are a grouping of seven sacred complexes, Bronze Age structures, and almost unbelievable constructions.

On Malta’s main island, the most famous temple is Hagar Qim, constructed more than 5,000 years ago. Impressive not only for its scale and preservation, the advanced and technical layout of the structure, with links to astronomy and quality craftsmanship, is outstanding.

Over on Gozo, the Ġgantija Temples, constructed in 3,600 BC, are celebrated for being one of the world’s first free-standing structures.

Malta’s second prehistoric UNESCO site is the subterranean Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum. An equally enthralling archaeological site, this underground cemetery has been in use since around 4,000 BC and contains Malta’s only prehistoric wall paintings.

Marsaxlokk Fishing Village

Long before travelers and their beach towels arrived, Malta’s bays were decked out with fishing boats rather than bars.

For centuries, seafaring stories and fishing defined the islands no matter who was currently conquering this corner of the Mediterranean , all adding to its illustrious maritime status.

Fish market in Marsaxlokk

While much has changed, one of the prettiest villages, Marsaxlokk, retains its strong ties to the sea. The local love for Lampuki, the Maltese name for mahi-mahi, shines strongest. The fish is caught and gleefully eaten between August and December.

Better than the catch? The panorama of this seaside village . Pretty fishing boats bob in the fetching harbor, their sapphire blue and canary yellow paint dancing in the sun. A wide promenade wraps around the harbor, with restaurants offering the freshest fish al fresco. And behind, the dome and towers of Madonna ta’ Pompei church complete the postcard-worthy picture.

Wreck Diving

Ask a scuba diver what is Malta known for and they’ll go starry-eyed at the thought of sunken shipwrecks. The coastline around the archipelago has been long established as a hotbed of diving activity thanks to the many unique vessels and craft resting on the seabed

Adding to Malta’s allure as one of Europe’s most famous diving destinations is the reliable visibility and more hospitable water temperatures than those found further north. Malta has no rivers clouding the sea with silt and the drop-offs around the coast are home to an extraordinary variety of marine life. While many of the wrecks are at a depth most suited to advanced and specialist divers, some are well placed to be seen from above by first-time divers.

Some of the most revered sites in these wreck-strewn waters include HMS Maori, a 377-foot-long World War II destroyer, and Le Polynesien, which was torpedoed over a century ago yet remains in relatively good shape. Thanks to their shallow placements, some of the purposefully sunk vessels, including the P31 patrol boat, provide the perfect entry-level dive.

Historic Viticulture

Vineyard in Gozo

Malta has been producing wine for millennia. The Phoenicians introduced viticulture to the islands, likely first on Gozo, giving the island 2,000 years to perfect its craft. As with many of its neighboring Mediterranean nations, Malta’s wine production is highly esteemed, with the small-batch nature of the diminutive country’s wine scene making it highly prized.

Slipping away to a winery is one of the best things to do in Malta for a taste of premium wines directly from the producers. Syrah, the distinctive local Merlot, and the indigenous white grape Girgentina are some of the most celebrated varietals produced here.

Maltese wine

Seek out the award-winning wines from Delicata, a fourth-generation winery that, in part, uses vines growing from the same lands that the Phoenicians initially planted.

If wine isn’t your thing, fear not. The Maltese are equally famous for their love of specialist and hyper-local liqueurs. Lumincetta , a citrus liqueur laced with lemon, is a refreshing after-dinner drink, while other fruit flavors can be enjoyed by ordering a Bajtra , distilled with prickly pears, and the more carob-heavy and herbal mix of Hanini .

Ready to discover what Malta is famous for in person? Browse Celebrity’s cruises to Malta and start planning your next idyllic Mediterranean vacation.

Daniel James Clarke

Daniel James Clarke is a British-born travel writer and photographer, now calling Portugal home—and yes, eating far too many pastéis de nata . His writing has appeared in publications including Lonely Planet and The Times, and he is happiest exploring a new destination, from indulgent local restaurants to scuba diving adventures.

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MALTESE MAGIC

With historic buildings, rocky coastlines, cultural delights, and year-round sunshine, escape to the largest island-state in the Mediterranean!

WHY VISIT MALTA?

Rich history.

Malta is home to some of the oldest temples in the world, impressive medieval architecture, and breath-taking cathedrals. Unleash your inner historian with a tour of the ‘Three Cities’ - Birgu, Cospicua and Senglea, a trio of citadels. Make a day of it and enjoy wine tasting with a stop off at Marsovin Cellars – one of Malta's oldest vineyards.

The capital, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to St John’s Cathedral, the National Museum of Archaeology, and ancient fortifications built by the Knights of Malta. Explore the walled city of Mdina and admire sand-coloured buildings with its rich, Roman history.

Bountiful beaches

After all the sightseeing, grab your hat, sun lotion, swimming costume and head to some of the best beaches in Malta! The rocky bays and coves give way to pebble and stone beaches, but you can still discover hidden gems and golden sand beaches.

With turquoise, clear waters and white sand, the Blue Lagoon on the island of Comino is not to be missed. A short ferry will take you to the island of Gozo, where you can soak up the sun on Ramla Beach, with its red sand and blissful surroundings. You can also go scuba diving to explore underwater treasures. Top tip – set off early to avoid the crowds.

Year-round sun

Did you know that Malta is one of the sunniest countries in Europe? With its Mediterranean climate, Malta has hot, dry summers and mild winters, making it ideal for catching some much-needed sunshine over the winter months.

Dine alfresco at a selection of outdoor or rooftop restaurants, as you soak up the historical sights around you. For a romantic setting, some restaurants offer panoramic views over Valletta.

Meet Sarah, RCI guide for Malta

“Everyone should experience Malta! If you’re travelling as a family, I’d recommend visiting in the summer months as there are more activities on offer. It’s also a fantastic winter-sun destination.

If you want to sample some of the local delicacies, try a dish called stuffat tal-fenek which is a slow-cooked rabbit stew, cooked in red wine, tomato and garlic.

To explore the island and see as much as possible, you can easily get around by bus. Sliema is a great place to visit and reminiscent of a seaside town - with lots of bars, cafes, boat trips and beaches on offer. Valetta is an incredibly cultural place, and I'd recommend visiting the Upper Barrakka park and garden to take in the panoramic views of the harbour.”

THINGS TO DO

Blue lagoon, beaches and bays catamaran sailing tour

Gozo full-day jeep tour with private boat

Shore excursion of Malta including Mdina and Valletta

The Valletta street food and culture walking tour

Stay at our resorts, explore malta with us.

Click the map to see resorts

GETTING THERE

Getting around.

HOTEL OPTIONS

Insider tips, which airport should i fly into.

Malta International Airport is the only airport in Malta and offers international flights.

Be sure to do your research on public transport options for bus and taxi services, or you can rent a car if you prefer the flexibility of getting around on your own.

When is the best time to travel?

July tends to be the hottest month with temperatures in the 30’s – ideal for sunseekers! If you want to avoid the crowds, Malta is the perfect destination to enjoy some winter-sun, with temperatures hovering around 18 degrees. The best time to explore Mdina is in the spring or early autumn, when the streets are quieter.

Are there any events in Malta?

There’s a lot happening in Malta year-round, and no two nights are the same! From festivals, to theatre, music, nightlife and more, there’s plenty to keep you entertained.

Health and wellness enthusiasts can enjoy outdoor fitness events, as Malta’s serene locations by the shore are ideal for yoga sessions and retreats.

As one of the biggest arts and culture festivals, Notte Bianca takes place in October and is perfect for culture-lovers. Palaces, heritage sites and museums open their doors to the public free of charge, often staying open well into the night.

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