The adventure awaits
Malta is one of those places that packs a lot into a very small area. In a few days you can go from fortified cities and quiet medieval streets to turquoise lagoons, cliff swimming spots, and open natural landscapes. All without needing a car. This itinerary is built to make that feel easy. Sliema works as the base because it keeps everything connected: ferries straight into Valletta, simple bus routes across the island, and a waterfront that becomes part of your daily routine. From there, each day follows a clear flow: early starts, efficient transport, and a mix of exploring and time in the water. Valletta and Mdina bring the history and architecture. Comino is all about swimming in clear water and moving between lagoons. Gozo is the nature day, slower, more open, with cliffs, beaches, and viewpoints that feel more raw and less built up compared to the mainland. The idea isn’t to rush or overpack days, but to move through the island in a way that feels natural. Distances are short, ferries are frequent, and everything connects easily if you time it well. Done right, Malta feels like a combination of multiple trips in one. History, sea, and nature all within a few minutes of each other.
Your adventure begins as soon as you land in Malta. From the airport, head directly to Sliema using the Airport Direct bus, Bolt, or taxi, depending on your arrival time and energy. Once you reach your base, check in and settle into the rhythm of the island. Sliema is the perfect starting point. Everything is walkable, the waterfront is right in front of you, and Valletta sits just across the harbour. If you feel like exploring, take a slow walk along the promenade, grab your first pastizzi from a local bakery, and ease into the Mediterranean pace. If you arrive late or feel tired, simply head straight to your accommodation and save the exploring for tomorrow. The island will be waiting. Today’s program depends on your arrival time.
Malta is very easy to navigate on arrival because there is only one international airport. From here, public buses or taxis connect you directly to the main tourist areas like Sliema and Valletta. Even without a car, getting around the island is straightforward and affordable.
You can take the Airport Direct TD3 bus from Malta airport to Sliema for a direct, convenient, and affordable journey. The bus runs every 30 minutes, operates daily and takes approximately 25-45 minutes depending on traffic. You can buy the ticket on board or buy the Tallinja card at the airport. There are several options for flexible travel cards, you can check them in the link.
Tip: Services like Bolt operate in Malta and are usually cheaper than airport taxis. If arriving late evening, Bolt is usually the most practical option.
We chose Sliema as our base in Malta and it turned out to be one of the best decisions of the trip. It is central, well connected, and has some of the best views across the harbour towards Valletta. Everything is walkable - ferries, restaurants, supermarkets, and the waterfront promenade. Staying near the ferry makes Valletta and the Three Cities extremely easy to access, as well as the ferry to Gozo!
Tip: If travelling on a budget and planning to cook, LIDL is within walking distance and is one of the cheapest supermarkets in the area.
First food stop in Malta: pastizzi
Pastizzi are one of Malta’s most iconic street foods - flaky pastry parcels typically filled with ricotta or mushy peas. They’re extremely cheap and delicious, usually around €0.70 to €1 each, which makes them easy to keep coming back to - we ended up eating them almost every day during the trip. We tried them at Jeff's Pastizzeria, known for serving them fresh and consistently. There are many pastizzerias around Malta, so it’s worth trying them from different local bakeries rather than sticking to one spot.
Tip: look for queues - locals usually indicate the best and freshest places to get them.
The Sliema waterfront is the perfect introduction to Malta. A long seaside promenade with open views of Valletta, traditional boats in the harbour, and a calm Mediterranean atmosphere. This is where the island starts to make sense - ferries crossing constantly, people walking at sunset, cafés opening along the water, and the feeling that everything important is just across the harbour.
Tip: Use this walk to orient yourself and check ferry schedules for the following day. The crossing to Valletta is very frequent and takes roughly 5–10 minutes depending on the service.
End the first day with one of the most iconic views in Malta. As the sun sets, Valletta glows across the harbour in warm golden light, reflecting perfectly on the water. It’s a simple moment, but it instantly defines the trip - calm, cinematic, and unforgettable.
This is a full immersion day into Malta’s history, designed around the natural rhythm of the Grand Harbour. The morning starts early in Valletta, when the streets are quiet and the limestone is still cool and empty. From the ferry arrival, the route naturally flows uphill to Upper Barrakka Gardens for the first panoramic view of the island, followed by slow exploration through Valletta’s compact streets and key landmarks like the Grandmaster’s Palace and St John’s Co-Cathedral. After midday, the experience shifts across the harbour to the Three Cities, where the pace drops completely - quieter streets, local life, and a long waterfront lunch facing Valletta. The day finishes back in the capital with Fort St Elmo in the softer afternoon light before returning to Sliema by ferry at sunset.
One of the easiest and most scenic ways to reach Valletta is by ferry from Sliema. The crossing is short but beautiful, giving you constant views of the harbour and the fortified skyline of Valletta approaching from the water. We recommend going early in the morning (around 8-9am) to avoid crowds and enjoy the calmer streets in Valletta.
Tip: If you like sunrises and quieter moments, an early walk (or run) along the Sliema promenade is worth it - the same waterfront that later becomes busy in the afternoon feels completely different at sunrise, with soft light, calm sea views, and almost no people around.
You can buy the return tickets at the Sliema ferry terminal or use the Tallinja card if you decided to buy one.
The arrival point immediately connects you to Valletta’s main streets. From here, the city opens up into a compact grid of historic lanes, viewpoints, and landmarks. Everything is walkable and close together.
5–10 min walk uphill from Valletta ferry terminal.
A beautiful garden and viewpoint in Valletta, overlooking the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities, offering one of the best first panoramic views of Malta’s historic core. From here you get a clear sense of the layered fortifications, harbours, and limestone architecture that define the area. The gardens were originally created in the 17th century as a private space for the Knights of St. John, and later opened to the public. Today, they are one of the most visited viewpoints in Valletta. A key highlight is the saluting battery located below the gardens. This historic cannon platform fires daily at midday (traditionally 12:00), a ritual that dates back to the British period. The cannons are positioned just above sea level and were historically used for signalling arriving ships and military salutes across the harbour.
Tip: Arrive before mid-morning cruise crowds for clean photos and space. You can come back later if you wish to watch the saluting ceremony.
Walk through Republic Street and side alleys from Upper Barrakka.
Republic Street is the main spine of Valletta, but the best experience comes from branching into smaller streets that show the city’s character. Valletta feels like an open-air museum - compact, detailed, and best explored slowly in the early morning before heat and crowds build up. You can move without a fixed plan, but a few streets are especially worth weaving into your walk:
- Strait Street: One of the most atmospheric streets in Valletta, once known for nightlife and sailors’ bars. Today it’s quieter in the morning, with tall stone buildings and tight proportions that show the city’s older character.
- Merchant Street: A livelier street with cafés, small shops, and market energy. Good for a coffee stop while staying in the historic core.
- Side alleys off Republic Street: These are where Valletta feels most authentic: colourful balconies, carved wooden doors, flower pots, and narrow limestone corridors with almost no tourists early in the day.
You can spend time simply walking without a fixed plan, stopping for coffee and taking photos in every direction.
The Grandmaster’s Palace is one of the most important historic buildings in Valletta and a key stop to understand Malta’s past. It was originally built as the residence of the Grand Masters of the Knights of St. John and later served as the Governor’s Palace under British rule. Today, it also hosts the Office of the President of Malta. Inside, it is bigger than it looks from outside. The main highlight is the Armoury, with a strong collection of weapons and armour from the Knights’ era. It feels less like a traditional museum and more like walking through a functioning historic building that is still in official use.
Tickets: Tickets can be bought directly on arrival, so there’s no strict need to pre-book unless you are visiting in peak season or with a group. Entry is usually flexible, and queues are minimal outside high tourist hours. Official information and updates can be found in this link.
St John’s Co-Cathedral is one of the most impressive interiors in Europe. From the outside, it looks simple and heavy, but inside it is completely different. Richly decorated marble floors, detailed Baroque gold work, and dramatic interiors that feel overwhelming in the best way. A major highlight is Caravaggio’s famous painting, “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist,” which is one of the cathedral’s most significant artworks and alone makes the visit worth it. This is a paid entry, but it is one of the few places in Valletta that genuinely feels essential rather than optional.
Tickets: Tickets can usually be bought on arrival, but it’s worth going earlier in the day to avoid tour groups. If visiting in peak season, online booking can help skip queues. You can buy tickets online here.
Walk down to Valletta - Three Cities ferry terminal. You can buy return tickets here or use the Tallinja card.
Another short ferry ride takes you across the Grand Harbour to the Three Cities. The view of Valletta from the water is just beautiful.
The Three Cities feel completely different from Valletta: quieter, more local, and slower in pace. Narrow streets, old stone buildings, and everyday life make the area feel less tourist-driven and more authentic. The main areas are Birgu (Vittoriosa), Bormla (Cospicua), and Senglea (Isla), all connected along the harbour. In Birgu, the waterfront is ideal for lunch, with restaurants facing directly across the Grand Harbour towards Valletta. A key highlight here is Fort St Angelo, offering strong views over the harbour and a sense of the area’s military history. In Senglea, Gardjola Gardens is the main viewpoint, with panoramic views and historic watchtower features.
Tip: Walkind around the Three Cities is optional, best for when you have extra energy for walking and want a deeper, more local exploration outside Valletta.
Return back to Valletta. The return crossing gives another chance to see Valletta from the water, especially beautiful in soft afternoon light.
Once back in Valletta, instead of heading straight to the ferry, it’s worth stopping at Fort St Elmo. The late afternoon light makes this a great time to visit, especially after returning from the Three Cities. You can also pause for a coffee or gelato in Valletta before or after exploring the fort. Inside, it’s one of the most impressive museums in Malta, giving a clear look into the Great Siege and Malta’s military history. The fort itself is in a powerful location at the tip of the peninsula, with views over both harbours.
Suggested timing: Allow enough time here (minimum 1 hour and ideally 2 to 2.5 hours) — it is larger than it first appears.
Tickets: Entry is paid and can usually be purchased on arrival. Online booking is also available via this link, which can be useful in peak season but is not essential most of the year.
Tip: The suggested flow is to visit in the late afternoon after exploring the Three Cities and Valletta centre. However, if preferred, it can also be done earlier in the day, before or after Upper Barrakka Gardens, depending on how you structure your route.
After a full day exploring the Three Cities and Valletta, you can either make your way back to Sliema or stay and explore the evening in Valletta. This is when the city changes completely — the streets get warmer and more atmospheric. Cafés and restaurants fill the steps and narrow streets, and the whole city feels alive but relaxed at the same time. It’s one of the nicest moments of the trip: no rush and dinner in the middle of historic streets instead of a restaurant setting.
End the day with a calm ferry ride back to Sliema.
This is the most energetic day of the itinerary and a full shift into Malta’s natural side. The day starts early with a small-group speedboat tour from Sliema, designed to reach Comino before the main crowds arrive. The route flows through crystal-clear swim stops at Crystal Lagoon, Blue Lagoon, and surrounding coves, where the experience is focused on swimming, cliffs, and open water rather than beaches or facilities. The boat itself becomes part of the experience, with a relaxed atmosphere, and easy movement between locations. After returning to Sliema in the early afternoon, the rest of the day is intentionally left open for recovery — either a slow waterfront walk, a swim near St Julian’s, or simply time to relax after a high-intensity morning on the water.
Short walk to Sliema waterfront where the tour departs from.
The most efficient way to visit Comino is a small-group speedboat tour (around 40 people max). It completely changes the experience. Faster travel, fewer crowds at stops, and more time in the water.
We highly recommend Elvis Tours (or similar operators). You can check the itinerary and prices in this link.
The experience is fast, well organised, and feels more like a day out with a small group than a standard tour. The itinerary typically includes multiple swim stops, caves, and time around the Blue Lagoon, with an easy flow between locations. A key advantage is the included snorkelling gear, making it easy to jump straight into each stop without preparation. You will have options for food and drinks at the Blue Lagoon, but they are limited, expensive, and often involve long queues in peak season. Bringing your own snacks and water avoids waiting and lets you spend more time swimming and exploring. It’s optional, but strongly recommended if you want a smoother, cheaper experience.
Tip: book in advance, in peak season these small-group tours sell out quickly.
A calm turquoise lagoon surrounded by cliffs with extremely clear water. It’s usually the first swim stop of the day, and early timing makes a big difference. The water is still, visibility is high, and it feels more open before other boats arrive.
Famous for its bright turquoise water and shallow sandy seabed, the Blue Lagoon is visually striking from the moment you arrive. The central pier area gets crowded quickly, but the experience changes completely when you swim along the edges. Away from the main docking point, the water becomes clearer and quieter, with small natural pockets where you can actually enjoy the setting instead of just passing through.
Tip: Avoid the main dock and move immediately along the rocky sides for a much better experience.
The coastline around Comino is full of sea caves and rock formations carved by wind and water over time. Speedboat tours pass close to these areas, giving a completely different perspective of the island beyond the lagoons. It’s a short but visually powerful part of the route, especially when the sea is calm.
Most small-group speedboat tours return to Sliema by early afternoon (14:30), allowing time to relax along the waterfront or continue exploring Malta at a slower pace. The waterfront in Sliema or nearby St Julian’s is ideal for a relaxed afternoon: cafés, swimming spots, and long walks (or more swimming) by the sea.
Tip: Keep this afternoon unplanned, it works best as a natural wind-down.
After the excitement of Comino, this day slows the pace down and explores a completely different side of Malta — the dramatic south coast. Start with the famous Blue Grotto viewpoint and boat ride, then leave room for adventure as you discover the island’s hidden swimming spots and crystal-clear waters. The day is designed to be flexible: spend more time swimming if you find a beautiful spot, enjoy a slow seafood lunch in Marsaxlokk, or visit St Peter’s Pool if you still have energy. Unlike the busy highlights of the previous days, this is a day to connect with Malta’s natural side, take things slower, and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle.
Getting to Blue Grotto Viewpoint from Sliema usually requires a connection and takes around 45–60 minutes depending on traffic. The budget option is taking a bus to Valletta and then changing to bus 74, which stops near the Blue Grotto viewpoint.
Tip: Public transport works well during the day, but connections can be slow outside peak frequency times, so private transport is often worth it for this route. You can rent a car for the day or use Bolt (very convenient and easy).
This is one of the most impressive coastal views in Malta. From above, the sea shifts between deep blue and turquoise depending on sunlight and wind conditions. It’s a quick stop, but an essential one for understanding the raw coastline of the south.
Tip: Arrive early. The light is better, it’s quieter, and the sea is usually calmer.
From the viewpoint, walk down the road towards Wied iż-Żurrieq harbour (around 10–15 minutes)
The Blue Grotto boat trip is absolutely worth adding to your day. The experience is simple: a short local boat ride through the surrounding sea caves, but the colours are unforgettable. Once inside the caves, the sunlight reflects through the water creating intense blue tones that are difficult to appreciate from land. Seeing the coastline from the water also reveals small hidden bays and swimming spots that you would otherwise miss.
Tip: Bring cash because tickets are purchased locally and card payment is not accepted.
Optional Adventure - Hidden Coastal Swim: If you enjoy a bit of adventure, the Blue Grotto area has some incredible swimming spots away from the main tourist areas. We followed a rocky coastal trail down from the cliffs and spent much longer than expected swimming in the clear water. It became one of those unplanned moments that ends up being a highlight of the trip, no crowds, no organised beach, just Malta’s coastline at its most natural.
- Important: We only recommend this if you are comfortable with uneven terrain and a more adventurous walk. The paths are not official trails, there is no signage, and the rocks can be slippery and sharp. You also need proper shoes, water and snackes (and snorkelling gear if you have it!)
- How to get down: From the main Blue Grotto viewpoint parking/road area, you return slightly along the main road and look for a steeper natural descent on the right-hand side of the cliff area. This is an informal rocky path used by locals and divers that leads down toward the coastline and lower bay. This leads to natural swimming areas around the bay, not inside the caves themselves.
Bolt / Taxi is the best option here as bus connections are possible but slower.
After a full day outdoors, return to Sliema and enjoy a slower evening. Explore the other side of the waterfront, where you will find restaurants, swimming areas, and relaxed seaside spots perfect for dinner or a drink.
If you still have energy, St Julian’s is nearby and offers a livelier atmosphere with bars and nightlife. We chose a quiet evening instead. After hours walking under the Maltese sun, the perfect ending was simply good food and rest before another big day.
Gozo is the most complete island day of the itinerary and rewards an early start. The experience begins with the first ferry from Malta, arriving in a quiet and slow-moving island before the crowds. The morning is dedicated to the Inland Sea and Blue Hole, where calm waters and dramatic rock formations define the landscape at its best conditions. Midday shifts inland to Victoria and the Citadel for a slower break and panoramic views over the island. In the afternoon, the rhythm moves back to the coast at Ramla Bay, followed by the short hike to Tal-Mixta Cave for one of Gozo’s most iconic viewpoints. The day finishes with a return ferry in the evening, closing a full loop of the island with a strong contrast between coastal nature, historic towns, and quiet rural roads.
This is where you begin your journey to Gozo.
Gozo is best done early. We reccommend taking the first ferry of the day (we got the 5:45am)!. This gives you a big advantage: quieter roads, empty viewpoints, and a much more relaxed experience before the island gets busy. Going this early also means you can catch beautiful sunrise views during the crossing and as you arrive, with soft light over the sea and coastline before the island fully wakes up.
Once you arrive in Mġarr, the island feels quiet, slow, and completely different from mainland Malta. There are not many tourist so early in the day.
From Mġarr terminal, take a bus towards Victoria (Rabat, Gozo). Then connect to buses heading toward Dwejra / Inland Sea / Blue Hole area. Key routes generally include Mġarr to Victoria (main hub) and Victoria to Dwejra (Inland Sea + Blue Hole).
If you prefer a more comfortable and flexible option, especially if travelling in a larger group, you can also book a private tour directly from Mġarr terminal (usually up to 4 people per vehicle). This takes you directly to the main highlights around Gozo without needing to manage bus connections. However, we preferred exploring by public bus at our own pace, which allowed more flexibility and a more local experience.
Tip: If timing allows, you can stop in Victoria briefly for coffee before continuing west.
A calm lagoon in western Gozo connected to the open sea through a narrow natural tunnel carved into the cliffs. It is part of the wider Dwejra Bay area, a dramatic coastal landscape on the island. The lagoon is enclosed by high limestone cliffs, creating a sheltered body of water where conditions are usually much calmer than the open sea. Small local boats pass through the tunnel, offering short trips out to the open coastline and nearby sea caves. The surrounding area also includes rugged cliffs, walking paths, and viewpoints over the open Mediterranean. Early in the morning, the atmosphere is especially quiet. The water is still, boats move slowly, and the whole area feels almost private before tour groups arrive later in the day.
Tip: Cash is required for local boat rides, and prices are usually paid directly to boat operators on site.
One of the most impressive natural swimming spots in Malta. A deep circular rock formation opening into the open sea, with crystal-clear visibility and dramatic underwater rock structures. We highly reccommend doing it early in the morning and enjoying a swim that feels almost private.
From Dwejra/Blue Hole stop, take a bus back to Victoria (Rabat, Gozo). From Victoria bus terminal, the Citadel is a short uphill walk (10–15 minutes).
The historic centre of Gozo, sitting on a hill overlooking the entire island. Inside the Citadel, narrow streets and old stone buildings create a calm contrast to the coastal areas. It’s a good midday stop to slow down and explore a bit of history. You can walk around Victoria and stop at cafés or restaurants, or, if you’ve brought food, continue on to the next stop and have lunch there instead.
Walk back to Victoria bus terminal, then take a bus towards Ramla Bay (Nadur / Xaghra direction). Get off at the Ramla Beach stop (last one) and walk down to the beach.
One of Gozo’s most beautiful beaches, known for its red sand and wide open bay. The water is shallow at the edges and deepens gradually, making it perfect for a long swim or just relaxing after a full day of exploring. By arriving later in the day, you avoid peak crowds and get a more relaxed swimming experience, since most people do this as a first stop. For an even quieter swim, it can also be saved for after a stop at Tal-Mixta Cave on the way back.
Short uphill walk from Ramla Beach (15-20 minutes, steep). From the beach, walk to the far end and follow the path that climbs up the hillside. This is the trail leading to Tal-Mixta Cave.
The route is straightforward but exposed in parts, so proper shoes and water are recommended.
A natural cave opening that frames Ramla Bay perfectly. The view from inside the cave is one of the most photographed scenes in Gozo, combining cliffs, sand, and sea in one wide panorama. From here, you can walk back down and stop for a quieter swim along Ramla Beach.
From Ramla Bay, walk back up to the main road to the same bus stop where you arrived and take a bus towards Victoria (Rabat, Gozo). From Victoria, change to a bus heading to Mġarr Harbour (Gozo Ferry Terminal). The bus terminates directly at the harbour, so you can simply stay on until the final stop.
The return journey feels calm and satisfying after a full day of island exploration. Gozo is best experienced early and efficiently, and returning in the evening gives you time to fully reset.
The final day slows everything down and shifts away from the coast into Malta’s inland history. The morning is dedicated to Mdina, the Silent City, where narrow stone streets, high walls, and complete stillness create a very different atmosphere from the rest of the island. A short optional stop in Rabat adds a more local contrast before heading back to Sliema. The afternoon is kept light for a final walk along the waterfront, a relaxed meal, or one last view over Valletta across the harbour, bringing the trip full circle. Adjust the plan to fit your departure time.
There are direct buses from Sliema to Mdina, or you can get a connection through Valleta. A quicker option, but more expensive, is using Bolt.
Mdina feels completely different from the rest of Malta. A quiet, fortified city with narrow stone streets, no traffic, and a stillness that immediately stands out. It’s known as the “Silent City” for a reason, everything feels slower and more contained. Mdina is built for wandering. Narrow alleys, high stone walls, and quiet courtyards create a completely different atmosphere from coastal Malta. Every corner feels still and almost untouched.
Tip: Visit early morning to avoid tour groups and midday heat if travelling on summer.
A more local and lived-in town next to Mdina. Less polished, more everyday life with small cafés, bakeries, and residential streets give a contrast to Mdina’s silence.
Tip: Only worth it if you have extra time. Mdina is the main highlight.
Return to Sliema for one final coastal moment. This is the perfect place to slow down after the inland visit: a final walk along the promenade, a relaxed lunch by the sea, or a last swim if time allows. It brings the trip full circle, ending where it began: overlooking Valletta across the harbour.
Getting back to the airport is simple and direct. The same transport system used on arrival makes departure easy, with frequent bus connections from Sliema or quick Bolt transfers depending on timing.
Leaving Malta is straightforward, but the final drive past the coastline is a reminder of how much of the island is defined by sea views, limestone cliffs, and short distances between completely different landscapes. You leave from the same place you arrived. One airport, one island, and a route that connects everything from historic cities to natural swimming spots within minutes. Be sure to arrive at the airport at least 2/3 hours before your flight.
Malta is small, but it never feels repetitive. Every day looks and feels different — from Valletta’s history and Mdina’s silence, to Comino’s clear water and Gozo’s slower pace. Everything is close, but the contrast between places is what makes the trip work.
The rhythm of the trip is simple: early starts, ferries, and time in the water. Mornings are for exploring before the crowds and heat, afternoons naturally slow down around beaches or coastal villages, and evenings are for sunsets over the harbour in Sliema. Nothing feels complicated, but timing changes everything.
What makes Malta special is how much you can fit into a short time without needing to rush in a stressful way. You can be in a historic city in the morning, swimming in a lagoon by midday, and watching sunset over Valletta the same day. It’s all connected, and the ferries make it feel effortless.
In the end, it’s not a destination you “tick off” — it’s one you experience in layers. The more you move through it, the more it opens up.
Malta is one of those places that packs a lot into a very small area. In a few days you can go from fortified cities and quiet medieval streets to turquoise lagoons, cliff swimming spots, and open natural landscapes. All without needing a car. This itinerary is built to make that feel easy. Sliema works as the base because it keeps everything connected: ferries straight into Valletta, simple bus routes across the island, and a waterfront that becomes part of your daily routine. From there, each day follows a clear flow: early starts, efficient transport, and a mix of exploring and time in the water. Valletta and Mdina bring the history and architecture. Comino is all about swimming in clear water and moving between lagoons. Gozo is the nature day, slower, more open, with cliffs, beaches, and viewpoints that feel more raw and less built up compared to the mainland. The idea isn’t to rush or overpack days, but to move through the island in a way that feels natural. Distances are short, ferries are frequent, and everything connects easily if you time it well. Done right, Malta feels like a combination of multiple trips in one. History, sea, and nature all within a few minutes of each other.
Your adventure begins as soon as you land in Malta. From the airport, head directly to Sliema using the Airport Direct bus, Bolt, or taxi, depending on your arrival time and energy. Once you reach your base, check in and settle into the rhythm of the island. Sliema is the perfect starting point. Everything is walkable, the waterfront is right in front of you, and Valletta sits just across the harbour. If you feel like exploring, take a slow walk along the promenade, grab your first pastizzi from a local bakery, and ease into the Mediterranean pace. If you arrive late or feel tired, simply head straight to your accommodation and save the exploring for tomorrow. The island will be waiting. Today’s program depends on your arrival time.
Malta is very easy to navigate on arrival because there is only one international airport. From here, public buses or taxis connect you directly to the main tourist areas like Sliema and Valletta. Even without a car, getting around the island is straightforward and affordable.
You can take the Airport Direct TD3 bus from Malta airport to Sliema for a direct, convenient, and affordable journey. The bus runs every 30 minutes, operates daily and takes approximately 25-45 minutes depending on traffic. You can buy the ticket on board or buy the Tallinja card at the airport. There are several options for flexible travel cards, you can check them in the link.
Tip: Services like Bolt operate in Malta and are usually cheaper than airport taxis. If arriving late evening, Bolt is usually the most practical option.
We chose Sliema as our base in Malta and it turned out to be one of the best decisions of the trip. It is central, well connected, and has some of the best views across the harbour towards Valletta. Everything is walkable - ferries, restaurants, supermarkets, and the waterfront promenade. Staying near the ferry makes Valletta and the Three Cities extremely easy to access, as well as the ferry to Gozo!
Tip: If travelling on a budget and planning to cook, LIDL is within walking distance and is one of the cheapest supermarkets in the area.
First food stop in Malta: pastizzi
Pastizzi are one of Malta’s most iconic street foods - flaky pastry parcels typically filled with ricotta or mushy peas. They’re extremely cheap and delicious, usually around €0.70 to €1 each, which makes them easy to keep coming back to - we ended up eating them almost every day during the trip. We tried them at Jeff's Pastizzeria, known for serving them fresh and consistently. There are many pastizzerias around Malta, so it’s worth trying them from different local bakeries rather than sticking to one spot.
Tip: look for queues - locals usually indicate the best and freshest places to get them.
The Sliema waterfront is the perfect introduction to Malta. A long seaside promenade with open views of Valletta, traditional boats in the harbour, and a calm Mediterranean atmosphere. This is where the island starts to make sense - ferries crossing constantly, people walking at sunset, cafés opening along the water, and the feeling that everything important is just across the harbour.
Tip: Use this walk to orient yourself and check ferry schedules for the following day. The crossing to Valletta is very frequent and takes roughly 5–10 minutes depending on the service.
End the first day with one of the most iconic views in Malta. As the sun sets, Valletta glows across the harbour in warm golden light, reflecting perfectly on the water. It’s a simple moment, but it instantly defines the trip - calm, cinematic, and unforgettable.
This is a full immersion day into Malta’s history, designed around the natural rhythm of the Grand Harbour. The morning starts early in Valletta, when the streets are quiet and the limestone is still cool and empty. From the ferry arrival, the route naturally flows uphill to Upper Barrakka Gardens for the first panoramic view of the island, followed by slow exploration through Valletta’s compact streets and key landmarks like the Grandmaster’s Palace and St John’s Co-Cathedral. After midday, the experience shifts across the harbour to the Three Cities, where the pace drops completely - quieter streets, local life, and a long waterfront lunch facing Valletta. The day finishes back in the capital with Fort St Elmo in the softer afternoon light before returning to Sliema by ferry at sunset.
One of the easiest and most scenic ways to reach Valletta is by ferry from Sliema. The crossing is short but beautiful, giving you constant views of the harbour and the fortified skyline of Valletta approaching from the water. We recommend going early in the morning (around 8-9am) to avoid crowds and enjoy the calmer streets in Valletta.
Tip: If you like sunrises and quieter moments, an early walk (or run) along the Sliema promenade is worth it - the same waterfront that later becomes busy in the afternoon feels completely different at sunrise, with soft light, calm sea views, and almost no people around.
You can buy the return tickets at the Sliema ferry terminal or use the Tallinja card if you decided to buy one.
The arrival point immediately connects you to Valletta’s main streets. From here, the city opens up into a compact grid of historic lanes, viewpoints, and landmarks. Everything is walkable and close together.
5–10 min walk uphill from Valletta ferry terminal.
A beautiful garden and viewpoint in Valletta, overlooking the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities, offering one of the best first panoramic views of Malta’s historic core. From here you get a clear sense of the layered fortifications, harbours, and limestone architecture that define the area. The gardens were originally created in the 17th century as a private space for the Knights of St. John, and later opened to the public. Today, they are one of the most visited viewpoints in Valletta. A key highlight is the saluting battery located below the gardens. This historic cannon platform fires daily at midday (traditionally 12:00), a ritual that dates back to the British period. The cannons are positioned just above sea level and were historically used for signalling arriving ships and military salutes across the harbour.
Tip: Arrive before mid-morning cruise crowds for clean photos and space. You can come back later if you wish to watch the saluting ceremony.
Walk through Republic Street and side alleys from Upper Barrakka.
Republic Street is the main spine of Valletta, but the best experience comes from branching into smaller streets that show the city’s character. Valletta feels like an open-air museum - compact, detailed, and best explored slowly in the early morning before heat and crowds build up. You can move without a fixed plan, but a few streets are especially worth weaving into your walk:
- Strait Street: One of the most atmospheric streets in Valletta, once known for nightlife and sailors’ bars. Today it’s quieter in the morning, with tall stone buildings and tight proportions that show the city’s older character.
- Merchant Street: A livelier street with cafés, small shops, and market energy. Good for a coffee stop while staying in the historic core.
- Side alleys off Republic Street: These are where Valletta feels most authentic: colourful balconies, carved wooden doors, flower pots, and narrow limestone corridors with almost no tourists early in the day.
You can spend time simply walking without a fixed plan, stopping for coffee and taking photos in every direction.
The Grandmaster’s Palace is one of the most important historic buildings in Valletta and a key stop to understand Malta’s past. It was originally built as the residence of the Grand Masters of the Knights of St. John and later served as the Governor’s Palace under British rule. Today, it also hosts the Office of the President of Malta. Inside, it is bigger than it looks from outside. The main highlight is the Armoury, with a strong collection of weapons and armour from the Knights’ era. It feels less like a traditional museum and more like walking through a functioning historic building that is still in official use.
Tickets: Tickets can be bought directly on arrival, so there’s no strict need to pre-book unless you are visiting in peak season or with a group. Entry is usually flexible, and queues are minimal outside high tourist hours. Official information and updates can be found in this link.
St John’s Co-Cathedral is one of the most impressive interiors in Europe. From the outside, it looks simple and heavy, but inside it is completely different. Richly decorated marble floors, detailed Baroque gold work, and dramatic interiors that feel overwhelming in the best way. A major highlight is Caravaggio’s famous painting, “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist,” which is one of the cathedral’s most significant artworks and alone makes the visit worth it. This is a paid entry, but it is one of the few places in Valletta that genuinely feels essential rather than optional.
Tickets: Tickets can usually be bought on arrival, but it’s worth going earlier in the day to avoid tour groups. If visiting in peak season, online booking can help skip queues. You can buy tickets online here.
Walk down to Valletta - Three Cities ferry terminal. You can buy return tickets here or use the Tallinja card.
Another short ferry ride takes you across the Grand Harbour to the Three Cities. The view of Valletta from the water is just beautiful.
The Three Cities feel completely different from Valletta: quieter, more local, and slower in pace. Narrow streets, old stone buildings, and everyday life make the area feel less tourist-driven and more authentic. The main areas are Birgu (Vittoriosa), Bormla (Cospicua), and Senglea (Isla), all connected along the harbour. In Birgu, the waterfront is ideal for lunch, with restaurants facing directly across the Grand Harbour towards Valletta. A key highlight here is Fort St Angelo, offering strong views over the harbour and a sense of the area’s military history. In Senglea, Gardjola Gardens is the main viewpoint, with panoramic views and historic watchtower features.
Tip: Walkind around the Three Cities is optional, best for when you have extra energy for walking and want a deeper, more local exploration outside Valletta.
Return back to Valletta. The return crossing gives another chance to see Valletta from the water, especially beautiful in soft afternoon light.
Once back in Valletta, instead of heading straight to the ferry, it’s worth stopping at Fort St Elmo. The late afternoon light makes this a great time to visit, especially after returning from the Three Cities. You can also pause for a coffee or gelato in Valletta before or after exploring the fort. Inside, it’s one of the most impressive museums in Malta, giving a clear look into the Great Siege and Malta’s military history. The fort itself is in a powerful location at the tip of the peninsula, with views over both harbours.
Suggested timing: Allow enough time here (minimum 1 hour and ideally 2 to 2.5 hours) — it is larger than it first appears.
Tickets: Entry is paid and can usually be purchased on arrival. Online booking is also available via this link, which can be useful in peak season but is not essential most of the year.
Tip: The suggested flow is to visit in the late afternoon after exploring the Three Cities and Valletta centre. However, if preferred, it can also be done earlier in the day, before or after Upper Barrakka Gardens, depending on how you structure your route.
After a full day exploring the Three Cities and Valletta, you can either make your way back to Sliema or stay and explore the evening in Valletta. This is when the city changes completely — the streets get warmer and more atmospheric. Cafés and restaurants fill the steps and narrow streets, and the whole city feels alive but relaxed at the same time. It’s one of the nicest moments of the trip: no rush and dinner in the middle of historic streets instead of a restaurant setting.
End the day with a calm ferry ride back to Sliema.
This is the most energetic day of the itinerary and a full shift into Malta’s natural side. The day starts early with a small-group speedboat tour from Sliema, designed to reach Comino before the main crowds arrive. The route flows through crystal-clear swim stops at Crystal Lagoon, Blue Lagoon, and surrounding coves, where the experience is focused on swimming, cliffs, and open water rather than beaches or facilities. The boat itself becomes part of the experience, with a relaxed atmosphere, and easy movement between locations. After returning to Sliema in the early afternoon, the rest of the day is intentionally left open for recovery — either a slow waterfront walk, a swim near St Julian’s, or simply time to relax after a high-intensity morning on the water.
Short walk to Sliema waterfront where the tour departs from.
The most efficient way to visit Comino is a small-group speedboat tour (around 40 people max). It completely changes the experience. Faster travel, fewer crowds at stops, and more time in the water.
We highly recommend Elvis Tours (or similar operators). You can check the itinerary and prices in this link.
The experience is fast, well organised, and feels more like a day out with a small group than a standard tour. The itinerary typically includes multiple swim stops, caves, and time around the Blue Lagoon, with an easy flow between locations. A key advantage is the included snorkelling gear, making it easy to jump straight into each stop without preparation. You will have options for food and drinks at the Blue Lagoon, but they are limited, expensive, and often involve long queues in peak season. Bringing your own snacks and water avoids waiting and lets you spend more time swimming and exploring. It’s optional, but strongly recommended if you want a smoother, cheaper experience.
Tip: book in advance, in peak season these small-group tours sell out quickly.
A calm turquoise lagoon surrounded by cliffs with extremely clear water. It’s usually the first swim stop of the day, and early timing makes a big difference. The water is still, visibility is high, and it feels more open before other boats arrive.
Famous for its bright turquoise water and shallow sandy seabed, the Blue Lagoon is visually striking from the moment you arrive. The central pier area gets crowded quickly, but the experience changes completely when you swim along the edges. Away from the main docking point, the water becomes clearer and quieter, with small natural pockets where you can actually enjoy the setting instead of just passing through.
Tip: Avoid the main dock and move immediately along the rocky sides for a much better experience.
The coastline around Comino is full of sea caves and rock formations carved by wind and water over time. Speedboat tours pass close to these areas, giving a completely different perspective of the island beyond the lagoons. It’s a short but visually powerful part of the route, especially when the sea is calm.
Most small-group speedboat tours return to Sliema by early afternoon (14:30), allowing time to relax along the waterfront or continue exploring Malta at a slower pace. The waterfront in Sliema or nearby St Julian’s is ideal for a relaxed afternoon: cafés, swimming spots, and long walks (or more swimming) by the sea.
Tip: Keep this afternoon unplanned, it works best as a natural wind-down.
After the excitement of Comino, this day slows the pace down and explores a completely different side of Malta — the dramatic south coast. Start with the famous Blue Grotto viewpoint and boat ride, then leave room for adventure as you discover the island’s hidden swimming spots and crystal-clear waters. The day is designed to be flexible: spend more time swimming if you find a beautiful spot, enjoy a slow seafood lunch in Marsaxlokk, or visit St Peter’s Pool if you still have energy. Unlike the busy highlights of the previous days, this is a day to connect with Malta’s natural side, take things slower, and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle.
Getting to Blue Grotto Viewpoint from Sliema usually requires a connection and takes around 45–60 minutes depending on traffic. The budget option is taking a bus to Valletta and then changing to bus 74, which stops near the Blue Grotto viewpoint.
Tip: Public transport works well during the day, but connections can be slow outside peak frequency times, so private transport is often worth it for this route. You can rent a car for the day or use Bolt (very convenient and easy).
This is one of the most impressive coastal views in Malta. From above, the sea shifts between deep blue and turquoise depending on sunlight and wind conditions. It’s a quick stop, but an essential one for understanding the raw coastline of the south.
Tip: Arrive early. The light is better, it’s quieter, and the sea is usually calmer.
From the viewpoint, walk down the road towards Wied iż-Żurrieq harbour (around 10–15 minutes)
The Blue Grotto boat trip is absolutely worth adding to your day. The experience is simple: a short local boat ride through the surrounding sea caves, but the colours are unforgettable. Once inside the caves, the sunlight reflects through the water creating intense blue tones that are difficult to appreciate from land. Seeing the coastline from the water also reveals small hidden bays and swimming spots that you would otherwise miss.
Tip: Bring cash because tickets are purchased locally and card payment is not accepted.
Optional Adventure - Hidden Coastal Swim: If you enjoy a bit of adventure, the Blue Grotto area has some incredible swimming spots away from the main tourist areas. We followed a rocky coastal trail down from the cliffs and spent much longer than expected swimming in the clear water. It became one of those unplanned moments that ends up being a highlight of the trip, no crowds, no organised beach, just Malta’s coastline at its most natural.
- Important: We only recommend this if you are comfortable with uneven terrain and a more adventurous walk. The paths are not official trails, there is no signage, and the rocks can be slippery and sharp. You also need proper shoes, water and snackes (and snorkelling gear if you have it!)
- How to get down: From the main Blue Grotto viewpoint parking/road area, you return slightly along the main road and look for a steeper natural descent on the right-hand side of the cliff area. This is an informal rocky path used by locals and divers that leads down toward the coastline and lower bay. This leads to natural swimming areas around the bay, not inside the caves themselves.
Bolt / Taxi is the best option here as bus connections are possible but slower.
After a full day outdoors, return to Sliema and enjoy a slower evening. Explore the other side of the waterfront, where you will find restaurants, swimming areas, and relaxed seaside spots perfect for dinner or a drink.
If you still have energy, St Julian’s is nearby and offers a livelier atmosphere with bars and nightlife. We chose a quiet evening instead. After hours walking under the Maltese sun, the perfect ending was simply good food and rest before another big day.
Gozo is the most complete island day of the itinerary and rewards an early start. The experience begins with the first ferry from Malta, arriving in a quiet and slow-moving island before the crowds. The morning is dedicated to the Inland Sea and Blue Hole, where calm waters and dramatic rock formations define the landscape at its best conditions. Midday shifts inland to Victoria and the Citadel for a slower break and panoramic views over the island. In the afternoon, the rhythm moves back to the coast at Ramla Bay, followed by the short hike to Tal-Mixta Cave for one of Gozo’s most iconic viewpoints. The day finishes with a return ferry in the evening, closing a full loop of the island with a strong contrast between coastal nature, historic towns, and quiet rural roads.
This is where you begin your journey to Gozo.
Gozo is best done early. We reccommend taking the first ferry of the day (we got the 5:45am)!. This gives you a big advantage: quieter roads, empty viewpoints, and a much more relaxed experience before the island gets busy. Going this early also means you can catch beautiful sunrise views during the crossing and as you arrive, with soft light over the sea and coastline before the island fully wakes up.
Once you arrive in Mġarr, the island feels quiet, slow, and completely different from mainland Malta. There are not many tourist so early in the day.
From Mġarr terminal, take a bus towards Victoria (Rabat, Gozo). Then connect to buses heading toward Dwejra / Inland Sea / Blue Hole area. Key routes generally include Mġarr to Victoria (main hub) and Victoria to Dwejra (Inland Sea + Blue Hole).
If you prefer a more comfortable and flexible option, especially if travelling in a larger group, you can also book a private tour directly from Mġarr terminal (usually up to 4 people per vehicle). This takes you directly to the main highlights around Gozo without needing to manage bus connections. However, we preferred exploring by public bus at our own pace, which allowed more flexibility and a more local experience.
Tip: If timing allows, you can stop in Victoria briefly for coffee before continuing west.
A calm lagoon in western Gozo connected to the open sea through a narrow natural tunnel carved into the cliffs. It is part of the wider Dwejra Bay area, a dramatic coastal landscape on the island. The lagoon is enclosed by high limestone cliffs, creating a sheltered body of water where conditions are usually much calmer than the open sea. Small local boats pass through the tunnel, offering short trips out to the open coastline and nearby sea caves. The surrounding area also includes rugged cliffs, walking paths, and viewpoints over the open Mediterranean. Early in the morning, the atmosphere is especially quiet. The water is still, boats move slowly, and the whole area feels almost private before tour groups arrive later in the day.
Tip: Cash is required for local boat rides, and prices are usually paid directly to boat operators on site.
One of the most impressive natural swimming spots in Malta. A deep circular rock formation opening into the open sea, with crystal-clear visibility and dramatic underwater rock structures. We highly reccommend doing it early in the morning and enjoying a swim that feels almost private.
From Dwejra/Blue Hole stop, take a bus back to Victoria (Rabat, Gozo). From Victoria bus terminal, the Citadel is a short uphill walk (10–15 minutes).
The historic centre of Gozo, sitting on a hill overlooking the entire island. Inside the Citadel, narrow streets and old stone buildings create a calm contrast to the coastal areas. It’s a good midday stop to slow down and explore a bit of history. You can walk around Victoria and stop at cafés or restaurants, or, if you’ve brought food, continue on to the next stop and have lunch there instead.
Walk back to Victoria bus terminal, then take a bus towards Ramla Bay (Nadur / Xaghra direction). Get off at the Ramla Beach stop (last one) and walk down to the beach.
One of Gozo’s most beautiful beaches, known for its red sand and wide open bay. The water is shallow at the edges and deepens gradually, making it perfect for a long swim or just relaxing after a full day of exploring. By arriving later in the day, you avoid peak crowds and get a more relaxed swimming experience, since most people do this as a first stop. For an even quieter swim, it can also be saved for after a stop at Tal-Mixta Cave on the way back.
Short uphill walk from Ramla Beach (15-20 minutes, steep). From the beach, walk to the far end and follow the path that climbs up the hillside. This is the trail leading to Tal-Mixta Cave.
The route is straightforward but exposed in parts, so proper shoes and water are recommended.
A natural cave opening that frames Ramla Bay perfectly. The view from inside the cave is one of the most photographed scenes in Gozo, combining cliffs, sand, and sea in one wide panorama. From here, you can walk back down and stop for a quieter swim along Ramla Beach.
From Ramla Bay, walk back up to the main road to the same bus stop where you arrived and take a bus towards Victoria (Rabat, Gozo). From Victoria, change to a bus heading to Mġarr Harbour (Gozo Ferry Terminal). The bus terminates directly at the harbour, so you can simply stay on until the final stop.
The return journey feels calm and satisfying after a full day of island exploration. Gozo is best experienced early and efficiently, and returning in the evening gives you time to fully reset.
The final day slows everything down and shifts away from the coast into Malta’s inland history. The morning is dedicated to Mdina, the Silent City, where narrow stone streets, high walls, and complete stillness create a very different atmosphere from the rest of the island. A short optional stop in Rabat adds a more local contrast before heading back to Sliema. The afternoon is kept light for a final walk along the waterfront, a relaxed meal, or one last view over Valletta across the harbour, bringing the trip full circle. Adjust the plan to fit your departure time.
There are direct buses from Sliema to Mdina, or you can get a connection through Valleta. A quicker option, but more expensive, is using Bolt.
Mdina feels completely different from the rest of Malta. A quiet, fortified city with narrow stone streets, no traffic, and a stillness that immediately stands out. It’s known as the “Silent City” for a reason, everything feels slower and more contained. Mdina is built for wandering. Narrow alleys, high stone walls, and quiet courtyards create a completely different atmosphere from coastal Malta. Every corner feels still and almost untouched.
Tip: Visit early morning to avoid tour groups and midday heat if travelling on summer.
A more local and lived-in town next to Mdina. Less polished, more everyday life with small cafés, bakeries, and residential streets give a contrast to Mdina’s silence.
Tip: Only worth it if you have extra time. Mdina is the main highlight.
Return to Sliema for one final coastal moment. This is the perfect place to slow down after the inland visit: a final walk along the promenade, a relaxed lunch by the sea, or a last swim if time allows. It brings the trip full circle, ending where it began: overlooking Valletta across the harbour.
Getting back to the airport is simple and direct. The same transport system used on arrival makes departure easy, with frequent bus connections from Sliema or quick Bolt transfers depending on timing.
Leaving Malta is straightforward, but the final drive past the coastline is a reminder of how much of the island is defined by sea views, limestone cliffs, and short distances between completely different landscapes. You leave from the same place you arrived. One airport, one island, and a route that connects everything from historic cities to natural swimming spots within minutes. Be sure to arrive at the airport at least 2/3 hours before your flight.
Malta is small, but it never feels repetitive. Every day looks and feels different — from Valletta’s history and Mdina’s silence, to Comino’s clear water and Gozo’s slower pace. Everything is close, but the contrast between places is what makes the trip work.
The rhythm of the trip is simple: early starts, ferries, and time in the water. Mornings are for exploring before the crowds and heat, afternoons naturally slow down around beaches or coastal villages, and evenings are for sunsets over the harbour in Sliema. Nothing feels complicated, but timing changes everything.
What makes Malta special is how much you can fit into a short time without needing to rush in a stressful way. You can be in a historic city in the morning, swimming in a lagoon by midday, and watching sunset over Valletta the same day. It’s all connected, and the ferries make it feel effortless.
In the end, it’s not a destination you “tick off” — it’s one you experience in layers. The more you move through it, the more it opens up.
itinerary by Ethel Simoni
The adventure awaits
Malta is one of those places that packs a lot into a very small area. In a few days you can go from fortified cities and quiet medieval streets to turquoise lagoons, cliff swimming spots, and open natural landscapes. All without needing a car. This itinerary is built to make that feel easy. Sliema works as the base because it keeps everything connected: ferries straight into Valletta, simple bus routes across the island, and a waterfront that becomes part of your daily routine. From there, each day follows a clear flow: early starts, efficient transport, and a mix of exploring and time in the water. Valletta and Mdina bring the history and architecture. Comino is all about swimming in clear water and moving between lagoons. Gozo is the nature day, slower, more open, with cliffs, beaches, and viewpoints that feel more raw and less built up compared to the mainland. The idea isn’t to rush or overpack days, but to move through the island in a way that feels natural. Distances are short, ferries are frequent, and everything connects easily if you time it well. Done right, Malta feels like a combination of multiple trips in one. History, sea, and nature all within a few minutes of each other.
Your adventure begins as soon as you land in Malta. From the airport, head directly to Sliema using the Airport Direct bus, Bolt, or taxi, depending on your arrival time and energy. Once you reach your base, check in and settle into the rhythm of the island. Sliema is the perfect starting point. Everything is walkable, the waterfront is right in front of you, and Valletta sits just across the harbour. If you feel like exploring, take a slow walk along the promenade, grab your first pastizzi from a local bakery, and ease into the Mediterranean pace. If you arrive late or feel tired, simply head straight to your accommodation and save the exploring for tomorrow. The island will be waiting. Today’s program depends on your arrival time.
Malta is very easy to navigate on arrival because there is only one international airport. From here, public buses or taxis connect you directly to the main tourist areas like Sliema and Valletta. Even without a car, getting around the island is straightforward and affordable.
You can take the Airport Direct TD3 bus from Malta airport to Sliema for a direct, convenient, and affordable journey. The bus runs every 30 minutes, operates daily and takes approximately 25-45 minutes depending on traffic. You can buy the ticket on board or buy the Tallinja card at the airport. There are several options for flexible travel cards, you can check them in the link.
Tip: Services like Bolt operate in Malta and are usually cheaper than airport taxis. If arriving late evening, Bolt is usually the most practical option.
We chose Sliema as our base in Malta and it turned out to be one of the best decisions of the trip. It is central, well connected, and has some of the best views across the harbour towards Valletta. Everything is walkable - ferries, restaurants, supermarkets, and the waterfront promenade. Staying near the ferry makes Valletta and the Three Cities extremely easy to access, as well as the ferry to Gozo!
Tip: If travelling on a budget and planning to cook, LIDL is within walking distance and is one of the cheapest supermarkets in the area.
First food stop in Malta: pastizzi
Pastizzi are one of Malta’s most iconic street foods - flaky pastry parcels typically filled with ricotta or mushy peas. They’re extremely cheap and delicious, usually around €0.70 to €1 each, which makes them easy to keep coming back to - we ended up eating them almost every day during the trip. We tried them at Jeff's Pastizzeria, known for serving them fresh and consistently. There are many pastizzerias around Malta, so it’s worth trying them from different local bakeries rather than sticking to one spot.
Tip: look for queues - locals usually indicate the best and freshest places to get them.
The Sliema waterfront is the perfect introduction to Malta. A long seaside promenade with open views of Valletta, traditional boats in the harbour, and a calm Mediterranean atmosphere. This is where the island starts to make sense - ferries crossing constantly, people walking at sunset, cafés opening along the water, and the feeling that everything important is just across the harbour.
Tip: Use this walk to orient yourself and check ferry schedules for the following day. The crossing to Valletta is very frequent and takes roughly 5–10 minutes depending on the service.
End the first day with one of the most iconic views in Malta. As the sun sets, Valletta glows across the harbour in warm golden light, reflecting perfectly on the water. It’s a simple moment, but it instantly defines the trip - calm, cinematic, and unforgettable.
This is a full immersion day into Malta’s history, designed around the natural rhythm of the Grand Harbour. The morning starts early in Valletta, when the streets are quiet and the limestone is still cool and empty. From the ferry arrival, the route naturally flows uphill to Upper Barrakka Gardens for the first panoramic view of the island, followed by slow exploration through Valletta’s compact streets and key landmarks like the Grandmaster’s Palace and St John’s Co-Cathedral. After midday, the experience shifts across the harbour to the Three Cities, where the pace drops completely - quieter streets, local life, and a long waterfront lunch facing Valletta. The day finishes back in the capital with Fort St Elmo in the softer afternoon light before returning to Sliema by ferry at sunset.
One of the easiest and most scenic ways to reach Valletta is by ferry from Sliema. The crossing is short but beautiful, giving you constant views of the harbour and the fortified skyline of Valletta approaching from the water. We recommend going early in the morning (around 8-9am) to avoid crowds and enjoy the calmer streets in Valletta.
Tip: If you like sunrises and quieter moments, an early walk (or run) along the Sliema promenade is worth it - the same waterfront that later becomes busy in the afternoon feels completely different at sunrise, with soft light, calm sea views, and almost no people around.
You can buy the return tickets at the Sliema ferry terminal or use the Tallinja card if you decided to buy one.
The arrival point immediately connects you to Valletta’s main streets. From here, the city opens up into a compact grid of historic lanes, viewpoints, and landmarks. Everything is walkable and close together.
5–10 min walk uphill from Valletta ferry terminal.
A beautiful garden and viewpoint in Valletta, overlooking the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities, offering one of the best first panoramic views of Malta’s historic core. From here you get a clear sense of the layered fortifications, harbours, and limestone architecture that define the area. The gardens were originally created in the 17th century as a private space for the Knights of St. John, and later opened to the public. Today, they are one of the most visited viewpoints in Valletta. A key highlight is the saluting battery located below the gardens. This historic cannon platform fires daily at midday (traditionally 12:00), a ritual that dates back to the British period. The cannons are positioned just above sea level and were historically used for signalling arriving ships and military salutes across the harbour.
Tip: Arrive before mid-morning cruise crowds for clean photos and space. You can come back later if you wish to watch the saluting ceremony.
Walk through Republic Street and side alleys from Upper Barrakka.
Republic Street is the main spine of Valletta, but the best experience comes from branching into smaller streets that show the city’s character. Valletta feels like an open-air museum - compact, detailed, and best explored slowly in the early morning before heat and crowds build up. You can move without a fixed plan, but a few streets are especially worth weaving into your walk:
- Strait Street: One of the most atmospheric streets in Valletta, once known for nightlife and sailors’ bars. Today it’s quieter in the morning, with tall stone buildings and tight proportions that show the city’s older character.
- Merchant Street: A livelier street with cafés, small shops, and market energy. Good for a coffee stop while staying in the historic core.
- Side alleys off Republic Street: These are where Valletta feels most authentic: colourful balconies, carved wooden doors, flower pots, and narrow limestone corridors with almost no tourists early in the day.
You can spend time simply walking without a fixed plan, stopping for coffee and taking photos in every direction.
The Grandmaster’s Palace is one of the most important historic buildings in Valletta and a key stop to understand Malta’s past. It was originally built as the residence of the Grand Masters of the Knights of St. John and later served as the Governor’s Palace under British rule. Today, it also hosts the Office of the President of Malta. Inside, it is bigger than it looks from outside. The main highlight is the Armoury, with a strong collection of weapons and armour from the Knights’ era. It feels less like a traditional museum and more like walking through a functioning historic building that is still in official use.
Tickets: Tickets can be bought directly on arrival, so there’s no strict need to pre-book unless you are visiting in peak season or with a group. Entry is usually flexible, and queues are minimal outside high tourist hours. Official information and updates can be found in this link.
St John’s Co-Cathedral is one of the most impressive interiors in Europe. From the outside, it looks simple and heavy, but inside it is completely different. Richly decorated marble floors, detailed Baroque gold work, and dramatic interiors that feel overwhelming in the best way. A major highlight is Caravaggio’s famous painting, “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist,” which is one of the cathedral’s most significant artworks and alone makes the visit worth it. This is a paid entry, but it is one of the few places in Valletta that genuinely feels essential rather than optional.
Tickets: Tickets can usually be bought on arrival, but it’s worth going earlier in the day to avoid tour groups. If visiting in peak season, online booking can help skip queues. You can buy tickets online here.
Walk down to Valletta - Three Cities ferry terminal. You can buy return tickets here or use the Tallinja card.
Another short ferry ride takes you across the Grand Harbour to the Three Cities. The view of Valletta from the water is just beautiful.
The Three Cities feel completely different from Valletta: quieter, more local, and slower in pace. Narrow streets, old stone buildings, and everyday life make the area feel less tourist-driven and more authentic. The main areas are Birgu (Vittoriosa), Bormla (Cospicua), and Senglea (Isla), all connected along the harbour. In Birgu, the waterfront is ideal for lunch, with restaurants facing directly across the Grand Harbour towards Valletta. A key highlight here is Fort St Angelo, offering strong views over the harbour and a sense of the area’s military history. In Senglea, Gardjola Gardens is the main viewpoint, with panoramic views and historic watchtower features.
Tip: Walkind around the Three Cities is optional, best for when you have extra energy for walking and want a deeper, more local exploration outside Valletta.
Return back to Valletta. The return crossing gives another chance to see Valletta from the water, especially beautiful in soft afternoon light.
Once back in Valletta, instead of heading straight to the ferry, it’s worth stopping at Fort St Elmo. The late afternoon light makes this a great time to visit, especially after returning from the Three Cities. You can also pause for a coffee or gelato in Valletta before or after exploring the fort. Inside, it’s one of the most impressive museums in Malta, giving a clear look into the Great Siege and Malta’s military history. The fort itself is in a powerful location at the tip of the peninsula, with views over both harbours.
Suggested timing: Allow enough time here (minimum 1 hour and ideally 2 to 2.5 hours) — it is larger than it first appears.
Tickets: Entry is paid and can usually be purchased on arrival. Online booking is also available via this link, which can be useful in peak season but is not essential most of the year.
Tip: The suggested flow is to visit in the late afternoon after exploring the Three Cities and Valletta centre. However, if preferred, it can also be done earlier in the day, before or after Upper Barrakka Gardens, depending on how you structure your route.
After a full day exploring the Three Cities and Valletta, you can either make your way back to Sliema or stay and explore the evening in Valletta. This is when the city changes completely — the streets get warmer and more atmospheric. Cafés and restaurants fill the steps and narrow streets, and the whole city feels alive but relaxed at the same time. It’s one of the nicest moments of the trip: no rush and dinner in the middle of historic streets instead of a restaurant setting.
End the day with a calm ferry ride back to Sliema.
This is the most energetic day of the itinerary and a full shift into Malta’s natural side. The day starts early with a small-group speedboat tour from Sliema, designed to reach Comino before the main crowds arrive. The route flows through crystal-clear swim stops at Crystal Lagoon, Blue Lagoon, and surrounding coves, where the experience is focused on swimming, cliffs, and open water rather than beaches or facilities. The boat itself becomes part of the experience, with a relaxed atmosphere, and easy movement between locations. After returning to Sliema in the early afternoon, the rest of the day is intentionally left open for recovery — either a slow waterfront walk, a swim near St Julian’s, or simply time to relax after a high-intensity morning on the water.
Short walk to Sliema waterfront where the tour departs from.
The most efficient way to visit Comino is a small-group speedboat tour (around 40 people max). It completely changes the experience. Faster travel, fewer crowds at stops, and more time in the water.
We highly recommend Elvis Tours (or similar operators). You can check the itinerary and prices in this link.
The experience is fast, well organised, and feels more like a day out with a small group than a standard tour. The itinerary typically includes multiple swim stops, caves, and time around the Blue Lagoon, with an easy flow between locations. A key advantage is the included snorkelling gear, making it easy to jump straight into each stop without preparation. You will have options for food and drinks at the Blue Lagoon, but they are limited, expensive, and often involve long queues in peak season. Bringing your own snacks and water avoids waiting and lets you spend more time swimming and exploring. It’s optional, but strongly recommended if you want a smoother, cheaper experience.
Tip: book in advance, in peak season these small-group tours sell out quickly.
A calm turquoise lagoon surrounded by cliffs with extremely clear water. It’s usually the first swim stop of the day, and early timing makes a big difference. The water is still, visibility is high, and it feels more open before other boats arrive.
Famous for its bright turquoise water and shallow sandy seabed, the Blue Lagoon is visually striking from the moment you arrive. The central pier area gets crowded quickly, but the experience changes completely when you swim along the edges. Away from the main docking point, the water becomes clearer and quieter, with small natural pockets where you can actually enjoy the setting instead of just passing through.
Tip: Avoid the main dock and move immediately along the rocky sides for a much better experience.
The coastline around Comino is full of sea caves and rock formations carved by wind and water over time. Speedboat tours pass close to these areas, giving a completely different perspective of the island beyond the lagoons. It’s a short but visually powerful part of the route, especially when the sea is calm.
Most small-group speedboat tours return to Sliema by early afternoon (14:30), allowing time to relax along the waterfront or continue exploring Malta at a slower pace. The waterfront in Sliema or nearby St Julian’s is ideal for a relaxed afternoon: cafés, swimming spots, and long walks (or more swimming) by the sea.
Tip: Keep this afternoon unplanned, it works best as a natural wind-down.
After the excitement of Comino, this day slows the pace down and explores a completely different side of Malta — the dramatic south coast. Start with the famous Blue Grotto viewpoint and boat ride, then leave room for adventure as you discover the island’s hidden swimming spots and crystal-clear waters. The day is designed to be flexible: spend more time swimming if you find a beautiful spot, enjoy a slow seafood lunch in Marsaxlokk, or visit St Peter’s Pool if you still have energy. Unlike the busy highlights of the previous days, this is a day to connect with Malta’s natural side, take things slower, and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle.
Getting to Blue Grotto Viewpoint from Sliema usually requires a connection and takes around 45–60 minutes depending on traffic. The budget option is taking a bus to Valletta and then changing to bus 74, which stops near the Blue Grotto viewpoint.
Tip: Public transport works well during the day, but connections can be slow outside peak frequency times, so private transport is often worth it for this route. You can rent a car for the day or use Bolt (very convenient and easy).
This is one of the most impressive coastal views in Malta. From above, the sea shifts between deep blue and turquoise depending on sunlight and wind conditions. It’s a quick stop, but an essential one for understanding the raw coastline of the south.
Tip: Arrive early. The light is better, it’s quieter, and the sea is usually calmer.
From the viewpoint, walk down the road towards Wied iż-Żurrieq harbour (around 10–15 minutes)
The Blue Grotto boat trip is absolutely worth adding to your day. The experience is simple: a short local boat ride through the surrounding sea caves, but the colours are unforgettable. Once inside the caves, the sunlight reflects through the water creating intense blue tones that are difficult to appreciate from land. Seeing the coastline from the water also reveals small hidden bays and swimming spots that you would otherwise miss.
Tip: Bring cash because tickets are purchased locally and card payment is not accepted.
Optional Adventure - Hidden Coastal Swim: If you enjoy a bit of adventure, the Blue Grotto area has some incredible swimming spots away from the main tourist areas. We followed a rocky coastal trail down from the cliffs and spent much longer than expected swimming in the clear water. It became one of those unplanned moments that ends up being a highlight of the trip, no crowds, no organised beach, just Malta’s coastline at its most natural.
- Important: We only recommend this if you are comfortable with uneven terrain and a more adventurous walk. The paths are not official trails, there is no signage, and the rocks can be slippery and sharp. You also need proper shoes, water and snackes (and snorkelling gear if you have it!)
- How to get down: From the main Blue Grotto viewpoint parking/road area, you return slightly along the main road and look for a steeper natural descent on the right-hand side of the cliff area. This is an informal rocky path used by locals and divers that leads down toward the coastline and lower bay. This leads to natural swimming areas around the bay, not inside the caves themselves.
Bolt / Taxi is the best option here as bus connections are possible but slower.
After a full day outdoors, return to Sliema and enjoy a slower evening. Explore the other side of the waterfront, where you will find restaurants, swimming areas, and relaxed seaside spots perfect for dinner or a drink.
If you still have energy, St Julian’s is nearby and offers a livelier atmosphere with bars and nightlife. We chose a quiet evening instead. After hours walking under the Maltese sun, the perfect ending was simply good food and rest before another big day.
Gozo is the most complete island day of the itinerary and rewards an early start. The experience begins with the first ferry from Malta, arriving in a quiet and slow-moving island before the crowds. The morning is dedicated to the Inland Sea and Blue Hole, where calm waters and dramatic rock formations define the landscape at its best conditions. Midday shifts inland to Victoria and the Citadel for a slower break and panoramic views over the island. In the afternoon, the rhythm moves back to the coast at Ramla Bay, followed by the short hike to Tal-Mixta Cave for one of Gozo’s most iconic viewpoints. The day finishes with a return ferry in the evening, closing a full loop of the island with a strong contrast between coastal nature, historic towns, and quiet rural roads.
This is where you begin your journey to Gozo.
Gozo is best done early. We reccommend taking the first ferry of the day (we got the 5:45am)!. This gives you a big advantage: quieter roads, empty viewpoints, and a much more relaxed experience before the island gets busy. Going this early also means you can catch beautiful sunrise views during the crossing and as you arrive, with soft light over the sea and coastline before the island fully wakes up.
Once you arrive in Mġarr, the island feels quiet, slow, and completely different from mainland Malta. There are not many tourist so early in the day.
From Mġarr terminal, take a bus towards Victoria (Rabat, Gozo). Then connect to buses heading toward Dwejra / Inland Sea / Blue Hole area. Key routes generally include Mġarr to Victoria (main hub) and Victoria to Dwejra (Inland Sea + Blue Hole).
If you prefer a more comfortable and flexible option, especially if travelling in a larger group, you can also book a private tour directly from Mġarr terminal (usually up to 4 people per vehicle). This takes you directly to the main highlights around Gozo without needing to manage bus connections. However, we preferred exploring by public bus at our own pace, which allowed more flexibility and a more local experience.
Tip: If timing allows, you can stop in Victoria briefly for coffee before continuing west.
A calm lagoon in western Gozo connected to the open sea through a narrow natural tunnel carved into the cliffs. It is part of the wider Dwejra Bay area, a dramatic coastal landscape on the island. The lagoon is enclosed by high limestone cliffs, creating a sheltered body of water where conditions are usually much calmer than the open sea. Small local boats pass through the tunnel, offering short trips out to the open coastline and nearby sea caves. The surrounding area also includes rugged cliffs, walking paths, and viewpoints over the open Mediterranean. Early in the morning, the atmosphere is especially quiet. The water is still, boats move slowly, and the whole area feels almost private before tour groups arrive later in the day.
Tip: Cash is required for local boat rides, and prices are usually paid directly to boat operators on site.
One of the most impressive natural swimming spots in Malta. A deep circular rock formation opening into the open sea, with crystal-clear visibility and dramatic underwater rock structures. We highly reccommend doing it early in the morning and enjoying a swim that feels almost private.
From Dwejra/Blue Hole stop, take a bus back to Victoria (Rabat, Gozo). From Victoria bus terminal, the Citadel is a short uphill walk (10–15 minutes).
The historic centre of Gozo, sitting on a hill overlooking the entire island. Inside the Citadel, narrow streets and old stone buildings create a calm contrast to the coastal areas. It’s a good midday stop to slow down and explore a bit of history. You can walk around Victoria and stop at cafés or restaurants, or, if you’ve brought food, continue on to the next stop and have lunch there instead.
Walk back to Victoria bus terminal, then take a bus towards Ramla Bay (Nadur / Xaghra direction). Get off at the Ramla Beach stop (last one) and walk down to the beach.
One of Gozo’s most beautiful beaches, known for its red sand and wide open bay. The water is shallow at the edges and deepens gradually, making it perfect for a long swim or just relaxing after a full day of exploring. By arriving later in the day, you avoid peak crowds and get a more relaxed swimming experience, since most people do this as a first stop. For an even quieter swim, it can also be saved for after a stop at Tal-Mixta Cave on the way back.
Short uphill walk from Ramla Beach (15-20 minutes, steep). From the beach, walk to the far end and follow the path that climbs up the hillside. This is the trail leading to Tal-Mixta Cave.
The route is straightforward but exposed in parts, so proper shoes and water are recommended.
A natural cave opening that frames Ramla Bay perfectly. The view from inside the cave is one of the most photographed scenes in Gozo, combining cliffs, sand, and sea in one wide panorama. From here, you can walk back down and stop for a quieter swim along Ramla Beach.
From Ramla Bay, walk back up to the main road to the same bus stop where you arrived and take a bus towards Victoria (Rabat, Gozo). From Victoria, change to a bus heading to Mġarr Harbour (Gozo Ferry Terminal). The bus terminates directly at the harbour, so you can simply stay on until the final stop.
The return journey feels calm and satisfying after a full day of island exploration. Gozo is best experienced early and efficiently, and returning in the evening gives you time to fully reset.
The final day slows everything down and shifts away from the coast into Malta’s inland history. The morning is dedicated to Mdina, the Silent City, where narrow stone streets, high walls, and complete stillness create a very different atmosphere from the rest of the island. A short optional stop in Rabat adds a more local contrast before heading back to Sliema. The afternoon is kept light for a final walk along the waterfront, a relaxed meal, or one last view over Valletta across the harbour, bringing the trip full circle. Adjust the plan to fit your departure time.
There are direct buses from Sliema to Mdina, or you can get a connection through Valleta. A quicker option, but more expensive, is using Bolt.
Mdina feels completely different from the rest of Malta. A quiet, fortified city with narrow stone streets, no traffic, and a stillness that immediately stands out. It’s known as the “Silent City” for a reason, everything feels slower and more contained. Mdina is built for wandering. Narrow alleys, high stone walls, and quiet courtyards create a completely different atmosphere from coastal Malta. Every corner feels still and almost untouched.
Tip: Visit early morning to avoid tour groups and midday heat if travelling on summer.
A more local and lived-in town next to Mdina. Less polished, more everyday life with small cafés, bakeries, and residential streets give a contrast to Mdina’s silence.
Tip: Only worth it if you have extra time. Mdina is the main highlight.
Return to Sliema for one final coastal moment. This is the perfect place to slow down after the inland visit: a final walk along the promenade, a relaxed lunch by the sea, or a last swim if time allows. It brings the trip full circle, ending where it began: overlooking Valletta across the harbour.
Getting back to the airport is simple and direct. The same transport system used on arrival makes departure easy, with frequent bus connections from Sliema or quick Bolt transfers depending on timing.
Leaving Malta is straightforward, but the final drive past the coastline is a reminder of how much of the island is defined by sea views, limestone cliffs, and short distances between completely different landscapes. You leave from the same place you arrived. One airport, one island, and a route that connects everything from historic cities to natural swimming spots within minutes. Be sure to arrive at the airport at least 2/3 hours before your flight.
Malta is small, but it never feels repetitive. Every day looks and feels different — from Valletta’s history and Mdina’s silence, to Comino’s clear water and Gozo’s slower pace. Everything is close, but the contrast between places is what makes the trip work.
The rhythm of the trip is simple: early starts, ferries, and time in the water. Mornings are for exploring before the crowds and heat, afternoons naturally slow down around beaches or coastal villages, and evenings are for sunsets over the harbour in Sliema. Nothing feels complicated, but timing changes everything.
What makes Malta special is how much you can fit into a short time without needing to rush in a stressful way. You can be in a historic city in the morning, swimming in a lagoon by midday, and watching sunset over Valletta the same day. It’s all connected, and the ferries make it feel effortless.
In the end, it’s not a destination you “tick off” — it’s one you experience in layers. The more you move through it, the more it opens up.
Malta is one of those places that packs a lot into a very small area. In a few days you can go from fortified cities and quiet medieval streets to turquoise lagoons, cliff swimming spots, and open natural landscapes. All without needing a car. This itinerary is built to make that feel easy. Sliema works as the base because it keeps everything connected: ferries straight into Valletta, simple bus routes across the island, and a waterfront that becomes part of your daily routine. From there, each day follows a clear flow: early starts, efficient transport, and a mix of exploring and time in the water. Valletta and Mdina bring the history and architecture. Comino is all about swimming in clear water and moving between lagoons. Gozo is the nature day, slower, more open, with cliffs, beaches, and viewpoints that feel more raw and less built up compared to the mainland. The idea isn’t to rush or overpack days, but to move through the island in a way that feels natural. Distances are short, ferries are frequent, and everything connects easily if you time it well. Done right, Malta feels like a combination of multiple trips in one. History, sea, and nature all within a few minutes of each other.
Your adventure begins as soon as you land in Malta. From the airport, head directly to Sliema using the Airport Direct bus, Bolt, or taxi, depending on your arrival time and energy. Once you reach your base, check in and settle into the rhythm of the island. Sliema is the perfect starting point. Everything is walkable, the waterfront is right in front of you, and Valletta sits just across the harbour. If you feel like exploring, take a slow walk along the promenade, grab your first pastizzi from a local bakery, and ease into the Mediterranean pace. If you arrive late or feel tired, simply head straight to your accommodation and save the exploring for tomorrow. The island will be waiting. Today’s program depends on your arrival time.
Malta is very easy to navigate on arrival because there is only one international airport. From here, public buses or taxis connect you directly to the main tourist areas like Sliema and Valletta. Even without a car, getting around the island is straightforward and affordable.
You can take the Airport Direct TD3 bus from Malta airport to Sliema for a direct, convenient, and affordable journey. The bus runs every 30 minutes, operates daily and takes approximately 25-45 minutes depending on traffic. You can buy the ticket on board or buy the Tallinja card at the airport. There are several options for flexible travel cards, you can check them in the link.
Tip: Services like Bolt operate in Malta and are usually cheaper than airport taxis. If arriving late evening, Bolt is usually the most practical option.
We chose Sliema as our base in Malta and it turned out to be one of the best decisions of the trip. It is central, well connected, and has some of the best views across the harbour towards Valletta. Everything is walkable - ferries, restaurants, supermarkets, and the waterfront promenade. Staying near the ferry makes Valletta and the Three Cities extremely easy to access, as well as the ferry to Gozo!
Tip: If travelling on a budget and planning to cook, LIDL is within walking distance and is one of the cheapest supermarkets in the area.
First food stop in Malta: pastizzi
Pastizzi are one of Malta’s most iconic street foods - flaky pastry parcels typically filled with ricotta or mushy peas. They’re extremely cheap and delicious, usually around €0.70 to €1 each, which makes them easy to keep coming back to - we ended up eating them almost every day during the trip. We tried them at Jeff's Pastizzeria, known for serving them fresh and consistently. There are many pastizzerias around Malta, so it’s worth trying them from different local bakeries rather than sticking to one spot.
Tip: look for queues - locals usually indicate the best and freshest places to get them.
The Sliema waterfront is the perfect introduction to Malta. A long seaside promenade with open views of Valletta, traditional boats in the harbour, and a calm Mediterranean atmosphere. This is where the island starts to make sense - ferries crossing constantly, people walking at sunset, cafés opening along the water, and the feeling that everything important is just across the harbour.
Tip: Use this walk to orient yourself and check ferry schedules for the following day. The crossing to Valletta is very frequent and takes roughly 5–10 minutes depending on the service.
End the first day with one of the most iconic views in Malta. As the sun sets, Valletta glows across the harbour in warm golden light, reflecting perfectly on the water. It’s a simple moment, but it instantly defines the trip - calm, cinematic, and unforgettable.
This is a full immersion day into Malta’s history, designed around the natural rhythm of the Grand Harbour. The morning starts early in Valletta, when the streets are quiet and the limestone is still cool and empty. From the ferry arrival, the route naturally flows uphill to Upper Barrakka Gardens for the first panoramic view of the island, followed by slow exploration through Valletta’s compact streets and key landmarks like the Grandmaster’s Palace and St John’s Co-Cathedral. After midday, the experience shifts across the harbour to the Three Cities, where the pace drops completely - quieter streets, local life, and a long waterfront lunch facing Valletta. The day finishes back in the capital with Fort St Elmo in the softer afternoon light before returning to Sliema by ferry at sunset.
One of the easiest and most scenic ways to reach Valletta is by ferry from Sliema. The crossing is short but beautiful, giving you constant views of the harbour and the fortified skyline of Valletta approaching from the water. We recommend going early in the morning (around 8-9am) to avoid crowds and enjoy the calmer streets in Valletta.
Tip: If you like sunrises and quieter moments, an early walk (or run) along the Sliema promenade is worth it - the same waterfront that later becomes busy in the afternoon feels completely different at sunrise, with soft light, calm sea views, and almost no people around.
You can buy the return tickets at the Sliema ferry terminal or use the Tallinja card if you decided to buy one.
The arrival point immediately connects you to Valletta’s main streets. From here, the city opens up into a compact grid of historic lanes, viewpoints, and landmarks. Everything is walkable and close together.
5–10 min walk uphill from Valletta ferry terminal.
A beautiful garden and viewpoint in Valletta, overlooking the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities, offering one of the best first panoramic views of Malta’s historic core. From here you get a clear sense of the layered fortifications, harbours, and limestone architecture that define the area. The gardens were originally created in the 17th century as a private space for the Knights of St. John, and later opened to the public. Today, they are one of the most visited viewpoints in Valletta. A key highlight is the saluting battery located below the gardens. This historic cannon platform fires daily at midday (traditionally 12:00), a ritual that dates back to the British period. The cannons are positioned just above sea level and were historically used for signalling arriving ships and military salutes across the harbour.
Tip: Arrive before mid-morning cruise crowds for clean photos and space. You can come back later if you wish to watch the saluting ceremony.
Walk through Republic Street and side alleys from Upper Barrakka.
Republic Street is the main spine of Valletta, but the best experience comes from branching into smaller streets that show the city’s character. Valletta feels like an open-air museum - compact, detailed, and best explored slowly in the early morning before heat and crowds build up. You can move without a fixed plan, but a few streets are especially worth weaving into your walk:
- Strait Street: One of the most atmospheric streets in Valletta, once known for nightlife and sailors’ bars. Today it’s quieter in the morning, with tall stone buildings and tight proportions that show the city’s older character.
- Merchant Street: A livelier street with cafés, small shops, and market energy. Good for a coffee stop while staying in the historic core.
- Side alleys off Republic Street: These are where Valletta feels most authentic: colourful balconies, carved wooden doors, flower pots, and narrow limestone corridors with almost no tourists early in the day.
You can spend time simply walking without a fixed plan, stopping for coffee and taking photos in every direction.
The Grandmaster’s Palace is one of the most important historic buildings in Valletta and a key stop to understand Malta’s past. It was originally built as the residence of the Grand Masters of the Knights of St. John and later served as the Governor’s Palace under British rule. Today, it also hosts the Office of the President of Malta. Inside, it is bigger than it looks from outside. The main highlight is the Armoury, with a strong collection of weapons and armour from the Knights’ era. It feels less like a traditional museum and more like walking through a functioning historic building that is still in official use.
Tickets: Tickets can be bought directly on arrival, so there’s no strict need to pre-book unless you are visiting in peak season or with a group. Entry is usually flexible, and queues are minimal outside high tourist hours. Official information and updates can be found in this link.
St John’s Co-Cathedral is one of the most impressive interiors in Europe. From the outside, it looks simple and heavy, but inside it is completely different. Richly decorated marble floors, detailed Baroque gold work, and dramatic interiors that feel overwhelming in the best way. A major highlight is Caravaggio’s famous painting, “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist,” which is one of the cathedral’s most significant artworks and alone makes the visit worth it. This is a paid entry, but it is one of the few places in Valletta that genuinely feels essential rather than optional.
Tickets: Tickets can usually be bought on arrival, but it’s worth going earlier in the day to avoid tour groups. If visiting in peak season, online booking can help skip queues. You can buy tickets online here.
Walk down to Valletta - Three Cities ferry terminal. You can buy return tickets here or use the Tallinja card.
Another short ferry ride takes you across the Grand Harbour to the Three Cities. The view of Valletta from the water is just beautiful.
The Three Cities feel completely different from Valletta: quieter, more local, and slower in pace. Narrow streets, old stone buildings, and everyday life make the area feel less tourist-driven and more authentic. The main areas are Birgu (Vittoriosa), Bormla (Cospicua), and Senglea (Isla), all connected along the harbour. In Birgu, the waterfront is ideal for lunch, with restaurants facing directly across the Grand Harbour towards Valletta. A key highlight here is Fort St Angelo, offering strong views over the harbour and a sense of the area’s military history. In Senglea, Gardjola Gardens is the main viewpoint, with panoramic views and historic watchtower features.
Tip: Walkind around the Three Cities is optional, best for when you have extra energy for walking and want a deeper, more local exploration outside Valletta.
Return back to Valletta. The return crossing gives another chance to see Valletta from the water, especially beautiful in soft afternoon light.
Once back in Valletta, instead of heading straight to the ferry, it’s worth stopping at Fort St Elmo. The late afternoon light makes this a great time to visit, especially after returning from the Three Cities. You can also pause for a coffee or gelato in Valletta before or after exploring the fort. Inside, it’s one of the most impressive museums in Malta, giving a clear look into the Great Siege and Malta’s military history. The fort itself is in a powerful location at the tip of the peninsula, with views over both harbours.
Suggested timing: Allow enough time here (minimum 1 hour and ideally 2 to 2.5 hours) — it is larger than it first appears.
Tickets: Entry is paid and can usually be purchased on arrival. Online booking is also available via this link, which can be useful in peak season but is not essential most of the year.
Tip: The suggested flow is to visit in the late afternoon after exploring the Three Cities and Valletta centre. However, if preferred, it can also be done earlier in the day, before or after Upper Barrakka Gardens, depending on how you structure your route.
After a full day exploring the Three Cities and Valletta, you can either make your way back to Sliema or stay and explore the evening in Valletta. This is when the city changes completely — the streets get warmer and more atmospheric. Cafés and restaurants fill the steps and narrow streets, and the whole city feels alive but relaxed at the same time. It’s one of the nicest moments of the trip: no rush and dinner in the middle of historic streets instead of a restaurant setting.
End the day with a calm ferry ride back to Sliema.
This is the most energetic day of the itinerary and a full shift into Malta’s natural side. The day starts early with a small-group speedboat tour from Sliema, designed to reach Comino before the main crowds arrive. The route flows through crystal-clear swim stops at Crystal Lagoon, Blue Lagoon, and surrounding coves, where the experience is focused on swimming, cliffs, and open water rather than beaches or facilities. The boat itself becomes part of the experience, with a relaxed atmosphere, and easy movement between locations. After returning to Sliema in the early afternoon, the rest of the day is intentionally left open for recovery — either a slow waterfront walk, a swim near St Julian’s, or simply time to relax after a high-intensity morning on the water.
Short walk to Sliema waterfront where the tour departs from.
The most efficient way to visit Comino is a small-group speedboat tour (around 40 people max). It completely changes the experience. Faster travel, fewer crowds at stops, and more time in the water.
We highly recommend Elvis Tours (or similar operators). You can check the itinerary and prices in this link.
The experience is fast, well organised, and feels more like a day out with a small group than a standard tour. The itinerary typically includes multiple swim stops, caves, and time around the Blue Lagoon, with an easy flow between locations. A key advantage is the included snorkelling gear, making it easy to jump straight into each stop without preparation. You will have options for food and drinks at the Blue Lagoon, but they are limited, expensive, and often involve long queues in peak season. Bringing your own snacks and water avoids waiting and lets you spend more time swimming and exploring. It’s optional, but strongly recommended if you want a smoother, cheaper experience.
Tip: book in advance, in peak season these small-group tours sell out quickly.
A calm turquoise lagoon surrounded by cliffs with extremely clear water. It’s usually the first swim stop of the day, and early timing makes a big difference. The water is still, visibility is high, and it feels more open before other boats arrive.
Famous for its bright turquoise water and shallow sandy seabed, the Blue Lagoon is visually striking from the moment you arrive. The central pier area gets crowded quickly, but the experience changes completely when you swim along the edges. Away from the main docking point, the water becomes clearer and quieter, with small natural pockets where you can actually enjoy the setting instead of just passing through.
Tip: Avoid the main dock and move immediately along the rocky sides for a much better experience.
The coastline around Comino is full of sea caves and rock formations carved by wind and water over time. Speedboat tours pass close to these areas, giving a completely different perspective of the island beyond the lagoons. It’s a short but visually powerful part of the route, especially when the sea is calm.
Most small-group speedboat tours return to Sliema by early afternoon (14:30), allowing time to relax along the waterfront or continue exploring Malta at a slower pace. The waterfront in Sliema or nearby St Julian’s is ideal for a relaxed afternoon: cafés, swimming spots, and long walks (or more swimming) by the sea.
Tip: Keep this afternoon unplanned, it works best as a natural wind-down.
After the excitement of Comino, this day slows the pace down and explores a completely different side of Malta — the dramatic south coast. Start with the famous Blue Grotto viewpoint and boat ride, then leave room for adventure as you discover the island’s hidden swimming spots and crystal-clear waters. The day is designed to be flexible: spend more time swimming if you find a beautiful spot, enjoy a slow seafood lunch in Marsaxlokk, or visit St Peter’s Pool if you still have energy. Unlike the busy highlights of the previous days, this is a day to connect with Malta’s natural side, take things slower, and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle.
Getting to Blue Grotto Viewpoint from Sliema usually requires a connection and takes around 45–60 minutes depending on traffic. The budget option is taking a bus to Valletta and then changing to bus 74, which stops near the Blue Grotto viewpoint.
Tip: Public transport works well during the day, but connections can be slow outside peak frequency times, so private transport is often worth it for this route. You can rent a car for the day or use Bolt (very convenient and easy).
This is one of the most impressive coastal views in Malta. From above, the sea shifts between deep blue and turquoise depending on sunlight and wind conditions. It’s a quick stop, but an essential one for understanding the raw coastline of the south.
Tip: Arrive early. The light is better, it’s quieter, and the sea is usually calmer.
From the viewpoint, walk down the road towards Wied iż-Żurrieq harbour (around 10–15 minutes)
The Blue Grotto boat trip is absolutely worth adding to your day. The experience is simple: a short local boat ride through the surrounding sea caves, but the colours are unforgettable. Once inside the caves, the sunlight reflects through the water creating intense blue tones that are difficult to appreciate from land. Seeing the coastline from the water also reveals small hidden bays and swimming spots that you would otherwise miss.
Tip: Bring cash because tickets are purchased locally and card payment is not accepted.
Optional Adventure - Hidden Coastal Swim: If you enjoy a bit of adventure, the Blue Grotto area has some incredible swimming spots away from the main tourist areas. We followed a rocky coastal trail down from the cliffs and spent much longer than expected swimming in the clear water. It became one of those unplanned moments that ends up being a highlight of the trip, no crowds, no organised beach, just Malta’s coastline at its most natural.
- Important: We only recommend this if you are comfortable with uneven terrain and a more adventurous walk. The paths are not official trails, there is no signage, and the rocks can be slippery and sharp. You also need proper shoes, water and snackes (and snorkelling gear if you have it!)
- How to get down: From the main Blue Grotto viewpoint parking/road area, you return slightly along the main road and look for a steeper natural descent on the right-hand side of the cliff area. This is an informal rocky path used by locals and divers that leads down toward the coastline and lower bay. This leads to natural swimming areas around the bay, not inside the caves themselves.
Bolt / Taxi is the best option here as bus connections are possible but slower.
After a full day outdoors, return to Sliema and enjoy a slower evening. Explore the other side of the waterfront, where you will find restaurants, swimming areas, and relaxed seaside spots perfect for dinner or a drink.
If you still have energy, St Julian’s is nearby and offers a livelier atmosphere with bars and nightlife. We chose a quiet evening instead. After hours walking under the Maltese sun, the perfect ending was simply good food and rest before another big day.
Gozo is the most complete island day of the itinerary and rewards an early start. The experience begins with the first ferry from Malta, arriving in a quiet and slow-moving island before the crowds. The morning is dedicated to the Inland Sea and Blue Hole, where calm waters and dramatic rock formations define the landscape at its best conditions. Midday shifts inland to Victoria and the Citadel for a slower break and panoramic views over the island. In the afternoon, the rhythm moves back to the coast at Ramla Bay, followed by the short hike to Tal-Mixta Cave for one of Gozo’s most iconic viewpoints. The day finishes with a return ferry in the evening, closing a full loop of the island with a strong contrast between coastal nature, historic towns, and quiet rural roads.
This is where you begin your journey to Gozo.
Gozo is best done early. We reccommend taking the first ferry of the day (we got the 5:45am)!. This gives you a big advantage: quieter roads, empty viewpoints, and a much more relaxed experience before the island gets busy. Going this early also means you can catch beautiful sunrise views during the crossing and as you arrive, with soft light over the sea and coastline before the island fully wakes up.
Once you arrive in Mġarr, the island feels quiet, slow, and completely different from mainland Malta. There are not many tourist so early in the day.
From Mġarr terminal, take a bus towards Victoria (Rabat, Gozo). Then connect to buses heading toward Dwejra / Inland Sea / Blue Hole area. Key routes generally include Mġarr to Victoria (main hub) and Victoria to Dwejra (Inland Sea + Blue Hole).
If you prefer a more comfortable and flexible option, especially if travelling in a larger group, you can also book a private tour directly from Mġarr terminal (usually up to 4 people per vehicle). This takes you directly to the main highlights around Gozo without needing to manage bus connections. However, we preferred exploring by public bus at our own pace, which allowed more flexibility and a more local experience.
Tip: If timing allows, you can stop in Victoria briefly for coffee before continuing west.
A calm lagoon in western Gozo connected to the open sea through a narrow natural tunnel carved into the cliffs. It is part of the wider Dwejra Bay area, a dramatic coastal landscape on the island. The lagoon is enclosed by high limestone cliffs, creating a sheltered body of water where conditions are usually much calmer than the open sea. Small local boats pass through the tunnel, offering short trips out to the open coastline and nearby sea caves. The surrounding area also includes rugged cliffs, walking paths, and viewpoints over the open Mediterranean. Early in the morning, the atmosphere is especially quiet. The water is still, boats move slowly, and the whole area feels almost private before tour groups arrive later in the day.
Tip: Cash is required for local boat rides, and prices are usually paid directly to boat operators on site.
One of the most impressive natural swimming spots in Malta. A deep circular rock formation opening into the open sea, with crystal-clear visibility and dramatic underwater rock structures. We highly reccommend doing it early in the morning and enjoying a swim that feels almost private.
From Dwejra/Blue Hole stop, take a bus back to Victoria (Rabat, Gozo). From Victoria bus terminal, the Citadel is a short uphill walk (10–15 minutes).
The historic centre of Gozo, sitting on a hill overlooking the entire island. Inside the Citadel, narrow streets and old stone buildings create a calm contrast to the coastal areas. It’s a good midday stop to slow down and explore a bit of history. You can walk around Victoria and stop at cafés or restaurants, or, if you’ve brought food, continue on to the next stop and have lunch there instead.
Walk back to Victoria bus terminal, then take a bus towards Ramla Bay (Nadur / Xaghra direction). Get off at the Ramla Beach stop (last one) and walk down to the beach.
One of Gozo’s most beautiful beaches, known for its red sand and wide open bay. The water is shallow at the edges and deepens gradually, making it perfect for a long swim or just relaxing after a full day of exploring. By arriving later in the day, you avoid peak crowds and get a more relaxed swimming experience, since most people do this as a first stop. For an even quieter swim, it can also be saved for after a stop at Tal-Mixta Cave on the way back.
Short uphill walk from Ramla Beach (15-20 minutes, steep). From the beach, walk to the far end and follow the path that climbs up the hillside. This is the trail leading to Tal-Mixta Cave.
The route is straightforward but exposed in parts, so proper shoes and water are recommended.
A natural cave opening that frames Ramla Bay perfectly. The view from inside the cave is one of the most photographed scenes in Gozo, combining cliffs, sand, and sea in one wide panorama. From here, you can walk back down and stop for a quieter swim along Ramla Beach.
From Ramla Bay, walk back up to the main road to the same bus stop where you arrived and take a bus towards Victoria (Rabat, Gozo). From Victoria, change to a bus heading to Mġarr Harbour (Gozo Ferry Terminal). The bus terminates directly at the harbour, so you can simply stay on until the final stop.
The return journey feels calm and satisfying after a full day of island exploration. Gozo is best experienced early and efficiently, and returning in the evening gives you time to fully reset.
The final day slows everything down and shifts away from the coast into Malta’s inland history. The morning is dedicated to Mdina, the Silent City, where narrow stone streets, high walls, and complete stillness create a very different atmosphere from the rest of the island. A short optional stop in Rabat adds a more local contrast before heading back to Sliema. The afternoon is kept light for a final walk along the waterfront, a relaxed meal, or one last view over Valletta across the harbour, bringing the trip full circle. Adjust the plan to fit your departure time.
There are direct buses from Sliema to Mdina, or you can get a connection through Valleta. A quicker option, but more expensive, is using Bolt.
Mdina feels completely different from the rest of Malta. A quiet, fortified city with narrow stone streets, no traffic, and a stillness that immediately stands out. It’s known as the “Silent City” for a reason, everything feels slower and more contained. Mdina is built for wandering. Narrow alleys, high stone walls, and quiet courtyards create a completely different atmosphere from coastal Malta. Every corner feels still and almost untouched.
Tip: Visit early morning to avoid tour groups and midday heat if travelling on summer.
A more local and lived-in town next to Mdina. Less polished, more everyday life with small cafés, bakeries, and residential streets give a contrast to Mdina’s silence.
Tip: Only worth it if you have extra time. Mdina is the main highlight.
Return to Sliema for one final coastal moment. This is the perfect place to slow down after the inland visit: a final walk along the promenade, a relaxed lunch by the sea, or a last swim if time allows. It brings the trip full circle, ending where it began: overlooking Valletta across the harbour.
Getting back to the airport is simple and direct. The same transport system used on arrival makes departure easy, with frequent bus connections from Sliema or quick Bolt transfers depending on timing.
Leaving Malta is straightforward, but the final drive past the coastline is a reminder of how much of the island is defined by sea views, limestone cliffs, and short distances between completely different landscapes. You leave from the same place you arrived. One airport, one island, and a route that connects everything from historic cities to natural swimming spots within minutes. Be sure to arrive at the airport at least 2/3 hours before your flight.
Malta is small, but it never feels repetitive. Every day looks and feels different — from Valletta’s history and Mdina’s silence, to Comino’s clear water and Gozo’s slower pace. Everything is close, but the contrast between places is what makes the trip work.
The rhythm of the trip is simple: early starts, ferries, and time in the water. Mornings are for exploring before the crowds and heat, afternoons naturally slow down around beaches or coastal villages, and evenings are for sunsets over the harbour in Sliema. Nothing feels complicated, but timing changes everything.
What makes Malta special is how much you can fit into a short time without needing to rush in a stressful way. You can be in a historic city in the morning, swimming in a lagoon by midday, and watching sunset over Valletta the same day. It’s all connected, and the ferries make it feel effortless.
In the end, it’s not a destination you “tick off” — it’s one you experience in layers. The more you move through it, the more it opens up.
