Searching for the perfect 7-day itinerary for Malta? This is the only guide you’ll need!
This stunning archipelago in the central Mediterranean is brimming with history, culture, and phenomenal landscapes.
From its ancient walled cities and vibrant harbors to its pristine beaches and mouthwatering cuisine, Malta offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
In this 7 day Malta itinerary, we’ll guide you through the must-see sights, hidden gems, and local favorites that will make your Maltese adventure truly exceptional.
Read on to discover everything you need to know for spending a week in Malta including a day-by-day itinerary, unmissable attractions to see, the best guided tours, and much more!
OVERVIEW: 7-DAY ITINERARY FOR MALTA
Let’s start this guide with the essentials for planning your Malta trip itinerary, such as how to get here, getting around Malta, where to stay, and the best time to visit.
WHERE IS MALTA?
Malta is a small archipelago located in the central Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily and north of Africa. It consists of three main islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino.
Malta has a rich history influenced by various cultures including the Phoenicians, Romans, Moors, Knights of Saint John, French, and British. For this reason, it’s one of the most interesting places to visit in Europe.
Click here for an interactive map of Malta.
HOW TO GET TO MALTA?
Getting to Malta is straightforward, primarily through Malta International Airport (MLA) located near the capital, Valletta.
The airport is well-connected with direct flights from major European cities and some North African and Middle Eastern destinations. Airlines like Air Malta, Ryanair, and EasyJet offer frequent services.
HOW TO GET AROUND MALTA?
Want to know how to get around Malta? Conveniently, there are several transportation options such as rental cars, public buses, taxis, and guided tours.
RENTAL CAR:
Firstly, renting a car at Malta Airport gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
This is the option we went for, and it was indeed convenient and affordable, but just be prepared for narrow roads and limited parking in some areas.
BUSES:
The public bus system is efficient and covers most tourist spots around the country costing just €2 – €3 per ride.
Another great option is the Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus which is an excellent and affordable way to visit key tourist spots.
TAXIS:
Taxis and rideshare companies like Uber are readily available throughout Malta.
Bear in mind that a 30-minute taxi ride can cost anywhere between €30 – €50 for a one-way trip, sometimes even more in the summertime, so if the budget is tight, plan to rent a car or use public transport instead.
GUIDED TOURS:
For specific destinations like the Three Cities, Mdina, Gozo, and Comino, guided tours are pretty cheap in Malta and they’re all great!
We’ve listed all the best tours throughout this 7 days in Malta itinerary.
IS IT WORTH RENTING A CAR IN MALTA?
Yes, when planning your itinerary for Malta, renting a car is worth it if you prefer more flexibility as opposed to relying on public transport or taxis during your time here.
If driving isn’t an option, guided tours to key spots such as Mdina, Gozo, and Comino offer a hassle-free alternative.
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BEST TIME TO VISIT MALTA?
The best time to visit Malta is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when you’ll find pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
These months offer ideal conditions for exploring the outdoor attractions and enjoying the beaches without the intense heat of summer.
On the other hand, visiting during the summertime (June to August) is also a great time if you love the heat and don’t mind crowds.
However, be aware that June, July, and August are pretty busy periods so expect to pay more for hotels and car rentals.
The wintertime offers cooler weather, fewer crowds, and cheaper hotel deals, which is always a bonus.
WHERE TO STAY – ITINERARY FOR MALTA
Malta has countless places to stay, with the popular pick being in the capital city of Valletta.
Below is a list of recommended properties in Valletta suitable for luxury travelers, budget backpackers, and everyone in between.
For boutique stays, check out this post on the 15 Best Boutique Hotels in Valletta.
LUXURY: Rosselli AX Privilege
MID RANGE: The Londoner Hotel Sliema
BUDGET: Citizen Suites Aparthotel
FOR MORE OPTIONS, READ THIS GUIDE ON WHERE TO STAY IN MALTA – THE BEST AREAS
THE ULTIMATE 7 DAY MALTA ITINERARY
Now that we’ve covered the logistics and where to stay, let’s jump into the main topic – What to see in Malta in 7 days and a day-by-day Malta itinerary.
We’ll start this Malta trip itinerary in Valletta, the capital city, and I suggest staying here as a base and going on day outings throughout your 1 week in Malta.
Alternatively, if you have more time available, you can spend one or two nights on Gozo Island, which has plenty of nice spots to see.
DAY 1: EXPLORE VALLETTA CITY
Start your day in Valletta, Malta’s capital city, by visiting the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens.
These beautifully landscaped gardens offer panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities (which we’ll discuss on day 2), making them perfect for a relaxing morning stroll.
Next, head to St. John’s Co-Cathedral, one of the most impressive and unique pieces of Baroque architecture, where I’m sure you’ll take gorgeous photos.
The cathedral is renowned for its opulent interior and Caravaggio’s famous painting, “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist,” making it not only photogenic but also unique and meaningful.
After that, take a leisurely walk along Republic Street and Merchants Street, where you can shop for unique Maltese crafts, souvenirs, and high-quality fashion.
Another great activity is a walking tour around Valletta with an experienced guide. It includes all the spots mentioned above and more. Be sure to book in advance as spots sell out fast.
For lunch, you can either taste some local Maltese food or have a more diverse meal. Check out Kingsway Bar & Restaurant for healthy dishes or Galea’s Kitchen, which serves delicious Maltese treats.
Continue your exploration with a visit to Teatru Manoel, one of the oldest working theaters in Europe. This architectural gem hosts a variety of performances and offers guided tours.
The entrance fee is only €5 and you can spend anywhere between 30 minutes to one hour.
Afterward, head to the National Museum of Archaeology, located in the Auberge de Provence.
The museum houses a rich collection of artifacts from Malta’s prehistoric periods, and that’s great to see on the first of your 7 days in Malta.
Conclude your afternoon with dinner at a waterfront restaurant in Valletta. Browns Kitchen Valletta Waterfront is a great place to enjoy fresh seafood or other Maltese specialties with views over the marina.
After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Valletta waterfront, which is the perfect way to end day one on your itinerary for Malta.
If you’re up for a drink, then make sure to visit Carcass with great drinks, wine, and a superb location on Strait Street.
OTHER THINGS TO DO IN VALLETTA
As you expect, there are plenty of things to do in Malta’s capital.
We recommend staying in Valletta for this Malta itinerary 7 days, which means you’ll spend a lot of time here. So not to miss the best tourist spots, make sure to read this guide below.
READ MORE: 20 BEST THINGS TO DO IN VALLETTA, MALTA
DAY 2: THREE CITIES & NORTHERN BEACHES
Day 2 of this itinerary for Malta is all about the famous Three Cities of Malta.
Ferries frequently operate from Valletta to Vittoriosa (also known as Birgu), Senglea (also called Isla), and Cospicua (locally known as Bormla).
These historic cities offer a glimpse into Malta’s rich maritime past and you’ll love visiting for a few hours.
The best way to visit is on a 2-hour guided tour which is enough to see the main spots in the Three Cities. Not only is it affordable but your tour guide will teach you about the area’s history, which is just as important as exploring around.
Start with Vittoriosa, where you can visit Fort St. Angelo, a key stronghold during the Great Siege of 1565, as well as The Inquisitor’s Palace, where you can learn about the history of justice in Malta.
Apart from that, walk through Senglea (don’t miss the Gardjola Gardens!) and Cospicua, soaking in the authentic Maltese atmosphere and admiring the impressive fortifications.
If you’re into history, the Bir Mula Heritage Museum in Cospicua is a great place to stop and learn.
After spending 2 or 3 hours around the cities, you can either stay in Vittoriosa and have lunch around the waterfront or head back to Valletta.
After lunch, head to the northern beaches of Armier Bay and the nearby Coral Lagoon. Armier Bay is known for its incredible waters and relaxed atmosphere, and that’s a perfect spot to unwind and soak up the sun.
Next, visit the Coral Lagoon, a hidden gem near Armier Bay. You can either walk there or rent a kayak at Little Armier Beach, which costs only €20 per hour.
The Coral Lagoon and its Blue Hole are surrounded by rugged cliffs and offer a unique and picturesque setting.
It’s an excellent spot for photographing, swimming, and snorkeling in a more remote, secluded area of Malta.
READ MORE: CORAL LAGOON IN MALTA
End your day driving back to Valletta with a solid tan and a smile from the gorgeous beaches in Malta.
If there were one place we recommend for dinner it would be Sally Port Pizzeria, one of the best pizza places in Malta! It’s right on St Elmo’s Bay, so you can take a walk around after that or have a drink in one of the many bars around the city.
DAY 3: MARSAXLOKK, BLUE GROTTO & ST PETER’S POOL
The next places you can’t miss on this 7 day itinerary Malta are Marsaxlokk, the Blue Grotto, and St Peter’s Pool.
MARSAXLOKK:
Marsaxlokk is an authentic fishing village in Malta and it’s mostly known for its fish market, traditional fishing boats (called “luzzus”), and traditional vibes that you won’t find in Valletta.
You have three ways to get to Marsaxlokk including joining a guided tour, taking public transportation, or in a rental car.
Arrive early to explore the fish market and the surrounding area, where you can see the fresh catches of the day and purchase local goods and souvenirs.
Take a leisurely stroll along Marsaxlokk Harbour, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and admiring the beautiful scenery.
Of course, you can’t skip the iconic Church of Our Lady of Pompei, which is right next to the harbor, and it’s one of the most popular and unique tourist spots in the area.
BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANTS IN MARSAXLOKK
Before heading to the Blue Grotto, you may want to have lunch during your time in Marsaxlokk, and these are the best seafood restaurants where you’re guaranteed a fabulous meal;
BLUE GROTTO:
The Blue Grotto is a series of sea caves located on the southern coast of Malta. The best way to visit the Blue Grotto is by taking a boat tour which departs regularly from the nearby village of Wied iż-Żurrieq.
If you join a tour to Marsaxlokk, the boat tour of Blue Grotto is included, but if not, head to the boat service point in Wied lż-Žurrieq village where you can buy the tickets for just €10 per person for a 20-minute ride.
The boat ride offers stunning views of the dramatic cliffs, and you’ll get to see the vibrant blue hues inside the caves, which is simply incredible!
Also, make sure to visit the Blue Grotto viewpoint where you can take photos and marvel at the landscape from a different perspective.
ST PETER’S POOL:
To finish off day three on this 7 day Malta itinerary, don’t miss out on St Peter’s Pool, another incredible attraction located just seven minutes drive from Marsaxlokk.
This secluded natural pool is renowned for its striking rocky surroundings and upon arriving, you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking sights framed by naturally sculpted limestone.
It’s a nice addition to your one week Malta itinerary, where you can spend an hour or two snorkeling, swimming, jumping into the sea, or just relaxing on the rocks.
READ MORE: ST PETER’S POOL, MALTA
DAY 4: TAKE A DAY TRIP TO GOZO
Gozo is Malta’s sister island, located in the northern part of the country. Spending a day in Gozo is a must on your one week in Malta itinerary!
If you have a rental car, one of the ways to get there is by taking the car ferry to Gozo Island from Ċirkewwa in the north of Malta.
Without a rental car, taking the ferry from Valletta is much more convenient as you don’t have to drive to Ċirkewwa (which costs about €30 one way by taxi).
Alternatively, other ways to get to and around Gozo include the Hop On Hop Off bus, or better yet, joining a tour from Valletta which includes transportation by tuk-tuk.
BEST GOZO DAY TOUR
The best way to visit is by joining a Gozo Day Trip Tour by Tuk Tuk!
It includes popular spots in Gozo like Sanap Cliffs, Calypso Cave, and Ramla Bay, as well as hotel transfers, and an experienced guide!
Once you get to Gozo, there are many things to do and we recommend starting with Victoria (also called Rabat), the main city on the island.
Victoria is famous for its market squares, authentic shops selling crafts and local goods, and the majestic Citadel that looms over the cityscape.
The Citadel itself is a historic fortress that has been beautifully restored, offering visitors a glimpse into Gozo’s past.
Visit the Gran Castello Historic House, Citadel Ruins with gorgeous views of Gozo, and the Gozo Museum of Archaeology, all within the Citadel complex.
There’s more! Don’t miss St George Basilica known for its opulent interior decorated with fine marble, gold leaf decorations, and art pieces.
The Basilica houses a rich collection of art from prominent artists such as Mattia Preti and Giovanni Battista Conti, and you’ll see their work on both the ceiling and dome.
After having lunch in one of the restaurants in town (we recommend Roza Restaurant!) make your way to the Ggantija Temples, one of the oldest religious sites in the world, older than the Egyptian pyramids!
On top of that, you’ll want to visit Xerri’s Grotto & Ninu’s Cave, Calypso’s Cave Viewpoint, as well as the famous Ramla Beach.
Xerri’s Grotto and Ninu’s Cave are remarkable underground sites with stalactites and stalagmites all around, and both were discovered in the early 20th century.
Nearby, Calypso’s Cave Viewpoint provides breathtaking views of Ramla Bay and is linked to Homer’s “The Odyssey.” Although the cave itself is inaccessible, the scenic overlook is a must-visit.
Lastly, Ramla Beach is famous for its unique red sand, and it’s perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
At the end of the day, either head back to Valletta or stay on Gozo for the night. In both cases, you can easily explore Comino on day 5 of this 1 week in Malta itinerary as there’s a ferry from Gozo to Comino.
RELATED GUIDE: 30 BEST Things To Do In Gozo
WHERE TO STAY IN GOZO?
Gozo has countless hotels to choose from, so we’ve narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay during your visit.
Below you’ll find properties suitable for luxury travelers, budget backpackers, and everyone in between.
LUXURY: KEMPINSKI HOTEL SAN LAWRENZ
MID RANGE: SAN PAWL B&B FARMHOUSE
BUDGET: SPLENDID HOUSE VICTORIA
FOR MORE OPTIONS, SEE THIS GUIDE ON WHERE TO STAY IN GOZO – THE BEST AREAS
DAY 5: COMINO & BLUE LAGOON
Start your day by taking a tour from Valletta to Comino, which is the most convenient and hassle-free option.
Tours typically include transportation to Ċirkewwa Passenger Terminal, from where you’ll board a ferry to Comino.
As mentioned above, you can stay in Gozo for the night and take the ferry to Comino from there. That said, in order to get back to Valletta from Comino, you need to take a ferry to Ċirkewwa, and then head back to Valletta from there.
In short, joining a day trip from Valletta to Comino is the most convenient way to visit.
BEST TOUR TO COMINO ISLAND
The best way to visit is by joining this Tour of Comino Island and Gozo!
It includes transportation from Valletta, an experienced guide, and a full-day tour of Comino and Gozo.
When arriving in Comino, head straight to the Blue Lagoon, the most famous tourist spot on the island, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Spend the morning exploring the lagoon, enjoying water activities, or lounging on the rocky shores. It’s worth noting that the Blue Lagoon is usually crowded, so keep that in mind.
Enjoy a packed lunch or buy food from the kiosks available on the island.
Continue exploring Comino by hiking to Santa Marija Tower, which offers panoramic views of the island. You can also visit other smaller beaches and coves on the island for a more secluded experience.
If you don’t join a tour and decide to come on your own, make sure to read the ultimate guide about Comino and the attractions on the island.
READ NOW: The BEST Things To Do In Comino
Return to the mainland by ferry and head back to Valletta. If booking a tour, transportation will be arranged for you.
Note that Comino has no hotels, so you’ll have to come back to the mainland of Malta to spend the night (unless you want to sleep at the Camping Site – Tal Ful, which isn’t the most comfortable).
Once back in Valletta, relax and enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants and then get some rest before day 6, which is yet another great day of adventure on this 7 days Malta itinerary!
DAY 6: MDINA & DINGLI CLIFFS
Mdina, also known as the Silent City, and Dingli Cliffs are two fantastic places you can’t skip on this 1-week itinerary Malta!
Just like the other places we’ve mentioned on this itinerary for Malta, you can either book a tour of both Mdina and Dingli Cliffs, rent a car or take public transportation. From Valletta, buses 50, 51, 52, or 53 operate directly to Mdina.
MDINA:
There are many great things to see in Mdina, and it’s more than the ancient architecture. Visit St. Paul’s Cathedral, wander around Howard Gardens, and visit the Palazzo Falson Museum.
Take your time roaming around, exploring the ancient buildings and palazzos that give Mdina its unique character.
If you don’t join a tour, you’ll have more time to spend in Mdina, so be sure to read this complete guide with all the best attractions.
RELATED GUIDE: 15 BEST Things To Do In Mdina, Malta
DINGLI CLIFFS:
After experiencing all that Mdina has to offer, head to the Dingli Cliffs, the highest point in Malta, just a short 10-minute drive away.
The cliffs offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the rugged coastline. Spend the afternoon walking along the cliff tops, taking in the fresh sea breeze and the beautiful scenery.
It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely hike and some amazing photos. Stay at the Dingli Cliffs until sunset to catch one of the most beautiful views on the island!
DAY 7: VALLETTA & SUNSET AT GOLDEN BAY
Start your final day of this itinerary for Malta by exploring more of Valletta. That’s right, while you’ve seen most of the country, visiting a little more of the capital is a great idea!
Visit some of the sites you may have missed earlier, such as the Grandmaster’s Palace, Casa Rocca Piccola, and the Lascaris War Rooms.
Take a walk around the city and maybe pick up some souvenirs along Republic Street and Merchant Street.
RELATED GUIDE: 20 BEST Things To Do In Valletta
Head to the nearby town of Floriana for lunch. This area is often overlooked, but it has some great spots to eat.
Try a local café or restaurant and enjoy some Maltese specialties while exploring the beautiful gardens and historic sites in Floriana. Samizu Restaurant offers delicious dishes and great views over the marina.
After lunch, take some time to relax or do some last-minute shopping in Valletta at the Point Shopping Mall.
GOLDEN BAY:
And finally, in the afternoon, head to Golden Bay on the northwest coast of Malta, about 35 minutes drive from Valletta.
This popular beach is known for its stunning golden sand, and it’s a great spot to relax, swim, or take a walk along the shoreline.
Plus, you guessed it, it’s an unbelievable place to watch the sunset! We simply can’t think of a better place to end your 7 days in Malta.
RELATED GUIDE: GOLDEN BAY BEACH, MALTA
MALTA ITINERARY – FAQ
That was a long Malta trip itinerary, but we’re confident by following this guide, you’ll get to see most of the tourist attractions in Malta!
When planning your 1 week itinerary Malta, we’ve included these frequently asked questions from first-time visitors.
WHAT ARE THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN MALTA?
Malta is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, and there are plenty of things to see and do during your visit.
We spent one week in Malta, and here below is our complete guide to all the must-see attractions.
READ NOW: 21 TOP THINGS TO DO IN MALTA
HOW MANY DAYS IN MALTA?
One week in Malta is ideal for a well-rounded experience. This allows you to explore the main islands of Malta and Gozo, and enjoy the historic sites in Valletta and Mdina.
Apart from that, you’ll get to relax on beautiful beaches like Golden Bay and Ramla Beach and take day trips to unique spots such as the Blue Lagoon on Comino.
IS 1 WEEK IN MALTA ENOUGH?
Yes, one week in Malta is enough to visit the highlights of Malta without rushing around.
This duration also allows you to enjoy Malta’s rich culture, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife for a memorable trip.
More Malta Travel Guides
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FINAL THOUGHTS – ITINERARY FOR MALTA 7 DAYS
If you have any questions at all about this Malta itinerary 7 days, please leave a comment below this post and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
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