Whether you prefer soaking in the sun on pristine beaches or exploring ancient artifacts, Malta offers no shortage of intriguing destinations to visit. Here’s a roundup of some of this island’s most notable attractions that no visitor will want to miss.
Grand Harbour
A good starting point for any tour of Malta is the renowned Grand Harbour, which is the setting for centuries of the island’s history including sieges and growth alike. Get out on the water in a traditional wooden boat for a tour of the Harbour, taking in sights along the way. Tours depart from the Customs House along the Valletta Waterfront.
St John’s Co-Cathedral
Located in Valletta, the St John’s Co-Cathedral is considered to be one of Europe’s most notable Baroque buildings. It’s simple exterior masks the opulent artwork and decor that lies within, including colorful marble and gilt. The cathedral was the primary place of worship for the Knights of Malta, and you can learn more about its purpose and history with an audio tour.
Mdina
The former Roman center of the island, Mdina has been inhabited from the Bronze Age right up until today. It’s best explored on foot to get a sense of its variety of architectural styles from throughout the ages. Stop off in Bastion Square to enjoy panoramic views of Malta, and stay to watch the sun go down as you dine in one of the town’s terraced eateries.
Comino and the Blue Lagoon
There are a number of islands worth exploring in and around Malta. Simply view the timetables from ferry operators like Ok-Ferry to plan your travel. One of these is Comino, which was once used as a pirate hideout. Positioned between Gozo and Malta, it’s accessible by ferry and is most famous for the white sandy beaches of its Blue Lagoon. This makes a popular day trip for visitors to Malta.
Hypogeum
Back on the main island, the Hypogeum is a true must-see attraction. Situated in Paola, this underground temple is estimated to have been constructed way back in 2,500 BC. It’s on the UNESCO World Heritage list for its age and unique features, which are carved directly into solid rock. You’ll want to book your tickets well in advance, as only a few visitors are allowed each day to help keep it preserved.
Megalithic Temples
Like the Hyogeum, the Megalithic Temples of Malta are UNESCO World Heritage sites. There are 11 prehistoric monuments in total, which some believe date back to 5000 BC. This makes them some of the oldest man made structures on Earth, and something that any history or archaeology buff won’t want to miss the chance to see. These temples are scattered across the island, with some also on Gozo. You can access them by public bus.
If you only have a weekend in Malta or a whole month, you’re unlikely to run out of things to see. Put these amazing attractions at the top of your to-do list and you’ll be off to a good start.
