Why Malta Outshines Greece and Italy
Whilst millions flock to overcrowded Greek islands and touristy Italian coasts, savvy travellers are discovering Malta’s secret: 7,000 years of history packed into just 316 square kilometres. This Mediterranean archipelago offers something Greece can’t match – prehistoric temples older than Stonehenge, combined with crystal-clear waters that rival the Maldives. Unlike Santorini’s Instagram crowds or Amalfi’s eye-watering prices, Malta preserves authentic island life where English is spoken and your pound stretches further.
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Malta’s compact size means you’ll experience ancient civilisations, underwater adventures, and medieval cities all within a single week. From Valletta’s baroque splendour to Comino’s legendary Blue Lagoon, this itinerary maximises your time whilst preserving the relaxed Mediterranean pace that makes Malta truly special.
Before You Go: Essential Malta Travel Information
Weather: Malta enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually. May through October offers perfect weather (25-30°C), whilst winter remains pleasantly mild for cultural exploration. Shoulder seasons (April to May and September to October) provide ideal conditions with fewer crowds.
Transportation: Malta’s efficient bus network connects all major attractions for just €2 per journey. Car rentals offer maximum flexibility for exploring hidden gems, whilst ferries run regularly between Malta and Gozo. Most attractions are within walking distance once you reach each area.
Day 1: Valletta’s Timeless Grandeur
Morning: Upper Barrakka Gardens & Grand Harbour Views
Begin your Malta adventure in Europe’s smallest capital city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts incredible history around every limestone street. Begin at the Upper Barrakka Gardens for breathtaking Grand Harbour panoramas – one of the world’s finest natural harbours. Time your visit for the noon cannon firing ceremony, a tradition dating back to the Knights of St. John.
Afternoon: St. John’s Co-Cathedral
Explore St. John’s Co-Cathedral, home to Caravaggio’s only signed masterpiece, “The Beheading of St. John the Baptist.” The austere exterior conceals one of Europe’s most lavishly decorated interiors, showcasing the Knights Templar’s incredible wealth and patronage of the arts.
Evening: Republic Street Stroll
Wander Republic Street’s charming cafés and local boutiques before enjoying dinner at a traditional Maltese restaurant. Valletta’s compact grid layout makes evening exploration delightfully easy.
Day 2: Ancient Mysteries & Prehistoric Wonders
Morning: Ħaġar Qim Temples
Journey to the ĦaÄ¡ar Qim temple complex, where megalithic structures predate Stonehenge by 1,000 years. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites reveal sophisticated Neolithic engineering, with massive limestone blocks precisely positioned using primitive tools. The visitor centre’s interactive exhibits provide fascinating context about Malta’s temple builders.
Afternoon: Blue Grotto Sea Caves
Experience Malta’s most dramatic coastline at the Blue Grotto, where limestone caves create spectacular natural light shows. Traditional boat tours take you through multiple caves as sunlight filters through underwater openings, creating brilliant blue illuminations that photographers dream about.
Evening: Marsaxlokk Harbour
End your day in the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk, famous for its colourful luzzu boats adorned with protective eye symbols. Enjoy fresh seafood at harbour-front restaurants where today’s catch was swimming in the Mediterranean just hours earlier.
Day 3: Medieval Magic in the Silent City
Morning: Mdina’s Timeless Streets
Step back 1,000 years in Mdina, Malta’s former capital, known as the Silent City. Cars are banned from these medieval limestone streets, creating a remarkably peaceful atmosphere. Explore serpentine alleyways lined with Norman and Baroque palaces, hidden gardens, and churches steeped in history.
Afternoon: St. Paul’s Cathedral & Bastions
Visit St. Paul’s Cathedral, built where the saint met the Roman governor after his 60 AD shipwreck. The marble floors and intricate ceiling frescoes rank among Malta’s most beautiful artistic treasures. Climb the bastions for breathtaking island views that stretch to the Mediterranean horizon.
Evening: Golden Hour Photography
Stay for sunset when the golden limestone glows in magical light – many visitors say that walking through Mdina at dusk feels like stepping onto a film set, which it often has been for productions, including Game of Thrones.
Day 4: Gozo’s Rural Authenticity
Morning: Ferry to Sister Island
Take the scenic 25-minute ferry ride to Gozo, Malta’s sister island, where traditional Mediterranean life continues much as it has for centuries. The slower pace and rolling countryside offer perfect respite from Malta’s busier attractions.
Afternoon: Cittadella & Ä gantija Temples
Explore Victoria’s fortified Cittadella for panoramic views across both islands, then visit the Ä gantija Temples – even older than Malta’s prehistoric sites. These intimate monuments provide another glimpse into Neolithic civilisation in a more rural setting.
Evening: Ramla Bay Beach
Relax at Ramla Bay, Gozo’s golden sand beach that contrasts beautifully with Malta’s typically rocky shores. The sunset views across the Mediterranean create perfect endings to island exploration days.
Day 5: Blue Lagoon Paradise & Comino Adventure
Full Day: Comino Island Hopping
Dedicate your entire day to Comino’s legendary Blue Lagoon, where turquoise waters are so clear and vibrant that they appear almost tropical. Early boat trips from Malta offer a chance to avoid crowds and enjoy the best swimming conditions in this natural Mediterranean pool.
Morning: Blue Lagoon Swimming
Spend your morning swimming and snorkelling in crystal-clear waters where visibility extends to 20 metres. The sandy bottom and protected cove create perfect conditions for all swimming abilities.
Afternoon: Crystal Lagoon & Island Hiking
Explore Comino’s rugged coastline beyond the famous lagoon. Crystal Lagoon, Santa Marija Bay, and various cliff-jumping spots provide alternatives for adventure seekers. The virtually uninhabited island offers peaceful hiking trails and excellent bird watching opportunities.
Day 6: Underground Mysteries & Maritime History
Morning: Hal Saflieni Hypogeum
Descend into one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological sites – the 5,000-year-old Hal Saflieni Hypogeum. This UNESCO World Heritage underground burial chamber, carved from living rock, accommodated over 7,000 burials and demonstrates sophisticated acoustic engineering. Book well in advance as only 80 visitors are permitted daily.
Afternoon: Grand Harbour Cruise
Experience Malta’s maritime heritage on a Grand Harbour cruise, sailing past the Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua) that predate Valletta. These fortified settlements played crucial roles during the Great Siege of 1565, and their layers of fortifications tell the stories of successive rulers, from the Knights to the British colonial powers.
Evening: Three Cities Exploration
Explore historic Vittoriosa on foot, visiting the Malta Maritime Museum and original Knights’ auberges. The narrow streets and harbour views provide authentic glimpses into Malta’s seafaring past.
Day 7: Final Discoveries & Departure Preparations
Morning: Marsaxlokk Sunday Market
If departing on Sunday, experience the vibrant Marsaxlokk fish market where local fishermen sell overnight catches alongside vendors offering honey, capers, and handmade crafts. The colourful atmosphere and authentic local interactions provide the perfect final memories of Malta.
Afternoon: Last-Minute Valletta
Return to Valletta for final explorations and souvenir shopping. Visit any missed attractions or enjoy coffee in Republic Street whilst reflecting on your week of discoveries.
Evening: Farewell Dinner
Celebrate your Malta adventure with a farewell dinner featuring local specialities like rabbit stew, pastizzi, or fresh seafood whilst watching the sunset over the Grand Harbour.
Your Malta Adventure Awaits
This carefully crafted 7-day itinerary reveals why Malta consistently ranks among Europe’s most rewarding destinations. From prehistoric mysteries to turquoise lagoons, medieval cities to underwater adventures, Malta delivers experiences that larger, more famous destinations cannot match.
The island’s compact size, English-speaking locals, and year-round appeal make it perfect for solo travellers, couples, or groups seeking authentic Mediterranean culture without the crowds. With over 300 days of sunshine and attractions spanning 7,000 years of history, Malta offers incredible value and unforgettable memories.
Ready to discover Malta’s magic for yourself? Book your flights today and prepare for a week that will redefine your expectations of Mediterranean travel. Malta isn’t just another island destination – it’s a journey through time that will leave you planning your return before you’ve even left.
Thanks for taking the time to read this article. I hope this post has given you the information you need. If you have any recommendations, tips or advice, I would love for you to share them in the comment section below!
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