Malta is a small, beautiful island in the Mediterranean Sea. It is the perfect destination for anyone looking to explore Europe.
It’s easy to get around Malta and experience all of its beauty. The country is shaped like a triangle, with each point being a different region with its own unique sights and activities. There are many things that you can do in Malta such as visiting the ancient temples of Ggantija, exploring the caves of Mellieha, relaxing on the mesmerizing beaches or seeing where Lawrence of Arabia was born.
Whether you are interested in history, food, or beaches, Malta has something for everyone!
We’ll cover everything you need to know about traveling to Malta in 2022!
Top 10 Things to Do in Malta
Here are some of the top 10 things to do in Malta, you can do them all or pick and choose what you want to do.
- Explore the ancient city of Mdina – Mdina is one of Malta’s oldest cities and it can be explored on foot or by bike.
- Go to the Azure Window – The Azure Window was once one of Malta’s most iconic natural attractions, but sadly it collapsed in 2017 due to heavy waves caused by a storm.
- Visit Valletta – Valletta is Malta’s capital city and was founded by Grand Master Jean de Valette in 1566 as a refuge for Christians fleeing Ottoman persecution during the Great Siege of Malta.
- See some wildlife at Fungus Rock Nature Reserve – Fungus Rock Nature Reserve is a small but popular wildlife reserve on Malta’s west coast, which is known for its amazing seabirds.
- Visit the Blue Grotto – The Blue Grotto is a famous limestone cave with beautiful turquoise water, and it can be reached by boat.
- Explore the Hypogeum of Ggantija – Ggantija is an important Neolithic temple complex, which is located in the area of present-day Xagħra.
- Go to the top of St John’s Co-Cathedral – St John’s Co-Cathedral is the largest church in Malta, and it was built to commemorate the Knights of Malta.
- Get a photo in front of Fort St Elmo – Fort St Elmo is one of Malta’s most iconic places, and if you’re visiting during low tide, you can even walk onto the fort itself!
- Spend time at Marsaxlokk Harbor – Get a photo of yourself at Marsaxlokk Harbor as the sun sets over the Grand Harbor.
- Eat Maltese food (i.e., Maltese chicken pie, pastizzi, fish soup, etc.) in one of Malta’s restaurants or cafes
Best Beaches in Malta
Its beaches are some of the most popular in Europe.
- Golden Bay – Golden Bay has a stunning beach and is one of Malta’s best-kept secrets. It is an unspoilt bay with crystal clear water, white sand and a good selection of facilities including toilet facilities, showers, lifeguards and sun beds.
- Sliema – Sliema has been voted as one of the best beaches in Malta due to its fine sand and shallow waters that are perfect for children to play in safely. There are also plenty of sun beds available for hire so you can enjoy your time on this golden sandy beach without having to carry your own equipment with you!
- Mellieha – Mellieha makes an excellent family beach as it is very safe for children to play in the shallow waters, and there are plenty of facilities for visitors.
Travel Requirements to Malta
All European citizens can visit Malta without any further travel requirements. Malta’s doors are open to Schengen residents. Additionally, travelers who participate in the visa-exemption program of Europe can enter Malta without applying for a Schengen visa. This includes US travelers, Canadians, Australians, New Zealand nationals, etc.
Those who are not nationals of visa-exempt countries need to apply for a travel visa which will require several documents and personal information. They need to visit the Maltese embassy or consulate in their country and go through an interview.
Visa-exempt short-term travelers do not require interview or complex application procedures.