This island nation is beloved by tourists from many countries. It’s no wonder: here, you find the cleanest Mediterranean sea and a pleasant climate. The resort season lasts from early May to late October. Some guests even like to spend Christmas holidays in Malta. The rich history of this island nation is fascinating for those seeking not only the hot sun and warm sea. There are still fortifications and temples erected by the Knights of St. John in the 16th-17th centuries. Malta’s resorts are the perfect place to combine a lazy beach vacation with the study of human history.
Valletta
The city was named in honor of the Grand Master of the Order of Malta, Jean de Vallette, an aristocrat from France. In the mid-16th century, the garrison repelled an attack by the Turks. At that time, the Grand Master was already about 70 years old. Vallette assessed his soldiers’ losses and decided to build fortifications that would minimize the number of wounded and killed. The hilly terrain made it possible to build an impregnable fortress. Today, tourists can admire the buildings from the late 16th century.
Valletta’s fate was kind: in the 18th century, the fortress was first captured by Bonapartist and then by English troops, but the buildings remained intact. Unfortunately, the buildings of Valletta were significantly destroyed by the bombings of World War II. However, some parts were later reconstructed. In Valletta, you will hardly find lush vegetation, except for the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens.
Here, shaded alleys are laid out, and flowers are planted. The city’s natural vegetation consists of rare dry plants and sun-scorched grass. The coastline is rocky and heavily indented, with depth increasing instantly. To enter the water, you have to descend steps. Locals do so, while city guests head to other beaches.
However, for tourists who love history, a vacation here will be filled with impressions. In the city, you can see:
- Fort St. Elmo, built in the 14th century
- St. John’s Co-Cathedral, funded by the first Maltese
- Palaces of the Knights of the Order (including the Grand Master’s Palace)
It is pleasant to relax here all year round. Constant summer breezes refresh the air, making the heat less noticeable. The winter is mild, with many sunny days. Rain is quite rare.
- Hotel Phoenicia Malta 5* — seasonal outdoor landscape pool with harbor views, surrounded by a 2.8-hectare garden, live piano music in the lobby
- Grand Hotel Excelsior 5* — private beach, outdoor and indoor pools, rooms with stunning views of Marsamxett Harbor and Manoel Island
- Grand Harbour Hotel 2* — 200 meters from the promenade, with a restaurant and bar/lounge, rooftop terrace
Mellieha
The settlement on the territory of modern Mellieha was known during the Byzantine Empire. After the island was captured by Arab troops, it was destroyed. The people living on the coast constantly suffered from pirate attacks. The villagers breathed a sigh of relief only after the Order of Malta took the settlement under its protection. The Knights built the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mellieha, where you can see a unique 13th-century fresco today.
It is believed that the image of the Virgin helped protect the city. In memory of the heroic defense, a festival is held in honor of the Victorious Virgin from August 30 to September 8. Mellieha has the most popular beach among tourists. It is the northernmost (after Cirkewwa) stretch of the island’s coast. There are always many guests here who prefer passive relaxation. Mellieha Bay attracts with fine yellow sand, warm water, and shallow, gradually deepening water.
Families with children feel comfortable here. The town has a large beach with a playground. Older children will enjoy a trip to the Adira Bird Sanctuary and the Mistra National Park. The local soil is the most fertile on the island. The city market is always abundant with fruits and vegetables. The coast is known for its water sports facilities. Surfers catch waves in designated areas. It’s easy to hire a yacht for a coastal cruise.
Sliema
This town is just a 5-minute ferry ride from Valletta. Such proximity attracts tourists who prefer to stay close to arrival points. Sliema is an unusual place. Its coastline is built up with hotels that do not harmonize well with each other. But if you walk inland, you’ll discover a cozy center with narrow streets and houses made of yellowish sandstone. In the evening, all this splendor is illuminated by lanterns.
At first glance, Sliema seems unsuitable for swimming. The shore is a limestone slab extending deep into the sea. However, it is quite gentle, and in some places, baths are carved out. These pools are protected from sea waves, allowing for swimming even during a storm. Steps are carved into the limestone for convenience.
A promenade runs along the coast. It’s always crowded: locals and vacationers stroll or go for health runs. If you make the effort, you can visit a coastal restaurant in the medieval fortress Fortizza. Right behind the restaurant begins a paradise for diving enthusiasts: the limestone shore becomes steep. This place is popular among divers.
In Sliema, there is something for everyone:
- Adira — a historic site with baths built by the Romans
- Qui-Si-Sana attracts with quickly deepening water (experienced swimmers relax here)
- A cozy square with playgrounds allows children to play, while parents rest in the shade
Resort shopping enthusiasts will also appreciate Sliema: it has the largest shopping center in the town.
- The Waterfront Hotel 4* — picturesque views from room windows and open terrace, excellent location, pool and gym, nearby pier and bus stops
- 1926 Hotel & SPA 4* — a few meters from the seasonal beach club with an outdoor landscape pool, SPA center, good breakfast
- Sliema Hotel by ST Hotels 3* — located in the city center, near the sea, bus stops, shops, and cafes nearby, hearty breakfasts
Gżira
A feature of Gżira is the nearby Manoel Island. The town is connected to the island by a 20-meter bridge. Some tourists entertain themselves by rowing across the narrow strait in boats. Gżira means island in translation. Initially, the Knights arranged a quarantine zone here. Ships arriving from afar stood here. Then, Grand Master António Manoel de Vilhena built a fortress on the island.
The fort was supposed to protect Valletta. Since then, the island has been called Manoel. The coast is rocky (as almost everywhere in Malta), but the city beach is sandy. However, it is always crowded. On the other hand, the small limestone bays are quiet and deserted. Steps are carved into the rock for entering the water.
But the sea and sun are just a part of what makes Gżira interesting:
- The Manoel Fortress houses the Royal Yacht Club. You can hire a vessel for coastal cruises.
- Cultural and architectural monuments: the Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and the Church of the Redeemer.
- Cafes, bars, and restaurants. Here, you should try fish and seafood dishes. The unusual fish lampuka and pasta with octopus ink sauce are noteworthy.
Gżira has many shops selling local handicrafts. As a memory of the hospitable town, you can bring home carpets, copper, glass, and ceramic products.
Birżebbuġa
The name can be translated as the land of olives. This town offers pleasant and affordable relaxation. The population is about 8,000-9,000 people. But residents from other regions of the island come here to work in the port or cargo terminal. Birżebbuġa has many cafes and restaurants offering simple yet delicious food. Fish, seafood, vegetables, and fruits are well-cooked here. Hotels are quite affordable, and you can rent apartments if desired.
Tourists are attracted by the artificial sandy beach of Pretty Bay. During the port’s construction, a lot of white sand was raised from the bottom. It was spread over the limestone base. The beach administration offers umbrella and sunbed rentals. The depth increases gradually, so tourists with children come here. But guests who prefer secluded relaxation will also find favorite spots along the coast.
Nearby Birżebbuġa are wonderful rocky bays, Peters Pool and Delimara Bay. They can be reached by car or on foot.
To diversify passive relaxation, you can explore the local attractions:
- Remains of a Bronze Age settlement (possibly a temple). The place is called Borġ in-Nadur.
- Pirate’s Cave Ar-Hassan. Here, in the 12th century, the Saracen Hassan hid his loot.
- The Cave of Darkness. Here, remains of an ancient human settlement were found. The finds date back to 5000 BC.
Many caves in the area contain skeletons of prehistoric mainland animals. After the narrow isthmus connecting the island to the mainland collapsed, large animals died out due to a lack of drinking water.
Marsaskala
Despite being only 8 km from Valletta and popular with tourists, getting to Marsaskala is problematic. The town is connected to the capital by only one bus route and taxis. But it’s recommended to negotiate the price in advance: it can increase several times later.
You can rent a car: this will allow you to visit remote areas in the surroundings. But the roads around are terrible: dreadful pavement and a lack of road signs. In this case, a navigator will be useful. Public transport in Marsaskala operates regularly on 9-10 routes (quite a lot, considering the small area of the town). Hotels cater to all tastes and budgets: both well-off guests and tourists with limited budgets will feel comfortable here. The restaurants are diverse: from luxurious to affordable.
Marsaskala is famous for the best rocky beach on the island — St. Thomas Bay. It is always crowded. But the surroundings of the town are filled with cozy deserted bays. The swimming season lasts from May to late October. But even in winter, the coast is warm: the air temperature does not drop below +14 degrees Celsius.
History and architecture lovers will not be disappointed. Marsaskala has enough interesting sites:
- The monument of the Three Crucifixions
- Briconet Redoubt
- Fort St. Thomas
Marsaskala has several medieval chapels and churches.
- Sensi Hotel 2* — located a few minutes’ walk from the coast, in St. Thomas Bay, bus stop also within walking distance
- Cerviola Hotel 3* — rooftop pool, sun terrace and bar
St. Julian’s
This place is the most promoted on the island. Here, you find the most luxurious hotels, casinos, bars, and restaurants. Students and schoolchildren come to St. Julian’s for European education. It is crowded all year round (except for Christmas holidays). The swimming season opens in May and ends in October. The high season is from July to September. Beach lovers flock to St. Julian’s as early as June.
It’s already hot here, and prices are not very high yet. However, the water is far from ideal. But you can still swim. During the high season, St. George’s Bay’s central beach is overcrowded. People not only relax by the water but also engage in water sports. There are no problems with instructors: you can take surfing, diving, or kitesurfing lessons. At night, clubs and bars open their doors. Tourists never have time to be bored.
In September, the tourist flow becomes less intense: the air temperature drops, and it sometimes rains. But the water is still warm, and you can swim. Prices for services also fall. At this time, St. Julian’s is preferred by those who love comfort but avoid the hustle. Winter in St. Julian’s is unpleasant: it is damp and windy. There is no central heating in the houses, so it can be challenging to stay warm. But guests from the UK are happy to spend Christmas here.
Paceville
Paceville is both an independent resort and part of St. Julian’s. Several blocks are favored by young people. It offers the most budget-friendly accommodation on the island: hostels, cheap hotels, bars, cafes. Wealthy and family tourists do not come here. During the day, Paceville is deserted and dull, but everything comes alive at dusk. Tourists leave their rooms, and school and university students hurry to the discos.
The fun lasts until morning: after all, Paceville is a place for young people. The beach here is decent: with poured sand. It is municipal, so entry is free. Paceville offers holidays for young lovers on a tight budget. You are unlikely to find an upscale restaurant or hotel here, but there are plenty of budget bars and clubs. The famous Axis disco in Europe will leave unforgettable impressions.
St. Paul’s Bay
The second name of St. Paul’s Bay is St. Paul’s Bay. The resort area consists of three villages: Bugibba, Qawra, and Xemxija. It’s quieter here than in Sliema or St. Julian’s. Prices are lower, but there are fewer entertainments. You can swim here, but you should enter the water via specially made paths. In some places, steps are carved into the limestone.
Locals enter the water almost everywhere, but tourists are advised to be cautious. Six kilometers from Bugibba are sandy beaches. The promenade of St. Paul’s Bay is very picturesque. It is an excellent place for walks and runs for locals and tourists. In the evening, bars, clubs, and discos start working.
The price for services is quite low: everyone can afford budget entertainment. St. Paul’s Bay is a place where you can engage in active sports. Here, you can ride yachts and catamarans, water skis. The rich flora and fauna provide interesting diving. Near Aura, salt pans remain. Tourists come here to swim in the brine.
To diversify beach relaxation, you can visit:
- Simar Bird Sanctuary
- Ain-Razul Fountain
- Caves where prehistoric people lived
- 17th-century towers
- Temples dedicated to the Virgin Mary
In St. Paul’s Bay, you can buy amazing lace and eight-sided crosses.
- Qawra Palace Hotel 4* — located on the first line, indoor and outdoor pools, mini-golf course, tennis court
- Dolmen Hotel Malta 4* — private beach, six pools, varied meals, evening programs
- AX Seashells Resort at Suncrest 4* — SPA center, pool with hydromassage corner and children’s pool with water slide, good location
Msida
This settlement is a fishing village. Once, it was inhabited by people who harvested sea gifts. But today, it is the largest port on the island. Various yachts stand in the local harbor. A walk along the promenade is an exciting activity for those fascinated by water sports. There are no swimming places in Msida, and the choice of hotels and restaurants is limited. However, the University of Malta is located here, where students from all over the world study. The city is rightly considered the cultural capital of the island.
Tourists come to see Msida’s historical center. It is built with 18th-century buildings. The most notable is the largest washing machine on the island. This laundry was built by order of a Germanic Knight. The building with a vaulted roof is well-preserved, but now fishermen use it to store gear. Interesting are the chapels carved in limestone and St. Joseph’s Cathedral.
Marsaxlokk
It’s hard to call Marsaxlokk a resort, although it has several hotels. Young people who prefer to relax in the nearby St. Peter’s Bay stay here. The bay has the cleanest water, and the underwater world is fascinating. This attracts divers. Brave travelers jump from sheer cliffs straight into the sea. Other tourists come to Marsaxlokk for its amazing fish market.
The village’s first inhabitants were engaged in fishing and seafood harvesting. Today, their descendants continue their ancestors’ business. The world of Marsaxlokk remains the same: low houses made of yellow limestone stand close to each other. They are only a few meters from the sea: there are never big waves here. The harbor is filled with fishing boats. Many of them are decorated with the eyes of Osiris. These attributes help to return home in any weather.
Previously, the fish market operated only on Sundays: from early morning until noon when the scorching sun threatened to destroy the entire catch. Today (though on a smaller scale), the market operates every day. It is no longer specialized: shoes, clothes, lace, ceramics, and copper products are sold here. But after noon, the square still becomes empty. Marsaxlokk has many fish restaurants. Delicious dishes made from freshly caught mollusks, octopuses, and fish are well-prepared here. These culinary delights are washed down with local wine.
Gozo Island
Gozo Island is entirely different from Malta. You should come here to see the historical and natural sites concentrated on a small territory. You can spend several eventful days on Gozo. There are enough swimming spots: from traditional rocky ones with paved paths for entering the water or steps carved in limestone to the sandy Ramla Bay. Gozo’s coastline is heavily indented: there are picturesque grottos.
Some can be viewed from land, while others from the sea. For this, it is better to rent a yacht. Surprisingly, this tiny island has its own Inland Sea. This is a small bay separated from the Mediterranean Sea by a rocky shore and connected to the outer sea by a cave. Gozo offers a wide range of activities: renting catamarans, boats, jet skis, and scuba diving. Exotic activities include swimming in saltwater baths. These are small tanks left from ancient salt pans.
Żurrieq
It’s hard to call Żurrieq a developed resort town: locals fear that an increase in tourist flow will negatively affect historical sites. And there are plenty of them. The artist Preti spent his last years in Żurrieq. His paintings can be found in the island’s churches and galleries. The most famous site in Żurrieq is the Blue Grotto. It is easy to reach from Wied iż-Żurrieq bay.
In the 16th century, pirates hid their ships from royal authorities in the Blue Grotto. Today, it is a beautiful place where you can see a sandy bottom through turquoise water. Underwater rocks are covered with corals. You can spend several hours here. Near the Blue Grotto is the island of Filfla. It has sheer rocky shores and a flat surface.
Żurrieq itself has many interesting historical sites:
- The entire center is built with 15th-17th-century houses. The buildings are in excellent condition.
- Churches and chapels are found at every step.
- Phoenician tombs and a fortress tower built by the Romans.
- The settlement of Ħal Millieri. Historians value its 14th-century chapels with unique frescoes.
- Żurrieq Cathedral. Services are still held there.
Archaeological excavations are ongoing near the town. You can visit and see what scientists have discovered.
Bormla
The favorable geopolitical position of the town was utilized by the Knights of Malta: they built a strong double fort. The Grand Harbor is an ideal place for docking and repairing ships. The English began actively using it in the late 18th century. Today, Bormla is a peaceful working town. The main population consists of sailors and dockworkers. However, tourists don’t forget Bormla: visitors from other Maltese cities come to see the unique shipyard.
Today, it is being re-equipped to service modern yachts. Athletes from all over the world come to the convenient port of Bormla. Cultural landmarks eagerly visited by island guests include:
- The Church of the Immaculate Conception
- The Margherita and Firenzuola fortifications In December, a grand celebration of the patronal feast takes place. It’s a very beautiful event.
Comino Island
This island is suitable for tourists who prefer a calm and measured life. There is one 4-star hotel on Comino, and the total population is about 10 people. However, it offers excellent fishing, diving, hiking, and cycling. There are many historical and natural landmarks on Comino. These include caves, grottos, the Chapel of St. Mary, remnants of fortifications built by the Knights of St. John in the 16th-17th centuries, the shallow St. Mary’s Bay with clean sand, and the famous Blue Lagoon with crystal-clear, sky-blue water. You also can’t miss the cave where the hermit Saint Korr lived. Just 100 meters away by sea is the tiny island of Cominotto. You can reach this picturesque, pristine, uninhabited island by a pleasure boat. Some daredevils even swim the 100 meters.