Discovering Malta: A 7-Day Road Trip Itinerary

Malta, a stunning Mediterranean archipelago, is known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant towns, and ancient temples. Beyond the picturesque locations, visitors will be surprised to discover its rich history, culture, and natural beauty.

If you seek to find a balance between adventure and relaxation, a road trip in Malta is in order as this allows you to explore charming villages, historical landmarks, and breathtaking coastlines.

Depending on your schedule, you can prepare a three-, five-, or even a six-day Malta road trip. However, allotting a week to go around this island country already gives you enough time to see the sights and even wander around the smaller islands of Gozo and Comino.

Even before flying, plan your route to maximize your experience. Valletta, Malta’s capital, is the ideal starting point as from here, you can make your way around the island. Don’t limit yourself to famous tourist spots and make enough time for hidden gems. Welcome unexpected detours and make room for new discoveries in the country.

Begin your journey in Valletta and immerse yourself in the city’s rich history. Start with a visit to St. John’s Co-Cathedral, a baroque structure with a facade featuring two large bell towers and octagonal spires. Inside, you will see a design dominated by gold leaf, marble, and Caravaggio’s famous painting, “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist”.

The cathedral is known not just as a place of worship, but also a treasure trove of art that will leave you in awe. A new museum is currently in the works where artifacts like the Capella Ardente and the Reliquary of the Hand of St. John the Baptist will be on display. Next, head to the Grandmaster’s Palace, which served as the residence of the Grand Masters of the Knights of St. John. Currently, it houses both the Office of the President of Malta and the Palace Armoury.

After the Grandmaster’s Palace, you can proceed to the Upper Barrakka Gardens where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. The gardens is a spot where you can enjoy a quick respite in between pit stops.

Continue your exploration to Mdina, also known as the Silent City. This medieval town highlights a labyrinth of narrow streets that transport you back in time. As you stroll through the winding alleys, you’ll see the Mdina Cathedral, with its captivating baroque architecture. If you have time, visit the Mdina Dungeons to learn about Malta’s darker history through the exhibits. As an alternative, you can enjoy the view from the city walls which offer landscapes of the Maltese countryside.

Start your day by taking a morning ferry from Ċirkewwa to Gozo, where another day of adventure awaits. As you approach Gozo, the mere sight of the serene waters sets the tone for your adventure. Upon arrival, pay a visit to the Ġgantija Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s oldest freestanding structures. As you admire the megaliths, you can better understand the island’s prehistoric past.

Next, head straight to Gozo’s capital, Victoria, where the imposing Citadel dominates the skyline. Within its walls, you can find historical buildings and streets waiting to be explored. The Gozo Museum of Archaeology lets you dive into the island’s rich history, from prehistoric times to the early modern period.

Meanwhile, The Old Prison gives a glimpse into Gozo’s judicial past. Be on the lookout for graffiti left by former inmates that are still visible on the walls. Make sure you drop by The Cathedral of Assumption that’s located at the heart of the Citadel. Here, you can admire and take photos of the beautiful frescoes.

Cap off your day with a meal at the highly rated Ta’ Philip Restaurant, where Gozitan dishes made using fresh and local ingredients are served. The hearty meals complement the warm and rustic ambiance of the place, serving as a perfect ending to your day.

There’s a ton to see and experience in Gozo. If you’re planning an extended stay, consider booking a room at the Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz, known for its opulent accommodations and amenities such as a world-class spa and landscaped gardens.

Allot Day 3 for exploring the natural wonders of Gozo. To do this, make sure you wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Kick off your day with a visit to Dweira, where you can marvel at a picture-perfect landscape that includes the ruins of the Azure Window. Though the iconic limestone arch already collapsed, the place remains magical thanks to the Inland Sea. This serene lagoon, connected to the Mediterranean by a narrow archway, is ideal for swimming, diving, and boat rides through the tunnel.

Afterwards, unwind at Ramla Bay, famous for its unique red sand. The bay is also rich in history, with its Calypso Cave believed to be the cave mentioned in Homer’s Odyssey.

Conclude your day in Xlendi, where the waterfront promenade provides the best backdrop for relaxation. Stroll along the promenade and enjoy the sights. As the sun sets, make sure you turn your attention to the cliffs surrounding Xlendi Bay for another stunning view you can’t miss.

Ride a boat to Comino Island where the beauty of the Blue Lagoon awaits to captivate your heart. Known for its turquoise waters, the Blue Lagoon offers an enchanting respite. Make the most of this idyllic spot by taking a dip! The clear waters allow you to see and discover marine life. Aside from colorful fish, you might be able to spot unique rock formations, too.

Whether you’re into snorkeling or just sunbathing, the lagoon’s rocky shores offer plenty of space to relax. With the rugged cliffs as your backdrop, you can’t help but take tens of snaps. The Blue Lagoon provides a peaceful Maltese experience that’s far from the bustling mainland. It’s a must-visit destination that captures the essence of Malta’s coastal charm.

Bid Gozo adieu and take a ferry back to Malta’s main island for a day of exploring Marsaxlokk, a traditional fishing village that gives a glimpse into Maltese culture. Explore the Marsaxlokk Fish Market, where you can take in the lively atmosphere and treat your senses to an array of fresh seafood and local produce.

As you walk around, keep an eye out for the charming luzzus, the colorful fishing boats that liven up the harbor. Painted in bright colors like blue and yellow, these boats make for perfect subjects for a couple of photographs that perfectly capture Marsaxlook’s essence.

Beyond the market, wander through the village and discover traditional Maltese houses and cafes. Make sure you savor freshly prepared seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants overlooking the bay.

From Marsaxlokk, travel to the Blue Grotto, where a boat tour will take you through a series of stunning sea caves. The tour offers a perspective into the Grotto’s natural beauty, allowing you to witness the geological formations up close.

After your aquatic adventure, go on a scenic drive to the Dingli Cliffs, Malta’s highest point. Standing at around 250 meters above sea level, the cliffs offer an incomparable view of the Mediterranean Sea and the Maltese coastline. After admiring the view, take a leisurely walk around the area of the Dingli Cliffs and take in the serenity of the landscape.

Visiting the Blue Grotto and Dingli Cliffs allow you to experience Malta’s natural wonders and scenic vistas firsthand.

Begin the last day of your Malta trip with a visit to the Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples, two of the most significant prehistoric sites in Malta’s history. These megalithic temples offer a glimpse into Malta’s distant past. Set against a backdrop of sweeping sea views and beautiful landscapes, the temples provide a space for contemplation and photography.

Back in Valleta, make sure to go back to your favorite spots and explore quaint corners you may have missed. Valletta’s streets feature local cafes and souvenir shops so don’t forget to shop for keepsakes that capture the essence of Malta such as traditional lace, local delicacies, and glassware.

As a perfect ending to your road trip in Malta, treat yourself to a meal at Noni Restaurant, a Michelin-starred gem that serves contemporary Maltese cuisine. The elegant setting of Noni provides a memorable dining experience, making it the ideal cherry on top of your Maltese adventure.

While spending seven days in Malta already sounds like a dream, it might feel too short once you immerse yourself in what the island nation has to offer. Maximizing your time ensures a rich and varied experience, allowing you to take a dive into Malta’s history and culture.

From wandering the historic streets of Valletta to exploring the landscapes of Gozo and Comino, the island of Malta offers an array of diverse attractions. Without a doubt, the island is an ideal destination for travelers seeking relaxation and road trippers looking for adventure. Every corner of Malta has a story to tell and every view captivates the soul.

Driving in Malta: Tips and Things to Remember

• If you’re looking into visiting Malta anytime soon and you plan on driving yourself around, make sure you get an International Driving Permit for a hassle-free trip. This is often required by car rental companies and traffic authorities will usually ask for it, along with your foreign driver’s license.

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• Familiarize yourself with road rules and important regulations by looking up a Malta driving guide. Understanding the driving laws of the country you’re visiting ensures your safety and everyone else’s on the road.
• Motorists drive on the left of the road in Malta and they prioritize public transport so make a point to stop when passengers ride and alight from vehicles.
• Read about driving etiquette in Malta so you know how to handle unexpected circumstances.

When is the best time to visit Malta?

• It is ideal to visit the island of Malta between April and June or September and October as you can expect pleasant weather and less crowds.

What do you need to pack for a road trip in Malta?

• Always bring your valid driver’s license, an international driving permit, travel insurance, and other important documents that you might need during your trip. Bring comfortable clothing, swimwear, sun protection, and a camera to capture those memories.

Do you need a visa when visiting Malta?

• If you’re not a citizen of the UK, the United States, or any Schengen country, you need to secure a valid visa before traveling to Malta. There are different visas available such as a tourist visa, a business visa, and a transit visa. The Identita website of Malta can give you more information on how to apply.

Can you rent a car in Malta?

• International car rental companies like Hertz and Avis operate in Malta. Consider renting a smaller car so you can easily drive around narrow roads.

Is Malta a safe country to visit?

• Malta is a safe country but it’s important to take precautions, especially if it’s your first time visiting the country. Emergency services such as police, fire service, and emergency medical service are also available.