Mad about Malta: the tiny island nation packing a cosmopolitan punch
- Pat Boxall
- Dec 18, 2025
- 4 min read
For anyone dreaming of a Mediterranean escape, Malta is a destination that often flies under the radar. But rest assured the three Maltese islands, which float between Sicily and North Africa, offer a wealth of natural, historical and cultural attractions.
Boasting a seductive blend of old-world charm and modern indulgence, Malta’s three islands – Gozo, Comino and Malta – enjoy more than 300 days of sunshine each year. And with enough variety to keep every kind of traveller engaged, this is an ideal region to explore no matter the season.
What to do in Malta
A trip to Malta is an exercise in picking your own adventure. Each of the three islands offers something distinct, whether you’re chasing relaxation, history or high-end indulgence.
What to do on Gozo
Gozo may be a 45-minute ferry from Valletta, Malta’s historic capital, but its relaxed atmosphere feels a world away from the buzzy streets of the (relatively) big city. Divers flock to the famous Blue Hole and there are few better places to stretch out than the soft red sand of Ramla Beach.
History buffs can wander the World Heritage–listed Ġgantija Temples – the world’s oldest surviving free-standing monuments – or the 17th-century Cittadella in Victoria. For a slower pace, stroll the eye-catching salt pans carved into the coastline and round off the day with a tasting at one of Gozo’s boutique vineyards, pairing crisp local wines with gorgeous views.
What to do on Comino
Comino is best known for the Blue Lagoon, a stretch of turquoise water considered one of Malta’s must-visit sights. Most visitors are content to swim in the lagoon and call it a day, but those in the know venture further. Quiet trails criss-cross the island, leading to hidden coves where you may find yourself completely alone. For the ultimate indulgence, charter a private boat and spend the afternoon gliding between Comino’s caves, bays and secluded beaches (with a Champagne flute in hand, of course).
What to do on Malta
The main island of Malta blends a storied history with a lively contemporary edge. Valletta, the capital, is a
UNESCO World Heritage city hosting boutique galleries, rooftop bars and atmospheric laneways. Don’t miss St John’s Co-Cathedral, where Caravaggio’s masterpiece The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist hangs, and take a moment to marvel at the well-preserved city architecture dating back centuries.
A short ferry across the harbour will bring you to Sliema, where beach clubs dot the rocky coastline, providing the perfect atmosphere for a chilled sundowner.
For a quieter escape, the medieval walled city of Mdina feels like it’s suspended in time. Continue west across the island and explore the dramatic Dingli Cliffs at sunset – an unforgettable way to end the day.
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Where to eat and drink in Malta
Malta’s culinary scene is small but sophisticated, blending Mediterranean freshness with a pinch of North African spice. Your first port of call should be classic Maltese dishes like the ricotta-filled pastizzi, stuffat tal-fenek rabbit stew and lampuki fish pie.
In Valletta, Noni and Under Grain both hold Michelin stars and deliver intimate fine-dining experiences to rival Europe’s best. For a more relaxed but equally stylish meal, The Harbour Club pairs modern Maltese cuisine with sweeping views over the Grand Harbour. And in St Julian’s, Barracuda has long been the spot for refined seafood dinners, housed in a 200-year-old villa perched above the water.
Venture out of the city and you’ll find a growing number of farmhouse restaurants and wineries. Gozo’s Ta’ Frenc offers elegant dining in a converted farmhouse, while boutique vineyards such as Tal-Massar invite guests to linger over tastings in a serene rural setting.
Where to stay in Malta
Located beside Triton’s Fountain, on the edge of Valletta’s Old Town, The Phoenicia has hosted everyone from Arnold Schwarzenegger to Queen Elizabeth II. Doubling as a day spa, the hotel is a wonderful base from which to explore Valletta and further afield. The only thing better than the view from the infinity pool? Cocktails from the Club Bar, which has been serving the best drinks on the island for over 70 years.
The Rosselli – a historic Baroque palazzo – is conveniently set in the heart of Valletta with 25 rooms and suites. The hotel is home to Michelin-starred Under Grain and boasts a rooftop plunge pool perfect for those sweltering summer days. Step straight from the hotel into bustling Merchant Street, from where you can explore the Grand Master’s Palace, St John’s Co-Cathedral and so much more.
If you’re after a true resort experience, look no further than the InterContinental Malta. This sprawling complex is home to seven bars and restaurants, a lagoon-style pool, an off-site beach club and an exclusive rooftop pool and bar for those who book a Highline Suite (and why wouldn’t you?).
Unlike The Phoenicia and Rosselli AX Privilege, the InterContinental is in St Julian’s, an area known for its shopping and nightlife. We recommend embracing both wholeheartedly before returning to your welcoming sanctuary.
When to visit Malta
Given the amount of sunshine, Malta truly is a year-round destination. That said, the sweet spots are the shoulder seasons of May to June and September to October, when the weather is warm but not stifling, the sea is perfect for swimming, and crowds tend to be thinner.
July and August bring a festive buzz and lively nightlife, but you’ll share it with more visitors. Winter is mild and uncrowded, ideal for exploring Malta’s cultural treasures without the summer heat (or prices).
How to get to Malta
Emirates, Qatar Airways and Etihad Airlines all fly to Malta from Melbourne with one or two stops. You can also take a flight to a major European city and connect to a flight to Malta.
Many cruise lines also stop in Malta on selected Mediterranean itineraries. Check out Crystal, Explora Journeys, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea and Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, or ask us for other options.
Next steps
Compact, sun-drenched and endlessly stylish, Malta is certain to reward luxury travellers. From Michelin-starred dining and boutique palazzos to private boat charters and ancient wonders, Malta proves that the best destinations really do come in small packages.
Ready to organise your dream Malta experience? Get in touch with FBI Travel’s team of experts.
Images: Shutterstock
