Malta is a small country surrounded by the deep blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea, just south off the tip of Sicily in Italy. Tourists often overlook this European country but once they set foot on it, they are surprised by how it manages to squeeze in a variety of attractions.

From the red-gold beaches and serene bays to the picturesque hilltop towns and colorful fishing villages, Malta has so much to offer for the curious travelers. In addition to these, the country comes alive during the summer with outdoor concerts and religious festivals.

So, if you’re planning for the perfect summer getaway, Malta is the place to be. Check out these 7 must-visit attractions in Malta!

7 Best Places to Visit in Malta During Summer

1.     Valletta

If it’s your first time visiting Malta, you should definitely head to its capital city, Valletta. The entire city is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a lot of cultural and historical monuments.

You should definitely visit the heart of the city, Saint John’s Co-Cathedral. It is a 16th-century church dedicated to Saint John the Baptist which boasts a lavish interior and ornate decor.

Another tourist attraction to explore is the Grand Master’s Palace. It once held the residence of the Knights of Malta and has an immense collection of armory worn by these knights and paintings depicting the story of military victories.

Aside from the various landmarks, you’ll find it easy to navigate this small city, thanks to the efficient public transportation system. It is also situated in a convenient location, ideal for first-time travelers who would like to explore the country without a car.

2.     Mdina

If you want to fully experience medieval times, you should head inland to the old capital of Malta, Mdina. Referred to as the “Silent City,” it’s easy to tell why once you set foot on this place.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site does not allow cars to enter and only has a few inhabitants. It’s definitely a great place to relax as you stroll through the narrow alleys and transport yourself back in time within the city’s ancient buildings.

Must-visit tourist attractions in Mdina include the Cathedral of Saint Paul, the Magisterial Palace, the Natural History Museum, and the Palazzo Falzon.

3.     Gozo

Just off the coast of Malta is the small island of Gozo, a popular farming and fishing community. You can reach it via ferry, but for a thrilling adventure, try riding the seaplane.

The island offers a delightful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. It still has a few cultural attractions (a fortified medieval city called Victoria) but it is known for its Neolithic Ġgantija Temple ruins, rolling hills, and pristine beaches.

You should definitely take a swim on Marsalforn, the city’s main holiday resort, or the Ramla Bay, a beach with golden red sand.

4.     Comino

Situated between the islands of Malta and Gozo is Comino, a small island that is virtually inhabited.

It is home to the famous Blue Lagoon, a beach with crystal-clear turquoise waters and stunning white sand. Despite being a beach, it’s more like a giant swimming pool with its shallow waters and mild temperature. As such, it’s the best place to swim, splash around, or simply float on inflatable tubes.

If you’re up for a little adventure, you can swim over to Comino’s islet called Cominotto. Here, you can go diving or snorkelling and explore the vast marine life the island has to offer.

5.     Dwejra

Dwejra is one of the most astounding places in Malta. It is known for its dramatic coastal formations, the most popular ones being the Fungus Rock and the now-collapsed Azure Window.

Aside from the picturesque cliffs, Dwejra also offers diving and snorkelling spots for adventurous tourists. You should definitely check out the foamy waters around the Blue Hole which is one of Malta’s top scuba diving sites.

6.     St. Julians

St. Julians is the place to go if you’re up for some late night fun and hard partying. Conveniently located north of the country’s capital, this seaside town is known for its nightlife scene.

Head on to the streets of Paceville where you can find various bars, nightclubs, and pubs. Top places include the trendy Thirsty Barber, the iconic Saddles Pub, and the exclusive Club TwentyTwo.

But even if you’re not a party animal, St. Julian is still a must-visit city for other tourists. You can simply take a stroll along the seafront promenade or sunbathe in St. George’s Bay.

7.     Qawra

For those who are seeking a quiet and more relaxed summer getaway, you can opt to stay at Qawra.

Situated on a peninsula between St. Paul’s Bay and Salina Bay, the city is the perfect place for leisurely walks and jogs, especially during the evenings with the pleasant weather.

Qawra offers many restaurants and cultural sites that would attract tourists. In addition, it’s becoming a popular hub for those who want to try out watersports activities, thanks to the numerous diving schools.

Malta might be a small country in the Mediterrenean Sea but it offers a lot of attractions. From intriguing cultural sites to breathtaking natural landscapes, Malta might be the perfect place to visit on your next summer trip.

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