A week in Malta: Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary + My Best Tips

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The Perfect Itinerary for One Week in Malta

So you’re planning to visit Malta, one of the smallest European country?

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared for you this 1 week itinerary in Malta. It will allow you to make the most out of your stay and visit all the best tourist attractions of the island.

In addition to the best things to do, I will also give you my best tips to visit Malta in 6, 7 or 8 days as well as my selection of the best accomodations depending on your budget.

So, how to spend a week in Malta? What are the best places to visit?

Let’s discover Valletta, Mdina, St Peter’s pool, Gozo et Comino!

1) Valletta (1.5 days)

Your one week itinerary in Malta will start in Valletta, Malta’s capital.

Once you have landed, there are several ways to go to Valletta from the airport:

  • You can rent a car. The best is to rent it after you’re done visiting Valletta (2 days after your arrival) as you won’t need a car in the city. Besides, unless you book a hotel with a private parking, it’s very difficult to find a parking space in the city. You will save also save a bit of money on your car rental fees! However I strongly recommend you to rent a car for the rest of your trip in Malta so you won’t have to rely on the (pretty random) bus schedules and not optimized bus routes.
  • Take the X4 bus, leaving every 30min from the airport. It costs 1.50€ and it takes 25min to reach Valletta. It’s the cheapest option.
  • Take a taxi to your hotel. There is a fixed price of 15€ for a 15min ride.

If you chose to rent a car, I recommend you to use  Rentalcars.com, the best car rental website for 3 reasons:

  • It allows you to easily compare prices between all the car rental agencies. You’re 100% sure to get the best price!
  • Cancelling or modifying your booking is free most of the time
  • They offer a “full protection” insurance: perfect to travel with the peace of mind!

I have used there “full protection” a bunch of times (they have refunded me more than 1300 euros at the moment), I can assure you that this insurance is the best on the market. One more reason to choose Rentalcars.com for your car rental in Malta.

Since I discovered it, it’s simple: I am booking rental cars there for all of my travels. If you already have your travel date, you should book your car now to get the best price. Click the following button to compare rental cars prices in Malta:

PS: you should put the website in your bookmarks, it will be very useful for your next trips!

Once you arrive in Valletta, drop your luggages at your hotel and go for a stroll in the city before getting a good night sleep.

Your trip begins the day after with the visit of all the must see attractions in Valletta.

I recommend starting the day with the symbol of the city: Saint John’s Co-Cathedral. It’s a very touristic site so it’s always better to visit it in the morning, when it’s not too crowded. The inside of the cathedral is breathtaking! The visit takes around 1 hour.

Let’s then go to the Grandmaster’s Palace to visit the State Rooms and the impressive armory with armors and weapons used by knights of the Order of Malta. You will spend around 1h-1h30 there.

Grand Master's Palace
Grand Master’s Palace

After leaving the Grandmaster’s Palace, you can stop by Lower Barrakka Garden to take a picture of the “Siege Bell War Monument“, it’s very photogenic.

Then, head to Upper Barrakka Garden at 12pm sharp to take part in a Valletta tradition: the saluting battery and its daily cannon shots. It was first used to greet foreign vessels and has become part of the Maltese folklore.

The best part of Barrakka garden is the amazing view over the Three Cities and the sea. Take a break there while enjoying the shade and the view.

After your lunch in one of the many restaurants in Valletta, your afternoon will be dedicated to exploring the Three Cities that you saw from the Upper Barrakka Garden.

It’s very easy to go there:

  1. First, take the panoramic lift down (located in Upper Barrakka Garden)
  2. Then, cross the street and continue to the left to reach the boat departure point.

Round trip tickets are 2.80€ per person and the trip lasts 10min. You will then be able to walk around the narrow streets of Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua and enjoy nice views over Valletta.

Return to Valletta by the end of the day and go to Republic Street and Merchant Street. These are Valletta’s main streets where you will find many restaurants, coffee shops and shopping options. The perfect opportunity to stop for a drink or to start looking for a good restaurant for dinner!

Don’t buy souvenirs right away in Valletta. You will have more occasions later on your trip to find cheaper ones!

For more places to visit in Valletta, check out my article: The 10 best things to do in Valletta.

Voyage Tips advice

The best way to learn more about the history of Valletta is to opt for a guided tour of the city, with a very interesting tour guide! You need to book your tour here:

A private tour is also possible (You need to book it here). You can also opt for a historical tour (Valletta at the time of the Second World War) – book there!.

In order to discover the 3 cities on foot, you can also opt for a guided tour. It even include a tasting of local wines!

Another option is to spend a slightly quieter day: you can book a boat trip on a traditional Maltese boat, a Luzzu, to admire Valletta from the sea. Click here for more information!

Where to stay in Valletta

  • Private Room : Located 300 metres away from Fort St Elmo and 700 meters from the Upper Barrakka gardens. Comfortable double room from 75€, breakfast included. Strong points: the excellent location, the hospitality and kindness of the host, the calm.
  • Grand Harbour Hôtel: Hotel with traditional architecture, located in the heart of downtown Valletta, only 100 meters away from the Upper Barraka Gardens. Standard double room from 90€ per night or view sea + Three Cities view for 110€, breakfast included. Strong points: ideal location, magnificent view, roof terrace.
  • Tano’s Boutique guesthouse: Hotel located in the center of Valletta, very close to all the best places to visit. Spacious and bright double room from 115€ per night. Strong points: the central location, the calm, the terrace on the roof for breakfast. The best value for money in town!
  • Grand Hôtel Excelsior: 5* Hotel located on the waterfront, the view is stunning! Very nice rooms starting at 170€ per night. Strong points: The swimming pool, jacuzzi, free parking, the amazing breakfast and many other things that will make your stay in Valletta truly exceptional. My favourite place to stay in Valletta!
  • Hôtel Phoenicia Malta: Luxury hotel located on City Gate square. Spacious, bright and tastefully decorated double room from 349€, breakfast at 17€. Strong points: the infinity pool with view on the port, the huge garden, the place and the free private parking. It’s simply the best hotel in Valletta, if you can afford it.
Three cities Malta
The three cities from Valletta
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2) Mellieha (2 days)

For this second day in Malta, it’s time to go pick up your rental car at the airport (if you chose this option). If you are familiar with my travel tips, you know that I always rent cars via Rentalcars.com. Their full-protection insurance is very efficient and they refund costs very quickly in case of damages. It’s a stress-free solution.

Renting a car for 5 days in Malta starts from 35€ for a Fiat Panda kind of car. The full-coverage insurance on rentalcars.com costs 11.7€/day. The total cost of your car rental will be around 90€, pretty cheap price to pay for the freedom of going anywhere at anytime!

Once in your car, if you are not familiar with it, remember to drive on the left side of the road, especially in roundabouts! Be also careful to go in the right direction when you exit a parking lot (it only takes a second to make a mistake and I know what I’m talking about!)

I must confess, during our first trip to Malta, we rented an automatic car to feel safer and be able to focus on one thing at a time. It’s a little bit more pricey it’s true, but it makes everything much easier! Also, don’t hesitate to seek extra guidance from your copilot.

After all these precious (and free, you’re welcome) advices, let’s continue this one week itinerary by going to Mellieha.

On the road between the airport and Mellieha (located on the Northern part of the island), you should stop by to visit 2 amazing small neighboring towns: Mdina and Rabat.

Before the Knights arrived in Malta, Mdina was the capital. The government and various administrations were located there.

Mdina is a great place to explore on foot. Walk around the narrow streets to discover the main attractions such as St. Paul’s Cathedral or Vilhena Palace. It’s a fortified city so you can also enjoy some beautiful scenic views over the city’s outskirts from the ramparts.

Voyage Tips Advice

Visit Mdina in the early morning, before all the tourist buses get there. Everything becomes less charming with a zillion tourists around! We were lucky to visit the city when it was almost empty and we loved it!

The best way to discover Mdina is for sure to opt for a guided tour :

  • Guided tour of Mdina: the meeting point is at the main entrance of Mdina
  • Private guided tour on foot: the same tour as the one above, but only for you and your fellow travellers! The date and time of departure will be adapted to your itinerary.

Mdina
Mdina fortified city

Exit Mdina via Mdina Gate (the bridge over the moats) and you will directly be in Rabat, the neighbouring town.

Rabat is known to be the place where Paul the Apostle sought refuge after his ship sank. There, you will find a church, a cave and catacombs dedicated to him. It’s another lovely place to go on a stroll.

Then take your car again to continue this second day of your one week trip to Malta. Let’s now head to Mosta, where you will find a monumental church inspired by the Pantheon in Rome. It’s worth a souvenir photo!

Afterward, go explore some of the beautiful beaches around Mellieha. Here is the list:

  • Gejna Bay great for walks along the sea
  • Ghajn Tuffieha Bay and its unique rock formations
  • Golden Bay is also really worth stopping by
  • Paradise Bay and its turquoise water
  • Mellieha Bay, the biggest sandy beach with shallow water

A whole afternoon to try out Malta’s best swimming spots, isn’t it a pretty cool schedule?

Be careful though because there might be jellyfish in the water. During our afternoon in Ghajn Tuffieha Bay, we were not able to swim because of that.

After such a day, I’m sure that you will enjoy relaxing in one of the hotels listed a bit below in this guide.

Malta Beach

The day after, head to one of best places to visit during your 6, 7 or 8 days trip to Malta: Comino island.

If this name sounds familiar to you, it’s because Comino Island and its famous Blue Lagoon is probably the most touristic spot in Malta. If you’re like me and you like crystal clear turquoise water, it’s the perfect spot!

However, let me tell you beforehand that you won’t be the only one with such a great idea: The Blue Lagoon is a crowded spot, and this makes it a bit less exciting. It kind of feels like you’re in Ibiza with the big boats, beach club music and dozens of people coming from the boats.

Hopefully, there is a solution to avoid most of the crowd: go there either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. To get there you can opt for the “big boats” option and the package including free time on Comino + one meal. You will find all necessary utilities on board, including restrooms.

To book your trip to Comino from Malta, click on one of the following orange links:

1) Boat trip to the Blue Lagoon: the classic day trip to the Blue Lagoon, they can organize the transportation from most cities of Malta of you after booking for an extra fee.

2) Catamaran boat trip to the Blue Lagoon: same as above, but on a huge Catamaran! A great choice for a nice day at sea. Same as above, transport can be organized after booking.

3) Sailboat trip to the Blue Lagoon and other bays: want to discover more than just the Blue Lagoon? Choose this one! Snacks, wine and lunch + Free transportation from Malta included.

And if you prefer to be away from the other tourists, you should opt for a private boat trip to Comino Blue Lagoon:

4) Private VIP boat trip to Comino and Gozo (3h30): Simply the best private boat tour to Comino and the Blue Lagoon. Josef, your skipper, will make sure you will have an amazing moment at sea.

During your boat trip, you will stop at the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon for a swim (snorkeling equipment included!) and visit Comino sea caves.

In addition to the half day boat trip, Josef also offers a full day boat tour.

And you know the best?

It’s actually not much more expensive than the 3h30 boat trip, so if you have time to spend a full day at sea, you should opt for this one!

As Josef is doing only 1 boat trip per day, you should really book your full day private boat trip to Comino in advance by clicking on the button below:

There is a second option (we chose this one). You go to Marfa, 10min away from Mellieha, and you can take a shuttle to Comino. Roundtrip tickets cost 10€ for a 25min trip, leaving every 30min. It’s the best solution to go and come back as you please.

In Comino, besides taking a dip in crystal clear Blue Lagoon, you can also go for a walk. There are some very beautiful views all around the island. There is also another beach, Santa Maria Bay, way less crowded. It’s located next to the only hotel in Comino.

One good point to highlight: despite how touristy and crowded the place is, you can eat there for cheap. There are food trucks serving sandwiches and drinks at affordable prices and it’s even quite tasty.

Voyage Tips Advice

To organize your trip to Comino, you should have a look at my dedicated article: How to visit Comino?

If you want to be trendy in Comino, you must drink a cocktail in a pineapple! You will understand when you will be there.

Blue Lagoon Comino
Right next to the Blue Lagoon, way less people over there!

Where to stay in Mellieha

  • Pergola Hotel & Spa: located in Mellieha with a view over the bay, the village, Gozo and Comino. Studio apartment with kitchen amenities starting from 80€/night, breakfast for an additional 8€. Best features: kitchen amenities, view, excellent service, 3 swimming pools.
  • Maritim Antonine Hotel & spa: located in Mellieha, 1km away from a vast sand beach. Very spacious and elegent double room starting from 140€/night, breakfast included. Best features: rooftop swimming pool with a scenic view over the bay, heated pool and hot tubs, good buffet with many options, next to bus stops going to Valletta or to the beach. It’s the best value for money in Mellieha.
  • Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands: located in Golden Bay and 2min walking distance to a lovely beach. Big double room with balcony (sea view or countryside view) starting from 150€/night, breakfast for an additional 20€. Best feature: direct access to the beach, view, delicious breakfast and during summertime, you have free sunbeds and umbrellas on the private beach.

3) Gozo (2 days)

The third chapter of your week in Malta will take place in Gozo, Malta’s little sister island.

You first need to go to Cirkewwa to take the ferry to Gozo. From Mellieha, it’s only a 10min drive by car. There is no need to check departure times beforehand, no matter when you go, there is always a ferry leaving soon (especially during high season).

On top of that, boarding is very quick and well organized. You don’t have to pay anything on the way to Gozo. You only pay for the trip on your way back (20€ for a car and two people).

Inside the ferry, you’ll find a cafeteria and a shop selling magazines and snacks. The trip lasts about 20min.

Voyage Tips Advice
Don’t wait until the last minute to get back to your car, because once in the port, debarkation is super fast!

For this first day in Gozo, I suggest starting with the main city, Victoria or Rabat (in Maltese). A must see in Gozo is the Citadella located on top of a hill. You may have seen it already from the ferry. It’s the fortified part of the city.

Inside the Citadella, you can visit the old prisons and the cathedral but, above all, enjoy the 360° view over Gozo.

Once you’re done with the Citadella, it will be lunch time. You will find many restaurants and coffee shops on Repubblika street, the city’s main street, and also on Fortunato Mizzi street. It’s also a good time to do some shopping and get some local Gozo delicacies such as honey or goat cheese.

Gozo
Gozo island from above

In the afternoon, head to the Northwestern part of Gozo, towards Dwejra where the Azure Window used to be located.

So yes, it doesn’t exist anymore but the place itself still has great potential and is worth a visit! Other attractions are located there as well: the Inland Sea, the Deep Blue Hole and the Fungus Rock. Enough to blow your mind!

On your way back, stop at Ta’Pinu Basilica. Built on a hill, it is easily seen from afar. It’s a really impressive church from the outside, and is also very photogenic.

For your second day in Gozo, go to Marsalforn to see the salt pans. The city itself is not that pretty but the salt pans are really worth it. You can walk along them for a while and it’s truly beautiful.

Don’t hesitate either to keep going a bit further to Wied il Gashri. There is a naturally carved canyon, a real paradise for diving and swimming in clear water.

Then you can go to the beach. Gozo has beautiful swimming spots, it would be a shame not to enjoy them! Even if it’s not beach season or you don’t want to go in the water, it’s beautiful all year long, trust me!

Here are my two “real beaches” recommendations:

  • Ramla Bay (the first one when you come from Marsalforn) is the biggest beach in Gozo, with red sand and shallow water. Perfect for children. Small snacks, restaurants and restrooms are available there. You can also go up to the cave located on the right side and enjoy the view.
  • San Blas beach: a red sand beach like Ramla but smaller. It’ s a really lovely location with big rocks around it. The downside is that you can only access it on foot, and there is quite a steep slope on the way back. On a hot summer day it can be a bit hard!

And if you’re looking for a bit more action for your afternoon in Gozo, you should try one of the following nautical activities:

Lastly, to end this day with style, you can go to Ta’Cenc cliffs to enjoy the sunset.

Marsalforn salt pans
Marsalforn salt pans

I didn’t mention it but during these 2 days in Gozo, you can also go on very nice hikes around the island. There are multiples paths along the sea and the cliffs. One of my favorite starts from Mgarr, right of the ferry, and ends at a huge cliff along with a beautiful cove to swim in. You can also walk along the rocks from Dahlet Quorrot.

To discover the best hidden spots of Gozo and to learn more about the island, you should book a guided hike, with a local guide!

You can choose between a 2 hour or a full day hike:

For the list of the best things to do in Gozo, you can read my article: The 10 best places to visit in Gozo.

Voyage Tips - Advice

If you don’t feel like taking your car or if you don’t have a car, there are of course other ways to discover Gozo.

Personally, I have opted for the quad bike tour during my trip to Gozo and I really loved it!

It will allow you to discover the best places to visit in Gozo in a fun way with a local guide.

You will have the choice between 2 types of excursions: simply click on the orange links below to book them (do it as soon as possible, as the quad bike tours are the most popular of the island!)

Actually, these guided quad tours are so good, I’ve contacted the provider to offer you a discount code.

Only voyagetips readers are entitled to it, and it’s only available for the first 50 bookings made in 2024.

So don’t wait, and when you book, try entering the coupon code “tips5” for an instant 5% discount! 😎

If want to ride a quad bike in Gozo, but don’t want a guided tour, you can also rent a quad by clicking here. A GPS map is provided, so you’ll know exactly what to visit!

And if there’s no more availability for the guided tour and quad rental, you can see if the other provider who organizes guided tours of Gozo has any availability (click here)

Here are other great tours options, if you don’t want to drive:

The discount code “tips5” is also available for the 2 tuktuk tours below, which are offered by the same provider as the quad bikes.

And last solution, you can take the Hop-on Hop-off tourist bus to visit Gozo.

quad bikes hire Gozo
quad bikes hire Gozo

Where to stay in Gozo

  • Guesthouse Bambina: Guesthouse located in Xaghra, 10min walking from the beach. Modern with a zen vibe double room starting from 75€/night. Best features: amazing house with a swimming pool and a great view over Gozo, friendly staff, direct access to the beach, very good value. A great choice in Gozo for its excellent value for money.
  • Casa Gemelli Boutique Guesthouse: Charming hotel located in Victoria, the capital of Gozo. Fully renovated double room starting from 90€/night, breakfast included. Decoration is a mix of modern and traditional. Best features: central location, close to all the bus stops, homemade breakfast, friendly and helpful staff.
  • The Duke Boutique Hostel: Located in the center of Victoria. Very spacious and comfortable double room starting from 100€/night, breakfast included. Best features: location, great bedding, rooftop terrace view, great breakfast with many options, great staff, some rooms have a hot tub on the balcony.
  • Kempiski Hôtel San Lawrenz: Luxury hotel located in San Lawrenz, close to Inland Sea ad Ta’Pinu Basilica. Spacious and modern double room with balcony starting from 116€/night. Breakfast for an additional 25€. Best features: amazing view, huge swimming pools, indoor pool, free parking lot, outstanding breakfast, nice spa. It’s simply the best hotel in Gozo.

And if you prefer to stay in an apartment during trip to Gozo, you should book at The Holiday Hub Gozo.

Located in a typical Maltese building, this modern fully equipped penthouse features 3 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms and can comfortably host up to 6 people.

It’s the perfect accommodation for a trip with your friends or your family!

It also features 2 large terraces (75m²), ideal to enjoy a breakfast outside or an aperitif.

Last but not least: you will also have access to the 150m² rooftop featuring a Jacuzzi (hot tub), plunge pool and BBQ.

A great way to relax after a good day of sightseeing!

Strong points: the calm, the perfect location to visit Gozo, the rooftop and its superb view + the really friendly owners.

Our favorite in Gozo, you should book it really in advance!

To book your stay at The Holiday Hub, simply click the button below:

Ta' Cenc cliffs
Ta’ Cenc cliffs, in Gozo

4) Marsaxlokk (1 day)

For the last full day of your 6, 7 or 8 days itinerary in Malta, take the ferry back to the main island.

You will go South to Marsaxlokk and its surroundings. It’s a good place to spend your last night in Malta because it’s located only 15min away from the airport.

You will need to cross the island from North to South to get there, so I prepared for you the 3 best point of interests to see on the way:

  • The first is Popeye Village not far from Mellieha. This small village was entirely built to be a set for the “Popeye” movie with Robin Williams. Today, it’s an amusement park. You should stop at least to take a souvenir photo of the colorful houses at the bottom of the cliff.
  • Second stop are Dingli cliffs, Malta highest point at 250m above seal level. There, you can do a nice walk with beautiful viewpoints.
  • Third and last stop before Marsaxlokk is “The Blue Grotto“. This cave is famous for its intense blue water. You can see it from above at a viewpoint located near Zurrieq town, or opt for a boat tour that will take you inside. Departure is from Wied Il Zurrieq port, next to the viewpoint and the tour lasts about 30min.
Blue Grotto Malta
The Blue Grotto, from the viewpoint

You will arrive in Marsaxlokk in the late morning. If it’s on a Sunday, there will be a big market next to the port, with fish, fruits and vegetables but also many souvenirs stalls. It’s the perfect place to buy souvenirs as it is way cheaper than in Valletta.

It’s also a lovely town to explore during the week, with all the colored boats (called luzzi) in the port. It’s also a great place to have lunch in one of the many seafood restaurants or pizzerias. Everything is pretty affordable.

After lunch, you should go see another must see in Malta, St Peter’s Pool. It would be sad to miss it during your 1 week stay!

It’s only 10 minutes by car from Marsaxlokk and the signs on the road make it very easy to find. There are 2 free parking lots when you get there. Then, St Peter’s Pool is less than 3min away on foot.

Don’t forget your swimsuits, it’s hard to resist taking a dip in this natural pool. On the other hand,  you can only go in the water by jumping or going down a ladder among the rocks. So I don’t recommend it if you travel with very young children.

If you keep going further on the right, you will find a more accessible spot where rocks are shaped like hot tubs next to the water. You can also go on a nice walk along the coast.

To end the day, you can take your car again and drive a bit further to Marsaskala. There is a nice beachfront walk there.

St Peter's Pool
St Peter’s Pool

Where to stay in Marsaxlokk

  • Port View Guesthouse: Guesthouse located in Marsaxlokk, a lovely fishermen village with a popular Sunday market. Modern and comfortable double room starting from 70€/night, breakfast included. Best features: next to the sea, good breakfast and excellent service.
  • Harbour Lodge: Located right next to the fishing port. Quiet and comfortable double room starting from 85€/night, breakfast included. Best features: quiet location, free parking lot, free shuttle to the airport.

Other ideas of activities for your 1 week trip to Malta

You want to enjoy more activities during your one week trip to Malta?

Great idea!

Here is the complete list of all the best activities to do in Malta. Enjoy!

For more information about these activities and to book them, simply click on the following links:

The 4 best activities to do in Malta

It’s your first trip to Malta and you want to focus on the best activities and excursions?

In that case, I have selected for you the 4 activities and excursions you can’t miss during your trip to Malta.

So, here are my 4 favorites!

1) Going on a boat trip to Comino Blue Lagoon

2) Visiting Gozo by Quad bike or Jeep

  • Full day Quad bike tour in Gozo, with departure from Malta (transport included). Return by boat via Comino and the Blue Lagoon! Definitely one of the best activities in Malta!
  • Renting quad bikes in  Gozo: To visit Gozo, you can also rent quad bikes! You can get the best quad bikes (brand new, 450cc) by clicking here and booking them directly on Quad Bikes Gozo website. The rental include helmets, free 2nd driver and a GPS map of Gozo’s best places to visit.
  • Gozo: Jeep tour – Pick up at your hotel in Malta included. A great way to discover Gozo if you don’t want to drive!

3) Diving in Malta and Gozo

4) Jet-ski-tour around Comino (Blue Lagoon)

  • Jet Ski Tour (From Gozo) – Follow your instructor on an epic 1h tour around Comino and discover the sea caves! – Call me at +356 7920 1451 (phone or whatsapp) and I will book the activity for you!

In addition to the 4 amazing activities mentioned above, here is the complete list, with all other activities you can do in Malta:

1) The best activities in Malta (and from Malta)

Boat trips to the Blue Lagoon

Blue Lagoon Catamaran
Blue Lagoon – Catamaran

Visiting Gozo from Malta

Guided visits and excursions in Malta

Other activities to enjoy in Malta

Partying in Malta

If you want to take advantage of your stay in Malta to party (on your last evening or maybe even on several evenings during your stay !), you should:

  • Go on a pub crawl and make friends from all other the world – Click here!
  • Dance all night long in one of Paceville nightclubs
  • Opt for a boat party with an open bar.

Hiking tour in Malta
Hiking tour in Malta

2) The best activities in Gozo

Boat trips

Other activities / Guided tours

Nautical activities

Gozo from above
Gozo from above! 

Book your 1 week tour to Malta in 1 click

In this guide, I gave you all my best tips to plan your 6, 7 or 8 days trip to Malta by yourself.

To make your life even easier, I am now offering you to book your trip to Malta in 1 click on “Autotour by Voyage Tips”!

No need to worry about organization: Hotels, car rental and activities, everything will be booked by our team of travel professionals who will create a personalized roadbook for you!

To book your tour to Malta and Gozo now, it’s very simple:

  1. Select the duration of your trip by clicking here or on the button below
  2. Select the hotel category of your choice on the tour page (budget, premium or luxury)
  3. Choose your other options and book your trip in 1 click!

You will see, organizing your trip has never been so easy 😎

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Renting a boat in Malta

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your itinerary in Malta, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental.

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Malta? 😊

Budget for a one week trip to Malta

It’s always good to have a general idea of the cost of a one week trip to Malta. This is what I spent:

  • Accommodation for 2 people for one week : 385€
  • Transportation for 2  (flight + car rental + Gozo Ferry): 370€
  • Visits for 2 : 65€
  • Food for 2 : 200€

Total Budget total for 2 people for 7 days : 1020€

One week in Malta : my impressions

Malta is an awesome small country to visit.

What I will remember the most from this week is the beauty of the natural landscapes. They are so beautiful and you will find amazing views at every corner. There are also all the lovely little turquoise water coves, they will make you want to get in the water for sure.

I especially liked Gozo island. It’s more quiet and rural than its neighbor, yet as stunning. It’s the perfect location to go on relaxing strolls and really enjoy your vacation.

Las but not least: the food! If you follow me for some time you have probably noticed that food is quite important to me. Another good point for Malta because I enjoyed every meal! Whether a simple sandwich, a pizza or pasta, everything is well made and really affordable.

If you have any questions about your 6, 7 or 8 days itinerary in Malta, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section.

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Malta itinerary 7 days
Malta itinerary: 6, 7 or 8 days
Anonymous

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

Discussion23 Comments

  1. Celia

    Thanks so much for this – super helpful!

    My husband and I are thinking of going to Malta in a couple of weeks and have literally zero knowledge of the country and didn’t have a clue where to start planning our last minute trip, but thanks to your one-week itinerary we’ll probably end up following this to the letter –
    it looks fantastic, and a great way to make the most of a week visiting Malta!

    • Vincent

      Hi Celia,

      I am really glad my itinerary article is helping you to plan your one week trip to Malta.

      Enjoy your trip, and if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask me!

  2. Celia

    Hi Vincent,

    So the flights are booked and I’m just putting together our itinerary (based completely on yours!!). We have a few extra days than what’s outlined above, so which places would you recommend we spend an extra day or so? We arrive on Monday 1 October and fly home on Thursday 10th so have 2 days to fill! No accommodation booked yet, so need to work this around how long we’ll be staying in each place. Thanks for your help, it’s very much appreciated! 🙂

    Celia

    • Vincent

      Hi Celia,

      If you have 10 days, you should read my 10 days itinerary in Malta, it should answer all your questions regarding how to spend your extra time on the island 🙂
      You can find it here: How to spend 10 days in Malta?

      After, if you have any specific questions, don’t hesitate to ask me on the other itinerary article!

  3. Peggy

    Vincent,
    Great info as we do not know anything about Malta.
    We are thinking of going in Feb..
    Any tips for this time of year?
    Also we enjoy hiking and biking…any ideas for this?
    We are looking at a place we will have for a week and doing a car rental.
    I understand the island is small.
    Is this an option that will work with your itinerary? or at all on the island?
    Our options for accommodations are St.Julian’s and
    We are thinking 1-2 weeks.
    Thanks,
    Peggy

    • Vincent

      Hi Peggy,

      I am glad my one week itinerary in Malta is helping you to plan your trip!

      About february, it’s a bit rainy in Malta, and there is quite much wind. You will probably have a few nice days, but you shouldn’t expect sunny weather all days at that time of the year.

      For hiking and biking, you will be a lot better on Gozo island (Malta’s little sister island, a lot more rural) rather than Malta. So I would suggest you to spend a few days in Malta to visit and then head to Gozo to enjoy the nature and calm 🙂

      In that case, 2 accommodations will be the minimum: 1 in Malta (where you want, as you said, the island is quite small) and another on in Gozo. I would however not suggest you St.Julian, it’s not a very nice place and it’s very busy. It’s also a nightmare in terms of traffic during rush hours, as a lot of companies are located there.

      It’s a lot nicer to stay around Valletta or maybe Mellieha town. If you need help to choose your hotel, just let me know!

      By the way, if you want to see how to plan a longer trip in Malta (10 days or 2 weeks), I give a detailed itinerary in this article: How to spend 10 days or 2 weeks in Malta

      Enjoy your trip, and if you have any other question, don’t hesitate to ask me.

    • Vincent
      Vincent

      Hi,

      January and February are unfortunately the rainiest months in Malta (7-8 days of rain per month in average). It’s not very warm neither (about 15°C during the day) and quite windy.
      You can of course have a few very nice sunny days, but there is no doubt you will also get the wind and a bit of rain during your trip.

      To sum it up, it’s not the best period to visit Malta (I would rather recommend end of April or May, if you don’t mind not swimming) but, it will be the best weather you can get in Europe during those months.

      So it’s really up to you!

  4. Nat

    Hi Vincent

    Wow I have just come across your Blogg and it is gold.

    My sister (66yrs) and I (71 yrs) will be visiting Malta for about a week from the middle of May and we will follow your 6,7 or 8 day itinerary. It’s sounds amazing and knowing nothing and not knowing where to start, will follow this all the way – thank you for sharing your knowledge in in such clear and precise detail.

    I just wonder if it would be an option to base ourselves in one or two places and go from there each day following your itinerary. Please give me your thoughts and advice on this.

    Regards
    Nat

    • Vincent
      Vincent

      Hi Nat,

      Thank you! I am really glad my article about Malta is helping you to plan your stay!

      For your one week trip to Malta, if you don’t want to change accommodation each day, the best is to stay around Mellieha, on the North East coast.
      You will be close to the best beaches and you can also easily go to Comino and Gozo.
      From Mellieha, Mdina is only 20 minutes by car and Valletta 40 minutes.
      The island is very small.

      You can also choose to split between 2 places: Mellieha and Gozo (Malta’s little sister island).
      You will need 2 days to visit Gozo so you can spend 1 or 2 nights there instead of doing the round trip with the ferry each day.

      It’s up to you, both solutions are ok.

      Enjoy your trip, and if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me.

  5. Heidi

    Your article was very helpful, thanks. My daughter and I plan to visit Malta for 6 days. My main goal is to explore the island and see if this may be a place we might move to. Any suggestions, additions, for the itinerary for someone like us that need to not only have fun but need to really get a feel for the life there?

    • Vincent
      Vincent

      Hello Heidi,

      Thank you!

      I’m glad that my 7 days itinerary in Malta helps you plan your trip to this beautiful island.

      As Malta is quite small, the best to get a feel of the local the life is to take a car and drive around the island. In one day, you can have a really good idea of what Malta looks like.

      As you are looking for a place to stay, it really depends on what your are looking for:

      For example (as I really know the island well), I can say that most young expats (and tourists!) prefer to stay around Sliema/St Julian, because there are many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

      However, in my opinion, this place very ugly and way too noisy.

      The North East of the Island (Buggiba, St Paul Bay, Mellieha) is better suited for families, prices are cheaper and it’s close to the most beautiful beaches of the island.

      And if you’re looking for something authentic, you should spend time on the small island of Gozo: it’s greener and more traditional than Malta main island!.

      However, depending how old your daughter is, she might find living in Gozo too boring (if she is a teenager for example).

      If you need help to plan your week in Malta, don’t hesitate to ask me!

      Enjoy your trip,

  6. Shanie

    Hi Vincent

    I find the information here super helpful with sound advice. There are great tips and now we feel really excited to visit this island. My husband and I are planning a week holiday in Malta in July/August to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary. We are both in our 50’s and were thinking of staying in one really nice hotel with all amenities near the beach and be able to easily visit other places. This is our main holiday in 2 years and we would like it to be special. Which place would you recommend?
    Thanks
    Regards
    Shanie

    • Vincent
      Vincent

      Hi Shanie,

      I am super glad you’re enjoy reading my guide of Malta!

      The most beautiful beaches of Malta are located in the north of the island, so in my opinion the best hotel to stay next to the beach is the Radisson Blu Resort and Spa. You can click here to check the rates for your trip date.

      However, if you want a quieter place, I would really recommend you to opt for Gozo.

      There, you have 2 really good hotels:

      Kempinksi hotel San Lawrenz
      Hotel Ta’Cenc & Spa

      If you stay in Gozo, you can go to Ramla bay beach, which is very beautiful.

      To visit Malta from Gozo, you can take the new fast ferry. It takes you to Valletta (the capital of Malta) in 45 minutes.

      You would then need to take the bus or a cab (you can use “Bolt” app, it’s like Uber, it’s very convenient and cheap) to visit other places such as Mdina.

      Enjoy your week in Malta and Gozo and if you have other questions, don’t hesitate!

  7. Ashley

    Hi Vincent,

    Came across your website while doing a ‘Malta tourist Map’ search.

    Lot of valuable info here so will be spending some time going through it all.

    We are doing a week trip in August. everything has been booked but I might play around with the hotel etc. I am planning to rent a car so ‘free’ car parking will be very essential.

    Is there a link to your ‘tourist map’ that I can download? Or do you know of a website where I can download one?

    Regards

    Ash

    • Vincent
      Vincent

      Hi Ash,

      Thanks!

      As I said in this article, you can save the picture of the Malta tourist map directly on your phone or get a paper version at the tourist office in Malta.

      About the parking: you can park your car everywhere in the streets, it’s always free.
      The only exception is in Valletta. Access by car is strictly prohibited for non resident. You will have to let your car in the MCP car park which is a underground paid parking.

      Enjoy your stay in Malta!

  8. Helen

    Hi

    We have 8 days. In May 2023. Can pick up a car.
    Would you advise staying in one place or two to see the best of the islands? And if so where? 50’s, interested in history and culture and hiking, couple.

    Thanks

    • Vincent
      Vincent

      Hello,

      For your 8 day itinerary in Malta, I would advise you to choose at least 2 places: one accommodation in Malta (either towards Valletta or towards St Paul’s Bay/Mellieha) and one in Gozo (where you will be able to do a lot of nice walks).

      Enjoy your trip to Malta!

  9. Hilary Johnson

    Anywhere in particular you’d recommend in Gozo?
    We have booked 5 nights in Valletta already and plan 3 nights in Gozo

  10. Victoria

    Hi Vincent,

    We are planning on taking a couples trip to Malta in late August for a week.

    Is it possible to get around the islands and follow your 1 week Itineray by public transportation like bus and ferries? And if yes, is there a place where we can view busplans etc. We are both studying so the budget might not allow for a car, unfortunately.

    Also, would you recommend staying at hotels or AirBnb, or is both equally fine? We are looking for the cheapest solution, but also a proper bed, seeing that I have back problems.

    Lastly, I was wondering how to best explore the islands when there is so much moving around and switching accommodation – should we travel with backpacks or are suitcases okay? I must admit it took me by surprise how much moving around there seems to be if you want to see it all.

    Best, Victoria

    • Vincent
      Vincent

      Hello Victoria,

      You can use the buses to get around but this will not allow you to do all the visits I planned in this itinerary (for example, you will not be able to see all the beaches in the north of Malta).

      In August, it’s very busy in Malta and the bus are taking the busiest streets, so you should expect getting stuck in a few traffic jams during your stay. Also, if the bus is full, it doesn’t stop, so you have to wait for the next one.

      All in all, if taking the bus; you would waste a lot of time and will have to reduce the number of visits you will do.

      The official website for buses in Malta is here: Tallinja.

      For accommodation, both can be suitable. But you should look and book now because Malta is not a cheap destination anymore, especially in August. And the best deals go away quickly!
      One of the cheapest is a hostel located in Saint Julian (it’s pretty good): Inhawi Boutique Hostel.

      If you don’t want to change accommodation too often, I recommend you to take one accommodation in Malta and another one in Gozo. Without a car, it’s the most convenient (and so you can take backpacks or suitcases depending on what you prefer).

      Enjoy your week in Malta!

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