Malta's a stunning little archipelago (group of islands) in the Med, packing a beachy punch with scorchin' sands and epic diving spots.

Good to Know

🏰 Fun Fact: Calling all Game of Thrones superfans (let's cry over the finale later) - Malta was the filming location for some of the most iconic moments (see Fort Ricasoli). Time to play spot-the-scene!

🏖️ Best Beach: It's got to be Golden Bay, decked out with soft sands, clear-as-anything water and loads of snack spots for when you get peckish.

🍺 Price of a Pint: Between €2.50 - €5 - way to give your local pub a run for its money!

Destination highlights

• A beach for every mood (think boujee, breezy or pure bliss)

• One of the Med's top diving destinations - pack your GoPro!

• Packed with history so you can memorise some facts for the next pub quiz

• Home to scenic capital, Valetta, which cameos in Game of Thrones

💬 Local lingo 💬

Who says you can't sound like a total local on your Malta holidays? Drop these phrases into convo and you might just get the best pastizzi rec going (trust us, you’ll want to know).

Hello - Merħba

Hi - Bonġu

Bye - Ċaw

How are you? - Kif inti?

Thank you - Grazzi

You're welcome - Ta’ xejn

How much is it? - Kemm jiswa?

Where is the bus stop? - Fejn hi l-waqfa tal-linja?

Getting around

🚌 Buses - The Tallinja Card is your golden ticket when it comes to getting around on holidays to Malta. It's your way to get unlimited travel, but if that's a bit too much commitment, you can pay contactless for each bus ride - and it's super cheap. Not to mention the blasting air con and the routes that cover just about everywhere - even some of the top beaches. Don't mock the bus life.

🚖 Taxis and Bolt - If you’re not feeling waiting at bus stops, taxis and ride-hailing apps like 'Bolt' are all over Malta. They're super convenient for short trips when you're in a pickle, especially if you're heading back from a late dinner in Valletta or a boujee night out in St Julian’s. Just keep an eye on surge pricing after hours – it can be a bit steep!

🚤 Ferries - Fancy a commute with a side of MEGA views? The ferry is your new best friend. There's one that zips between Valetta, Sliema and the Three Cities for a super quick and scenic way to get around. For longer day trips to Gozo or Comino, the ferries from Ċirkewwa have you covered. Our top tip? Grab a seat on the top deck for that Insta-worthy coastline view.

Where’s the best area to stay on your Malta holidays?

Malta might be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to places to stay. Here’s the lowdown on the top spots to rest your head:

• Sliema & St Julian’s – packed with swanky waterfront hotels, a buzzing promenade, and top-tier restaurants - perfect for fancy-pants couples holidays or anyone looking for something lively yet stylish.

• Valletta – Malta’s capital is all history, culture, and charm. Think grand architecture, epic sea views, and plenty of boutique stays for all you city break fans.

• Mellieħa – great for beach-lovers, this northern gem is home to some of Malta’s best sand spots, making it perfect for families, chilled-out couples, and anyone who fancies a lazy beach day (...us).

• Bugibba & Qawra – a lively mix of budget-friendly stays, fun bars, and a fab seafront - ideal for families, groups, and anyone who likes a bit of everything.

• Gozo – we think of this place as Malta’s laidback little sis, perfect for nature-lovers and anyone craving a slow-paced break. Think stunning countryside, delish seafood, and proper relaxed vibes.

• St Paul’s Bay – with a mix of local charm and tourist-friendly fun, this is a top pick for relaxed holidays with easy access to beaches, boat trips, and seriously tasty seafood.

• Comino – Comino’s all about crystal-clear waters, epic snorkelling, and a completely chilled-out atmosphere for an off-the-grid feel. Just you, the sea, and vibes.

What are the best beaches to hit up on your holidays to Malta?

Malta's coastline is as gorgeously rugged as a Hollywood actor who's aging like fine wine (we'll let you insert your own name). It's the perfect pick for beach holidays with a twist, so you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to finding the best backdrop for your seafront sunbathe. Whether you're looking for cheap as chips, one of our last-minute Malta deals, or you're thinking ahead to your 2026 holidays... we've got your beachy bucketlist covered:

• Blue Lagoon, Comino: the ultimate beach for those Insta-worthy shots, with vibrant waters so bright you'll think you're in the middle of a Photoshop ad. This place is a huge hit with the kiddos and snorkelling fans too.

• Golden Bay: true to its name, this beach is home to the toastiest golden sands, backed by a lush green hillside, because...get you a bit of coast that does both. It's well-equipped for a day out too, so it's great for some fam-friendly fun.

• Ghajn Tuffieha: much easier to lounge on than it is to pronounce, this laidback stretch is just a stone's throw from Golden Bay, but with much fewer crowds. The hike down to it (and back up afterwards) isn't for the fainthearted, but it's totally worth it for the little slice of paradise you'll find waiting for you.

• Paradise Bay: with a name this promising, you know it's gonna be good, and this place is a top pick for a sizzling day out. Tucked away near the Gozo ferry, it's a cosy little cove with clear, shallow waters ideal for young paddlers, and a backdrop that's straight off a postcard.

• Ramla Bay, Gozo: speaking of Gozo, this spot takes the cake as (allegedly) one of the best in Malta! We'll let you be the judge, but if the rich red sands, raw beauty and lengthy shore are anything to go by, we think we know where we stand.

• St. Peter's Pool: a moment for the rock pools, please. This natural swimming pool is bursting with charm, housing clear blue waters perfect for a swim if you fancy something a bit different.

• Mellieha Bay: Malta's biggest beach had to get a mention, swooping down to shallow waters perfect for the kiddos, and packed with amenities that'll have you set for a full day out.

What are the top hotels to stay at on your Malta holidays?

Looking for somewhere to stay in Malta? We've got you! From all-inclusive bangers to beachfront beauts, check out these top spots:

• db Seabank Resort and Spa: for a stay where you're treated like royalty, the views are as delish as the food, there's a spa to pamper yourself silly, and the all-inclusive concept is off the charts. 'Nough said.

• DoubleTree by Hilton Malta: perched right on the edge of the Med, this place is all about the mega views, with an infinity pool to soak it all up, a cute poolside bar, and an on-site casino in case you're feeling lucky.

• Hotel Phoenicia: deemed as one of Malta's swankiest stays, this place has gardens that look like they've been plucked straight from a fairytale book, food options for every mood, a mini golf course - and, it's just a quick journey from Valetta's historic centre.

• AX The Palace: if you can't resist a bit of luxe living, then this is the place for you. It's all about the chic vibes, from the rooftop pool to the plush rooms and jaw-dropping city views... not to mention the spa facilities for the ultimate pamper sesh.

• Riviera Spa Resort - Adults Only: if you're all about the "no kids allowed" vibes, then this is your place. It's got spa and fitness facilities on-site, delish dining spots from buffet to a la carte and three bars for ultimate tipples and chills.

• Luna Holiday Complex: a budget-friendly option for those no-fuss stay essentials. We're talking cosy rooms with all the basics, friendly staff, a rooftop pool, Sky Lounge and a handy location that's just a hop, skip and a flip-flop away from some of Malta's best beaches (see above).

• Barcelo Fortina Malta - Adults Only: for those of you craving some kid-free downtime, we feel you. This adults-only paradise is decked out with a dreamy pool area at its own Beach Club, a restaurant serving delish Maltese classics, a seafront location, and an on-site spa for your dose of zen.

Malta holidays 2025 travel guide

⭐ Off the radar: The non-tourist side of Malta ⭐

One of the perks of exploring off the beaten track is that it means your holidays to Malta come without having to wait in a queue or duck beneath a selfie stick. For some downtime away from the crowds, try swapping the typical tourist traps for some of the more underrated activities. Check out the Ta’ Ħaġrat Temples for a culture fix (it's the quieter, older version of the teeming Ġgantija), head to the fishing village of Marsaxlokk (on a non-market day), escape busy viewpoints and head for the Dingli Cliffs at sunset instead, or think like a local and try your hand at a game of bocci. It's Malta's local sport, and there's a club in nearly every village, so no excuses for not giving it a go.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Things to do in Malta with kids

Oh, the family holiday dilemma: to bask in the all-inclusive luxury where the toughest decision is pool or buffet? Or to embark on an adventure that has you discovering new wonders every day? Well, if you've pigeon-holed Malta as just a dreamy escape for lovebirds or a squad retreat, think again! This gem is a kiddo-friendly paradise where the grown-ups can soak up the fab culture and stunning cityscapes while the little adventurers have a blast too.

Fancy a day where the fam can splash about under the glorious Maltese sun? That's what waterparks are for, people! Splash and Fun Park in Bahar ic-Caghaq is your go-to. Open for the summer holiday vibes, this place is a hit with families, packed with slides, rides, and all kinds of attractions to keep the laughs coming all day long. And for the chill squad who'd rather keep it cool than scream down a waterslide, there are a bunch of pools to dip into, including a wicked wave pool, plus plenty of sun loungers for a bit of R&R.

If you're itching for a break from the usual sun, sea, and sand routine (can't relate but you do you), Malta’s National Aquarium is a fab alternative. It's fun and a bit of a brain boost for all ages. Scoot the little ones along to marvel at the dazzling sea life (can anyone spot Nemo?) and get schooled (see what we did there?) on the diverse species that live off the island’s coasts. Oh, and just when you think you’ve seen it all, there’s a reptile and amphibian zone ready to wow you with some of the planet’s most intriguing critters!

❤️ Things to do in Malta for couples

Malta’s basically built for romance – we’re talking landscapes so gorg they could outshine your sunset snaps, attractions with more charm than a whole season of Gilmore Girls, and coastlines made for hand-holding strolls and stolen kisses (stop making that face). We're talking you and your other half holed up in a swanky hotel by the sea, then heading off to a candlelit dinner at one of the island’s sweet-as-can-be restaurants.

For a dreamy must-do, it's gotta be Mdina Old City – AKA The Silent City. No cars, no chaos, just cobbled streets, ancient architecture, and total fairytale vibes. You can wander past St. Paul’s Cathedral, have a mooch in the National Museum of Natural History, and chill at Buskett Gardens. It’s giving historic romance novel. The girls who get it get it.

And for the foodie couples, listen up – Malta’s a full-on flavour fest. From pastizzi to fresh seafood, you’ll want to eat EVERYTHING. Need some date night inspo? Go full #couplegoals and sign up for a cooking class at Diar il-Bniet or The Mediterranean Culinary Academy. Let's be honest, nothing says romance like whipping up your own Maltese masterpiece (bonus points for extra garlic).

🥳 Things to do in Malta for young adults

Off to Malta with your bestie or the whole gang? Buckle up, because this sun-drenched island is a full-on playground for young adults living their best holibob life. Beach days? Tick. City adventures? Tick. Cultural deep-dives and wild nights out? Big. Fat. Tick. Basically, whatever vibe you’re chasing, Malta's ready to deliver.

To break up those sunbathing sessions with something a bit more adventurous, Malta’s not just beaches and bronzing – it’s got serious hiking cred. Hit up the Dingli Cliffs for views that'll make your camera roll weep (and your followers jealous). It's 250m above sea level with the sea stretching out forever and Filfla giving a friendly wave from the distance. Greedy for more? Gozo and Comino have trails and nature spots that are totally chef’s kiss for your Insta reels and post-hike chills.

You know what they say...when the sun dips, the volume goes up – and Paceville in St Julian’s is where the party’s absolutely popping off. From bouncing bars to club nights that just don’t quit, there’s something for every night owl here. Whether you’re all about house beats, indie anthems, or just vibing on a rooftop with a cocktail in hand, you’ll find your groove here. One thing's for sure – early nights don't exist here.

We've got loads of deals on last-minute jollies, which means you can go from bed to beach as early as next week and get LOADS more splash for your cash. Bosh.

💰 Things to do in Malta for FREE

Living your best holiday life without rinsing your bank account? We’re all about it. You don’t need to drop serious cash to have a banging time in Malta – sometimes all it takes is a beach towel, a bit of sun, and a snack that didn’t cost half your daily budget.

Need some inspo? First up: snorkelling. Yep, it's totally free, it's totally fab, and those crystal-clear waters? They’re basically begging for an underwater selfie. Head to Paradise Bay or the Blue Lagoon in Comino – both are prime spots to spot marine life and chill like a total pro, no entry fee required.

Feeling extra? Hop on a ferry (okay, this bit’s a few euros, but still a bargain) and check out Gozo. Think of it as Malta’s laidback little sibling – home to quiet villages, lush green countryside, and just enough history to make you feel like you’re soaking up culture while you soak up the sun. It’s giving rustic charm and zero tourist chaos.

So yeah, you really can do Malta on a shoestring and still have a 10/10 time. Bosh.

🎄 Things to do in Malta at Christmas

Sick of the UK’s soggy December and dreaming of swapping mince pies for mojitos? Malta's here to save the day (and so are we) with a winter sun jolly. Think sun-kissed skies instead of snowstorms, and beachwear replacing that itchy Christmas jumper you bought in the sale. Trust us – Christmas dinner tastes way better with a sea view.

When the festive season hits, Valletta absolutely glows up. We’re talking twinkly lights, beaut decorations and enough seasonal sparkle to outshine your auntie’s baubles (not a euphemism). From markets packed with cute little gifts to cosy spots for a cheeky mulled wine (or two), the capital’s basically a real-life festive fairy tale – but with palm trees.

Bringing the kiddos along for the ride? Popeye’s Village in Mellieħa goes full North Pole mode. This quirky film set-turned-theme park gets totally transformed into a festive wonderland, complete with live shows, a toy-making Santa zone (erm, sign us up???), and more Christmassy chaos than Santa’s very own grotto. It’s pure magic – and yes, adults will (not-so) secretly love it too. Let's bring that festive fun to the Med.