In a nutshell
- Malta has some seriously cool activities for every type of traveler — from history and archaeology to water sports and family-friendly fun.
- Because Malta is a small island, it doesn’t really matter where your hotel in Malta is located. You can reach pretty much any activity spot easily by rental car or Uber.
- Our personal favorites — alongside exploring Mdina, Rabat, and Valletta — are a boat trip to Gozo and a parasailing flight.
Mdina & Rabat anschauen
What can you expect? Mdina is the former capital of Malta. It’s over 4,000 years old, one of the top attractions in Malta, and flows seamlessly into the small town of Rabat. Both towns are packed with historic spots, museums, and churches — and they even served as filming locations for Game of Thrones and Gladiator 2.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! Mdina and Rabat are authentic and seriously impressive. If you’re visiting Malta, you have to see both towns — no question. It’s easy to do on your own, and you can get there comfortably by car or super cheaply with an Uber.
Our tip: Try to time your visit so you arrive in Mdina before 10 AM. That way you’ll experience the city before the tourist crowds show up, in its perfect silence — Mdina is actually nicknamed the Silent City for a reason.
St. Paul's Katakomben besichtigen
What can you expect? In Rabat you’ll find St. Paul’s Catacombs — underground Roman burial sites dating back to the 4th century AD. You can easily visit without a guide, and tickets are available for a small fee at the on-site ticket office.
Is it worth it? Totally! The catacombs are remarkably well preserved and make for a fascinating, wonderfully quiet place. Exploring this underground cemetery is a refreshingly different kind of thing to do in Malta. And in summer, it’s pleasantly cool down there — a welcome break from the heat.
Our tip: You can buy a combo ticket on-site for the catacombs and the Domus Romana — a house from Roman times — and visit both. That’s what we did, and we’d really recommend it.
Mach eine Bootstour nach Gozo
What can you expect? Malta has loads of boat trips to Gozo and Comino — the small neighboring islands. During the tour, you’ll cruise along Malta’s coastline with stops for swimming and snorkeling, including at the popular Blue Lagoon and the Crystal Lagoon, which is still something of a lesser-known spot in Malta.
Is it worth it? We took a boat tour from Sliema to Gozo ourselves and loved every single minute. Snorkeling in turquoise-blue water, live audio commentary on board, and honestly really delicious hot dogs — it was an unforgettable day out on the water.
Book boat tour from Sliema to Gozo
More boat tours in Malta
Also read our experience report:
Valletta entdecken
What can you expect? Valletta is the historic capital of Malta, perched on a peninsula. It’s full of stunning architecture, winding alleyways, all kinds of attractions, and great shopping.
Is it worth it? Without a doubt! A day trip to Valletta is a must. The atmosphere is truly special — you can feel the city’s history in every street. You can also switch seamlessly from sightseeing to shopping, or just sit back and relax at a sidewalk café. For us, it’s one of the most beautiful places in Malta.
Our tip: A guided tour through Valletta is a great option if you want to discover the city’s most beautiful spots while learning about its history along the way.
Book a guided tour of Valletta
Find out even more about Valletta here:
Mach einen Parasailing-Flug auf Malta
What can you expect? Parasailing lifts you into the air attached to a parachute via a towline, pulled by a speedboat. You’ll glide about 170 meters above the Mediterranean — and don’t worry, the crew gives you a full briefing beforehand. No practice or prior experience needed.
Is it worth it? 100%! If you want a fun water activity in Malta, we seriously recommend the parasailing flight. We did it ourselves and had a blast. A little thrill without a lot of effort — great combo, if you ask us. Even the boat ride out to sea before lifting off was a highlight in itself.
Book a parasailing flight in Malta
Am Golden Bay Beach sonnen
What can you expect? Golden Bay Beach on the northwest coast is the most beautiful sandy beach in Malta. Fine golden sand, clear water, a gentle entry into the sea, and dramatic cliffs all around. You can also rent sun loungers, umbrellas, and beach gear on-site.
Is it worth it? Definitely! Most beaches in Malta are rocky with no sand — and we personally love those too. But if you want a classic sandy beach day, Golden Bay is the place. Make sure you snorkel along the rocks too — there are seriously so many fish out there.
Our tip: During peak season this place gets really crowded. To snag a good spot, we recommend arriving by 9 AM.
Fahre mit dem Jeep über Gozo
What can you expect? This full-day jeep tour picks you up directly from your hotel in Malta, takes you to the Ċirkewwa ferry terminal, and whisks you across to Gozo. Once there, you’ll explore the most beautiful towns, highlights, and hidden coves by jeep.
Is it worth it? Really well organized and a fantastic excursion away from the main island. You barely have to think about logistics and you see a lot for your money. The stops along the way are brilliantly chosen, so you get to discover Gozo in all its facets.
Bestaune die Megalith-Tempel von Malta
What can you expect? The megalithic temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra date back to between 3,600 and 2,500 BC and are among the oldest freestanding structures in the world. Set in open countryside and sheltered by tent-like canopies, you can buy tickets for a self-guided visit on-site or opt for a guided tour.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra are a standout destination for anyone into archaeology. The site is unique and genuinely captivating — it’s hard to wrap your head around the fact that it was all built by hand. There are also great hiking opportunities in the surrounding area, especially toward the nearby cliffs.
Our tip: At midday it can get really hot here, even with the canopies. Your best bet is to visit in the morning or on cooler days — and cool off afterward with a swim at the nearby Blue Grotto.
Book a guided temple tour in Malta
Mache einen Tauchkurs auf Malta
What can you expect? This diving course takes you from complete beginner to certified diver. You’ll complete an online module at home beforehand, then get a hands-on introduction to the equipment and safety rules on-site. After that comes a practice dive covering all kinds of scenarios — and then the real highlight: your first proper dive into Malta’s underwater world.
Is it worth it? If you’ve always wanted to dive in the open sea, this is a fantastic opportunity. Everything is tailored to you personally and moves at a calm, relaxed pace. You’ll be well prepared for the real dive that follows — which is kept refreshingly straightforward but is absolutely unforgettable.
Important: Before booking, make sure to check the provider’s health requirements. You’ll find them on the booking page under the important information section.
Ins Aquarium gehen
What can you expect? The Malta National Aquarium in San Pawl il-Baħar has 51 display tanks and terrariums with over 250 fish and reptiles. The large main tank is the real showstopper — it has a tunnel walkway where you can watch sharks gliding right overhead.
Is it worth it? The aquarium is a great indoor activity in Malta — perfect for families or on a rainy day. It’s on the smaller side but beautifully designed, a bit like walking through the sea. The attached restaurant is a nice bonus too.
Book Malta Aquarium tickets
Find out more about the weather in Malta here:
Besuche die Popeye-Filmkulisse
What can you expect? Popeye Village is the original film set from the 1980 Popeye movie. The colorful wooden houses sit on a stunning seaside bay and now function as a small amusement park, complete with props, shows, and boat tours.
Is it worth it? Definitely one of the best things to do in Malta for families and film fans alike. There’s never a dull moment here — you can spend the whole day exploring, swimming, and soaking up the sun. And the houses and bay make for seriously great photo opportunities.
