6 unforgettable things to do in Malta, from Valletta’s historic streets to hidden Mediterranean bays

Malta is the kind of place that reveals itself in layers, with something for every kind of traveller. One day you could be tracing medieval streets between golden walls, the next you’re swimming in clear Mediterranean water or lingering over fresh seafood beside a harbour older than most European capitals. History, nature, beauty and modernity: compact yet remarkably varied, the islands reward the curious.

Whether you’re dreaming of Malta’s sun-soaked coastline or historic cities, booking with Jet2holidays, the UK’s number one tour operator, makes turning those plans into reality refreshingly straightforward. Every Jet2holiday is designed with convenience in mind. That means 22kg baggage and 10kg hand luggage per person included, along with return transfers from the airport to your hotel*.

You can secure your holiday with a low £60pp deposit** and spread the cost with PayPal Pay in 3†, giving you the freedom to book with confidence. There’s a wide choice of 2 to 5-star hotels across popular destinations, while families can make the most of Free Child Places‡ – helping ensure those memory-making getaways deliver strong value too. And because Jet2holidays offers any-duration breaks, you can slip away for exactly as long as suits you.

What’s more, with the Jet2holidays Spring Sale, you can save £100pp off all holidays, meaning you can make a saving of £400 for families of four, and £200 for couples – making your Malta getaway even better value. Because nothing beats saving on sunshine.

Now you’re ready to book, here are six ways to help you experience Malta at its most memorable…

1. Explore Valletta, Malta’s UNESCO-listed capital

Few cities pack as much drama into such a small footprint as Valletta. Built by the Knights of St. John after the Great Siege of 1565 and full of baroque beauty, the capital rises from the Mediterranean in terraces of honey-coloured limestone, its streets laid out in an elegant grid that feels made for wandering.

At the heart of the city sits St John’s Co-Cathedral, which is austere outside but dazzling within. Marble floors, ornate chapels and dramatic artworks create one of Europe’s most striking church interiors. Close by, the Upper Barrakka Gardens provide a perfect pause point, with wide views over the Grand Harbour and the historic waterfront beyond.

Malta’s UNESCO credentials run deeper still, from the subterranean chambers of Hal Saflieni Hypogeum to the prehistoric stone complexes of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra Temples. Civilisation has been thriving here long before the classical world, each step is filled with history.

2. Visit Malta’s most characterful towns, from the Three Cities to Mdina

Across the harbour from Valletta lie The Three Cities. Quieter but equally atmospheric, where narrow lanes wind past pretty balconies and beautiful marinas. Here, the formidable Fort St Angelo stands out in the water as if to signal the harbour it once defended.

Along the northeast coastline, the promenade linking Sliema and St Julian’s offers sea views, boat trips and café terraces: benches offer moments to take in the views. Further along the coast, resorts including St Paul’s Bay, Qawra and Buġibba provide some easygoing bases beside the water. Then there is Mdina, Malta’s ancient capital, which offers a golden limestone glow. Its shops sell glassware, silver filigree jewellery, and traditional Maltese crafts.

3. Experience Malta’s food scene, from street food to Michelin-starred dining

Malta’s cuisine reflects its history, with diverse ingredients shaped by trade and colonisation. Look for local food markets where seasonal ingredients are sold with local produce, including its famous thyme honey.

The island boasts an impressive Michelin presence. The standout is ION Harbour, whose two Michelin stars are matched by a spectacular Grand Harbour setting. Other acclaimed restaurants include De Mondion, Noni, Under Grain, Fernandõ Gastrotheque, Le GV and Rosamì. But the island’s everyday flavours are just as rewarding: warm hobż (a crusty sourdough loaf) filled with tuna and tomatoes, delicate pastizzi (flaky savoury pastries), and seafood caught hours earlier – wash it all down with tasty wine from local vineyards

4. Discover Malta’s best beaches and scenic bays

Malta’s coastline feels constantly in motion. As one stretch will hum with cafés and boats, the next reveals a quiet curve of sand framed by hills and ancient buildings.

In the north, Mellieħa Bay forms one of the island’s broadest natural bays, while nearby Paradise Bay and Armier Bay offer more intimate, quieter spots. On the western shoreline, the amber sands of Golden Bay and neighbouring Għajn Tuffieħa sit between open countryside and sea. Closer to the cities, St George’s Bay and St Paul’s Bay combine swimming areas with boat trips and waterfront dining.

5. Hike Malta’s wild coastline and nature trails

Malta’s natural landscapes are sometimes overlooked, yet they are among its most rewarding discoveries. Lace up hiking trainers for clifftop paths near Dingli Cliffs reveal sweeping Mediterranean views, while trails through Il-Majjistral Nature and History Park and Pembroke Garigue Heritage Park weave through rugged coastal terrain.

Breathtaking views, fresh air and paths sculpted over centuries: Spring hikes are particularly colourful, with wild thyme, fennel and bright Mediterranean flowers carpeting the countryside. Explore cycling routes, coastal horse riding excursions and countryside walks that link villages, vineyards and ancient sites across the island.

6. Try coastal experiences, from diving and snorkelling to kayaking

Malta’s crystal-clear waters make it one of Europe’s leading diving destinations, with underwater caves, reefs and historic wrecks scattered around the islands. If you feel the need for an active day then snorkelling, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are all popular, while catamaran trips and harbour cruises are available if you’d like a slower way to explore the coastline.

To find out more about Malta and book your getaway visit Jet2holidays

*Unless otherwise stated.

**On bookings made ten weeks or more before departure. Full payment required by balance due date.

†Spread the cost over three interest-free payments. Available when booked online, for holidays under £2,000, departing within ten weeks.

‡One free child place per two paying passengers. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply, please see jet2holidays.com/promotions#FCP2025 for further details.

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