10 activities in Malta to schedule for a successful stay

The Maltese archipelago has become a very popular destination thanks to its coastline, Mediterranean climate, and turquoise waters. A sunny island setting, perfect for all water activities. Boat excursions are, unsurprisingly, the must-do activity in Malta if you're visiting the archipelago.

Among all the available cruises, exploring the Blue Lagoon by boat is the top activity for visitors to Malta. Many cruise options to Comino are available. Whether by catamaran or multi-service boat, there is something for everyone. Private boat rental options with a skipper are also available to explore this unique location.

Note that these cruises are highly popular among travelers, so it is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season.

It is impossible to visit Malta without discovering its capital, Valletta, the historical and cultural heart of the country. A unique site listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding universal value.

Valletta is a city steeped in history and rich in an epic past. A fortified city dotted with historical monuments such as the St. John's Co-Cathedral, St. Paul's Church, and the Manoel Theatre.

While it's possible to wander around the capital on your own, it is highly recommended to take part in at least one guided tour of Valletta. A cultural activity accessible to all, available in multiple languages, offering explanations and fascinating anecdotes about the city and its history.

A guided tour with a local guide will allow you to learn about the adventures of Villiers de l’Isle-Adam, Jean de La Valette, and the extraordinary escapades of the painter Caravaggio.

Gozo, Malta’s secondary island, is wilder and more authentic than the highly urbanized main island. A more preserved island, yet less accessible by public transport and scattered with rocky dirt paths. An ideal playground for adventurous and immersive excursions.

For travelers looking for an activity with a touch of adventure, it is possible to explore Gozo by taking part in a 4x4 tour (in a modified Jeep), a Tuk-Tuk excursion for something more original, or a Quad or Buggy ride for the more daring.

These are unique ways to explore Gozo, both fun and unconventional. Keep in mind that this excursion typically takes a full day, regardless of the exploration method chosen, including the boat crossing.

Visiting the Blue Grotto is one of Malta's must-do excursions. The only way to fully enjoy this exceptional geological site is to explore the caves on a small traditional boat called a Luzzu. This fun activity, suitable for all ages, allows you to closely observe the caves and limestone cliffs.

To embark on a trip to the caves, you’ll need to go to the small hamlet of Wied iż-Żurrieq, where you’ll find a small port with many picturesque boats ready to take you to the Blue Grotto. Booking a ticket in advance is not necessary, as boats run frequently. Tickets are sold on-site and only in cash, costing around €10 per person.

As an island nation surrounded by the Mediterranean, Malta naturally offers many thrilling water activities. Għadira Bay (Mellieħa Bay) has the widest range of available equipment and activities, but you can also enjoy water sports from Saint Julian’s or Golden Bay.

Water sports options in Malta are varied. Among the most thrilling activities, you’ll find high-speed "Speedboats" (the Formula 1 of the sea), inflatable towable tubes (banana or donut-shaped), jet ski rentals, and the unique Flyboard experience. There is something for everyone.

For those looking to experience heights with a thrilling activity, we highly recommend parasailing. It’s a unique way to discover the archipelago from above, soaring between 50 to 70 meters over Malta’s coastline. A breathtaking experience with stunning views.

Popeye Village is Malta’s main theme park. It is the ultimate family-friendly activity in Malta, a must-visit attraction if you're traveling with children.

As the name suggests, the park is built around the world of the fictional character Popeye. It features various activities (shows, cinema, museum) and attractions (mini-golf, playground), as well as inflatable water structures and an obstacle course during the summer season.

A popular amusement park with themes and facilities designed for both children and adults. A visit to Popeye Village is an ideal activity for families with kids on vacation in Malta. It is recommended to purchase Popeye Village tickets in advance, especially during summer. Tickets can be bought online or directly on-site.

The Maltese archipelago’s coastline is perfect for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. These fun activities are accessible to everyone and allow you to discover hidden spots (caves, arches, secluded beaches) that are often inaccessible by land and free from tourist crowds.

Many rental shops are available near the beaches, where you can rent equipment to explore on your own. However, to discover unique locations, such as the Mellieħa coastline or the caves of Comino and Gozo, we recommend joining a guided excursion with a local expert, ensuring a safe and enriching experience.

Malta and Gozo are highly popular diving spots in the Mediterranean, especially for their numerous underwater wrecks: HMS Maori, Um El Faroud, MV Karwela, etc. Wrecks, underwater arches, and aquatic caves are scattered throughout the archipelago. In addition, the rich and diverse marine life (octopuses, barracudas, moray eels, seahorses) makes Malta an ideal place to try or practice scuba diving.

Diving in Malta is an activity suitable for both beginners and experienced divers. For first-timers, opt for a scuba diving initiation. Malta has many natural pools, such as Qawra Point Beach, providing a safe environment for an introductory experience.

For more experienced divers looking to venture into deeper waters and possibly dive beyond 40 meters to explore wrecks like the former ferry "Imperial Eagle", we recommend reaching out to well-established diving clubs. Dive On Malta and Dive Base Malta are two reputable diving centers in Malta with a solid reputation.

Exploring Malta by hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus may not be the most unique activity, but it remains a very convenient way to discover the island’s main attractions.

Several routes are available, covering the north and south of the island and stopping at must-see sites such as Valletta, the Three Cities, the Blue Grotto, Sliema, Spinola, Buġibba, and more. The advantage of this type of circuit is that it only stops at places of interest, allowing for a quick and efficient visit to Malta's key locations.

Sightseeing bus tours often include audio commentary, providing interesting facts and insights that travelers might otherwise miss. Keep in mind that, despite the island's small size, travel times can sometimes be long. To maximize your visit and explore as many places as possible, it is recommended to start early in the morning.

A visit to the Malta Aquarium, located in Qawra (San Pawl il-Baħar), is a perfect activity to plan in case of bad weather or extreme heat.

Although modest in size, the National Aquarium of Malta houses nearly 150 species spread across six themed zones. Among them, iconic marine species such as sharks, rays, moray eels, and turtles can be seen in carefully designed tanks. It is a great opportunity to discover Maltese and international marine life in an educational setting, making it ideal for a family outing or an educational excursion.

Tickets for the Malta Aquarium can be purchased online or directly on-site, with prices set at €16.90 per adult and €10.90 per child.