I spent 8 days in Malta and stayed at Marco Polo Hostel in St. Julian’s. Even though I travelled solo, I was hardly ever alone. I met so many amazing people, went on spontaneous adventures, explored beautiful places, and created memories I’ll never forget.

And Malta itself? Wow.

The honey-coloured buildings, crystal-clear blue water, endless sunshine, and laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere completely stole my heart. Whether you’re looking for beautiful beaches, nightlife, history, boat trips, or a destination where it’s easy to meet people, Malta has it all.

So if you’re planning your own trip, this Malta travel guide contains everything I wish I knew before visiting, including where to stay, how to get around, the best places to visit, beaches, boat trips, nightlife, food, and my personal tips.

If you’re still deciding whether Malta is actually worth the trip, I also wrote an honest breakdown of whether Malta is worth visiting after spending 8 days on the island.

About Malta

Malta is a small Mediterranean island nation located south of Sicily. Despite its size, it offers a surprising variety of experiences, from historic cities and beautiful beaches to vibrant nightlife and island-hopping adventures.

A few things to know before you visit Malta:

• The official languages are Maltese and English, so communication is very easy.
• Malta uses the Euro (€).
• The plugs are Type G, the same as in the UK, so you’ll need an adapter if you’re coming from mainland Europe.
• Cars drive on the left-hand side of the road.
• Malta enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year, making it a great destination almost year-round.
• Tap water is safe to drink but doesn’t taste great, so many locals and travellers buy bottled water.

Where to Stay in Malta

One of the biggest decisions you’ll make when visiting Malta is choosing where to stay. Each area offers a completely different experience, so the best area for you really depends on what kind of trip you’re looking for.

Valletta

Valletta is Malta’s beautiful capital city and a dream for anyone who loves architecture, history, and charming streets.

The city is incredibly picturesque and makes a great base for sightseeing. It’s also well connected to the rest of the island by bus and ferry.

However, Valletta is generally much quieter at night. Many restaurants, bars, and shops close relatively early, and the city becomes noticeably calmer after midnight.

Stay in Valletta if:

• You prefer a relaxed atmosphere.
• You love history and culture.
• You want easy access to sightseeing.

Sliema

Sliema is one of Malta’s most popular areas for travellers.

You’ll find plenty of restaurants, cafés, shops, and a beautiful waterfront promenade. It’s livelier than Valletta but less intense than St. Julian’s.

Stay in Sliema if:

• You want a good balance between sightseeing and nightlife.
• You enjoy shopping and waterfront walks.
• You prefer a more local atmosphere.

St. Julian’s

If Malta never sleeps, St. Julian’s is the reason why.

This is the island’s nightlife hub, filled with bars, clubs, restaurants, beach clubs, and young travellers from all over the world.

The crowd can be quite young, especially around Paceville, where you’ll find many 18–20-year-olds, but there are also plenty of travellers in their mid-20s and older.

Stay in St. Julian’s if:

• You enjoy nightlife.
• You want to meet other travellers.
• You like having plenty of restaurants and activities nearby.

During my trip, these were by far the two hostels I heard the most good things about. Both are located in St. Julian’s, Malta’s social hub, making them perfect for solo travellers looking to meet people while staying close to beaches, restaurants, and nightlife.

Marco Polo Hostel

This is where I stayed, and honestly, I couldn’t have chosen better.

The hostel is incredibly social without feeling forced. There’s a beautiful rooftop bar that becomes the perfect sunset spot every evening, and the hostel regularly organises activities and events for guests.

I personally didn’t participate in many of the organised activities because I quickly met great people and spent most of my time exploring with them.

The dorms were comfortable and included privacy curtains, which I always appreciate. The kitchen was small but clean and well maintained.

Overall, it’s one of my favourite hostels I’ve stayed in.

Book here: Marco Polo Hostel

Follow The Sun Boutique Hostel

Several friends I met during my trip stayed here and absolutely loved it.

The hostel has a beautiful swimming pool, breakfast is included, and the overall atmosphere feels a little more upscale than a typical backpacker hostel.

It’s generally more expensive than Marco Polo Hostel, but many travellers consider it worth the extra cost.

Book Here: Follow The Sun Boutique Hostel

How to Get Around Malta

Tallinja Public Transport

Malta’s public bus system is called Tallinja and is the most budget-friendly way to get around the island.

A 12-journey card costs €19, with each journey including unlimited transfers within a 2-hour period.

If you’re only planning to use the bus occasionally, there’s no need to buy a travel card. You can simply tap your contactless bank card or phone when boarding. A standard daytime ticket costs €2.50 and is also valid for 2 hours, including transfers.

The bus network works well for popular destinations such as Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian’s, although reaching some beaches and more remote locations can take considerably longer.

I took the bus from Malta Airport to St. Julian’s when I arrived and paid just €2.50, making it one of the cheapest airport transfers I’ve ever had. The journey was easy, straightforward, and much more comfortable than I expected.

Overall, public transport in Malta is affordable and convenient, especially if you’re staying in one of the main tourist areas.

Bolt

Bolt is by far the taxi app I used most during my trip.

Taxi prices in Malta are surprisingly affordable, especially when sharing rides with other travellers. Once you start meeting people, taking a Bolt often becomes both cheaper and more convenient than using public transport.

Uber

Uber also operates in Malta.

Since it entered the market more recently, prices can occasionally be lower than Bolt thanks to promotions, so it’s worth checking both apps before booking a ride.

If you want a more detailed breakdown of Malta’s buses, ferries, taxis and car rental options, I’ve written a full guide on how to get around Malta.

Malta Travel Budget

Compared to many Western European destinations, Malta is relatively affordable, especially if you travel outside the peak summer months.

Here’s a rough idea of what I spent:

• Accommodation: hostel dorm in St. Julian’s, around €25 per night in May
• Main dishes at restaurants: around €15–20
• Coffee: €2–4
• Cocktails: €7–12
• Club drinks: around €5 for a vodka mixer
• Taxi rides: Bolt/Uber were very affordable; a 40-minute ride was around €20–25
• Club entry: many clubs offer free entry depending on the night and event
• Special events: events like Café del Mar were around €15 entry, sometimes including a drink

Overall, Malta is not a “super cheap” destination, but it offers good value for money considering the quality of food, nightlife, and how easy it is to get around.

Best Things to Do in Malta

From historic cities and colourful fishing villages to beautiful beaches, natural swimming spots, boat trips, and nightlife, there are plenty of things to do in Malta.

If you want to see all my recommendations in one place, check out my guide to the best things to do in Malta.

Valletta – Malta’s Capital

Valletta is the capital of Malta and one of the most beautiful historic cities in Europe. Think golden limestone streets, sea views at every corner, and a very walkable city packed with culture.

St. Lucia Street

St. Lucia Street is one of the main pedestrian streets in Valletta and a lively spot for shopping, cafés, and quick bites.

It connects several key parts of the city and is often busy during the day with both locals and tourists. You’ll find small shops, bakeries, and casual restaurants here, making it a good stop while exploring Valletta on foot.

It’s not a major sightseeing attraction, but more a practical and atmospheric street to experience daily life in the capital.

Upper Barrakka Gardens

One of the best viewpoints in Valletta overlooking the Grand Harbour.

It’s a must-visit for panoramic views of the Three Cities and passing ships.

Lower Barrakka Gardens

A quieter alternative to the Upper Gardens, still offering beautiful sea views and a more peaceful atmosphere.

Valletta Waterfront

The Valletta Waterfront is a beautifully restored promenade along the Grand Harbour, known for its colourful historic warehouses and sea views.

Today, it’s filled with restaurants, bars, and cruise ship activity, making it a great place for a relaxed walk along the water.

It’s especially nice in the evening when the buildings are lit up and the atmosphere becomes more lively with people dining outdoors.

Grand Harbour

The Grand Harbour is one of the most impressive natural harbours in Europe and a defining feature of Valletta.

From the Upper Barrakka Gardens, you get the best panoramic view over the harbour, including the Three Cities, cruise ships, and traditional boats crossing the water.

It’s both a historic and active port, giving Valletta its unique mix of old-world charm and modern maritime life.

Saluting Battery

Every day at 12:00 and 16:00, you can watch the traditional cannon firing from the harbour below the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

It’s a small but iconic Valletta experience.

St. John’s Co-Cathedral

One of the most famous churches in Malta.

Entry requires a fee, as many churches in Malta do, or a voluntary donation. Inside, you’ll find incredibly detailed Baroque interiors and artworks that make it worth the visit.

Boat Trip to the Three Cities

From Valletta’s harbour, you can take a small traditional boat across the water to the Three Cities – Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua – for around €2.

It’s a super authentic and scenic experience, but boats may not operate when it’s too windy.

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The Three Cities

The Three Cities sit directly across the Grand Harbour from Valletta and are often overlooked, which is exactly what makes them special.

They feel quieter, more local, and a lot less touristy, while still being full of history, charm, and amazing harbour views.

Vittoriosa (Birgu)

Vittoriosa is the most atmospheric of the three and the best one to start with.

Things to do include:

• Walk through the narrow, historic streets and waterfront
• Visit Birgu Waterfront Marina for yachts, cafés, and restaurants
• Explore the Inquisitor’s Palace and Fort St. Angelo, both rich in history
• Stop for a coffee or lunch along the harbour

This area really shows Malta’s medieval side and feels like stepping back in time.

Senglea (Isla)

Senglea is small but has one of the most iconic viewpoints in Malta.

• Walk to the Gardjola Gardens
• Enjoy panoramic views over the Grand Harbour and Valletta skyline
• Spot the famous watchtower with the carved “eye” and “ear” symbols

It’s especially beautiful at sunset when the light hits the harbour and Valletta turns golden.

Cospicua (Bormla)

Cospicua is the most local and least touristy of the Three Cities.

• Stroll through quiet residential streets
• See the impressive Cottonera Lines fortifications
• Experience a more authentic, lived-in side of Malta

It’s less about specific attractions and more about the atmosphere.

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Sliema

Sliema is one of Malta’s most modern and developed coastal areas, known for its long promenade, sea views, and relaxed but lively atmosphere.

It’s less party-focused than St. Julian’s, but still very social and full of cafés, restaurants, and beach clubs.

Seaside & Swimming Spots

Sliema is one of the best places in Malta for easy sea access and casual swimming:

• Exiles Beach – popular local swimming spot with rocky access and clear water
• Fond Għadir Beach – natural rock pools and ladder access into the sea
• Long promenade for walking, running, or sunset views along the coast

It’s very common to just bring a towel and jump into the water anywhere along the rocky coastline.

Shopping & City Life

• The Point Shopping Mall – the largest shopping mall in Malta with international brands and cafés
• Plenty of smaller shops, supermarkets, and casual eateries throughout the area

Views of Valletta

One of the highlights of Sliema is the direct view across the harbour to Valletta.

Walking along the promenade, especially around sunset, gives some of the best skyline views on the island.

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Mdina & Rabat

Mdina, also known as the Silent City, is the former capital of Malta and one of the most magical places on the island.

It’s a fortified medieval city with narrow, golden stone streets, no cars inside the walls, and an atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time. It has even been used as a filming location for major productions like Game of Thrones.

You’ll only need around 2–3 hours to explore it at a relaxed pace, including viewpoints and a stop for food or drinks.

Best Things to Do in Mdina

Bastion Square

One of the best viewpoints in Mdina, offering panoramic views over the island.

It’s especially beautiful at sunset or late afternoon when the light turns golden.

St. Paul’s Cathedral

A stunning Baroque cathedral in the heart of Mdina, known for its detailed interior and religious artworks.

It’s one of the main cultural landmarks inside the city.

Palazzo Falson

A well-preserved medieval townhouse museum giving insight into aristocratic life in old Mdina.

Perfect if you’re interested in history and architecture.

Fontanella Tea Garden

Fontanella Tea Garden is one of the most popular stops in Mdina, and for good reason.

It’s famous for its chocolate cake and panoramic terrace views over Malta. It can get busy during the day, but it’s absolutely worth it for a break inside the city walls.

Tip: Go in the morning if you want it quieter. It’s also a great spot for breakfast starting around 10:00.

Rabat

Just outside Mdina’s walls you’ll find Rabat, a more local and lived-in town that’s within walking distance.

Things to do in Rabat include:

• St. Paul’s Catacombs – an underground network of ancient burial chambers, very interesting to explore especially on a hot or rainy day
• Small local streets and cafés with a more authentic Maltese feel
• A less touristy atmosphere compared to Mdina

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Marsaxlokk

Marsaxlokk is a traditional fishing village in the south of Malta, famous for its colourful luzzu boats and relaxed seaside atmosphere.

Throughout the week, there’s a small market along the waterfront, but on Sundays it becomes a large and very busy market, attracting both locals and tourists.

While it’s lively and interesting, it can feel quite crowded.

Personally, it’s much nicer to visit on a weekday, when you can fully enjoy the harbour, see the fishing boats up close, and experience a more authentic and peaceful vibe.

St. Peter’s Pool

If you’re already in Marsaxlokk, it’s worth walking or taking a short taxi ride to St. Peter’s Pool, one of Malta’s most famous natural swimming spots.

• Natural rock pool with crystal-clear water
• Popular for swimming and cliff jumping
• Surrounded by rugged, wild coastline
• Very scenic but can get busy in summer

It’s also that well-known TikTok spot where the man with his dog always jumps into the water, which you’ll definitely recognise if you’re chronically online like me.

It’s one of the best spots in the area if you want a mix of adventure and swimming in a natural setting.ng.

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St. Julian’s (San Ġiljan)

St. Julian’s is one of the liveliest areas in Malta, stretching along the coast from quiet bays to the busy nightlife district of Paceville.

It’s a place where you can go from a peaceful seaside walk to a full night out in just a few minutes.

The area is basically split into two vibes: calm coastal promenades with restaurants and views, and a much more chaotic nightlife core inland.

Spinola Bay

Spinola Bay is the heart of St. Julian’s and one of the most beautiful spots in the area.

• Traditional luzzu fishing boats in the harbour
• Waterfront restaurants and cafés
• Great place for dinner or a sunset walk
• Very atmospheric in the evening when the lights reflect on the water

It’s the perfect starting point for a relaxed evening before going out or continuing your walk.

Balluta Bay

Balluta Bay sits between St. Julian’s and Sliema and feels a bit more local and relaxed.

• Small urban beach with a rocky coastline
• Beautiful view of the neo-Gothic Carmelite church (Knisja tal-Karmnu)
• Popular walking and swimming spot for locals
• Part of the main coastal promenade

It’s especially nice early morning or at sunset when the promenade gets busier.

Coastal Walk: Spinola Bay to Balluta Bay

One of the best things to do in St. Julian’s is simply walking the seafront promenade between Spinola Bay and Balluta Bay.

• Lined with cafés, restaurants, and bars
• Great sunset walk with sea views
• Always people around, especially in the evening
• Connects naturally into Sliema if you keep walking

At night, this whole stretch comes alive, not in a club way, but in a very social, laid-back Mediterranean vibe. vibe.

Knisja tal-Karmnu

The Carmelite Church is the landmark overlooking Balluta Bay.

• Beautiful neo-Gothic architecture
• One of the most photographed churches in Malta
• Stunning view from the promenade, especially at night

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Golden Bay & Għajn Tuffieħa

Malta is mostly known for rocky beaches, so if you want a real sandy beach day, Golden Bay and Għajn Tuffieħa are the perfect change of scenery.

The beaches are beautiful, with golden sand, clear water, and surrounding cliffs that give you amazing viewpoints over the coastline.

It can get quite busy, so it’s best to come either in the morning or later in the late afternoon for sunset.

A quick tip: most beaches in Malta are rocky, so watershoes can be really useful if you plan to swim in other spots around the island.

Sunset & Dining at Golden Bay

Golden Bay is especially popular in the evening for sunset.

• You can have dinner right by the beach
• Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season

Watching the sunset here is one of the nicest experiences in this area.

Golden Bay Horse Riding

If you want something a bit different, you can go horse riding along the cliffs near Golden Bay.

• Around €30 per person
• Relaxed walking pace along scenic coastal paths
• Horses are well cared for
• You can walk there directly from the beach area
• Booking in advance by phone or email is required

It’s a really peaceful way to see the coastline from a different perspective.

Walking & Viewpoints

The whole area around Golden Bay and Għajn Tuffieħa is great for short hikes and scenic walks.

• Cliff trails with panoramic sea views
• Less crowded viewpoints just a short walk away
• Perfect for sunset walks or quiet moments away from the beach crowd

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Blue Grotto

The Blue Grotto is one of Malta’s most famous natural attractions, known for its stunning sea caves and incredibly bright blue water.

It’s best visited in the morning, when the sunlight hits the water at the right angle and the blue colours inside the caves are at their most intense.

You can buy a boat ticket for around €10 to take a short tour through the Blue Grotto and the surrounding smaller sea caves.

The boat ride is the main experience here and gives you a unique view inside the rock formations.

Keep in mind that boats do not operate in strong wind or rough sea conditions, so it’s always weather dependent.

Overall, it’s a quick but very beautiful stop, especially if you combine it with nearby sights like the temples or the south coast viewpoints.

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Comino

Comino is a tiny, almost uninhabited island between Malta and Gozo, best known for its crystal-clear waters and relaxed, nature-focused vibe.

Most people visit on a day trip, and you can easily explore the main highlights in a few hours.

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is the most famous spot in Malta.

• Shallow, turquoise water perfect for swimming
• White sandy seabed that makes the water look unreal
• Easy access from most boat tours
• Can get very crowded, especially midday

Tip: Go early or later in the afternoon for a quieter experience.

Wondering how much time you actually need for Malta? My guide on how many days to spend in Malta breaks down different trip lengths, including where I’d fit Comino and Gozo.

Crystal Lagoon

A slightly more adventurous and often less crowded stop:

• Deeper, clearer water
• Great for snorkelling
• Popular for cliff jumping, depending on conditions
• Usually only accessible via boat tours

Many boat trips combine Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon in one itinerary.

Walk Around Comino

Comino is very small, so you can actually explore it on foot.

• Quiet walking trails across the island
• Hidden rocky coves away from the crowds
• Beautiful views of Malta and Gozo
• Very peaceful once you move away from the main lagoon

It feels almost untouched compared to the rest of Malta.

Santa Maria Tower

A historic watchtower located on the island:

• Built in the 17th century
• Used for defence and spotting ships
• Adds a bit of history to your visit
• Nice viewpoint over the sea and surrounding island

Tip: Consider a Private Boat

If you’re travelling with a bigger group, consider renting a private boat. It’s honestly worth the money and not even that expensive when you split the cost.

Find some friends and organise it together. The skipper can take you to all the beautiful spots, including the Blue Lagoon, but also hidden coves and quieter swimming areas.

You’re completely free to go wherever you want, which makes it so worth it if you want to escape the crowds and do your own thing.goon, but also hidden coves and quieter swimming areas. You’re completely free to go wherever you want, which makes it so worth it if you want to escape the crowds and do your own thing.

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Gozo Day Trip: Hidden Nature & Things to Do

Gozo is Malta’s greener, quieter sister island and is known for dramatic landscapes, crystal-clear bays, cliffs, and a much more relaxed atmosphere compared to mainland Malta.

It’s the perfect escape if you want nature, views, and a slower pace.

How to Get to Gozo

There are a few ways to visit Gozo, depending on how much time and freedom you want.

Boat Tours: Gozo + Comino Combo

A popular option is booking a full-day boat tour that includes Gozo, Comino, and Blue Lagoon stops.

• Departs from places like Sliema
• Often includes swimming stops at hidden coves
• You also pass beautiful coastline views of Malta, Gozo, and Comino
• We booked with Luzzu Cruises and had a really good experience

This is the easiest option if you want a stress-free day and want to see multiple spots in one trip.

Check out Gozo Tours here: GetYourGuide Gozo Tours

Ferry: Explore Gozo Yourself

You can also explore Gozo on your own:

• Fast ferry from Valletta to Gozo: around €14 return, weather dependent
• Regular ferry from Ċirkewwa: cheaper and runs frequently
• You can also take a ferry from Ċirkewwa to Comino: around €10 return, approximate

This option gives you more freedom to explore at your own pace.

Private Boat

You can also rent a private boat, with or without a skipper, which allows you to:

• Stop at hidden beaches and caves
• Avoid crowds
• Create your own itinerary

Perfect if you’re travelling in a group.

Best Things to Do in Gozo

Ramla Bay

Gozo’s most famous beach with a unique landscape.

• Reddish-golden sand
• Wide bay surrounded by hills
• Great for swimming and relaxing
• Small cafés nearby for a break

Nearby you’ll also find small cafés like Ramla Café and viewpoints like Tal-Mixta Cave.

Tal-Mixta Cave

One of the most iconic viewpoints in Gozo.

• Overlooks Ramla Bay’s red sand beach
• Perfect sunrise or sunset spot
• Short walk/hike to reach the cave

Xlendi

A small coastal village with a relaxed vibe.

• Beautiful bay surrounded by cliffs
• Great restaurants along the water
• Nice for sunset dinners or a swim

Marsalforn

Another coastal town, slightly more local and laid-back.

• Seaside promenade
• Restaurants and cafés
• Good base for exploring northern Gozo

Wied il-Għasri

A hidden gem and narrow sea inlet.

• Dramatic cliffs and turquoise water
• Great for swimming if conditions are calm
• One of the most scenic natural spots on the island

Wied il-Mielaħ

A natural rock arch often seen as Gozo’s “mini Azure Window”.

• Impressive limestone formation
• Much quieter than tourist hotspots
• Great coastal views

Salt Pans (Xwejni)

One of Gozo’s most unique landscapes.

• Traditional salt harvesting pools along the coast
• Still used by locals today
• You can often buy locally harvested sea salt nearby

Victoria & Citadel

The island’s capital and historic centre.

• Hilltop fortress with panoramic views
• Small streets, shops, and cafés
• Best place to understand Gozo’s history

Ta’ Pinu Basilica

A large and impressive church surrounded by open countryside.

• Important pilgrimage site
• Beautiful architecture
• Peaceful and scenic surroundings

Tip: Gozo is best explored in a full day or overnight stay. If you only do a day trip, try to combine a few key highlights, Ramla Bay, the Citadel, Wied il-Għasri, and Xlendi, to avoid rushing too much.

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Malta Food & Drinks Guide

Before diving into the different areas, there are a few classic Maltese things you should try.

I’ve also put together a separate guide on where to eat in Malta if you’re looking for more specific restaurant, café and local food recommendations.

Local Food You Should Try

• Rabbit (Fenkata) – Malta’s traditional dish, often slow-cooked and served in local restaurants
• Pastizzi – flaky pastry filled with ricotta or peas, usually only €0.50–€0.70 and sold everywhere
• Pizza slices / street food – often around €1.50, perfect for a cheap lunch on the go

You’ll find pastizzi shops all over the island, and they’re the ultimate budget travel snack.

Valletta Food & Drinks

Valletta has a mix of stylish restaurants, local cafés, and great cocktail spots hidden in its narrow streets.

Restaurants

• San Paolo Naufrago – Italian restaurant with a great atmosphere and music. Very popular, so book a few days in advance. Located in a beautiful street and known for its vibe and setting
• Casa Sotto – relaxed Italian spot with good food
• Sesame Dim Sum – modern Chinese restaurant, great for something different

Cafés

• Babel – trendy café/bar with a nice atmosphere
• Café Society – stylish café, good for coffee and people watching
• Carmens Bar – casual drinks and laid-back vibe

Drinks & Happy Hour

Between 15:00 and 20:00, Valletta has lots of happy hour deals.

A good area for cocktails is the street between Cheeky Monkey and The Capitol, but honestly, most places are solid.

Valletta is more about sitting on a terrace, enjoying the atmosphere, and hopping from bar to bar.

Sliema Food & Drinks

Sliema has a more modern, beachy feel with lots of international food options and waterfront restaurants.

Restaurants & Cafés

• Surfside – beachfront spot with cocktails, food, and happy hour deals
• Il-Fortizza – great seaside location with food and drinks
• Opa! – Greek restaurant with a fun and lively vibe
• Café Sicilia – casual and good for coffee or quick bites
• Peppi’s – slightly more upscale, also known for happy hour

St. Julian’s Food & Brunch

St. Julian’s is the main nightlife area of Malta, but it also has some of the best brunch and waterfront cafés on the island.

Two Buoys

Two Buoys is one of the most popular brunch spots in St. Julian’s.

• Located in the Spinola Bay area, right by the water
• Known for its Australian-style brunch menu, including pancakes, avo toast, eggs, and more
• Great mix of food, drinks, and a relaxed seaside vibe
• Perfect spot for a slow morning or brunch with a view

Bars

Cuba – popular bar with happy hour and a young crowd.

Three Cities – Waterfront Dining

The Three Cities are perfect for a more relaxed, scenic meal by the water.

• MYKONOS by YIAMAS – Greek restaurant with a beautiful waterfront setting, perfect for lunch or sunset dinner

Golden Bay – Beach Dining

Golden Bay is one of the best sunset food spots in Malta.

• Agliolio – Italian/Mediterranean restaurant located directly at Golden Bay inside the Radisson Blu Resort area. It overlooks the beach and is known for pizza, pasta, seafood, and a very relaxed family-friendly vibe.
• Singita Miracle Beach – stylish beach restaurant with sunset views, slightly more expensive but worth it for the location. Great for dinner while watching the sun go down over the sea.

Historical & Cultural Sites in Palermo

Malta Nightlife Guide

Malta’s nightlife is very concentrated in one area: St. Julian’s, especially around Paceville. Outside of this zone, things are generally much quieter.

Paceville – St. Julian’s Nightlife District

Paceville is the main party hub of Malta, filled with clubs, bars, and late-night fast food spots all within walking distance.

• Loads of different clubs and cafés packed into one area
• Very easy to go bar-hopping without needing transport
• I personally went a lot to Footloose, which had a fun crowd and quite a few Dutch people

A few things to know:

• In summer, some clubs may start charging entry, depending on the night/event
• The crowd is very young, often 18–early 20s, especially during peak season
• It can feel a bit like a “first-time party destination” vibe, which isn’t for everyone

Personally, it wasn’t always my scene, but it’s super convenient if you’re staying in St. Julian’s. My hostel, Marco Polo, was literally a 5-minute walk away, which makes it very easy to just go out spontaneously.

Gianpula Village

Gianpula Village is one of Malta’s biggest clubbing venues, located outside the main city areas.

• Open-air parties and indoor club spaces
• Different events depending on the night, including techno, house, commercial, and more
• You definitely need a taxi to get there
• Worth checking the lineup in advance so you know what kind of night it will be

It’s more of a “big event” nightlife experience compared to Paceville’s bar scene.

Party Boats

A really fun alternative to clubs is a party boat.

• A friend of mine went on the Lazy Pirate Boat and had a great time
• Music, drinks, swimming stops, and a very social crowd
• Easy way to meet people during the day or at sunset

Café del Mar

Café del Mar is a beach club known for its pool parties and sunset events.

• Chill beach club during the day
• Turns into a party venue depending on the event
• Beautiful sunset location!!
• Events vary a lot, so check the schedule before going

Solo Travel in Malta: Meeting People & Making Connections

One of the best things about Malta is how easy it is to meet people.

• Hostels are very social, especially in St. Julian’s
• People are constantly going out, exploring, or joining tours
• You’ll meet people in your hostel, on nights out, or even just walking around

I actually met a lot of people through the Hostelworld app, which made it super easy to connect before even arriving.

Travelling alone? I also wrote about whether Malta is safe for solo female travellers, including my personal experience travelling around the island alone.

Malta Travel Tips

A few final things I learned during my 8 days in Malta:

• Visit Comino early or later in the afternoon if you want to avoid some of the Blue Lagoon crowds.
• Stay in St. Julian’s if you want to be social. Everything is close by.
• Use Bolt/Uber for cheap shared taxis. They’re often cheaper than expected, especially when splitting the ride.
• Many nights out start late, so don’t rush dinner.
• Book popular events and boat parties in advance during summer.
• Stay in a hostel if you’re travelling solo. It’s one of the easiest ways to meet people quickly.
• Bring watershoes if you plan to swim at Malta’s many rocky swimming spots.
• Consider a private boat if you’re travelling with a group. Splitting the cost can make it surprisingly affordable.
• Visit Marsaxlokk on a weekday if you want a quieter experience than the busy Sunday market.
• Go to the Blue Grotto in the morning for the best light inside the caves.

Is Malta Worth Visiting?

Absolutely, and what made Malta so special for me was honestly how social it is.

Even though I travelled solo, I was rarely alone. There was always someone to go explore with, grab food with, or go out with.

It’s one of those destinations where everything just feels easy: meeting people, getting around, and filling your days with spontaneous plans.

At the same time, Malta isn’t only about nightlife and hostels. You can spend your days exploring historic cities like Valletta and Mdina, swimming in crystal-clear water, taking boat trips around Comino and Gozo, discovering quiet coastal villages, or simply sitting somewhere by the sea with a drink.

For me, that combination is what makes Malta such an easy destination to love. You can make a plan, completely change it five minutes later, meet someone new, and somehow end up having one of the best days of your trip.

If you’re travelling solo and want a destination where it’s genuinely easy to meet people while still having beaches, history, nature, food, nightlife and beautiful Mediterranean scenery, Malta is definitely one to consider.

If you want my full honest answer to that question, read Is Malta Worth Visiting? My Honest Opinion After 8 Days.

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Planning Your Malta Trip?

Planning a trip to Malta can feel overwhelming, with so many places to explore, beaches to visit and things to organise.

That’s why I created my complete Malta Travel Guide, covering where to stay, how to get around, the best places to visit, food, nightlife, beaches and practical travel tips.

→ START HERE: Malta Travel Guide

Related Posts

• Is Malta Worth Visiting? My Honest Opinion After 8 Days
• Where to Stay in Malta: Best Areas, Hotels & Hostels
• How to Get Around Malta: Buses, Bolt, Ferries & Car Rental
• How Many Days in Malta Do You Need? My Ideal Itinerary
• Things to Do in Malta: Best Places, Beaches & Activities
• Where to Eat in Malta: Best Restaurants, Cafés & Local Food
• Is Malta Safe for Solo Female Travellers? My Honest Experience
• Malta vs Sicily: Which Should You Visit? My Honest Comparison

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Frequently Asked Questions About Malta

Is Malta worth visiting?

Yes! Malta is a great destination if you want a combination of beautiful beaches, historic cities, crystal-clear water, nightlife, boat trips and Mediterranean atmosphere. It is also particularly easy to meet other travellers, making it a great option for solo travellers.

How many days do you need in Malta?

I spent 8 days in Malta, which gave me enough time to explore Valletta, St. Julian’s, Sliema, Mdina, Marsaxlokk, Comino, Gozo and several beaches. For a first trip, around 5–8 days is a good amount of time depending on how much of the island you want to see.

Where is the best area to stay in Malta?

It depends on your travel style. St. Julian’s is a great choice for solo travellers and anyone who wants nightlife and a social atmosphere. Valletta is better for history and sightseeing, while Sliema offers a good balance between restaurants, shopping, waterfront walks and nightlife.

Is Malta good for solo travellers?

Yes. Malta is particularly social, especially around St. Julian’s. Staying in a hostel makes it easy to meet other travellers, and you can also connect with people through activities, boat trips and the Hostelworld app.

Is Malta expensive?

Malta is not one of Europe’s cheapest destinations, but I found it relatively affordable compared with many other Western European destinations. Hostel accommodation, public transport and shared Bolt or Uber rides can help keep your costs down.

What are the best places to visit in Malta?

Some of the highlights include Valletta, Mdina, the Three Cities, Marsaxlokk, St. Julian’s, Golden Bay, Għajn Tuffieħa, the Blue Grotto and Comino. If you have more time, a day trip to Gozo is also worth adding to your Malta itinerary.

Can you visit Gozo and Comino from Malta?

Yes. Both islands are easy to visit from mainland Malta. You can take ferries, join organised boat tours or rent a private boat. Many full-day boat tours combine Gozo, Comino and the Blue Lagoon.

What is the best way to get around Malta?

Public buses are the cheapest option and connect most of the popular tourist areas. For shorter or more remote journeys, Bolt and Uber are convenient alternatives, especially when you split the cost with other travellers.

Is Malta good for nightlife?

Yes, especially if you stay around St. Julian’s and Paceville. This is Malta’s main nightlife district, with lots of bars and clubs within walking distance. There are also larger events at places such as Gianpula Village and Café del Mar.

What should you not miss in Malta?

If it’s your first trip, I wouldn’t miss Valletta, Mdina, Comino’s Blue Lagoon, the Three Cities, St. Julian’s, a beach day at Golden Bay or Għajn Tuffieħa, and a day trip to Gozo. A boat trip is also a great way to see Malta’s coastline from the water.