Malta is one of those islands that instantly capture your heart. Despite its small size—only 316 km²—you can explore a remarkable variety of landscapes, history, and culture in just a few days. I had always been fascinated by Malta’s mix of Mediterranean charm and traces of British influence, so before my trip, I spent a lot of time researching. Some friends ask why I study a place before visiting instead of discovering it spontaneously. For me, preparation adds layers to the experience: I can appreciate the food, the streets, and the culture fully when I understand the context.

Arrival and First Impressions

I flew from London Stansted to Malta’s Luqa Airport. The flight was just £70 return, which felt like a steal for the end of March, and the weather was surprisingly perfect—sunny, warm, and inviting. I stayed at The Golden Tulip Vivaldi in St Julian’s, a neighbourhood that’s lively, well-located, and offers easy access to buses and the heart of the island. My room was perfect: a mix of comfort and a little workspace where I could write, edit, and just breathe. The breakfast buffet overlooked the sea, which made mornings feel luxurious, even if I spent some nights quietly watching Disney Channel (don’t judge—it’s relaxing!).

Malta’s bus system is excellent for the main urban areas like Valletta, Sliema, and St Julian’s, but for trips to Mdina or smaller towns, buses are less frequent. I quickly learned that patience is a virtue when relying on public transport here, especially in off-season. I picked up an Explore Card at the airport—€21 for seven days of unlimited travel—which was incredibly useful and made getting around stress-free.

Day 1 – St Julian’s to Sliema Walk

After arriving and checking in, I was itching to explore. By 4 pm, I had changed into summery clothes and headed to St Julian’s Beach. The small bay is picturesque, lined with cafes and restaurants, perfect for an evening stroll. The sun was starting to set when I reached Spinola Bay, casting warm reflections on the water that felt almost cinematic.

From there, I wandered along Balluta Bay, soaking in the relaxed energy of locals enjoying the evening. Hunger eventually led me to the Surfside Beach Club, where I scored a table on the terrace with an incredible sea view. I treated myself to cashew shrimp and chicken pasta, paired with a glass of wine—pure bliss. Watching the waves while enjoying my dinner felt like the perfect introduction to Malta. After the meal, I continued toward Sliema but hopped on the bus back to the hotel; my legs were done, and I wanted to rest up for the next day.

Day 2 – Valletta and the Three Cities

Valletta, Malta’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a marvel. In just 55 hectares, you find over 320 monuments, making it one of the densest historic areas in the world. Walking its streets feels like stepping back in time. The city’s fortifications surround streets that slope up and down hills, dotted with cafes and restaurants that spill onto the sidewalks, giving locals and tourists a perfect vantage point to enjoy food, coffee, and conversation.

From St Julian’s, I took the bus to Valletta, arriving at the city’s main entrance where the Triton Fountain greets visitors with grandeur. This fountain isn’t just decorative; it sets the tone for the city’s historic yet lively atmosphere. The sheer number of people taking photos and enjoying the space reminded me that Valletta is both a tourist hotspot and a living city.

Café Cordina

Before diving into the streets, I stopped at Café Cordina, a charming establishment operating since 1837. I treated myself to a morning coffee and a cannoli ricotta cake, a Maltese specialty. It was, hands down, the best version I had on the island—the perfect balance of creamy sweetness and a slightly crisp shell.

Exploring the Streets

After my coffee, I wandered through Valletta’s streets. Every corner revealed vibrant balconies, colourful doors, and centuries-old architecture. It’s impossible to rush this city; even with a map, I found myself lingering, photographing doorways and narrow alleyways, savouring the tactile feeling of history.

Fort St Elmo, Marina, and Sea Views

Eventually, I reached Fort St Elmo and followed the waterfront path along the marina. The views of Sliema, Gzira, and Ta’ Xbiex across the water were breath-taking. Standing there, you truly appreciate Malta’s strategic location and maritime heritage.

The Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Cospicua, and Senglea

In the afternoon, I hopped on a bus to explore the Three Cities, starting with Vittoriosa (Il-Birgu). Each city has its unique charm, with cobblestone streets, historic forts, bastions, and churches. Walking from Vittoriosa to Cospicua and Senglea along the marina offered some of the most photogenic perspectives of the harbour, and it felt like stepping into a living postcard.

Lower and Upper Barrakka Gardens

Returning to Valletta, I visited the Lower Barrakka Gardens for views of the open sea, the harbour entrance, and the War Siege Memorial. After a quick pizza and wine at Cibo, I moved to the Upper Barrakka Gardens, which offers unparalleled views of the Grand Harbour. Though I had imagined a sunset picnic, I decided to take the ferry to Sliema to catch the sunset over the water, which was exactly what I hoped for—a magical end to a full day.

Day 3 – Mdina, Rabat, and Bugibba

I started Day 3 a bit later than usual, savouring a leisurely breakfast at my hotel and enjoying the sea view one more time. After much internal debate about leaving my cosy room, I finally grabbed my bag and headed to the bus stop in Paceville. My goal was Mdina, the famed Silent City, but Malta had other plans. Three buses didn’t arrive on time, leaving me waiting over an hour. While waiting, I browsed nearby souvenir shops and ended up chatting with two wonderful ladies who were visiting Malta as well. By the time we finally left, we were ready to explore together.

Mdina is unlike anywhere else on the island. Its narrow streets are lit by old-fashioned lamps, with small squares tucked around every corner. Cars are mostly banned inside the city walls, creating a serene, timeless feel. Walking through Mdina felt like stepping into the 16th century. Fans of Game of Thrones will instantly recognize familiar spots, as the city has served as a filming location for the series.

After exploring Mdina, I crossed into Rabat, its neighbouring town. A highlight here is St. Paul’s Catacombs, which offer a fascinating glimpse into Malta’s early Christian period. I stopped for a quick break at a local terrace and tried a Maltese beer paired with chips, chatting with some locals who offered tips on hidden streets and photo spots. After bidding farewell to my new friends, I wandered Rabat’s streets, enjoying the quieter side of Maltese life.

Next, I took a bus to Bugibba, hoping to reach Popeye Village for sunset. Unfortunately, buses were slow, and I didn’t make it in time. Instead, I found a perfect vantage point on the coast to watch the sun dip into the Mediterranean. I returned to St Julian’s for dinner at Pepinos, where I tried the traditional Maltese rabbit stew. It was tender, flavourful, and perfectly cooked—surprisingly similar to chicken in taste for me. To cap off the night, I indulged in traditional pastries: qassatat, pastizzi, and ricotta rings—perfect companions for a quiet walk along Spinola Bay.

Day 4 – Blue Lagoon, Comino, and Gozo (Missed Trip)

I had been looking forward to this day the most: a full-day tour to the Blue Lagoon, Comino, and Gozo via Get Your Guide. Unfortunately, heavy rain forced cancellation. While disappointed, I decided to turn the day into a relaxing “me day.”

I started with a hearty breakfast, then wandered to Bay Street Shopping Centre in St Julian’s for some retail therapy. Coffee in hand, I explored stores, tried on clothes, and treated myself to a little shopping spree. Lunch came at the Hard Rock Café, where I enjoyed Norwegian salmon with mashed potatoes and broccoli, paired with a Long Island iced tea—comfort food for the soul on a rainy day.

Afterward, I watched a movie and wandered the wet streets, stopping for souvenirs and Maltese sweets. Despite missing the Blue Lagoon, I realized that unexpected slow days are part of travel—an opportunity to recharge, reflect, and enjoy a different pace. Still, the Blue Lagoon remains at the top of my “must-return” list for Malta.

Day 5 – Pretty Bay and Marsaxlokk

Day 5 was sunny and beautiful—the perfect reward after yesterday’s rain. After breakfast, I packed my belongings but kept my luggage with me to make the most of the day before my evening flight.

I first visited Pretty Bay in Birżebbuġa, one of southern Malta’s few sandy beaches. The turquoise waters combined with colourful buildings made for a picturesque start to the day. Even though the beach is man-made, it’s popular among locals during summer months, offering a taste of authentic Maltese beach life.

From there, I took a bus to Marsaxlokk, Malta’s iconic fishing village. Every Instagram photo of vibrant Maltese fishing boats originates here. I had lunch at Tartarun, sampling seafood linguine and a glass of wine. The flavours were fresh, the service excellent, and the setting unbeatable. After lunch, I wandered along the harbour, taking hundreds of photos of the boats and soaking up the sunlight.

Before heading to the airport, I spent a few quiet moments enjoying coffee and panini at Costa Café, opening my laptop for some work. With a satisfied heart and camera full of memories, I reflected on my trip: Malta had been everything I hoped for and more.

Tips for Visiting Malta

1. Avoid peak season – Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather without the massive crowds, and prices are lower.

2. Consider renting a car – While buses cover main routes, they can be crowded and unreliable, especially in off-season.

3. Prepare for rainy days – Weather can be unpredictable; have indoor activities planned just in case.

4. Savour the food – Maltese cuisine blends Mediterranean, Italian, and British influences. Don’t miss pastizzi, rabbit stew, or fresh seafood.

5. Walk and explore – Malta is small, but many hidden gems are accessible only on foot.

6. Carry sun protection and a hat – The Mediterranean sun can be strong, even in spring.

7. Bring a good camera or smartphone – Every street, harbour, and bay is picturesque.

Final Thoughts

Malta is a gem for first-time travellers who want a mix of history, stunning views, and island vibes. It’s easy to explore in five days, especially with careful planning. While I didn’t manage to see everything—like the Blue Lagoon—I left the island with a deep appreciation for its beauty, history, and culture.

Walking its streets, sipping coffee at centuries-old cafés, and watching sunsets over Spinola Bay and Marsaxlokk, I felt immersed in a Mediterranean dream. Malta is not just a destination; it’s an experience. Whether you’re walking ancient fortified cities, exploring local villages, or relaxing by the sea, every moment has a story waiting to be discovered.

Malta Travel Guide – 5 Days Itinerary