7 Days in Malta: My Perfect Week Itinerary (+ What I Wish I’d Known)
Hey there, Malta dreamers! Planning 7 days in Malta? You’re in for such a treat. I still get goosebumps thinking about my first morning in Valletta – sipping coffee while watching the sunrise paint those honey-colored limestone buildings golden. But here’s what no generic travel guide will tell you: Malta is tiny (seriously, you can drive across it in 45 minutes), but it packs more history, culture, and jaw-dropping scenery into those small islands than places ten times its size.
After spending 7 days in Malta hopping between ancient temples, crystal-clear lagoons, and medieval cities, I’ve crafted the perfect 7-day Malta itinerary that’ll help you see the best of these incredible islands without feeling rushed. Trust me, you’ll want to bookmark this one!
Here’s What’s Inside
7 Days in Malta: My Perfect Week Itinerary (+ What I Wish I’d Known)
Hey there, Malta dreamers! Planning 7 days in Malta? You’re in for such a treat. I still get goosebumps thinking about my first morning in Valletta – sipping coffee while watching the sunrise paint those honey-colored limestone buildings golden. But here’s what no generic travel guide will tell you: Malta is tiny (seriously, you can drive across it in 45 minutes), but it packs more history, culture, and jaw-dropping scenery into those small islands than places ten times its size.
After spending 7 days in Malta hopping between ancient temples, crystal-clear lagoons, and medieval cities, I’ve crafted the perfect 7-day Malta itinerary that’ll help you see the best of these incredible islands without feeling rushed. Trust me, you’ll want to bookmark this one!
Why 7 Days in Malta is the Perfect Trip Length
Malta might be small, but 7 days in Malta gives you the perfect balance of exploration and relaxation. You’ll have time for spontaneous discoveries while hitting all the must-see spots without feeling rushed. This 7 days in Malta itinerary covers both main islands and ensures you experience the best of Maltese culture, history, and natural beauty.
Before We Dive In: Essential Malta Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit Malta: May-June and September-October are absolute perfection – warm weather, fewer crowds, and those Instagram-worthy golden hour shots without fighting for space.
Getting Around: Rent a car if you can handle narrow streets and aggressive drivers (it’s an adventure!). Otherwise, the bus system works but requires patience and a good sense of humor. Check current schedules on the official Malta Public Transport website.
Where to Stay: Valletta for history lovers, St. Julian’s for nightlife, or Mdina for medieval charm. I’ll give you specific recommendations for each day!
Day 1: Valletta – Europe’s Smallest Capital with the Biggest Personality
Start your 7 days in Malta adventure in Valletta, and prepare to have your mind blown. This UNESCO World Heritage city is basically an open-air museum built by knights 500 years ago.
Morning: Upper Barrakka Gardens & Grand Harbour
Begin at the Upper Barrakka Gardens – the views over Grand Harbour are absolutely spectacular, especially with your morning coffee. Pro tip: Time it for the 12 PM cannon firing ceremony. It’s touristy but honestly? Still gives me chills every time.
Afternoon: St. John’s Co-Cathedral
This is where you’ll understand why Malta punches above its weight culturally. The interior is so ornate it’s almost overwhelming – we’re talking floor-to-ceiling baroque gold everywhere. Don’t miss Caravaggio’s “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist.” It’s the only painting Caravaggio ever signed, and seeing it in person is incredible.
Evening: Strait Street & Traditional Maltese Dinner
Wander down Strait Street (locals call it “The Gut” – charming, right?). Grab dinner at Nenu the Artisan Baker for the most authentic Maltese ftira you’ll ever taste. Their rabbit stew is legendary if you’re feeling adventurous!
Where to Stay: Hotel Phoenicia for luxury, or The Gilded Otter for boutique charm.
Day 2: Three Cities – Malta’s Best-Kept Secret
Most tourists skip the Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua), which is honestly their loss. These fortified cities across the harbor from Valletta offer all the history with half the crowds.
Morning: Vittoriosa (Birgu)
Take the ferry across Grand Harbour – it’s cheap, scenic, and saves you from parking headaches. Explore Fort St. Angelo and the Maritime Museum. The views back to Valletta from here are absolutely stunning.
Afternoon: Senglea & the Gardjola Gardens
The Gardjola Gardens offer some of the best harbor views in Malta. Seriously, every photo looks like a postcard. Spend time just wandering the narrow streets – every corner reveals another Instagram-worthy shot.
Evening: Sunset at the Waterfront
Find a seaside restaurant in Vittoriosa for dinner. The sunset views over the harbor while dining on fresh seafood? Chef’s kiss
Day 3: Mdina & Rabat – Step Back in Time
Time to visit Malta’s former capital, also known as the “Silent City.” If Game of Thrones vibes are your thing, you’ll be obsessed.
Morning: Explore the Silent City
Park outside the city walls (trust me on this) and enter through the main gate. Mdina feels like stepping into a medieval time machine. The narrow streets, ancient palaces, and that peaceful atmosphere – it’s magical. Don’t miss:
- St. Paul’s Cathedral
- The views from the city walls
- Palazzo Falson (great for history buffs)
Afternoon: Rabat & St. Paul’s Catacombs
Just outside Mdina, Rabat houses some fascinating Christian catacombs dating back to the 3rd century. It’s eerie but incredibly cool – like an underground city of the dead.
Evening: Traditional Village Experience
Have dinner at De Mondion in Mdina for a splurge, or head to a local village restaurant for authentic Maltese home cooking. The lampuki (dolphinfish) is incredible if it’s in season!
Where to Stay: The Xara Palace in Mdina if you want to wake up inside a medieval city.
Day 4: Comino & the Blue Lagoon – Paradise Found
Here’s where your 7 days in Malta gets tropical. Comino Island and the Blue Lagoon are absolutely stunning, but timing is everything.
Early Morning: Beat the Crowds
Take the first ferry from Cirkewwa (around 9 AM). You can book ferry tickets in advance through Comino Ferries. The Blue Lagoon with turquoise water and white sand beaches looks like the Maldives, but it gets PACKED by 11 AM. Those early morning photos with the lagoon to yourself? Priceless.
Activities:
- Swimming in crystal-clear waters
- Snorkeling (the underwater visibility is incredible)
- Hiking to Santa Marija Bay for quieter beaches
- Exploring the island’s rugged landscape
Pro Tips:
- Bring your own food and water – everything on Comino is overpriced
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen (protect those pristine waters!)
- Consider staying overnight at the Comino Hotel if your budget allows
Day 5: Blue Grotto & Southern Malta
Today’s all about Malta’s dramatic southern coast and that famous blue cave everyone talks about.
Morning: Blue Grotto
The boat ride into this sea cave is absolutely spectacular – the water glows electric blue thanks to underwater caverns. Weather dependent though, so have a backup plan. Best time is mid-morning when the light hits just right.
Afternoon: Hagar Qim & Mnajdra Temples
These megalithic temples are older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. Mind-blowing when you think about it. The audio guide is worth it – these aren’t just old stones, they’re incredible feats of ancient engineering.
Evening: Marsaxlokk Fishing Village
End your day in this colorful fishing village. The traditional luzzu boats with painted eyes are Instagram gold, and the seafood restaurants serve the freshest fish on the island. Sunday’s fish market is legendary if you’re here at the right time.
Day 6: Gozo Island – Malta’s Peaceful Sister
Take a day to explore Gozo – it’s like Malta’s laid-back cousin. The ferry from Cirkewwa takes 25 minutes and runs regularly.
Morning: Victoria (Rabat) & the Citadel
Gozo’s capital is much more relaxed than Malta’s cities. The Citadel offers panoramic views across the island and has fascinating museums inside the fortified walls.
Afternoon: Choose Your Adventure
- Beach lovers: Ramla Bay with its distinctive red sand
- History buffs: Ggantija Temples (even older than Malta’s!)
- Nature enthusiasts: Dwejra Bay and the dramatic coastal walks
Evening: Gozitan Cuisine
Gozo’s food scene is incredible. Try the ftira with Gozitan cheese and tomatoes, or splurge on dinner at Ta’ Rikardu for traditional dishes in a cave setting.
Getting Around Gozo: Rent a car or take the hop-on-hop-off bus. The island’s small but public transport is limited.
Day 7: Beach Day & Final Malta Moments
Your final day of this 7 days in Malta adventure should be relaxing and memorable!
Morning: Golden Bay or Mellieha Bay
Both offer beautiful sandy beaches (rare in Malta!) and are perfect for a final swim. Golden Bay is smaller and more intimate, while Mellieha Bay has more facilities.
Afternoon: Last-Minute Shopping & Sightseeing
- Pick up Maltese honey, wine, or handmade lace as souvenirs
- Revisit your favorite spot from the week
- Take those final sunset photos
Evening: Farewell Dinner
Celebrate your week with a special dinner. My recommendations:
- Valletta: Rubino for traditional Maltese cuisine
- St. Julian’s: Zest for modern Mediterranean
- Mdina: Bacchus for romantic ambiance
Making the Most of Your 7 Days in Malta
This 7 days in Malta itinerary is designed to give you the perfect mix of must-see attractions and hidden gems. The key to a successful week is balancing planned activities with spontaneous discoveries – some of my best Malta memories happened when I wandered off the beaten path!
7 Days in Malta Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
Budget: €400-600 (hostels, local food, public transport) Mid-range: €600-1000 (3-star hotels, mix of restaurants, some tours) Luxury: €1000+ (4-5 star hotels, fine dining, private tours)
Transportation Tips:
- Car rental: €20-40/day – gives you flexibility but parking is challenging
- Public buses: €1.50-2 per ride, day passes available
- Taxis/Uber: Available but expensive for longer distances
What to Pack for 7 Days in Malta:
- Comfortable walking shoes (those medieval streets are uneven!)
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Light layers (it can be windy)
- Waterproof phone case for boat trips
- Portable charger for all those photos
Cultural Tips:
- Maltese and English are both official languages
- Tipping 10% at restaurants is standard
- Many shops close for siesta (1-4 PM)
- Sunday morning markets are worth experiencing
For more packing tips for Mediterranean destinations, see my essential travel packing guide.
The Verdict: Is 7 Days in Malta Enough?
Honestly? 7 days in Malta gives you a fantastic taste of these incredible islands, but you’ll definitely be planning your return trip by day six. These islands have a way of getting under your skin – the combination of incredible history, stunning scenery, warm locals, and that perfect Mediterranean vibe is absolutely addictive.
Malta surprised me in the best possible way. I expected pretty beaches and ancient temples, but I found so much more – from the warmth of Maltese hospitality to those magical golden hour moments in Valletta’s quiet streets. It’s the kind of destination that feels both exotic and comfortable, ancient and modern.
After following this 7 days in Malta itinerary, you’ll have experienced the perfect blend of history, beaches, and culture these incredible islands offer.
Ready to Book Your Malta Adventure?
If this itinerary has you dreaming of honey-colored limestone and crystal-clear lagoons, it’s time to make it happen! Malta is incredibly well-connected to Europe, making it perfect for 7 days in Malta exploring these amazing islands
Ready to find your flights? Use my flight search tool on the homepage to compare prices and find the best deals to Malta. I’ve helped thousands of travelers save money on their flights – let me help you too!.
Have you been to Malta before, or will this be your first visit? I’d love to hear about your travel plans or answer any questions about planning your perfect Malta week in the comments below!
This 7 days in Malta itinerary will give you memories to last a lifetime!
