Top 5: Daytrips in Malta

The tiny Mediterranean nation of Malta may only be 122 square miles, but the sunny island offers a host of things to do and see. Wherever you decide to base yourself (or not base yourself and instead embark on an island-wide road trip), make a point to include these spots in your itinerary.

Valletta

Visiting Malta’s capital city is a no-brainer. Restaurants, architecture and a cosmopolitan vibe reverberate through the tiny peninsula of crisscross streets. Opt for a quick cruise to distance yourself from the city and nab the perfect spot for from-afar photos.

Marsaxlokk

This tiny fishing village along Malta’s southern coast is the stuff Maltese postcards are made of. Multicolored fishing boats scatter across the harbor, parked strategically after delivering the day’s catch to local restaurants that line the waterfront. Come on a Sunday for a fresh-food market experience.

Gozo

Although not on the island of Malta, her little sister island offers just as much as her bigger sibling in terms of vistas (more greenery and farmland than Malta), history (including prehistoric ruins that date to some 1,000 years before the Egyptian pyramids) and food (specializing in potatoes, jam and fruity liqueurs).

Rabat/Mdina

Malta’s ancient capital city warrants a walk-through for a feel of what it was like to live on the island hundreds of years ago.

Hagar Qim

Marvel in the ruins of ancient temples thought to have been built in 3200 BC. Located on the west coast, a daytrip to the temples can be accented by a few serene moments looking out from the Dingli Cliffs a bit further up the coast.