Malta Island Escape: 8-Day Road Trip

Day By Day Itinerary

1. Day 1 Welcome to Malta

   

    Arrive at Malta International Airport, pick up your rental car, and drive to Sliema. Check into your hotel. 

   Suggestion for the day: Start your trip by exploring the historic streets of Valletta

   • Visit landmarks like St. John's Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens. In the evening enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and experience the vibrant nightlife.
2. Day 2 Sliema

   

   Suggestion for the day: Discover Valletta and the Three Cities

   • Ahead of you is another day to explore Valletta. Visit the National Museum of Archaeology and other attractions in Valletta you missed on the first day. Then you can take the rest of the day exploring the Three Cities. Three Cities in Malta are some of the island’s historic towns. They’re right across from Valletta. There are three of them: Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua. Surrounded by fortress walls, these fortified cities are full of culture, history, and architecture. The Three Cities of Malta have something for everyone. Explore museums and galleries, wander around, or relax. You can easily walk between the Three Cities. Vittoriosa and Senglea are 1.2 km apart, and Senglea and Cospicua are 1.7 km apart. Walking between the cities is enjoyable, and you get a great view of the Grand Harbour. In the evening try another exquisite Maltese dinner or catch a cultural performance if available.
3. Day 3 Sliema

   

   Suggestion for the day: Marsaxlokk Market Day (A Taste of Maltese Seaside Life)

   • Today, head to Marsaxlokk. The drive from Sliema to Marsaxlokk will take you 30 minutes. Visit the local market and explore the village. Enjoy a seafood lunch and visit nearby sites like St. Peter's Pool for swimming and relaxation. On the way to Marsaxlokk, you can stop and explore the Tarxien Temples, part of the Mefaltich Temples of Malta, a UNESCO site. Another site worth visiting near Marsaxlokk is Xrobb I-Ghagin Nature Park. There are some walking paths you can hike alongside the cliffs. For the night return to Sliema.
4. Day 4 Sliema

   

   Suggestion for the day: Mdina: Echoes of the Silent City and Rabat's Underground Secrets

   • Today travel to Mdina (a 30-minute drive from Sliema) and start your exploration of the Silent City. This gorgeous fortified town is the former capital of Malta and one of the top attractions in the country. The best thing to do here is to wander around the winding alleyways, marvel at the impressive Norman and Baroque architecture, and take in the town’s medieval charm. The most notable attractions in Mdina are St. Paul’s Cathedral, Mdina Gate, Palazzo Falson, and Palazzo Vilhena. You can walk to Rabat and visit St. Paul's Catacombs and the Domvs Romana. If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, you’ll probably recognize some spots in Mdina since it was the filming location for “King’s Landing”. Round off your day with a visit to Dingli Cliffs. With a height of 250 meters, this place is the highest point in Malta and offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s also considered one of the best spots for watching the sunset in Malta so you might want to time your visit accordingly. In the evening return to Sliema and spend another night there.

   Pro Tips: 

   • As you travel from  Marsaxlokk to Mdina, you might consider making a detour and stopping to see the breathtaking Blue Grotto
5. Day 5 Sliema

   

   Suggestion for the day: Mellieha Bay Bliss (Sun, Sand, and Scenic Views)

   • On the morning of the 5th day drive to Mellieha (a 40-minute drive from Sliema). After visiting local attractions such as the Mellieha Air Raid Shelter and Red Tower. Spend time relaxing at Għadira Bay (have lunch here), Mellieha Bay, or Golden Bay, enjoying the beach and water activities. Golden Bay is an awesome place to watch the sunset. 
6. Day 6 Sliema

   

   Suggestion for the day: Northern Delights (From Popeye’s Village Fun to Tranquil Trails)

   • Today, explore Popeye Village. Popeye Village, also known as Sweethaven Village, is a purpose-built film set village that has been converted into a small attraction fun park, consisting of a collection of rustic and ramshackle wooden buildings. Continue to enjoy some of the beautiful beaches or consider a hike in the nearby natural areas. In the evening enjoy another relaxing evening meal in Mellieha or nearby villages.
7. Day 7 Sliema

   

   Suggestion for the day: Gozo and Comino Day Trip

   • Let us help you plan a boat trip to Gozo and Comino. Start with a ride to Gozo and tour around places like the Citadella and Ramla Bay. Finish your trip with beautiful Comino to enjoy the pristine waters of the Blue Lagoon. In the evening return to Valletta and have a delicious farewell dinner.
8. Day 8 Farewell Malta

   

   In the morning enjoy a leisurely breakfast and any last-minute sights or shopping. Drive to Malta International Airport, return your rental car, and depart with new memories to treasure for a lifetime.