Malta's a stunning little archipelago (group of islands) in the Med, packing a beachy punch with scorchin' sands and epic diving spots.

Good to Know for your Malta holidays 2026

🏰 Fun Fact: Calling all Game of Thrones superfans (let's cry over the finale later) - Malta was the filming location for some of the most iconic moments (see Fort Ricasoli). Time to play spot-the-scene!

🏖️ Best Beach: It's got to be Golden Bay, decked out with soft sands, clear-as-anything water and loads of snack spots for when you get peckish.

🍺 Price of a Pint: Between €2.50 - €5 (that's only around £2.15 - £4.30 - way to give your local pub a run for its money!)

Destination highlights

• A beach for every mood (think boujee, breezy or pure bliss)

• One of the Med's top diving destinations - pack your GoPro!

• Packed with history so you can memorise some facts for the next pub quiz

• Home to scenic capital, Valletta, which cameos in Game of Thrones

Where’s the best area to stay on your Malta holidays?

Malta might be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to places to stay. Here's the lowdown on the top spots to rest your head:

• Sliema & St Julian's – packed with swanky waterfront hotels, a buzzing promenade, and top-tier restaurants. Perfect for fancy-pants couples holidays or anyone looking for something lively yet stylish. Sliema is great for shopping and has easy ferry access to Valletta, while St Julian's is where the nightlife really kicks off.

• Valletta – Malta's capital is all history, culture, and charm. Think grand architecture, epic sea views, and plenty of boutique stays for all you city break fans. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and absolutely stunning after dark when the streets light up.

• Mellieħa – great for beach-lovers, this northern gem is home to Malta's biggest sandy beach, making it perfect for families and anyone who fancies a lazy beach day. Shallow waters mean it's brilliant for little ones, and you're close to Popeye Village for a fun day out.

• Bugibba & Qawra – a lively mix of budget-friendly stays, fun bars, and a fab seafront. Ideal for families, groups, and anyone who likes a bit of everything. Bugibba has the nightlife buzz around the square, while Qawra is a bit more chilled with the National Aquarium on its doorstep.

• Gozo – we think of this place as Malta's laidback little sis, perfect for nature-lovers and anyone craving a slow-paced break. Think stunning countryside, delish seafood, and proper relaxed vibes. It's just a 25-minute ferry ride from the main island.

• St Paul's Bay – with a mix of local charm and tourist-friendly fun, this is a top pick for relaxed holidays with easy access to beaches, boat trips, and seriously tasty seafood. The harbour is gorgeous and there's a cracking Sunday market.

What are the best beaches to hit up on your holidays to Malta?

Malta's coastline is as gorgeously rugged as a Hollywood actor who's aging like fine wine (we'll let you insert your own name). It's the perfect pick for beach holidays with a twist, so you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to finding the best backdrop for your seafront sunbathe. Whether you're looking for cheap as chips, one of our last-minute Malta deals, or you're thinking ahead to your 2026 holidays... we've got your beachy bucketlist covered:

• Blue Lagoon, Comino: the ultimate beach for those Insta-worthy shots, with vibrant waters so bright you'll think you're in the middle of a Photoshop ad. This place is a huge hit with the kiddos and snorkelling fans too.

• Golden Bay: true to its name, this beach is home to the toastiest golden sands, backed by a lush green hillside, because...get you a bit of coast that does both. It's well-equipped for a day out too, so it's great for some fam-friendly fun.

• Ghajn Tuffieha: much easier to lounge on than it is to pronounce, this laidback stretch is just a stone's throw from Golden Bay, but with much fewer crowds. The hike down to it (and back up afterwards) isn't for the fainthearted, but it's totally worth it for the little slice of paradise you'll find waiting for you.

• Paradise Bay: with a name this promising, you know it's gonna be good, and this place is a top pick for a sizzling day out. Tucked away near the Gozo ferry, it's a cosy little cove with clear, shallow waters ideal for young paddlers, and a backdrop that's straight off a postcard.

• Ramla Bay, Gozo: speaking of Gozo, this spot takes the cake as (allegedly) one of the best in Malta! We'll let you be the judge, but if the rich red sands, raw beauty and lengthy shore are anything to go by, we think we know where we stand.

• St. Peter's Pool: a moment for the rock pools, please. This natural swimming pool is bursting with charm, housing clear blue waters perfect for a swim if you fancy something a bit different.

• Mellieha Bay: Malta's biggest beach had to get a mention, swooping down to shallow waters perfect for the kiddos, and packed with amenities that'll have you set for a full day out.

What are the top hotels to stay at on your Malta holidays?

Looking for somewhere to stay in Malta? We've got you! From all-inclusive bangers to beachfront beauts, check out these top spots:

• db Seabank Resort and Spa: for a stay where you're treated like royalty, the views are as delish as the food, there's a spa to pamper yourself silly, and the all-inclusive concept is off the charts. 'Nough said.

• DoubleTree by Hilton Malta: perched right on the edge of the Med, this place is all about the mega views, with an infinity pool to soak it all up, a cute poolside bar, and an on-site casino in case you're feeling lucky.

• Hotel Phoenicia: deemed as one of Malta's swankiest stays, this place has gardens that look like they've been plucked straight from a fairytale book, food options for every mood, a mini golf course - and, it's just a quick journey from Valletta's historic centre.

• AX The Palace: if you can't resist a bit of luxe living, then this is the place for you. It's all about the chic vibes, from the rooftop pool to the plush rooms and jaw-dropping city views... not to mention the spa facilities for the ultimate pamper sesh.

• Riviera Spa Resort - Adults Only: if you're all about the "no kids allowed" vibes, then this is your place. It's got spa and fitness facilities on-site, delish dining spots from buffet to a la carte and three bars for ultimate tipples and chills.

• Luna Holiday Complex: a budget-friendly option for those no-fuss stay essentials. We're talking cosy rooms with all the basics, friendly staff, a rooftop pool, Sky Lounge and a handy location that's just a hop, skip and a flip-flop away from some of Malta's best beaches (see above).

• Barcelo Fortina Malta - Adults Only: for those of you craving some kid-free downtime, we feel you. This adults-only paradise is decked out with a dreamy pool area at its own Beach Club, a restaurant serving delish Maltese classics, a seafront location, and an on-site spa for your dose of zen.

Malta holidays 2026 travel guide

⭐ Off the radar: The non-tourist side of Malta ⭐

One of the perks of exploring off the beaten track is that it means your holidays to Malta come without having to wait in a queue or duck beneath a selfie stick. If you want to swap the tourist traps for authentic vibes, here is where to go.

• Ta’ Ħaġrat Temples - the quieter, older sibling of Ġgantija. Get your culture fix here without fighting through the crowds.

• Marsaxlokk Fishing Village - visit on a non-market day to see the colourful Luzzu boats bobbing in the harbour without the hustle and bustle.

• Dingli Cliffs - escape the busy viewpoints and head here for sunset. It’s just you, the cliffs, and an endless view of the Med.

• Play Boċċi - think like a local and try your hand at Malta’s national sport. There’s a club in nearly every village, so no excuses!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Things to do in Malta with kids

If you think Malta is just for history buffs, think again. It's the perfect family holiday spot, with everything from waterparks to sea life and all the beaches you could ever need. This island is a playground for little adventurers, and it's easy to see why...

• Splash and Fun Park - the ultimate summer hit in Bahari-Caghaq. Packed with slides, a wicked wave pool, and lazy rivers, it’s a guaranteed winner for a full day of fun.

• Malta National Aquarium - a brain boost for all ages. Spot Nemo, marvel at the sharks, and check out the reptile zone when you need a break from the sun.

• Popeye Village - the original film set for the 1980 movie is now a funky theme park. It’s quirky, colourful, and totally unique to Malta.

❤️ Things to do in Malta for couples

Malta is basically built for romance. From silent cities to candlelit dinners, here is how to earn some serious brownie points with your other half on your next couples' holiday...

• Mdina (The Silent City) - no cars, no chaos, just cobbled streets and fairytale vibes. Stroll past St. Paul’s Cathedral and feel like you’re in a historic romance novel.

• Cooking Classes - go full #couplegoals and whip up a Maltese feast at Diar il-Bniet. Nothing says romance like extra garlic (maybe bring gum?).

• Sunset Strolls - the coastlines here are made for hand-holding. Find a secluded spot near the Dingli Cliffs and watch the sun dip below the horizon.

🥳 Things to do in Malta for young adults

Off with your bestie or the whole gang? Malta is the perfect choice if you're in charge of booking your next group holiday. Whether you want hiking credentials or a wild night out, the island delivers, and we've got the suggestions to back it up...

• Paceville Nightlife - located in St Julian’s, this is where the party pops off. From house beats to rooftop cocktails, early nights just don’t exist here.

• Hiking Trails - break up the sunbathing with a trek along the Dingli Cliffs or explore the rugged trails of Gozo for views that will make your followers jealous.

• Comino Day Trips - hop on a boat to the Blue Lagoon. It’s the ultimate spot for swimming, snorkelling, and getting that perfect "I'm on a boat" Insta pic.

We've got loads of deals on last-minute jollies, which means you can go from bed to beach as early as next week and get LOADS more splash for your cash. Bosh.

💰 Things to do in Malta for FREE

Living your best holiday life without draining the bank account? We’re all about keeping things cheap and cheerful at On the Beach, so here's how to do Malta on a shoestring:

• Snorkelling - the water is crystal clear and totally free to explore. Head to Paradise Bay to spot marine life without spending a penny.

• Gozo Day Trip - okay, the ferry costs a few Euros, but exploring the lush countryside and quiet villages of Malta’s little sibling is a budget-friendly adventure.

• Beach Hopping - from Golden Bay to Ghajn Tuffieha, the best spots on the island are free. Just bring a towel and snacks.

🎄 Things to do in Malta at Christmas

Sick of the soggy UK December? Swap the mince pies for mojitos and enjoy a festive season with a side of winter-sun... It's what Santa would want for you, honest.

• Valletta Lights - The capital glows up with twinkly lights and festive markets. It’s a real-life fairy tale, but with palm trees instead of slush.

• Popeye’s Village - Goes full North Pole mode in December. Think Santa’s toy factory, live shows, and more festive cheer than you can shake a candy cane at.

• Al Fresco Dining - Forget the stuffy dining room; enjoy your Christmas dinner with a sea view and sunglasses. Now that is a result.

Getting around on your holidays to Malta

• 🚌 Buses - The Tallinja Card is your golden ticket when it comes to getting around on holidays to Malta. It's your way to get unlimited travel, but if that's a bit too much commitment, you can pay contactless for each bus ride - and it's super cheap. Not to mention the blasting air con and the routes that cover just about everywhere - even some of the top beaches. Don't mock the bus life.

• 🚖 Taxis and Bolt - If you’re not feeling waiting at bus stops, taxis and ride-hailing apps like 'Bolt' are all over Malta. They're super convenient for short trips when you're in a pickle, especially if you're heading back from a late dinner in Valletta or a boujee night out in St Julian’s. Just keep an eye on surge pricing after hours – it can be a bit steep!

• 🚤 Ferries - Fancy a commute with a side of MEGA views? The ferry is your new best friend. There's one that zips between Valletta, Sliema and the Three Cities for a super quick and scenic way to get around. For longer day trips to Gozo or Comino, the ferries from Ċirkewwa have you covered. Our top tip? Grab a seat on the top deck for that Insta-worthy coastline view.

💬 Local lingo 💬

Who says you can't sound like a total local on your Malta holidays? Drop these phrases into convo and you might just get the best pastizzi rec going (trust us, you’ll want to know).

• Hello - Merħba

• Hi - Bonġu

• Bye - Ċaw

• How are you? - Kif inti?

• Thank you - Grazzi

• You're welcome - Ta’ xejn

• How much is it? - Kemm jiswa?

• Where is the bus stop? - Fejn hi l-waqfa tal-linja?

🚤 Day Trips from Malta

Malta's compact size and brilliant location make it a proper hub for day-tripping. Whether you want to island-hop, explore sister islands, or even pop over to another country, there's loads to see without straying too far from your sunbed.

• 🏝️ Gozo – Malta's quieter sibling is just a 25-minute ferry from Ċirkewwa. Explore the Citadel in Victoria, hunt for the famous red sand at Ramla Bay, or visit the ancient Ġgantija Temples (older than the pyramids!). The ferry runs every 45 minutes and costs around €5 return – bargain.

• 💎 Comino & the Blue Lagoon – the tiny island between Malta and Gozo is home to the famous Blue Lagoon, with water so bright it looks photoshopped. Boat trips run daily from Sliema, Bugibba, and Ċirkewwa. Get there early in summer to bag a good spot – it gets busy!

• 🏛️ The Three Cities – Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua are just a quick ferry hop across the Grand Harbour from Valletta. Proper old-school Malta vibes with cobbled streets, maritime museums, and way fewer tourists than the capital.

• 🇮🇹 Sicily – fancy a day in Italy? The Virtu Ferries catamaran zips from Valletta to Pozzallo in Sicily in about 90 minutes. From there you can explore Ragusa, Modica, or the baroque beauty of Noto. It's around €130 return and runs a few times a week – check schedules in advance.

• 🎬 Popeye Village – not far from Mellieħa, this quirky film set from the 1980 Robin Williams movie is now a fun theme park. Great for families, with boat rides, splash zones, and more photo ops than you can shake a spinach can at.

• 🌊 Blue Grotto – just south of Valletta, this stunning sea cave glows electric blue when the sun hits it right. Small boats take you through the caves from Wied iż-Żurrieq harbour. Best visited in the morning when the light is mint.