Orlaith Costello
June 03, 2024

Uncover a treasure trove of history along sun-kissed shores of this Mediterranean island nation.

If ambling from Michelin-starred restaurants to UNESCO World Heritage Sites before diving into azure waters in an under-the-radar location that enjoys 300 days of sunshine sounds good to you, then Malta should be on your bucket list.

Malta may be small in size but, it punches above its weight, thanks to the sheer number of excellent eateries, cultural marvels and historical sites.

In partnership with HSBC, we’ve put together this helpful starter guide to this Mediterranean gem so you can start planning your itinerary.

Uncover a treasure trove of history along sun-kissed shores of this Mediterranean island nation.

PLANNING AHEAD

Before you launch into weeks (or months) of responsibility-free fun in Europe, you’ll need to get some adult stuff out of the way, like sorting out your payment plan. With an HSBC Everyday Global Account, you can spend fee-free around the world everywhere Visa is accepted. Plus, transfer and spend in up to 10 local currencies (including EUR). Take advantage of real-time exchange rates and preload your all-in-one Visa Debit Card before you even arrive in Europe.

GETTING AROUND

For budget travellers, there is a reliable and efficient bus service — be sure to download the Tallinja app to navigate your journey. There are also shuttle bus services, taxis and water taxis (the latter is a great way to explore the Grand Harbour). The only way to get to the sister islands of Gozo or Comino is by boat. Thankfully, there are many ferry options, including a Fast Ferry to Gozo via the capital of Valletta.

LOCALS LOVE

Dawn at Marsaxlokk Markets Sunday Fish Market should definitely be on your itinerary. Arrive as early as possible to catch the sunrise return of the colourful luzzu fishing boats. It will also ensure you beat the tourist crowds and can join the locals in haggling for the freshest fish. After a morning of shopping, explore Marsaxlokk Harbour, the oldest harbour in Malta, established by the Phoenicians in the ninth century BCE, and enjoy a seafood lunch at one of the many bistros dotting the harbour.

DON’T MISS

You shouldn’t miss your shot to visit Gozo, Malta’s sister island. Only 20 minutes from the main island, Gozo boasts breathtaking natural beauty and awe-inspiring cultural and archaeological sites, such as the iconic fortified city, the Citadel. According to legend, Gozo is the home of Calypso, the nymph from Homer’s Odyssey, whose cave overlooks the beautiful Ramla Beach, renowned for its unique reddish sand.

Five of the Best

Tick these must-visit spots off your bucket list.

Eco-Friendly Stays

From luxury hotels on Malta's sister island to boutique spots in the capital, we've got your best spots here.

Restaurants and Eateries

Explore the wide range of Michelin-starred restaurants from harbourside haunts to underground eateries.

Wine Bars and Cocktail Spots

Enjoy an outdoor bevvie with views of Valletta or a cocktail in a speakeasy.

Must-Do Activities

There's so much to explore on Malta and its sister islands — here are the attractions you shouldn't skip.

Cultural Sites

Malta is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, but that's not the only amazing historical places to visit.

Museums and Galleries

Take a break from the sunshine and dive into Malta's historial and cultural scenes at these locations.

Five of the Best

Tick these must-visit spots off your bucket list.

Further Afield

If you've got a little extra time, here are five excursions outside Malta's main cities.

  • Blue Grotto

    Blue Grotto

    Join a boat tour to explore the world-class azure waters, sea caverns and arches along the southeastern coast of Malta.
  • Fomm Ir-Rih Bay

    Fomm Ir-Rih Bay

    If you love beaches that are more on the wild side, head to this secluded beach — the most isolated on Malta — and take in the surrounding views of the sea cliffs and deep blue Mediterranean Sea.
  • Crystal Lagoon, Comino

    Crystal Lagoon, Comino

    Take a day to explore the stunning sea caves and secluded sandy beaches at the Crystal Lagoon on Malta's sister island Comino.
  • Xwejni Saltpans

    Xwejni Saltpans

    Harvesting sea salt was a major trade during the Phoenician and Roman eras.
  • Ghar Dalam Cave

    Ghar Dalam Cave

    Remnants of ancient flora and fauna that longer resides on the island have been found in this ecological marvel.

Bookable Experiences

Ready to start planning? We've found five experiences you can book right now, fee free, using your HSBC Everyday Global Account Visa Debit Card.

  • Charter a Luzzu

    Charter a Luzzu

    Charter a traditional luzzu boat to cruise arond St Paul’s Bay and learn about the history of the Maltese Islands from the locals. Book now.
  • Grand Master's Palace

    Grand Master's Palace

    This architectural marvel has gone through many lives in its 450 years including as the seat of Order of the Knights of St John and the Governor’s Palace. It's currently the Office of the President of Malta. Book now.
  • Malta Postal Museum

    Malta Postal Museum

    If unique museums are your jam, take a gander at the Postal Musem with a fully functional post office and an array of postal artefacts. Book now.
  • Inquisitor's Palace

    Inquisitor's Palace

    Explore the seat of Holy Roman Inquisition power that had control over Malta for more than 224 years. Book now.
  • Lascaris War Rooms

    Lascaris War Rooms

    Valletta was one of the most bombed cities during WII. The Lascaris War Rooms once was home to were the island’s defences were coordinated. Now the underground complex is open to the public. Book now.

Plan Your Journey Around Malta

Track down the must-visit spots.

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