The picturesque island of Malta is the perfect place to experience a magical summer holiday.
Located in the Mediterranean Sea between North Africa and Italy, you can expect a destination that’s brimming with a rich history and culture as well as exhilarating activities and attractions. Boasting more than 3,000 hours of sunshine annually, Malta is a superb choice for your summer holiday, whether that be on a fun-filled family escape, a blissful getaway as a couple or a solo adventure to tick off another place on your bucket list. This guide highlights some of the best experiences and places to visit throughout Malta. Walk the ancient, cobblestone streets, dive beneath cerulean waves to uncover exotic marine life or venture to the beach for the ultimate sun-tanning session. Being a hive of entertainment, you’ll never have a dull moment. Clubs, bars and restaurants promise to make your nights unforgettable, while attractions will fill your days with magical moments.
Malta is renowned for its spellbinding beaches. With 200 kilometres of coastline and a choice of Blue Flag-flying sandy expenses, there’s plenty of blissful spots to make your holiday to Malta magical. The summer months see temperatures rise to 30℃ and approximately 12 hours of sunlight per day, perfect for soaking up the rays, splashing in the crystal-clear waters, enjoying refreshing beverages and making precious memories. Paradise Bay is the ultimate family-friendly location as it’s close to the impressive Paradise Bay Resort and offers regular ferries to Malta's sister island, Gozo, where you’ll find the red-sand Ramla Bay. St George's Bay is nestled beside the lively Paceville nightclub district and is the ideal place to enjoy a fun-filled day followed by a lively night out. Alternatively, you could head to Golden Bay, where you can enjoy the stunning sunset and embark on an evening boat ride.
Attractions
Whatever your age, there’s something exciting to do on a Malta summer holiday. Families will feel the magic and enchantment this island offers with a visit to the Popeye Sweethaven Village set. Built for the 1980 film, you can dress up like the characters or get active on the water assault course in Anchor Bay. There’s also leisurely boat rides, dining venues and bars to make this a perfect day out. In complete contrast, a visit to the Mdina Dungeons highlights Malta’s horrible history of crime and punishment. Beware, as this interactive attraction can get quite gruesome! A lighter and brighter day out can be enjoyed at Malta National Aquarium. Located in Qawra, you can dine in the glass-domed restaurant with unique views of sharks, eels, rays and schools of colourful fish. Other options include hitting the slides and chutes at Splash & Fun Waterpark or, for a more relaxed and romantic afternoon, enjoying a wine tasting session at one of the island’s many vineyards.
Activities
Get active on your summer holiday to Malta, with the varying terrain and stunning landscapes superb for getting lost in nature. Coastal roads, country lanes and cobblestone streets are perfect for cycling excursions and horse riding, offering sublime views of the sea, rocky cliff faces and lush forests. Soar through the sky on a zipline or have a go at one of the 1,300 rock climbing and abseiling routes across Malta. Gozo Island is a hiker’s paradise, while the Mediterranean Sea is the perfect place to enjoy some aquatic fun in the sun. Scuba diving, snorkelling, jet skiing, water skiing, wakeboarding and more are popular pastimes. Those wanting to stay dry will adore a catamaran cruise, white golf lovers will feel at home on the 18-hole Marsa Golf Course.
Nightlife
No two nights are the same in magical Malta, with evening entertainment on offer to tickle everyone’s fancy. The capital, Valletta, is bursting with chic cocktail and wine bars for a swanky night on the town, while St Julian’s Bay is the place to be if you’re seeking a nightclub to dance until dawn in. Paceville is the club district that hosts the best venues, including bars and the biggest casino on the island. Up for trying your luck on the roulette table? There’s no better place than Casino Malta. For a more chilled out vibe, blend your days and nights together in the rejuvenating beach clubs like Café del Mar. An infinity pool, private beachfront, Mediterranean dishes, flowing drinks and good music will leave you entertained and pampered at the same time. Those searching for delectable dining will find an abundance of Michelin-starred establishments, including de Mondion Restaurant, Under Grain and Al Sale Restaurant.
Culture
Feel enriched on your summer holiday to Malta when you immerse yourself in the rich culture of this Mediterranean island. Discover a history that spans more than 7,000 years and is brimming with myths and legends. Valletta is the vibrant capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases medieval architecture such as the 16th-century St John’s Co-Cathedral that is home to the only signed Caravaggio in existence, Café Cordinna, the oldest coffee shop on the island, and the Grand Harbour, that has picturesque views and a charming promenade. Malta’s former capital, Mdina, was a hub of culture for over 4,000 years and is the famous backdrop for many movies and TV shows, including Troy, Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Explore the Mosta Dome, a beautifully crafted basilica situated in the heart of Malta that dates back to the 19th century, or tour the National Museum of Archeology for an insight into ancient Malta and the local people.
“If you’re looking for a magical destination for your summer holiday, then Malta is the place for you!
“Malta and its surrounding islands, are brimming with natural beauty and exciting opportunities. Daring outdoor activities like rock climbing, abseiling and ziplining will get your heart racing, while the Mediterranean Sea will reveal to you an indescribable marine world.
“For those seeking something more slow-paced, you’ll find magical moments in oodles when you investigate this island’s deep-rooted culture and heritage. Traditional dishes, mediaeval buildings and ancient cities bring history to life as you walk the cobbled streets.
“The sunshine and warm weather are a staple of Malta all year round but even more so during the summer months of June, July and August, when you can expect 12 hours of blissful sunshine and glorious temperatures. Relax poolside, wander the winding streets and take in the wondrous sights of nature.
“What more could you need?”
Travel expert recommendation
Doubletree by Hilton Malta
Relax in the stunning surroundings of Qawra when you choose the Doubletree by Hilton Malta as your luxury hotel. The famous laid back atmosphere of the Mediterranean will make this the best place to rest and feel rejuvenated, with a spa to pamper you, fitness centre to revitalise your mind and body and a beach club to soak up the sunshine in paradise. Dine from an array of cuisines in the buffet, grill restaurant or poolside bars.
Soak up the sun in this all-inclusive paradise. The Valeria Dar Atlas ticks every box and you can expect exceptional family-friendly facilities, including clubs for kids and teens, an aqua park, theme nights and an immersive entertainment programme. Relax at the end of your busy day in the spacious rooms, where you’ll find a comfy bed with plush sheets and your own private balcony for a complete chill out while looking at the garden views.
Experience Mediterranean bliss when you stay in the perfectly located Qawra Palace. Situated in the sparkling St Paul’s Bay, you’ll be awed by the splendour of the ocean views in Salina Bay while you make use of all of the luxury amenities. A perfect choice for families, you can make memories playing mini golf or getting active with some water sports, or grown-ups can relax in the peaceful adult-only rooftop swimming pool, spa and gym.
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