Steph Parker is a travel addict, who has visited over 90 countries solo. She’s the founder of Big World Small Pockets, which won Best British Travel Blog at the British Travel Awards. Steph's committed to helping adventurers get the best from their travel budgets.  

Here’s her ultimate travel itinerary for getting the most out of four days in Malta... 

Small but mighty, Malta doesn't hold back. It’s an archipelago made up of five islands (its namesake being the largest). The Mediterranean gem packs in centuries of history, seriously gorgeous coastlines, and character-filled old towns, all tied together by laidback island life.  

Honestly, you'll be amazed by just how much you can see and do in Malta, even on a quick trip. 

The perfect four days in Malta itinerary: What to see and do 

If you love a destination that offers an incredible array of culture, heritage, sunshine, swimming, great food, fab wine and affordability, Malta ticks every single box! 

Despite being one of the smallest countries in the world, Malta is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, some epic diving spots and even ancient temples older than the pyramids. And best of all, they’re all easy to get to. 

So if you're looking for a holiday that boasts a tonne of variety, but avoids long travel times, visiting Malta is a must. 

Why visit Malta?  

For starters, it’s a Mediterranean destination. Strategically located near Sicily, it’s no surprise Malta has been occupied relentlessly over the centuries – from the Romans and the Phoenicians to the Knights of St John and the British. 

This has given rise to a fascinating tapestry of history, architecture and language, as well as culture and cuisine. All of which blend European and Arabic influences in an utterly unique way. 

Malta’s spot in the southern Med also means the island is well-plotted for year-round sunshine. Think the ideal weather to enjoy the world-class ancient walled city of Valletta, the glittering blue seas of Gozo and unique vineyards and restaurants scattered across the country. 

Four days in Malta 

With day trips, top foodie recommendations and hidden gems built in, here’s the best Malta four-day itinerary for your next trip… 

Day 1: Discovering Valletta and the Three Cities 

Kick off your time in Malta with a visit to Valletta – the country’s tiny but mighty capital. UNESCO-listed Valletta is a walled city packed with history, and the best way to experience it is to just walk around!  

Spend some time exploring its narrow alleys, passing golden-hued buildings and colourful balconies, snapping photos to your heart’s content. 

When it comes to attractions, make sure you don’t miss… 

St. John’s Co-Cathedral: Built by the Knights of St. John back in the 1500s, this beautiful church features stunning golden baroque details, marble tombs and insane ceiling frescoes. Don’t miss the famous Caravaggio painting, The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist. 

Upper Barrakka Gardens: With a prime location high above the Grand Harbour, this is the perfect place to get Instagram-worthy shots of the famous Three Cities. Time your visit for noon to catch the Saluting Battery cannon firing. 

The Grandmaster’s Palace: Once home to the powerful Grand Masters of the Knights of St. John, the Grandmaster’s Palace is now open to the public. It’s full of ornate rooms, fresco-covered ceilings and a massive armoury. 

Casa Rocca Piccola: A 16th-century noble home that was one of the first in the capital, this stunning building remains inhabited by descendants of the original family. If you’re lucky, like me, you might even get a private tour with them! 
 
For lunch, grab yourself some traditional Maltese ftira (a pizza-like bread usually filled with Maltese tomato paste and other delicacies) from a local artisan bakery.  
 
After lunch, consider hopping on a boat tour of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities beyond – Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua. 
 
Take a traditional dgħajsa boat across the harbour to soak in the beauty of the fortifications and capture photos of the colourful balconies and quiet alleys along the way. 
 
Once disembarked, amble through the narrow streets lined with honey-coloured stone and centuries of maritime history. You can uncover the Inquisitor’s Palace in Vittoriosa, see the Grand Harbour views from Senglea’s Gardjola Gardens, and stroll along the peaceful waterfront of Cospicua as you go.  
 
Head back for the evening in Valletta – sundowners on the famous 33 steps should not be missed! 

Day 2: Beach bliss and the silent streets of Mdina 

On day two, spend your morning relaxing at one of Malta’s best beaches – a great idea after a big day of sightseeing! Golden Bay and Ghajn Tuffieha are two of the prettiest beaches in Malta, and both are accessible by bus or Bolt. 

With sandy strips (a rarity in cliff-populated Malta) and calm, shallow swimming conditions, even the views from the cliffs above here are worth a visit. 

Ghajn Tuffieha also boasts the fab beachside eatery, Singita Restaurant – a great spot to enjoy lunch by the sea. 

Later in the day, when the heat's cooled off, make your way to Mdina, Malta’s ancient walled city and former capital. Nicknamed the ‘Silent City’, Mdina is a calming place filled with buildings constructed from globigerina limestone, a soft, golden-hued stone local to the island.  

Potter around the car-free streets and enjoy panoramic views from the city walls in the late afternoon, when it’s quieter and the best colours are on full display. 

Day 3: A scenic day trip to Gozo 

On day three, bring on Malta’s gorgeous sister island, Gozo. To get there, you can either catch the fast ferry from Valletta, or the regular ferry from Ċirkewwa in the north of Malta. 

Once you get to Gozo, you then have two options for getting around: public buses or renting a car. Public transport is reliable enough and budget-friendly, but renting a car gives you maximum freedom. If you'd prefer a guided experience, you can book a 4x4 or tuk-tuk tour. They’re great value and can show you a lot in a short time, not to mention being able to ride a unique mode of transport! 

Start your day at Victoria, also known as Rabat. This is Gozo’s capital, where you can climb the Cittadella for 360° island views.  

Other unmissable Gozo highlights include: 

Dwejra Bay: This place is an absolute stunner, with breathtaking cliffs and deep-blue waters. The bay is also home to the now-collapsed Azure Window and the nearby Blue Hole. The latter’s a natural rock formation that drops dramatically into the sea and a favourite for divers, thanks to its clear water. 

Ramla Bay: Ramla Bay is Gozo’s most famous beach, thanks to its golden-red sand and turquoise water. Surrounded by countryside and sheltered by dunes, it’s made for a laidback swim, a bit of sunbathing or just chilling with a pastizzi from the nearby snack bar. There’s even the legendary Tal-Mixta Cave overlooking the bay, offering some epic views from up top. 

Ġgantija Temples: These ancient megalithic temples are even older than the pyramids of Egypt! UNESCO-listed and built over 5,500 years ago, they’re some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world, and walking through them feels like stepping straight into prehistoric times. 
 
For food, head to Il-Kartell restaurant – a coastal spot that serves superb seafood and delicious Maltese wine. 

Day 4: Strolls, shopping and swimming in Sliema and St Julian’s 

St Julian’s and Sliema are some of the most popular destinations on the island and stretching your legs along the Sliema promenade is a Malta must! 

As you wander, don’t miss many of the fab boutique shops here, or the many little bays and natural pools you’ll find. These include Fond Ghadir Beach and Balluta Bay – both spot on for a refreshing dip. 

With plenty of restaurants, Sliema and St Julian’s also offer culinary indulgences, usually with a coastal view.  

For a memorable meal, try Taro at The Villa for fine dining, Wigi’s Kitchen for local seafood, or Gululu for classic Maltese dishes right by the water. 

Otherwise, a sunset drink at Spinola Bay is a rite of passage! 

If nightlife is your vibe, Paceville in St Julian’s is the place to go for cheap drinks and pumping music.  

Where to stay in Malta: Top picks for a four-day trip 

There are plenty of great places to stay in Malta, but here are some top picks: 

AX ODYCY, Qawra 4* 

This large hotel has two rooftop infinity pools (including an adults-only terrace), a waterpark, plus a spa and five restaurants. You'll also be within walking distance of the beach, Bugibba Square and the scenic Qawra promenade. 

beHotel, St Julians 4* 

Modern and centrally located in St. Julians, beHotel puts you steps from the beach, shops and nightlife. Plus, it features a rooftop pool with vast bay views. 

Grand Hotel Excelsior, Valletta 4*+ 

An upmarket stay just outside Valletta's city walls, this luxurious spot features a seafront pool, a fantastic spa and sweeping harbour scenery. 

Getting around Malta: Transport tips 

Malta’s small size makes getting around relatively easy, although traffic can be busy during peak times. 

Public buses are the cheapest way to travel. A single fare is €2 (€2.50 during the summer months between June and October), which allows free transfers during a two-hour period. Or you can grab a Tallinja Card or an Explore Flex Card. The Malta Public Transport website provides more information on the various travel cards available. 

For short hops, such as to Sliema or Valletta to Gozo, ferries are ideal.  There’s the Gozo HighSpeed ferry or the larger Gozo Channel ferries from Ċirkewwa that can also carry passenger cars. 

Speaking of cars, car hire is useful if you're heading to remote spots or want to get around Gozo on your own. Driving is on the left which makes it a bit easier! Lastly, Bolt works like Uber and is super-convenient and cheap for short rides, especially late at night. 

Travel tips for your Malta getaway 

• Bring reef shoes. Many swimming spots are rocky, not sandy, and reef shoes will help protect your feet.
• Tap water is safe, but it doesn’t taste great. Bring a refillable filter bottle instead of buying bottled water to save cash and the environment.
• Avoid midday heat, especially during the summer and bring good UV sunscreen and a decent sun hat.
• Respect church dress codes. Dress respectfully and modestly, which means covering your shoulders and knees when entering religious buildings.
• Try to wear layers. Evenings can be cool outside of summer, so consider long sleeved tops, thin trousers and even a light jacket.
• Book Gozo tours in advance, especially in high season – the island can get very busy. 

Is four days in Malta enough? 

Absolutely! In fact, four days in Malta is a great amount of time to get a feel for this country’s magic. You’ll explore the capital, take a day trip to Gozo and experience beautiful beaches without rushing.  Of course, you could easily spend a week (or more) here, but a Malta itinerary for four days is good taster! 

Final thoughts 

Malta may be small, but it delivers in droves! From ancient, walled cities and crystalline bays, to hearty food and welcoming locals, it’s the kind of place you arrive thinking ‘this is lovely’, and leave already planning your return. 

Whether you’re into history, sun-seeking, eating, drinking (or all the above!), Malta is one of the easiest and most rewarding destinations to explore in just a few days. 

Time to book your trip to the Mediterranean gem?