Curious things to do in Malta
Author: Amber-Louise Large
Good things come in small packages, like package holidays to little Malta. This island country is one of Europe’s sunniest destinations (we’re talking 300 days of sunshine a year) and it’s got a UNESCO-listed capital built by 16th Century knights. Oh, and it’s got pastizzi. Pastizzi are delicious. Once you’ve island hopped to Gozo and Comino, spent time on sandy beaches, swooned in front of the Blue Lagoon and done other classic activities, see more of Malta with our insider list of things to do.
If you like Malta’s relaxed nightlife, you’ll love a jazz night
Warm Maltese nights are made for mooching about on a terrace or balcony. As the last tendrils of daylight linger in Valletta, streetlights start to ripple over the Grand Harbour and locals chatter over cheese plates in bars. Head to the Bridge Bar and take a seat outside on one of the cushioned stone steps or at one of the tables flanking the bridge. It’s a lively setting cloaked in candlelight. Jazz musicians play every Friday between May and September, setting smooth musical notes floating on the breeze.
Top tip: Bridge Bar is much loved, so book ahead to secure a seat.
If you like Mdina, you’ll love Fontanella Tea Garden
Malta’s old capital Mdina is a marvel best viewed from the fortified walls encircling it. Luckily, there’s a tea shop atop the medieval city’s bastions so you can order cake with a side of island vistas. Ask anyone in Malta what to order at Fontanella and the answer will be “chocolate cake”: Mdina might be the ‘Silent City’ but its locals are loud about their love of that soft, moist, rich chocolate cake. The recipe has remained the same, and been revered, since the garden opened in 1975.
Top tip: There might be a queue – arrive early to beat the crowds and wait for a seat upstairs if you must. It’s worth it for the view.
If you like shopping for souvenirs, you’ll love the local crafts
Theatrical Caravaggios in St John’s Co-Cathedral. Basilica naves basking under ornate frescoes. It doesn’t take long to notice Malta has an eye for intricate beauty. This translates into the local craftmanship, with the islands being known for their filigree jewellery. Filigree is a type of metalwork that involves entwining threads of silver or gold to produce pieces resembling shining lace. You can often find filigree jewellery in crafts villages like Ta' Qali Artisan Village on the main island and Ta' Dbiegi Artisan Village on Gozo.
Top tip: Pieces displaying the Maltese cross are usually popular.
If you like Golden Bay, you’ll love Ghajn Tuffieha Bay
Being so diddy and all, the main island of Malta has plenty of sea-view spots. You’re usually just a hop, skip and a dive away from warm Mediterranean water. If you’ve already spent time on the fine sand of Golden Bay, or you’re looking for somewhere that tends to be a bit quieter, try Ghajn Tuffieha Bay which is less than a mile away. Walk down the 200-or-so steps leading to light auburn sand and paddle in view of a clifftop tower built by a Grand Master of the Knights Hospitaller.
Top tip: Stay until sunset to see the sand glow red and the sea reflect a golden sky.
If you like to party, you’ll love a Malta festival
Festivals are better in the sunshine, and Malta has plenty of golden rays to go around. With a penchant for partying and an impressive lineup of locations like pool clubs and private beaches, the island has become a hotspot for music and arts events in recent years. There’s SummerDaze for dance music, Glitch for techno and Isle of MTV for well-known DJs. Hoopla, an inclusive pop music festival that celebrates LGBTQ+ artists and diverse audiences, will also be wowing holidaymakers with a big weekend in Malta in 2025.
Top tip: Malta’s got great transport options like taxis as well as ride-hailing apps to help you get around.
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