Malta: one of the smallest countries in the world with so much to do and see

Malta may be the world's tenth-smallest country by area, but it is overflowing with history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. It had been at the top of my travel bucket list for years, and this summer we finally had the chance to cross it off! Although we spent only four days on the island, we were amazed by how much there was to see and do. From historic cities and crystal-clear waters to charming villages and incredible food, every day was packed with unforgettable experiences. In fact, our visit felt far too short! Below are some of our favorite places and a few must-do experiences that I highly recommend for anyone planning a trip to this beautiful Mediterranean island.

See the island by boat

One of the best ways to experience Malta is from the water. Whether you rent a private boat, hop aboard the hop-on hop-off ferry, or join a guided cruise, exploring the island by sea offers a completely different perspective. We chose a catamaran tour because it accommodated fewer passengers and offered comfortable seating, making it well worth paying a little extra for a more relaxed, small-group experience. We booked the Blue Lagoon, Beaches and Bays Catamaran Sailing Tour through Viator, and it quickly became one of the highlights of our trip. The itinerary included stops at the stunning Blue Lagoon, famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters; the breathtaking Crystal Lagoon, surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs; and a scenic cruise past Popeye Village, the charming film set built for the 1980 Popeye movie. It was the perfect way to discover Malta's spectacular coastline and some of its most beautiful hidden coves.

Visit the small town of Mdina, also known as the Silent City

No trip to Malta is complete without visiting Mdina, the island's enchanting walled city, often referred to as the "Silent City." Perched on one of Malta's highest points, Mdina served as the island's capital for centuries and feels like stepping back in time. As you pass through its impressive medieval gates, you'll find yourself wandering a maze of narrow cobblestone streets lined with honey-colored limestone buildings, elegant palaces, and beautiful churches. With very few cars allowed inside the city walls, Mdina offers a peaceful atmosphere that invites you to slow down and simply explore. Be sure to visit St. Paul's Cathedral, stroll along the ancient bastions for breathtaking panoramic views of the island, and stop at the famous Fontanella Tea Garden for a slice of their legendary chocolate cake. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, photography, or simply soaking in the unique atmosphere, Mdina is one of Malta's most unforgettable destinations.

Valletta: Malta's Historic Capital

A visit to Valletta, Malta's UNESCO World Heritage capital, is like walking through an open-air museum. Founded by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century, the city is filled with magnificent Baroque architecture, grand churches, historic palaces, and charming streets lined with colorful wooden balconies. Despite its rich history, Valletta has a lively atmosphere, with bustling cafés, local shops, and waterfront restaurants around every corner. We spent hours simply wandering its streets, discovering hidden courtyards and enjoying breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour from the Upper Barrakka Gardens. One of the highlights was visiting St. John's Co-Cathedral, whose plain exterior hides one of the most lavishly decorated interiors in Europe, including Caravaggio's masterpiece, The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist. As the sun began to set, the city's golden limestone buildings glowed in the warm Mediterranean light, creating a truly magical atmosphere. Whether you're passionate about history, architecture, or simply love exploring beautiful cities on foot, Valletta is an absolute must-see and one of the highlights of any trip to Malta.