Rising from the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta is a crossroads of civilizations — Phoenician traders, Arab seafarers, Norman knights, and British governors have all left their mark on this tiny but influential archipelago.
Its rich history spans more than 7,000 years, and its temples at Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra are among the oldest freestanding structures on Earth — older than the pyramids of Egypt. Every stone street, harbor fortress, and limestone cliff tells the story of an island that has guarded the sea routes between Europe and Africa for millennia.
Today Malta blends that layered past with a relaxed coastal rhythm, inviting travelers to uncover grand cathedrals, medieval towns, and golden beaches all within a compact area. This 4 days in Malta itinerary balances history, culture, and leisure — perfect for a long weekend that feels like a deep dive into the Mediterranean soul.
Day 1: Valletta – The Baroque Capital
Malta’s capital is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s most concentrated historic cities.
Morning
- Begin at St. John’s Co-Cathedral, a dazzling baroque masterpiece built by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century. Don’t miss its inlaid marble tombs, gilded ceilings, and Caravaggio’s powerful Beheading of St. John the Baptist.
- Walk along Republic Street, lined with artisan shops, cafés, and balconies draped in flowers.
Afternoon
- Step into The Malta Experience, an immersive film tracing the island’s 7,000-year story. Afterward, tour the Knights Hospitaller hospital, once famed across Europe for its advanced medical care.
- Pause at Upper Barrakka Gardens to watch the noon cannon salute and take in sweeping views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities.
Evening
- For dinner, choose between Nenu the Artisan Baker, serving traditional Maltese ftira baked in stone ovens, or Rampila, an elegant restaurant set within Valletta’s bastion walls with terrace views over the city.
- End with a twilight stroll through Valletta’s softly lit lanes and harbor overlooks.
Love Baroque architecture? Discover stunning masterpieces across the continent in our guide to 8 Must-See Baroque Churches in Europe
Day 2: The Three Cities – Birgu, Senglea, & Cospicua
Across the Grand Harbour from Valletta, the fortified Three Cities reveal the island’s maritime and military legacy.
Morning
- Hop on the Valletta–Birgu ferry, a short but scenic ride offering postcard views.
- Explore Fort St. Angelo, headquarters of the Knights of St. John during the Great Siege of 1565.
- Wander Birgu’s narrow lanes to the Inquisitor’s Palace, a rare surviving example of its kind in Europe.
Afternoon
- Continue to Senglea for panoramic photos from the Gardjola Gardens, marked by its watchtower carved with eyes and ears symbolizing vigilance.
- Stroll the waterfront of Cospicua, stopping at a harbor café for lunch.
Evening
- Enjoy dinner at a marina restaurant overlooking Valletta illuminated across the water.
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Day 3: Mdina & Ħaġar Qim Archaeological Site
From medieval elegance to prehistoric mystery, Day 3 reveals two of Malta’s most remarkable eras.
Morning — Mdina, the Silent City
- Enter Mdina through its iconic stone gate and wander quiet lanes that seem frozen in time.
- Visit St. Paul’s Cathedral, adorned with marble floors and gilded chapels.
- Step into Palazzo Falson, a beautifully preserved Norman palace filled with period furnishings, art, and antique weaponry.
- Pause for a drink or coffee on the rooftop café terrace, which offers sweeping countryside views — an ideal mid-morning break.
Afternoon — Ancient Temples
- Drive south to the Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra Temples, dating back to around 3600 BCE. These megalithic sanctuaries align with the solstices and feature intricate carvings that still puzzle archaeologists.
- Visit the interpretive center for interactive exhibits explaining how these prehistoric structures were built long before the pyramids or Stonehenge.
Evening
- Return to Mdina or nearby Rabat for dinner. When the crowds leave, Mdina’s softly glowing streets make it one of Europe’s most atmospheric places to dine.
Day 4: Coastal Escape – Beaches & St. Paul’s Bay
Trade ancient stones for golden sand as you head to Malta’s scenic western coast.
Morning
- Relax at Golden Bay, a crescent of soft sand backed by cliffs. Swim, rent a kayak, or simply unwind beneath an umbrella.
Afternoon
- Continue to St. Paul’s Bay, where the Apostle Paul was shipwrecked en route to Rome around 60 AD. A small monument marks the traditional site.
- Enjoy lunch at a seaside bistro with fresh seafood and a chilled Maltese white wine.
Evening
- Return to Valletta or Sliema for your farewell dinner overlooking the illuminated harbor — the perfect finale to four rich days in Malta.
Craving more seaside inspiration? Check out our guide to 11 Best Beaches in Europe
for more inspiration.
Optional Day 5: Gozo – Malta’s Peaceful Sister Island
If time allows, a day on Gozo adds a quieter, rural dimension to your Malta adventure.
Getting There
- Take the Gozo Channel Ferry from Ċirkewwa (north Malta) to Mgarr Harbour in Gozo — about 25 minutes, with departures every 30–45 minutes.
- Alternatively, in summer, the fast ferry from Valletta’s Grand Harbour gets you there in about 45 minutes and docks right in Mgarr.
What to See
- Explore Victoria’s Citadel, a fortified town offering panoramic island views.
- Visit Dwejra Bay, famous for the Blue Hole and the dramatic remains of the Azure Window.
- Stop in Xlendi Bay for a seaside lunch or cliffside stroll before returning by ferry
Practical Travel Tips
- Getting Around: The easiest and most convenient way to explore Malta is by Uber or Bolt. Rides are quick, reliable, and inexpensive compared to taxis.
- Best Time to Visit: April – June and September – October offer warm weather and manageable crowds.
- Language & Currency: English is widely spoken; the euro is used throughout.
- Cultural Etiquette: Maltese locals value friendliness — a simple “grazzi” (thank you) goes a long way.
A Perfect Balance of History and Relaxation
In just four days, you can experience Malta’s essence — the grandeur of Valletta, the living heritage of the Three Cities, the silence of Mdina, and the serenity of its golden coastline. Add an optional day on Gozo, and you’ll understand why this tiny island nation has captivated travelers for millennia.
Want to experience Malta like an insider? Guidester’s custom travel planning and small-group tours bring you closer to authentic culture, history, and hidden gems. Let us craft your perfect Malta journey.
Hi, I’m Jack Baumann – founder of Guidester. I’ve spent over 15 years living and traveling throughout Europe, and I created Guidester in 2014 to help others experience the best of what Europe has to offer. What started as a passion project has grown into a full-service travel concierge and tour company, designed to make your journey smoother, richer, and more meaningful.
Want to know more about my story? Click here to learn more about me.
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