How to Spend a Week in Malta: Best Itinerary, Costs & Tips

Malta is a sun-soaked gem in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea. With its dazzling turquoise waters, rich history stretching back thousands of years, and a blend of cultures that shaped its unique character, Malta is the ultimate destination for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient cities, diving into crystal-clear bays, or sampling Mediterranean cuisine, Malta has something for everyone. Planning a week in Malta ensures you experience its best offerings without feeling rushed.

How to Reach Malta

Malta is easily accessible by air, with Malta International Airport (MLA) in Luqa serving as the main gateway. Most major European cities have direct flights to Malta, with airlines like Ryanair, Air Malta, and EasyJet offering regular connections. For travelers from outside Europe, connecting flights via cities like London, Rome, or Istanbul are common.

Estimated Costs of Getting There

• From Europe: Round-trip flights generally range from €80 to €200 depending on the season.
• From outside Europe: Expect flights to cost between €300 and €800.

Travel Tip: Book flights at least two to three months in advance for the best prices, especially if you plan to visit during summer (June–September).

Transportation Options

Malta is a compact country, so getting around is relatively easy.

• Public Bus: Malta’s bus network covers most destinations and is affordable.
  • Single fare: €2–€3 (summer prices are slightly higher).
  • Weekly bus pass: €21.
• Car Rental: Popular for exploring remote beaches and countryside.
  • Cost: €20–€40 per day (plus fuel).
• Ferry: Short ferries connect Malta with Gozo and Comino islands.
  • Malta–Gozo ferry: €5 for passengers, €15 for a car.

Travel Tip: Driving is on the left in Malta. Streets in Valletta and Mdina are narrow, so public transport is often easier for cities.

Malta offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and styles.

Budget:

• Hostels: €15–€30 per night (Valletta, Sliema, or St. Julian’s).

Mid-range:

• Guesthouses and B&Bs: €40–€80 per night.
• 3-star hotels: €60–€100 per night.

Luxury:

• Boutique hotels/5-star resorts: €120–€300 per night (Valletta, Mdina, Mellieha).

Recommended Areas to Stay:

• Valletta: Central, historical, perfect for exploring Malta’s heritage.
• Sliema & St. Julian’s: Vibrant nightlife, shopping, and seafront walks.
• Gozo: Quieter island vibe for a relaxed experience.

Estimated Weekly Accommodation Cost:

• Budget traveler: €150–€250
• Mid-range traveler: €350–€700
• Luxury traveler: €900–€2000

Malta’s food is a flavorful blend of Mediterranean influences with a local twist.

Must-Try Foods:

• Pastizzi: Flaky pastry filled with ricotta or peas, street food staple.
• Rabbit Stew (Fenkata): Malta’s national dish, often enjoyed in countryside restaurants.
• Lampuki Pie: Fish pie, a seasonal favorite.
• Ftira: Traditional Maltese bread, often served with tuna, olives, and capers.
• Hobz biz-zejt: Bread with olive oil, tomatoes, and local fillings.

Estimated Meal Costs:

• Street food/snack: €2–€4
• Casual restaurant: €8–€15 per meal
• Mid-range restaurant: €20–€35 per person for three courses
• Fine dining: €40–€80 per person

Weekly Food Budget:

• Budget: €70–€120
• Mid-range: €150–€250
• Luxury: €400–€600

Day 1: Explore Valletta – The Historic Capital

Stroll through Valletta’s streets, visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and enjoy panoramic views from Upper Barracca Gardens.

• Cost: Entrance fees for museums/cathedral (€10–€15), meals (€15–€30)

Day 2: Discover the Three Cities & Vittoriosa Waterfront

Take a traditional dgħajsa boat to Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua. Soak up local culture and history.

• Cost: Boat ride (€2–€8), cafes (€10–€20)

Day 3: Ancient Mdina and Rabat

Explore the medieval walled city of Mdina, known as the “Silent City.” Visit St. Paul’s Catacombs in Rabat and enjoy coffee at Fontanella Tea Garden with sweeping views.

• Cost: Entry fees (€5–€10), meals/snacks (€10–€25)

Day 4: Blue Grotto, Hagar Qim & Marsaxlokk

Marvel at the Blue Grotto’s sea caves (boat tour), discover ancient megalithic temples, and savor seafood in the fishing village of Marsaxlokk.

• Cost: Blue Grotto boat (€10), temples (€10), seafood lunch (€15–€30)

Day 5: Gozo Island Adventure

Take the ferry to Gozo. Visit the Citadel in Victoria, swim at Ramla Bay, and explore Dwejra Bay (Inland Sea, Fungus Rock).

• Cost: Ferry (€5), transport (€10–€20), meals (€15–€30)

Day 6: Comino and the Blue Lagoon

Spend a day relaxing and swimming in the famous Blue Lagoon on Comino Island.

• Cost: Ferry/boat trip (€15–€25), meals (€10–€20)

Day 7: Sliema, St. Julian’s & Relaxation

Stroll along the seafront promenade, shop, or unwind on the beaches. Enjoy nightlife if you wish.

• Cost: Meals/snacks (€15–€25), nightlife (optional)

• Budget traveler: €400–€600 (hostels, public transport, casual meals)
• Mid-range traveler: €800–€1,200 (mid-range hotels, mix of restaurant/casual meals)
• Luxury traveler: €1,800–€3,000+ (boutique/luxury hotels, fine dining, car rental)

Costs may fluctuate based on the season, accommodation choices, and personal spending habits. Summer is high season, so book early for best prices.

• Crystal-clear waters: Blue Lagoon, Golden Bay, Mellieha Bay, St. Peter’s Pool
• Historical landmarks: Valletta (UNESCO site), Mdina, megalithic temples (some of the world’s oldest)
• Natural wonders: Dingli Cliffs, Blue Grotto, Dwejra Bay
• Vibrant villages: Marsaxlokk, Victoria (Gozo), Senglea
• Lively culture: Annual festivals, village festas, traditional Maltese music

Language:
English and Maltese are official languages; most locals speak fluent English.

Currency:
Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash for markets or small towns.

Weather:
Malta has a Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot (up to 35°C/95°F), winters mild (10–20°C/50–68°F).

Health & Safety:
Malta is considered very safe. Tap water is generally safe but bottled water is recommended for drinking. Take care in the sun and stay hydrated.

Dress Code:
Casual, but bring modest clothes for church visits. Swimwear is for beaches only.

Power Sockets:
British-style (Type G); bring an adapter if needed.

Local Laws & Customs:
Respect church rules, especially regarding photography and attire. Malta is welcoming but conservative; topless sunbathing is not permitted in public.

Caution for Travelers:

• Driving: Roads can be narrow and busy, especially in cities.
• High Season Crowds: Tourist areas get crowded in summer. Book accommodation and key attractions in advance.
• Scams: Rare, but be wary of overpriced taxi fares—use official services or apps like Bolt or eCabs.

Final Thoughts

A week in Malta is an unforgettable blend of history, natural beauty, and Mediterranean charm. With careful planning, you can enjoy stunning sights, delicious food, friendly locals, and relaxing days by the sea—without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a couple, or a family, Malta promises memories to last a lifetime.