Malta 2 Day Itinerary

48 Hours in Malta: A 2-Day Itinerary

This itinerary is designed for first-time visitors with limited time. It focuses on exploring the historical and cultural richness of Valletta, Malta’s capital, and includes some highlights of the island itself.

Day 1: Valletta - The Heart of History

  • Morning:

    • Things to do:

      • Explore Valletta: Start your day in the charming capital city of Valletta. Enjoy the stunning architecture, baroque churches and palaces, and panoramic views.

        • Visit the Grandmaster’s Palace: This historic palace offers a glimpse into Malta’s past as the seat of power for the Knights of St John. Check out the opulent State Rooms and admire the intricate tapestries.
        • Explore the Upper Barrakka Gardens: Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour and soak up the serene atmosphere.

    • Things to know: Valletta is a compact city, easily explored on foot. The streets are often cobbled and hilly, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a bit of a workout!

    • Transportation:

      • Walking is the best way to experience the charm of Valletta’s streets and discover hidden gems.

      • Optionally:

        • Take a ferry from Sliema or Valletta Waterfront to reach the capital city. Enjoy the scenic views during your short journey!
        • Visit the National Museum of Archaeology:** Explore artifacts from Malta’s rich history, dating back to its prehistoric origins.

    • Afternoon:

      • Stroll through the charming streets of Valletta and discover the unique blend of cultures and history in its buildings.

        • Option:

          • Explore Valletta’s historical landmarks:
            • St John’s Co-Cathedral (stunning baroque architecture, Caravaggio masterpieces)
            • The Palace Armoury (a fascinating collection of arms and armor from the Knights of Malta era)
            • St. Elmo Fortress (visit a museum inside this historic fortress and learn about its role in the Great Siege of Malta)

      • Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional Maltese restaurant, savoring dishes like “Fenek” (rabbit stew) or “Pastizzi” (savory pastries).

Afternoon:

  • Visit the Upper Barrakka Gardens: These beautiful gardens offer panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the surrounding fortifications.

  • Explore Valletta’s charming streets: Wander through the narrow, winding alleys of Valletta, experiencing the city’s unique charm.

  • Optionally:

    • Take a walking tour: Learn about Valletta’s history and architecture from a knowledgeable guide.
    • Visit the Grand Master’s Palace Armoury: This historical museum is a must-see for its impressive collection of arms and armor from Malta’s past.
    • Explore the city’s museums and churches: Visit the National Museum of Fine Arts, the Malta Museum of Natural History, or one of the many other fascinating museums in Valletta.

  • Experience the Grand Harbour:

    • Take a boat tour to see the historic harbor from a different perspective.

  • Visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral: Admire the stunning architecture and Baroque artwork of this magnificent cathedral.

  • Explore the National War Museum: Discover the island’s rich history of wartime resilience.

Evening:

  • Dinner with a view: Enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants along the waterfront in Valletta, taking in the beautiful views of the city lights and the harbor.

  • Explore the nightlife:

    • Valletta is known for its vibrant nightlife. After dinner, enjoy a drink at a local bar or join a pub crawl to experience the city’s best pubs and bars.

  • Attend a concert:

    • Check out the schedule of the Manoel Theatre and see if there are any performances during your visit.

Day 2: Beyond the City Walls

  • Morning:

    • Relax on the beach: Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea at one of Malta’s beautiful beaches. Golden Bay is a popular choice for swimming and sunbathing.

  • Visit a historical site:

    • Optionally:

      • Explore the ancient temples of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra in the morning for stunning views and a glimpse into Malta’s prehistoric past.
      • Wander through the charming streets of Valletta, enjoying its unique architecture and atmosphere.

  • Explore the island:

    • Visit the Blue Grotto: Enjoy a boat trip to the breathtaking Blue Grotto caves.
    • Explore the ancient city of Mdina: Take a day trip to Mdina, the “Silent City,” and wander through its narrow streets, exploring historical sites like St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Mdina Dungeons.

  • Afternoon:

      * **Visit Valletta's waterfront:** Enjoy the views of the Grand Harbour while strolling along the beautiful promenade.
  * **Explore a different part of Malta:** Take a ferry from Valletta to explore the Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua.

  * **Enjoy the local cuisine:** 
      * Sample "Pastizzi" (savory pastries) at a local bakery or "pastizzeria".
      * Visit the fishing village of Marsaxlokk:
          * Enjoy the bustling fish market for fresh seafood and local produce.
          * Explore the charming harbor, browse the stalls at the Sunday Market, or visit the ancient temples across the street in Marsaxlokk.

  * **Evening:**

      *  Enjoy a traditional Maltese dinner with stunning views of the harbor.
    • Explore Valletta’s history further: * Visit the Grand Master’s Palace and learn about its fascinating past as the seat of power for the Knights of Malta. * Explore the historical sites of Valletta, like St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the historic city of Mdina.

Things to Know:

  • Visa requirements: As a Schengen area country, Malta has specific rules regarding who needs a visa to enter. For stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period, citizens from many countries, including the US, UK, and EU member states, can enter Malta visa-free. However, it’s crucial to check if your nationality requires a Schengen visa for entry, as rules can vary depending on your passport.

  • Currency: The currency in Malta is the Euro (€).

  • Language: Maltese is the official language of Malta, but English is also widely spoken and used as the main language for business and government.

  • Currency: The euro (€) is the official currency of Malta.

  • Transportation:

    • Public transport in Malta is efficient and affordable, with buses covering most areas of the island. Consider purchasing a Tallinja Card for discounted travel.

  • Travel tips:

    • Carry cash: While credit cards are widely accepted in Valletta, it’s still good practice to carry some cash for smaller vendors, markets, or tipping.
    • Explore the narrow streets: Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for walking. The charming streets of Valletta are known for their steep hills and winding paths, so a map and a sense of adventure (and good fitness!) will be helpful.

  • Use public transport: Malta’s buses are a reliable way to get around the island, and you can purchase a Tallinja Card for discounted fares.

  • Enjoy the nightlife:

    • Visit a local bar or pub and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Valletta after dark.
    • Experience the unique charm of the Maltese islands:
      • Enjoy a boat trip to the Blue Grotto, a series of stunning sea caves on the island’s southern coast.
    • Consider:

  • Taking a taxi or bus: It’s easier and cheaper to get around Valletta by walking.

  • Enjoying the nightlife: Valletta is a vibrant city with a lot to offer after dark, but be aware that the “silent city” nickname refers to its historical significance, not its current noise level!

Transportation Tips:

  • Taxis are readily available in Valletta:

    • They’re often marked by their colour (white) and a sign on the roof.

  • Busses are an affordable option:

    • The Malta Public Transport website has information on routes and schedules.**

Transportation Tips:

  • Taxis:

Remember:

  • Buy a “Tallinja Card” for discounted fares:
  • Purchase your ticket from the driver.
  • You can use the card for all public transport across Malta, including busses.
  • Plan your route and factor in walking time:

Planning:

  • Consider planning a day trip to the island of Gozo: This island is known for its picturesque villages, stunning beaches, and tranquil atmosphere.

Things to consider when traveling:

  • Public transport:

    • Malta’s public transport system is reliable but can be crowded.**

  • Exploring Valletta:

  • Public Transport:

    • Consider walking in the morning or late afternoon/early evening for a quieter experience, but it’s best to purchase a “Tallinja Card” and buy your tickets from a bus stop or ticket office.

  • Consider a “Tal-Linja” card:

    • This allows you to use public transport across all the islands in Malta.

  • Planning:

    • Consider travel time:
      • Busses are generally efficient, but allow for extra time in case of delays.
    • Pack for the bus:
      • Consider carrying a “Tallinja Card” and bringing water to stay hydrated.

  • Transportation:

    • Public Transport:
    • Malta uses a bus system for public transport.
    • Driving:
      • Driving is on the left side in Malta, which can be challenging for those from right-hand drive countries.

Things to consider:

  • Public transport is generally reliable, but it can be slow and unpredictable at times.
  • Buses are a good option for travel between towns and villages.

Transportation:

Important Note:

If you’re visiting Malta for the first time, it’s best to buy a “Tallinja Card” for discounted travel on public transport. This will help you get around the island more efficiently.

  • Public Transport:
    • Taxis are available but are not always readily available.

Other Tips:

  • Learn about the history of the Maltese Islands: Malta has a rich and fascinating history, dating back to ancient times.
  • Book a guided tour: This is a great way to learn about the island’s culture and heritage.
  • Try the local food:

Malta has a unique cuisine that reflects its history as a crossroads of cultures. *

Important things to remember when planning your travel:

  • Consider: Malta is known for its fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes.

Enjoy the Island’s Charm:

  • Buses are available on the island, but they can be crowded and unreliable at times.
  • Consider taking a ferry to explore the islands of Gozo and Comino.

Other Things to consider:

Transportation:

  • Public transportation: The public bus system is reliable for getting around Valletta.

For Tourists:

  • Remember that the public transport system in Valletta can be busy and crowded during peak hours, especially in the summer months.
  • Consider:
    • Travel insurance: It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance when travelling abroad, as it can protect you from unexpected events such as illness or injury.

Transportation:

  • Car rental: While car rentals are available, be aware that driving in Malta is challenging and traffic can be heavy.

  • Consider:

  • Taking a taxi: A good option for shorter trips, especially if you’re travelling with luggage.

  • Enjoy the public transport experience:

Exploring Valletta:

  • Consider using the bus system to explore the island.

Public Transport in Malta:

  • The “Malta Public Transport” website has information on routes and schedules.

  • Buses are generally reliable but can be crowded and infrequent outside of Valletta.

    • Consider exploring Valletta’s main attractions like St John’s Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster’s Palace, and Valletta Waterfront.

  • Explore Malta:

Explore the islands:

  • Consider taking a day trip to Gozo or Comino Island.
  • Enjoy the local culture: Explore the historic cities of Valletta and Mdina, which offer a glimpse into Malta’s rich past.

Consider:

  • Public transport: You can use the “Malta Public Transport” website for information on bus routes and schedules.**

Consider:

  • Exploring:

A variety of activities are available in Gozo:

  • The island of Gozo:

  • Enjoy local food and drink:

    • Try pastizzi (savory pastries) from a local bakery.

  • Transport:

  • Taxis: A convenient option for getting around Valletta but can be expensive for longer journeys.

  • Consider:

    • Public transportation: While buses are cheap, the schedule is not always reliable and they may not reach all destinations.**

Enjoy Malta’s unique charm:

  • Consider a day trip to the island of Gozo to experience its stunning beaches and historical sites.

  • Travel:

    • Consider:

    • Public transport:

Public transportation:

  • Book:

Consider booking tickets for ferries and attractions in advance, as they can be limited.

Transportation:

  • The bus: A convenient option for exploring the island’s interior but traffic outside Valletta can be slow.

  • Alternative transport:

    • Consider hiring a car or scooter to explore at your own pace.

Remember:

  • Public transport is generally efficient within Malta, but it can be less frequent and more challenging to navigate on public transport.
  • Consider:

Consider the following:

  • Public Transport:

    • Accessibility: The bus system in Malta is a good option for visitors who want to explore the island’s main attractions
    • Flexibility:

Public transport:

  • Consider using a ferry or boat trip, especially when visiting Goletta.

  • Public Transport:

    • The “Malta Public Transport” website has information on routes and fares.**

    • Travel:

  • Bus: While buses are cheap, they can be crowded and the journey times unpredictable.

  • Consider

  • Walking:

The best way to experience the beauty of Valletta is on foot.

  • Car Rental:

A great option for exploring Malta’s countryside and beaches.

Important Note: Remember that driving in Malta is on the left side!

Driving in Malta:

  • Public Transport:

    • Buses are a good way to see the island, but they can be crowded and infrequent for some destinations.

  • Car Rental:

  • Consider:

  • Travel with a car: This gives you more flexibility to explore the island’s diverse landscape.

  • Enjoy the scenery:

    • Explore:
    • Transport: Explore the various modes of transport available in Malta.

  • Use the ferry:

For traveling between islands, consider taking a ferry from Valletta Waterfront to enjoy the scenic views.

  • Consider:

  • Driving:

Consider driving is on the left side.

  • Explore the island:

The island of Gozo is a hidden gem with stunning cliffs and beaches.

  • Enjoy the local culture: Consider enjoying the traditional Maltese food and drink, like fresh fish and seafood.**

Remember:

  • Malta Public Transport:

Provides a variety of transportation options including ferries to the other islands.

For travel:

    1. Consider:

The island’s public transport system is generally efficient for getting around.

  • Enjoying:

Consider trying a traditional Maltese boat ride (the “Tallinja” ferry).

  • Transportation:

    • Remember:

  • Public Transport:

Learning about public transport in Malta and the islands is important.**

  • Bus routes are limited, but you can explore the island of Malta by bus.

  • Consider:

  • Exploring:

Visiting Gozo:

  • Stay hydrated:

*Remember to carry water on your trips, as the island’s climate can be hot and dry.

  • Travel with a local Maltese driver:

These are usually familiar with the island’s history and geography and can provide insightful commentary during your journey.

  • Public transport:

  • Enjoy:

A ferry ride to Gozo is an experience in itself.

Consider:

  • A bus trip:

This option offers a variety of scenic routes, including those that pass through the charming streets of Valletta and other villages.**

  • Enjoy the island’s diverse history:

The Grand Harbour:

  • The Grand Harbour is a great place to start your exploration.

For tourists:

  • Consider:

It’s important for visitors to consider their travel needs.
Think about:

  • Time of year:

If you are traveling during the peak season, public transportation options may be limited and crowded. *

  • Bus frequency:

The bus system in Malta is efficient within the island but can be less frequent and reliable for trips to other destinations like Comino.

Consider:

  • Public transport:

  • Try:

A boat trip to Gozo, or a day trip to Valletta Waterfront.

  • Driving:

You’ll need to consider:

  • Driving:

    • Accessibility:

Public transportation is available but not always convenient and can be less frequent.**

  • For tourists:

  • Driving:

Remember that driving in Malta is on the left side!

  • Transportation:
    • The bus system is a good way to see the island’s diverse landscapes.

Maltese Islands are:

  • Consider:

Hiring a car or using taxis may be necessary for exploring beyond the island, like visiting Valletta or taking a ferry trip.

  • For tourists:

A boat tour offers breathtaking views of the Maltese islands and is accessible to all.

Remember:

  • Accessibility:

  • To enjoy the best: *

  • Bus transportation: *

The bus system in Malta is generally reliable, but it can be a crowded experience.

  • Consider:

  • Time of year: