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Malta in 4 days might sound challenging, but it’s possible. The thought of not experiencing everything can be overwhelming; I get that. However, I’m confident you can fully enjoy top Malta’s sites within your limited schedule. So, take a deep breath. Smart planning is all you need to discover Malta.
Setting Expectations for What You Can See in Malta in 4 Days
Malta in 4 days may seem like a race against the clock. But here’s the thing: Malta is compact. With just a short drive, you can jump from centuries-old towns to sunny beaches. From narrow city lanes to open countryside. It’s all doable.
Seasons add another dimension to your Malta experience. Summer in Malta screams beach time and water sports. Imagine spending an afternoon snorkelling in the clear waters or chilling on the sandy beach. Can you feel the sun yet?
And winter? It’s time for hiking and history. Explore the countryside’s winding trails. I wrote a post about what to do in Malta in winter. Check it out!
Malta in 4 Days: Choosing the Best Attractions
The island of Malta has so much to offer, but to see it in 4 days, you have to prioritise what brings you joy and plan ahead.
Remember, this is your holiday. It’s your time to unwind and indulge. I will list some ideas to help you decide what to include in your itinerary.
Must-See Places for History Enthusiasts
If you want to understand Malta’s history well, take a walking tour in Valletta. Look at my guide for the best Valletta walking tours.
Ready to step back in time? Trust me, dedicating a whole day is worth it.
Here are some must-visit spots:
Valletta: Welcome to a city of grand fortresses and stunning Baroque architecture. Founded by the Knights of St John, Valletta has tales to tell. And guess what? There’s a labyrinth of tunnels beneath the city that adds mystery. You’ll have a blast exploring the streets, chilling in the gardens, and visiting St John’s Cathedral. And for World War II buffs, the Lascaris War Rooms and HQ War Tunnels are worth a visit. Check out my complete Valletta guide.
Mdina: Imagine a city frozen in time. That’s Mdina for you. Also known as the Silent City, it dates back to the Phoenicians. Wandering through its maze-like streets is like a treasure hunt – surprises await at every turn. Don’t miss the panoramic views. Here’s my comprehensive guide to this silent city.
The Three Cities: If you want the real Malta, head to Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua. Take a ferry from Valletta, enjoy the stunning Grand Harbour views, and immerse yourself in history. Take a stroll through ancient fortifications, enjoy narrow streets, and visit museums and galleries. Find out more in this guide.
Megalithic Temples: These structures were built between 3600 BC and 2500 BC, making them among the oldest structures on earth. The intricate carvings and grand facades of Malta’s Megalithic Temples are like a story etched in stone. As you walk around, you can’t help but think about the people who built them. Hagar Qim and Majndra Temples are highly recommended. Learn more in this Unesco Sites guide.
Hal Saflieni Hypogeum: Let’s travel back to the Neolithic era, around 3300 to 3000 BC. This sanctuary and necropolis houses over 7,000 remains in its underground chambers. Marvel at the red ochre paintings on the ceilings and experience the advanced acoustics. Remember to book in advance as the number of visitors is restricted.
Are you ready for your history lesson? Malta is waiting. Let’s start exploring.
Discover Malta in 4 Days: Nature Sites
Malta may be small but it’s rich with natural spots. Love panoramic views while hiking? So, dust off your hiking boots, it’s time for an adventure.
There are some gems in the Maltese archipelago that are must-visit. Check out the links for full descriptions and more pictures. A plan for two or three sights per day works well. You can dedicate a day each to Gozo and Comino, or just pick one. The choice is yours.
Get a FREE Attractions Map
Planning a trip to Malta, Gozo, or Comino? Get this free interactive map filled with insider tips, Google Maps links, and more.
Natural Wonders in Gozo
Dwejra Bay: Kickstart with Dwejra Bay. Limestone cliffs. Azure waters. This is Gozo’s natural spectacle. Explore the Blue Hole, an exotic underwater cave that attracts scuba divers and snorkelers. There is Dwejra Tower and Fungus Rock. The bay blends cultural history and geology. Catch a sunset or hike along the coast. Check out my guide to Dwejra Bay.
Wied il-Ghasri: Travel to Gozo’s north coast. Wied il-Ghasri, a secluded bay cradled with towering cliffs. The small, pebbled beach stretches inland. From the top, marvel at the canyon-like landscapes or swim along the walls to the open sea. It’s off-the-beaten-path but worth the journey. Find a guide to Wied il-Ghasri here.
Mgarr-Ix-Xini: It is a canyon-like bay with crystal clear waters and raw natural beauty. Bask in the tranquil atmosphere and explore the hiking trails. Here’s a guide for you.
Book a jeep or quad bike tour and see all Gozo sights in one day.
Comino’s Natural Charm
Comino, a splendid island nestled between Malta and Gozo, is difficult to miss. Here are the highlights.
Blue Lagoon: Enjoy blue waters and stunning Mediterranean views. This natural swimming pool is sheltered and shallow. Summers can get busy though. Learn more about Comino and Blue Lagoon. Also, check out my top recommended boat tours from Malta to Blue Lagoon.
Crystal Lagoon: A bay only accessible by boat, nestled on Comino’s rugged coastline. Turquoise to deep blue waters enveloped by limestone cliffs. You can explore reefs and a tunnel cave with a sandy beach. A fantastic alternative if Blue Lagoon is crowded.
Santa Maria Caves: Unique cave system in Comino that draws swimmers for underwater exploration and photo ops. An enclosed natural swimming pool offers snorkelers an excellent view of the sea entrance.
The Green Side of Malta
Apart from scenic beaches, a rich history, and cultural heritage, Malta has its secret nature treasures.
Red Tower Area: This 17th-century watchtower on the northern coast offers breathtaking views of Ghadira Bay and the sea between Comino and Gozo. A quick stroll to the west will leave you awestruck. Check out my hiking guide here.
Coral Lagoon: A sea cave with a collapsed roof. It offers beautiful views of Gozo and Comino. Perfect for kayaking or chilling out. But be cautious, jumping can be risky. Here’s a guide for you.
Munxar Arch: A limestone arch in Marsaskala. Swim and snorkel here, or hike up the white limestone cliffs for breathtaking views. The cliffs are light, offering a stark contrast to the blue waters. Check out my hiking guide here.
Majjistral Park: A sanctuary teeming with biodiversity, Majjistral Park is located in Mellieha, northern Malta. Named after the northwestern wind, it offers coastal views, untouched biodiversity, and culture. Here is a hiking guide.
Fun-Filled Activities for Adventure Seekers
Looking for a thrill? Here are some heart-pounding activities.
Scuba diving: You’ll see a different world underwater. Colourful fish. Ancient shipwrecks. Beautiful reefs. Even if you’ve never dived before, it’s okay. Try a test dive first. Check out my guide to the best sites.
Snorkelling: Not into diving? Try snorkelling. You don’t need to get deep. Float on the surface and watch the marine life below. It’s like being in a giant aquarium.
Kayaking and paddle boarding: It’s a fun way to explore the coastline. You might even see dolphins. Or find a secluded beach.
Parasailing: For a bird’s-eye view, try parasailing. It’s a fantastic feeling. And the views are incredible.
Jetski or banana ride: It’s fast and wet. And exciting.
So, are you ready for an adventure?
Chill Time: Relaxation Opportunities
After all the adventures and sightseeing, you might need a break. That’s okay. Malta has lots of ways to relax. Here are some suggestions.
Sun and sand: Malta has some great beaches. Soft sand. Blue sea. Lots of sunshine. Grab a book. Put on some sunblock. Relax and soak up the sun. Check out my guide to Malta’s beaches.
Pool day: Not a beach person? No problem. Visit a beach club. Spend a day by the pool. Cool off with a swim. Order a snack. Enjoy a drink.
Pamper yourself: For ultimate relaxation, try a spa. Enjoy a massage. Or a body treatment. It’s the perfect way to unwind.
Solo Adventures: Tips for Traveling Alone
Travelling solo in Malta? It’s a fun experience. Here’s how to make it awesome.
Meet new friends: People in Malta are friendly. Visit popular spots. Or join fun events. You’ll find people to chat with quickly.
Stay safe: Always tell someone where you’re heading. If you feel unsure, trust your feelings. It’s okay to leave.
Fun activities: Traveling alone means doing what you want. Visit museums or go for a hike. Or just wander around. See where the day takes you.
Want more solo travel tips? Check out my solo travel guide. It’s full of ideas for you.
Malta in 4 Days: Navigating the Maltese Islands Efficiently
When planning your day, try visiting nearby places on the same day. It’ll save you time. For a more detailed guide on how to get around Malta.
Secondly, Malta has lots of traffic. It can slow you down, so plan for it.
Now, let’s talk about transport in Malta. You have options, but you’ll want to pick the one that suits your needs.
Public transport: It’s okay and gets you to most places. But it might be slow. Especially if you have a packed itinerary.
Renting a car: If you want speed, consider renting a car. Discover Cars is an excellent choice. They offer a wide selection of vehicles and competitive prices. Plus, they have an all-inclusive insurance option. Check out my guide to renting a car in Malta.
Taxis: They can get you where you need to go. But keep an eye on the cost. It can add up.
Creating Room for Spontaneity: Keep Your Plans Flexible
Don’t let schedules chain you. Inject free time into your plan. Quality over quantity, right?
Here are some tips.
Keep things loose: Yes, planning is key. But leave some room in your schedule. It’ll let you follow those unexpected paths.
Be open to change: You might stumble upon a hidden gem. Or meet some fascinating folks. You never know.
Trust yourself: You’re the boss of your trip. Feel like changing plans? Go for it. Want to spend an extra hour at the beach? Why not?
Let Malta surprise you: There’s a lot to discover, more than fits into any plan. Embrace the unexpected.
In the end, remember that travel is about more than just seeing the sights. It’s about adventure and, most importantly, having fun.
I hope you found this guide helpful! If you’re planning a different trip length, I also have a 7-day and a 2-day itinerary for Malta. Feel free to check them out.
Have questions about your Malta trip? Join my FREE private Facebook group, Malta Travel Tips, where you can find helpful resources and connect with fellow travellers!