1 Day in Malta: What to do and what to see

Gnejna Bay Malta – By Frank Vincentz – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=33383199

Maybe you are headed on a long trip, and you have a short layover. Or, your flight was redirected a tiny island off the southern coast of Europe, nestled between Africa, Turkey, and Greece. Where are you? Fortunately, you have stumbled across one of the hidden gems of Europe — Malta.

Malta is a tiny island with beautiful cities, hundreds of historical monuments, incredible churches, educational museums, and breathtaking nature that will make you want to stay more than one day! But if you are on a schedule, you need to figure out the top things to do in Malta if you are only here for 24 hours — and why it will make you want to come back for more as soon as possible. 

Valletta

Valletta Malta – By Dion Hinchcliffe – https://www.flickr.com/photos/14966804@N03/39570984425, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=66777466

Valletta is the smallest capital in Europe! And did you know it is the sunniest city in the entire continent? Featuring hundreds of monuments, a tiny surface area, miles of coastline, and numerous cultural things to do, Valletta is one of the most interesting capitals for you to visit and spend some time in during your Euro adventure. Bring a clear camera, wear some good walking shoes, and take at least a few hours to wander around this incredible capital city. 

We recommend heading to the Grandmaster’s Palace and Armory as one of your first stops.

Next, cruise around the local water through the Grand Harbor on a chartered boat or during a tour that can take you more about the culture, history, and people in the local area. 

If it happens to rain during your 24 hours in Malta, check out the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta, one of the best cultural attractions in the city that can teach you more about the buildings and geology of the Maltese capital. 

Restaurants in Valletta

Duck meat dish Italian food-by Akahito Yamabe-Wikimedia Commons

If you spend the majority of your time in Valletta during your one-day trip, there are a few restaurants that you MUST visit during your day here.

First, head to Museum Cafe or Cafe Jubilee to start the day off right. The Museum Cafe is nestled right in the historical square near the Saint John’s Co-Cathedral and churns out hearty sandwiches, whereas the Cafe Jubilee has healthy and fresh dishes, like avocado toast and iced coffee.

Second, for lunch, we love the Kingsway Bar and Restaurant near the cathedral. Another popular spot is Papannis Restaurant or the Palazzo Preca Restaurant in the historical area that has fresh Mediterranean cuisine from the nearby water!

Lastly, for dinner, you can’t beat the Beati Paoli Restaurant or Trattoria Romana Zero Sei. These Italian restaurants are ideal for traditional Italian dishes, great glasses of wine, and good vibes.  

Upper Barrakka Gardens

Upper Barrakka Gardens – By C T Johansson – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=37271876

The Upper Barrakka Gardens is a part of one of the hundreds of monuments in Valletta, Malta’s Capital, that will truly take your breath away. Head here to check out the incredible buildings built by the Maltese Knights, such as the gardens and the St. John Co-Cathedral. Marvel at the Baroque design of the church before heading outside to see the views from the gardens to the Grand Harbor, Vittoriosa, and Kalkara. 

Collegiate Parish Church

Church of St Paul’s Shipwreck – By Hnapel – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=51672263

Can’t get enough of the Baroque and historical churches? We recommend heading to the Collegiate Parish Church of Saint Paul’s Shipwreck to marvel at the incredible exterior, pay respects to the father of Christianity in Malta, and gaze at the immaculately-decorated ceilings inside of the church. 

Blue Grotto

The grotto from outside – By Frank Vincentz – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=35686096

The Blue Grotto is a natural cave and arch that has become famous for its photo-op position, bright blue water, and incredible sea caves that are perfect for a half-day or full-day trip in the water. You head here and go swimming in the crystal blue water, go diving with local tour companies, and take a boat cruising tour to enjoy the relaxing atmosphere.