After delving into all the things to do in Valletta, from wandering through its baroque streets to visiting the majestic St. John’s Co-Cathedral, day trips from Valletta open up the rest of Malta’s treasures. These excursions offer a glimpse into the island’s diverse history, stunning landscapes, and unique cultural sites beyond the capital.
Exploring further from Valletta, you’ll find a wealth of things to do in Malta, ranging from the ancient temples of Ħaġar Qim to the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon on Comino. Each journey enriches your understanding of Malta’s rich tapestry of history and natural beauty.
Selecting where to stay in Valletta not only places you at the heart of Malta’s cultural epicenter but also provides a strategic base for embarking on these enlightening day trips. The right accommodation combines convenience with the charm of Valletta’s historical ambiance, ensuring a memorable stay on this enchanting island.
Discover Best Day Trips from Valletta, Malta
1. Mdina, Malta
Mdina, known as the “Silent City,” is a fortified medieval town with a mix of Norman and Baroque architecture. Stroll through its narrow, winding streets and visit the impressive St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Distance: Approximately 12 km
Travel Time: About 20-30 minutes by car or bus
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com), Bus (Busbud)
Main Attractions: Fortified medieval town, St. Paul’s Cathedral, narrow winding streets
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- St. Paul’s Cathedral: €5
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Mdina Gate, Cathedral Square, Bastion Viewpoint
Travel Tip: Visit Mdina during the evening to experience its charming streets beautifully lit up, offering a magical atmosphere.
2. Gozo, Malta
Gozo, Malta’s sister island, is known for its scenic hills, historic sites, and relaxed pace of life. Key attractions include the Citadella, Ramla Bay, and the ancient Ġgantija Temples.
Distance: Approximately 40 km (including ferry ride)
Travel Time: About 45-minute bus ride to Ċirkewwa + 25-minute ferry ride
Transportation: Bus (Busbud), Ferry
Main Attractions: Citadella, Ramla Bay, Ġgantija Temples
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Ġgantija Temples: €10
- Citadella: €5
Budget: Approximately €40-€70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Wied il-Mielaħ, Azure Window (collapsed site), Xlendi Bay
Travel Tip: Rent a car or scooter on Gozo for easier exploration of the island’s remote beaches and quaint villages.
3. Blue Grotto, Malta
The Blue Grotto is a series of sea caverns on the south coast of Malta, offering spectacular natural beauty. Enjoy a boat trip to witness the stunning blue waters and the play of light within the caves.
Distance: Approximately 13 km
Travel Time: About 25-30 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com), Bus (Busbud)
Main Attractions: Sea caverns, stunning blue waters, boat tours
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Boat Tour: €8
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Blue Grotto, Wied iż-Żurrieq, Sea Caverns
Travel Tip: Visit on a sunny morning for the best light conditions and calmer seas for the boat tour.
4. Marsaxlokk, Malta
Marsaxlokk is a traditional fishing village famous for its colorful luzzus (fishing boats) and Sunday fish market. The village is also known for its waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood.
Distance: Approximately 13 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by bus
Transportation: Bus (Busbud)
Main Attractions: Traditional fishing village, colorful luzzus, Sunday fish market
Best Time to Visit: Sunday mornings for the fish market
Entrance Fees:
- Free (market access)
Budget: Approximately €15-€30 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Marsaxlokk Harbor, St. Peter’s Pool, Waterfront Promenade
Travel Tip: Plan your visit on a Sunday to experience the bustling fish market, but arrive early to avoid crowds.
5. Tarxien Temples, Malta
The Tarxien Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are an important archaeological complex dating back to approximately 3600 BC. These temples offer a fascinating insight into Malta’s prehistoric past.
Distance: Approximately 6 km
Travel Time: About 15-20 minutes by car or bus
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com), Bus (Busbud)
Main Attractions: UNESCO World Heritage Site, prehistoric temples
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Tarxien Temples: €6
Budget: Approximately €20-€30 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Tarxien Temples, Surrounding Archaeological Sites
Travel Tip: Bring a hat and sunscreen as the site has limited shade, and consider hiring a guide for a more informative visit.
6. Sliema and St. Julian’s, Malta
Sliema and St. Julian’s are bustling towns known for their shopping, dining, and nightlife. Enjoy a stroll along the promenade, relax in cafés, and explore the numerous shops and boutiques.
Distance: Approximately 5 km
Travel Time: About 10-15 minutes by bus or ferry
Transportation: Bus (Busbud), Ferry
Main Attractions: Shopping, dining, nightlife, promenade
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Free (general access)
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Sliema Promenade, St. Julian’s Bay, Spinola Bay
Travel Tip: Try the local pastizzi at a café and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the St. Julian’s Bay area in the evening.
7. Dingli Cliffs, Malta
The Dingli Cliffs offer some of Malta’s most breathtaking views, especially at sunset. The cliffs are a great spot for hiking and provide panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Distance: Approximately 13 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Panoramic views, hiking trails, Mediterranean Sea views
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, especially at sunset
Entrance Fees:
- Free (general access)
Budget: Approximately €15-€30 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Dingli Cliffs, Chapel of St. Mary Magdalene, Walking Trails
Travel Tip: Visit at sunset for the most dramatic views, and be sure to stay on the marked paths for safety.
8. Mosta, Malta
Mosta is home to the impressive Rotunda of Mosta, a large parish church famous for its large dome, one of the largest in the world. The church is also known for the WWII bomb that pierced its dome but miraculously did not explode.
Distance: Approximately 9 km
Travel Time: About 20 minutes by car or bus
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com), Bus (Busbud)
Main Attractions: Rotunda of Mosta, WWII bomb site, neoclassical architecture
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Rotunda of Mosta: €5
Budget: Approximately €15-€30 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Mosta Dome, Mosta Square, Church Interior
Travel Tip: Visit the church during the day when the sunlight illuminates its impressive interior, and check out the replica of the unexploded bomb in the sacristy.
Plan Your Perfect Day Trip with Our Trusted Travel Partners
🚗 Find the Best Car Rental Deals with Rentalcars.com and GetRentacar.com
🏨 Discover the Best Accommodations with Booking.com
🌟 Discover Amazing Experiences with GetYourGuide.com and Tiqets.com
📶 Stay Connected with Airalo.com
FAQ About Best Day Trips from Valletta, Malta
What are some recommended day trips from Valletta?
Recommended day trips from Valletta include visiting the ancient city of Mdina, exploring the Blue Grotto, a boat trip to the island of Gozo, and touring the historic temples of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra.
Is a visit to Mdina a must-do from Valletta?
Absolutely! Mdina, known as the ‘Silent City’, is a medieval walled town with a rich history and stunning architecture. It’s a short drive from Valletta and offers a unique glimpse into Malta’s past.
Can I explore the Blue Grotto on a day trip?
Yes, the Blue Grotto, with its breathtaking sea caves and crystal-clear waters, is easily accessible for a day trip. Boat tours are available, offering a close-up view of this natural wonder.
What can I see on a day trip to Gozo?
Gozo, a charming island near Malta, offers beautiful beaches, the famous Ġgantija Temples, and the stunning Azure Window site. It’s a great place for history, nature, and relaxation.
Are there guided tours to Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples?
Yes, there are guided tours to these prehistoric temples, which are among the oldest religious sites on Earth. These tours offer insights into Malta’s ancient history and its early inhabitants.
Can I visit a traditional Maltese village from Valletta?
Definitely! Visiting traditional villages like Marsaxlokk, a picturesque fishing village, provides a glimpse into Maltese culture and lifestyle. It’s known for its colorful boats and vibrant fish market.
Is there a wine tasting experience near Valletta?
Malta is gaining recognition for its wines, and there are several vineyards near Valletta where you can enjoy wine tasting. These tours often include a tour of the vineyard and samples of local wines.
How can I explore the Maltese countryside from Valletta?
The Maltese countryside offers scenic walks and trails, particularly in the Dingli Cliffs area. It’s a great way to experience the natural beauty of Malta, with stunning views of the Mediterranean.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/valletta-l1195?activity_type=dayTrip
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended, at no extra cost to you.
