After soaking up the vibrant atmosphere and enjoying the things to do in St. Julian’s, Malta, from its bustling nightlife to the picturesque Spinola Bay, day trips from St. Julian’s offer a wonderful opportunity to explore Malta’s rich history and stunning landscapes. These excursions allow you to discover the island’s diverse attractions, from ancient megalithic temples to serene blue lagoons, extending your adventure beyond the lively streets of St. Julian’s.
Venturing beyond St. Julian’s, you’ll find a treasure trove of things to do in Malta, where history and natural beauty coalesce. From the silent city of Mdina with its timeless streets to the awe-inspiring cliffs of Dingli, each destination invites you to delve deeper into the island’s captivating story.
Choosing where to stay in St. Julian’s is crucial for visitors aiming to enjoy both the local scene and the ease of exploring Malta’s myriad attractions. A well-located accommodation provides not only a gateway to St. Julian’s entertainment options but also convenient access to the rest of the island, making every day trip a seamless adventure.
Discover Best Day Trips from St. Julian’s, Malta
1. Valletta, Malta
Valletta, Malta’s capital city, is rich in history and culture, featuring Baroque architecture, museums, and the stunning St. John’s Co-Cathedral. Its streets are an open-air museum, perfect for exploring on foot.
Distance: Approximately 10 km
Travel Time: About 15-20 minutes by car or bus
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com), Bus (Busbud)
Main Attractions: Baroque architecture, St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Upper Barrakka Gardens
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- St. John’s Co-Cathedral: €15
- Upper Barrakka Gardens: Free
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Upper Barrakka Gardens, Valletta Waterfront
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the Saluting Battery at Upper Barrakka Gardens at noon or 4 PM.
2. Mdina, Malta
Mdina, known as the “Silent City,” is a fortified medieval town exuding a timeless atmosphere with its narrow streets and ancient architecture. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts and photographers.
Distance: Approximately 13 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by car or bus
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com), Bus (Busbud)
Main Attractions: Medieval architecture, narrow streets, St. Paul’s Cathedral
Best Time to Visit: Evening for fewer crowds and illuminated streets
Entrance Fees:
- St. Paul’s Cathedral: €5
- Mdina Dungeons: €3
Budget: Approximately €20-€35 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Cathedral Square, Mdina Walls
Travel Tip: Visit Mdina in the evening when the city lights up and the streets become less crowded, offering a more intimate experience.
3. Gozo, Malta
Gozo, Malta’s sister island, is known for its scenic hills, serene beaches, and the Ġgantija Temples. It offers a more rural and tranquil experience compared to the main island.
Distance: Approximately 30 km to Ċirkewwa + 25-minute ferry ride
Travel Time: About 45 minutes to Ċirkewwa by car, plus a 25-minute ferry ride
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com), Ferry
Main Attractions: Ġgantija Temples, Ramla Bay, Victoria (Rabat)
Best Time to Visit: Spring and Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Ġgantija Temples: €10
- Gozo Ferry: €4.65 (round trip, pedestrian)
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Ramla Bay, Azure Window (remains)
Travel Tip: Rent a car or scooter on Gozo to explore hidden beaches and villages at your own pace.
4. Blue Grotto, Malta
The Blue Grotto, a series of sea caverns on the south coast of Malta, is famous for its dazzling blue waters and breathtaking natural formations. Boat trips into the grotto are a popular activity.
Distance: Approximately 15 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Sea caverns, boat trips, vibrant blue waters
Best Time to Visit: Morning for the best light
Entrance Fees:
- Boat Trip: €8-€10
Budget: Approximately €15-€30 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Blue Grotto, nearby cliffs
Travel Tip: The best time for a boat trip is in the morning when the sunlight makes the water glow a vibrant blue.
5. Marsaxlokk, Malta
Marsaxlokk, a traditional fishing village, is renowned for its colorful luzzus (fishing boats), seafood restaurants, and the bustling Sunday market selling local crafts and foods.
Distance: Approximately 12 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Traditional fishing boats (luzzus), seafood restaurants, Sunday market
Best Time to Visit: Sunday morning for the market
Entrance Fees:
- Free (market access)
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Marsaxlokk Harbour, nearby St. Peter’s Pool
Travel Tip: Plan your visit on a Sunday to experience the vibrant market but arrive early to avoid crowds.
6. Sliema, Malta
Sliema is a bustling town known for its shopping centers, restaurants, and a long promenade perfect for leisurely walks with views of Valletta across the water.
Distance: Approximately 3 km
Travel Time: About 5-10 minutes by car or a 20-minute walk
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com), Walk
Main Attractions: Shopping centers, restaurants, promenade, harbor cruises
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Harbor Cruise: €15-€20
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Sliema Promenade, views of Valletta and the Three Cities
Travel Tip: Enjoy a harbor cruise from Sliema to see Valletta and the Three Cities from a different perspective.
7. Dingli Cliffs, Malta
Dingli Cliffs offer some of the most spectacular views in Malta, especially at sunset. The cliffs are a great spot for hiking and photography, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
Distance: Approximately 15 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Spectacular cliffs, hiking, photography, sunset views
Best Time to Visit: Sunset
Entrance Fees:
- Free
Budget: Approximately €15-€25 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Dingli Cliffs, nearby Chapel of St. Mary Magdalene
Travel Tip: Visit at sunset for breathtaking views and bring along a picnic to enjoy on the cliffside.
8. Mosta, Malta
Mosta, famous for the Rotunda of Mosta, a church with one of the world’s largest unsupported domes, is a quiet town steeped in history and culture.
Distance: Approximately 8 km
Travel Time: About 20 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Rotunda of Mosta (Santa Marija Assunta), historical sites
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Rotunda of Mosta: €2
Budget: Approximately €15-€30 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Mosta Rotunda, Mosta Square
Travel Tip: Try to visit the Rotunda during a service to experience its acoustics and atmosphere fully.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from St. Julian’s, Malta
What are the best day trips from St. Julian’s, Malta?
Popular day trips from St. Julian’s include Valletta, Mdina, the Blue Grotto, and the sister islands of Gozo and Comino.
Is a visit to Valletta worth it from St. Julian’s?
Absolutely! Valletta, the capital city of Malta, is known for its rich history, baroque architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and easily accessible from St. Julian’s.
Can I take a boat trip to Comino from St. Julian’s?
Yes, boat trips to Comino, famous for its crystal-clear waters and the Blue Lagoon, are available. It’s a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation.
Are there guided tours to Mdina from St. Julian’s?
Guided tours to Mdina, the old capital of Malta, are available. Mdina is known for its medieval and baroque architecture, quiet streets, and panoramic views of the island.
What natural sights can I see on a day trip from St. Julian’s?
The Blue Grotto, with its sea caves and clear azure waters, is a natural wonder not to be missed. Boat tours allow visitors to explore these fascinating formations up close.
Is a trip to the fishing village of Marsaxlokk recommended?
Definitely! Marsaxlokk is a picturesque fishing village known for its colorful boats, traditional markets, and fresh seafood. It offers a glimpse into the local Maltese lifestyle.
Can I explore the ancient temples near St. Julian’s on a day trip?
Yes, the prehistoric Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples are a short drive from St. Julian’s. These UNESCO-listed megalithic temples provide a unique look into Malta’s ancient history.
Are there wine tasting tours in the region around St. Julian’s?
Malta has a growing wine industry, and several wineries near St. Julian’s offer tastings. These tours offer an insight into local winemaking and include samples of unique Maltese wines.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/st-julian-s-l91116?activity_type=dayTrip
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