best day trips in Malta, blue water, salt pans, sunset over fields, cliff window, Malta and Gozo

16 Epic Day Trips In Malta 2026

Want to find the best day trips in Malta for your next trip?

Well, you are absolutely in the right place!

With its amazing food, historic sites and blue waters, Malta offers something for everyone.

I have spent a lot of time in Malta and love how you can easily do multiple day trips on any budget or time frame!

But which Malta trips are the best?

Keep reading to find the 16 best places to visit in and from Malta in one day!

⛵️If you want to see all of Malta’s sites in one day, hire a private boat!

Mellieha is a must-visit location for anyone who plans to stay in Malta for a week

This is the best way to explore Malta with a local guide and enjoy the sunshine.

You can even make stops for snorkeling at your own private location! 🐠

Check Out The Best Private Boat Tour In Malta With A 5-Star Rating Here ⏎

1. Valletta

Day trips in Malta, Valletta- historic buildings, blue skies, sunset light, Valletta

Valletta, Malta’s capital city, is the perfect day trip for visitors looking to get a glimpse of Malta’s rich culture and history.

Whether you’re travelling as a couple or with your family, Valletta has something to offer everyone.

This is the best place to spend a weekend in Malta!

With everything conveniently located in one area, it’s easy to explore the city’s attractions in just one day. With so much to see you will not be bored, but make sure you visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral!

Valletta is great to visit all year round, however, it can get quite busy during the summer months.

You can easily reach the nearby Malta International Airport (MLA) in only 20 minutes from Valletta.

Its convenient location means that you also have easy access to ferry services to other nearby destinations such as Sliema and The Three Cities.

There are endless day tours from Valletta you can do during your getaway!

I Highly Recommend Booking THIS Tour In Valletta!

2. Comino And The Blue Lagoon

best day trips from Malta, Blue Lagoon- blue sea with steps into it, landmark with cliff and vegetation on it, Malta

If you’re looking for an easy, memorable day trip from Malta, then look no further than Comino, including Blue Lagoon!

This beautiful spot is well worth visiting for its crystal clear waters and incredible natural scenery.

Visiting can easily be done in a few hours and it’s best to do so late in the day or early morning to avoid the biggest crowds.

The Comino Blue Lagoon is a great spot for swimming and enjoying the sun, cooled down by its turquoise waters.

But if you’re looking to get in a little more adventure while you’re there, then book yourself onto a kayaking tour!

Renting a boat is a popular option when visiting so you have somewhere safe to keep your stuff and somewhere comfortable to rest.

There is a rocky area where you can leave all your belongings as you dive in but it gets really crowded!

🤿 Check Prices & Availability For The Blue Lagoon Here!

3. Sicily

best day tours from Malta, Sicily- cliff view over coast, blue sea, trees, Sicily Italy

Looking to explore beyond the beautiful Maltese islands in your spare time? Look no further than Sicily!

Many people try to decide between visiting Malta or Italy.

But in just a two-hour ferry ride away, you can experience the best of what Sicily has to offer- so you can do both!

Whether it’s shopping for handmade goods and souvenirs, feasting on delicious Italian cuisine or exploring ancient ruins, Sicily has something for everyone.

Make sure you take a great day bag for travelling so you can make the most of your Italian adventure!

The most popular places to stop by on your day tour are Syracuse (one of the oldest cities in Italy) Etna (the highest active volcano) and stunning Taormina.

You can get there by ferry and bus but if you want to make the most of it, book your own private transfer.

It will guarantee you get there faster, avoid the crowds and have a guide to help you see everything you want in a day!

And most of the public bus services mean you have to start your day at 4 AM 😴

✅ Check Out The 5 Star Malta To Sicily Trip Here!

4. Gozo

Day trips from Malta, Gozo- cliff side with green vegetation, bright blue water meander, sand beach at end, Gozo

If you’re looking for the perfect day trip destination, look no further than Malta’s beautiful island of Gozo!

With its stunning natural beauty, friendly locals, and plenty of things to do, there’s something for everyone here.

Even though it is on another Island, you can easily get to Gozo from the airport.

One of the most popular experiences is a jeep tour. You can explore the island’s rugged terrain as you get a feel for its unique culture, history, and environment.

It’s also the best way to discover Malta’s hidden gems and take in breathtaking views.

Check Out Prices & Availability For The Best Jeep Tour On Gozo Here!

When it comes to exploring, snorkelling and hiking, Gozo has plenty of options. There are numerous locations around the island that provide incredible spots for you!

Gozo is also a great place to stay for the night as well, so you can explore at your own pace. With plenty of cosy accommodations available, it’s easy to find a place that fits your needs, even without a car!

If you are looking for a day trip or a weekend away in Malta, Gozo is the place to be.

5. Marsaxlokk

best day trips in Malta, Marsaxlokk. harbour, blue and yellow boat, dock, Malta

If you’re looking for a bit of Maltese charm, then Marsaxlokk is one of the best excursions in Malta.

This picturesque fishing village located on the south coast of the island offers visitors a chance to explore its colourful boats and bustling market along its waterfront.

The colourful boats that dot the waterfront are the traditional boats used by the Maltese fishermen. These are not commonly found around the Island so is worth visiting to see them!

If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, then you can easily reach St.Peterspool from Marsaxlokk.

In a few hours, you’ll be able to easily see all the sights that this charming village has to offer. With its beautiful boats, the local market and nearby attractions, Marsaxlokk is definitely worth a visit during your stay in Malta!

6. Three Cities

best malta day tours, Three Cities, narrow street, stone buildings, Malta

One of the best ways to take it all the incredible views Malta has to offer is by visiting the Three Cities of Vittoriosa, Cospicua and Senglea.

These fortified cities lie at the heart of Malta’s historic centre, and a day trip to visit all three is one of the most popular things to do when visiting Malta.

These cities are incredibly beautiful, especially at night. So a great way to spend your time here is by taking an evening stroll around each city.

There are so many amazing things to do here and lots to learn so I highly recommend booking a tour so you do not miss anything!

There are so many day tours in Malta you can do, but the Three Cities is a must!

🍷Explore The Three Cities With Local Wine Here!

7. St Julian’s

best day trips in Malta, St Julians, tall buildings, blue harbour, yellow boats, Malta

Malta is an island filled with amazing things to see and do, but if you’re looking for a day trip that won’t take up your entire vacation, St Julian’s is the perfect spot.

This busy town has plenty of Mediterranean charm, making it one of the most popular destinations on the Island.

And with plenty of hotels, restaurants and access to the rest of Malta, it is one of the most loved places for travellers to stay.

Spinola Bay is a great spot to visit in St Julian’s. This picturesque bay is great for swimming and has some great views!

And when you get hungry, you’ll be in luck because St Julian’s is home to many excellent restaurants with delicious local dishes to try.

8. Popeyes Village

best malta trip in a day, Popeyes Village- blue water, pink and blue colourful roofed buildings, Malta

If you’re looking for a unique adventure that’s perfect for the whole family, Popeye Village in Malta is an ideal day trip.

this ‘village’ was once used as the filming location for the beloved 1980 film Popeye starring Robin Williams.

Not only is Popeye Village an interesting place that film enthusiasts will love, but it also offers incredible views of the bay!

There are plenty of great things to do here, I highly recommend the boat trip. And the staff there are incredibly friendly and helpful, so they’ll be sure to make your visit even more enjoyable.

If you’re visiting Malta during the summer season, Popeye Village may get quite busy – but it’s still worth a visit for the beautiful views and it guarantees all the attractions are open!

➡️ Visit Popeye’s Village & Surrounding Area On This Ultimate Tour!

9. Mellieha

best day tours in Malta, Mellieha- wine glasses, water glasses, table, seaview, Malta

Malta is known for its stunning shorelines and bustling resorts, so why not add Mellieha to your itinerary?

Located just north of St. Julian’s, Mellieha makes for a great day trip if you want to take in some local culture and enjoy a tasty meal by the sea.

This is a really popular stop on a Malta road trip because there are plenty of things to do like Popeyes Village and Agatha’s Tower!

The beaches of Għadira Bay and Golden Bay make this the perfect Maltese day trip for beach lovers!

Both are accessible by public transport and are perfect for swimming, snorkelling or just relaxing in the sun.

Mellieha Hill is also a great spot to visit as offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. It is even better at sunset!

Whether you’re looking for a day at the beach or a long day of sightseeing, there’s something to suit everyone here.

10. Paradise Bay

best day trips from Malta, Paradise Bay- sand beach, blue clear water with rocks underneath, Malta

If you’re looking for a picture-perfect day trip on your holiday in Malta, look no further than Paradise Bay!

This beach is one of the island’s most stunning, with tranquil turquoise waters and a lovely sandy shoreline that’s perfect for all ages.

During the summer season, it is wise to get there early in the day to make sure you have enough space and avoid crowds.

But once you get there, Paradise Bay is well worth it!

You can rent out an umbrella or sunbed if you want to relax and soak up some Mediterranean sunshine. However, if you plan on spending your day exploring the waters, it’s a lot cheaper if you don’t!

11. Mdina

day tour Malta, Mdina- blue sky, tall stone walls, alley arch, Malta

Mdina is a must-visit spot for any Malta day trips!

This ancient walled city offers an incredible day out exploring its winding streets, taking in the captivating architecture, and admiring the breathtaking views of the island from its vantage points.

With over 4000 years of history, there’s plenty to discover in the old town of Mdina. Take a stroll through the city’s narrow streets and explore its palaces, churches, museums and other historic sites.

You can even take a guided tour to learn more about this incredible place.

Once you’ve explored the city centre, make sure to head up to the walls of the city for a stunning panoramic view of Malta.

Mdina is the perfect day trip from any part of the island and it’s easy to get around using public transport connections!

😍 I Highly Recommend Booking THIS Food Tour When Visiting Mdina!

12. The Dingli Cliffs

best day trips in Malta, The Dingli Cliffs- cliff church, Malta

For something a little more off the beaten track, one of the best day trips in Malta is to the Dingli Cliffs!

Located at the westernmost point of the island, these impressive cliffs provide stunning sea views, especially during sunset.

The cliffs provide a great spot to take a leisurely stroll while admiring the landscape – there’s something truly magical about being surrounded by nature and taking in the breathtaking views.

Spring and autumn are particularly good times to visit, but any time of year is worth making the trip!

A highlight of the cliffs is St Mary Magdalene Chapel, located right on the edge overlooking the sea. It is a great place to take pictures or just admire the views!

13. Saint Agatha’s Tower

day tours in Malta, the red tower- red castle, sandy floor, Malta

Visiting Saint Agatha’s Tower is a fantastic day trip for all in Malta!

This well-restored first is situated on a hill, offering some of the best 360 views across the island.

The friendly staff are always willing to answer any questions you may have and provide you with plenty of information about the history of the tower.

The castle is surrounded by a huge car park, making it the perfect stop if you are spending the day sightseeing.

Whether you’re looking to spend an hour or two exploring the grounds or all day taking in the breathtaking views, you can be sure that Saint Agatha’s Tower has something for everyone!

14. St Paul’s Bay

top day trips from Malta, St Paul's Bay- blue sea, small open cliffs, Malta

For a day of relaxation and adventure, look no further than St Paul’s Bay.

This picturesque area in Malta boasts stunning views that can’t be found anywhere else on the island.

With its winding alleyways, rugged coastlines and plenty of places to go swimming and snorkelling, St Paul’s Bay is the perfect place for a day excursion.

The beauty of St Paul’s Bay is that it hasn’t been taken over by tourists like some other areas on the island.

Although it’s still a popular destination, you can be sure to get a peaceful and charming experience without the hustle and bustle of tourist hotspots.

15. Rabat

day trip in Malta, Rabat, cobbled streets, rustic stone buildings, Gozo

If you’re looking for great day trips in Malta, look no further than Rabat.

This charming city is full of interesting places to explore and makes for a truly unforgettable experience!

Make sure you walk around the Catacombs of St Paul & St Agatha. These incredible catacombs are a testament to Malta’s rich history and culture, so don’t forget your camera!

For visiting historical sites, make sure you have dressed appropriately for Europe or they may not allow you to visit.

Afterwards, take a stroll through the narrow winding streets and discover hidden gems like the beautiful Santa Domenica Church.

The local cafes are full of delicious Maltese treats so the perfect stop after all your walking!

📸 Book Your Rabat Walking Tour Here!

16. Tunis

day tours from Malta, Tunis- brown door, white background, Tunis

For a change of pace from Malta, one of the day trips from Malta you can do is to Tunis, Tunisia.

This stunning city is located on the Mediterranean coast of Northwest Africa and is full of culture and delicious food.

The quickest way to get here is by flying for 1 hour but you can also take a ferry but it takes a lot more time.

This ancient city is a fantastic place to visit with its winding alleyways and grand mosques.

With its colourful markets you will find the best souvenirs, so remember to take a lightweight suitcase with you!

Don’t forget to also sample some of Tunis’s delicious food, you’ll find lots of mouthwatering dishes around the city to choose from.

Faqs About Day Trips From Malta

How can I spend a day in Malta?

There are many great places to spend a day in Malta. To make your one day unforgettable, here are the best spots:

Valletta
Marsaxlokk
Dingli Cliffs
The Three Cities
Mellieha
Paradise Bay

If you rent a car during your trip to Malta you can see a lot more sites than if you use public transport.

Is 2 days enough for Malta?

Two days is a good amount of time to visit Malta, especially if you hire a car.

However, if you want to fully experience the Island in all its glory and visit other Islands like Gozo, 5-7 days is recommended.

Can you walk around Malta in a day?

You can easily explore many locations on foot throughout Malta. However, if you want to explore the amazing hikes available to you, spend 2-3 days so you can fully experience the amazing landscape.

Is it a good idea to rent a car in Malta?

Even though Malta has decent public transport, renting a car is always a good idea.

It will allow you to explore more remote places, beat the tourist crowds and save a lot of money.

You can even take your rental car on the ferry to Gozo so you can continue exploring!

Is it easy to get around Malta without a car?

For those who do not drive or do not want to rent a car on their trip to Malta, getting around the Island without a car is pretty easy.

The Island is fairly small and there are lots of great public transport options linking many attractions around Malta, Gozo and Comino.

The Best Day Trips In Malta Sign off

Malta has so many reasons to visit, and great day trips are one of them!

Even if you only have a few hours on the Island, you can see so much and enjoy the delights of Malta.

From remote beaches to historical sites, there are so many great day trips Malta can offer across the Island that will make your holiday unforgettable.

I hope this list full of highlights of Malta helped you find the perfect spots for your Malta trip.

But if you can’t decide which one is best for you, book a private tour and have a guide take you to all the hot spots in one day!

I hope you found this article useful! Here are some more useful posts to make your trip to Malta the best:

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