Planning a short trip to Malta? This 4-day Malta itinerary covers the best of the island — historic cities, dramatic sea cliffs, charming fishing villages, and the beautiful island of Gozo.
From wandering the golden streets of Valletta to exploring the medieval alleys of Mdina, and sailing past the sea caves of the Blue Grotto, this guide helps you experience Malta’s highlights in just four days.
Day 1: Valletta & The Three Cities – A Historic Start
Our Malta trip began in Valletta, the island’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage city built by the Knights of St. John.
Morning: St John’s Co-Cathedral
We started the day at the magnificent St John’s Co-Cathedral, one of the most impressive churches in Europe.
From the outside it looks fairly modest, but stepping inside reveals a spectacular baroque interior covered in gold, marble tombstones, and intricate carvings. The cathedral also houses famous paintings by Caravaggio, making it one of Valletta’s most important landmarks.
After exploring the cathedral, we took a short walk through Valletta’s historic streets and stopped for a mid-morning snack at Focacceria, a perfect place for coffee and a quick bite.
Late Morning: Valletta Walk
We continued exploring along Republic Street, the main artery of the city lined with shops, cafés, and historic buildings.
From there we walked to Lower Barrakka Gardens, a peaceful terrace overlooking the harbor — a perfect spot to take in the view of Malta’s famous golden fortifications.
Next we headed down the picturesque St. Ursula Street (33 Steps), one of Valletta’s most photogenic staircases, leading toward the waterfront.
Afternoon: Valletta Waterfront & The Three Cities
At the colorful Valletta Waterfront, historic warehouses have been converted into restaurants and cafés facing the marina.
From nearby Lascaris Wharf, we took a ferry across the harbor to explore the historic Three Cities.
The ferry arrives in Birgu (Vittoriosa), a charming maritime town with quiet streets and a beautiful marina.
Next we visited Senglea, where the highlight is Gardjola Gardens. The small watchtower here offers one of the best views of Valletta across the water.
We also explored nearby Cospicua, the largest and least touristy of the Three Cities.
Evening: Sunset Over the Grand Harbour
After returning to Valletta by ferry, we took the Barrakka Lift up to the famous Upper Barrakka Gardens.
Every afternoon around 4 PM, visitors gather here to watch the ceremonial cannon salute overlooking the magnificent Grand Harbour.
Watching the golden harbor light from this terrace was the perfect way to end the first day in Malta.
Day 2: Mdina, Rabat & Dingli Cliffs
The second day took us to Mdina, Malta’s ancient walled city known as the Silent City.
Morning: Wandering Mdina
Entering through the iconic Mdina Gate, the atmosphere instantly changes — quiet streets, medieval walls, and honey-colored buildings.
We explored beautiful corners including:
- Mesquita Square
- Triq Villegaignon
- St Paul’s Cathedral
- Bastion Square
For coffee and dessert, we stopped at Fontanella Tea Garden, famous for its terrace views.
Lunch
We had lunch at The Medina Restaurant, a charming restaurant set inside a historic courtyard.
Another great option nearby is Coogi’s Restaurant.
Afternoon: Rabat
From Mdina we walked into neighboring Rabat, where we visited the ancient St. Paul’s Catacombs.
Sunset: Dingli Cliffs
Later we headed to Dingli Cliffs, Malta’s highest point.
Near the cliffs stands the small St Mary Magdalene Chapel, dramatically overlooking the sea.
The sunset here was unforgettable.
Dinner back in Valletta was at Sotto Pinsa Romana, known for its delicious Roman-style pinsa.
Day 3: Gozo Day Trip
A visit to Gozo is one of the best experiences in Malta.
Morning: Popeye Village Viewpoint
On the way north we stopped at the viewpoint overlooking Popeye Village in Anchor Bay.
Ferry to Gozo
We took the ferry from Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal, which reaches Gozo in about 25 minutes.
Victoria & The Citadel
The capital Victoria is dominated by the historic Citadel, offering panoramic views across the island.
Lunch at Xlendi Bay
Lunch was at Terrazzo Restaurant in Xlendi Bay.
After lunch we walked up to Torri ta’ Xlendi for coastal views.
We also briefly visited Mġarr ix-Xini Bay, a secluded cove surrounded by cliffs.
Day 4: Blue Grotto & Marsaxlokk
Our final day focused on Malta’s southern coast.
Blue Grotto
We began at the famous Blue Grotto.
From the Blue Grotto Viewpoint, the limestone arch and turquoise water look spectacular. A short boat ride takes visitors inside the glowing sea caves.
Marsaxlokk
Later we visited Marsaxlokk, a colorful fishing village famous for its traditional luzzu boats.
Walking along the harbor was a relaxing way to spend the afternoon.
For lunch we stopped at Mr Fitz, which was a great way to end the trip.
Final Thoughts
Malta may be small, but it offers a rich combination of history, culture, and coastal beauty.
In four days we explored:
- The historic capital Valletta
- The medieval streets of Mdina
- The dramatic coastline of Gozo
- The sea caves of the Blue Grotto
- The charming fishing village of Marsaxlokk
For such a small island, Malta delivers an unforgettable travel experience.