Malta is one of my favorite spots in the world. My family and I lived there for about 6 months, so we were able to see just about everything. For those who may not be familiar, Malta is a stunning Mediterranean archipelago and is a perfect mix of history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Whether you're a history buff, a beach lover, or a foodie, Malta offers something for everyone. If you have three days to explore, here’s a well-rounded itinerary to make the most of your trip.

Day 1: Discover Valletta and the Three Cities

Morning: Exploring Valletta

Start your day in Malta’s capital, Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site brimming with history and stunning Baroque architecture.

• St. John’s Co-Cathedral – A must-visit, featuring Caravaggio’s famous paintings and an incredibly ornate interior.
• Upper Barrakka Gardens – Enjoy breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour.
• Grandmaster’s Palace – If open to the public, explore the State Rooms and the Armory.

Lunch:

Head to Caffe Cordina, one of Malta’s oldest cafés, for traditional pastizzi (flaky pastry filled with ricotta or peas) and a refreshing Kinnie (a local bittersweet soda).

Afternoon: The Three Cities

Take a short ferry ride across the Grand Harbour to Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua.

• Fort St. Angelo – A historic fortress with stunning views.
• Inquisitor’s Palace – Learn about Malta’s past during the Inquisition era.
• Traditional Boat Tour – Hop on a dgħajsa (Maltese gondola) for a unique perspective of the harbors.

Evening:

Dine at Rampila, a restaurant set within Valletta’s bastions, offering excellent Mediterranean cuisine with romantic views.

Day 2: Mdina, Rabat, and the Dingli Cliffs

Morning: The Silent City of Mdina

• Walk through Mdina’s narrow streets – This ancient walled city (over 4000 years old) is filled with medieval and Baroque architecture. No cars are allowed in the city so it’s deemed “the Silent City.” It is one of the best preserved medieval towns in all of Europe.
• St. Paul’s Cathedral and Museum – A fascinating look into Malta’s religious heritage.
• Palazzo Falson – A beautifully preserved noble residence with antique collections. Get a taste of what life was like for the richest residents.

Lunch:

Enjoy a meal at Fontanella Tea Garden, famous for its cakes and incredible panoramic views over Malta.

Afternoon: Rabat and Dingli Cliffs

• St. Paul’s Catacombs – An underground necropolis showcasing Malta’s early Christian history.
• Dingli Cliffs – The highest point in Malta, offering spectacular sea views. Consider taking a short walk along the coastline for sunset views.

Evening:

Head to Guzé Bistro in Valletta for a cozy dinner featuring traditional Maltese dishes like rabbit stew and seafood pasta.

Day 3: Gozo and the Blue Lagoon

Morning: Exploring Gozo

Take the ferry from Ċirkewwa to Gozo (about 25 minutes).

• Victoria & The Citadel – A fortified city with panoramic views and historical sites.
• Ta’ Pinu Basilica – A stunning church with a rich spiritual history.
• Xlendi or Marsalforn – Small fishing villages perfect for a coffee break by the sea.

Lunch:

Try a local dish at Ta’ Rikardu, a charming restaurant in Victoria known for its homemade cheese and Gozitan platters.

Afternoon: Blue Lagoon on Comino

• Take a boat from Gozo or Malta to Comino, home to the breathtaking Blue Lagoon.
• Spend a few hours swimming in the crystal-clear turquoise waters or relaxing on the rocky shores.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, explore the Santa Marija Caves nearby.

Evening:

Return to Malta and finish your trip with dinner at Tartarun, a top-notch seafood restaurant in Marsaxlokk, Malta’s famous fishing village.

Final Tips for Your Malta Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer great weather and fewer crowds. Summers can be a bit too hot for me.
• Getting Around: Public buses are available, but renting a car or hiring a driver makes exploring easier. Parking can be tricky, but you can usually find a place to park and walk around.
• Local Currency: Malta uses the Euro (€).
• Language: English is widely spoken as it’s an official language, making it easy for U.S. travelers to navigate. “Maltese” is a unique mix of Italian, Arabic, and English.

With this itinerary, you’ll get a mix of history, nature, and local experiences, making your three-day trip to Malta truly unforgettable. Enjoy your journey!