The Mediterranean island nation of Malta packs a lot of punch for its tiny size. With over 7,000 years of history, superb scuba diving, a thriving nightlife scene, and architecture influenced by the Phoenicians, Moors, knights of St. John, French, and British, Malta has something to offer every type of traveler.
While you could easily spend a week or more fully exploring Malta, you can see the highlights in just 3 days if you plan your time wisely.
This 3 day Malta itinerary will help you maximize your precious vacation time by guiding you to the very best of Malta’s sights, activities, culture, cuisine, and hidden gems. Follow this Malta 3 day itinerary to uncover this fascinating country in just a long weekend.
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Table of Contents
Day 1: Discover Valletta and Mdina/Rabat
Despite the fact that you have 3 days in Malta, you will feel as if you are constantly short on time. This 3 days in Malta itinerary is planned such that you manage to cover most of the highlights while allowing yourself a chance to enjoy yourself.
Morning: Explore Valletta
Start your first day by exploring Malta’s small but dynamic capital of Valletta. Valletta packs a lot of attractions into its tiny peninsula that juts into the Grand Harbour.
Spend the morning wandering the narrow streets and admiring the Baroque palaces, bustling squares, and magnificent 320+ churches.
The old buildings in Valetta harbor with a view of the sea is one of the cool places to visit during your 3 days in Malta itinerary.
Be sure to see the following top sights in Valletta:
- St. John’s Co-Cathedral: This elaborately decorated Catholic cathedral houses Caravaggio’s largest canvas, “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist”.
- Grandmaster’s Palace: Tour this opulent 16th century palace to view suits of armor, weaponry, and art.
- Upper Barrakka Gardens: Stop to enjoy panoramic views over the Grand Harbour from these formal gardens.
Grab an excellent flat white coffee and a traditional pastizzi (savory pastry) from one of the hole-in-the-wall cafés dotting Old Town’s streets.
Top Tours In Valletta To Consider
Afternoon: Mdina and Rabat
After exploring Valletta in the morning, spend your afternoon discovering two of Malta’s most historic towns: Mdina and Rabat.
Nicknamed the “Silent City”, Mdina is one of Europe’s finest examples of an ancient walled city. It is something that you should not miss during your 3 days in Malta.
Walk the narrow winding streets to see elegant palaces, churches, and grand fortified walls. Don’t miss the breathtaking views over most of Malta from the city walls.
Mdina is one of the cool places that should be on your list during your 3 days in Malta.
The neighboring town of Rabat was built following Mdina’s period as Malta’s capital. Rabat’s attractions include St. Paul’s Grotto, the Roman Villa, and St Paul’s Catacombs. See archaeological remains and wander through early Christian underground tombs.
Other top sights include the Cathedral Museum with religious artifacts and the Domus Romana museum housed in a Roman townhouse.
Evening: Valletta at Night
A number of different Maltese dishes should be a part of 3 days in Malta.
Spend your evening back in Valletta appreciating the city’s enchanting atmosphere after dark. The city lights up at night for a lively nightlife scene centered around Old Town.
Stroll Republic Street and side alleys to find bustling restaurants, wine bars, and cafés, many with outdoor seating. Sample delicious Mediterranean small plates and Maltese wines as you people-watch.
Stop for a drink on bustling St. Ursula Street, then head to St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the Grandmaster’s Palace, gloriously illuminated at night.
End your evening sipping a cocktail on a Valletta rooftop bar overlooking the twinkling Grand Harbor— the perfect way to toast your first day in Malta!
Day 2: Comino Island
For your second day, visit Malta’s smallest inhabited island of Comino for some time out on the sea and a chance to experience The Blue Lagoon: one of Malta’s most famous spots.
At just 3.5 square kilometers, tiny Comino can be explored in a day. But its dazzling Blue Lagoon makes it a must-visit to swim, snorkel and relax oceanside.
Morning Boat Trip
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5 (697 Reviews) Price: $26.90 per person Duration: 7 hours 📍Meeting Point: Hornblower Cruises Details: Read more on Viator!
The only way to reach Comino is by boat, so start by booking a boat tour of the island. Tours depart from either Malta or Gozo and make stops around Comino to see top sights like the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, Santa Maria Caves, and more.
Most tours allow time for swimming and snorkeling during the stops. The Blue Lagoon’s crystal clear turquoise waters and white sand seabed make it a top spot for swimming and snorkeling. See schools of fish and other marine life up close.
“We took the boat and enjoyed every second. Good music, good cocktails and the best sunset of the 5 we saw in the island.
Also Blue Lagoon was so crowded in the morning, but about 17h it was a nice place to stay, because most people spent the day and already left at that time. Would repeat for sure! Nice skipper too :)”
Anna (read more reviews now!)
Boats also cruise by the striking naturally arched landmark the Wied il-Mielah Window. There are only two permanent residents on Comino, so expect a quiet atmosphere.
Afternoon in the Blue Lagoon
After your boat tour, you can choose to disembark at the Blue Lagoon and spend the afternoon lounging at the beach there. It is after all one of the top attractions that should be on your bucket list for your 3 days in Malta.
The lagoon is sheltered by the island making its shallow, calm waters ideal for swimming and soaking up the sunshine.
Relax on the sun chairs lining the lagoon or grab lunch at the Blue Lagoon Café overlooking the beach. Sip a cold Cisk beer and let your worries slip away for an afternoon in paradise. Take one last swim before the return boat transfer.
You could also choose to take a sunset cruise in the Blue Lagoon which is a great way to relax and enjoy the scenery when the sun is not at full mast.
Day 3: Marsaxlokk, Marsaskala & Popeye Village
Spend your last day exploring Marsaxlokk fishing village and Marsaskala seaside town along Malta’s southeastern coast. Then visit the unique Popeye Village movie set.
Morning: Mariaxlokk Fishing Village
Dedicate your final morning to exploring some of Malta’s charming coastal towns and villages. Trust me, this is one of the highlights of this 3 days in Malta itinerary.
Start by visiting the photogenic fishing village of Marsaxlokk. This tranquil town is home to Malta’s most iconic row of colorful, traditional fishing boats that make for stunning photos.
Wander the harbor rimmed with excellent seafood restaurants and watch the fishermen haul in the morning catch. Peek inside the town’s open air market and sample local seafood like lampuki (mahi mahi) and ṣipp (sea bream).
Afternoon: Marsaskala Seaside Town
Work your way around the coast to Marsaskala, a popular resort town situated on a long bay. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the promenade or rocky beach. After all a 3 days in Malta itinerary should include a bit of R&R.
For spectacular views over the entire bay, stop for lunch on the rooftop restaurant at Cavalieri Hotel.
Marsaskala is known for fantastic water sports, so try your hand at kayaking, paddle boarding, or windsurfing for an active afternoon. Or simply unwind oceanside at one of the seaside cafés before the short drive back to Valletta.
Popeye Village
⭐️ Rating: 4/5 (85 Reviews) Price: $17.22 per person Duration: 1-8 hours 📍Meeting Point: Popeye Village Details: Read more on Viator!
On your drive back to Valletta, stop to see the colorful village of Popeye in Mellieħa Bay. This quirky village was purpose-built as the film set for the 1980 musical “Popeye” starring Robin Williams.
Today, Popeye Village operates as an open-air museum and family fun park.
“Great place. Lots to do. Obstacle course in the sea & kids splash pool were the highlights. Easy to get an Uber to & from if needed. Staff helpful & enthusiastic. Can spend the full day there if you want to do all activities”
Keyy (read more reviews now!)
Walk through the detailed village with its boat-shaped houses, Olive Oyl’s house, Swee’Pea’s nursery, and more. You can even meet the Popeye characters!
Let kids enjoy the shows and activities or tour the mini museum to see props and photos from the movie production. It’s a unique attraction that brings a piece of film history to life.
After exploring Popeye Village, it’s just a short drive back to Valletta to wrap up your amazing 3 days in Malta!
You’ve just experienced the top highlights of Malta in an unforgettable 3 days! This itinerary shows you how to maximize a short visit to Malta by prioritizing the country’s very best.
Planning Your 3 Days in Malta
To make the most of your 3 days in Malta, advance planning is essential. Here are some tips to keep in mind when planning your Malta itinerary:
Getting Around Malta
Malta is a small country and if you are going to plan your 3 days in Malta itinerary, you need to understand how the transport system functions. The truth is having a car allows flexibility to efficiently explore the main island of Malta and neighboring Gozo. Renting a car for pickup at Malta International Airport takes the hassle out of getting around.
Public buses are cheaper but have limited service to some top attractions.
Where To Stay In Malta
Where will you stay in 3 days in Malta? For convenience, look for accommodation in Valletta to minimize travel time each morning. Boutique hotels and rental apartments are available directly in the city center.
If renting a car, staying outside Valletta offers more flexibility. Consider resort towns like Sliema, St Julian’s, and Mellieha. For proximity to Gozo ferries, stay in Cirkewwa.
Ferry logistics To Comino Island
Take the car ferry from Cirkewwa to the Blue Lagoon on Comino Island. You don’t need to book Comino ferry tickets in advance. Frequent crossings run all day until around 10pm.
The journey takes just 25 minutes each way. Factor in waiting and loading times when planning your Comino day.
Getting To Mdina
Mdina sits inland rather than along the coast, so getting there requires alternative transport from Valletta:
- Rental Car – The most direct way. Only a 30-minute drive from Valletta to Mdina. Parking is available outside the walled city.
- Taxi – Taxis can be arranged from Valletta to Mdina. Agree on a price before setting off.
- Public Bus – Buses connect Valletta to Mdina but involve transfers. Less direct than driving yourself.
What To Pack For Malta
When planning your 3 days in Malta, it is also important to pack right. Ideally pack light layers and clothes that dry quickly and make sure to bring along sun protection. Walking shoes or sandals are ideal for exploring the cities. Don’t forget to bring along a swimsuit and beach gear for swimming and water activities.
Malta Travel Tips
And before wind up, I have a few additional travel tips for your 3 days in Malta itinerary:
- Reserve any “must-do” activities like popular boat tours in advance.
- Stock up on water and snacks. Many smaller shops close midday.
- Malta uses British-style 3-prong plugs so bring an adapter.
- As a Catholic country, avoid visiting churches during mass times.
- Try scheduling Valletta for a Sunday when other cities are very quiet.
With strategic planning using these Malta travel tips, you can make the best of your 3 days in Malta!
Malta 3 Day Itinerary FAQs
What Can You Do In Malta In 3 days?
In 3 days you can explore Valletta’s top sights like St John’s Co-Cathedral and Grandmaster’s Palace, day trip to Gozo to see megalithic temples and scenic bays, and spend time in seaside towns like Marsaxlokk and Marsaskala for local flavor.
How Many Days Do You Need In Malta?
While you can see Malta’s highlights in 3 days, 5-7 days allows a more relaxed pace to immerse in the history and culture. It gives time to explore further afield to Mdina, the south coast, and Comino.
What Is The Best Area To Stay In Malta For 3 days?
Valletta is the best area to stay to maximize sightseeing. It puts you centrally located near top attractions. Otherwise resort towns like Sliema, St Julians or Mellieha work well for their dining and nightlife options.
Do You Need A Car In Malta For 3 days?
Having a car allows maximum flexibility for efficient sightseeing. But Malta’s small size means you can see the main highlights by public bus or tours booked from a base like Valletta.
How Do You Get From Valletta To Gozo?
From Valletta, take a bus to the Cirkewwa ferry terminal in the north. Ferries to Gozo run frequently from Cirkewwa to Mgarr Harbour on Gozo, taking only 25 minutes.
What Is Malta’s Weather Like?
Malta enjoys pleasant Mediterranean weather year-round. But July through September are the hottest, driest months. In winter, expect some rain but still moderate temperatures.
What Is There To Do In Gozo For A Day?
In a day you can see Gozo highlights like the Ggantija temples, scenic bays at Xlendi and Ramla, the capital Victoria, and the fallen Azure Window. Enjoy the slower rural island pace.
How Do I Plan The Perfect 3 Days In Malta?
Plan your route efficiently. Make sure to focus on the top sights like Valletta and Gozo. Stay centrally in Valletta and use ferries, buses or rent a car. It is also important to mix tourist sights with local experiences like Marsaxlokk Sunday market.
