Want to know the best places to go when you only have 48 hours in Malta?
This guide is for you!
With its blue waters, ancient cities and epic weather all year round, it’s hard not to fall in love with Malta.
The great thing about this destination is that no matter if you are spending 2 days or 2 weeks here, you will not run out of things to do.
To help you have the best trip here, let’s take a look at how to spend 2 days in Malta
Day 1: Exploring Valletta and the Three Cities
Morning
Breakfast at Caffe Cordina: Start your day with a hearty Maltese breakfast at Caffe Cordina, a historic café in Valletta.
St. John’s Co-Cathedral: Explore this stunning cathedral known for its Baroque architecture and rich history. Don’t miss Caravaggio’s painting, “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist.”
Tip: As this is a religious building remember to dress appropriately. This means no hats and dressing modestly.
Late Morning
Upper Barrakka Gardens: Enjoy panoramic views of the Grand Harbour from this beautiful garden. Catch the Noon Gun salute if you’re there around noon.
Tip: This is one of the most popular spots in Valletta for visitors so visiting before 12:30 pm is the best way to avoid the crowds.
Lunch at Prego: Head to Prego for a delicious lunch with Mediterranean flavours.
Afternoon:
Grand Master’s Palace: Visit the Grand Master’s Palace, home to the President’s office and the Palace State Rooms.
Tip: Explore the impressive halls and chambers and learn more about Malta’s history. The entry here is around €12.
National Museum of Archaeology: Dive into Malta’s prehistory and ancient history through artefacts at this museum.
Tip: You only need to spend an hour or two here but is a great place to escape the heat. Tickets cost at most €5.00 and you can book them online before your visit.
Late Afternoon
Ferry to the Three Cities: Take a short ferry ride across the Grand Harbour to the Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua).
In Vittoriosa: Visit Fort St. Angelo: Explore this historic fort, which has played a crucial role in Malta’s history. Visit the Grand Harbour Marina for a picturesque view.
In Senglea: Senglea Point: Walk along the Senglea Promenade for stunning views of Valletta and the Grand Harbour. Visit the Gardjola Gardens for panoramic views.
In Cospicua: Birgu (Cospicua) Waterfront: Stroll along the waterfront and explore the charming streets. Visit the Inquisitor’s Palace if you have time.
Evening: Dinner at Cugó Gran Macina Restaurant: Enjoy dinner at this waterfront restaurant in Senglea, offering a mix of Mediterranean and Maltese cuisine.
Day 2: Malta’s Coastal Wonders
Morning
Mdina: Start your day with a visit to the Stunning City of Mdina, a medieval walled town. Explore the narrow streets and visit St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Fontanella Tea Garden: Enjoy a mid-morning snack at Fontanella Tea Garden, known for its delicious cakes and stunning views of the island.
For even better views here, head towards Bastion Square towards the Panoramic Malta Viewpoint. You only need to spend around 15 minutes here but you will be able to take the best photos from this point.
Late Morning
Dingli Cliffs: Head to the Dingli Cliffs for breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Take a leisurely walk along the cliffs and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Just be careful walking here when the winds are strong, it becomes really hard to walk and enjoy the views in these conditions.
Lunch
Marsaxlokk: Visit the charming fishing village of Marsaxlokk for a seafood lunch by the water. TA’ VICTOR is one of the best and has great views of the Port.
Tip: Here is the best place to explore the colourful traditional fishing boats known as Luzzus. You don’t tend to see many of them throughout the Island but most of the fishermen live in this area.
If you have some time it is worth bringing your swimming gear here and exploring the more untouched swimming spots like Kalanka Bay.
Afternoon
Blue Grotto: Take a boat tour to the Blue Grotto, a series of sea caverns with brilliant shades of blue. Marvel at the natural beauty and limestone formations.
You can visit them alone but it is such a better experience if you book a guided tour.
Evening
Dinner at Tarragon: Wrap up your trip with a delightful dinner at Tarragon in St. Julian’s, known for its Mediterranean and Maltese cuisine.
Are 2 days enough for Malta?
Two days in Malta can provide a glimpse of its rich history and stunning landscapes, but it’s a brief timeframe.
The archipelago offers captivating attractions like Valletta’s historical sites, Mdina’s charming streets, and the Blue Lagoon’s crystal-clear waters. So even though you can see a lot in Malta in 2 days, most people end up wanting longer.
However, sometimes you don’t have more than time, especially if you are visiting the Island on a cruise. To make the most of your time, plan efficiently and focus on must-see locations like the Blue Grotto.
Things to do in Malta for more than 2 days
You can see a lot of Malta in two days, especially if you hire a car. But if you decide to extend your trip and stay here longer, these are some amazing things you should add to your itinerary:
- Take a day trip to Gozo Island
- Spend the day relaxing at Paradise Bay
- Book a boat trip to Sicily
- Go to Popeye’s Village
- Explore St Paul’s Catacombs
- Swim in the Blue Lagoon
How To Spend 2 Days In Malta: Final Thoughts
There are hundreds of ways you could spend your 2 days exploring Malta.
From relaxing on its golden beaches to exploring its ancient streets, it’s one of the few places where you can say it offers something for everyone and actually mean it!
This itinerary will give you the best taste of Malta in 48 hours but if you get the chance to extend your trip, it will be worth it.
