Malta was one of my favorite stops in Europe, and I loved exploring its mix of history, coastline, and charming villages. This 7 day Malta itinerary will take you through Gozo, Marsaxlokk, and Valletta, showing the best sights, local experiences, and places to eat along the way.
Keep reading for a detailed day-by-day plan to help you make the most of your trip.
Published: June 4, 2026
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Complete 7 Day Malta Itinerary
This 7 day Malta itinerary breaks down the trip day by day. You’ll start in Gozo, explore Marsaxlokk, and finish in Valletta, with tips for sightseeing, food, and local experiences along the way.
Day 1: Travel to Gozo and Explore the Island
Start your trip by making your way from Malta to Gozo. If you’re coming from Malta Airport, the easiest option is to take a taxi or bus to Ċirkewwa ferry terminal, which is about a 40–50 minute drive. From Valletta, you can also take a direct bus (Route X1 or 41 to Ċirkewwa) or a taxi, depending on your schedule and luggage.
The ferry from Ċirkewwa to Gozo takes about 25 minutes, and tickets can be purchased at the terminal or online. If you’re bringing a rental car, make a reservation for the vehicle in advance. Once you arrive in Mgarr, Gozo’s main port, you’ll be ready to start exploring the island.
Begin with Ramla Bay, one of Gozo’s most famous beaches, known for its red sand. Walk along the shore, take photos, or stop at a small café or kiosk for a snack. From there, head up to Tal-Mixta Cave for views over Ramla Bay and the surrounding coastline. It’s a short walk but offers one of the best panoramas on the island.
Next, explore the west coast near Dwejra. Even though the Azure Window is gone, the area still has dramatic cliffs, the Inland Sea, and rock formations that are worth visiting. Walking along the coast gives you a sense of Gozo’s rugged scenery.
If time allows, stop in a nearby village to try Gozo specialties like pastizzi or local cheese and wine. End the day by checking into your accommodation, whether in Victoria for central access to the island or closer to the coast if you prefer a more chill evenings.
Book a tour in Gozo: Gozo: Full day Private Tour from Malta
Day 2: Gozo Old Town and History & Views
On day 2, focus on Gozo’s history and scenic viewpoints. Start in Victoria, the island’s main town, and head to the Citadel. The Citadel sits on a hill in the center of Victoria and offers panoramic views of the island. You can walk around the fortress walls, take photos, and get a sense of Gozo’s layout. Inside the Citadel, visit the Gran Castello Historic House museum, which has exhibits on local history and culture.
After exploring the Citadel, spend some time walking through the old town streets. There are small shops, cafés, and bakeries where you can grab a coffee or a snack.
Next, plan a visit to the Ġgantija Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These Neolithic temples are some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world. Allow at least an hour to explore the site and the small visitor center, which provides historical context.
If you want a quieter, more natural experience in the afternoon, head to Għasri Valley or the Xwejni salt pans. Both spots offer scenic walks, local charm, and photo opportunities away from the main tourist areas. Għasri Valley has a small inlet and a peaceful setting, while Xwejni salt pans show traditional salt-harvesting techniques with a coastal backdrop.
Finish the day with a meal at a local Gozo restaurant, where you can try fresh seafood, local cheese, or other Maltese specialties. Return to your accommodation to rest and prepare for traveling to Marsaxlokk the next day.
Book your Gozo tour: From Malta: Gozo Day Trip Including Ggantija Temples
Day 3: Travel to Marsaxlokk and Village Walk
On day 3, leave Gozo and travel back to mainland Malta. From Mgarr ferry port, take the ferry to Ċirkewwa, then continue by car or bus to Marsaxlokk. From Valletta, it’s about a 30-minute drive or an easy bus ride along the coast.
Once in Marsaxlokk, walk along the harbor and take in the colorful fishing boats and calm waters. This is one of the best places on the island for fresh seafood, so plan a lunch or late afternoon snack at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Afterwards, explore the village streets at a relaxed pace. There are small shops, cafés, and hidden corners worth checking out. If possible, time your stay to include the Sunday market, where locals sell fish, produce, and handmade goods. This is the best way to see the village at its liveliest and experience authentic local culture.
Book your tour in Marsaxlokk: Blue Grotto & Sunday Market at Marsaxlokk Fishing Village
Spend the afternoon relaxing and enjoying the slower pace of this fishing village. Consider a short walk along the coast or a visit to nearby bays if you have extra time. End the day with dinner at another harbor restaurant or a quiet café before heading to your accommodation.
For more Marsaxlokk ideas, read this Marsaxlokk itinerary: Marsaxlokk Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days Exploring Malta’s Coast
Day 4: Marsaxlokk and Surroundings
On day 4, spend a full day enjoying Marsaxlokk and the surrounding area. If your stay includes a Sunday, start with the Sunday market. The market is lively and colorful, with vendors selling fresh fish, fruits, vegetables, and handmade goods. Walking through it gives a glimpse of local life and is a good opportunity to try small bites like pastries, local sweets, or freshly caught seafood. Arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds and get the best selection of goods.
After exploring the market, consider a short trip to nearby attractions. St. Peter’s Pool is a natural swimming area about a 10–15 minute drive from the village. The clear blue water is perfect for a swim or sunbathing, and the surrounding cliffs are popular for jumping if you’re feeling adventurous. Bring water shoes if you plan to climb on the rocks, as they can be slippery.
For a dose of history, drive 10 to 15 minutes to visit Hagar Qim and Mnajdra temples. These prehistoric temple complexes are some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world and are set on a hill overlooking the sea. Both sites have visitor centers with exhibits explaining their construction, purpose, and historical significance. Give yourself at least an hour at each site to explore the grounds, take photos, and read about the temples’ history.
Book your Hagar Qim and Mnajdra temples tour: From Malta: Prehistoric Temples Tour – Hagar Qim & Mnajdra
Return to Marsaxlokk in the late afternoon. Spend some time walking along the harbor, watching the traditional fishing boats, and browsing any shops or cafés you may have missed earlier. The village has a relaxed pace, making it easy to enjoy the scenery and the slow rhythm of daily life.
For dinner, choose one of the harbor-side restaurants to enjoy fresh seafood or Maltese specialties like lampuki pie, bragioli, or rabbit stew. Many of these restaurants offer outdoor seating with views of the water, which is especially nice in the evening when the village quiets down.
This day gives the full experience of Marsaxlokk: the energy of the Sunday market, the calm of the harbor, natural swimming spots, and nearby historical and archaeological sites.
Day 5: Valletta Old Town
On day 5, travel from Marsaxlokk to Valletta, Malta’s capital. The drive takes about 30–40 minutes, or you can take a bus along the coast. Valletta is compact and walkable, so once you arrive, spend time exploring the streets at your own pace. Wander through narrow alleys, open squares, and local markets. Stop at cafés for a coffee or pastry and take note of the architecture, which mixes Baroque churches with historic stone buildings.
Start with St. John’s Co‑Cathedral, a highlight of Valletta. The interior is lavish, with ornate marble floors, gilded walls, and impressive paintings, including works by Caravaggio. Plan at least an hour here to fully appreciate the details. From there, head to the Upper Barrakka Gardens for panoramic views over the Grand Harbour. The gardens are a good spot to relax, take photos, and watch the traditional ferry boats and fishing vessels moving through the harbour.
Book your St. John’s Co‑Cathedral tour: Secrets of St John’s Co-Cathedral (Valletta) – Guided Tour
Afterwards, explore Valletta’s museums and forts. The National Museum of Archaeology offers insight into Malta’s prehistoric culture, while the Lascaris War Rooms and Fort St. Elmo show the island’s military history. If you prefer being on the water, consider a short harbour cruise to see Valletta and the surrounding Three Cities from a different perspective.
Book your museum tours in Valletta: Discover Malta’s History with a 3-in-1 Museum Pass
For the afternoon, continue walking through Valletta’s historic streets. Stop at smaller attractions like the Manoel Theatre, Republic Street, and the Triton Fountain. There are also plenty of shops for souvenirs, local crafts, or Maltese specialties like honey rings and pastizzi.
In the evening, have dinner at one of Valletta’s many restaurants. You can choose a traditional Maltese meal, fresh seafood, or Mediterranean cuisine while enjoying views of the lit-up harbour. End the day with a quiet stroll through the city streets, appreciating the calm after the daytime crowds.
This day balances sightseeing, history, local culture, and relaxation, giving you a thorough experience of Valletta without rushing.
For more Valletta ideas, read this Valletta itinerary: Valletta Itinerary: How to Spend 1, 2, or 3 Days in Malta
Day 6: Nearby Towns or Mdina and Valletta
On day 6, dedicate the day to exploring areas around Valletta and diving deeper into Malta’s history and architecture. One option is to take a day trip to Mdina, known as the Silent City. Mdina is a walled medieval town with narrow streets, quiet squares, and historic palaces. Walk along the main streets, stop in small cafés, and take in the views from the bastions overlooking the countryside. Nearby Rabat is just a short walk from Mdina and offers additional sites like St. Paul’s Catacombs and charming local bakeries where you can try Maltese pastries.
Book your St. Paul’s Catacomb and Mdina tour: Malta: Footsteps of St. Paul and Mdina, Private Tour
If you prefer staying closer to Valletta, you can explore the Three Cities across the Grand Harbour: Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua. These cities are full of history, with forts, churches, and cobblestone streets. Walking along the waterfront here gives a sense of Malta’s maritime past, and there are small museums and local shops to explore.
Book a boat tour form Malta: The Three Fortified Cities Tour including Boat Trip.
After your day trip, return to Valletta in the late afternoon. Use the time to revisit any attractions you missed earlier, do some last-minute shopping, or simply relax along the waterfront. For dinner, Valletta has a wide range of restaurants offering fresh seafood, Mediterranean cuisine, and Maltese specialties.
In the evening, take in Valletta’s nightlife or enjoy a quiet walk through the lit streets. The city has a lively but manageable evening scene with bars, wine shops, and outdoor terraces. This day gives a balance of historic exploration, local culture, and leisure, making it a perfect way to round out your stay before your final day.
Day 7: Final Sights and Departure
On your final day of this 7 day Malta itinerary, use the time to catch anything you missed in Valletta. Walk through the streets at a relaxed pace, revisit a favorite café, or explore a museum or church you didn’t get to earlier. The Triton Fountain area and Republic Street are good spots for last-minute shopping, from souvenirs to local crafts like filigree jewelry or Maltese honey rings.
If the weather is nice, take a walk along the waterfront to enjoy views of the harbour and the Three Cities across the water. It’s a peaceful way to end your trip and take in the city one last time.
Plan your timing carefully depending on your departure. If you’re flying out of Malta Airport, give yourself plenty of time for the 20–30 minute drive from Valletta, traffic, and airport check-in. If you’re taking a ferry back to Gozo or Sicily, check schedules in advance and allow extra time to get to the terminal.
This final day is meant to be flexible, letting you wrap up your Malta adventure without rushing while still enjoying the city’s charm and atmosphere one last time.
Tours to Book in Malta
Booking a tour in Malta is an easy way to see the top sights during your 7 day itinerary. Whether you want a guided walking tour in Valletta, a boat trip along the coast, or a day trip to Gozo or the temples, there are options for every interest. Here are some of the best tours to book in Malta:
Places to Stay in Gozo
Gozo is small and relaxed, so staying near Victoria gives you easy access to restaurants, shops, and the Citadel. Renting a car is helpful if you want to explore the coast, beaches, and remote villages.
Budget: Hotel Calypso – Affordable and centrally located in Victoria. Rooms are simple but clean, and the hotel offers easy access to restaurants, small shops, and bus stops. This is a good option if you plan to spend most of your time exploring the island.
Mid-range: The Duke Boutique Hotel – Modern, comfortable rooms in the heart of Victoria. The hotel has helpful staff who can provide tips for day trips, and it’s within walking distance of cafés, restaurants, and the Citadel. Parking is available if you have a rental car.
Luxury: Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz Malta – A high-end option with a spa, pool, and spacious rooms. It’s set in a quiet area, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing, but still a short drive from Gozo’s main attractions like Ramla Bay and the Ġgantija Temples.
Places to Stay in Marsaxlokk
Staying near the harbor lets you enjoy the fishing village, waterfront restaurants, and the Sunday market. Marsaxlokk is small, so most accommodations are within walking distance of the main attractions.
Budget: Fisherman’s Cove Guesthouse – Clean and simple rooms right near the harbor. The guesthouse is quiet, but you’re still just a short walk from seafood restaurants and shops. Great for travelers who want to focus on the village and the Sunday market.
Mid-range: THE OSIRIS – Comfortable rooms with modern amenities. The location is convenient for exploring the waterfront, nearby bays, and the surrounding countryside. Staff can help with tips for short day trips.
Luxury: Dun Gorg Guest House – Larger, well-maintained rooms with a more private feel. It’s quiet, but still close enough to walk to the harbor, restaurants, and shops. Perfect if you want a peaceful base while still being in the heart of the village.
Places to Stay in Valletta
Valletta is compact and walkable, so staying in the city makes it easy to explore on foot. Buses and ferries are convenient for visiting nearby towns, and it’s best to watch your belongings in crowded areas like Republic Street and major attractions.
Budget: Mandera’s Boutique Suites & Dorms – Simple, clean rooms in the city center. Ideal for travelers who want to be close to shops, cafés, and landmarks without paying high prices. The hostel-style option is also good if you’re traveling solo.
Mid-range: Casa Asti – Comfortable rooms with modern amenities. Located on a quieter street near the main squares and waterfront, it’s easy to walk to museums, restaurants, and ferry terminals. Staff can provide tips for sightseeing and day trips.
Luxury: Iniala Harbour House – High-end suites with private terraces and harbour views. The property offers personalized service and a stylish design. Staying here puts you in walking distance of Valletta’s top attractions, plus it’s a good base for exploring the Grand Harbour and nearby Three Cities.
Malta Travel Tips For Your 7 Day Itinerary
Visiting Malta is easy, but a few tips can help you make the most of your 7 day itinerary and stay safe while exploring.
- Transportation: Malta’s main island is small, but public transportation can be slow and limited outside Valletta. Renting a car is the easiest way to explore Gozo, Marsaxlokk, and coastal areas at your own pace. Buses run regularly between Valletta and popular towns, and taxis or rideshares are widely available. Ferries are reliable for travel between Malta and Gozo, with tickets purchased at the terminal or online.
- Getting Around Valletta: The city is compact and walkable, so you don’t need a car there. Walking is the easiest way to see the historic streets, gardens, and museums. Ferries and buses are useful for reaching nearby towns or the Three Cities.
- Pickpockets: Watch your belongings in crowded areas like markets, La Valetta streets, and tourist sites. Keep your bag zipped and valuables secure, especially on buses or in busy restaurants.
- Timing: Start sightseeing early to avoid crowds at popular spots like St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Ġgantija Temples, or the ferry to Gozo. If you plan to visit the Sunday market in Marsaxlokk, plan your Marsaxlokk stay to include a Saturday night for convenience.
- Tickets and Tours: Many attractions require tickets or are best visited with a tour, especially temples, museums, and Park Għar Lapsi or Mdina. Booking in advance saves time and ensures you don’t miss out.
- Food and Drink: Malta has a mix of Mediterranean and local cuisine. Try fresh seafood in Marsaxlokk, pastizzi at local bakeries, and Maltese wine or craft beer. Carry water with you during the summer months, as it can get hot while walking or exploring.
- Safety: Malta is generally safe, but standard travel precautions apply. Stick to well-lit areas at night, avoid isolated coastal paths if alone, and check ferry or bus schedules before heading out.
- Seasonal Considerations: Summers are hot and busy, especially July and August. Spring and fall are ideal for milder weather and fewer crowds. Many outdoor attractions are open year-round, but check opening hours in advance.
Conclusion: 7 Day Malta Itinerary
This 7 day Malta itinerary gives you a complete plan for seeing the islands’ top sights while enjoying local culture, history, and scenery. You’ll explore Gozo’s beaches and temples, experience the charm of Marsaxlokk and its Sunday market, and spend time in Valletta and nearby towns for museums, forts, and waterfront walks.
With careful planning, you can fit in the best attractions, try local food, and enjoy Malta at a relaxed pace. Use the tips in this guide for transportation, tickets, and timing to make the most of your trip. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this 7 day Malta itinerary makes it easy to see the highlights and have a memorable experience.
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- Booking.com for a huge variety of hotels, vacation rentals, flights, and more
- HostelWorld for the best hostels around the world
- Vrbo for vacation homes and rentals
- Going and Thrifty Traveler for cheap flight alerts
- Amazon for travel and packing must-haves
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