Dear travelers,
You know those places that just feel easy? Not in a boring way, but in that “everything is close, everything is beautiful, and somehow there’s always something happening” kind of way?
That’s Malta.
I’ve now been twice, and the second time confirmed what I suspected after the first: Malta is small, yes, but don’t let that fool you. Distances look short on the map (like, “oh it’s only 10 km, that’s nothing”), but with traffic… that can easily turn into a full-on journey. So planning your days right makes all the difference.
This guide is exactly how we spent 3 days in Malta: balancing beaches, food, culture, and just the right amount of partying. Think of it as your little shortcut to experiencing the best of the island without feeling rushed.
Let’s get into it.
Before You Go: A Few Things I Wish I Knew Earlier
Getting Around Malta (aka: the 10 km illusion)
Malta is tiny. Like… really tiny. But here’s the thing:
- Public transport is cheap → great if you’re not in a rush
- Uber is surprisingly affordable → our go-to option
- Traffic is… chaotic at times
So even if something looks close:
10 km does NOT mean 10 minutes
Plan your days by area, not by distance. Trust me on this one.
Where to Stay in Malta: Why We Chose Sliema
We stayed in Sliema, and honestly, it’s the perfect base.
Why?
- Central location
- Easy ferry access to Valletta
- Close to restaurants, beaches, and nightlife
- Less chaotic than Paceville, but still lively
Best Time to Visit Malta
We went in May, which was perfect:
- Warm weather
- Fewer crowds
- BUT… the sea was still a bit cold
So if you’re more of a “floating in the ocean all day” person, aim for June–September.
Day 1: Beaches, Lunch by the Sea & A Night to Remember
Morning: Golden Bay (Yes, It’s That Beautiful)
We started our trip at Golden Bay, and honestly… I didn’t even consider going anywhere else. This was my second time here, which says everything.
- Soft sand
- Crystal-clear turquoise water
- Wide open space → not cramped like some rocky beaches
It’s one of those places where you just sit there thinking, “Okay… this is exactly why I came here.”
Tip:
- Go early if you want a good spot
- Bring water + snacks
- Don’t rush, this is a slow morning kind of place
Lunch in Sliema: Punto Bar & Dine
After the beach, we headed back to Sliema for lunch at Punto Bar & Dine, right by the sea. And this is exactly the kind of place you want after a beach morning:
- Relaxed vibe
- Sea views
- Good food without trying too hard
We sat there for a while, just recharging, watching the water, and letting the day unfold slowly.
Night: Gianpula Village (If You’re Here to Party… Don’t Skip This)
Okay, so this trip actually revolved around a festival, which meant one thing:
- Gianpula Village
If you’re even slightly into nightlife, you need to experience this.
Think:
- Multiple clubs in one place
- Open-air dance floors
- Big festival energy
It’s not your typical club, it’s more like a mini nightlife universe.
Tips for Gianpula:
- Check events in advance
- Plan your ride home (late-night transport can be tricky)
- Wear something comfortable, you’ll be walking and dancing a lot
Day 2: Valletta, Culture & The Perfect Sunset Party
Morning: The Ferry to Valletta (Best €3 You’ll Spend)
Instead of taking the bus, we hopped on the ferry from Sliema to Valletta. And this is one of those small travel hacks that makes your trip better.
- Around €3
- Way faster than the bus
- Views = unreal
You get that cinematic arrival moment, like you’re entering the city the right way.
Exploring Valletta: A City That Feels Like a Movie Set
Valletta is… special. It doesn’t feel like a city you just visit, it feels like one you wander through slowly, noticing details.
What stood out most:
- Colorful wooden balconies (iconic!)
- Bright doors in every shade imaginable
- Warm golden stone everywhere
It’s actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by the Knights of St. John and you can feel that history in every street.
Must-See Spots in Valletta
- Triton Fountain → the grand entrance
- Upper Barrakka Gardens → insane views over the harbor
- Random side streets → honestly, don’t rush these
This is not a checklist city. It’s a get lost and enjoy it kind of place.
Lunch Idea: Try Something Traditional
If you’re feeling adventurous, this is your moment.
Rabbit (fenek) is one of Malta’s traditional dishes. I know… rabbit sounds like something out of a countryside novel. But here, it’s a big deal.
Even if you don’t go for it:
- Try local seafood
- Or grab something simple and enjoy the atmosphere
Evening: Café del Mar (Sunset + Party Combo)
Now let’s talk about one of my favorite spots: Café del Mar.
This place is everything:
- Pool
- Music
- Sunset views that feel unreal
We went on a Sunday, and the best part? Free entry.
But:
- Entry fees depend on the event
- You can also come during the day to swim
It’s giving Ibiza energy… but more relaxed.
Day 3: Pool Day, Paceville & Art-Inspired Cocktails
Daytime: Infinity by Hugo’s (Pool > Cold Sea)
Since the sea was still a bit cold for us in May, we went for a pool day at: Infinity by Hugo’s
And? Best decision.
- Around €20–25 for the day
- Sunbeds + towels included
- Stylish, relaxed vibe
You don’t need to be a hotel guest, which makes it even better.
Location Bonus: Paceville
This pool is located in Paceville, Malta’s other nightlife hub (after Gianpula).
So if you’re staying nearby or planning a night out: This is a perfect pre-party spot.
Evening: Valletta at Night + Kamy Cocktail Bar
We ended our trip back in Valletta, and I have to say: It feels completely different at night.
- Quieter
- Softer
- Almost romantic
After all the beach clubs and parties, this was exactly the balance we needed.
Kamy Cocktail Bar (Where Drinks Meet Art)
This place is such a gem.
- Cocktails start at around €10
- Each drink is inspired by a famous painting. Yes… actual paintings like: Starry Night (Van Gogh), The Kiss (Klimt)…
And the best part? You literally get the artwork presented with your drink.
It’s one of those little experiences that just sticks with you.
If You Have More Time in Malta (And You Definitely Should)
If you can extend your trip—even by a day—do it.
Here are two places worth adding:
Mdina: The Silent City
Completely different vibe from Valletta.
- Almost everything is beige
- Quiet, peaceful, slow
And if you’re a Game of Thrones fan: The entrance to Mdina was used as King’s Landing.
Walking here feels like stepping into another time.
Popeye Village
Okay, this one is a bit unexpected—but fun.
- Originally built as a film set for the Popeye movie
- Now a colorful little village attraction
Think:
- Bright wooden houses
- Sea views
- Slightly quirky energy
It’s great for photos and a relaxed half-day trip.
Blue Lagoon Day Trip (Comino Island)
If there’s one place you’ve probably seen all over Instagram… it’s this: The Blue Lagoon on Comino Island
And yes, it really is that blue.
This is more of a half-day or full-day trip, and it’s 100% worth it if you want that crystal-clear, almost unreal water.
What to expect:
- Bright turquoise water (like… glowing)
- No real sandy beach, mostly rocks and platforms
- Perfect for swimming, floating, and doing absolutely nothing
How to get there:
- Boat tours from Sliema, Bugibba, or Cirkewwa
- Some tours include stops around caves and the coast
Things to keep in mind:
- It gets crowded (especially in summer)
- Go early morning if you can
- Bring water, snacks, and maybe water shoes
Final Thoughts: Is 3 Days in Malta Enough?
Yes… and no.
Three days is enough to:
- See the highlights
- Experience the vibe
- Mix beach, culture, and nightlife
But Malta has this way of pulling you in slowly.
You’ll start thinking:
“Maybe one more day…”
And honestly? You’d probably be right.
The One Thing to Remember
Malta is small, but not fast.
So:
- Plan smart
- Stay central (Sliema!)
- Don’t overpack your days
Let it flow a little.
Truly yours,
The Creation of Us
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