Main roads between major sights are generally in good condition, but rural roads and village streets can be extremely narrow with many potholes. If Google Maps suggests a very small backstreet, it’s often safer to stick to the larger, main roads.
Malta Heritage and Coastline Roadtrip
Journey Through Malta
Discover Malta's cultural richness and scenic coastal villages in a single-day loop. Start in Valletta, where lush gardens and baroque wonders await. Journey north to Mellieħa, home of family-filled Popeye Village, and then cross to Gozo to marvel at prehistoric Ggantija Temples, the oldest megalithic structures on the islands. At Marsaxlokk, stroll the vibrant fishing harbor and browse its local market before returning to historic Valletta. This itinerary blends history, family fun, and waterfront relaxation – an ideal mix for all types of travelers seeking to experience the essence of Malta in just one day.
Cultural Sites
Natural Beauty
Perfect For All
About This Roadtrip
This Malta roadtrip delivers a day packed with historic marvels, seaside charm, and vibrant local culture. With stops ranging from ornate gardens in Valletta and fun family attractions in Mellieħa, to Gozo’s prehistoric wonders, each moment uncovers a new facet of Maltese life.
Perfect for families, couples, and anyone passionate about history or seeking coastal relaxation, the route introduces you to Malta’s diverse personality. Experience bustling market scenes, ancient temples, and scenic coastal roads—all in a compact adventure that stays rich in variety and discovery.
View route on map
Starting Station: Malta Luqa Airport (MLA)
Trip Duration: 1 days
Mileage Distance: 60 km
Perfect For: Beach Lovers, Couples, Families, History Enthusiasts
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Reddit Reviews
Gozo is known for its miraculous church.
Gozo is home to the oldest megaliths of Ggantia.
The miraculous church and the Ggantia megaliths are very interesting to see on Gozo.
No information, travel tips, or user questions are available for Valletta, Malta in the dataset.
Gozo stands out for its unique historical and religious sites, while Valletta lacks detailed information in the dataset, making Gozo the highlight of this roadtrip.
👍 5 % positive|👎 2 % negative
Begin Your Malta Adventure
Begin your Maltese journey by picking up your rental car in Valletta and setting out to experience the best of the island in just one day. Let the route guide you from gardens and heritage in the capital through playful attractions, ancient ruins, and a local seaside market. Discover Malta’s top sights with maximum flexibility and comfort on this memorable self-drive.
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Where To Stop
Roadtrip Stops
This Maltese roadtrip highlights the most unique sites in each stop—gardens, villages, ancient temples, and a bustling harbor. Explore and enjoy every destination along this thoughtfully planned route.
1
First stop
Valletta
Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta offer sweeping views of the Grand Harbour and a serene escape amid the city’s bustling streets. Visitors can stroll along floral terraces, enjoy shaded benches, and experience the noon-day cannon salute from the Saluting Battery below. The gardens make a perfect first stop, blending natural beauty with Valletta’s historical core before you set out to explore more of Malta.
Based on 8665 reviews
(4.5/5)
2
Second stop
Mellieħa
Popeye Village, just outside Mellieħa, was constructed as a film set and is now an open-air museum and family theme park. Enjoy exploring colorful buildings, interactive shows, and swimming spots, making it particularly appealing for families. It’s a playful contrast to Malta’s historic sites, perfect for travelers with kids or those young at heart.
Based on 7226 reviews
(4/5)
3
Third stop
Gozo
Ggantija Archaeological Park in Gozo is a UNESCO site featuring megalithic temples older than Stonehenge. Explore massive stone walls, ancient altars, and fascinating exhibits that highlight Malta’s prehistoric culture. This stop is a must for history lovers, offering a glimpse into the island’s mysterious past with a personal, hands-on experience.
Based on 1841 reviews
(4.1/5)
4
Fourth stop
Marsaxlokk
Marsaxlokk Market is the heart of this fishing village, alive with stalls selling fresh seafood, local produce, and handmade crafts. The waterfront is lined with brightly painted boats and authentic restaurants, perfect for soaking up Maltese culture and sampling local flavors during your midday break before continuing your journey.
Based on 428 reviews
(3.1/5)
5
Fifth stop
Valletta
St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta stands as a masterpiece of baroque architecture, renowned for its ornate interior, intricate marble floors, and famous Caravaggio painting. Finish your day with an immersion into Malta’s religious and artistic legacy in this architectural wonder, reflecting the deep-rooted history and culture at the core of the capital city.
Based on 12889 reviews
(4.7/5)
All you need to know before you go!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Gozo is home to the oldest megaliths of Ggantia.
Valletta is mostly pedestrianized and has very limited street parking. It is best to park in the MCP Car Park in Floriana (just outside the city gate) or the Valletta Waterfront. From there, you can easily walk into the city center.
While you can drive to the gates of cities like Mdina and Valletta, the historic centers are largely "no-car zones" for visitors. Always look for the ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone) signs to avoid high fines from traffic cameras.
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