The best Malta Instagram spots you need to see to believe:
The sun gently rises over the horizon. My skin begins to warm and so do the gold-cladded buildings around me. Welcome to Malta, a tiny Mediterranean island sizzling with history, culture, and personality. From ancient cities like Valletta and Mdina, to its sister islands, Gozo and Comino, Malta is undoubtedly one of the world’s most Instagrammable places. It’s no wonder, then, why there are so many Malta Instagram spots to include in this article.
There are countless sights and attractions in this country that are worthy of a spot on your Instagram feed. Based on my visit to this beautiful country, here are the 12 most Instagrammable places in Malta.
The 12 top Malta Instagram spots (map)
1. The streets of Valletta
Just a kilometer in length and 600 meters in width, Valletta is tiny for a capital city. Though despite its quaint size, the city is incredibly picturesque, making it one of the top Malta Instagram spots.
You can walk from one end to the other in a matter of minutes. Back in high school when I ran track & field, I could’ve made it from one end to the other in 1:26! Those were the days… Though distance runners will inevitably run out of roads to run on here, Valletta is chock-full of treasures that deserve a mention on your Instagram page.
Inside its ancient walls, you’ll find everything from medieval buildings and quaint streets to modern museums and cafés. Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts 320 historic monuments. The Greeks, Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs (and the list goes on and on) are well represented here.
More recently, Valletta was named the European Capital of Culture in 2018. Whether you’re into history or more of the contemporary stuff, you’ll find a friend in Valletta. You’ll also find plenty of Instagrammable material that will leave you in awe.
Tips for visiting Valletta
Valletta is compact, so there aren’t many accommodations to choose from (particularly during the busy summer months). To save some cash and still be in convenient range of the city, I recommend staying in Sliema. This residential community is just across Marsamxett Harbor from Valletta, only a 5-minute ferry ride away.
2. The Blue Lagoon
This has to be one of the most photogenic spots in Malta.
Located on the small Maltese island of Comino, one of the most beautiful islands found anywhere in the globe, the Blue Lagoon is a highlight of any trip to Malta. It’s an excellent day-trip destination, and one of the most Instagrammable places and best photography spots in Malta.
Like the Blue Lagoon in Iceland, Malta’s very own version has a mysterious and otherworldly aura to it. Crystal clear turquoise waters batter rugged golden cliffs, providing an epic backdrop for the perfect IG photo. Adventure seekers can go scuba diving and hike along the cliffs, while beachgoers can relax and enjoy the beach.
Hikers and beach bums will love exploring this mystical island oasis and its Blue Lagoon. Because it’s separated from the rest of Malta, it truly feels like a hidden gem.
Tips for visiting the Blue Lagoon
The boat ride to Comino—and the Blue Lagoon— is incredibly scenic. Be sure to have your camera ready to capture photos of its dramatic sea cliffs, hidden coves, and beautiful beaches. If you can, wake up nice and early to beat the crowds of tourists who flock here in droves.
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3. The historic city of Mdina
Mdina is one of Europe’s best hidden gems. It’s brimming with beautiful Baroque and Norman architecture, including palaces and churches. The historic walls surrounding the city give the city an ancient flair. When you’re standing in its center, you’ll feel like you’re in Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East at once.
During the day, you can see Mdina’s ancient architecture and remnants of the many empires that once reigned from here. At night, its streets become quiet and lamp lit; hence its nickname, the “Silent City.”
Tips for visiting Mdina
If you’re looking to just spend a few hours in Mdina, I recommend getting here by mid-afternoon. That way, you’ll have ample time to explore this magical city by day and by night. Mdina is tiny, so you won’t need to spend more than a few hours here. You’ll also get some of your most Instagrammable photos here during golden hour.
4. Popeye Village
This another sight to add to your ultimate Malta bucket list!
Located in northwestern Malta, this village was created more than two millennia after Mdina—in the year 1980. But what Popeye Village lacks in extensive history, it makes up for by being among the most photogenic and Instagrammable spots in Malta. Here’s why you should visit this beautiful place:
As its name suggests, this vibrant village was named after the musical-film production, Popeye. It was originally built as a film set, and it’s still in use today as a resort town and small theme park.
Tips for visiting Popeye Village
Don’t have young children or Popeye nostalgia? No problem! The village is still worth a quick stop. You can get some amazing photos of the village from the outside, without having to pay the €15 admission ticket.
5. Inland Sea, Gozo
The second largest island in the Maltese archipelago, Gozo, is home to many scenic sights and attractions. One beautiful gem worth noting is the Inland Sea.
The Inland Sea is a saltwater lagoon connected to the Mediterranean Sea by a cave tunnel. It’s a popular place for swimming, diving, and (naturally) snapping the perfect IG photo. For just €4, you can take a 15-minute boat rides through the caves and into the open sea.
At the Inland Sea, dramatic rocks and sea cliffs enclose the crystal-clear blue water.
Tips for visiting the Inland Sea in Gozo
Before taking a swim, be sure to scan the water and see what other people are doing. From time to time, this cove is known to have jellyfish, so it’s important to stay vigilant. If you’d like to go snorkeling inside the narrow cave, be careful of boats passing by.
6. Mnajdra and Ħaġar Qim Temples
Look at any Malta travel guide, and you’ll find these temples on there.
Built between 3600 BC and 700 BC, the Megalithic Temples of Malta are jointly designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These 5 prehistoric stone buildings lie on the islands of Malta and Gozo. The two that I’m going to share are the Mnajdra and Ħaġar Qim Temples.
Mnajdra was an ancient religious site that was built between 3600 and 3200 BC. These stone ruins were erected during the same millennium as Stonehenge, and even slightly resemble it (except for the rosy Mediterranean look, anyway). Mnajdra is made from coralline limestone, a much sturdier material than the globigerina limestone used to build Ħaġar Qim.
Ħaġar Qim is just a few hundred yards from Mnajdra, and it’s equally as Instagrammable. During the solstice and equinox, the sun is said to perfectly align with its stones. This has lead archaeologists to believe that the orientation was deliberate and Ħaġar Qim builders were advanced in astronomy.
Though a stack of stones today, it’s incredible to walk amid ruins where our ancestors worshipped over 5,000 years ago. In the process, you’ll have plenty of unique angles to capture the perfect Instagram photo.
Tips for visiting Mnajdra and Ħaġar Qim Temples
The signage isn’t that great here, so it’s a good idea to rent an audio guide (only €1).
7. Marsaxlokk fishing village
While you’re visiting the south, scouring the landscape for the most Instagrammable places in Malta, be sure to add Marsaxlokk to your list. This fishing village and its adjoining harbor are incredibly picturesque and frequented by tourists and locals alike. Just look at these vibrant fishing boats!
On Sundays, this coastal community comes alive with its open-air market. Fresh seafood is sold on the cheap, as well as fresh honey, fruits and vegetables, and souvenirs.
Tips for visiting Marsaxlokk
Though there’s a lot of hype surrounding the Sunday market, I recommend visiting Marsaxlokk during the week instead. It’s much less crowded, and you’ll still find stalls and restaurants selling fresh seafood. It’s definitely one of the top Malta Instagram spots.
8. The Citadella in Victoria, Gozo
This hilltop fortification is the highlight of any trip to Malta’s sister island, Gozo. It stands tall above the historic city of Victoria (also called Rabat). The castle complex is like a small town, replete with churches, museums, and other historic buildings that harken back to ancient times. It’s the perfect spot to spend an afternoon in Malta.
From the street level, it’s a steep uphill climb to the Citadella, but well worth it for the panoramic views of Gozo island.
Tips for visiting the Citadella
As you can imagine, this hilltop fortress—including its walls and narrow alleyways—endure scorching heat during the summer. As such, it’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
9. The Blue Grotto
Located on the southern coast of Malta, the Blue Grotto is one of the country’s most beautiful and Instagrammable places. Named after Grotta Azzura in Italy, this cave complex is known for its magical reflections of the sky and flora.
Blue hues and other phosphorescent colors reflect on the cave walls and water below. Check out this video of the Blue Grotto:
Tips for visiting the Blue Grotto
To see the most striking reflections, be sure to visit the Blue Grotto bright and early. If you’d like to see the caves and main arch up close, you’ll have to book a boat tour. For a view of the cliffs and water from above, you can drive towards Żurrieq and follow the signs to the Blue Grotto.
10. St. Julian’s
Just north of Malta’s capital, Valletta, is a scenic resort town called St. Julian’s (San Ġiljan in Maltese). The town’s seafront promenade is home to posh hotels, restaurants, bars, and clubs, making it one of the best Malta Instagram spots.
Once upon a time, St. Julian’s was a quaint fishing village. Today, it’s sprawling with luxurious high-rises and a lively party scene (especially in the Paceville district). The adjacent waterfront, Spinola Bay, has a romantic alfresco vibe that’s emblematic of Malta’s modern revival.
Tips for visiting St. Julian’s
In the summer, Spinola Bay is pretty much a zoo during all hours of the day. If you’d like to grab a meal or cocktail while catching the sunset, be sure to make a reservation in advance!
11. Għajn Tuffieħa
Għajn Tuffieħa is a secluded and unspoiled beach in northwestern Malta. It’s just steps from Golden Bay, another scenic and Instagrammable place in Malta, but doesn’t draw the same crowds.
As one of Malta’s only sandy beaches, Għajn Tuffieħa is accessible via a steep downhill hike (180 steps to be exact). If you’re willing and able to make the trek down all these stairs, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful, pristine beach. The best part? You likely won’t be sharing the beach with more than 100 other tourists at a time.
(Looking for an exotic Mediterranean getaway? Check out this list of the most Instagrammable places in Spain!)
Tips for visiting Għajn Tuffieħa
Particularly during a hot summer’s day, be sure to stay hydrated while you’re at the beach. The 180 steps back up to the parking lot can be quite challenging.
12. Dingli Cliffs
If you’re looking to experience Malta off the beaten path, the Dingli Cliffs are a must. At 830 feet (253 m) above sea level, these cliffs are the highest point of the island. It’s definitely one of the best Instagram spots in Malta.
The Dingli Cliffs lie alongside the ancient cities of Rabat, Mdina, and Dingli, offering stunning views along the coast towards Filfla island. Be sure to also visit the Chapel of St. Mary Magdalene, a 17th-century church and the highest point in Malta. These are definitely among the most beautiful Malta Instagram spots.
Tips for visiting Dingli Cliffs
The best time of day to visit the Dingli Cliffs is the late afternoon. Enjoy a cliff walk before witnessing one of the most beautiful and Instagrammable sunsets in all of Malta.
Some of the most beautiful Malta Instagram spots
I hope you enjoyed seeing and learning about these 13 most Instagrammable places in Malta! There are many amazing photo spots in Malta, so this list of Instagrammable places just scratches the surface.
A picture is worth a thousand words, so I decided to keep the commentary short and let the pictures do most of the talking. Am I missing any beautiful Instagram spots in Malta on this list? Send me a message on Instagram or leave a comment below!
Happy Travels!
Jon
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