Walking Holidays in Malta: Best Routes, Regions, and What to Expect

Malta offers a compact Mediterranean walking holiday with coastal paths, cliffside routes, historic city walks, countryside trails, and village routes across Malta and Gozo.

This guide looks at where to walk, how to choose the right type of trip, and what to expect from the food, accommodation, culture, and landscapes along the way.

Choosing the Right Walking Holiday in Malta

Most walking holidays in Malta focus on a single island base, coastal area, historic city, or Malta-and-Gozo combination rather than trying to rush between too many routes.

Because the country is small, it is easy to mix cliff paths, old towns, villages, and sea views while still keeping the pace relaxed.

• Best for coastal views → Dingli Cliffs, where easy paths, open sea views, and peaceful surroundings create one of Malta’s classic walking experiences.
• Best for rugged shoreline walking → The South Coast Trail, with rocky paths, hidden coves, and quieter stretches of coastline.
• Best for countryside scenery → Buskett Gardens and the surrounding rural routes, offering shade, greenery, village paths, and views across inland Malta.

“First time on the trail? Hiking for Beginners has your back.”

Why Should You Explore Malta On a Walking Holiday?

If you’re someone who loves a walking holiday in a place that a lot of people tend to overlook and that also adds a touch of Mediterranean charm, then Malta is definitely worth considering.

This tiny island packs quite the punch, and it offers everything from scenic coastal paths to historic city walk – and all with the stunning backdrop of the crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea – Malta will be a lot different from other Mediterranean destinations like southern France, Italy, Spain, Croatia, or Greece.

But what really makes Malta even more special is how its trails blend history and nature seamlessly.

For instance, you can walk through centuries-old cities, pass by ancient temples, and still be just a stone’s throw from the coast with some of the most jaw-dropping sea views.

So, are you ready to take in all the beauty and history that Malta has to offer?

Let’s check out the best places for a walking adventure on this amazing island!

These Are The Best Places To Check Out On a Walking Holiday in Malta

Here are the top destinations in Malta for a walking holiday:

Coastal & Cliffside Trails

For those of you who like to walk with the sound of the waves crashing against the cliffs and the salty sea breeze in your hair, Malta’s coastal trails will be perfect for you.

Dingli Cliffs

If you like a hike that offers sweeping ocean views and a peaceful atmosphere, the Dingli Cliffs are an absolute must.

Located on the westernmost point of Malta, the cliffs rise high above the sea, which will give you a stunning panoramic view of the Mediterranean.

The trail here is relatively easy, and it makes it perfect for a relaxed walk, but the vistas are nothing short of spectacular.

As you walk, you’ll also pass by some historical landmarks, like the Chapel of St. Mary, which will add a bit of culture to your coastal adventure.

The South Coast Trail

For those of you who enjoy a more rugged coastline, the South Coast Trail offers an exhilarating mix of rocky paths and serene beaches.

Starting near the village of Delimara, this trail will lead you along cliffs that drop into crystal-clear waters and then give you access to hidden beaches that feel far removed from the usual crowds.

So if you like a sense of exploration, you’ll love discovering the quiet coves along this trail and while taking in the sweeping views of the southern coast.

Historical & Cultural Walks

For those of you who like a good mix of history and exploration, Malta’s ancient cities and historic sites offer some of the most fascinating walking routes.

Valletta Walking Tour

Valletta, which happens to be Malta’s capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that will be a perfect place to explore for those of you who like to dive deep into history while taking a leisurely stroll.

As you walk through the narrow streets, you’ll encounter stunning Baroque architecture, majestic palaces, and grand churches, including the magnificent St. John’s Co-Cathedral

Mdina & Rabat Walk

For a more medieval experience, a walk through Mdina, the “Silent City,” is another must.

This ancient walled city, which was once the capital of Malta, will feel like a journey back in time with its narrow, winding streets and historical buildings that are literally around every corner.

From Mdina, you can easily walk to nearby Rabat, which is home to St. Paul’s Catacombs and other early Christian sites.

Countryside & Village Walks

For those of you who prefer a slower pace and want to get a feel for the local life, Malta’s countryside and village walks are the way to go.

Buskett Gardens & Verdala Palace

If you enjoy a peaceful walk surrounded by greenery, you should head to Buskett Gardens.

Located in the southern part of Malta, this beautiful wooded area is a welcome change from the island’s more arid landscape.

The walk through Buskett will take you past shady trees, tranquil paths, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Along the way, you’ll pass by Verdala Palace, which was a long time ago once the summer residence of the Grand Masters of the Knights of St. John.

The Village Trail: Għarb to Ta’ Pinu

For a charming village experience, the trail from Għarb to the iconic Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary is perfect.

Located in Gozo, Malta’s sister island, this walk takes you through peaceful rural paths and past traditional stone houses, with sweeping views of the countryside.

Ta’ Pinu, a beautiful basilica perched on a hill, is the perfect reward after a leisurely walk through this picturesque village route.

If you like to combine nature with local culture, this trail offers the best of both worlds.

Explore More Walking Routes in Malta

If you’re planning more hikes across the islands, these guides can help you explore Malta’s coastal paths, historic cities, village trails, and nearby island walks in more detail.

• Best Hikes in Malta
• Ultimate Guide to Hiking in Malta
• Valletta: A City Guide for Hikers

Example 7-Day Walking Holiday in Malta

Most walking holidays in Malta focus on a single region or trail to reduce travel time and enjoy a more relaxed pace.

To give you an idea of how a trip might come together, here’s an example one-week itinerary based around Malta and Gozo.

Day 1 – Arrive in Valletta
Arrive in Valletta and settle into your accommodation. Spend the afternoon walking through the city’s streets, bastions, harbourside viewpoints, and historic squares.

Day 2 – Valletta Walking Tour
Explore more of Valletta on foot, including its churches, palaces, gardens, narrow lanes, and sea-facing fortifications.

Day 3 – Mdina and Rabat
Take a day trip to Mdina and Rabat for a slower historical walk through medieval streets, old city walls, catacombs, churches, and local cafés.

Day 4 – Dingli Cliffs
Walk along the Dingli Cliffs, enjoying open sea views, rural lanes, and a gentler coastal pace away from the busier towns.

Day 5 – South Coast Trail
Spend the day on a more rugged coastal route, combining rocky paths, hidden coves, sea views, and quieter stretches of shoreline.

Day 6 – Gozo village walk
Travel to Gozo and walk from Għarb to Ta’ Pinu, passing rural scenery, stone houses, countryside views, and one of the island’s most important landmarks.

Day 7 – Short final walk and departure
Enjoy a final coastal promenade or short city walk before travelling onward or departing.

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Best Time of Year for a Walking Holiday in Malta

Malta is walkable for much of the year, but spring and autumn are usually the best seasons for comfortable temperatures, clearer walking conditions, and fewer peak-summer crowds.

Spring – One of the best times for walking, with mild temperatures, greener countryside, wildflowers, and pleasant coastal conditions.

Summer – Hot, dry, and busy, making longer walks more difficult unless you start early and choose shaded or coastal routes.

Autumn – Another excellent season for walking, with warm sea temperatures, softer light, and more comfortable conditions than high summer.

Winter – Possible for city walks, countryside routes, and shorter coastal trails, though weather can be changeable and some paths may be muddy after rain.

Typical Costs of a Walking Holiday in Malta

Malta is generally a mid-range Mediterranean walking holiday destination, though prices can rise in Valletta, popular coastal areas, and peak travel periods.

Accommodation: €70–€160 per night for guesthouses, boutique hotels, farmhouses, or small hotels

Food: €12–€30 for a casual meal, with bakeries, cafés, and local snack shops offering cheaper options

Transport: €2–€20 for local buses, ferries, or short transfers depending on distance and route

Self-guided tours: Around €700–€1,400 per week, depending on accommodation level, island transfers, route planning, luggage support, and included services

“Plan less, walk more.” Pick a route, set your pace, and let Europe unfold under your boots: grab your free Walking Holiday ebook today”

What Can You Expect During a Walking Holiday in Malta?

Here’s what you can really expect from a fun walking holiday in Malta:

Adventures Beyond Walking

For those of you who like to pack your adventure holidays with a little extra excitement, Malta offers plenty of activities beyond just walking and hiking.

If you like the idea of taking your exploration underwater, you might be pleasantly surprised to hear that Malta is actually one of the top diving destinations in Europe.

The clear Mediterranean waters are filled with shipwrecks, caves, and vibrant marine life, which makes it it an ideal place for both beginner and experienced divers. It will be a whole new world for you to discover.

Malta’s walking holidays are easy to pair with extra activities, from diving and kayaking to boat trips, historic sites, coastal swimming, and day trips to Gozo or Comino.

For those of you who want to keep things high-energy, rock climbing and kayaking are perfect ways to experience the island’s coastal beauty from a completely different perspective.

With dramatic cliffs along the coast, there are plenty of climbing spots for all levels. Meanwhile, kayaking around the islands will let you explore hidden coves and crystal-clear waters.

If you’re after a bit of relaxation mixed with some adventure, you should consider a boat trip to Comino or Gozo, where you can enjoy the stunning scenery and take a swim in the famous Blue Lagoon.

The Food and Drink Experience

For those of you who like to discover a place through its food, Malta offers a culinary experience that’s as rich and diverse as its history!

The island’s Mediterranean location means you will get treated to a fantastic mix of fresh seafood, hearty local dishes, and flavors that reflect a mixture of southern European and northern African influences.

If you’ve been hiking along the coastal paths or wandering through the charming villages, you’ll no doubt be craving a meal to fuel you up.

You should start with fenek, which is a traditional rabbit stew that’s cooked slowly in wine and herbs. It makes for a perfect hearty dish after a day on the trails.

Food is a memorable part of the experience, with rabbit stew, pastizzi, fresh seafood, Maltese bread, Kinnie, and Mediterranean flavours giving each walking day a strong local feel.

And for those of you who like something lighter, the local bragioli (or stuffed beef olives) is a must-try.

And don’t forget about the fresh seafood. You can’t visit Malta without trying lampuki, a type of fish that’s a local delicacy, often served in a rich tomato sauce.

For a snack on the go, Malta’s street food will have you hooked. Pastizzi are golden, flaky pastries filled with ricotta or peas, which are perfect for an afternoon treat.

Pair that with a glass of Kinnie, which is Malta’s signature soft drink made from bittersweet oranges, and you’ve got the perfect refreshment to keep you going.

Fun Accommodations

For those of you who like to make your accommodations as memorable as your adventures, Malta offers a range of unique and charming places to stay.

If you’re trekking through the countryside or exploring the historic streets of Valletta, staying in a traditional Maltese farmhouse can be a great way to immerse yourself in local culture.

Accommodation can make the trip feel even more characterful, whether you choose a traditional farmhouse, restored townhouse, boutique hotel, coastal guesthouse, or historic city stay.

These stone-built homes are often tucked away in peaceful rural areas, and they’ll offer a quiet escape with a touch of rustic charm with the sea in the background (literally in all directions!).

For those of you who prefer a bit more luxury, Malta also has a variety of high-end boutique hotels that offer everything from rooftop pools to breathtaking sea views.

These stylish spots blend modern design with old history, and they are often located in restored palaces or former noble homes.

Conclusion

In short, Malta offers the perfect blend of adventure, history, and stunning landscapes for those seeking a memorable walking holiday.

From coastal trails and ancient cities to delicious food and unique accommodations, there are truly a lot of fun things to do on this beautiful island.

Are you ready to check out the island of Malta?

Where to Next?

If Malta has inspired you to explore more Mediterranean and island walking destinations, nearby and further-afield routes offer coastal paths, historic towns, mountain views, and sea-facing trails.

Nearby or Related Destinations

• Walking Holidays in Italy – Explore coastal routes, hill towns, alpine trails, islands, and historic walking regions across Italy.
• Best Hikes in Greece – Discover island trails, coastal paths, mountain routes, ancient sites, and national parks.
• Rome: A City Guide for Hikers – Use Italy’s capital as a base for urban walks, parks, ancient routes, viewpoints, and cultural day trips.

Wider European Inspiration

• Walking Holidays in Portugal – Plan a walking trip through Atlantic coastlines, island trails, historic towns, and quiet countryside routes.
• Best Hikes in Switzerland – Explore alpine trails, lake paths, mountain passes, and classic high-altitude scenery.
• The Dingle Way – Follow one of Ireland’s most scenic long-distance routes through coastal villages, beaches, cliffs, and green countryside.