Malta, the Mediterranean’s best-kept secret, is often celebrated for its azure waters, ancient temples, and sun-drenched landscapes. But beyond the iconic spots like Valletta and the Blue Lagoon, this archipelago hides a treasure trove of lesser-known gems that are just waiting to be discovered. Whether it’s secluded bays, ancient coastal towers, or quiet parish churches, Malta has so much more to offer to the curious traveler who loves to explore beyond the beaten path. Here’s a guide to some of Malta’s hidden gems that will make you fall in love with the islands even more. 🌊🏛️✨

Sights

• Mosta Rotunda (Rotunda of St Marija Assunta): One of Malta’s most impressive churches, the Mosta Rotunda has the third-largest unsupported dome in the world! What makes this place extra special is its wartime story—a bomb pierced the dome during a WWII service but miraculously didn’t explode. Talk about divine intervention! The church is a symbol of Maltese resilience and faith, and its stunning interior will leave you in awe.
• Il-Ħofra l-Kbira: This secluded bay in the south of Malta is the perfect escape for those seeking serenity. Carved into the cliffs by natural forces, Il-Ħofra l-Kbira feels like a world away from the bustling tourist spots. While it’s a bit tricky to reach, the reward is a secluded cove with crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkeling and soaking in the beauty of Malta’s rugged coastline. Bring a picnic and make a day of it!
• Qrendi Parish Church: Nestled in the quiet village of Qrendi, this baroque parish church is dedicated to the Assumption of Mary. While it may seem like just another church at first glance, it is a focal point of local life and the epicenter of village festas (festivals). The annual festa is an explosion of fireworks, music, and local traditions, and the church itself is beautifully lit up, creating a magical atmosphere.
• Ħaġar Qim: Travel back 5,000 years when you visit the Neolithic temple complex of Ħaġar Qim. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the sea, these ancient stones are some of the oldest freestanding structures in the world, older than Stonehenge! The alignment of the temples with the summer solstice is just one of many mysteries surrounding this UNESCO World Heritage site. Whether you're a history buff or just love exploring ancient places, Ħaġar Qim is a must.
• Tal-Ħamrija Coastal Tower: Built by the Knights of St. John in the 17th century, this coastal watchtower stands guard over the rugged cliffs near Qrendi. Although not as popular as other coastal towers, Tal-Ħamrija offers some of the best views of the Mediterranean, with sunsets that are absolutely Instagram-worthy. It’s a quiet, off-the-beaten-path spot to reflect on Malta’s rich history of maritime defense.
• Ras il-Ħamrija: If you love hiking and scenic views, Ras il-Ħamrija offers one of Malta’s most stunning coastal trails. This cliffside path takes you along the southwestern coast, where you can enjoy the raw beauty of Malta’s rugged landscape and the endless blue of the sea. It’s peaceful, breathtaking, and a refreshing break from the more crowded tourist areas. Don’t forget your camera!
• Mnajdra: Just a short walk from Ħaġar Qim, you’ll find Mnajdra—another prehistoric temple complex that is equally as fascinating. With its intricately carved stones and celestial alignments, Mnajdra feels like a gateway to another time. The temples are aligned with the equinoxes, and visiting during sunrise or sunset adds an extra layer of magic to this ancient place.
• Victoria Lines: Nicknamed the “Great Wall of Malta,” the Victoria Lines stretch across the island, dividing the more urbanized south from the rural north. Built by the British in the 19th century, the lines are an impressive feat of military engineering and offer some of the best hiking trails in Malta. With panoramic views of the island and the Mediterranean beyond, this is a great spot for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
• Coral Lagoon: If you’re up for a bit of an adventure, the Coral Lagoon near Mellieha is a natural wonder you don’t want to miss. This sea cave, with its perfectly round opening, is a hidden spot that’s best explored by kayak. Paddling into the lagoon feels like entering a secret world, with crystal-clear waters and dramatic rock formations surrounding you. It’s one of Malta’s most underrated natural sights!
• Ghajnsielem Parish Church (Our Lady of Loreto Church): Over on Gozo, Ghajnsielem Parish Church dominates the skyline of this sleepy village. The church’s Gothic Revival architecture is striking, and inside, you’ll find beautiful stained glass windows and serene spaces for reflection. Ghajnsielem is also a great base for exploring Gozo, especially if you love quiet, authentic villages.
• Rotunda of St. John the Baptist (Xewkija Rotunda): Gozo’s most impressive church, the Xewkija Rotunda, boasts the third-largest dome in Europe! The sheer scale of this structure is jaw-dropping, and climbing to the top offers incredible views of the island. Inside, the church is equally stunning, with a marble altar and beautiful artworks. You might feel like you’ve stumbled upon a hidden masterpiece!
• Xwejni Bay Beach: For a more peaceful beach experience, head to Xwejni Bay in Żebbuġ, Gozo. With its small pebbled beach and dramatic cliffs, it’s perfect for a quiet day by the sea. The nearby salt pans add a unique touch to the landscape, and you can watch local salt farmers continuing the centuries-old tradition of harvesting sea salt.
• Wied il-Għasri: This picturesque gorge on Gozo is a hidden gem perfect for those looking for a serene swimming spot. The narrow inlet winds its way between high cliffs, creating a stunning natural pool. The water is crystal-clear and ideal for snorkeling, and because it’s off the beaten path, it’s rarely crowded. It feels like your own private slice of paradise!
• Dwejra Inland Sea: Although the famous Azure Window is no more, the Dwejra Inland Sea is still one of Gozo’s most beautiful natural attractions. This lagoon, connected to the sea by a narrow cave, is perfect for swimming, diving, and boat trips. Surrounded by towering cliffs, the inland sea has a unique, tranquil atmosphere, and it’s a great place to explore if you want to experience the quieter side of Gozo.
• Wardija Punic Temple: Hidden in the rural countryside of Wardija, this ancient Punic temple dates back over 2,000 years. While much of the site remains unexcavated, it’s a fascinating glimpse into Malta’s pre-Roman past. The temple sits atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding farmland and the sea beyond.

Good to Know

• Language: Maltese and English are both official languages, and nearly everyone you meet will speak English fluently. Learning a few Maltese phrases, however, will earn you extra points with the locals!
• Currency: Malta uses the Euro (€). Most places accept credit cards, but it’s a good idea to carry cash, especially in more rural areas and for smaller transactions.
• Getting Around: Malta has a reliable public bus system that reaches most of the island, but renting a car or scooter will give you more flexibility, especially if you want to explore the more hidden spots. Be mindful that driving is on the left!

Getting There

• By Air: Malta International Airport is the main gateway to the islands, with direct flights from many European cities. From the airport, buses, taxis, and car rentals are available to take you to your accommodation.
• By Ferry: If you’re planning to visit Gozo, ferries depart regularly from Cirkewwa on Malta’s northern tip. The ferry ride is quick (about 25 minutes) and offers beautiful views of the islands.

Best Time to Travel

Malta is blessed with over 300 days of sunshine a year, so there’s really no bad time to visit. That said, the best time to explore Malta’s hidden gems is in the shoulder seasons—spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November)—when the weather is warm but not too hot, and the crowds are smaller. Summer (July and August) can be very hot, especially inland, but it’s perfect for beach lovers. Winter (December to February) is mild, but many outdoor attractions can feel a little quieter during this time.

For Foodies

• Rabbit Stew (Fenkata): Malta’s national dish is fenkata, a hearty rabbit stew cooked with wine, garlic, and herbs. It’s a must-try if you want to experience traditional Maltese flavors.
• Pastizzi: A popular Maltese snack, pastizzi are flaky pastries filled with ricotta cheese or mushy peas. They’re cheap, delicious, and perfect for munching on the go.
• Lampuki Pie: If you visit in autumn, you might be lucky enough to try lampuki pie. This savory pie is made with a local fish (lampuki), vegetables, and pastry—perfect for a hearty lunch after a day of exploring.
• Seafood: Given Malta’s location in the middle of the Mediterranean, it’s no surprise that seafood is a major part of the local cuisine. Head to Marsaxlokk fishing village for the freshest catch of the day!

Malta’s hidden gems offer a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that’s just waiting to be uncovered. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, swimming in crystal-clear lagoons, or wandering through quiet villages, these lesser-known spots are sure to leave you spellbound. 🌞🌊