One-Week Malta Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Valletta to Mdina and Mellieha and surrounding area

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Malta. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Malta takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Valletta, 2 nights in Mdina, and 2 nights in Mellieha. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Malta. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Valletta, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Malta on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Malta. Mdina Gate and Upper Barrakka Gardens are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Popeye Village, learn more about the unique Triton Fountain, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of St. John's Co-cathedral.

As you hit the open road and drive through Valletta, Floriana, Mdina, Rabat, Dingli, Mellieha, Manikata, Marsaxlokk, and Marsascala, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Malta. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Malta.

Throughout your road trip in Malta, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Malta.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Malta fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Malta today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Upper Barrakka Gardens
Grandmaster Palace CourtyardSt. John's Co-CathedralNational Museum of ArchaeologyCity GateTriton FountainValletta Waterfront
St Paul's CathedralPalazzo FalsonSt. Paul's CathedralMdina GateMdina Old City FortessPjazza Mesquita
Domvs RomanaCasa BernardBasilica Kolleġġjata u Proto-Parroċċa ta' San PawlSt. Paul's CatacombsDingli CliffsIl-Buskett
MnajdraĦaġar QimParish Church of MelliehaThe Limestone Heritage, Park and Gardens
Popeye VillageGħadira Nature ReserveIt-Torri L-Aħmar (Red Tower)Golden Bay
Blue GrottoSt. Peter's PoolSant'Antnin Family Park
St Elmo Heritage building

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Valletta - Arrival day
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  • Upper Barrakka Gardens
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Your road trip adventure in Malta begins as soon as you reach Valletta and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Valletta for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Valletta is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Upper Barrakka Gardens, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Valletta. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Malta. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Valletta, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at King's Own Band Club Bar And Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Valletta. If you're eager to try something different, consider Cheeky Monkey Gastropub Valletta, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Pira Maltese Kitchen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Valletta this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Alchemy Cocktail Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Vino's Cafe Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Queen Victoria City Pub, Valletta offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Malta!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Valletta
  • More

Drive 3 km, 34 min

  • Grandmaster Palace Courtyard
  • St. John's Co-Cathedral
  • National Museum of Archaeology
  • City Gate
  • Triton Fountain
  • Valletta Waterfront
  • More

Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip in Malta. With 1 night left in Valletta, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Valletta, including a palace, a church, a museum, a historical landmark, a monument, a pier and much more! Start your day at Grandmaster Palace Courtyard. This UNESCO world heritage-designated palace is an often recommended place to see in Valletta. Then, wander over to St. John's Co-cathedral. If heritage-rich sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find National Museum Of Archaeology. This history-steeped museum is a favorite among visitors.

Valletta offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, City Gate is a well-known spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the historical landmark, don’t forget to check out the historic Triton Fountain. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this locally renowned monument. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Valletta's top attractions with a visit to Valletta Waterfront.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Valletta.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Valletta's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Don’t miss out on dining at Is-Suq Tal-Belt - Valletta Food Market, a top-rated dining destination in Valletta. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Nenu The Artisan Baker, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Trattoria di Mare Valletta. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Valletta this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Cafe Society. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Wild Honey provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Malta.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Valletta
  • Mdina
  • More

Drive 14 km, 35 min

  • St Paul's Cathedral
  • Palazzo Falson
  • St. Paul's Cathedral
  • Mdina Gate
  • Mdina Old City Fortess
  • Pjazza Mesquita
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip in Malta, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Valletta and Mdina. In the evening, you’ll end up in Mdina, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today's adventure in Valletta promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at St. Paul's Cathedral. This stunning church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Palazzo Falson, another gorgeous attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to St. Paul's Cathedral, one of the city’s most locally appreciated attractions, known for its breathtaking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Mdina Gate. This breathtaking historical landmark is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Mdina Old City Fortess, a frequently visited castle, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Pjazza Mesquita before you head back to your hotel.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Mdina, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Mdina. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Vinum Wine Bar & Bistro, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Fork and Cork restaurant - Malta? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Root 81 as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Mdina.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Malta.

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Mdina
  • More

Drive 11 km, 40 min

  • Domvs Romana
  • Casa Bernard
  • Basilica Kolleġġjata u Proto-Parroċċa ta' San Pawl
  • St. Paul's Catacombs
  • Dingli Cliffs
  • Il-Buskett
  • More

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Malta with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Mdina for your remaining 1 night in the town later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Mdina, Rabat, Dingli, and Siġġiewi.

Today’s agenda in Mdina includes an archeological site, a museum, a church, a cliff, a park and much more! Domvs Romana is must-visit archeological site and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Casa Bernard, a frequently visited museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Il-kolleġġjata U Proto-parroċċa Ta' San Pawl, a culturally significant church, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Mdina. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the locally appreciated St. Paul's Catacombs. If you’re looking for more, Dingli Cliffs is also a frequently visited attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Buskett Woodlands, a place of romantic interest in the town.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Mdina and your accommodation.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Mdina. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Coogi's Restaurant & Tea Garden, an iconic dining spot in Mdina. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Il-Veduta, a popular restaurant in Mdina. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Don Mesquita Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Mdina. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Malta!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Mdina
  • Mellieha
  • More

Drive 73 km, 2 hours

  • Mnajdra
  • Ħaġar Qim
  • Parish Church of Mellieha
  • The Limestone Heritage, Park and Gardens
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Malta. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Qrendi, Mellieha, and Siġġiewi. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Mellieha, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Mdina is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include an archeological site, a church, and a museum. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the curiosity-inducing Mnajdra and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Ħaġar Qim, a picture-perfect archeological site that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Parish Church Of Mellieha, one of the region’s most locally appreciated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the increasingly popular The Limestone Heritage, Park And Gardens.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Mellieha. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the village.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Mellieha. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the village, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ventuno Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ta' Randi restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Al Ponte Restaurant & Pizzeria. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Mellieha.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Charlie's Cavern, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Sea View Cafe/bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Malta!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Mellieha
  • More

Drive 25 km, 1 hour 15 min

  • Popeye Village
  • Għadira Nature Reserve
  • It-Torri L-Aħmar (Red Tower)
  • Golden Bay
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip in Malta, you’ll start and end your day in Mellieha, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the village. Since you will return to Mellieha for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Mellieha and Manikata to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Popeye Village. This locally renowned amusement park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Għadira Nature Reserve, one of the region’s best highlights.

Next, check out The Red Tower, one of the most beloved places to see in Mellieha. This castle is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Golden Bay. Wander around and soak in the mesmerizing atmosphere this beach offers.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Mellieha.

As you explore more of Mellieha, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Hermanos Burgers, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Mother India offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Solana Hotel & Spa is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Mellieha.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Malta.

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Mellieha
  • Valletta
  • More

Drive 56 km, 1 hour 42 min

  • Blue Grotto
  • St. Peter's Pool
  • Sant'Antnin Family Park
  • More

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Malta, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Qrendi, Marsaxlokk, and Marsascala. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Valletta, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the frequently visited Blue Grotto, a serene cave in Mellieha. Next, go to St. Peter's Pool.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Valletta. Valletta offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Valletta. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dine in style at Da’ Pippo Trattoria, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Yard 32 Gin & Tapas Bar boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out 67 Kapitali. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Valletta.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Ordnance Pub And Restuarant, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bridge Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Kamy Cocktail Bar Valletta provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Malta!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Valletta - Departure day
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  • St Elmo Heritage building
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Day 8 of your road trip in Malta is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Valletta before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at St. Elmo. This up-and-coming castle is a popular place to see in the city.

On your last day in Malta, take time to indulge in shopping at Valletta’s popular marketplace, Valletta Republic Street. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.

Before you conclude your road trip in Malta, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Valletta.

You’ll then say farewell to Valletta. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Malta!

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