Malta Island is the largest island and main population centre of Malta.

Towns

• 1 Valletta — the capital, named for Jean Parisot de la Valette, a French nobleman who was Grand Master of the Order of St. John and leader of the defenders during the Turkish siege of Malta in 1565.
• 2 Buġibba — a popular tourist resort, with nice beaches, bars and such but no historical and sightseeing attractions.
• 3 Cottonera (Three Cities) — the name used when referring to the three historic and ancient cities of Birgu (aka Vittoriosa), Isla (aka Senglea) and Bormla (aka Cospicua), three towns conglomerated by 16th century fortifications called the Cottonera lines.
• 4 Marsaxlokk — fishing village south of the island
• 5 Marsaskala — an enchanting promenade ensures you a pleasant evening here
• 6 Mellieħa – a locality surrounded by the largest and some of the most wonderful sandy beaches on the island
• 7 Mdina — Malta's well-preserved quiet old capital. pronounced 'im-dina'
• 8 Mġarr
• 9 Mosta — the 3rd largest city (in terms of population) in Malta.
• 10 Qawra — a neighbor of Buġibba with a few more sightseeing attractions.
• 11 Rabat — hosts numerous historical attractions such as St. Paul's catacombs and the Roman Villa
• 12 St. Julian's — perfect area for nightlife & entertainment
• 13 San Ġwann
• 14 Sliema
• 15 Żabbar

Other destinations

• 1 Golden Bay (Il-Mixquqa) – one of Malta's most beautiful sandy beaches, on the northwest coast of the island.
• Northern Harbor of Malta
• Southern Harbor of Malta

Get in

1 Malta International Airport (MLA ^IATA) is at Luqa, see Malta#Get in.

Ferries sail from Sicily to Valletta and frequently from Gozo to Cirkewwa on the north tip of Malta island.

Get around

The old rattlers of the 1990s were replaced with new air-conditioned coaches. Public transport on Malta covers much of the island and is cheap. It can get crowded in busy times though, with locals and holiday makers, depending on the route. Fares for non-residents are €1.50 (winter) or €2 (summer) for a 2-hour ticket (but you can buy 12 trips in advance for €15) and €21 for a 7-day ticket; all these permit one to travel any distance on any routes within the validity period, including on Gozo.

See

• 1 Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples (updated Dec 2019)

Do

Malta Island has some excellent beaches, perfect for a day of sunbathing or water sports. Fine examples include:

Golden Bay and Għajn Tuffieħa

The Golden Bay and Għajn Tuffieħa are two adjoining bays carved in the coastline of northwestern Malta. Golden Bay is probably the most popular beach in the area and attracts people of all kinds. And for good reason, as you'll find everything you need for a day at the beach: perfect sands, some pleasant beach clubs and a good range of water sports activities. The water is good for swimming, water skiing, banana rides and (when the waves allow) boogie boarding. Red flags will warn you if strong currents are present. Għajn Tuffieħa boasts similar attractions but is slightly less crowded, possibly because of the long stairs leading to its sands. The beaches are easily reachable by car and a parking is a available. Alternatively, regular bus services run to and from towns in the region. Take bus 44 from Valetta or bus 223 and 224 from Bugibba. If you're not on a budget, you can also stay or eat at the beach in the 5-star Radisson Blu hotel, considered one of the best in the country.

Buy

Malta uses the euro.

Stay safe

There was a little rowdiness in the St Julians area a few decades ago but Malta is now generally very safe and is a quiet, family destination.