Discover Malta like a local

Although Malta is one of the Mediterranean’s most popular destinations, it does not reveal all its secrets at once. Beyond Valletta’s ramparts and the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon, the archipelago has another side—wilder, quieter, and more authentic. Sometimes, all it takes is turning off the main road or pushing open a slightly rusty door to discover a different pace and an entirely different setting.

Before you head out to explore these overlooked corners, take a look at this short guide to learn everything you need to know before traveling to Malta, away from the crowds.

Let’s be honest: if you want to see more than the usual tourist postcard, you may have to walk a little or drive along a few bumpy roads. But the effort is more than worthwhile. Take Coral Lagoon, for example: a turquoise swimming hole surrounded by cliffs in the north of the island, near Mellieha. You reach it by following a dirt track and a short, steep path, but once you arrive, the sense of calm is absolute. No lounge chairs, no music—just the wind and the gentle sound of the water.

On Gozo, the Wied il-Ghasri fjord has a similar effect: an almost surreal setting, with a narrow ribbon of turquoise water tucked between two rock walls. Even at the height of summer, it remains relatively unspoiled.

Then there are the dramatic cliffs of western Malta, near Dingli. Less famous than the island’s classic viewpoints, the Ras id-Dawwara cliffs and the cliffs of Xaqqa, farther south, offer a rugged panorama that makes you feel small, suspended between sky and sea.

Once you leave Valletta or Sliema behind, Malta begins to feel very different. On Gozo, the village of San Lawrenz makes a good base: there is not much to do, and that is exactly what makes it so pleasant. People take the time to chat, dogs sleep in the shade of front porches, and the old stone buildings seem to hold stories that no guidebook could tell.

Nearby, the hamlet of Gharb feels as though it has been frozen in the 1960s. The church, the benches in the square, the old-fashioned shops—everything encourages you to slow down. You could spend an hour there, a full day, or even longer. No one will wonder what brought you there.

For something with a more hands-on feel, head to Ta’ Qali on the main island. This former military base has been transformed into a hub for glassblowers. They still shape glass using traditional methods, inside hangars filled with heat and the smell of fire. Few tourists make their way there, but it is well worth the detour.

For anyone looking for a place to swim without rows of umbrellas or organized tour groups, Ghar Lapsi is a rare find. This natural pool is tucked into the rocks, with clear water full of fish. It is ideal for snorkeling or simply enjoying a quiet swim, with no music and no $12 cocktails.

On Gozo, Hondoq Bay remains relatively unspoiled. It is a small white-sand beach bordered by crystal-clear water, with just a few families, two or three divers, and the soft sound of waves lapping the shore. You can spend hours there doing nothing but watching the water.

More adventurous visitors can seek out the hidden beach at Fomm Ir-Rih. You have to earn it: the descent is steep and somewhat demanding. Once you reach the bottom, however, it feels like the end of the world—a pebble cove framed by rugged cliffs, with no buildings or entertainment in sight. All you can hear are the cicadas and the waves.

Feel like changing the pace? Malta offers a few unexpected activities that feel worlds away from the usual bus tours. Try subwinging in Gozo, for example: holding on to a board towed behind a boat, you glide through the water like a dolphin. It is an exhilarating experience—and a welcome change from pedal boats.

For something more relaxing, try a sunset yoga session on Manoel Island. The setting is unlike any other, with ruins, the sea, and golden light all around you. Even if you have never stepped onto a yoga mat before, the experience is still memorable.

Finally, if you enjoy experiences that are a little unconventional, head to Paceville for a photo shoot beneath the neon lights. It is kitschy, certainly, but it embraces the look completely—and the results make for much more entertaining memories than another selfie in front of the cathedral.

It is entirely possible to experience a different side of Malta. All you need is a little curiosity, a willingness to improvise, and, above all, the desire to step beyond the usual itinerary. It is not about your budget or which guidebook you carry, but simply about taking a small detour. More often than not, that is where the best memories begin.

Written by Laura CALLES

Thanks to Mélanie and Sylvain, I had the chance to explore the beautiful Maltese archipelago and share all the beauty of its islands with you. A little piece of paradise not to be missed!

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