5 Reasons to Travel to Malta in 2026

Malta is a popular tourist destination because of its rich history and picturesque location. Even in photos, one can feel the seemingly magical air which surrounds the island. Along the island, small ships dot the coastline, along with sprawling bodies of water and enthralling architecture which have made Malta the fourth most visited place in Southern Europe in recent years.

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What’s Inside

1. There’s Always a Celebration in Malta
2. The Food is Unforgettable
3. There Are Tons of Amazing Places to Explore
4. The Cultural Heritage is Rich
5. Diverse Landscapes Cater to Every Type of Traveler

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At its peak within the past decade, Malta saw 2.56 million first-time visitors and around 697,100 repeat tourists. These statistics are staggering for a country with a population of just over half-million people! There’s a reason people want to experience the beauty of an island with a capital fondly referred to as the “Most Proud.” Here are five of Malta’s offerings that may intrigue you to see what it’s all about in 2026. 

1. There’s Always a Celebration in Malta

Despite being home to sleepy villages and relaxed shorelines, excitement is in high supply in Malta. There are plenty of joyous festivals and celebrations that keep things lively on the sunny island. For instance, there’s the Malta Jazz Festival for music lovers, the Valletta Carnival to get those moves going, and a host of year-round village fiestas to celebrate local communities and traditions. If you go during the summer, you will see plenty of local feasts. A popular one is the Feast of Assumption, which is a celebration of the ascension of the Virgin Mary and involves a whole week of live concerts, parades, and fascinating fireworks displays. Even if you happen to visit at a time without an active festival going on, you’ll find that Malta’s vibrant nightlife offers more than enough to satiate a thirst for partying. 

2. The Food is Unforgettable

You can’t go wrong with Malta if you’re seeking out a fulfilling gastronomic adventure. The culinary scene is vibrant, extensive, and bursting with a variety of flavours that you have to try. If you’ve never heard of stuffat tal-fenek, gbejniet, or kapunata, now is the time to take the plunge and dive into a meal you won’t soon forget. It also doesn’t hurt that Malta is known for its delectable selection of wines and cheeses. Because the island’s culinary landscape is so popular with tourists, you can easily find spots in major hubs like Valletta that cater to travelers primarily using credit cards on their trip. Of course, you’ll want to keep some physical cash handy so you can try out local delights from markets and stalls fresh from farms.  

3. There Are Tons of Amazing Places to Explore

If you’re trying to get away from the busy life of the city and want to find exciting places to explore, you’re looking at the right place. Malta isn’t just about the breathtaking views and breezy beaches for which most tourists come. There are plenty of cool natural sites worth visiting, spaces with stunning architecture, and hidden gems you can find in the seas and in high rockfaces. You won’t find yourself feeling like things are boring or repetitive as you explore a country that perfectly blends the old world and the new. From the Blue Lagoon to Zurrieq, and flitting from Melliena to Mdina, the only problem you might face is choosing where you want to go. 

4. The Cultural Heritage is Rich

There are plenty of places to see and things to learn in Malta that will definitely appeal to those that like to immerse themselves in the culture of the places to which they travel. From age-old temples and ancient cities to UNESCO World Heritage Sites and historical landmarks, there’s much to ingest. Malta is generally easy to get around, but truly getting into its history and culture is much more doable now that geographer Carlos Canas has been making headway with his Walking Malta initiative meant to improve the island’s walkability. Whatever means of transport you choose, chances are you won’t regret the destination. 

5. Diverse Landscapes Cater to Every Type of Traveler

Not all travelers have the same priorities. Some people want to meet other travelers, while others like to go it alone. You might be a thrill-seeker searching for adventure or you could just be visiting for some rest and relaxation. Whatever you want to do, you’ll find that Malta is the best setting for it. Just look at how Malta is known for its many wine tours that let you taste the best juice of the vine with ease. At the same time, it is also home to some of the most captivating yet adrenaline-inducing scuba dive sites like Gozo’s Blue Hole which joins many other bewitching underwater sinkholes that dot the globe. 

Wrap Up

Have you visited Malta before, or would you like to? Let me know in the comments down below. I must admit. Before this submission, Malta wasn’t a country I knew much about, but now it has been added to my ever-growing bucket list! If you’d like to submit an article to Adventures from Elle, please fill out this form. Check out my favourite excursions on GetYourGuide, and if it’s your first GetYourGuide excursion, download the app then send me a DM for my discount code to take 5% off. Lastly, remember to subscribe by email for new posts on Adventures from Elle. ‘Til next time.

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