Malta Holidays

Irish holidaymakers love Malta for its secret weapon, its brilliant flexibility. Whether you're looking for a holiday focused on adventure, culture, pure beach-side relaxation, great foods and wines, or a lively mix of all the above, this sunny archipelago of islands always comes up trumps. For Irish holidaymakers, it’s the ideal blend of familiarity and good times, without the hassles of long flights and tiring connections. Flights from Dublin to Malta are direct and take just over 3.5 hours - families with kids will love this.

For Families, Malta is a real winner. Beyond the safe, shallow bays like Mellieha and Golden Bay, there are plenty of ways to keep the kids happy day after day. Children especially love the Mdina Dungeons, the National Aquarium, the Malta Experience audio-visual show, the Playmobil Fun Park, the Splash & Fun Water Park, and the quirky Popeye Village. Plus, many of the island's hotels offer fantastic kids' clubs. The island's compact size means you’re there's no need to travel for hours getting where you want to be.

Malta and Gozo offer the perfect backdrop for any romantic getaway. Picture a private dghajsa (traditional boat) tour of Valletta’s harbours at sunset, a wine-tasting evening in a rustic Gozo farmhouse, or a stroll through the serene Silent City of Mdina after dark. Indulge in a spa day overlooking the Med or book a table at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Malta offers countless intimate moments with stunning scenery.

If you're travelling with a large family group or a gang of friends, you'll want to keep the party going all day and all night. Why not start your day with a jeep safari or quad-bike tour around Gozo’s rugged coastline. Charter a boat for the day to explore Comino’s caves and the Blue Lagoon. The Three Cities offer fantastic kayaking tours right beneath the ancient fortifications. Then, as evening falls, the options explode, from craft cocktail bars in Valletta and harbour-side pints in Sliema to the buzzing nightclubs and live music venues of Paceville in St. Julian’s. After such adventures and excitement you'll probably want to plan the next day as a beach day at any of the island's great locations.

If you like your holiday with a pinch of culture, and you're looking for more than a sun-lounger and a lobster tan, Malta is a super choice. Walk the Victoria Lines for epic ridge-top views, or explore Gozo’s coastal paths like the stunning Dahlet Qorrot. Dive world-renowned wrecks like the UM El Faroud or the Blue Hole. Explore hidden gems like the medieval G?ar il-Kbir cart ruts or the tranquil Buskett Woodland, Malta’s only forest.

For Irish visitors, the direct flights, the left-hand driving, and the use of the English language make logistics a breeze. But it’s the Maltese people's spirit, their friendliness, their love of a good chat, and their vibrant community life, that feels instantly familiar and welcoming to the

Irish. You’ll find fantastic local pubs, a strong sporting culture, and a shared sense of humour.

Malta doesn’t ask you to choose between a beach holiday, a city break, or an adventure. It easily combines them all, letting you create the perfect holiday jigsaw, piece by sunny piece.

Visitors to Malta are usually pleasantly surprised how much there is to do and see on the islands. Sure, you can have a great beach holiday, taste totally unique foods, swim in unbelievably clear seas, and party the night away, but Malta also has a unique place in history that you'll be reminded about everywhere you go.

The Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, is an amazing, 5,000-year-old underground burial that was only discovered in 1902. The complex is made up of an ornately carved labyrinth of halls, chambers and passages stretching over 500 metres. And, above ground, be sure not to miss the Tarxien Temples, with their intricate and delicate stone carvings.

If you love history, you'll want to explore the Roman Domus in Rabat, home to stunning ancient mosaics, or the atmospheric St. Paul’s Catacombs nearby. For another quirky slice of history, visit the Lascaris War Rooms, the WWII secret Allied headquarters hidden beneath the streets of Valletta.

With so much water on your doorstep, why not try stand-up paddle boarding in the sheltered Marsamxett Harbour or kayak around the stunning coastline of Gozo’s south shore. For walkers, the dramatic Dingli Cliffs offer breathtaking sea views, while the Majjistral Nature and History Park offers winding rugged trails, the home to unique species of wildflowers and vegetation. Birdwatchers should head to the G?adira Nature Reserve, especially during the spring and autumn migration where it's possible to spot birds from over 45 countries.

Car enthusiasts will love the Malta Classic Car Collection, or for something completely different, visit the Toy Museum in Valletta or the fascinating Aviation Museum in Ta’ Qali. Art lovers have to visit the modern collections at MU?A (the National Museum of Fine Arts) and the stunning installations inside the Sacra Infermeria.

If you want to see what the locals get up to, time your visit for a village festa (feast), a spectacular explosion of music, fireworks, and community spirit. Visit Ta’ Dbie?i Craft Village in Gozo to see artisans making lace, glass, and jewellery, and watch traditional boat-building at the Maritime Museum in Birgu along with the iconic luzzu boats being crafted in Marsaxlokk.

Or, why not take a thrilling speedboat tour around the islands’ southern cliffs and sea caves. Ride the iconic Barrakka Lift for a stunning view, or for the best panorama, head to the top of the Malta Sky Club. And if you happen to have green thumbs, explore the lush San Anton Gardens and the adjacent Presidential Palace. And finally, don’t miss the charming, hidden Baron’s Garden in Birkirkara.

For families, when the kids have had enough of swimming and beaches (if that's possible), let them run wild at the Malta National Aquarium or the Esplora Interactive Science Centre. Meet the creatures at the Bird Park Malta or enjoy the playgrounds and mini-train at Kennedy Grove. For a unique cinema experience, catch a show at the Spazju Kreattiv or the open-air Garden Cinema in summer.

From the pages of a history book to the thrill of the sea, your daily itinerary will literally write itself. The only problem you'll have is trying to fit is all in.

Malta’s coastline has a huge variety of swimming spots. While you'll find beautiful stretches of soft, golden sand perfect for families, the islands are also famed for their dramatic rocky inlets and crystal-clear, turquoise waters, offering much more than just a 'dip in the ocean'.

To help you find your perfect place in the sun and sea, here’s a guide to the top beaches and iconic swimming locations across Malta, Gozo, and Comino.

• Golden Bay - One of Malta’s most famous sandy beaches, much admired for its broad stretch of golden sand, great facilities, and spectacular sunset views.
• Mellie?a Bay (G?adira) - This is Malta’s longest sandy beach, featuring incredibly gentle, shallow waters that make it the top choice for families with children.
• G?ajn Tuffie?a Bay - A picturesque, red-sand cove accessed by a long staircase, offering a more rustic and scenic alternative to its busier neighbour, Golden Bay.
• St. Peter’s Pool (Delimara) - Close to Marsaxlokk you'll find a natural limestone platform that create a series of deep, clear pools perfect of swimming.
• Paradise Bay - This pretty, sandy beach tucked into a cove on Malta’s northernmost tip, offers stunning views of Comino and Gozo.
• Ramla Bay (Gozo) - Gozo’s most famous beach stands out for its unique red sand and calm, clear waters, backed up by the legend of Calypso’s Cave.
• The Blue Lagoon (Comino) - This world-famous location is famed for its turquoise shallow waters, and white sandy seabed. The swim experience of a lifetime.
• Wied il-G?asri (Gozo) - A dramatic, narrow sea valley (fjord) leading to a secluded pebble beach, offering incredibly tranquil swimming in deep, blue waters.
• Fomm ir-Ri? - This rugged pebble beach is surrounded by high cliffs, and is accessed by a rough path offering wild, unspoilt beauty.
• G?ar Lapsi - A series of sheltered, natural pools with a small concrete platform, popular with locals for sunbathing and swimming in calm, clear waters.
• Hondoq ir-Rummien (Gozo) - Facing the island of Comino, this is a family-friendly, sheltered cove with a small sandy/pebble beach and incredibly calm waters.
• Armier Bay & Little Armier - Situated in the north, this is a favourite with the locals; featuring two adjoining sandy beaches with very shallow, warm waters.

From family-friendly golden beaches to secluded rocky coves, Malta’s coastline has a beach or swimming spot for every mood. Do your research and discover your own slice of Mediterranean paradise, where the water is always stunningly clear and whispers, 'come on in'.

If you want to get to know more about Malta, you must taste it and experience its local rhythm of life. Thankfully, Irish holidaymakers have long known that this is where a holiday becomes an authentic life experience, moving beyond the expected and into the beating heart of island life and community spirit.

When it comes to food, Maltese cuisine is a delicious recipe crafted from its long and varied history. To try describe the tastes of the islands, some have called it rustic, sun-kissed, and full of character. Once you've tasted the island's beloved pastizzi (traditional, flaky savoury pastries filled with ricotta cheese, curried peas, and even spinach or beef), seek out ftira (the local crusty bread topped with tomatoes, capers, and tuna), bigilla (a garlicky bean pâté), and aljotta (a heavily fragrant fish soup). The star of many a local Sunday lunch is fenkata (delicious, slow-cooked rabbit stew). For a true local feast, book a table at a ‘mgiebah’ (a small, usually family-run eating house) in a village like Mgarr or Marsaxlokk, where the day’s catch is simply grilled with olive oil and lemon. Simple and always super tasty.

You'd be well advised to do a little research and try to time your visit to coincide with a village festa. These patron saint celebrations stand at the summit of Maltese community spirit. The streets explode with colour, marching band music, and breathtaking (and loud) fireworks. It’s a joyous, immersive spectacle, and will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. For a quieter cultural moment, visit during the Holy Week processions, a solemn and moving tradition, or enjoy the Malta Arts Festival, with open-air performances in historic venues that run throughout the summer months.

For a real hands-on day experiencing local crafts, visit Ta’ Dbie?i Craft Village in Gozo to watch glassblowers and lace makers at work. Join a guided foraging walk to learn about local edible plants, or take a traditional cooking class in a rural farmhouse.

To really appreciate the pace of ‘Maltese time’ relax with a leisurely afternoon coffee in a band club in a village square, watching life go by. And just in case you don't know, band clubs serve as the holders of Maltese traditions where the island's cultural heritage is celebrated, kept alive, and passed down through the generations. And finally - if you've had enough of busy night-time bars and clubs - finish off your day, not at a bar, but at a ‘kazin’ (social club), where you're likely to find a group of locals debating the day’s events over a quiet pint - doesn't that sound familiar?

Getting to know the culture and traditions of Malta is where memories are made. Sharing a plate of local food, feeling the bass drum of a festa march in your chest, or learning a family recipe passed down through generations. And what's more, you'll probably make lifelong friends along the way.

A little planning is the key to a perfectly smooth Maltese holiday - know before you go, isn't that what they say? Here are a few tips to add to your checklist that'll help make sure you can relax the moment you touch down.

Direct flights from Dublin to Malta International Airport (MLA) take just over 3.5 hours. Upon arrival, you’ll find a range of car hire options - highly recommended for exploring - as well as reliable taxi and pre-booked transfer services. For getting around locally, the tallinja card offers value on buses, and if you want to visit the neighbouring islands, ferry services to Gozo and Comino are frequent. Remember, all travellers need a valid passport with at least six months remaining beyond your planned departure date.

When thinking about money, it's good to know that Malta uses the Euro. While credit and debit cards (especially Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, it’s wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments, taxis, village markets, and festa street vendors. ATMs are readily available in most towns.

As with any holiday, we strongly advise taking out comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and loss or theft of belongings.

When you're filling your suitcase with all the necessities, try to think practically and be sun-smart. Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable for exploring historic, cobbled streets. The sun is strong, so pack a wide-brimmed hat, high-factor sunscreen, and sunglasses. For ladies visiting churches and the Mdina Cathedral, packing a light scarf or shawl to cover the shoulders is the respectful thing to do. While beachwear is for the coast, a smart-casual wardrobe is perfect for evenings. Don’t forget an Irish-to-European plug adapter (Type G) and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.

If you plan on renting a car, it's good to know for Irish visitors that they drive on the left just like back home, but be prepared for narrow, winding roads (just like back home). A full, valid driving licence is required.

Book popular restaurants, diving trips, and guides for the Hypogeum in advance if you can, especially in peak season. While English is universally spoken, learning a few Maltese words like "grazzi" (thank you) is always appreciated.

Finally, embrace the local pace of life - like in all Mediterranean regions, things can move a little slower here, so relax and enjoy it. That’s what you’re on holiday for.

With these essentials covered, you’re all set for a seamless and stress-free Maltese adventure.

If any have any particular concerns or questions about travelling to Malta from Ireland, the experts at Cassidy Travel have all the hands-on knowledge you need to help make your stay unforgettable.