A view of Valletta, Malta's capital from the water

Things to Do in Malta As A Couple

07 Mar 2019 By Adele Grant
A view of Valletta, Malta's capital from the water

Malta may not automatically come to mind when you think of a couples holiday, but this cultural gem is full of beauty. Forget cliches like kisses on the Eiffel Tower and gondola rides in Venice, this country’s many charms stretch far beyond that.

From incredible gardens to golden coastlines and cities crammed with history, they’ll be plenty of romance in store. So, show your partner just how much you love them and discover the top things to do in Malta as a couple.

Ghajn Tuffieha Beach

A view of Ghajn Tuffieha Beach with azure waters and greenery backing the sand.

Location: This much-loved spot forms part of Manikata Village, which can be found in Mellieha.

What makes it perfect for couples? What better place to lay your towel than the sands of one of Malta’s most beautiful beaches. With reddish grains, azure waters and a coating of greenery backing the coastline, make sure you pack your camera.

This natural paradise isn’t the easiest to access with a set of steps leading you down to the shore. But its hard-to-reach location and untouched appearance is a lure for couples seeking peaceful days in the sun.

Less tourists hitting its golden sands means lovers can take advantage of its secluded vibe. Whether you choose to sunbathe, take a gentle stroll or bathe in its warm waters –

you won’t have to worry about being disturbed by hoards of holidaymakers. Ghajn Tuffieha can get a little busier during peak season, but it never feels overrun.

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How to get here? Depending where you’re travelling from, getting here is fairly straightforward. If you’re driving, you’ll need to follow the road signs to Cirkewwa and Mellieha, which will bring you to a main road overlooking St. Paul’s Bay. The following roundabout is where you’ll need to look out for signs to Ghajn Tuffieha and Golden Bay.

Best for: Relaxation

Top tip: For an extra special experience, head here at sunset. Pack a picnic and watch as the sky slowly changes colour – and if you’re lucky, you may even get the sand to yourself.

Romantic hotels close by:

Solana Hotel & Spa: This swanky 4 star stay places you in a prime location in Mellieha, meaning you’re not far from the sands of Ghajn Tuffieha Beach. Fitted with luxury interiors throughout, it’s a great place to relax with a rooftop pool, stunning spa and spacious rooms.

Maritim Antonine Hotel And Spa: Breathtaking views, first-class dining options and a spa compete with a bubbling whirlpool, Maritim Antonine makes for the perfect couples getaway. With three pools to choose from, one of which is indoor, there’s plenty of opportunities to soak up those warm Malta rays.

Pergola Hotel and Spa: Ideally placed overlooking the islands of Gozo and Comino, Pergola Hotel is a fantastic spot for visiting Ghajn Tuffieha Beach. Spend relaxing days with your loved one around the pool or head to the spa and enjoy a well-deserved pampering session.

The Island of Gozo

A sun-filled view of the Island of Gozo with yachts in the sitting in the water and beautiful buildings peering in the distance.

Location: Sitting just across the water from the north west of Malta, Gozo is known as the country’s sister island.

What makes it perfect for couples? Lovebirds rejoice, Gozo is a date night heaven. Walk hand in hand taking in its beauty as you wander its tight alleyways or marvel at the island’s centrepiece – Cittadella. Marking the spot’s medieval history, you can’t miss it!

By day, couples will adore the picturesque village of Xlendi where you can take advantage of its idyllic ripples as well as diving and snorkelling adventures. As for evenings, head to the many bars and restaurants that peer out to sea and settle in for the night.

How to get here? Hop on the ferry from Malta, it will only take you 20 minutes.

Best for: Candlelit dinners

Top tip: Looking to impress? We highly recommend booking a sunset boat trip around the island of Gozo. Not only is this a great way to see the island, but those last rays of sunshine bouncing off the Mediterranean will have you falling in love all over again.

Blue Grotto

The Blue Grotto in Malta and its stunning Mediterranean water surroundings

Location: This extraordinary site sits on Malta’s lesser-known southern side, close to Zurrieq and then Qrendi Village.

What makes it perfect for couples? With holidaymakers travelling from all over the island to catch a glimpse of this natural wonder, its captivating beauty is undeniable. And you can’t miss it – its limestone arch is 30 metres high, while its colours are astonishing with the sky reflecting off the ocean floor. Not to mention the surrounding waters give off turquoise hues.

A trip to this cave system wouldn’t be complete without stopping at the aptly named Honeymoon Cave due to its temple-like appearance. Not so many years ago newlyweds would come here to swim in its waters or have dinner as part of a tradition.

This must-see attraction is also famed for its stunning marine life, with underwater adventures proving extremely popular. Often considered one of Malta’s best dive sites, joint expeditions come highly recommended.

How to get here? A boat tour is your best bet when it comes to accessing Blue Grotto. Sailing from the small harbour of Wied iż-Żurrieq, enjoy stunning ocean views along the way. Those travelling from elsewhere, may prefer to drive or hop on a bus as this is also fairly straightforward.

Best for: Natural beauty and diving

Top tip: Want to capture the perfect couples selfie? We suggest heading to the viewing platform near the main road. Here, you can admire the site’s limestone arch in all its glory.

Upper Barrakka Gardens

The stunning Upper Barrakka Gardens with beautiful views out to sea

Location: This stunning landmark sits on a hill in Malta’s capital Valletta.

What makes it perfect for couples? It doesn’t get much more magical than the views from Upper Barrakka Gardens. A trip to this famous vantage point should top your list of romantic things to do in Malta with the whole of the city on display.

Enjoy a peaceful atmosphere come nightfall or head here at noon and witness the cannon salute over the Grand Harbour – a spectacular sight to behold. While, the gardens themselves are the perfect place to steal a kiss with everything from statues to fountains and flower beds surrounding you.

How to get here? If you’re not staying in Valletta, most buses will go to the island’s main bus station, which is located close to the city’s gate. If you don’t fancy walking up to the gardens, you can take the lift, which costs around one euro per person.

Best for: Amazing views

Top tip: As one of the capital’s most popular attractions, it can get extremely busy here. So, if you want to experience the spot’s extraordinary beauty to yourselves, we suggest heading here in the evening when the majority of day-trippers have left.

Open until 10pm, take in starlit views of the Grand Harbour as you cosy up next to that someone special.

Romantic hotels close by:

Grand Hotel Excelsior: With Valletta’s many charms on your doorstep, this 5 star property is the perfect pick for couples. Everything has an elegant feel, especially the ideally placed pool which overlooks Marsamxett Harbour.

Osborne Hotel: Set right in the heart of Valletta, the rooftop pool is its biggest draw with fantastic views of the city. Recently refurbished, its rooms have a fresh feel, while the Lounge Bar is the place to grab cocktails.

Hotel Phoenicia: This hotel’s central location is a huge part of its appeal as are its 1920s interiors. Set among seven acres of gardens, your terrace vistas are beautiful. When it comes to food, Hotel Phoenicia lives up to its 5 star rating with delectable dishes tempting your taste buds.

Mdina Old City

A view of the Mdina Old City and its medieval buildings against a blue sky backdrop

Location: This fortified medieval town can be found on a large hill in the centre of Malta.

What makes it perfect for couples? As a important piece of Malta’s lengthy history and its former capital, Mdina Old City comes with a sense of awe. Walk hand in hand down its pedestrianised cobbles illuminated by old fashioned street lamps as you admire the intricacies of the Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul

Meanwhile, its elevated location means you get to witness unbeatable views of Malta’s scenic surroundings. Nicknamed the ‘Silent City’ due to its strict rules on noise, lovers can enjoy an undisturbed city experience with only a few cars and bikes allowed in its walls.

It’s also worth mentioning that this hotspot is one of the finest examples of a walled city in Europe, a real draw for history loving couples. From it’s stunning Main Gate complete with ramparts and bastions to one of the city’s oldest buildings housing 17th century paintings – there’s no end to the ancient attractions in this Maltese jewel.

How to get here? There are plenty of buses which stop at Mdina Old City. And if you’re travelling from Valletta station, you can catch a bus every 20 minutes.

Best for: History lovers

Top tip: Head here on a clear day for the best sights. That’s right, if you time your visit right you may just witness Sicily appearing in the distance.

Valletta Waterfront

The striking Valletta Waterfront surrounded by shimmering azure waters, Malta

Location: This famous promenade can be found in Malta’s capital city Valletta.

What makes it perfect for couples? After being heavily destroyed during World War II, this laid-back focal point is a fascinating mix of old and new. With the Grand Harbour as your backdrop, this is an ideal spot for leisurely strolls with that someone special.

Packed with bars and restaurants, ideally facing the water, this is the perfect destination for al fresco dining. Watch the world go by during the day with passing yachts demanding your attention, or enjoy a cosy dinner come evenings with moonlit views amping up the romance.

This atmospheric delight is also known for its entertainment with cultural events, music-filled festivals and open-air concerts bringing in the crowds.

How to get here? There are multiple ways to get to Valletta Waterfront, considering its position in the island’s capital. If you decide to drive, parking can be tricky so we suggest finding a spot just outside the city. There are two main entry points – Castille Place, on the southern side and Great Siege Road, on the northern side.

Best for: People-watching

Did you know? You may wonder why the wharf buildings along the waterfront have multi-coloured doors? This didn’t happen by accident, each door was painted a particular colour to represent the goods found in them. Blue indicated fish, green for produce, yellow for wheat and red for wine – pretty interesting, right?

Malta is filled with world famous attractions perfect for couples, but where will you head first on your romantic getaway?

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