‘I found Malta’s hidden gems; these are the spots to add to your bucket list’

This vibrant fishing village is always worth a visit – but it really comes alive on a Sunday, when the weekly market sets up along the waterfront. From straight-from-the-water seafood and prickly pear liquor to colourful textiles and handmade baskets, the stalls of the open-air market are laden with local produce and wares. Spend the morning browsing the offering as you admire the luzzu’s floating on the water (that’s those colourful boats dotted around the harbour). Then head over to the nearby square, where you’ll find plenty of cafes and restaurants which offer the perfect spot to soak up the buzzing atmosphere.

Time Out tip: Book a spot on Jet2holidays’ Marsaxlokk and Blue Grotto excursion for a double-whammy tour of some of the island's best activities, led by an ultra-knowledgeable local guide.

Consider yourself a nature lover? Be sure to head to Blue Grotto, one of Malta’s must-see natural wonders. Made up of seven striking sea caverns, the area features dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise blue waters – all of which is best explored via boat. A 20 minute tour runs all year round from the tiny, picturesque harbour of Wied iż-Żurrieq, with the excursion taking you right into the heart of the caves. Here, you can marvel at their immense scale and spot seabirds nesting in the cliff faces. Keep your eyes peeled for the Reflection Cave in particular: the mirror-like surface of the water here casts glowing reflections onto the cave walls above you. 

Time Out tip: Fancy cooling off after your boat tour? The cove of Wied iż-Żurrieq is a quaint swimming spot. Just to the left of the harbour, there’s a stone ledge where you can lay down your towel and watch the boats sail by.

What’s a holiday without wine? Set across 47 acres of sun-soaked vineyards, plus the winery building, cellars, offices and passage-ways, the Meridiana Wine Estate is a family run business, known for producing some of Malta’s finest wines – and offering some seriously relaxing tasting too.  

The grape harvest takes place each August, with fruits from the estate’s vineyards transformed and aged in large barrels in underground cellars – which you can explore during a tour of the estate. Then, head to the terrace to sample some of the best white, rose and reds as you overlook the picturesque grounds – all while grazing on some genuinely delicious food.

Time Out tip: Don’t forget to stop off at the estate’s shop during your visit. The chardonnay – named after the Phoenician goddess Isis – is a particular highlight: fresh, complex, and very much worthy of space in your suitcase home. You’ll be glad for that 22kg baggage allowance!

Tucked away on a busy street in Valletta, MUŻA is Malta’s National Community Art Museum. Most definitely a hidden gem, the museum is housed within the historic Auberge d'Italie, with a programme of exhibitions that rotates regularly. As a result, you’re likely to stumble across a new work of art each time you visit. Many of the artists featured are also part of a residency programme, which is focused on harbouring upcoming talent, bringing fresh perspectives and constantly evolving work to the space.

Time Out Tip: Consider this a cool, calm spot to recharge away from the hustle and bustle of Valletta. The tables of MUŻA restaurant spill out into the museum’s central courtyard, where you can take in the changing artworks as you feast on dishes inspired by Malta’s rich heritage. 

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*£60 per person deposit is applicable on holidays departing 10 weeks or more from booking date. ‡One free child place per two paying passengers. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply, please see jet2holidays.com/promotions#FCP2025 for further details. ~Unless otherwise stated.