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Island Hopping in Malta (2025): How to Explore Malta, Gozo & Comino in 3 Days

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Island-hop your way through Malta, Gozo & Comino in just 3 days! This 2025 guide helps you explore beaches, culture & epic views without missing a beat.

Three islands, endless adventure. If you’ve only got 3 days in Malta, don’t worry—you can still soak up history, nature, and beaches galore.

Sunlight dances on the water, a soft breeze carries the scent of salt and citrus, and ancient cities rise from the hills like something out of a dream. Welcome to the Maltese archipelago—a trio of islands packed with more charm than you can imagine. In this 3-day Malta itinerary, we’ll guide you through the highlights of Malta, Gozo, and Comino, offering tips on ferries, food, and unforgettable experiences. Ready to hop?

Why Island Hop in Malta?

Malta is compact but rich in culture, color, and coastline. The main island (Malta) is the beating heart of history and nightlife, Gozo offers dramatic cliffs and rustic countryside, and Comino—a tiny paradise—is home to the legendary Blue Lagoon.

Island hopping in Malta in 2025 is easier than ever, thanks to frequent ferries, day cruises, and new eco-transport options. Whether you’re a beach bum, history lover, or Instagrammer chasing the perfect shot, you’ll find your Mediterranean bliss here.

🗺️ Your 3-Day Island Hopping Itinerary

Let’s break down the perfect three-day island-hopping journey:

🏰 Day 1 – Malta: Valletta, Mdina & Golden Bay

Morning: Valletta – A Capital of Charm

Start your Maltese adventure in Valletta, the stunning capital city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Step onto Republic Street and let the Baroque architecture transport you back in time.

  • Top things to do:
    • Visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral and its jaw-dropping Caravaggio paintings.
    • Wander through Upper Barrakka Gardens for panoramic views of the Grand Harbour.
    • Grab a coffee and pastizz (a flaky local pastry) at Caffe Cordina—an institution.

Travel Tip: Valletta is walkable, so ditch heavy bags. Pack light with a daypack, water bottle, and sunscreen.

Midday: Mdina – The Silent City

From Valletta, hop on a bus or hire a Bolt (Malta’s version of Uber) to the enchanting city of Mdina, Malta’s old capital. Known as the “Silent City,” Mdina is like stepping into a medieval movie set—complete with horse-drawn carriages.

  • Don’t Miss:
    • Stroll through Mdina Gate, featured in Game of Thrones.
    • Visit St. Paul’s Cathedral and explore the winding, golden limestone streets.
    • Try lunch at Fontanella Tea Garden, where the views are as good as the cake.

Afternoon: Golden Bay – Sunset & Sea

Finish Day 1 at Golden Bay, one of Malta’s most beautiful sandy beaches. It’s the perfect place to swim, unwind, and watch a fiery Mediterranean sunset.

  • Pro Tip: Bring a towel, swimsuit, and a light wrap for the breeze.
  • Where to Eat Nearby: Dine at Apple’s Eye restaurant, a clifftop gem with seafood and pizza.

🏝️ Day 2 – Gozo: Victoria, Ramla Bay & Dwejra Bay

Catch an early morning ferry from Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal to Mgarr Harbour, Gozo. The journey is only 25 minutes, but it feels like arriving in another world.

  • Ferry Info (2025):
    • Gozo Channel Ferry runs every 30–45 minutes.
    • €5 round-trip for foot passengers.
    • Operates from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

Morning: Victoria (Rabat) – Gozo’s Soul

Head straight to Victoria, Gozo’s capital (also known as Rabat). The star attraction is the Citadel, a fortified city offering sweeping island views.

  • Things to Explore:
    • Climb the Citadel ramparts and explore the old prison.
    • Visit the Cathedral of the Assumption.
    • Grab breakfast at Black Cat Café or CupCake for a local vibe.

Midday: Ramla Bay – Red Sand Paradise

Next, make your way to Ramla Bay, famous for its unique reddish-gold sand. It’s a peaceful beach with clear water and fewer crowds than Malta’s main beaches.

  • Optional hike: Visit Calypso’s Cave nearby—legend says this is where Homer’s Odysseus was held captive by the nymph Calypso.
  • Lunch Spot: Try Ramla Bay Café for grilled fish and light bites with a beach view.

Afternoon: Dwejra Bay – Nature’s Drama

Wrap up your Gozo day with a trip to Dwejra Bay, known for its rugged cliffs and surreal landscapes.

  • Highlights:
    • The Inland Sea – a hidden lagoon linked to the sea via a tunnel.
    • Fungus Rock – a massive limestone outcrop with historical lore.
    • Snorkeling & Diving – clear waters and sea caves await!

Travel Tip: Rent a car or join a local tuk-tuk tour if you want to see more in less time. Gozo’s public transport is reliable but slower.

Where to Stay (If You Stay Overnight in Gozo):

  • Budget: Santa Martha Guesthouse, centrally located.
  • Mid-Range: Cesca Boutique Hotel with valley views.
  • Luxury: Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz – for spa lovers.

🛥️ Day 3 – Comino: Blue Lagoon & Caves

Save the most surreal spot for last: the tiny island of Comino.

Morning: Ferry to Comino

From either Cirkewwa (Malta) or Mgarr (Gozo), take a Comino ferry or boat tour. Ferries run every 30–60 minutes in peak season (April–October).

  • Ferry Price (2025):
    • Round-trip: €15–€20.
    • Many boats include cave tours (worth it!).

Midday: Blue Lagoon – Malta’s Crown Jewel

Imagine shimmering turquoise waters, white sand underfoot, and sea caves waiting to be explored. That’s Comino’s Blue Lagoon, and yes—it’s even better in real life.

  • What to Do:
    • Swim, snorkel, or rent a paddleboard.
    • Explore the nearby Crystal Lagoon for quieter vibes.
    • Take a boat ride into the Comino Caves—they glow in the sunlight!

Travel Tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds. The Blue Lagoon gets busy by 11 AM, especially in summer.

Afternoon: Explore or Relax

After soaking up the lagoon, wander around the island’s trails or simply chill.

  • Short hike: Visit St. Mary’s Tower, an old watchtower with epic sea views.
  • Photography Tip: The light in late afternoon is perfect for golden-hour shots.

No Hotels on Comino? No Problem!

Comino has only one hotel (often closed in the off-season), so it’s best as a day trip. Plan to return to Malta or Gozo in the evening.

🧳 Packing Tips for a 3-Day Island Hopping Trip

Traveling light is key when you’re jumping from island to island. Here’s what to bring:

  • Backpack or light duffel – Easy to carry on ferries or day tours.
  • Quick-dry towel – Ideal for beach stops.
  • Snorkel gear – Or rent on-site, but having your own is better.
  • Swimwear & flip-flops – Essentials for Comino and Gozo beaches.
  • Sunblock & hat – That Mediterranean sun is no joke.
  • Camera or phone gimbal – Capture every dreamy moment.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Malta, Gozo & Comino

Here’s a mini foodie guide for each island:

Malta:

  • Noni (Valletta) – Michelin-starred Maltese cuisine.
  • Legligin Wine Bar (Valletta) – Cozy, local, and packed with flavor.
  • Rubino (Valletta) – Traditional dishes in a family-run spot.

Gozo:

  • Ta’ Rikardu (Victoria) – Cheese platters and house wine from a 500-year-old cellar.
  • Mekren’s Bakery (Nadur) – Local ftira bread to-go.
  • Il-Kartell (Marsalforn) – Seafront dining with fresh seafood.

Comino:

  • Food Kiosks by Blue Lagoon – Quick eats like burgers, wraps, and cold drinks.
  • Pro Tip: Bring a picnic and plenty of water if you’re staying all day.

💤 Where to Stay if You’re Not on a Tight Schedule

Want to stretch your trip a little longer? These spots offer charm and comfort:

Valletta:

  • The Phoenicia Malta – Classic elegance near the city gates.
  • Domus Zamittello – Stylish and historic.

Gozo:

  • The Duke Boutique Hotel (Victoria) – Central and cozy.
  • Hotel Ta’ Cenc & Spa (Sannat) – Luxury meets nature.

❤️ Final Thoughts: A Mediterranean Memory You’ll Keep Forever

As the sun sets on your third day and your ferry glides back toward Malta, the golden glow of the islands lingers in your mind. You’ve explored bustling cities, walked through centuries of history, swum in crystal-clear lagoons, and felt the slow rhythm of Mediterranean life. Three days may seem short, but island hopping in Malta gives you a taste of everything—ancient beauty, wild nature, delicious food, and warm, welcoming people.

Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, this 2025 itinerary will help you experience the magic of Malta, Gozo & Comino without missing a beat. So pack light, charge your camera, and let the islands carry you away.

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