Malta is slowly becoming one of the most popular European countries to visit, and with good reason! Vibrant tropical flowers, turquoise water, and non-stop sunshine are just some of the reasons that make Malta the perfect weekend getaway or weeklong trip. Making the most out of your time when visiting Malta is key. To ensure you don’t miss any of the hidden gems, this post will take you through the best Instagrammable places in Malta to take photos, a map to guide you, and the exact location of those charming pedestrian streets.
Instagrammable Places in Malta – Main Island
1. Marsaxlokk
This small fishing village offers tons of great opportunities to take some photos, especially around the harbor. Colorful fishing boats are constantly coming in and out of the harbor, so you’re sure to get a cute shot!
Featured Traveler: @blonde_aroundtheworld
2. Umbrella Street, Zabbar
These umbrellas were installed in June 2018 and were instantly a hit on Instagram. Since they were so popular, they’ve become an annual installation. They are put up between late May and early June, staying there until mid-August, depending on weather conditions over the summer months. To find them, the street they are located on is called Triq il-Kbira.
Featured Travelers: @travelbybianca | @pr_sca
Photo By: @dreambeachmedia
3. Golden Bay
One of the most popular sandy beaches in all of Malta, Golden Bay offers a perfectly groomed beach, warm waters, and clean facilities. Head there later in the afternoon so that you can also take advantage of the beautiful sunsets.
Featured Travelers: @theblondehills & @girlborntotravel
4. Blue Mdina Door
There are many colorful doors in Malta, but this one is a favorite because of the flowering Bougainvillea cascading over the door. It’s also hidden within the fortified walls of Mdina and a little hard to find, but we’ve mapped out the location for you below!
Featured Traveler: @comewithus.pt
5. Blue Grotto
The Blue Grotto is located in the southeast corner of Malta and consists of seven caves. We recommend taking a boat trip (approximately 20-30 minutes) to see the crystal clear blue waters. It’s a once-and-a-lifetime experience!
Featured Traveler: @lolapatridge
6. Popeye Village
Popeye Village was built for the live-action musical, Popeye, from the 1980s. It’s currently used as a museum and theme park based solely around Popeye. This cute little village offers many spots to take photos and have a fun afternoon!
Featured Traveler: @ohhmypassport
7. Mdina Gate
This is the main gate and bridge that leads into the fortified city of Mdina, Malta. If you’re patient, you will be able to get the perfect shot with a horse-drawn carriage coming out of the gate. Also, if you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, this is the main entrance into King’s Landing.
Featured Traveler: @thenortherntravelers
8. St. Peter’s Pool
This beautiful natural swimming pool is a must for anyone that loves to spend a nice day relaxing in the sun! This secluded inlet makes it perfect for taking a dip in the water. Make sure to bring with you what you need for the day, as there is not much around there.
Featured Traveler: @lisazora
9. Il-Kalanka Bay
This hidden gem is usually less crowded than St. Peter’s Pool, which is only 950 meters (half a mile) away. Il-Kalanka Bay still offers crystal clear waters and is yet another incredible spot to cool off and take stunning photos for Instagram.
Featured Traveler: @mariedeparis1
10. Dingli Cliffs
The Dingli Cliffs are the highest point in all of Malta at 830 feet (253 meters) above sea level. And, as you would expect, the cliffs offer breathtaking views. If you are looking to take that epic panoramic coastal shot, this is the place to go!
Featured Traveler: @m.araac
11. Mdina – Fortified City
Without a doubt, Mdina must be on your list of Instagrammable places in Malta to visit. Whether you’re a fan of Game of Thrones and want to visit King’s Landing, or you want to take in some history and explore this magnificent medieval city, the photo opportunities are endless and like no other.
Featured Traveler: @blonderienne
12. Palazzo de Piro
Don’t be fooled if it seems like this spot is empty; the rooftop terrace is where everyone goes (and for good reason). Offering an incredible view of the east coast of Malta, you are guaranteed to capture a great photo along with enjoying a delicious meal.
Featured Traveler: @tarynmamocefai
13. Mosta Dome (Rotunda of Mosta)
One of the most impressive churches in all of Malta, Rotunda of Mosta (or Mosta Dome), took its design cues from the Pantheon in Rome. In doing so, it boasts one of the largest unsupported domes in the world. The interior of the dome is a marvel to see with the amount of detail throughout it.
Featured Traveler: @janinasell
14. Qarraba Bay
If you’re looking for a unique beach where the locals go, this is the spot! The red sand beach is surrounded by clay cliffs and provides an excellent contrast to the stunning blue waters.
Featured Traveler: @natalyadameova
15. Anchor Bay
This bay is one of the most popular dive sites in Malta due to the fact there is a sunken ship, large anchor, and caves to explore. They’ve also set up a small inflatable water park closer to the shore. You can also get a great photo of Popeye Village from here.
Featured Traveler: @patriciacsbraga
16. St. Julian’s – be.HOTEL
You may end up booking a hotel in the town of St. Julian’s as it is very tourist-orientated and has lots of hotels and restaurants. It’s a great idea to stay here because it is a central hub and relatively close to everything in Malta. St. Julian’s is also home to one of the main stops for the Malta Hop On Hop Off bus tour, which in our opinion, is a great way to get around and see all of Malta!
Featured Traveler: @ieliena
17. Spinola Bay
Located in St. Julian’s, Spinola Bay is the perfect spot to spend a few hours. With several nice restaurants and a promenade outlining the bay, you’re sure to get some great Instagram photos of traditional Maltese fishing boats and a view of the village.
Featured Traveler: @angelesatariano
18. Balluta Bay
Looking to relax and work on your tan? Head to Balluta Bay on a sunny day and you’ll see all the locals lying on the flat rocks soaking up the sun. Once you’re finished, head to one of the small cafés or restaurants around the Bay and enjoy what St. Julian’s has to offer.
Featured Traveler: @pilotmadeleine
19. Paceville
No trip to Malta is complete without checking out the nightlife in Paceville. Here you’ll find all kinds of nightclubs and bars, and you’ll be able to party until dawn. Put your camera on selfie mode and start taking some epic shots!
Featured Traveler: @_connor.fitzpatrick_
20. Sliema
This beautiful town offers a 10-kilometer long promenade on the coastline with views of Valletta. It’s perfect for a late-night stroll or photoshoot.
Featured Traveler: @rayneesegaleaaxiak
21. Café del Mar
The best beach club in all of Malta! Crisp white furniture that exudes the Mediterranean vibe, upbeat music to get you into vacation mode, and a view that will 100% let you know you’re in paradise.
Featured Traveler: @susannabonaldi
Read More
2 Days in St. Julian’s, Malta | The Ultimate Guide
How to Save on Taxi Fares in Malta
Malta Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour
Instagrammable Places in Malta – Valletta
22. St. Ursula Street (Triq Sant’ Orsla)
This pedestrian street offers two great photo-taking locations. One near the top of the stairs and the second is at the bottom looking back up. Here, you’ll find vibrant colored balconies popping off the limestone walls. We’ve mapped out the location below, but the easiest way to find this street is to go to Casa Asti.
Featured Traveler: @angeltheodoro
23. Upper Barrakka Gardens
These free gardens are a must-visit and should be on everyone’s list of Instagrammable places in Malta. The gardens are built on the highest point in Valletta and offer a magnificent panoramic view of the Grand Harbour. Relax, take in the view, and enjoy all the colorful flowers the gardens have to offer.
Featured Traveler: @try.to.catch.sara
24. St. John Street (Triq San Gwann)
This pedestrian-only street is considered to be one of the most Instagrammable streets in all of Valletta. Not only that, but the steps also lead you right to the water, for that perfect shot. We’ve mapped out the exact location for you at the end of this post, but you want to look for Lancet Salon or Café Society.
Featured Traveler: @christinazafeiriou
25. Palazzo Parisio
Built between 1900 and 1907, this palace offers many opportunities for you to feel like a king or queen. Head out to the gardens to get some photos with the perfectly maintained Mediterranean flowers and cute yellow benches.
Featured Traveler: @rebeccapontmark
26. Strait Street
Strait Street is one of the most famous streets in all of Malta. It was once a bustling spot for nightlife in the 19th and 20th centuries, but has since calmed down a little bit. Head there during the day to take some great shots as the street is very narrow with high buildings and colorful balconies on either side.
Featured Traveler: @anna_in_her_wonderland
27. Lower Barrakka Gardens
These gardens are the perfect spot to relax and get out of the hot Maltese sun. With lush Mediterranean trees, vibrant tropical flowers, and monuments throughout, the Lower Barakka Gardens are the perfect spot to cool down and take some Instagram-worthy shots.
Featured Traveler: @valeriebundle
28. St. Lucia’s Street
Another pedestrian staircase, this one looks down to the impressive church below. This cute Maltese street won’t disappoint! To find it, search for 303 St. Paul Street or the wine bar called San Paolo Naufrago.
Featured Traveler: @gonczidezso
29. Triton Fountain
The Triton Fountain is considered one of the most famous landmarks in all of Valletta. This impressive fountain has three bronze tritons holding up a large plate that acts as the top of the fountain. It is quite a sight when the fountain is shooting its water in every direction.
Featured Traveler: @alexandra.vnb
30. Amorino Malta
If we’re talking about Instagrammble places in Malta (which we are) this ice cream shop needs to be on your list. Make sure you order your ice cream in a cone, not a cup, because they shape it into a blooming flower on your cone.
Featured Traveler: @bruna.acedo
31. Republic Square
This cute square is located directly in front of the National Library and has a statue of Queen Victoria erected directly in the middle. Around the square, there are lots of different cafés where you can sit down under an umbrella and have a quick drink while you plan your next photoshoot location.
Featured Traveler: @kondratieva_eva
32. Rainbow Pedestrian Crossing
Head over to this rainbow-colored pedestrian crossing to get a fun shot of you skipping across the street. This crossing was painted in 2014 to celebrate gender diversity and the LGBTQ+ community in Malta.
Featured Traveler: @sleepyexplorer
33. Parliament House
This ultra-modern, 90-million dollar building is home to the Maltese Parliament. Without a doubt, it is a showstopper, and you need a photo in front of it. The outside of the building is covered in limestone, adding a unique and historical element to the building.
Featured Traveler: @mondayjazz
34. St. John’s Co-Cathedral
While the exterior of the church is relatively dull and boring, the interior is quite the opposite. Almost everything is covered in gold, and the church is considered to be one of the most excellent examples of Baroque architecture.
Featured Traveler: @uzm.dr.silayilmaz
Instagrammable Places in Malta – Comino Island
35. Crystal Lagoon
If you haven’t figured it out from the name, this lagoon has crystal clear water. You can easily see down to the white sand and small fish that are swimming around. Crystal Lagoon is an incredible spot to go diving or snorkeling.
Featured Traveler: @jesscurtiis
36. Blue Lagoon
Considered to be one of the most beautiful places in all of Malta, the Blue Lagoon on Comino Island is a spot that needs to be on your list of Instagrammable places in Malta. The shallow, turquoise saltwater is perfect for floating around all day. Make sure to get there early as it does get very busy, especially during the summer months.
Featured Traveler: @luxuryvoyager
Instagrammable Places in Malta – Gozo Island
37. Mgarr Harbor
Malta’s sister island, Gozo, is what Malta used to be like in its early years. With a population of about 37,000, it is a much quieter place to relax and enjoy your day. The Gozo Ferry Terminal is the perfect place to snap a quick photo for Instagram as you’re arriving to the island!
Featured Traveler: @otniela
38. Tal Mixta Cave
The short hike up to this cave is well worth it! Once you reach the top, head inside the cave and take a shot looking out towards the sea. You’ll be able to capture the water and countryside all at once!
Featured Traveler: @tayfaust
39. Victoria / Ir-Rabat
Victoria is the capital city of Gozo and a great spot to grab lunch. Head to the main square called Pjazza Indipendenza and pull up a seat at one of the many outdoor cafés.
Featured Traveler: @narek_pet
40. Ta’ Pinu Cathedral
This beautiful basilica is dedicated to the lady of Ta’ Pinu. Built out of Maltese stone, this cathedral is a masterpiece inside and out. Sitting at the top of a small hill, Ta’ Pinu Cathedral offers excellent views in every direction.
Featured Traveler: @whereisroxa
41. Wied il-Mielah
Although the Azure Window collapsed in March 2017, the surrounding area known as Dwejra Bay is still a beautiful spot to visit. There is a lesser-known arch, Wied il-Mielah, on the island still standing strong for you to visit and take photos.
Featured Traveler: @nicole.vella
42. Gozo Salt Pans
To get a unique shot for Insta, head on out to the Gozo Salt Pans. Here, you’ll be able to capture a photo that not many others have. The salt pans are still in use and are the perfect backdrop for your photo.
Featured Traveler: @tysiaxmartysia
43. Victoria Citadel
This fortified city, built at the top of one of the highest hills in Gozo, certainly stands out. This fully restored citadel reopened in 2016 for you to experience once again in its entirety. Once inside, get lost in the winding streets and take lots of photos with the limestone as your background.
Featured Traveler: @anja._.milosevic
44. Ramla Bay
Ramla Bay is unique compared to the others in Malta since it has a dark red sandy beach. That, combined with the white water from the waves and the overlooking hills, makes for quite a unique shot.
Featured Traveler: @roxiif
45. Wied il-Ghasri
Also known as the Ghasri Valley, Wied il-Ghasri runs all the way out to the sea. This Valley is a unique spot where you can spend some time on the rock beach and watch the water flow. You will certainly be able to get some unique shots at this location.
Featured Traveler: @wear.juti.eats
Map of Instagrammable Spots in Malta
Instagrammable Places in Malta – Main Island
- Marsaxlokk
- Umbrella Street, Zabbar
- Golden Bay
- Blue Mdina Door
- Blue Grotto
- Popeye Village
- Mdina Gate
- St. Peter’s Pool
- Il-Kalanka Bay
- Dingli Cliffs
- Mdina – Fortified City
- Palazzo de Piro
- Mosta Dome (Rotunda of Mosta)
- Qarraba Bay
- Anchor Bay
- be.HOTEL – St. Julian’s
- Spinola Bay
- Balluta Bay
- Paceville
- Sliema
- Café del Mar
List of Instagrammable Places in Malta – Valletta
- St. Ursula Street (Triq Sant’ Orsla)
- Upper Barrakka Gardens
- St. John Street (Triq San Gwann)
- Palazzo Parisio
- Strait Street
- Lower Barrakka Gardens
- St. Lucia’s Street
- Triton Fountain
- Amorino
- Republic Square
- Rainbow Pedestrian Crossing
- Parliament House
- St. John’s Co-Cathedral
Instagrammable Places in Malta – Comino Island
- Crystal Lagoon
- Blue Lagoon
List of Instagrammable Places in Malta – Gozo
- Mgarr Harbor
- Tal Mixta Cave
- Victoria / Ir-Rabat
- Ta’ Pinu Cathedral
- Wied il-Mielah
- Gozo Salt Pans
- Victoria Citadel
- Ramla Bay
- Wied il-Ghasri
Did we miss any Instagrammable places in Malta?
Let us know in the comments and don’t forget to tag us in your Instagrammable places in Malta @the_wandering_tourist!