Malta has previously gone under my radar as a photography destination. Perhaps because I have never seen other photographers spend much time there or perhaps because all photos from that part of the world tend to come from the neighbouring Italy. Either way I was curious and decided to spend a month there.

In this blog I will share with you some great spots to explore, photograph and general travel advice. Whether you’re planning to visit for a weekend or a month, this guide will have you covered.

Why Malta

Malta is a tiny island in the Mediterranean not far off the coast of Sicily. A long and complex history means you will find Italian, British and Arabic influences throughout the country. Malta is basically a giant rock with the environment and architecture reflecting that. Everywhere you look you have warm sandy tones. If you like your photos on the warmer side, this is definitely the place to be.

The locals are probably the friendliest people I have met thus far and I didn’t come across anyone who couldn’t speak English, even 94 year olds. The main island is tiny and Gozo is even smaller so every single point can be a day trip. The public transport system is outstanding. Unless you really want to go off the beaten path, you can get a bus or a boat almost everywhere. Get yourself a Tallinja Explore Flex card for all public transport. Uber and Bolt cover pretty much the entire island too.

The towns are full of character, the fishing villages are full of life and the coast is amazing. Overall Malta is one of the safest places in Europe too. Having spent 30 days here, I would highly recommend it.

When To Visit

I can say with confidence that visiting during the shoulder season is the best. This will avoid most of the summer tourists, the hottest weather and the highest prices. I visited in September and although it was busy, it wasn’t too crazy. The weather averaged around 29C with 90% sunny days and only a few rain showers. The sea is also warm so great for doing a few beach days. If you’re not fussed about going to the beach or maybe you prefer cooler weather, then the winter would be a great time.

How Long To Stay

For most people a long week would be enough to see most things at a relaxing pace. In total I would say ten days. two travel days, seven exploring days and one rest day in the middle.

Where To Stay

I would recommend staying in Valletta. It’s a little more expensive however it’s incredibly well connected and super easy to get to all other parts of the country. From express Gozo ferries to a huge bus station. Also Valletta is arguably the most beautiful town and when combined with Birgu and Senglea just across the water, it gives you plenty to see and do right on your doorstep. In Valletta I would suggest staying a little further down away from the main square and street. That way you get some peace and quiet at night.

Photography

Malta is a very photogenic country with many places to shoot. However the colour palette can be a bit too simple for some people. Malta is full of old cars, tight streets, characters and plenty of detail. You can take just as many photos of beaten up sign posts as you can of interesting people and towns. Whether you’re into street photography or prefer to shoot simple aesthetic scenes, you will find it here. Landscape photography can get a little dull however given the lack of variety. Although not my cup of tea, underwater photography is pretty good here. Finally the overall attitude to photography is relaxed.

Lens wise, I found myself using the following focal lengths the most (in full frame terms):

28mm - 15%
50mm - 50%
135mm - 35%

Valletta

We will start in Valletta and for many especially those coming for a weekend, this would be the main attraction. Valletta is a beautiful town full of long hilly streets and character. It’s bustling with life be it at sunrise or late into the night. I personally loved spending hours walking all along the long narrow streets with a telephoto lens.

Make sure to check out the Midday Gun and the sunset from Hastings Gardens. Lot 61 and Coffee Circus are my go to spots for the best coffee. IMPasta, Tribe, Wagyu and Oakberry had the best food. Valletta is a small town and it will take you around 30 minutes to walk from one side to another. With that in mind, one full day is enough to explore everywhere.

If you like the pictures in this blog, then why not check out the photography zine from Malta. It has a ton more photos including those not shared elsewhere. This is also the most direct and low cost way to support this blog thus keeping it ad free. Thank you.

Snapshots From Malta

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Birgu & Senglea

Right next to Valletta are two small towns of Birgu & Senglea. Given their proximity I suggest doing both at the same time. To get here you need to take the ferry over but they are cheap and frequent. I would first start in Birgu and walk all the way down to Fort St Angelo. This is a great place to explore and you can get some nice photos too. Then I would head back towards the middle of Birgu and explore the other side too. Don’t forget all the smaller streets.

Once you’re done here, simply cross the bridge over to Senglea and walk right along the middle until you reach the Safe Haven Gardens at the end. A great spot for golden hour later in the day. From here simply walk down to the water and walk back to the ferry terminal to end the day. In total I would assign a whole day for these two spots.

Rabat & Mdnia

This was one of my favourite places to shoot. Rabat was incredible and I got two of my favourite shots from the entire trip here. You can get here by getting a bus from the main station and it only takes around an hour. You can also take a classic bus if you fancy. Fun to do once I’d say.

Once you get to Rabat I suggest take any street and just walk. Then simply follow the light or whatever peaks your interest. The town is small and eventually you would have explored most of it.

In rabat you will find another town called Mdina. It is a fortified town and was the original capital of Malta. Going inside is like going back in time and despite being packed with tourists, it was great to see. The place is full of tight narrow streets where the light can pierce through and make for cool photos. Don’t forget to explore the main cathedral and see the views from the wall.

Rabat and Mdina will take you around a day if moving at a slow pace.

Marsaxlokk

If you’re getting tired of tight streets and want something different, then may I suggest Marsaxlokk. A small fishing village located not far away from Valletta and is easily reachable by bus. I would come as early as possible for the best light and activity on the water. You will find a tiny bay full of fishing boats and fishermen. It really is a small place though and you could find that an hour is all you need.

Gozo

The final photography spot is Victoria in Gozo. Victoria is the largest town in Gozo and is worth a visit. Gozo in general is a beautiful island especially if you’re into beaches, diving and hiking. Simply take the express ferry from Valletta and you’re there in 45 minutes. After that a 20 minute bus will take you into the heart of Victoria. If you have time then explore other parts of Gozo such as the area around the blue hole.