Your Guide to a Luxurious, Relaxing Escape in Malta

Hostels, street food and free walking tours all have their place. But if you’re flying all the way from Australia to a sun-drenched Mediterranean island with thousands of years of history, crystalline waters and quietly confident luxury, it pays to do it properly. Whether it’s five-star stays carved into limestone cliffs, Michelin-starred dining or restorative experiences, here’s how to experience Malta at its most refined and restful.

Stay somewhere redefining Mediterranean luxury

Malta’s top-tier hotels are destinations in themselves. Palatial properties overlook the Grand Harbour, cliff-top retreats offer private sea access, and contemporary resorts are designed around serenity and space. Many feature expansive spas, private pools, personalised butler service and uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean – ideal for travellers who really want to switch off.

Insider tip: look for properties in Valletta, Mdina or along the island’s northern coast for the best balance of privacy, culture and coastal beauty. Our favourites include Iniala Harbour House, Rosselli (a beautifully restored 17th-century palazzo) and The Phoenicia Malta, alongside classics such as Radisson, Kempinski and Marriott.

Dine at Michelin-starred restaurants without the fuss

Malta has quietly built a reputation as one of the Mediterranean’s most exciting fine-dining destinations. Its Michelin-starred restaurants showcase local produce through refined, modern menus that blend southern European and north African influences. Expect elegant dining rooms, impeccable service and a relaxed pace that encourages lingering.

Ion Harbour, Under Grain, Noni and De Mondion are among the few that represent Malta’s evolving fine-dining narrative, and are must-book experiences for discerning travellers. It’s all about quiet confidence rather than flash, with a cuisine shaped over generations by geography, history and restraint now being reinterpreted with modern precision.

Explore the island by private yacht

There’s no better way to appreciate Malta’s dramatic coastline than from the water. Charter a private yacht and spend the day drifting past honey-hued cliffs, hidden coves and the luminous Blue Lagoon. Swim, sunbathe and explore at your own pace, far from the crowds.

A range of charters offer bespoke itineraries, discreet crews and onboard dining, turning a simple boat trip into a seamless luxury experience. Try Malta Sailing Charter or Hot Yacht for luxury and fully customised experiences. For other highly rated private charter operators, there’s also I Love Malta Boat Charters and Suncat Malta Charters to consider.

See Malta from the sky

For a truly unforgettable perspective, take it to the air. A private helicopter tour reveals the full beauty of the Maltese archipelago: the geometric streets of Valletta, the rugged coastline of Gozo and the emerald blues of the surrounding sea. 

It’s an indulgence, yes, but one that turns geography into spectacle and offers a rare sense of scale and serenity.

Indulge in ancient wellness rituals

Malta’s spa culture draws on centuries-old traditions, with treatments inspired by the island’s natural elements like limestone, sea salt and native botanicals. Select luxury hotels house destination spas featuring thermal pools, hammams and private treatment suites overlooking the ocean. The Marriott, Kempinski and Radisson all have their own wellness centres with refined experiences.

Take a private wander through living history

With over 7000 years of history, Malta rewards curious travellers, especially those who prefer tailored experiences. Private guides can unlock after-hours access to ancient temples, fortified cities and Unesco-listed landmarks, offering insight without the crowds.

Malta’s past feels remarkably present, from the silent streets of Mdina to the baroque grandeur of Valletta, and all the more powerful when explored at your own pace. Travellers can book these experiences through specialist operators such as Malta Private Guide, Malta Themed Tours and Gozo Tours, all of whom arrange highly personalised itineraries and, in some cases, privileged or out-of-hours access to Malta and Gozo’s most significant historic sites.

Visit golden beaches and secluded bays

Beyond its historic cities, Malta is blessed with beautiful beaches and quiet swimming spots. Seek out soft-sand bays in the north – Ghajn Tuffieha, Golden Bay and Mellieha Bay – or anchor off secluded rocky inlets along the north-west coast and around Comino. Several of Malta’s most polished accommodations provide direct access to the sea or exclusive beach clubs – among them are The Westin Dragonara Resort, Hilton Malta, Intercontinental Malta and Corinthia St George’s Bay. Elsewhere, Radisson Blu Resort & Spa provides private lido access to Golden Bay, one of the island’s finest natural beaches.

This article is produced by Broadsheet in partnership with Qatar Airways. Discover seamless travel from Australia to Malta via Doha with Qatar Airways, named the World’s Best Airline by Skytrax World Airline Awards 2025.