Spark your wanderlust with these 10 Malta Hidden Gems

The temples of Hagar Qim. The Baroque beauty of the Grand Masters Palace. The miraculous cupola of the Mosta Dome… These are just some of the most iconic and must-see sites that are often the highlights of any Maltese itinerary. However, if you’re eager to venture beyond the usual suspects and discover some lesser-known beautiful places in Malta, we have you covered with our list of 10 of the most fascinating Malta Hidden Gems. Think of this as a Malta Travel Guide for the curious and adventurous, inviting you to explore the island’s hidden treasures so you’ll get to enjoy a deeper dive into its history, culture, and natural beauty.

Ready? Let’s explore!

As the island’s capital city, Valletta features its fair share of must-visit attractions, especially for new visitors to these isles, such as St John’s Co-Cathedral, Grand Masters Palace, and the National Museum of Archaeology, just to name a few. But for something a little off the beaten path in the capital, you only need to head below. That’s because beneath lies Underground Valletta, a 500-year-old labyrinth of tunnels that are now open to the public after a long time of being inaccessible. As you walk through the winding subterranean passages, where tree roots dangle from the ceilings, you’ll experience these tunnels that once sheltered the Maltese during the bombings of World War II.

Top tip: Be sure to book your tour ahead of time through the official Heritage Malta website to secure your spot.

For those looking to escape the usual beach scene, St Peter’s Pool is a hidden gem in Malta worth exploring. Tucked away near Marsaxlokk, this natural pool is a stunning spot for confident swimmers and thrill-seekers. The crystal-clear waters are circled by rugged limestone cliffs that rise about four meters above the sea, making it perfect for a daring leap into the refreshing blue waters below. While it can get busy during peak summer, its rugged beauty and secluded feel make it a unique alternative to more popular spots like Għadira Bay or Golden Sands.

Top tip: There are no public facilities nearby, so pack water, snacks, and anything else you might need for the day.

If you head to Ghadira Bay, you’re bound to notice the eye-catching Red Tower, perched high in the surrounding countryside. That 17th century watchtower is in fact a lovely attraction to go visit. But the real gem are the stunning cliffs of Rdum il-Qammieh, just beyond the tower. Follow the path past the tower, and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean shimmering far below. The cliffs are perfect for hiking, offering unspoiled Maltese countryside to explore. There are various trails which wind down to the shoreline, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful, scenic walk. It’s truly one of the most beautiful places in Malta.

Top tip: Birdwatchers will enjoy the nearby Għadira Nature Reserve, which offers excellent birdwatching opportunities.

While Comino is most famous for its stunning Blue Lagoon, there’s more to discover on this tiny island. One hidden gem is the charming Chapel of the Return of the Holy Family from Egypt, dating back over 500 years. With its whitewashed façade and distinctive bell-gable arches, this picturesque spot is perfect for a photo op. Inside, you’ll find a lovely Neo-Gothic interior and an iconostasis that separates the nave from the altar.

Top tip: After visiting the chapel, head to the nearby Santa Marija Tower, a fantastic point for watching Comino’s dreamy sunsets.

And here’s another fantastic swimming spot that promises to keep you away from the crowds. Slugs Bay is a tiny beach hidden among Mellieħa’s rustic Aħrax area. It may not sound glamorous, but this bay is much more charming than its name suggests. Reaching it does involve a bit of a steep walk down rocky terrain, but when you catch a glimpse of the waves washing up on this picturesque sandy shore, the effort more than pays off. Plus, as one of Malta’s most secret places, it stays peaceful most days, especially if you arrive early.

Top tip: Flip flops are not recommended here! Bring comfortable walking shoes to reach this hidden gem, as the path can be tricky.

A massive sinkhole might not be on every tourist’s list, but for lovers of legends, il-Maqluba is a must-see. Located near the Mnajdra and Ħaġar Qim temples, this 50-foot deep sinkhole, whose name means “the upside down,” is filled with laurel, fig, carob, and hawthorn trees. It’s believed to have formed in 1343 due to an earthquake or storm, but local legend tells a different tale. According to myth, it was once part of a wicked village, and after repeated warnings, God sent angels to rip the village from the ground, tossing it into the sea. Some say that chunk became the island of Filfla. The small chapel at the sinkhole’s edge is thought to stand where a holy messenger who warned the evil villagers once lived.

Top tip: Eager to explore other sites linked to local legends? Check out Wied il-Għasel in Mosta, where stories say a hermit who walked on water once lived.

This is one Malta Hidden Gem for those seeking a stunning swimming spot. For a quieter alternative to Comino’s popular Blue Lagoon, then you might want to check out Crystal Lagoon. Just a 10-minute walk away, this hidden gem offers equally stunning blue waters surrounded by dramatic rock formations. The cliffs here are home to a network of caves and tunnels, making it a great option for snorkelers and divers.

Top tip: If hiking in the sun isn’t for you, consider a boat trip or private charter to take you directly to this tranquil lagoon.

For breathtaking views over Gozo’s stunning Ramla l-Ħamra beach, make your way to Tal-Mixta Cave. Located at the far end of the beach, a short uphill hike leads you to this hidden gem. The cave was once a shelter for locals and their cattle. Bronze Age pottery was also discovered inside, indicating that the cave has been used for a long time. Today, it offers amazing views of the red sands of the beach below and surrounding countryside. It’s also a perfect place to catch the sunset, making the journey more than worth it.

Top tip: A short drive from Ramla l-Hamra, are the salt pans of Xwejni, a great place to witness traditional salt harvesting.

Just outside Żurrieq’s village center, you’ll spot a winding road that runs alongside the valley of Wied Babu. If you’re up for an adventurous trek, you can descend into the valley itself, but make sure to wear sturdy hiking boots! The trail can be a bit tricky in places, and hiring a local guide is a smart choice for navigating safely. For those who venture all the way down, you’ll be rewarded with a hidden swimming spot surrounded by dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters. It’s a little known paradise and one of the best secret places in Malta!

Top tip: Following your hike, head to the nearby fishing village of Wied iz-Zurrieq for a delicious seafood meal.

For something curious and different head down to Xerri’s Grotto in the peaceful village of Xaghra, Gozo. This underground cave was discovered by Anthony Xerri when he was digging a well beneath his house in the 1920s. What made it particularly fascinating was that the cave features calcified formations which took the shape of all sorts of animals. Today, visitors regularly stop by to see what they can make out, from elephants and tortoises and other curious little beasts. To access this quirky grotto, you’ll enter through a private residence, pay a small fee, and descend a spiral staircase into the lamp-lit cave.

Top tip: If you love caves, Ninu’s Cave—also in Xagħra—is another great spot full of stalactites and stalagmites.

If you’re staying at one of our award-winning AX Hotels in Sliema, Qawra, or Valletta, reach out to our service team for personalised recommendations and tips to visit even more of Malta’s hidden gems. We can provide suggestions and top tips on the best places to visit for plenty of unique adventures that will give you a richer experience of what this island has to offer.