Malta may be a compact Mediterranean island, but it offers an impressive range of historic landmarks, coastal landscapes and charming towns that are spread across different regions. While cities like Valletta and Sliema are easy to explore on foot, many of the island’s most beautiful viewpoints, cliffs and traditional villages are located outside the main urban areas. Public transport can reach some of these destinations, but schedules are limited and routes often require several connections. For this reason, many travelers prefer to arrange a car rental in Malta before starting their trip. In 2026 Malta remains one of Europe’s most attractive travel destinations thanks to its warm climate, rich history and scenic coastal drives.
Valletta and Malta’s historic capital
Valletta is one of the smallest capitals in Europe, yet it contains an extraordinary concentration of history and architecture. Founded in the 16th century by the Knights of St. John, the city is now a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its baroque buildings, narrow streets and impressive fortifications. Visitors often explore landmarks such as St. John’s Co Cathedral, the Grand Harbour and the Upper Barrakka Gardens which offer panoramic views across the harbor.
While Valletta itself is best explored on foot, having a car makes it easy to continue the journey toward nearby coastal areas and historic towns after visiting the capital.
Blue Grotto and the southern coastal cliffs
The Blue Grotto is one of Malta’s most famous natural attractions and lies about 25 minutes south of Valletta. This spectacular series of sea caves is known for the intense blue reflections created by sunlight hitting the crystal clear Mediterranean water. Boat trips take visitors into the caves, allowing them to experience the vivid colors and dramatic rock formations up close.
The coastal road leading to the Blue Grotto offers several scenic viewpoints above the cliffs, making the drive itself a highlight of visiting this part of the island.
Mdina, the silent medieval city
Mdina sits on a hill in the center of Malta and is often called the Silent City because of its calm and historic atmosphere. Surrounded by ancient walls, the city features narrow stone streets, medieval palaces and quiet courtyards that reflect centuries of Maltese history. From the city walls visitors can see panoramic views across much of the island.
Located around 20 minutes from Valletta, Mdina is easy to combine with nearby villages and countryside landscapes during a scenic drive across Malta.
Dingli Cliffs and Malta’s highest viewpoint
Dingli Cliffs stretch along Malta’s western coastline and represent the highest natural point on the island. The cliffs rise dramatically above the Mediterranean and offer some of the most impressive sunset views in Malta. The surrounding countryside is quiet and rural, providing a contrast to the busy coastal towns.
Driving to Dingli Cliffs allows visitors to explore nearby villages and coastal viewpoints that many travelers miss when following standard tour routes.
Why exploring Malta by car in 2026 makes the difference
Malta in 2026 continues to attract travelers looking for history, sunshine and dramatic Mediterranean scenery within short travel distances. From historic fortifications and ancient cities to coastal cliffs and hidden beaches, the island offers remarkable diversity.
Many of the most memorable places are spread across different parts of the island, which makes flexible transportation especially valuable. Exploring Malta by car allows visitors to reach scenic viewpoints, traditional villages and quiet coastal landscapes while discovering the island at their own pace.
For travelers planning to explore the island comfortably, RentGo Malta offers a convenient solution through the website rentgomalta.com, making it easy to arrange a vehicle and enjoy the freedom of discovering Malta independently.
