Why We Love It: Meggie’s tops our list as the ultimate dining experience on the island. The attentive staff, flawless service, and mouthwatering dishes make every visit unforgettable. Don’t leave without trying the irresistible strozzapreti with pork cheeks.Visit Meggie's Website

Why We Love It: Meggie’s tops our list as the ultimate dining experience on the island. The attentive staff, flawless service, and mouthwatering dishes make every visit unforgettable. Don’t leave without trying the irresistible strozzapreti with pork cheeks.

Visit Meggie's Website

The New Kid on the Block: Sliema’s newest hotspot combines exquisite dining with a relaxed, stylish atmosphere. Open day and night, Alma offers a culinary journey paired with comfort and elegance perfect for any occasion.Visit Alma Website

The New Kid on the Block: Sliema’s newest hotspot combines exquisite dining with a relaxed, stylish atmosphere. Open day and night, Alma offers a culinary journey paired with comfort and elegance perfect for any occasion.

Visit Alma Website

A Sure Bet: Nestled in the heart of Sliema, Tiffany’s Bistro has quickly earned a reputation for culinary excellence. Their menu delights with consistently high-quality dishes that make every meal special.Visit Tiffany's Bistro Website

A Sure Bet: Nestled in the heart of Sliema, Tiffany’s Bistro has quickly earned a reputation for culinary excellence. Their menu delights with consistently high-quality dishes that make every meal special.

Visit Tiffany's Bistro Website

For a Quick Bite or Coffee: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a casual dinner, La Crema is a charming café-style spot inside the iconic Balluta Buildings—an Art Nouveau gem overlooking Balluta Bay. Always buzzing, it’s worth the wait for its relaxed vibe and tasty offerings.Visit La Crema Website

For a Quick Bite or Coffee: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a casual dinner, La Crema is a charming café-style spot inside the iconic Balluta Buildings—an Art Nouveau gem overlooking Balluta Bay. Always buzzing, it’s worth the wait for its relaxed vibe and tasty offerings.

Visit La Crema Website

A Culinary Staple: Serving authentic Maltese cuisine for three generations, Trattoria Da Pippo’s is a true Valletta classic. Open only for lunch, reservations are essential—but the delicious flavors and warm ambiance make it well worth the effort.Check Trattoria Da Pippo's on Facebook

A Culinary Staple: Serving authentic Maltese cuisine for three generations, Trattoria Da Pippo’s is a true Valletta classic. Open only for lunch, reservations are essential—but the delicious flavors and warm ambiance make it well worth the effort.

Check Trattoria Da Pippo's on Facebook

Maltese Tradition with a Twist: Run by two dynamic sisters who are leaders in Maltese culinary excellence, Palazzo Preca offers traditional Maltese dishes with a creative touch. Don’t forget to grab their cookbook to bring a taste of Malta home.Visit Palazzo Preca

Maltese Tradition with a Twist: Run by two dynamic sisters who are leaders in Maltese culinary excellence, Palazzo Preca offers traditional Maltese dishes with a creative touch. Don’t forget to grab their cookbook to bring a taste of Malta home.

Visit Palazzo Preca

Malta is famous for its delicious savory pastizzi, but the island’s true gems are often hidden favorites cherished by locals. HOLI is here to reveal some of the best pastizzi spots you simply can’t miss:

1. Roggers Bakery Pastizzeria (Zejtun)

Malta’s Best-Kept Secret: Roggers Bakery Pastizzeria is an insider favorite. Roger, the owner, serves his legendary pastizzi straight from the back of his van every morning in Zejtun Square until 11 AM. You can also visit his shop, but there’s something truly special about enjoying a pastizz from the van!

Visit Roggers Bakery Pastizzeria on Facebook

2. Sphinx (Msida)

Not Just Pastizzi: Part of the well-known Maltese Sphinx franchise, this bustling roadside spot is packed daily with locals craving delicious pastizzi and other quick bites. Great food, fast service, and unbeatable flavor make Sphinx a must-visit.

Visit Sphinx on Facebook

3. Serkin Crystal Palace (Rabat)

Local Favorite: Serkin Crystal Palace is beloved by locals for its consistently tasty pastizzi. While not as hidden as Roger’s van, it’s still a favorite among those in the know. Perfect for a casual, delicious treat.

Visit Serkin Crystal Palace on Facebook

Ftira, Malta’s iconic bread-based dish, is an essential culinary experience. Locals know the best spots, and HOLI is excited to share some hidden treasures:

1. New Life Bar (Mqabba)

A Well-Kept Secret: New Life Bar is a hidden gem in Mqabba. Antoine and his sister make a limited number of ftajjar daily, often selling out by 10–11 AM. Beyond the food, the first floor hosts a small art gallery, making it a unique spot for both flavor and culture.

Visit New Life Bar on Facebook

2. Dukes Snack Bar (Msida)

A Timeless Classic: Dukes Snack Bar has been delighting locals for decades. Jason, the owner, has perfected the art of ftajjar, making it a must-try even for repeat visitors. Although they usually stay open until 3 PM, it’s best to arrive early!

Visit Dukes Snack Bar Website

3. Xufi Café and Bistro (Mosta)

A Childhood Favorite: Xufi Café and Bistro holds a special place in many hearts. Known for its authentic, flavorful ftira, this spot has maintained its charm and quality for years. A true Maltese classic.

Visit Xufi Café and Bistro on Facebook

Malta is renowned for its rabbit dishes, a must try for any visitor. HOLI shares the island’s top spots for this traditional delicacy:

1. Marley’s Bar (Naxxar)

Culinary Excellence: Marley’s Bar serves meticulously prepared rabbit dishes that are fried to perfection. It’s our top pick for a memorable Maltese dining experience.

Visit Marley’s Bar on Facebook

2. Golden Lion (Ta’ Fotti) Snack Bar (Rabat)

A Timeless Delight: This decades-old establishment continues to impress with classic rabbit dishes. Opening hours can be unconventional, so calling ahead is recommended.

Visit Golden Lion Snack Bar Website

3. United Restaurant (Mgarr)

Rabbit Mecca: Mgarr is the heart of Malta’s rabbit scene, and United Restaurant stands out among the rest. Reservations are essential, as this beloved spot is always busy.

Visit United Restaurant Mgarr Website

Malta’s UNESCO World Heritage capital is full of history, charming streets, and cultural treasures. Don’t miss St. John’s Co-Cathedral and Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Step back in time in this ancient walled city. Wander narrow streets, admire medieval architecture, and enjoy panoramic views from the bastions.

Take a boat tour through these stunning sea caves and watch sunlight dance on crystal-clear waters a truly magical sight.

Relax in paradise! Swim, snorkel, or sunbathe in the Blue Lagoon’s turquoise waters on the tiny island of Comino..

Explore charming villages, historic sites like Ggantija Temples, and stunning coastlines on this peaceful island getaway.

Discover Malta’s prehistoric wonders—ancient megalithic temples among the oldest free-standing structures in the world.

Step into the whimsical world of the 1980 film Popeye, now a quirky theme park perfect for families.

Enjoy breathtaking Mediterranean views from Malta’s highest point perfect for a peaceful walk or sunset photos.

Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua showcase Malta’s maritime history with charming streets and authentic local life.

Visit this colorful village for fresh seafood, a lively Sunday fish market, and a true taste of Maltese culture.

Perfect for exploring and outdoor adventures

Spring is one of the best times to visit Malta. The weather is warm but not too hot, and the island is in full bloom.

Explore historic cities like Valletta and Mdina

Visit the ancient temples of Ħaġar Qim

Hike along the cliffs in Dingli Cliffs

Enjoy countryside walks and local village feasts

HOLI Tip: Ideal season for sightseeing without the summer crowds.

Beach days, boat trips & vibrant nightlife

Summer in Malta is all about sun and sea. Expect long, sunny days and lively evenings.

Swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon

Take a boat trip to Comino

Relax at popular beaches like Golden Bay

Enjoy rooftop dining and seaside cocktails in Sliema

Attend traditional Maltese festas and summer festivals

HOLI Tip: Book activities and beach clubs in advance summer is peak season!

Warm seas & cultural experiences

Autumn offers warm temperatures and fewer tourists perfect for a relaxed escape.

Swim while the sea is still warm

Explore the charming island of Gozo

Visit the fishing village of Marsaxlokk

Discover local food festivals and wine events

HOLI Tip: A great time for couples and travelers seeking a quieter experience.

Mild weather & authentic local life

Malta’s winters are mild compared to most of Europe, making it a great winter sun destination.

Wander through decorated streets in Valletta

Experience traditional Christmas celebrations

Visit museums and cultural sites without queues

Enjoy scenic coastal walks with dramatic sea views

HOLI Tip: Perfect for digital nomads, long stays, and peaceful getaways.