Malta is becoming an increasingly popular destination for travelers from all over the world. However, when many book their trip to this fascinating and vibrant country, they make one fatal error: only booking for the mainland.
The country of Malta is, in fact, an archipelago, which houses three main islands: Malta, where most opt to stay, Gozo, and the tiny Comino. If you have booked a trip to Malta but haven’t considered escaping the mainland then be sure to consider these following attractions!

The Blue Lagoon – Comino

With a name that immediately inspires pictures of hot sun and tropical paradise, the Blue Lagoon is a spot that can’t be missed. This tranquil azure pool provides bathers with a truly luxurious way to enjoy the heat of the summer.

Photo: Flavio Ensiki

Sheltered from potential storms and bad weather, the bay promises calm and clear waters all year round, which has also made it an increasingly popular spot for divers. The one drawback is the beach that lines the lagoon is relatively small comparatively, so be sure to get down early and secure yourself the perfect spot on the sands.

The Azure Window – Gozo

Perhaps the most beautiful natural spectacle in the whole country, travelers will miss out significantly if they fail to allot the time to head over to the island of Gozo and visit the Azure Window. The window itself it a spectacular limestone arch that reaches out into the sea. It was said to be the result of a vast cave system collapsing.

Although it’s no longer possible to explore on top of the window, due to erosion, there are plenty of companies who provide boat tours or there is a great view of the feature available from the shoreline. The nearby Inland Sea and Fungus Rock are also worthwhile attractions to check out in this area.

Rabat – Gozo

Known also as ‘Victoria’, this historical city is the capital of Gozo and its many winding streets make for a quaint and picturesque hotspot that all travelers should visit. The center of the city, known as the Citadel, is awash with fascinating history. With its earliest settlers dating back as far as the Neolithic period.

Photo: Adam Burt

Here you can find Bronze Age fortifications, developments from Phoenician and Roman invaders and spectacular Aragonese and Baroque architecture. In fact, the ancient city reads almost like a tapestry for the diversity of rulers Malta has seen over the years.

St Mary’s Tower – Comino

Standing alone atop the hill, this wonderful little sight is brilliant and must be appreciated.  It can be seen from both Malta and Gozo, and is a key feature of the country’s charm.
The tower was originally built in the 1600s as a tower to keep watch over the bay. It was still in use right up in 2002 and today it provides spectacular views over the bay. Just north of the tower is the Comino Barracks, which were used as soldier quarters during the Second World War.

Photo: James Stringer

Although spending your trip on Maltese mainland will provide with equally as many exciting and historically reverent attractions, it’s highly recommended to take at least a day to visit the country’s other islands. You won’t be disappointed