Malta vs. Sicily: Which Should You Visit In 2024?
Trying to decide between Malta and Sicily for your next vacation?
Then you’ve come to the right place!
Sicily and Malta share many common features. Both these Mediterranean islands have deep and interesting histories, stunning beaches, and delicious food. However, despite these commonalities, Sicily and Malta provide vastly different travel experiences.
I’ve traveled around both islands, and Sicily was my favorite of the two. In my opinion, Sicily offers more diversity for travelers, has more scenic beauty, and is home to some of the best Greek and Roman ruins in the world.
When comparing Malta vs. Sicily, where you should go depends on your travel style, how much time you have, and what you’re interested in doing. In this post I’ll cover all those things and more so you can decide which island you should visit.
Please note this post may contain affiliate links. If you click on one, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. See my Privacy Policy for more information.
Map of Sicily and Malta
Malta vs. Sicily: Which Should You Visit?
How much time do you have?
How long your trip is makes a big difference when deciding between Malta or Sicily.
If you have one week or less, then visit Malta. Distances on this small island are short, and a week in Malta is enough to see the country’s highlights.
If you have longer than a week, then definitely head to Sicily. Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and has many more top sights.
What’s your budget?
Both Sicily and Malta are budget-friendly Southern European destinations, but Sicily is slightly more expensive than Malta. Expect to spend around €55-220 per person per day in Sicily, compared to €58-170 per person per day in Malta.
Of course, average daily travel costs really depend on what type of traveler you are, but, in general, Malta is cheaper for travel, and budget travelers or those looking for a cheaper holiday destination should visit Malta.
What are your interests?
History
Both countries have interesting history, beautiful beaches, and great food.
If you’re a city lover looking for a weekend city break, Palermo in Sicily or Valletta in Malta make excellent weekend trips. Palermo is a bigger city with more to see than Valletta, but Valletta is a bit more atmospheric.
If you’re interested in Roman history, Sicily is the better destination. Sicily’s Valley of the Temples in Agrigento is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world. At Villa Romana del Casale you can see the most intact Roman mosaics ever discovered. These two ancient sights, along with others across the island, are must-visits for anyone interested in broadening their knowledge of the ancient Romans.
Malta has its own share of history as well.
For such a small island, it packs a historical punch. However, unlike neighboring Sicily, Malta lacks remnants of their Roman past.
Instead, Malta is best known for its prehistoric Megalithic Temples. These remarkable examples of early human architecture predate the ancient Romans by approximately 4,000 years! But, given what little remains and is known about the civilizations that built these structures, you’ll need a high level of interest and a bit of imagination to appreciate them.
Beaches and Nature
Both Sicily and Malta are blessed with beautiful Mediterranean beaches. If you’re planning a beach vacation then Malta is your best choice. As a smaller island, you can base yourself in one town, like Sliema, and still explore a different beach each day.
Despite Malta being a better beach destination, I think Sicily is overall a more scenic island with more natural beauty. Outdoor enthusiasts should head to Sicily for more varied terrain and the opportunity to hike atop Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano.
Who are you traveling with?
Family Travel: Malta or Sicily?
I’ve traveled to both Malta and Sicily with kids, and both were very family-friendly destinations.
There are many fun things to do in Malta with kids, such as visiting the Malta National Aquarium, Playmobil Park, and Popeye’s Village. Not to mention the many beaches around the island.
In Sicily, kids will enjoy trekking (or taking a Jeep or snowcat ride) to the top of Mount Etna, noshing on sweet cannoli and other Sicilian desserts, and soaking up the sun on Sicily’s beaches.
While both are kid-friendly and wonderful family travel destinations, I would say Malta has a bit more to offer that’s geared directly toward children.
Solo Travel: Malta vs Sicily?
Malta and Sicily are both safe places to travel, even solo. I would say they’re quite equal in this regard.
Solo travelers, especially solo female travelers, should exercise caution and common sense while traveling solo in both countries. Petty crime is a problem in Sicily’s cities, and travelers should be careful with their bags and wallets while touring Palermo and Catania.
In Malta, Paceville is a popular nightlife area with many bars and clubs open into the early morning hours. Solo travelers should be cautious about excessive drinking and staying out late.
While this advice is mostly common sense, it’s good to keep these things in mind while traveling on both islands. In general, both Malta and Sicily are safe for solo travelers.
Romantic Getaway: Sicily or Malta?
When it comes to choosing between Sicily and Malta for a couples getaway, both Mediterranean islands offer unique experiences that cater to those seeking a romantic trip.
Sicily boasts stunning landscapes that create an enchanting backdrop for a romantic holiday. Charming coastal towns like Taormina offer couples delicious and intimate restaurants in which to savor delicious Sicilian cuisine, and beautiful beaches perfect for sunset strolls.
Smaller and more intimate, Malta offers a cozy atmosphere that may appeal to many couples. Its atmospheric and compact cities, such as Valletta and Mdina, are filled with narrow winding streets perfect for strolling hand-in-hand.
Whether you prefer exploring historical sites, lounging on pristine beaches, or savoring Mediterranean cuisine at a quaint restaurant, Malta’s smaller size can make it feel like your own private island paradise, perfect for a romantic escape.
Ultimately, both islands offer a romantic Mediterranean experience, and your preference may depend on the scale and atmosphere you’re looking for in your couple’s retreat.
Personally, I would choose Malta for a romantic getaway as its cities are more atmospheric, the islands are smaller, and there are many nice beaches tucked away and waiting to be explored with your significant other.
Top Highlights: Malta vs. Sicily
Malta Highlights
Gozo
Gozo, one of the three islands that make up the Maltese archipelago, is a top highlight when visiting Malta. On Gozo, you’ll find the historic temple of it-Tempji tal-Ġgantija, among the oldest in the world, and the charming town of Victoria, home to the impressive Cittadella.
With rugged coastlines, serene beaches like Ramla Bay, and picturesque villages, Gozo is an alluring island. We spent a full day touring the island, and it wasn’t enough to take in all the incredible sights.
Blue Lagoon
Visiting Malta’s Blue Lagoon is an absolute highlight for anyone traveling to Malta. Situated between the islands of Comino and Cominotto, the Blue Lagoon is famous for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters, making it a popular swimming and snorkeling spot. The water here is seriously the most striking shade of blue I’ve ever seen!
Despite being one of the top attractions in the country, it is a bit difficult to reach. The Blue Lagoon can only be reached by boat, so unless you hire a private charter you’ll need to book a tour.
No matter how you get there, this stunning spot is not to be missed!
Valletta
Valletta, Malta’s capital city, is a true highlight. Whether you’re coming to Malta for one day or 1 week, no trip to the island is complete without exploring Valletta.
With beautiful Baroque architecture, cobbled streets, and grand fortifications, Valletta is the historic heart and cultural core of the country.
Be sure to visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral, one of the most ornate churches I’ve ever seen (and that’s saying something, living and traveling in Europe!). The Upper Barrakka Gardens have the best views of the Grand Harbour and Three Cities.
With museums, theaters, delicious eateries, and a thriving café culture, there’s so much to discover in Valletta. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Valletta’s charm and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and stunning Mediterranean vistas.
Sicily Highlights
Valley of the Temples
The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, Sicily, is a testament to the island’s rich historical heritage and importance within both Greek and Roman societies.
This archaeological marvel showcases wonderfully preserved Greek and Roman ruins dating back to around 600 BCE, making it among the world’s most remarkable ancient sites. Visitors can wander amidst the grand temples and marvel at the sheer magnitude of the ruins.
The Valley of the Temples offers a fascinating glimpse into Sicily’s past, and I especially recommend it for travelers interested in antiquities and ancient civilizations.
Mount Etna
Mount Etna, a hulking giant and the most active volcano in Europe, is the focal point of western Sicily. Intrepid travelers can trek or take the cable car up this smoking volcano, then take a Jeep and guided tour to the summit.
While you can stay at a hotel on Mount Etna, the best way to visit is as a day trip from Taormina or Catania.
You never know, a visit to Mount Etna may end up being the highlight of your entire Sicily trip.
Palermo
Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, entices visitors with its captivating blend of history, culture, and bustling street life.
At the heart of the city, the Ballarò Market is a joy to stroll through with its colorful stalls and vendors singing out their wares to passersby.
Palermo’s churches, from the grand Palermo Cathedral to smaller baroque and Byzantine sanctuaries, showcase the city’s rich religious heritage and many architectural influences.
Another Palermo highlight is the Norman Palace, a magnificent architectural gem most famous for its chapel (Capella Palatina) decorated head-to-toe in gilded Byzantine mosaics.
Palermo is a joy to explore and eat your way through. This gritty and enchanting city is definitely one of the best places to visit in Sicily.
Which is Easier to Get Around, Sicily or Malta?
Malta is generally easier to get around than Sicily.
As a small island nation with a well-developed public transportation system, it’s easy to travel between cities and to major attractions in Malta. That being said, it can be hard to reach some of the more remote sights using public transport.
The Maltese love driving, which means that roads are well-maintained. I found the quality of roads in Malta better than those in Sicily. However, so many drivers also means a lot of traffic. Even driving small distances in Malta can take longer due to heavy amounts of traffic.
As the larger island and being more spread out, Sicily has little traffic outside the big cities of Palermo and Catania.
While both countries have public transportation, Malta’s is better connected than Sicily’s. You’ll definitely want to rent a car and drive in Sicily. In Malta, you can get away with taking taxis (which are very cheap there) from city to city and booking day tours or hire a car to get to sights further away.
Are Malta and Sicily Similar?
The only similarity between Malta and Sicily is that they’re both Mediterranean islands. Despite their proximity, these islands have very different histories and cultures.
Malta has a rich neolithic history, with some of the largest Megalithic temples in Europe. It’s also famous as the home of the Order of the Knights Hospitaller, commonly known as the Knights of Malta.
In contrast, Sicily has more Roman remains, including some of the best-preserved Roman Temples in the world. Sicily also has Moorish, Norman, and Italian history which can be seen in its food and architecture.
Another distinct difference between Sicily and Malta is the fact that Malta is an independent country while Sicily is part of Italy.
Is Malta Close to Sicily?
Malta and Sicily are closely situated within the Mediterranean.
At their closest points, the distance between the two is approximately 50 miles (80 kilometers). In fact, on a clear day, you can see the southern coast of Sicily from the northernmost point on the Maltese island of Gozo.
This relatively short distance makes it possible to travel between Malta and Sicily by ferry or plane. There are regular ferries and flights connecting the two islands, making it convenient for travelers to craft a Sicily and Malta travel itinerary.
How to Get to Malta From Sicily
Sicily to Malta Ferries
To get from Sicily to Malta, there are two ferry routes operating a total of 16 weekly ferries.
The best and most direct option for getting from Sicily to Malta via ferry leaves from the town of Pozzallo in southern Sicily. This ferry is operated by Virtu Ferries and takes only one hour and forty-five minutes. Prices start at €60 (more if you’re bringing a car).
You can also book a ferry from Catania to Valletta, but the ferry doesn’t actually leave from Catania. Instead, you will be transported by bus from Catania to Pozzallo, then take the ferry to Malta from Pozzallo. Total travel time for this route takes just under five hours.
Click here to check ferry prices and availability.
Click here to check ferry prices and availability!
Sicily to Malta Flights
A handful of airlines offer direct flights between Sicily and Malta, including a few European budget carriers.
Flights leave from Catania airport and fly into Valletta. The total flight time is 50 minutes.
Click here to check flight prices and availability!
How to Get From Malta to Sicily
Malta to Sicily Ferry
Ferries from Malta to Sicily operate 16 times per week and travel between Valletta and Pozzallo.
As with the ferries from Sicily to Malta, you can book a combination ticket that includes the ferry crossing and a bus to Catania.
Unfortunately, there are no ferries between Malta and Palermo and no direct ferries from Malta to Catania.
Click here to check ferry prices and availability!
Malta to Sicily Flights
To get to Sicily from Malta via air, you can fly directly from Valletta to Catania. The flight takes 50 minutes, and you can choose from a handful of airlines, including European budget carriers.
Click here to check flight prices and availability!
FAQ: Malta vs. Sicily
On a clear day, you can see the southern coast of Sicily from the northern coast of the Maltese island of Gozo.
The ferry from Malta to Sicily takes 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Malta is located south of Sicily in the Mediterranean Sea. It is approximately 80 miles( 127 km) south of Sicily.
Yes, there are a few tour operators offering day trips from Malta to Sicily (and Sicily to Malta).
Despite being so geographically close, Malta and Sicily are not particularly similar. Malta is more arid and rocky while Sicily has a fertile and diverse landscape. Their cultures and histories are also vastly different.
Yes, Malta can be seen from Sicily on a clear day.
Yes, there are a few day trips that visit Malta from Sicily.
Yes, Sicily is much bigger than Malta. Malta is 122 square miles (316 sq km) compared to Sicily which is 9,927 sq mi (25,711 sq km).
Malta is cheaper than touristy parts of Italy, such as Rome, the Amalfi Coast, and Venice. It is more on par, price-wise, with Sicily and other parts of southern Italy.
No, Malta does not belong to Italy. Malta is an independent country.
While both islands have scenic beauty, I prefer the scenery on Sicily. Overall, I thought Sicily was more beautiful than Malta.
Final Thoughts: Malta or Sicily, Which Should You Visit?
So, Malta or Sicily, which is better? While my preference is for Sicily, which destination you prefer will depend on your personal interests. Head to Sicily for Roman ruins, dramatic scenery, chaotic cities, and delicious Sicilian delicacies. Visit Malta to see some of the oldest human-built structures still in existence, learn about the Knights Hospitaller, and relax on beautiful Mediterranean beaches. Either way, you can’t go too wrong!