Malta: Private Day Tour to Hagar Qim, Blue Grotto & Mdina

Summary

Malta’s ancient temples, Marsaxlokk boats and the silent city in a single day

You’ll wander Malta’s lively markets in Marsaxlokk, stand among ancient stones at Hagar Qim, gaze over blue water at the grotto cliffs, and get lost in Mdina’s silent streets — all with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story. It’s a day full of small surprises you’ll remember longer than you expect.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, we almost missed the start because I got distracted by a cat weaving between our legs outside the hotel — apparently that’s good luck here? Our guide, Joseph, just grinned and waited while I tried to coax it out from under the van. That set the tone: nothing rushed, everything easy. We headed straight for Marsaxlokk first, where the market was already buzzing and those painted luzzu boats bobbed like candy in the bay. The smell of fresh bread from a stall mixed with seawater — not something I’d expected to remember so clearly.

Joseph seemed to know everyone. He pointed out which fisherman had been out since dawn (his cousin, apparently), and told us how to say “good morning” in Maltese — I tried it, got a laugh from an old lady selling tomatoes. After that, we wound through narrow streets toward Birgu and the Three Cities. There was this tiny garden overlooking the port where pigeons cooed louder than the traffic below. I didn’t expect to feel so peaceful in such a busy spot.

The Blue Grotto was next — we skipped the boat ride because clouds were rolling in (Joseph said it gets choppy fast), but even from above, that blue looked unreal against the cliffs. He showed us Filfla island on the horizon; apparently nobody lives there except lizards and birds. Then came Hagar Qim — standing stones older than Stonehenge. Touching them felt strange, like time folded up for a second. We could’ve just snapped photos but ended up getting tickets for a quick wander inside instead… worth it for how quiet it was compared to outside.

Mdina came near sunset; golden light on limestone walls, barely any cars or noise except our footsteps echoing down alleys. At one point I stopped just to listen (and okay, catch my breath). Joseph told us how locals call it “the Silent City” — he wasn’t kidding. There was one last church stop where he shared some wild story about pirates hiding treasure beneath its floorboards (not sure if he made that up). Anyway, by then my phone battery was dead but honestly I didn’t care — sometimes you don’t need more photos.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Malta's key sights and views

• Visit Marsaxlokk fishing village and market
• Stop at Gardiola Garden and Freedom Monument
• Enjoy panoramic view of Blue Grotto and Filfla
• View Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples
• Explore narrow streets of the Silent City
• See famous large church with thrilling story
• Admire cliffs and panoramic chapel view

Top questions

How long does this private Malta day tour last?

The tour covers a full day with multiple stops around Malta including Marsaxlokk, Hagar Qim temples, Blue Grotto, Three Cities and Mdina.

Is hotel pickup included in this Malta private tour?

Yes, pickup is included with an air-conditioned vehicle for your group.

Can infants or small children join this Malta day trip?

Yes—infants can ride in prams or strollers; infant seats are available if needed.

Do we visit Hagar Qim temple inside or just see it from outside?

You can choose—a quick photo stop or buy entrance tickets for a short guided visit inside both Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples.

Is there time for a Blue Grotto boat ride?

A boat ride at Blue Grotto is optional depending on weather and timing; ask your guide during the tour.

Are service animals allowed on this Malta tour?

Yes—service animals are allowed throughout the tour stops.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup by air-conditioned vehicle with plenty of room for strollers or infant seats if needed; all main stops are flexible so you can linger or move on as you like; your local guide handles logistics while you enjoy each place at your own pace before returning comfortably at day’s end.