Walking is one of the best ways to experience Malta properly, not as a checklist of "things to do", but as a place you can feel. On foot, the Maltese islands slow down in the best way: the limestone under your shoes, the smell of the sea on a windy headland, the sudden quiet you find just a few turns away from a busy road. 

The best part is how flexible it is. You can keep it easy with a gentle walk that ends with a coffee or push a little further for a route that feels more like an adventure; with climbs, uneven ground, and hidden corners you'd never notice from a car. And because the Maltese islands are compact, you can fit a walk into almost any day: sunrise and fresh air before work, a golden-hour loop after lunch, or a longer weekend route when you want to properly switch off.

This guide brings together some of the best walking spots in Malta, from easy to challenging, so you can choose a route that matches your pace and still come home feeling like you discovered something new.

Level 1 – Easy Walks 

For anyone who wants a relaxed, low effort walk families, beginners, casual walkers, or anyone looking for flat routes with easy footing and plenty of stopping points.

1. Sliema-St Julian's Promenade 

If you want a no-stress walk with plenty of benches and stops for coffee, this is the classic. You can do a short out-and-back or keep going for a longer stretch, it is easy to adapt to your day.

2. Valletta: City Walks with Views

Valletta is surprisingly walkable if you keep it simple: a loop that takes in the main streets and viewpoints gives you history, architecture, and sea views without needing to "hike". Early morning is especially pleasant before the city gets busy.

3. Mdina & Rabat 

For a calmer pace, Mdina and Rabat are ideal. Think: quiet streets, old stone, and short scenic stretches. It's also a good option on windy days when exposed coastal paths feel too much.

Level 2 – Medium Walks 

These are the sweet spot for many people: more nature, more views, and more of that "escape" feeling, yet still doable without being a full-on hike. Expect uneven ground and the occasional climb, so shoes with grip help.

4. Għar Tuta (Mellieħa Area)

A short "mini adventure" walk that feels like you have found a hidden corner of Malta. The approach is manageable, but the terrain around the cave area can be uneven and steeper in places, take it slow and avoid it if it is windy or slippery.

5. Selmun (Selmun Palace Circular Walk Area)

This is a brilliant scenic route if you like coastal views and a bit of variety — you'll get stretches of coastline, viewpoints, and a real "northern Malta" feel. It's generally considered intermediate, with a mix of up/down sections and a longer distance than a casual stroll. Bring water because there aren't reliable stops along the route. 

6. Għajn Tuffieħa to Golden Bay (Coastal Classic)

A scenic coastal walk that's rewarding without being extreme. It's more demanding than a promenade because you'll deal with sand, steps, and uneven paths, but the views do the heavy lifting.

Level 3 – Challenging Walks 

For experienced walkers who enjoy longer routes, steeper sections, and rougher terrain. These are best if you're confident on uneven ground, prepared with water/shoes, and happy to pace yourself.

7. Victoria Lines (Madliena / Baħar ic-Cagħaq)

Often described as one of Malta's most iconic longer walks, Victoria Lines can be done in sections and rewards you with big views across the island. It is also historically interesting, but the main point being it is long (approximately twelve kilometres), and parts can be rough underfoot, so plan your entry/exit points.

8. Fomm ir-Riħ (Mġarr)

A favourite for people who want rugged scenery and a more remote feel. It can be steep and uneven, and conditions matter a lot, if it's windy or the ground is slippery, it's not the day for it.

9. Selmun to Mistra (Coastal Stretch)

A longer coastal route that feels properly wild in parts, with open sea views and a real sense of distance once you're committed. It's more demanding than the Selmun area loops because it's typically longer, more exposed, and can include uneven ground depending on the exact path you take, so it's best tackled in good weather and outside peak heat.

Level 4 – Extreme Walks (Rugged, Remote, & Weather-Dependent)

These routes are Malta at its most dramatic, but they're also the most unforgiving. Expect steep descents, loose rock, exposed coastal sections, and long stretches with little shade or no nearby services. Only tackle these in good conditions and always plan your turnaround point. For experienced, confident walkers who are comfortable with steep and uneven terrain, can handle heat/wind exposure, and come prepared (water, grippy footwear, and a realistic plan for the way back).

10. Wied Babu (Zurrieq)

A proper "earned view" route. Wied Babu feels adventurous because you are heading down through valley terrain towards the sea, with uneven ground and sections that can be slippery after rain. It is not the kind of walk you want to rush, the descent is one thing, but the climb back out is what makes it feel extreme. Best to do this in summer, as at the bottom of Wied Babu lies a Blue Lagoon-like pool of water which is amazing to swim in. 

11. Fomm ir-Riħ (Remote Coastal Descent)

Wild, rugged, breathtaking, and steep in places with rough footing. This is one of those routes where conditions matter a lot: if it's windy, very hot, or the ground is loose, it becomes a different level of difficult. Go slow and don't treat it casually.

Whether you're heading out for a short stroll or planning a longer walk, Malta rewards those who explore it at ground level. Many of these routes pass through parks, valleys, coastal areas, and village cores, making it easy to combine a walk with a stop for coffee, a meal, or time outdoors with family and friends. If you're looking for more ways to enjoy Malta outside, these walking spots are a good place to start, and they naturally connect to other outdoor activities, coastal areas, and green spaces across the islands.

About Matthew Gollcher

Hi I'm Matthew, a content writer and Business & Marketing student at the University of Malta. I'm passionate about creating meaningful content and exploring AI's creative possibilities. When I'm not working or studying, I enjoy the gym, time with friends, watching series, and playing guitar. I'm always eager to learn and grow both personally and professionally.