When people ask, "how many islands make up Malta?", the answer depends on how you count. The most common answer focuses on the three largest islands: Malta, Gozo and Comino. Some guides also include a short list of smaller, uninhabited islets, bringing the "everyday" count to eight.

This Yellow Pages guide covers all 8 islands and islets that are often referenced in travel planning and general geography lists: Malta, Gozo, Comino, Manoel Island, Cominotto (Kemmunett), St Paul's Islands (Selmunett), Filfla, and Filfoletta (Filflett). You may see longer lists elsewhere (for example, including Fungus Rock and other tiny rocks), but these eight are a practical set to know and spot.

1. Malta

Malta is the country's hub and the base most visitors use. It offers the densest mix of experiences: historic cities, coastal swims, family-friendly promenades, museums, and short drives to viewpoints in every direction. If you want to collect the archipelago efficiently, Malta is the best base for day trips to Gozo, Comino, and boat routes that pass smaller islets.

2. Gozo 

Gozo is Malta's more rural sister island, known for open spaces, bays, and coastal scenery. It suits travellers who prefer quieter days, local food, and scenic routes rather than packed itineraries. Most people visit as a day trip, but an overnight stay makes a big difference if you want early-morning walks or sunset viewpoints without rushing.

3. Comino

Comino sits between Malta and Gozo and is famous for the Blue Lagoon. It is small, mostly uninhabited, and extremely popular in warm months. If you are visiting in peak season, plan around comfort and safety: go early, bring water and sun protection, and be prepared for limited shade. There is also a visitor management booking system for the Blue Lagoon introduced in 2025, so it is worth checking requirements before you go.

4. Cominotto 

Cominotto is a tiny uninhabited islet close to Comino and often mentioned in the same breath as the Blue Lagoon. Most visitors experience it visually, from the water, or as a nearby point while swimming and boating around the lagoon area. Think of it as part of the Comino day rather than a separate destination.

5. Manoel Island 

Manoel Island sits in the Marsamxett Harbour and is connected by road, so it is the simplest small island to visit without a ferry. The headline attraction is Fort Manoel, built by the Knights and positioned to protect Valletta's northern approaches. Even without going inside, the harbour-side walk offers great views and a calmer pace than nearby promenades.

6. St Paul's Islands 

St Paul's Islands lie off the northeast coast and are commonly associated with St Paul's Bay. They are a protected nature reserve and are ecologically sensitive. Practically, most people enjoy them from the mainland shore, from nearby walking routes, or as a photo stop on a boat trip that passes close by. If you are ever in doubt about access, treat them as a look-don't-touch site and keep your visit low-impact.

7. Filfla & 8. Filfoletta 

Filfla is the iconic flat-topped islet off the south coast, often visible from the Dingli cliffs area on clear days. It is legally protected as a nature reserve, and access is not a casual visit. The best way to appreciate Filfla is from viewpoints on land or from a licensed boat trip that keeps to permitted routes and conditions.

Filfoletta is a tiny rocky islet close to Filfla (as per the image above). It is not a day-trip destination, but it is a nice detail to know when you are looking out to sea from the south coast. For most people, it is part of the Filfla story: a reminder that Malta's coastline includes micro-islets with ecological importance far beyond their size.

Explore Responsibly

Several of Malta's smaller islands and islets are protected, and even where access is allowed, they are fragile. Stay on any marked paths, take litter with you, avoid disturbing wildlife, and respect any rules or booking systems designed to reduce pressure on sensitive sites. This is especially important in peak season, when small places can be overwhelmed very quickly.