Everything To Do In Mellieha Malta: Northern Malta’s Hidden Gem

Here’s Your Guide To Mellieha Malta!

Welcome to beautiful Mellieha Malta! With its laid-back breezy vibes, lush mountains and dreamy turquoise Mediterranean waters, Malta’s most northern village is not to be missed. Lounge the day away on a local Mellieha beach or grab adventure by the reigns and explore St Agatha’s Tower and the quirky Popeye film set!

This cute little town in Northern Malta is an absolute must stop spot and I’m about to convince you why it needs to be on your Malta bucket list. Trust me when I say there is so much to do in Mellieha, you’ll want to extend your stay indefinitely!

Keep scrolling to find out what to expect in Mellieha, additional stops to add to  your Malta trip or the perfect itinerary for everything to do in Mellieha!

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What to Know About Mellieha

Nowhere in Malta can be deemed too far when traveling around the country! So, when I say Malta’s most northern village, what I mean is a 60 minute drive from its capital city, Valletta. Mellieha is home to gorgeous sandy beaches, a town brimming with life and panoramic views of the Maltese islands. Not to mention its rich history which makes it a place to remember. 

The first inhabitants of Mellieha can date back to 3000 B.C. where several megalithic remnants still remain standing today, including the Għajn Żejtuna and Hħajn Żejtuna temples.

Being close to the sea, Mellieha played a key role in Malta’s more modern history. Due to the increasing piracy problem in the 1600s, the Knights of St. John decided it was in their best interest to fortify parts of Malta’s coastline. This included the construction of the infamous Red Tower you can visit today.

During World War One, Mellieha served as a hub for British and Allied soldiers and in World War Two, it housed underground shelters for locals and soldiers. 

What started as a small  historical village has grown significantly into a booming, yet laid back, atmosphere where many regulars to Malta come for a relaxing seaside vacation! You can walk endlessly along the coast lines of Mellieha, go for a dip almost anywhere and watch the most magnificent sunset over the Mediterranean Sea.

What to do in Mellieha

Discover the best things to do in Mellieha, from stunning fortifications and colourfully painted balconies to boat trips and hidden beaches around every corner! There is plenty to do in Mellieha, so be sure to catch these 12 best things to do on your visit!

1. Visit Malta’s Biggest Beach Għadira Bay

No holiday in Malta is complete without a trip to its beautiful beaches of course! Especially Malta’s largest and longest beach, Għadira Bay. Here the waters are clear, warm and shallow and all you have to do is show up! Rent a sun bed, umbrella and expect kiosks to be selling drinks and snacks all afternoon. 

2. Check out the Popeye Village Film Set

Popeye Village has grown from its days as the film set for the 1980’s Musical Production with Robin Williams into a major Malta tourist attraction and theme park. Its quirky crooked buildings, swimming pools, water trampolines and inflatable obstacle course is open to toursits all year round.

If visiting Popeye’s Village isn’t necessarily your vibe, then you have to be sure to check out the incredible view point and photo opp from HERE!

3. Enjoy Breakfast, Brunch & Great Coffee at The Sea View Cafe & Bar

When it comes to a great cup of coffee, the Maltese know how to do it right. Especially at The Sea View Cafe & Bar. Common, you can’t tell me coffee doesn’t taste better when it’s seaside. 

4. Soak up the Sun at Għajn Tuffieħa 

With Għajn Tuffieħa’s steep clay slopes, red sand and clean, clear water, it’s easy to see why it ranks high on my list of best beaches in Malta. If you want a beach that will make your jaw drop to the sandy floor, then here you go! 

Also be sure to grab a sunset drink at Riviera Martinique, one of the best sunset spots in Mellieha!

5. Head Underground into a World War ll Air-Raid Shelter

Just a few steps from Mellieha’s main square step back in time to this World War ll air-raid shelter. Dug by hand this complex tunnel system is made up of long corridors, anti-blast chambers and private rooms big enough to house whole families. Be sure to look for the maternity section and national treasure room while inside!

6. Relax & Wade Through the Waters of Armier Bay

Holiday swims which involve water so clear you can see your pedicure will be the ones to remember. Armier Bay offers calm, clear and shallow waters. It’s a spot totally beloved by locals and with only a tiny fishing village in sight it makes for the perfect afternoon! 

7. Dazzle at the Views from St Agatha’s Tower

If you’re renting a car then it’s totally worth swinging by St Agatha’s Tower for the epic views. This 1649 watchtower, nicknamed the Red Tower, can be seen from almost every direction of Mellieha. Inside the tower is a small chapel if you’re lucky enough to head up there on a day it’s open.

8. Peer Inside the Coral Lagoon

This incredible natural wonder has to be on your Mellieha bucket list. The small sea cave and natural lagoon has crystal clear waters and is truly a Northern Malta gem! As you walk the coastal rock path from this nearby parking lot, you’ll glance down into the Coral Lagoon’s turquoise waters. Although you’ll get amazing views from the top, one of the best experience is from inside the cave!

To get inside the Coral Lagoon you’ll have to swim from a low part of the cliff out to the sea and around a few hundred meters, however the waves can get quite rough outside the cave. A great and safe option would be to rent a kayak or book a boat tour that takes you safely to and from the Coral Lagoon!

9. Eat, Drink, Relax, Repeat at Tortuga Beach

Offering sensational seafood, Mediterranean specialities and crystal-clear sea access. Enjoy a great lunch and ice cold cocktails while relaxing in their Lido!

10. Stroll Through Mellieha’s Historic Downtown

Mellieha has a gorgeous downtown where you can spend an afternoon soaking in the sun and drinking an iced coffee surrounded by historic buildings. Common, who wouldn’t want to spend their days strolling through a gorgeous limestone town?

11. Dip Your Toes in Glorious Ġnejna Bay

Nestled between clay slopes and limestone cliffs, Ġnejna Beach is another picturesque sandy beach in Mellieha Malta. Here you can enjoy a quieter, more secluded setting than the others close by!

12. Enjoy the Best Coffee in all of Malta at Coffee Circus

Coffee Circus is for coffee lovers and trust me when I say they’re only serving up goodness! You can catch the Coffee Circus crew all around Malta for a freshly roasted speciality coffee, but Coffee Circus Mellieha comes with a dash of an incredible view point!

13. Spend the Day at Paradise Bay Beach

This gorgeous secluded sandy beach is a popular spot among tourists and locals alike. Surrounded by cliffs, Paradise Bay Beach, is a great sun trap and is possibly one of the most attractive beaches on the island. Down the steep set of steps find beverages, food, umbrellas and sun beds as well as public toilets, shower facilities and water sports/activities rental options!

14. Eat at One80 Kitchen & Lounge

Incredible views over Mellieha Bay are waiting for you at One80 Kitchen & Lounge. Stop for a mesmerizing lunch view on your way to the beach or watch your afternoon melt into a sunset dinner. With delicious mezze-style sharing plates and an endless cocktail list you can’t go wrong at One80 Kitchen & Lounge.

15. Take a Dip in the Crystal Clear Waters of Golden Bay

Glorious golden dunes, spectacularly blue water and breathtaking panoramic views, this delightful swim spot is truly a must stop! Golden Bay is blessed with a vast expanse of silky russet sand. Sun beds and kiosks selling a range of tasty snacks are available for an ideal day soaking up the sun! 

Where to Stay in Mellieha

Now that we dove into all the amazing things to do in Mellieha, let’s figure out where we’re going to sleep? Here are my 3 favourite spots for luxury, mid-range and budget accommodations in Mellieha!

Luxury Stay in Mellieha: Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands

The Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands is a luxurious experience blending seaside coastal views with slick contemporary lines. Chic and elegantly modern, this resort and spa is located seaside with a private beach, lagoon and large pool. During summer rates includes 1 parasol and 2 sun loungers per room so can enjoy a unique Maltese experience while relaxing in style.

Check Prices For Casa Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands HERE!

Check Prices For Casa Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands HERE!

Mid-Range Stay in Mellieha: Paradise Bay Resort

Paradise Bay Resort is a great choice for sun seekers! Featuring 3 outdoor pools, and spacious, sunbathing terraces the resort also offers access to a private beach during the summer. The hotel also offers high-tech touches including a flat-screen TV, minibar as well as a beautiful bathroom with complimentary toiletries. A generous buffet-style continental breakfast is provided daily and guests can also enjoy a meal at one of the 3 on-site restaurants.

Check Prices For Paradise Bay Resort HERE!

Check Prices For Paradise Bay Resort HERE!

Budget Stay in Mellieha: Pergola Hotel & Spa

Also located in the heart of Mellieha, Pergola Hotel & Spa is a clean and comfortable boutique hotel, one of the very few budget options that can be found inside Mellieha itself is still a stunning option. Their helpful and friendly staff have a wealth of local information and provide you with everything you need to have an enjoyable stay.

Check Prices For Pergola Hotel & Spa HERE!

Check Prices For Pergola Hotel & Spa HERE!

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How To Get Around Mellieha

It’s pretty easy to get to Mellieha and get around it as well! Being a smaller coastal town you do have a couple of options when it comes to transport!

🚗 By Car: Renting a car is one of the easiest and efficient ways to get around Malta! It also means you are free to explore at your own leisure and aren’t constrained to the operating hours of public transport! We rented a car through Green Motion, one of the most inexpensive car rental companies on the island, it was great!

🚌 By Bus: Travel worry-free by bus! Malta’s only public transport system offers visitor passes and single use tickets depending on your preferences. Check out Malta’s bus system HERE!

👟 By Foot: Mellieha has a couple of pretty walkable parts to it, however you will definitely need a set of wheels to be able to see it all.

🚕 By Taxi: We all know and love Uber for the sole purpose of getting around the city safely and comfortably! I also recommend downloading Bolt before you go as it’s another very commonly used taxi service that acts just like Uber!

If you have any questions or just want to see some more travel content find me on Instagram at @agirl.enroute! I’m always happy to chat!

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Malta, undoubtably, is one of the most stunning countries I’ve ever visited. It’s historic charm, balmy beaches, pristine waters and vibrant culture immediately sucked me in. It was love at first sight! It’s quaint alleys, tasty pastizzi, incredible people and fascinating history should make Malta a top destination for all travelers. If you haven’t booked your flight yet, I’m sure my Malta blogposts will convince you otherwise! Check them out below…

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