LOTUS EATERS TRAVEL

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MALTA VERSUS SICILY: A THOUGHTFUL COMPARISON.

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When you start weighing up Malta and Sicily as your next Mediterranean escape, it’s easy to fall back on broad strokes: Malta, the tiny archipelago with a long history and British flair; Sicily, the sprawling Italian island packed with baroque towns, volcanoes and foodie riches. But if you’re anything like me — someone who craves atmosphere, detail, and the little things that shape your trip — you want to go beyond the clichés.

Having explored both in depth, I’ve come to see the big differences between the two islands. Both are Mediterranean jewels shaped by millennia of history, yet they offer distinct experiences and ambiences.

Here’s how I see them, from cities and culture, to food, transport, things to do, and the often-overlooked rhythms of everyday life.

Setting the Scene: Size, Geography and History

First, some context. Malta is a tiny archipelago just 93 kilometres south of Sicily, itself Europe’s largest island, sitting at the toe of Italy’s boot. Malta’s three main islands — Malta, Gozo, and Comino — together cover about 316 square kilometres. Sicily is more than 25 times larger, with an area of around 25,700 square kilometres.

So, when it comes to deciding between visiting Malta or Sicily, one thing to keep in mind is that if you visit Malta – you can pretty much visit most of the important tourist sites on the island in a week. Whereas, if you plump for Sicily – you’ll need to pick “a slice” of it. For example, the East or West.

Despite Malta’s small size, it packs a surprising amount of diversity, thanks in part to its long history as a naval hub. The British influence remains strong, from the language and driving on the left, to the double-decker buses and pubs.

Sicily, by contrast, is an Italian powerhouse: active volcanoes like Etna, endless coastlines, dramatic mountain towns, and a cultural identity shaped by Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans and Spanish alike.

Cities and Towns: Where to Stay and Explore

Where to stay in Malta

Valletta, Malta’s capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage city, one of the smallest national capitals in the EU, but it brims with baroque architecture, grand palaces and narrow streets. It feels like a living museum but with a heartbeat — cafés spill onto cobbled streets, the Mediterranean Sea sparkles from every angle, and the historic fortifications offer spectacular views. Valletta is walkable and extremely manageable in a couple of days. In fact, you can more than work your way around the city in just an afternoon.

A short ferry or bus ride away lie the Three Cities — Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua — with a quieter, more lived-in vibe. These harbourside towns are often overlooked but offer a more authentic glimpse of Maltese life and are just shockingly beautiful.

Sliema and St. Julian’s feel very different — these are Malta’s resort hubs. Sliema has trendy boutiques and a seaside promenade popular for walking, but it can feel more commercial and touristy. St. Julian’s is Malta’s party centre, packed with bars, clubs and restaurants, appealing more to young travellers and those seeking nightlife. It was a little much for us, if we are totally honest!

For a dose of rural Malta, Mdina and Rabat are wonderful places to stay. Two connected cities with loads of historical bits and pieces to visit, and a thriving food scene. Mdina has perhaps tipped a little far towards the “instagram crowd,” but Rabat remains unspoiled.

You can find our detailed guide to where to stay in Malta here.

Where to stay in Sicily

Sicily’s sheer size means your experience will vary wildly depending on where you stay.

Palermo, the island’s capital, is a vibrant chaos of markets, street food, and baroque churches. It took me a little while to find love for Palermo – not least because it is a sprawling city and you need a bit of time to find the good bits.

But once you get past that, Palermo feels much more real. You stumble on tiny spots where locals eat, markets that aren’t set up for tourists, and streets that buzz with real life — the kind where you hear shouts bouncing off balconies, sometimes heated rows over parking spots that somehow still sound almost poetic, and locals grabbing quick espressos standing at the bar before rushing off. It’s noisy, messy, and imperfect — exactly what makes it feel genuine.

Catania, on Sicily’s east coast, often gets written off as a bit industrial—people love to point out the ash from Etna that leaves a faint smudge on the buildings. But honestly, we blooming well loved it.

It’s a young, energetic city, thanks in part to the university, and has a proper buzz after dark. Even in our mid-thirties, we got completely swept up in it—ordering wine at midnight and somehow sitting down to dinner at 1am. There’s plenty to fill a day or two in the city itself, but it also makes an excellent base for day trips: up to Mount Etna, along the coast, or to the glossier delights of somewhere like Taormina.

Taormina is Sicily’s famous jewel of glamour and ancient ruins — home to a spectacular Greek theatre with views across the sea to Mount Etna. It’s where The White Lotus was filmed, and it definitely draws that kind of crowd. We didn’t totally fall for it — the views are bella bella, of course, and the theatre really is a marvel, but the queues for a simple coffee felt a bit much. It’s worth a day trip, no doubt. Unless you’re minted — in which case, book a suite, sip something sparkling on a terrace, and you’ll have a fabulous time.

Further afield, towns like Ragusa, Noto and Modica showcase Sicily’s baroque splendour without the crowds. The Val di Noto area, in particular, is a highlight if you appreciate architecture, history and smaller towns with authentic local life.

The Aeolian Islands, off Sicily’s northeast coast, offer a completely different pace — volcanic landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and charming fishing villages, perfect for a side trip or longer stay.

Getting Around: Transport Realities

Malta: small, walkable, and bus-Friendly

One of Malta’s biggest advantages is its size. Getting around is straightforward. Valletta is fully walkable, and public buses connect the main towns and resorts reliably, albeit slowly due to traffic. Routes to popular spots like Mdina and the port in the North with access to Gozo are easy to navigate.

You can also take a number of ferries direct from Valletta to Gozo, Silema and the Three Cities.

Car hire is not always necessary unless you want to explore remote areas. And, for most travellers, the bus and maybe a few organised tours will do just fine.

You can find our guide to a 7 day itinerary in Malta here – how to get around without a car.

Sicily: vast and you may need a car

Sicily is a different beast because of the size.

Clearly, if you want to spend an entire week in Cefalu or a beach resort, you won’t need a car.

For others, public transport is sometimes an option. Transport in/out of Palermo and Catania for day trips is fine – perfectly serviceable, once you’ve learnt the quirks. Inter city bus and train services can be good to – for example, buses can take you from Agrigento in the South all the way to Palermo in the South. And trains between major cities are fairly reliable.

It’s possible to hire a car, and many visitors do. Just think carefully about parking and avoid leaving valuables in your car. And of course, it might be a bit of a trope, but be prepared for some chaotic driving at times.

If you don’t fancy getting a car – you can find our itinerary for visiting East Sicily without a car.

Food and Drink: A Delicious Intersection of Cultures

Malta’s Unique Fusion

Maltese cuisine offers a mix of local and international flavours, reflecting Mediterranean staples alongside Middle Eastern and British influences. Fresh vegetables, seafood, and simple, honest ingredients are everywhere — think familiar Mediterranean basics like tomatoes, olives, and fresh herbs. But if I’m honest, a lot of my meals came down to pasta and pizza, which are as common here as anywhere in the Mediterranean.

Traditional Maltese dishes like fenek (rabbit stew), bragioli (beef olives), and ftira (Maltese flatbread sandwiches) are definitely worth trying, and of course, you can’t visit without sampling pastizzi — flaky, cheesy pastries that are utterly delicious, though probably not the healthiest choice if you’re watching your diet.

Valletta and Mdina offer more polished dining options, often with solid wine lists. Speaking of wine, Malta’s vineyards — especially those near Gozo — are gaining ground for producing interesting, characterful wines, though they’re not yet as widely known as Sicilian varieties.

One local drink that caught my attention was Kinnie, a bittersweet soft drink made from bitter oranges and herbs. It’s uniquely Maltese and refreshing, perfect as a non-alcoholic alternative.

Sicily: Italy’s Rich Culinary Heart

Sicilian food absolutely slaps. Even after walking a long-distance hiking trail across the island, I somehow managed to put on a few kilos in just a month.

Burrata oozes with indulgence, and pistachio paste — creamy, dreamy, and everywhere — finds its way onto cornettos, cannoli, and pretty much anything you can think of. Honestly, you could probably brush your teeth with it. And then there’s the gelato…

Charcuterie and spritz for Aperitivo became our daily ritual — part celebration, part right of passage. Then there are the quirks of Sicilian cuisine: chickpea fritters, fried seafood, and arancini — all decadently fried, all totally worth the splurge. Pasta here is on another level. Pasta alla Norma quickly became a regular on our table, paired with a carafe of crisp white wine and a fresh, zingy salad.

But Sicily isn’t stuck in tradition alone. Beyond the classics, there’s a growing scene of vegan spots, trendy tapas-style places, and inventive dining that keeps things interesting. The markets in Palermo and Catania are a colourful riot, bursting with street food that feels alive and vibrant — a true taste of the island’s layered history and food-centred present.

Things to Do: Culture, Beaches, and Beyond

Malta: Forts, Temples and Blue Lagoons

Malta surprised me with just what a treasure trove it is for history buffs. The prehistoric Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra temples, dating back to 3600 BC, are among the oldest free-standing structures in the world. The fortified city of Mdina offers a quiet glimpse into medieval Malta, while the grand harbour fortifications tell tales of the Knights of St John.

For nature and swimming, the Blue Lagoon on Comino is perhaps the most famous — if a little cliched. But the remainder of Malta’s coastline also offers plenty of hidden coves and rocky beaches for quieter moments. Gozo punches well above it’s weight when it comes to glorious swimming spots too, plus the vast red sanded beach Ramlay Bay.

You can read our guides to the best beaches in Malta and Gozo.

Water sports are popular, with diving being a particular highlight thanks to Malta’s underwater wrecks and caves. And, there are lots of day hikes you can take around the coast of Malta too. We walked 10 days around the entire coastline, but you don’t have to be quite so hardcore!

In general, because Malta has so many delightful harbour towns and charming cities, you could spend a week just having a proper mooch around. If getting lost in backstreets and taking loads of colourful photos is your thing, Malta will delight. It also has a ton of great spots for a “proper lunch” i.e. long, with lots wine and good views.

Find our guide to the best things to do in Malta in seven days here.

Sicily: Volcanoes, Baroque Towns and Coastal Charm

Sicily’s diversity means there’s something for every interest. Hiking up Mount Etna — Europe’s largest active volcano — is a bucket-list experience, with lava fields, crater views, and a unique lunar landscape.

Exploring the baroque towns of the Val di Noto, visiting ancient Greek ruins in Agrigento and Syracuse, or wandering the medieval streets of Cefalù offer endless cultural delights.

The island’s coastline is spectacular: sandy beaches like San Vito Lo Capo contrast with rugged cliffs in the Zingaro Nature Reserve. The Aeolian Islands add volcanic hiking and thermal springs to the mix. Sweeping beaches like Pozzallo to the South. And the quaint seaside charm of Syracuse and Ortigia.

Sicily also has a rich musical tradition, with festivals celebrating everything from opera to folk music.

If you pick an area of Sicily, you’re bound to find lots to do. From food markets and historic sights. But don’t take your eye off the prize, visiting Sicily is much more about slipping into life, watching the world go by and relaxing – than it is about ticking of things to do.

Find our guide to the best things to do in East Sicily here.

What You’ll Feel on the Ground

Malta, despite its tourism, manages to retain an authentic feel in many areas. Beyond the resort bustle of St Julian’s, you’ll find intimate moments — elderly men playing chess in village squares, fishermen hauling nets, and locals chatting over espresso in tiny cafés. But, if you want authentic vibe, stay away from the centre of Valletta and the likes of St Pauls and Silema.

Sicily’s authenticity varies by location. Cities like Palermo pulse with life and a raw edge (away from the centre); the baroque towns offer a quieter, slower pace. Rural villages and mountain hamlets hold onto centuries-old traditions. Yet, some tourist spots, particularly around Taormina or coastal resorts, can feel commercialised.

Let’s be honest, both islands are well worth your time visiting. I do think that Malta is having a bit of a “moment”, it’s sort of become cool again. Now is the time to visit, before it becomes too popular. Sicily however, has always and will always be a steady and reliable favourite.

Price Comparison

Generally, Malta tends to be more affordable in terms of accommodation, particularly outside Valletta (which is remarkably spenny). And off season too. For example, we were able to get decent double rooms for €40-50 outside of the Valletta.

Food prices are reasonable; casual dining and street food are excellent value (pastizzi will cost you about 50 cents!) Being smaller and well-connected by bus means transport costs remain low without a car.

One thing we did notice in Malta, is that coffee is much more expensive than in Italy – €2+ in general. Versus the standard €1 espresso that we known and love in Sicily.

Sicily can be equally budget-friendly, but costs vary greatly by region and season. Cities like Palermo offer cheap eats and affordable guesthouses, but prices rise in tourist hotspots like Taormina or near Mount Etna. Hiring a car adds to your budget but gives you freedom to explore.

So, which should you choose?

If your trip is short — a long weekend or a week — Malta’s compact size, easy transport, and blend of history and seaside make it an unbeatable choice. It’s ideal for travellers who want a “depth rather than breath” experience with minimal logistics.

Sicily rewards a longer visit, not least because of the size. At least 10 days to two weeks, if you want to scratch beneath the surface.

Both islands offer incredible Mediterranean charm, but your choice hinges on your travel style: Malta for concentrated, easily navigable history and seaside; Sicily for sprawling, diverse adventures and gastronomic exploration.

Find all Malta & Sicily resources here

You can find all city guides and itineraries for Malta and Sicily below.

Written by Emma

Wine Lover. Yogi. Hiker. Writer.

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Where to next in Sicily?

We’ve got loads of similar guides to help you explore Sicily more. Find them below:

• One day in Palermo: A guide to seeing the best bits
• Visiting Mondello Beach from Palermo
• One day in Cefalu: A day trip from Palermo
• One idyllic day in Syracuse & Ortigia
• Palermo or Catania: Where should you start your Sicily adventures?
• One day in the city of Catania: An unexpected gem
• Day trips from Catania: 9 of the best
• Best things to do in Modica for the day
• A guide to Ragusa: things to do and where to stay
• Modica or Ragusa – which is better?
• Pozzallo Beach – the traditional sandy beach town dream
• Best things to do in Sutera, Sicily
• Walking in Sicily on the Magna Via Francigena
• A two week itinerary in Sicily – how to travel without a car

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