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Swimmers in turquoise water at Comino’s Blue Lagoon

A different shade of blue

Comino.

Plan your crossing and check current Blue Lagoon access arrangements.

Read the destination guide
Island CharacterThe Feeling

Unspoiled nature reserve, crystal turquoise water, sea arches

UnmissableKey Highlight

Morning swimming at the Blue Lagoon before excursion boats arrive

Getting ThereTransit & Access

15-minute small boat from Ċirkewwa, Marfa, or Mġarr (Gozo)

Suggested PacingTime to Allocate

3 to 5 hours

Start exploring.

Swimmers in turquoise water at Comino’s Blue LagoonVISIT MALTA
OUT ON THE WATER3 MIN READ

Comino: more than a turquoise photograph.

What to check before a Blue Lagoon day, from visitor reservations to your return boat.

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A quiet limestone street in MdinaVISIT MALTA
FIND YOUR BASE3 MIN READ

Where to stay, for the Malta you want.

Choose a neighbourhood around your days, not just the hotel photograph.

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An aerial view over Valletta’s limestone buildingsVISIT MALTA
THE SHORT ESCAPE3 MIN READ

Three days. A little less rushing.

A flexible Malta itinerary that leaves room for the unexpected.

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MALTESE CITIES, TOWNS & VILLAGES

Explore Malta’s cities from within.

Comprehensive, research-backed guides for Malta and Gozo’s most iconic settlements—from the colorful fishing fleet of Marsaxlokk to the silent bastions of Mdina. No third-party redirect required.

Mellieħa
North MaltaIl-Mellieħa

North Malta · DESTINATION DOSSIER

Mellieħa

Sandy Bays, Cliff Sanctuaries & Gateway to Gozo

Perched on high ridges overlooking Malta’s largest sandy beaches, Mellieħa is a picturesque northern town famous for Għadira Bay, historic watchtowers, and the scenic ferry gateway to Comino and Gozo.

View in Itineraries Ferry & Bus Routes

Key Highlights & Unmissable Spots

  • Għadira Bay (Mellieħa Bay)—Malta’s largest shallow sandy beach
  • Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mellieħa with subterranean cave chapel
  • St. Agatha’s Tower (The Red Tower) commanding panoramic ridge views
  • Popeye Village (Sweethaven) historic 1980 film set in Anchor Bay
  • Majjistral Nature and History Park coastal trails

Getting There & Public Transit

Bus Routes:
Bus 41Bus 42Bus 49Bus 221Bus 222Bus X1
Travel Time:50 minutes by bus 41 or 42

Transit Tip: Bus 222 connects Sliema/St. Julian’s direct to Mellieħa and Ċirkewwa ferry terminal.

Culinary Tradition & What to Eat

Specialty: Fresh grilled fish, Maltese rabbit, and seaside pizza overlooking the sandy bay.

Local Recommendation: One80 Kitchen & Lounge overlooking Mellieħa parish church or Rebekah’s for elevated Mediterranean dining.

Best Timing & Coastal Access

Ideal Hours: Spring for hiking in Majjistral Park; summer mornings for beach days before midday sun.

Nearby Bays:
Għadira BayGolden BayGħajn TuffieħaParadise BayArmier Bay
Local Insider Secret: Visit the Red Tower (Torri l-Aħmar) late in the afternoon—from the roof, you can clearly see across the South Comino Channel to Gozo.

Handpicked Tours & Activities

Curated third-party experiences in Mellieħa for independent reader comparison. Direct operator links; not inspected commercial endorsements.

ViatorAdventure Pick
Coral Lagoon & St. Paul’s Island Sea Kayak & Snorkel Odyssey
4.9 (520)⏱️ 3 hours
  • Paddle inside open-ceiling sea cave
  • Crystal-clear snorkel reefs
  • Professional guide & gear
From€45
Compare on Viator
Booking.comFamily Fun
Popeye Village & Anchor Bay Coastal Speedboat Experience
4.7 (290)⏱️ 2 hours
  • Anchor Bay film set view from sea
  • Smugglers Cave swim stop
  • Thrilling speed runs
From€30
Compare on Booking.com