The Best Picnic Places in Malta: Where Nature, History, and Sea Views Meet
Malta may be small in size, but it offers an impressive variety of picnic spots, from dramatic cliffside views and tranquil countryside valleys to family-friendly parks and sandy beaches. Thanks to its mild climate, picnicking in Malta is enjoyable nearly year-round, making it a favorite way for locals and visitors alike to relax, socialize, and reconnect with nature. Whether you prefer a shaded green space or a breathtaking sea view, Malta has the perfect picnic setting for every taste.
Buskett Gardens: Malta’s Green Heart
Buskett Gardens is arguably the most popular picnic spot in Malta—and for good reason. Located near Rabat, this woodland area is one of the greenest places on the island, offering much-needed shade during warmer months. Tall trees, winding paths, and open clearings make it ideal for families, couples, and group gatherings.
Buskett is especially lively on weekends and public holidays, when locals come prepared with picnic blankets, homemade food, and portable barbecues (in designated areas). Its proximity to the Verdala Palace and the Dingli countryside also adds a historical and scenic element to your visit.
Dingli Cliffs: Picnic with a View
For those who prefer dramatic scenery, Dingli Cliffs offer one of the most breathtaking picnic locations in Malta. Perched at the highest point on the island, these cliffs provide sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea and unforgettable sunsets.
While Dingli Cliffs are less shaded than other picnic spots, the open landscape makes them perfect for cooler days and sunset picnics. Bring a blanket, enjoy the sea breeze, and watch the sky change colors as the sun dips below the horizon. This spot is particularly popular with couples and photography lovers.
Għadira Nature Reserve & Mellieħa Bay
Għadira Nature Reserve, located near Mellieħa, is a wonderful picnic option for nature enthusiasts. As Malta’s largest wetland, it attracts a variety of birdlife and offers a peaceful environment for a relaxed outdoor meal. Picnic tables and shaded areas nearby make it comfortable and family-friendly.
Just a short walk away is Mellieħa Bay, Malta’s largest sandy beach. Many visitors combine a picnic with a swim or a leisurely walk along the shoreline. This area is ideal for a full day out, especially in spring and early autumn when temperatures are pleasant.
San Anton Gardens: Elegance and Tranquility
Located in Attard, San Anton Gardens offer a more refined picnic experience. Surrounded by fountains, ponds, and beautifully manicured plants, these gardens provide a calm and scenic escape from busier areas.
While large picnics are discouraged, San Anton Gardens are perfect for a light, relaxed picnic—think sandwiches, pastries, and coffee enjoyed on a bench. Its central location makes it easily accessible and ideal for a short, peaceful break during a day of sightseeing.
Majjistral Nature and History Park
Majjistral Nature and History Park, located along Malta’s northwest coast, is perfect for adventurous picnickers who enjoy rugged landscapes and coastal hikes. This protected area features rocky trails, wild vegetation, and stunning sea views, offering a more untouched and natural picnic experience.
There are fewer facilities here, so it’s best suited to those who come prepared. The reward is tranquility, fresh air, and panoramic views that feel far removed from urban life.
Upper Barrakka Gardens: Picnic Above the Grand Harbour
For a picnic with history and one of the best views in Malta, Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta are hard to beat. Overlooking the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities, this spot combines lush gardens with iconic Maltese scenery.
Benches and shaded areas make it comfortable, while nearby cafés and take-away options make it easy to grab food before settling in. It’s a great choice for a casual picnic during a day of exploring Valletta.
A Simple Pleasure, the Maltese Way
Picnicking in Malta is about more than just eating outdoors—it’s about slowing down, enjoying good company, and appreciating the island’s natural beauty. Whether surrounded by trees in Buskett, overlooking the sea at Dingli Cliffs, or relaxing near historic harbors, every picnic spot in Malta offers its own unique charm.
From family outings to romantic sunset moments, Malta’s picnic places invite you to experience the island in a relaxed, authentic way—one blanket, one view, and one shared meal at a time.
