Malta’s diminutive size is no secret – our archipelago is one of the smallest nations in the EU, covering a dwarfish 316km² (Sicily has an area of 25,711km² – gigantic compared to the Maltese islands). Thus it comes as a surprise for some to learn about the stark differences between the northern and southern parts of the island, given that Malta is smaller than most European cities. The northern part of Malta is considered to be more touristic, and thereby it is more accessible than its southern counterpart, with the majority of hotels, restaurants and tourist spots being located in the north. Yet the south is a charming area full of striking surprises; from prehistoric caves to megalithic temples, and with breath-taking stretches of coastline in between. Here are our top five southern towns you should visit on your next trip to Malta!

1. Marsascala

Marsascala is probably one of the most recognisable names on this list – located on the south eastern coast of the island, this town truly has it all; beaches, places to eat, and a stunning promenade perfect for romantic strolls. Marsascala, or as it is better known among the Maltese, Wied il-Ghajn, is home to St Thomas Bay, a tiny stretch of sand with crystalline waters, and also to Zonqor Point, a popular rocky beach – making Marsascala the best place to visit if you can’t make up your mind on whether you want sand between your toes or sturdy rocks to dive from. Marsascala is also home to the run-down Jerma Hotel, which has since become a street-art paradise. This town exudes cool from every pore; whether you’re a beach bum, a foodie, a happy hour chaser, or a photographic genius, Marsascala will wow you in one way or another.

2. Birzebbugia

Birzebbugia is known as being the south’s beach town, a sort of Maltese Miami, with palm trees swaying in the breeze, white sand and turquoise sea. As a southerner, Pretty Bay in Birzebbugia is probably the first beach you visit with your friends when you’re growing up, as it is the nearest beach accessible by bus. Even with the recognisable Freeport on the horizon, Pretty Bay still manages to live up to its name. If an authentic Maltese experience is what you’re after, head to the Bay on weekend evenings in the summer, and join a friendly game of Tombla, the Maltese version of bingo. If a more cultural experience is what you’re after, then head to Ghar Dalam, a cave whose lower layers date back to 500,000 B.C., where remains of dwarf elephants and hippos were found. A visit to Malta’s oldest prehistoric site is a definite must when visiting this quaint seaside town.

3. Marsaxlokk

Yes, the other Marsa prefixed town in the south is a well-known fave among tourists, with many flocking to its Sunday Market looking for bargains or fresh fish, or both. This side of Marsaxlokk is pretty neat, we must admit. However, this town keeps its most glorious gems tucked away behind winding country roads, so they’re overlooked by many travellers visiting this fishing village. The horse-shoe shaped rocky beach of St Peter’s Pool is one such gem – with jewel coloured waters which just beckon you to jump in. Its lesser known cousin, Delimara Bay is another stunning example, although it is a favourite of local cliff diving enthusiasts. The shy and reserved Xrobb l-Ghagin takes a longer while to get to; yet visiting this ravishing rocky beach is worth every wrong turn along the route. Trust us, this side of Marsaxlokk will outdo the side you see on postcards any day.

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4. Xghajra

Xghajra is a relatively unknown small town located near Zabbar, located on the south eastern shore of Malta. It is quite a seasonal town, with many Maltese owning summer houses and apartments here. What makes it stand out is its stunning rocky coastline, which extends to Zonqor Point in Marsascala. You can practically walk all the way from Xghajra to Marsascala following the coastline, enjoying the ravishing open sea. Xghajra is also incredibly close to Smart City, meaning you can pop by for a cocktail (or two) after you’ve finished exploring! This little town may not take up much space, yet it boasts an impressive coastline which rivals the one in Sliema.

5. Tarxien

Tarxien is a sleepy, midway town that is very often overlooked while travelling through the south. This town is located close to Paola; however it is much more peaceful than its neighbouring sister. A stroll through Tarxien will get you many an Instagram worthy shot of #maltadoors and if you wander long enough, you might just come across one of the oldest free-standing structures on this earth.

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Yes, things escalate that quickly around here. One minute you’re Instagramming doors, the next you’re faced with a huge statue depicting the lower half of a very large lady, which dates back to around 3000 B.C. The Tarxien Temples are the town’s main attraction, and for good reason. These immaculately preserved temples are impressive to say the least, and house carvings and statues which were not found anywhere else on the island. So next time you see Tarxien on your bus route, why not stop and have a look?