Take time to explore the islands of Malta and Gozo with their 3,000 hours of sunshine and 30,000 years of history. Here are some itineraries to ponder:
Valletta Malta’s capital, Valletta, measures only 1km by 600m, with every street leading to the sea. This walled city boasts a harmonious ensemble of 16th- and 17th-century townhouses fronted by traditional Maltese balconies. In recent years, Valletta has blossomed with new restaurants, renovated buildings, and an emerging nightlife area on Strait Street, its former red-light district. You’ll feel the excitement the moment you walk through the striking City Gate and see the cutting-edge Parliament Building and Opera House—all three monuments designed by Renzo Piano.
Vittoriosa’s Backstreets Vittoriosa, the most fascinating of Malta’s Three Cities, is an ancient town perched on a small lip of land, offering stunning views and perfectly preserved streets. Still known locally as Birgu (its name before the Great Siege of 1565), Vittoriosa was the original home of the Knights of Malta. Their headquarters, Fort St. Angelo, opened to the public in late 2015. However, this town is no museum—it’s a living, breathing city with a strong sense of community. If you visit in October, you’re in luck: the culmination of BirguFest sees the ancient streets lit solely by candles.
Hal Saflieni Hypogeum Visiting these ancient underground burial chambers is a unique, mysterious, and awe-inspiring experience. Amazingly preserved, these sacred spaces hollowed from the rock are around 5000 years old, with painted ochre patterns still visible decorating the ceilings of some sections. It’s a window into an enigmatic ancient world, leaving a beguiling and perplexing resonance. You’ll need to book several months ahead.
St. John’s Co-Cathedral The austere exterior of Valletta’s cathedral is no preparation for the frenzy of baroque gold and lavish decoration inside. The floor alone is a carpet of many-colored marble tombs, on which symbolic pictures are delicately rendered in stone. The chapels, each pertaining to an auberge, vie to outdo each other in opulence. The highlight is Caravaggio’s Beheading of John the Baptist in the Oratory—the largest work ever produced by the artist.
Mdina & Rabat Malta’s tiny former capital, Mdina, is a walled city perched on a hilltop, filled with beautiful honey-colored buildings. During the day, it’s a treasure trove of museums, artifacts, and churches (including Malta’s stunning second cathedral). At night, it becomes appealingly mysterious when everything’s closed, and the city is dimly lit and empty. Wander around after most people have left, and you’ll understand why it’s known as the ‘Silent City’. Mdina adjoins Rabat, a lovely town with some fascinating sights, many of them underground.
The island of Gozo (14 km by 7 km) may be smaller than Malta, but it deserves ample time to explore. Thanks to its modest size, you can easily base yourself almost anywhere, especially if you have your own set of wheels, which is recommended. Another great way to get around is by hiring a bicycle (available on Gozo) or an electric bike (to help with the hills)—the latter must be collected in Malta and brought to Gozo on the ferry. For the best experience, consider renting a charming Gozitan farmhouse.
Exploring Victoria Start your visit by spending a morning exploring Victoria. Wander around the majestic Il-Kastell with its astounding views and narrow lanes of Il-Borgo. Then, head to the huddled seaside resort town of Marsalforn for a lazy lunch with sea views, followed by a visit to the dramatically set salt pans just outside the town.
Dwejra and Ta’ Pinu, visit the grand pilgrimage Basilica of Ta’ Pinu with its poignant votive offerings. Spend the rest of the day walking, swimming, and snorkeling amid the fantastical moonscape scenery of Dwejra.
Ta’ Cenc and Mgarr ix-Xini, set aside a full day if you can for walking around the soul-stirring cliff-top scenery of Ta’ Cenc. Seek out a lesser-known spot for swimming and snorkeling, such as nearby Mgarr ix-Xini, a lovely place for a leisurely lunch.
Comino and Ggantija Temples Visiting the tiny island of Comino from Gozo (easiest) or from Malta. Arrange a boat trip and spend an afternoon paddling around the Blue Lagoon. Begin day four with a visit to the extraordinary prehistoric Ggantija temples and other attractions of Xaghra. Spend the afternoon relaxing on Ramla Bay or the more remote San Blas Bay, both of which are beautiful beaches where red sands meet blue water.
- Ryanair flight FR7235 and Aer Lingus flight EI464 fly to Malta from Dublin four times weekly year round.
- Ryanair fly weekly from Belfast International year-round and Shannon in summer.
- Jet2 flies weekly from Belfast International in summer.
