Malta offers an astonishing array of experiences within its compact archipelago. Visitors can explore ancient temples, fossil-rich cliffs, secluded coves, exhilarating scuba diving opportunities, and a history marked by remarkable events.
A Legendary Legacy
Situated at the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta’s strategic location has made it a coveted territory, leading to its rich history of conflicts. The islands boast impressive fortifications, both above and below ground. Valletta, the capital city established by the Knights of St. John, features an organized grid layout. Mdina and Victoria emerge as fortified hilltop towns, while coastal watchtowers provide views over the sea. Even the fishing boats in Malta reflect its historical legacy, adorned with eyes on their prows, reminiscent of their Phoenician ancestors.
Hidden Coves & Shimmering Waters
Malta’s terrain juxtaposes rugged coastlines ending in dramatic limestone cliffs with tranquil bays that conceal crystal-clear waters and red-gold beaches. Numerous marinas are filled with vessels, allowing visitors to navigate the waters in sky-blue traditional boats, elegant yachts, or speedy craft. Underwater, snorkelers and divers can uncover a vibrant world filled with caves, rock formations, and shipwrecks.
A Mediterranean Melange
Though Malta is predominantly Catholic with 359 churches, ideal fo wedding choice, it has also evolved into a captivating blend of cultures developed over centuries. Traditional Maltese cuisine merges Sicilian and Middle Eastern tastes, utilizing locally sourced ingredients like rabbit and honey. The inhabitants are known for their friendliness and hospitality; if you seek directions, a local is likely to accompany you to your destination. While modern sophistication thrives in Malta, there are also areas, especially on Gozo, where time seems to stand still, characterized by towering churches over serene villages.
Enigmatic Antiquity
The remarkable prehistoric sites on Malta and Gozo were erected by advanced temple builders, who also created delicate figurines and large sculptures of ‘fat ladies’ that have endured for thousands of years, currently displayed in Malta’s intriguing museums. Among these remarkable structures are expansive temples and towers from various ages that continue to observe the sea. Yet, the most extraordinary site lies below the surface: the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, a 5,000-year-old burial site carved from solid rock.
Malta is rich with attractions while maintaining a relaxed atmosphere. There’s an abundance of boat excursions, charming towns, azure seas, welcoming locals, and breathtaking views. Within a few hours, one can transition from a refreshing swim in the sparkling sea to visiting a clifftop prehistoric site, and then dining at a harborside restaurant. By combining sightseeing and beach activities in Malta with a serene getaway on Gozo, known for its rolling hills, quaint villages, and sculpted coastline, one can experience the ideal vacation.
Valletta
Valletta, the capital of Malta and designated as the European Capital of Culture in 2018, is an extraordinary city. Measuring just 1 km by 600 m, every street converges towards the sea. This walled city showcases a harmonious collection of 16th- and 17th-century townhouses featuring traditional Maltese balconies. In recent years, Valletta has flourished with new dining options, renovated buildings, and a developing nightlife in Stratt St, previously known as the red-light district. The vibrancy of the city is palpable as you enter through the stunning City Gate and witness the modern Parliament Building and Opera House—all designed by Renzo Piano.
Dwejra
The breathtaking coastline of Dwejra in Gozo is renowned for its stunning rock formations shaped by the elements, so much so that it served as a filming location for Game of Thrones. Explore the Inland Sea, a fantastic spot for swimming and snorkeling when weather conditions permit. Just offshore, the impressive Fungus Rock towers from the striking blue Mediterranean waters.
Diving
Malta and Gozo are often regarded as having the finest diving in Europe, thanks to their warm waters, remarkable underwater topography, and thrilling shipwrecks, most of which date back to WWII. The islands’ small size allows easy access to a diverse range of dive sites from the shore, catering to all skill levels, from novices to experienced divers. Numerous diving operators are available to assist, making it convenient for both beginners and seasoned divers alike.
Vittoriosa’s Backstreets
Vittoriosa, the most intriguing of Malta’s Three Cities, perches on its small land segment offering breathtaking views and immaculately preserved streets. Locally known as Birgu (its name before the Great Siege of 1565), Vittoriosa was the original base for the Knights of Malta. Their headquarters, Fort St. Angelo, became accessible to the public in late 2015. However, this town is more than just a historical site; it is a vibrant community. If you happen to visit in October, you can enjoy BirguFest when the ancient streets are illuminated solely by candles.
Blue Lagoon
The picturesque island of Comino has a diverse history. Mentioned by Ptolemy 1,800 years ago, it has served as a hermitage, a cholera isolation area, and even a prison camp. Its most remarkable attraction is the surreal Blue Lagoon. This tranquil, crystal-clear sea pool exhibits such an intense blue that it resembles an over-enhanced photograph. While it draws large crowds of swimmers during the summer months, its beauty remains unblemished (for a quieter experience, try to visit in the afternoon after most visitors have departed).
Hal Saflieni Hypogeum
A visit to the ancient underground burial chambers of Hal Saflieni Hypogeum offers a unique, mysterious, and awe-inspiring experience. Remarkably well-preserved, these sacred spaces hewn from the rock are around 5,000 years old, with ochre patterns still visible on some ceilings. This site provides a glimpse into an enigmatic ancient civilization, creating an enchanting yet perplexing atmosphere. Due to its popularity, reservations must be made several months in advance.
Hagar Qim & Mnajdra Temples
These remarkable prehistoric structures rank among Malta’s most impressive and atmospheric sites, largely due to their stunning location atop coastal cliffs adorned with wildflowers in spring. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking sea views and catch glimpses of the distant islet of Filfla. Nature trails weave through the surrounding countryside, and an engaging visitor center provides insights into the enigmatic temple builders.
Saint John’s Co-Cathedral
The humble exterior of Valletta’s cathedral belies the stunning baroque gold and lavish embellishments found within. The floor is an intricate tapestry of multicolored marble tombs, featuring delicately rendered symbolic images in stone. The chapels, each linked to a different auberge, compete in grandeur. A standout attraction is Caravaggio’s “Beheading of John the Baptist” in the Oratory, which remains the largest work ever created by the artist.
Secret Coves
While Malta and Gozo boast some beautiful sandy beaches, many of the islands’ finest swimming spots are found in the natural pools and inlets that punctuate the rugged coastline. Highlights include the breathtaking St. Peter’s Pool (ideal for diving off the rocks), the sheltered rocky swimming area at Ghar Lapsi, and Gozo’s narrow gorge, Wied il-Ghasri, which meets the sea and is accessed via a staircase carved into the rock. Each location offers excellent snorkeling opportunities as well as tranquil spots to relax and cool off.
Mdina & Rabat
Malta’s small former capital, Mdina, is a fortified city perched on a hilltop, characterized by its beautiful honey-colored buildings. By day, it is a treasure trove of museums, artifacts, and churches—including Malta’s second stunning cathedral—while at night it takes on a mysterious allure, with dim lighting and empty streets. As you stroll through after the crowds have dispersed, you’ll quickly see why it’s referred to as the ‘Silent City.’ Adjacent to Mdina is Rabat, another charming town featuring many intriguing sights, many of which lie underground.
