Sunny Malta is a small archipelago in the central Mediterranean packed with history, sea views, and swoony architecture. Its three main islands, Malta, Gozo, and Comino, are all worth a visit, and a week in Malta will absolutely fly by.
Deeply intertwined with various civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and the Knights of St. John, one of our favorite parts about our visit to Malta was learning about its jaw-dropping history. Valletta, its capital city, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved Baroque architecture and lore related to the Knights of St. John, and the rest of the island boasts Megalithic-era temples, natural wonders, and a beautiful mix of architectures, languages, and cuisines, all accessible via day trips from Valletta.
Don’t let its small size fool you– Malta is a feast for history buffs. We’ll try not to go overboard in this section, but it’s just so cool!
On a more practical note, having a bit of a historical overview prior to your visit is a particularly good idea for Malta specifically, a place that’s been so shaped by historical events through the centuries.
Dating back to around 5900 BC, Malta is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world. The islands are home to impressive Megalithic-era temples, including Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, which were built between 3600 and 2500 BC and are some of the oldest freestanding structures in the world (and, stands to reason, also UNESCO World Heritage sites.) The medieval city of Mdina is also super well-preserved, and its narrow streets and historic buildings are a must-visit.
Phoenician settlers arrived around 800 BC and established trade routes all around the Mediterranean. Malta became part of the Carthaginian Empire, and later the Roman Republic in around 218 BC.
While certainly already “on the map”, Malta truly began to flourish under Roman rule– with notable architectural developments springing up all around the archipelago, such as Roman-style villas (which you can check out in Rabat at Domus Romana), Roman-style baths (which you can check out at the site of the ancient city of Melite, now Mdina), as well as defensive walls, aqueducts, and city-planning norms which also endure to this day.
After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Malta came under Byzantine control in the 6th century, and was then captured by Arab forces in 870 AD. This left a huge impact on the language and culture of Malta, and the Arabs retained control until 1091, when the Norman conquest led to Malta becoming part of the Kingdom of Sicily.
Here’s where the history of the Knights of St. John (also called the Knights Hospitaller) kicks in. A military order established during the Crusades, the Knights were “granted” Malta by the Pope in 1530 after they got kicked out of Rhodes by the Ottomans. They rapidly fortified the islands, founded the capital city of Valletta in 1566, and built St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Grand Master’s Palace, the Sacra Infermeria (Hospital of St. John), and various churches, palaces, and gardens.
The Knights also organized themselves into different langues (or national groups), with each having its own auberge (or inn). These auberges served as residences for the knights, administrative centers, and communal spaces. You can check out surviving auberges like the imposing Auberge de Castille in Valletta.
Recognizing the strategic importance of Malta, the Knights invested heavily in fortifications. They built a series of forts, bastions, and defensive walls to protect the island from potential invaders, including Fort St. Elmo, Fort St. Angelo, and Fort St. Michael. The Ottoman Empire laid siege to Malta in 1565, but was repelled by the Knights and 8,500 local Maltese. This event is crucial in Malta’s history and earned them the title “The Most Humble and Faithful City.” You can still see a lot of these fortifications today.
Napoleon Bonaparte (because of course he’s involved here somewhere!) captured Malta in 1798, ending the tenure of the Knights. The French rule was short-lived, however, as the Maltese rebelled and with British assistance drove the French out by 1800.
Malta became a British Crown Colony in 1814 and played a strategic role in British naval and military operations, particularly during World War II. During this time, Malta faced some of the most intense bombings of anywhere in the war and became a key battleground in the Mediterranean, preventing the Germans and Italians from having easy radio/radar access to North Africa and serving as the launch point for the invasion of Sicily.
The Maltese people endured severe hardships and suffered tremendously during this time, and the entire island was awarded the George Cross for their bravery post-war. [Note: For more on this, be sure to visit the Lascaris War Rooms in Valletta– more on that below.]
Malta finally gained independence from British rule in 1964, became a republic in 1974, and joined the European Union in 2004. The Maltese language, a unique blend of Semitic and Romance languages, is one of the most unique in the European Union, and the EU’s only Semitic language. In addition to English and Maltese, most locals also speak Italian.
Getting There & Staying There
Located near the village of Luqa, about 5 kilometers southwest of Valletta, the Malta International Airport is the only airport in Malta. It has a single passenger terminal and is very easy to navigate. Malta is well-connected to major cities in Europe through direct flights, particularly via airlines like Air Malta or other international carriers. We were lucky to take a direct flight with Air Malta from Amsterdam for only about 100€ each (booked in fall 2023.)
Once you arrive at Malta International Airport, you can use public transport or taxis to reach your destination on the island. The airport is well-connected to various parts of Malta, and taxis and buses are readily available. We took the 81 bus to the city center, a short walk from the airport.
Rather than our usual neighborhood round-up, in Malta the choice is more about which city or area you want to be based in.
We chose Valletta due to its central location and large number of Airbnbs and other lodging options. Being located in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage site is definitely not a bad thing! But depending on your preferences and budget, here are some other popular choices for where to stay in Malta:
- Valletta: Again, goes without saying that the capital city is a solid option (and what we chose as our “home base”.) Known for its Old Town, staying in Valletta provides immediate access to landmarks like St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Grand Master’s Palace, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens, as well as easy connections by car, bus, or ferry to everywhere else on this list.
- Sliema: Sliema is a bustling coastal town near Valletta offering a mix of modern hotels, boutique guesthouses, and waterfront apartments. The promenade along the seafront provides beautiful views of Valletta, and it’s also fairly easy to jump off to other areas from here.
- St. Julian’s and Paceville: A bit further north from Valletta and Sliema is St. Julian’s. Famous for its nightlife and entertainment district, Paceville, this is a popular choice for those who want easy access to bars, clubs, and restaurants. Hotels and all-inclusives in St. Julian’s are often pretty upscale, but there are budget-friendly ones to be found with advance planning.
- Mdina: Mdina, Malta’s swoony medieval walled city, offers a unique and tranquil experience. Staying within the historic walls is an excellent choice for a more secluded and cultural retreat, but it’s definitely not as convenient as other places.
- Gozo: If you’re looking for an even quieter and more rural experience, consider staying on Malta’s “sister island,” Gozo. Villages like Victoria (Rabat) and Xlendi offer a more relaxed atmosphere, and you can explore scenic landscapes, historic sites, and charming local markets. As it’s a separate island, it’s certainly not as convenient for visiting Malta’s highlights.
- Mellieha: Mellieha is known for its sandy beaches, including Golden Bay and Ghajn Tuffieha. It’s a family-friendly destination with a range of accommodation options, from beach resorts to guesthouses.
- Marsaxlokk: For a taste of traditional Maltese fishing village life, Marsaxlokk is a picturesque option. The colorful fishing boats and seafood restaurants are quaint, though it’s definitely a bit further out. We personally wouldn’t have opted to stay here (as it’s more of a day trip destination.)
Recommended Reading
When to Visit
Truly, there is no wrong time of year to visit Malta. This is a big reason why we chose it as our 2024 “work-cation” – our yearly January escape from our dark and rainy home base in Amsterdam in search of some winter sunshine.
(For other inspo, see 2022’s trip to Andalucía and 2023’s Athens and Greek Island getaway!)
In general, the average annual rainfall is relatively low in Malta due to its Mediterranean climate. The majority of the rainfall occurs during the winter (November to February), with occasional showers and storms, though these don’t seem to really affect travel plans.
We had pure, glorious sunlight for the entirety of our stay, and only needed a light jacket. During the summer months, Malta experiences a dry season with minimal rainfall– one reason why it’s so popular to visit, but gets borderline-infernally hot.
There are a few minor pros/cons to different seasons, but really the “best time” to visit depends on your preferences and the type of activities you enjoy. That said, here’s a few things to consider:
- Spring | 60-70°F (15-21°C): Mild temperatures and blooms, ideal for exploring historical sites without the summer crowds, perfect for outdoor activities and hiking. Higher possibility of rainfall, though still not frequent.
- Summer | 75-90°F (24-32°C): Sun-soaked beaches and crystal-clear waters, vibrant nightlife, festivals, and events, but ultra-crowded and ultra-hot (especially in August.)
- Autumn | 65-75°F (18-24°C): Pleasant temperatures and still-warm seas, harvest festivals and cultural events, and much quieter than summer, but some attractions and transportation options may reduce operating hours– be sure to check these in advance!
- Winter | 50-60°F (10-15°C): Mild temperatures compared to other parts of Europe with more sunshine, festive holiday atmosphere with Christmas markets, lower accommodation prices, but shorter days, cooler evenings, and more closures.
We visited Malta in winter (late January to early February) and had an absolutely marvelous time. The city didn’t feel cramped, we were comfortable in a light jacket, and there’s several more hours of sunlight per day than in northern Europe.
The Perfect Week in Malta
Malta is quite packed with things to do for such a small place! Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, lounging on beaches, or immersing yourself in local lore, Malta is a great choice for a week away.
We’ve split the itinerary into 6 day trips (plus a fun bonus!) that you can take on in any order.
Day Trip 1: Valletta
Note: we recommend 2+ days in Valletta!
Valletta, Malta’s capital, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Definitely be sure to do Valletta justice and don’t cram it all into 1 day if you have more time available. Though, never fear… If you only have 1 day, it’s certainly doable.
Since we were also working remotely during our stay, we would do little pockets of Valletta in combination with other places or during lunch breaks. The city is ultra-walkable and easy to explore, and we enjoyed staying here because it’s so easy to continue to visit what we wanted to see in combination with other places.
Here’s what you can’t miss in Valletta:
- St. John’s Co-Cathedral: Explore the opulent St. John’s Co-Cathedral, known for its Baroque interior, Caravaggio paintings, and intricate marble work.
- Grand Master’s Palace: Visit the Grand Master’s Palace, which houses the Office of the President of Malta. You can visit the State Rooms and the Palace Armory, which has potentially the biggest collection of weapons and armor we’ve ever seen (Alex was in heaven!) We thought the admission price was a bit steep for this, to be honest, as the area open to visitors was smaller than we would’ve expected.
- Upper Barrakka Gardens: Enjoy panoramic views of the Grand Harbour from the Upper Barrakka Gardens, free and open to the public.
- Lower Barrakka Gardens: Wander through the Lower Barrakka Gardens and take in the views of the Valletta waterfront and the Three Cities, also free.
- Valletta Waterfront: Stroll along the Valletta Waterfront, lined with restaurants and shops in renovated 18th-century warehouses.
- Fort St. Elmo: Walk around Fort St. Elmo, a historic fort with a museum detailing Malta’s military history and the National War Museum, showcasing Malta’s role in World War I and II.
- Lascaris War Rooms: Don’t miss the Lascaris War Rooms, an underground complex of tunnels and small rooms used by the British and the Americans during World War II for military strategy and island defense. This is an absolute must-see– if you only pay for 1 admission in Valletta, make it this one. We unfortunately didn’t learn as much in school as we would’ve liked about the Maltese war experience, and it’s truly astounding. The War Rooms are like a time capsule, still displaying the maps, radios, signal boards, and office spaces from the war.
- Merchant Street Market: Stroll through Merchant Street and explore its market, offering a variety of local goods and souvenirs. The most convenient large grocery store is located here.
- Auberge de Castille: Admire Auberge de Castille, one of the Knights’ auberges, which now serves as the office of the Prime Minister.
- Casa Rocca Piccola: Visit Casa Rocca Piccola, a 16th-century palace with guided tours, showcasing a blend of Maltese and Italian styles.
- Manoel Theatre: Attend a performance (though these are a bit rare) or take a guided tour of the historic Manoel Theatre, one of Europe’s oldest working theaters.
- Republic Street (Triq ir-Repubblika): Walk down Republic Street, Valletta’s main thoroughfare, lined with shops, cafes, and historical buildings.
- The Siege Bell War Memorial: Visit the Siege Bell War Memorial, commemorating the lives lost during the Siege of Malta in World War II.
- National Museum of Archaeology: Delve into Malta’s prehistoric past at the National Museum of Archaeology, featuring artifacts from the island’s ancient temples.
Day Trip 2: Mdina
Mdina is a super well-preserved medieval town with narrow streets, historic architecture, and a rich history. Usually the top-recommended day trip from Valletta, we agree that it’s a must-see! The city is surrounded by high defensive walls and boasts impressive gates, including its main entrance at Vilhena Gate, and served as Malta’s capital until the arrival of the Knights of St. John in the 16th century, when they moved the capital to Valletta.
Game of Thrones fans will recognize Mdina as the primary filming location for King’s Landing in the show’s first season– with the entrance gate to the city being the most recognizable feature. Scenes featuring King Robert Baratheon’s arrival and Ned Stark’s investigation were shot within Mdina’s walls. Fort Ricasoli (which is located near Valletta) was used to film the gate of the Red Keep.
We had read that Mdina is often referred to as the “Silent City” due to restricted car access. TBH, we didn’t really find this to be that case… we felt like we were constantly jumping out of the way of cars and horse-drawn carriages driving way too fast on ultra-narrow streets with no sidewalks. We were looking forward to something a bit more quiet than it ended up being, and imagine it must be even more stressful in the summer. Just a note to perhaps adjust expectations a little 😉
Getting there from Valletta:
The most cost-effective way to travel from Valletta to Mdina is by bus. Bus routes 51, 52, 53, and 201 operate between Valletta and Mdina, starting and ending at the terminus in each city. The bus journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes.
We hopped back on the 201 line and went over to the Dingli Cliffs after we finished up in Mdina for a nice little walk and views of the sea, which is nice if you have the time but not a must-see.
Here’s what you can’t miss in Mdina:
- St. Paul’s Cathedral: Visit St. Paul’s Cathedral, a Baroque masterpiece known for its intricate marble work, sculptures, and paintings. You can also check out the Mdina Cathedral Museum, located within the cathedral, showcasing religious artifacts and historical exhibits.
- Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum: Visit Palazzo Falson, a medieval palace turned museum, displaying art, antiques, and artifacts from different eras.
- Bastion Square (Pjazza Mesquita): Relax at Bastion Square, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
- Mdina Dungeons: Descend into the Mdina Dungeons for an interactive experience exploring the dark and mysterious history of the city. (Seems like a tourist trap, we skipped this.)
- Vilhena Palace (National Museum of Natural History): Explore Vilhena Palace, housing the National Museum of Natural History, with exhibits on Malta’s flora and fauna. The Palazzo is also home to the National Museum of Ethnography, showcasing Malta’s cultural heritage.
- St. Agatha’s Crypt and Catacombs: Visit St. Agatha’s Crypt and Catacombs, an underground complex featuring early Christian catacombs and a crypt.
- (Nearby) St. Paul’s Grotto: St. Paul’s Grotto is traditionally believed to be the place where St. Paul took refuge during his time in Malta.
- Mdina Glass: Mdina Glass is a workshop and gallery where you can witness the creation of traditional Maltese glassware.
- Fontanella Tea Garden: Relax at Fontanella Tea Garden, known for its stunning views, delicious cakes, and refreshing drinks. This was one of the only places open when we visited in winter.
- St. Nicholas Collegiate Church: Visit St. Nicholas Collegiate Church, a medieval church with beautiful frescoes and architecture.
- On the other side of Howard Gardens outside the city gates, there’s a place called Is-Serkin, where we tried yummy local pastizzi for 80c each. It’s definitely a “local’s place”, complete with jostling in the blob-shaped “line” and shouting your order to the cashier, but the pastizzi were delicious.
Note: We read in many places online that this was a full day trip from Valletta, but we felt like we covered everything extensively (including our “pastizzi break”) in 2-3 hours.
Day Trip 3: Sliema + St. Julian's
Sliema and St. Julian’s are fun towns along the northeastern coast of Malta, offering a mix of entertainment, shopping, dining, and beautiful sea views. Both are close to Valletta, and can be easily combined for a day trip or tacked on to other things you’re up to in Valletta.
We got off the bus in St. George’s Bay (St. Julian’s) and walked along the coast all the way down to the Sliema Ferry stop, which was a lovely way to spend a few hours.
Getting to Sliema from Valletta:
The main ferry operator connecting Valletta to Sliema is Valletta Ferry Services. You’ll see big red signs with summer/winter schedules posted. Ferries typically run throughout the day, with frequent departures (every half-hour or so max), and the journey takes less than 10 minutes.
The ferry will arrive at the Sliema Ferries terminal, which is located near the Sliema promenade. You can buy your ticket onboard, 2024 prices were about 4€ for a round-trip ticket.
Getting from Sliema to St. Julian’s:
The most common and cost-effective way to travel between Sliema and St. Julian’s is by bus. Bus routes 13, 14, and 16 operate between Sliema and St. Julian’s. In Sliema, you can catch the bus from various stops along the Sliema Ferries area or along the Sliema promenade.
In St. Julian’s, the buses stop at various locations, including Spinola Bay and Balluta Bay. The journey from Sliema to St. Julian’s takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
If you’re wanting to stretch your legs… Sliema and St. Julian’s are neighboring towns, and you can enjoy a pleasant walk along the waterfront promenade to reach St. Julian’s, which takes about the same amount of time as the bus, which is what we did.
Getting from St. Julian’s back to Valletta:
If you’re keen to keep walking, it’s about an hour’s walk back to Valletta, or you can walk back to Sliema and take the ferry back to Valletta. Alternatively, bus routes 13, 14, and 16 operate between St. Julian’s and Valletta, with a terminus at the Valletta Bus Terminal. The bus journey from St. Julian’s to Valletta takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
Here’s what you can’t miss in Sliema and St. Julian’s:
- Sliema:
- Promenade Walk: Take a leisurely stroll along the Sliema Promenade, offering beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea and Valletta.
- Shopping in Tigné Point: Explore Tigné Point, a shopping complex with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes and walk over to Fort Tigné, a historic fortress that now houses a shopping center and offers panoramic views of the harbor. This was the last fort built by the Knights.
- Swim at Exiles Beach: Enjoy a swim at Exiles Beach, a popular spot with clear waters and a sandy shoreline.
- Manoel Island Yacht Marina: Explore Manoel Island Yacht Marina, a picturesque marina with views of Valletta.
- Bonus: Sliema Arts Festival– If visiting in summer, check for events like the Sliema Arts Festival, featuring cultural performances, art exhibitions, and more.
- St. Julian’s:
- Spinola Bay: Explore Spinola Bay, a charming harbor with colorful boats, waterside cafes, and a relaxed ambiance. Check out Spinola Palace, a historic building overlooking the bay, now serving as the residence of the Maltese Prime Minister.
- St. George’s Bay: Relax at St. George’s Bay, a popular beach with facilities for water sports and beachside activities.
- Balluta Bay: Visit Balluta Bay, another picturesque bay with a historic church, seaside cafes, and a beautiful promenade.
- Out on the town in Paceville: Experience the vibrant nightlife in Paceville, known for its bars, clubs, and entertainment.
- Portomaso Marina: Explore Portomaso Marina, a luxury marina surrounded by restaurants, bars, and high-end residences.
- Love Monument: Discover the Love Monument, an art installation near Spinola Bay featuring love locks and scenic views.
- Visit the Parish Church of St. Julian’s: Explore the Parish Church of St. Julian’s, dedicated to the town’s patron saint.
Day Trip 4: Marsaxlokk
Marsaxlokk was also a top-rated recommendation online– a charming fishing village known for its colorful fishing boats and fresh seafood. If you just want to visit the town, you only need 2-3 hours including lunch. However, there are several options to extend your time here to a full day via boat trips, hikes, or short car rides (if you have a car.)
Truthfully, Marsaxlokk was our least favorite thing that we did on our trip to Malta. We had read online to try to time our visit for Sunday, as that’s when there’s a “local market.” We did this, and we regret it. The town was absolutely packed, the bus ride was really unpleasant, and the market was not local at all. There were a handful of vegetable stalls and a few options for cannoli, fig tarts, or other desserts, but it was overwhelmingly stalls selling pirated video games, poor-quality imitation designer goods, and batteries, shampoo, and other cheap home goods. Sadly, there was nothing local about it and it was so packed you could barely walk. Perhaps better to skip the Sunday visit and go another day.
Getting there from Valletta:
Again, the most cost-effective way to travel from Valletta to Marsaxlokk is by bus. Bus route 81 operates between Valletta and Marsaxlokk, starting and ending at the terminus in each city. The bus journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes and was absolutely positively packed, even in the winter. Go as early as you can.
Here’s what you can’t miss in Marsaxlokk:
- Marsaxlokk Fishing Market: Visit the Marsaxlokk Fishing Market, held daily along the waterfront. Explore the stalls selling fresh fish, seafood, and local produce. Apart from the daily fish market, Marsaxlokk hosts a Sunday Market where you can find a variety of goods, including crafts, clothing, and souvenirs– so try to visit on a Sunday if you can!
- Marsaxlokk Waterfront: Stroll along the picturesque Marsaxlokk Waterfront and admire the traditional Maltese Luzzu boats with their vibrant colors and “evil eye” motifs. You can take a boat ride on a luzzu for around 5€.
- St. Peter’s Pool: Enjoy a swim or relax by the crystal-clear waters of St. Peter’s Pool, a natural swimming pool surrounded by limestone rocks– most boat rides visit here.
- Marsaxlokk Parish Church: Visit the Parish Church of Marsaxlokk, dedicated to Our Lady of Pompeii, and admire its beautiful architecture.
- Delimara Lighthouse: Take a drive or hike to the Delimara Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline and the Mediterranean Sea.
While in Marsaxlokk, be sure to enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many seafood restaurants along the waterfront. Try local dishes like lampuki (dorado) and fenkata (rabbit stew). We had a great seafood platter at Roots restaurant for around 30€– it was huge and packed with clams, mussels, calamari, octopus, jumbo shrimp (not deveined unfortunately), and anchovies.
As mentioned above, there are also a few things to do with the other half of your day if you’d like.
- You can take a boat trip or cruise from Marsaxlokk to explore the coastline and nearby attractions, such as the ultra-famous Blue Grotto.
- You can relax on the beaches near Marsaxlokk, such as Pretty Bay in nearby Birzebbuga or St. Thomas Bay, or enjoy some water activities such as snorkeling, swimming, or even renting a boat
- You can check out historical sites in nearby areas, including the Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples and the Dingli Cliffs.
Day Trip 5: The Three Cities
The Three Cities, consisting of Vittoriosa (Birgu), Senglea (Isla), and Cospicua (Bormla), are historic areas in Malta with rich maritime and military heritage. Just a stone’s throw from Valletta and accessible via a quick ferry ride, you can walk between the 3 easily. We loved exploring this area– it’s so quaint and quiet, and has beautiful views of the sea, Valletta, and other surrounding areas. Definitely underrated!
Getting there from Valletta:
It’s super easy– you just need to get across the Grand Harbour!
- Head to the Valletta Waterfront, located on the southern side of Valletta, in the lower part of the city.
- Choose your ferry operator: as of our early-2024 visit, there seem to be two main ferry operators that connect Valletta to the Three Cities, Valletta Ferry Services and Malta Water Taxis.
- Pay your round-trip fare (should be about 4€ and you can pay on board), and disembark at the designated terminal in Vittoriosa (Birgu).
Here’s what you can’t miss in the Three Cities:
Vittoriosa (Birgu):
- Fort St. Angelo: Explore Fort St. Angelo, a medieval fortress with a strategic location overlooking the Grand Harbour. It has a long history, including the Great Siege of Malta in 1565. The Malta at War Museum offers an in-depth look at Malta’s wartime experiences.
- Vittoriosa Maritime Museum: Explore the Vittoriosa Maritime Museum, showcasing Malta’s maritime history.
- Birgu Waterfront: Stroll along the Birgu Waterfront, lined with cafes and restaurants offering picturesque views of the harbor. The nearby Marina is home to luxury yachts and surrounded by historical buildings.
- St. Lawrence’s Church: Visit St. Lawrence’s Church, a Baroque masterpiece with a stunning interior and a historic connection to the Knights of St. John.
- Inquisitor’s Palace: Discover the Inquisitor’s Palace, a unique museum showcasing the history of the Inquisition in Malta. (We skipped this, a bit too grim for us.)
- Birgu Market: Explore the Birgu Market, called the Is-Suq Tal-Belt. Here, you can find local produce, crafts, and traditional Maltese products. We much preferred this to the Marsaxlokk market!
Senglea (Isla):
- Senglea Waterfront: Walk along the Senglea Waterfront, enjoying views of Valletta and the Grand Harbour.
- Senglea Gardens: Relax in the Senglea Gardens, offering a peaceful escape with greenery and benches. You can also check out St. Philip’s Garden, a small public garden with a charming atmosphere.
- Senglea Point: Visit Senglea Point for panoramic views of the harbor, Valletta, and the Three Cities.
- Senglea Basilica (St. Julian’s Church): Visit the Senglea Basilica, also known as St. Julian’s Church, featuring Baroque architecture and beautiful paintings.
Cospicua (Bormla):
- Cospicua Waterfront: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Cospicua Waterfront, offering views of the historic buildings and the harbor.
- Church of the Immaculate Conception: Visit the Church of the Immaculate Conception, known for its beautiful dome and artistic decorations, and check out the Cospicua Parish Museum in the Sacristy.
- St. Helen’s Gate (Couvre Porte): Explore St. Helen’s Gate, an ornate entrance to Cospicua with a baroque design.
Day Trip 6: Gozo Island
Gozo, Malta’s sister island, is known for its idyllic landscapes, outdoor activities, and historic sites, which is a good way to split up what to do there.
Nearby Comino is likely best-known for the world-famous Blue Lagoon, which is a reason in-and-of-itself to visit, but when we asked locals which they recommended, they told us that Comino is really more of a summer destination for swimming and beach time, while Gozo is bigger and more developed, and thus more of a year-round destination. We opted to skip Comino on this trip, but if you visit in swimming season be sure to check it out.
Getting to Gozo from Valletta:
Getting from Valletta to Gozo can be done by land + ferry or by fast ferry. The “long way”: first take a bus from Valletta to the Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal (located on the northern tip of Malta) via bus routes 41, 42, 44, and 101. From there, board the ferry from Cirkewwa to Mgarr, Gozo. The bus journey from Valletta to Cirkewwa takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, and then the ferry takes 20-30 minutes.
Never fear… you can also take the Gozo Fast Ferry, which gets from Valletta to Gozo in 45 minutes and departs on the hour.
Here’s what to check out in Gozo:
- Historical/Cultural sites:
- Ggantija Temples: Explore the Ggantija Temples, one of the oldest megalithic structures in the world, dating back to around 3600 BC.
- Victoria (Rabat): Visit the Citadel in Victoria, also known as Rabat, to explore medieval fortifications, the Cathedral of the Assumption, and the Old Prison. Visit the Victoria Market, also known as It-Tokk, for local produce, crafts, and traditional Maltese items.
- Nadur: known for its scenic landscapes, traditional architecture, and the Ta’ Kenuna Tower.
- Gharb: Discover the village of Gharb and visit the Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary and the Folklore Museum. The Ta’ Pinu Basilica is a gorgeous national shrine in a serene setting.
- Marsalforn: Relax in the seaside village of Marsalforn, known for its beaches, seafood restaurants, and vibrant atmosphere.
- Xaghra: Visit the charming village of Xaghra and explore the Grotto of Calypso and the Xerri’s Grotto.
- Natural landscapes:
- Ramla Bay: Relax on the red sandy beach of Ramla Bay, known for its vibrant color and clear waters.
- Xlendi Bay: Enjoy the picturesque Xlendi Bay, a charming fishing village with cliffs and crystal-clear waters.
- Dwejra Nature Reserve: Explore the Dwejra Nature Reserve, home to unique rock formations, sea caves, and the Blue Hole for snorkeling. You can also see the (sadly, now-collapsed) Azure Window and the Inland Sea at Dwejra Bay, as well as surrounding geological formations.
- Tal-Mixta Cave: Discover the Tal-Mixta Cave, a hidden gem with stunning coastal views.
- Outdoor activities:
- Hiking and Walking Trails: Explore Gozo’s countryside with various hiking and walking trails, including the coastal path from Marsalforn to Qbajjar.
- Cycling: Rent a bicycle and explore Gozo’s scenic landscapes and picturesque villages.
While in Gozo, be sure to check out local Gozitan cuisine, including ftira (traditional bread), fresh seafood, and local specialties like Gozitan cheese and pastries.
Bonus: Popeye's Village
One of Malta’s more whimsical attractions, Popeye’s Village is nevertheless quite a treat if you can swing it. We weren’t able to make it there, but still figured we’d mention it if readers are keen.
Also known as Sweethaven Village, Popeye Village is located in Anchor Bay, on the northwestern coast of Malta, near the town of Mellieha. The village was originally constructed as a film set for the 1980 musical film “Popeye” starring Robin Williams in the title role. The set was built as a quaint and whimsical village to represent Sweethaven, the fictional hometown of Popeye the Sailor.
The village retains its original film set charm, with colorful wooden structures, narrow streets, and quirky buildings. You can visit Popeye’s House, which (as the name suggests) served as the home of Popeye in the movie. The interior is decorated in a jaunty nautical theme. The Popeye Village also has a small museum that provides insights into the making of the film, showcasing memorabilia, behind-the-scenes photos, and details about the actors.
You can also take a boat ride around Anchor Bay, offering the best views of the film set from the water and a great photo op, as well as enjoy live shows and performances by actors portraying characters from the Popeye cartoon.
We hope you enjoyed this guide to Malta. Don’t miss our guides to a weekend in Valletta and great day trips from Valletta!
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