Malta is an archipelago situated in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea. It is a small and charming island with an area of 316 square kilometers. Surrounded by azure seas and clear blue skies it neighbours Italy and North Africa. The official spoken language is Maltese. This language is a mix of Arabic and Italian.
The sun shines for around 300 days in a year which makes Malta’s weather ideal in spring and autumn. The summer months are hot with mild winters.
Malta has a interesting cultural heritage. Natural attractions which you can experience and historical sights to visit. Filled to the brim with history and amazing things to do. Discover underwater caves, visit museums, explore amazing temples and medieval architecture. The streets around the island take you through towns and villages. You can go on fishing trips, boat tours, snorkeling and diving experiences. Or relax at cafes and restaurants.
There exist a range of options to get around Malta. You can hire a car, make use of buses, use hop on/off bus service or get a ride with Bolt or Uber. Car hire is popular as its cheap and useful. Malta has an extensive network of buses though these run on schedule. Malta’s hop on/off bus services runs through the entire island. It stops at historical sites and places of interest. In recent years ride sharing and taxi service apps have grown in popularity. You can get a taxi ride for a reasonable price.
Explore the Capital City, Valletta
The fortified city is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Surrounded by two harbors: the Grand Harbor and Marsamxett Harbor. Explore its charming narrow streets and stone alleys. View its architecture, cultural and historic monuments. Enjoy its eateries and bars. Take a stroll throughout the city. Watch out for the traditional colorful enclosed balconies.
Malta’s Capital City was constructed by the Order of the Knights of St. John. Built during the 16th Century it still emits an aristocratic aura. The city is testimony to the splendor and glory of the Knights. It is a affirmation to their logical urban planning. An aerial view shows the city as a regular grid with orderly public squares.
Incredible vistas from Upper Barrakka Gardens
The Upper Barrakka Gardens sit on the highest point in Valletta. Stroll around these charming gardens and absorb the stunning scenery. From this viewpoint you can take in panoramic views of Malta’s Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. Located right below the gardens is the Saluting Battery. At noon the cannons fire the traditional salute. In the past, the firing of the cannons was to hail visiting naval vessels.
Take a Trip the Lascaris War Rooms
The Lascaris War Rooms are underground tunnels and bunkers. Situated in the Upper Barrakka Gardens at 45 meters below ground. During the Knights of St. John occupation these bunkers were slave quarters. The British extended the existing tunnels during World War II. They utilized its chambers as strategic command post.
Discover Casa Rocca Piccola
A splendid palace to discover in Valletta is Casa Rocca Piccola. This was home to the De Piro noble family. Today, the palace is a museum. With a large historical collection of aristocratic life. The museum is home to a collection of furniture, antiques, art, silver pieces and costumes.
Appreciate St. John’s Co-Cathedral
Located in the heart of Valletta. Its Baroque facade is considered to be architecturally plain. Yet its interior is one of the most lavish and impressive in all Europe. The Cathedral was constructed by the Order of the Knights of St. John. Its remarkable details are the gilded decor and the marble tombstone floor. It has 400 monuments meant to honor the Knights. The eye-catching interior is adorned with decorative frescoes. These feature key scenes from the Bible. The Cathedral possesses two majestic paintings by Caravaggio.
Stop by the Auberge de Castille
Situated next to the Upper Barrakka Gardens. At present it is the office of the Prime Minister. It has a spectacular facade. Considered to be one of the finest architectural Baroque works on the island. In the evening, the facade is fully illuminated making it one of the most amazing sights in Valletta.
Tour the Grandmaster’s Palace
The Grandmaster’s Palace is close by to St. John’s Cathedral. It is a mix of the Late Renaissance and Baroque styles. This day it is the office of Malta’s President. Yet, parts of the palace are open to public. You can tour several State Rooms and admire its splendid paintings. As well as take a tour of the Palace Armoury.
Watch a Show at Manoel Theatre
Built during the occupation of the Order of the Knights of St. John. Observe its exquisite interior made up of gilt decorations. You can attend a music concert, opera shows or ballet recitals here.
Visit Malta’s National Museum of Art
This is situated in Auberge d’Italie building. On display you will see a collection of art by local and international artists. The collection features four main exhibitions with artworks from different periods.
Explore the National Museum of Archeology
The Auberge de Provence is now home to Malta’s National Museum of Archeology. The building its an attraction in its own merits. Take a look at the Gran Salon, a unique painted hall with a beautiful ceiling.
You will find exhibits which showcase prehistoric and early history artifacts. These date back to the Neolithic Period, the Phoenician Period and Bronze Age.
Walk or Dine at the Valletta Waterfront
In times gone by, Pinto Wharf’s warehouses stored all types of cargo. Which was necessary for the Maltese islands. Today, the area has been restored and became to be known as the Valletta Waterfront. The restored warehouses now house eateries, bars and souvenir shops along the promenade.
Take a Trip to the Old Capital City, Mdina
Do not miss Malta’s beautiful medieval capital city, Mdina. Referred to as the Silent City. The city is situated on a hilltop in the center of the island. It is surrounded by impressive fortifications. Wander around the picturesque cobbled alleys. Linger around its squares and marvel at its architecture. Around the city you will see tall limestone buildings, aristocratic palaces and few quaint shops.
Appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, relax and enjoy its restaurants and coffee shops. The small city is full of history, places to visit and scenic views.
To enter the ancient city you must go through the Main Gate. Its charming cobbled roads are pedestrian zones. You need to get special permission to enter the city by car.
One of its popular attractions is the magnificent Baroque Cathedral of St. Paul’s. Its grand interior features a glorious dome, marble columns and spectacular ceiling paintings. The Cathedral is home to works of art painted by the famous Maltese artist, Mattia Preti.
Visit Palazzo Vilhena and admire its Parisian Baroque architecture. In the past, this palazzo was the Magisterial Palace. Today it is the National Museum of Natural History. The museum showcases fossils, birds, insects, exotic mammals, rocks and minerals.
Tour an authentic medieval palace this being Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum. This palazzo has been restored to its original style. On display you will see works of art, antiques, oriental carpets and a collection of old coins.
Sought-after sights to visit include the Mdina underground dungeons and the Mdina Experience.
Walk around the Three Cities
Senglea, Cospicua and Vittoriosa are known as the ‘Three Cities’. These adjacent cities are located right across the Grand Harbour from Valletta. Surrounded by fortifications which in the past formed Malta’s wall of defense. Walk around the narrow streets and along their beautiful waterfront promenades. Take in the stunning panoramas.
Vittoriosa’s highlights are the Church of St. Lawrence, the Malta War Museum and the imposing solid limestone Fort St. Angelo. Fort St. Angelo was the first base of the Knights of St. John. It played a critical role in the Great Siege which took place 1565. It later became the Royal Navy’s Mediterranean headquarters. After recent restoration the Fort opened as a visitor attraction. During your visit you can experience its history. As well as it provides educational programs and cultural events. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque scenery of the Grand Harbour. Besides the neighbouring fortified cities.
Senglea’s highlight is the Gardjola Gardens. They offer a bird’s-eye view of Valletta, Marsa, the Grand Harbour and Vittoriosa. First built in 1551 and restored in recent years. Stroll through the gardens. Sit down in the calm, peaceful environment and enjoy the panorama.
Discover Malta’s Towns
Stop at Mosta
Take a trip to Mosta to view its Church and its renowned Dome. This is the largest church on the Maltese islands. The church has third greatest unsupported dome in the world. In 2018, Pope Francis proclaimed the church a minor basilica.
The Neo – Classical church is dedicated to St. Mary and its remarkable dome measures 121 feet wide and 220 feet high. The church has a lavish gilt decorated interior and marble floors. The dome’s design is based on the Pantheon in Rome. The church is home to a grand pipe organ of 2,000 pipes.
For a fee you can visit the dome itself then for an extra fee you can access the dome viewpoint.
Take a Trip to Rabat
Rabat is a town situated right outside of Mdina with remarkable historical sights.
One such concealed gem is the Casa Bernard. This 16th century majestic house is open to the public for guided tours. The house has a luxurious interior. This includes antique furniture, masterpieces of painting and impressive works of art.
An another impressive sight is the Domvs Romana Museum. Built on the site of the ruins of a Roman aristocratic townhouse. You can get a glimpse of the lifestyle of a Roman aristocratic family. The museum contains intricate 1st century BC Roman mosaics. There are exhibits which showcase artifacts found on site. Besides other Roman antiques excavated throughout the island.
A beautiful building to visit is the while in Rabat is the Parish Church of St. Paul’s. Situated below the Church is the notable St. Paul’s Grotto. It is said that this is the place where Saint Paul sought refuge while in Malta.
While in Rabat, it is a must to visit the amazing St. Paul’s Catacombs. This underground burial site is key landmark as it is home to the largest collection in Malta. Some of the catacombs are small but there are larger ones. Some of the areas still have bones in them!
Whilst in Rabat take a break and relax at one of its several charming restaurants and cafes.
Villages to Explore in Malta
Tour the Villages of Siġġiewi and Żebbuġ
Both villages are an example of the Maltese traditional villages. These neighbouring villages are situated in southwestern Malta.
Situated at the village center of Siġġiewi is the Parish Church of Saint Nicholas. This church has a magnificent Baroque facade. On the feast days the church is illuminated with multicolored lights.
During the summer, the Limestone Heritage Park organizes traditional Maltese folklore night events. This event displays the Maltese culture with folkloric dance and music performances. During the function you can enjoy a buffet which features sumptuous Maltese dishes.
This rural village goes way back to 1436. It was Grand Master de Rohan who bestowed the title of Città Rohan. To commemorate this event the people of ‘Żebbuġ’ constructed the triumphal arch. Situated at the entrance to their hometown. The twin-towered Baroque Church dedicated to Saint Philip is in the village’s square.
Discover the Seaside Village of Mellieħa
The charming village of Mellieħa stands on a hilltop. Surrounded by rural landscapes and overlooks Mellieħa bay. Located in the village’s main square is the Baroque Church of Our Lady of Victory. From the parish square a flight of stairs takes you down to a cave-shrine dedicated to Holy Mary. Walk around the winding narrow streets to experience the laid-back and relaxed lifestyle.
Mellieħa bay is a family-friendly beach. It is the beach which has the largest sandy shore in Malta. It’s shallow enough to stand up even quite far away from the beach.
Mellieħa also houses a lovely bird sanctuary known as Għadira Nature Reserve.
Take a Trip to Marsaxlokk
Marsaxlokk is a charming fishing village in the south of Malta. There is plenty of fish restaurants along its shoreline. Bobbing colorful fishing boats dot its harbour. These boats known in Maltese as ‘luzzu’ have a charm of their own. They come in a range of different colours and styles. Paint on the prow is a glaring eye. According to tradition this helps protect against evil spirits.
The restaurants provide outdoor seating with scenic harbour vistas. Since Marsaxlokk is a fishing village you will get to dine on a selection of delicious seafood.
Held every Sunday is an open-air fish market which sells the morning catch. Alongside the fish market there are other market stalls. These sell selling special handicrafts, foods and souvenirs.
The Maltese islands have several other villages worth your visit. These include Żurrieq, Mqabba, Qrendi, Ħal Lija, Mġarr in Malta and Għajnsielem, Għasri, San Lawrenz, Xgħajra and Għarb in Gozo.
Day Trips to take while in Malta
Visit Malta’s sister Island, Gozo
The island of Gozo is a blissful destination which makes part of the Archipelago of Malta. Explore the island’s beauty. From its quite villages to its cliffs, forts, temples and lovely beaches.
Gozo is jam-packed with amazing historic landmarks and outstanding scenery. Gozo’s most prominent historical sights are the Ġgantija Temples, the fortified medieval city of Ċittadella and Ta’ Pinu National Shrine. Its sought after beaches are Ramla Bay, Dwerja Bay and Ħondoq ir-Rummien Bay. Check out the lively and vibrant seaside villages of Xlendi and Marsalforn.
Enjoy Gozo’s the laid-back lifestyle and discover the island’s lovely countryside. Walk along the Gozo’s valleys and climb its hills.
You can reach this beautiful island either by ferry from Cirkewwa. Or by fast ferry service from Valletta.
Explore Comino
Comino is an idyllic island perched off the coast between Malta and Gozo. Uninhabited and surrounded by clear luminous blue waters.
It is home to the breathtaking and famous Blue Lagoon. A naturally-formed swimming bay nestled between rocky hillsides. This beach is well known for its crystal-clear turquoise sea over a white-sand seabed. It is a top spot to swim and snorkel. This bay is equipped with the necessary facilities.
Comino is a prominent scuba diving destination. Especially if you like reef and underwater cave diving. It has a bountiful marine life with range of colorful fish, octopus and barracuda.
Other outdoor things to do on this little island are nature walks and hikes. You can also go on a boat tour of the Santa Marija Caves.
Historical Sites to visit in Malta
Discover the Tarxien Temples
This stunning complex was discovered by farmers. Excavation works started in 1914. The whole site covers an area of 5,400 square meters. The Tarxien Temples are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the largest and best-conserved prehistoric area in Malta.
This temple complex consists of four megalithic structures. Built somewhere along 3,300-2,400 BC. These limestone structures are separate yet attached structures. Dedicated to the goddess of fertility. Carved on stone walls you will see intricate spiral patterns and images of animals. Also, each temple has several ornate altars.
The south temple holds the largest collection of art. The depictions on walls include include goats, pigs, bulls, and a ram. You will find the distinctive statue of the fertility goddess. The statue has robust legs, small dainty feet, and a pleated skirt. Located in the slab walls of the east temple are Oracle holes.
The central temple features a unique architectural design of three pairs of apses. Besides an arched roof. These are a sign of advanced construction techniques used at the time.
On your tour you will note information which describes what the remains are for. What the rooms could have been utilized for though there exists no solid evidence.
The original stonework found on site is displayed at National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta. The stone reliefs and sculpture currently found at the temple are reproductions.
Explore the Unique Ħal-Saflieni Hypogeum
Designated on the UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site. A rare testimony to a vanished prehistoric civilization. It is one of the impressive and fascinating historical places to visit around the world.
Ħal-Saflieni Hypogeum is a subterranean burial structure. It dates back to the Neolithic era 3,300 – 2,500 BC. The site is at an outstanding state of preservation. You can still see the delightful carvings and paintings in red ochre. The Hypogeum is sculpted from limestone. It has scores of catacombs situated on several levels. Chambers are interconnected through passages and stairways on three levels. Buried in its chambers historians believe that there are around 7,000 people.
Artifacts found at the Hypogeum are exhibited at the National Museum of Archaeology. These include distinctive clay sculptures; stoneworks of birds and renowned The Sleeping Lady.
Enjoy the Ġgantija Temples
The Ġgantija Temples are situated on the picturesque island of Gozo. These megalithic temples were constructed during the Neolithic period using limestone. According to historians this structure is the second oldest man-made religious complex in the world.
The Ġgantija Temple complex consists of two temple structures. Encircled by an outer fortification wall. A third temple was left unfinished as the temple site was disused.
In prehistoric times these temples were a place of worship. Also, utilized for sacrifices and offerings.
Visit Mnajdra
Mnajdra is another megalithic temple complex constructed with coralline limestone. Situated close to Ħaġar Qim and dates back to 4,000 – 3,001BC.
The complex is made up of three temples which were constructed during different time periods. The lowest temple is spectacular. It is the finest exhibit of megalithic architecture found in Malta. According to heritage it served as a kind of astrological observation center. This is due to its astronomical position. As archaeologists found a few ceremonial objects on site.
Explore Ħaġar Qim
The Ħaġar Qim Temples are another magnificent UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site. Located along Malta’s southern coast. Perched on a rocky plateau the temples overlook the Mediterranean Sea. Ħaġar Qim is one of the most ancient religious sites on Earth and dates back to approximately 3,600 – 3,200 BC.
This megalithic temple complex constructed out of globigerina limestone was discovered in 1839. Its largest megalith is more than seven meters long and weighs about 20 tons. The little boulders found around the area were utilized like castors. That is to move the huge megaliths into place.
The facade has a conspicuous entrance. It consists of two upright stones supporting one stone plank. This prehistoric temple has three non-symmetrical chambers. Yet, the chambers and apses still connect with one another. Each temple is an separate place of worship. There exist indications that fertility rituals and animal sacrifices were performed at Ħaġar Qim.
On display at the National Museum of Archaeology you will see artifacts found at Ħaġar Qim. Such as the Fat Goddess and the nude Venus of Malta.
Discover Għar Dalam Cave and Museum
Situated along Malta’s southern coast Għar Dalam. Another unique and captivating attraction. It is the oldest of prehistoric places located in Malta.
Għar Dalam is a huge underground cave which is 144 meters deep. It has evidence of human life which dates back 7,400 years. It is said that the first settlement in Malta resided here. As primitive cooking items were discovered in the cave. Għar Dalam features fossils of extinct animals. These go back to the Ice Age era such as hippos, deer and dwarf elephants.
Visit Fort St. Elmo
Fort St. Elmo is situated along the shoreline at the tip of Valletta. Constructed in a star formation it looks out over Valletta’s harbour. This fort was a prime focus during the Great Siege of Malta which took place in 1565. Than again during World War II. Yet, its military use was terminated in 1972. At present, Fort St. Elmo houses Malta’s National War Museum. It provides unobstructed scenic views of the harbour and neighbouring towns.
Explore Fort St. Angelo
Fort St. Angelo is a site located in south side of the Grand Harbour in Vittoriosa. A short boat ride away from Valletta. It offers an intriguing insight into its 800 year old history. Fort St. Angelo provides breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Grand Harbour.
Discover Fort Manoel
Fort Manoel was built during the occupation of the Order of the Knights of St John. Its primary purpose was to protect Valletta from enemy attacks. It offers spectacular views of Valletta and adjacent towns.
Activities to do in Malta
Trek around the island and discover scenic views, take a swim or visit one of Malta’s landmarks. You will find ample things to do.
Surrounded by deep blue Mediterranean Sea it is ideal for swimming. As well as watersports from May till early November. You are spoilt for choice. From wide sandy beaches such as Mellieħa bay, Golden Bay to rocky shores in Sliema, Anchor Bay and St. Paul’s Bay.
Take a dip at Golden Bay Beach
One of the most renowned and lovely sandy beaches in Malta. This beach is well-kept. Located in the northwest of Malta tucked behind cliffs away from street traffic. The beach has pristine water with soft golden sands. You can rent lounge chairs and umbrellas and spend the day sunbathing and swimming. Cafes and restaurants surround the bay together with well-maintained public facilities.
Swim at Għajn Tuffieħa Bay and Ġnejna Bay
Located close to Golden Bay is the well-preserved beach of Għajn Tuffieħa. Encircled by towering steep cliffs and hills. It can be accessed by ascending around 200 steps. This beach provides a quiet and tranquil environment.
The orange-sand beach of Ġnejna Bay is also situated close-by. Enclosed by precipitous limestone cliffs. It can be accessed by climbing down a flight of steps. This beach is equipped with several amenities. Which include food stands, restrooms and canoe rentals.
Take up a Watersport
Malta is blessed with a warm climate and clear deep blue seas. This combination is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or diving. From early May till early November.
Malta is one of the greatest scuba diving locations in the Mediterranean. The island has unique places for you to discover. Experience diving with a licensed instructor. To see Malta’s ever-growing number of artificial reefs. You can dive through several sunken shipwrecks situated around the island. Some of which go way back to World War II.
You can swim and snorkel in Malta’s beautiful azure waters to view its sea-life and colourful fish. A recent trend in Malta is to join a paddle boarding tour and go around Malta’s amazing coast. No matter your experience all you need is a paddle board and instructor.
Rent a kayak and go around Gozo’s coastline on half or full-day trip. You will see hidden sea caves, cliffs and Gozo’s coastal formation.
Walk along the Promenade
Walk along Malta’s beautiful promenade’s. One such walk is along the coast from Qawra to Buġibba and St. Paul’s Bay. You can continue your walk from St. Paul’s Bay to Xemxija Bay. A popular walk is along Sliema and St. Julian’s promenade. Another nice walk is along the Marsaskala promenade.
Explore various Footpaths
You can get off the beaten track and walk along the Xemxija Hill heritage trail. On the path you will see Roman ruins, other historic sites such a Punic tomb, burial and much more.
You can go trekking and appreciate the picturesque hiking trails from Mgarr. You can walk into the countryside or along the coast to Ġnejna Bay.
Explore Dingli Cliffs and the scenic view they offer. These cliffs are the highest point in Malta. You can walk on the pavement and admire the stunning seaside views.
Cruise the Grand Harbour
The Grand Harbour is the heart of Malta’s history. It lies between Valletta and the Three Cities. The harbour has azure waters. Surrounded by limestone forts and bastions on both sides of the sea.
This is one of Malta’s most significant geographical assets. Which in turn has amplified its greatness. The Grand Harbour saw many battles throughout history. It was once the base for the Knights of Order of Saint John and later the British.
Cruising the harbour will provide you with a different exploration outlook. Get on a small traditional Maltese boat known as ‘dgħajsa tal-pass’. Get this boat at the Old Custom House, situated beneath Valletta’s Upper Barrakka Gardens. Or from the Valletta Waterfront. Or you can book a larger organised and informative boat tour. This type of cruise departs from Sliema and takes you around the harbour and the Three Cities. There is also the option of a short ferry ride which takes you from the Valletta harbour to one of the Three Cities.
Enjoy the Blue Grotto
The Blue Grotto is situated on the southern end of Malta. It is one of Malta’s most sought-after nature sites. You can get to it by boat or see it from above. From Blue Grotto’s viewpoint you will see spectacular coastal views and the striking blue sea.
You can take a boat tour around the Blue Grotto in a traditional Maltese fishing boat called ‘luzzu’. The boat ride takes around 20-minutes and operates throughout the year in calm seas. On the way you will pass by several caves dotting Malta’s shore then enter the Blue Grotto. This cave is 30-meters high and has beautiful mesmerizing azure waters.
The Blue Grotto has abundant sealife. Which makes it a much sought scuba diving destination.
Attend a Maltese ‘Festa’
The Maltese ‘festa’ is a traditional feast organised in the honour of the village patron. These feasts are held from May through to September. Every village in Malta and Gozo has a week-long festival. The feast includes firework displays, marching bands, snack kiosks and authentic Maltese treats. Such treats are ‘imqaret’ and nougat made with almonds or peanuts. On Sunday evening the Patron Saint statue is paraded across the village streets.
Visit the Ta’Qali Crafts Village
This place is bursting with traditional Maltese handicrafts. Outlets situated in the village sell local hand-made artistry items. Such as glass, leather, linen, and ceramics. You also have the opportunity to see local crafts persons at work. As well as learn their craftsmanship techniques.
Family-Friendly Activities to do in Malta
Explore Popeye Village
You can visit the original Popeye Village set used to film the 1980 movie. Children can run around the set and visit houses. Special events take place on set during Christmas season, carnival and Easter.
Visit the National Aquarium
Spend a Day at Splash and Fun Water Park
Visit the Playmobil Fun Park
Check Out the Buġibba Water Park
Located in the heart of Buġibba this park is a relief from the summer heat. The water park is suitable for kids of all ages. They can run around. Soak themselves in the water loops, water umbrellas, bucket tower and palm spring.
Spend an Afternoon the Mediterraneo Marine Park
This is one of the best places which the whole family can visit and enjoy together. All the family will learn about exotic and wild animals. Both adults and kids can interact with sea lions and parrots. Handle reptiles and swim with dolphins. You are guaranteed an afternoon filled with fun!
Visit the Esplora Science Museum
Go Horse Riding at Golden Bay
This horseriding school is found at the picturesque Golden Bay beach. The horseback ride lasts one hour and will take you through the nature park situated close by. Whilst riding you will be able to take in the beautiful scenery. The experience is guaranteed to be fun. The riding activity is accessible for people of all ages. There is a range of options to choose your horseback ride. There are slots in the morning, mid-afteroon or at sunset.
Entertainment in Malta
Spend the night in Paceville – St Julian’s
Paceville is the mecca of the party life in Malta. It is to place to be to experience Malta’s nightlife. In the heart of Paceville you will many bars, restaurants and clubs. So, if you like to party and dance head to Paceville!
Dance at the Isle of MTV
This music festival takes place outdoors at the Granaries in Floriana. It is an annual music festival held in July. Entrance if free. This is a party to remember and features famous music stars. Past artists include Black Eyed Peas, Lady Gaga, Maroon 5, OneRepublic, Jason Derulo, Wiz Khalifa, Akon and many others.
Dine By The Sea
Malta’s coast is dotted with eateries. You can dine anywhere along coast and enjoy spectacular seaviews. Whilst relishing local food and drinking wine. Popular locations to dine by the sea are Sliema, Valletta, Marsaskala, Marsaxlokk and the Three Cities.
Things to try in Malta
Spend an evening at a Winery
Malta has wine growing sites and produces delicious wines. You can visit one of Malta’s leading wine makers for a tour of their vineyard and wine tasting. Keep in mind that Maltese wine is not sold abroad. So grab your chance and try the fantastic local wine. In Malta you can head to the Meridiana Vineyard whilst in Gozo you can stop at Tal-Massar. Enjoy wine tasting while nibbling appetizing Maltese or Gozitian platters.
Dine a Traditional Maltese Eatery
The majority of restaurants and cafes in Malta serve one or two dishes of traditional Maltese food. Though there are a couple of eateries which specialize in authentic Maltese food. The following are a couple of Maltese traditional food dishes. You can try the rabbit stew, octopus stew, ‘bragioli’ these are stuffed bundles of beef, fresh fish known in Maltese as ‘lampuki’ and Maltese salad. The Maltese Salad is made of ‘ġbejna‘, sun-dried tomatoes, Maltese sausage, olives, beans, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions and capers.
Try Local Delicacies
One of the island’s delicious treats is ‘pastizzi’. These are a traditional savory snack made of pastry filled with ricotta or mushed-up peas. You can buy ‘pastizzi’ from the authentic pastizzeria outlets. Which are located all around the island.
Other Maltese delicacies worth trying are ‘ftira Maltija’. This type of Maltese bread is stuffed with tuna, olives, onion, capers and ‘ġbejna’. Try the typical Maltese bread known as ‘ħobza tal-Malti’. As well as the Maltese ‘ġbejna’ which is like cheese made of a sheep or goats milk. For those with a sweet tooth try ‘imqaret’. This is a pastry filled with delicious date and fennel seed.
Sip a Local Ċisk Beer
Ċisk is the most famed beer sold in Malta. The locally brewed beer is a golden-colored lager. This is especially sought after on a warm day by the sea or to socialize with family and friends.
It is unbelievable how many things you can do on this tiny island. Especially when you take into consideration the size of the country. Malta is bursting with spellbinding history and breathtaking views. It is a magnificent place to visit all year round. Especially with its around 300 sunny days and warm Mediterranean climate.
