This beautiful Mediterranean Island of Malta is packed with history, sunshine and magic. It’s known for its clear blue waters and huge sprawling sandy beaches.
But Malta also has a deep history shaped by thousands of years of conquests, trade and philosophy due to its Mediterranean location. It makes it the perfect spot for beach lovers and history enthusiast alike.
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Must Do’s
Vallette
Vallette is the capital of Malta and it is absolutely stunning. Here you will find the St. Johns Cathedral which is known for its Baroque architecture within its walls, you will be totally captivated with the beauty hidden within. Another must see in Vallette is the Upper Barrakka Gardens with stunning views over the island, here on most days at 12pm and 4pm you can witness the traditional firing of the canons. Dominating St George’s Sq is also the Grand Masters Palace which became the official residence of the Governor of Malta.
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Mdina
This medieval town transports you back in history to 4,000 plus years. Here you will find a mix of narrow cobbled car free streets and panoramic exquisite views. It is known as the silent city due to its quiet atmosphere, it can get quite packed with tourist however it is a lovely walk and at the centre you will find St Paul’s Cathedral.
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Gozo and Blue Lagoon
If you a fan of swimming in the sae then this is a day trip you do not want to miss. There are options of private boats or public ferries. A ferry from Malta to Gozo is around 30 mins and once there you visit impressive historical sites such as the Cittadella which will give you some panoramic views and the Ggantija Temples which are among the worlds oldest free standing monuments, these even pre-date Stonehenge. There is then a ferry that departs often from Gozo to visit the Blue Lagoons and as an avid snorkeller and swimmer it was somewhere that was on my bucket list. Here you will find shallow crystal clear turquoise water which is break taking to see and swim in.
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Blue Grotto
Blur Grotto is a spectacular network of sea caves based on the Southern coast. If oyu are already out on a tour then they may stop here and you can pay a little sum of money to take you out on a boat that will take you through the caves. You will need to bring cash to pay for this and is around 10 euros per person. The caves themselves are just for boats and therefore swimming is not allowed but you can swim in the nearby Wied iz-Zurrieq which is public bay.
Where to Stay
Malta is generally a small island so it doesn’t take long to get a round therefore picking a spot ot stay will depend on your preference.
Valletta
Valletta is the Capital and therefore it is the easiest pick when deciding where to stay. It’s central so easy to get around and has a lot of fine dining options aswell.
Sliema or St Julian’s
If you’re looking for a more beachy atmosphere then either of these are great options. They are lively and offer many options when it comes to bars and restaurants.
Mellieha and North Coast
If you are looking for family friendly options with nice beaches that is a little quieter then this will give you just that are more as you will also be able to take in the more traditional Maltese culture.
Food and Drink
Trattoria del Mare
Sitting at a table in Trattoria del Mare will transport you into another world. The restaurant has a buzzy, seaside vibe right on the promenade where you can see views of Valletta whilst dining on fresh Italian cuisine.
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Azar
Azar gives a more upscale dining experience where most of the menu is fire led therefore grilled, smoked, wood fired with meats and seafood alike.
Paranga
Another great restaurant adjacent to the Mediterranean Sea offering beautiful views set in St George’s Bay. This restaurant is part of the Intercontinental hotel offering award winning food and fresh fish that is delivered daily. Walking in here you will be greeted with the offer of what seafood you would like to choose from aswell as delicious pasta options aswell.
The Rooftop Restaurant and Lounge Valletta
A must see is the Rooftop at the Embassy Hotel that gives you glam vibes and panoramic views across Valetta and the harbour. Here you can enjoy cocktails, dinner and everything inbetween.
Last thoughts
Malta is a great destination for a long weekend or longer holiday. The island may be small but there is so much to do and so you can cover it all within a weekend or you can stay longer and spend some time chilling by the beaches or pools. Either way with such a short flight from the UK it is a perfect spring destination.
By Vallisa Chauhan
