WELCOME TO
MALTA!
Valletta
Let's start off in the city of Valletta, the capital city of Malta, where history whispers through cobblestone streets and the breathtaking blend of Baroque architecture and Mediterranean charm for every wanderer to explore.
Upper Barrakka Garden
The view of the Grand Harbour & Three Cities: Birgu (Vittoriosa), Bormla (Cospicua) & Senglea.
Take the lift down from Upper Barrakka, enjoy a nice ferry ride from Valletta to Birgu with beautiful views. Walk around Birgu, grab a tasty meal at a local restaurant, and then catch a boat back to Valletta for a lovely trip back. Or take the Gozo Fast Ferry —These two ferries are just right next to each other.
Discover the Manoel Theatre, Europe's oldest running theater. Whether you opt for a guided tour or immerse yourself in a captivating show, you will love the timeless charm of this historic venue.
Ta’ Nenu in Valletta is a traditional Maltese restaurant known for its authentic local dishes and freshly baked ftira (Maltese pizza). With its rustic atmosphere and homemade recipes, it’s a great place to experience true Maltese flavors.
Take a leisurely stroll through Valletta, where captivating streets, charming balconies, unique doors, and historical local architecture await your exploration. In recent years, Valletta has buzzed with activity, boasting a vibrant scene with numerous new cafes and restaurants. While I may not frequent restaurants often, the spots I've shared here are gems we once cherished with friends—I'm confident you'll discover some wonderful places too!
Mdina
Nestled within ancient walls, Mdina, Malta's old capital and enchanting "Silent City," invites you to wander through its timeless streets, through medieval architecture and every corner exudes a captivating charm.
Pastizzi are a Maltese delight found practically everywhere, with pastizzerias dotting every town and street corner.
Our top pick is is-Serkin, one of Malta's oldest pastizzeria, open round the clock, offering freshly baked pastizzi in three tempting flavours: traditional ricotta cheese, curried pea, and the more recent addition, chicken. While the cheese and pea options are classic favourites, is-Serkin's chicken pastiz steals the show for us. A must-grab before a stroll to Mdina, we savour these warm treats on the way to the Mdina Gate.
Mdina beckons you to wander through its historic charm and embrace the beauty of an ancient world. Malta was once part of the Roman Republic and Mdina served as Malta's capital during medieval times.
Mdina, often referred to as the "Silent City," earned its moniker when the capital relocated from Mdina to what is now Vittoriosa. The departure left Mdina nearly deserted, leading locals to liken it to a ghost town and giving rise to its enduring nickname, the Silent City.
In the present day, Mdina is a bustling tourist destination, providing a glimpse into an ancient world. The architectural features of its establishments bear witness to a rich heritage, with influences ranging from Arabic and Turkish to Roman, creating a captivating tapestry of cultural history.
Wrap up your visit to Mdina with a cozy drink and delectable cakes at Fontanella. What sets this place apart is the panoramic view from its rooftop terrace, offering a captivating glimpse of the surrounding towns, adding the perfect finishing touch to your delightful day.
Some of the must visit places in Malta
Enjoy the breathtaking view of the Blue Grotto (and Filfla—small island) in Zurrieq from above, or opt for a boat ride to admire the majestic cliffs from below, immersing yourself in the beauty of the cobalt blue waters.
Il-Blata il-Bajda saltpans with St Paul's Island in the background
The view from the roof of The Red Tower in Mellieha is a must!
Head Cirkewwa to Comino with a delightful boat ride, where the pristine waters of the Blue Lagoon await to captivate you.
Gozo
Just a short ferry ride from Malta, Gozo is a serene island known for its rolling hills, pristine coastline, and timeless villages, Gozo blends natural beauty with rich history and a slower pace of life. From ancient temples and dramatic cliffs to hidden coves and fresh Mediterranean cuisine, the island offers a unique experience that makes it a must-visit destination in the Maltese archipelago.
Ramla Bay is widely considered Gozo’s, and arguably Malta’s, finest beach. Known locally as "Ramla il-Ħamra" – the Red Sandy Beach – this expansive stretch of red sand offers a stunning and unique coastal experience. Classified as a Natura 2000 protected site, Ramla Bay not only boasts the island’s best beach but also features an ecologically important rare sand-dune habitat.
No need for a lengthy explanation—If you find yourself in Gozo, give it a go. Indulge in the Gozitan "Ftira"—resembling a pizza, but far from ordinary. Topped with thinly sliced potatoes, it's a glorious treat for potato enthusiasts!
Maxokk, the quaint and age-old bakery, operates as a busy take-away spot. Plan ahead by calling a few hours in advance. Check out their menu, and order to your heart's desire!
In the heart of the remarkable Xagħra plateau on the island of Gozo, the Ġgantija Archaeological Park complex stands as a unique prehistoric marvel. This extraordinary site features two structures, constructed between approximately 3600 and 3200 BC.
San Blas Bay is renowned for its distinctive reddish-orange sand, which is a striking feature shared with Ramla Bay. The beach is approximately 100 metres in length and is surrounded by lush green vegetation, creating a cosy and intimate atmosphere.
Just a brief stroll from the Inland Sea lies the vantage point for a view of Fungus Rock.
Malta and Gozo are bursting with culinary gems, from traditional eateries serving hearty Maltese dishes to modern restaurants offering global flavours. Whether you’re looking for a seaside spot with fresh seafood, a cozy bistro in a historic village or a fine-dining experience, the islands cater to every taste. Below is a link of restaurants around Malta and Gozo worth exploring.
