Top Five Things To Do In Malta: How to make the most of your Malta holiday
By Laura Burke
Surrounded by the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean and averaging 300 days of sunshine a year, it's no wonder Malta is a favourite with Irish holiday makers. With its amazing array of historic sights, beaches, dining, nightlife and lots more, there's something for everyone in Malta. See our 7 night specials from €299.
1: Soak Up the Culture of Valletta
Valletta, the beautiful, fortified capital of Malta may be small but it is full of history and adventure. Despite the changes of time, Valletta still retains its 16th century charm and it is a city of historic scenes, quaint cafés and quirky shops. Soak up the culture of this fortress city wandering through the narrow streets, with majestic Baroque palaces, Renaissance cathedrals and some of Europe’s finest art work around every turn.
Enjoy panoramic views of the Grand Harbour while sitting in the sunshine of the Upper Barrakka gardens, whilst Caravaggio’s only signed artwork has found home in St John’s Co-Cathedral, a treasure chest of Baroque design. Those with an interest in aristocracy can stop off at the lavish family home of Marquiz de Piro: Casa Rocca Piccola.
Spend your day wandering through the city admiring architecture and soaking up the sun along the cobbled streets. At Valletta’s heart are energetic restaurants and wine bars, which show off specialties traditional to Malta, cooking using modern techniques and the finest local ingredients. Come dusk, Valletta’s waterfront is a postcard perfect scene, with a lively restaurant and Al Fresco dining scene.
2: TAKE A WALK IN GOZO
If you’re looking for a change of scenery, make sure to put the beautiful rural island of Gozo on your itinerary. Steeped in mystery, Gozo is thought to be Calypso’s isle in Homer’s Odyssey. Sitting in the Mediterranean Sea just off the coast of Sicily, Gozo is the perfect place to relax and enjoy exploring the island taking in some breath taking views. Maps provide the best routes that take in dramatic beaches, marvellous churches, historic ruins and picturesque villages, Gozo offers a tranquil stay to all of its visitors.
One of the best walks in Gozo is along Dingli Cliffs (see image). It’s truly spectacular to watch the sun set over the sea from the highest area in Malta where the cliffs rise 220m above the sea and the Gozo coastline is also home to some of the Mediterranean's best dive sites.
A winding walk will take you to the village of Saint Lawrence, home of the famous Azure Window, a stunning natural arch in the jagged coast which overlooks the sea. Take in this remarkable wonder while you can, as the window is expected to disappear in the next few years.
3: See the Splendour of the Grand Harbour and the Blue Lagoon by Boat
Our favourite way to admire the beauty of Malta is by boat. Whether you’re taking in the sunset over the horizon, marvelling at the Grand Harbour or just relaxing on the sea, a boat trip is a Malta must-do.
Home to the shimmering waters of the Blue Lagoon is Comino. The smallest of the islands, located between Malta and Gozo, it is known for having one of the finest beaches in Malta. You can reach Comino with day trips by boat leaving from both Malta and Gozo. Regular boat journeys give visitors the chance to explore Comino’s magnificent scenery, highlights of a trip to Comino are of course the beaches, its nature reserve and bird sanctuary. This truly is a piece of paradise in the heart of the Mediterranean.
4: Enjoy Fine Dining in St Julians
Malta’s known for its distinctive cuisine, which changes with the seasons. Malta’s recipes are influenced from the variety of different cultures and nationalities which have visited and settled on the island. Classic Maltese food is a fusion of Mediterranean styles with influences from Italy, North Africa, and the Middle East.
Foodies will love the mixture of critically acclaimed restaurants, al fresco dining and great wine that is unique to Malta.
The town of St Julian’s in particular is central for fine dining. St Julian’s is home to an abundance of waterfront restaurants and cosmopolitan eateries, many of which showcase Malta’s local traditional specialities and distinctive flavours. Other high end hot spots can be found in the surround areas of Portomaso, with sophisticated indoor and outdoor options available.
5: Take a Plunge Beneath the Waves
A colourful marine life makes Malta a favourite among divers and snorkellers, and it is widely regarded to be the top diving destination in the Mediterranean. Malta’s waters are known for being safe and clear, tepid sea temperatures and striking underwater wrecks and reefs makes diving one of the most rewarding experiences you could have while visiting the island. If you’re new to the diving scene, then never fear, the most up to date equipment, trained instructors and affordable diving schools mean that experts and beginners alike will not be disappointed.
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