Visit Malta This Winter for Sun, Sea and Splendour
By Godfrey Lydon
Whether you’re a sun worshipper, a night owl, a history buff or an outdoors enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in Malta this winter. With over 300 days of sunshine every year, crystal-clear blue seas and history and culture galore, the Maltese Islands are the perfect destination for a city break or sun getaway. Here are our top recommendations for things to do and sights to see on your trip to Malta.
Explore the capital - Valletta
Valletta is the capital of Malta and a UNESCO world heritage site. On the narrow, little streets of Valletta, you’ll find many historic attractions including St John’s Cathedral, which houses a Caravaggio masterpiece. Other landmarks include as you walk amongst the narrow, cobbled streets including the Triton Fountain and City Gate, the Grandmaster Palace Courtyard and the Upper Barrakka Gardens which offers breath taking views over the Grand Harbour below.
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Mdina, Malta’s medieval capital city, is another favourite destination for visitors and is one of the most photogenic places in Malta. This small town on a hilltop is also called the ‘Silent City’ due to the ancient, fortified walls that surround the town. Marvel at the 17th century Baroque-style St Paul’s Cathedral or go underground to visit the Roman burial complex of St Paul’s catacombs. Stop by the popular Fontanella Tea rooms for an afternoon refreshment and take in the exquisite views of the surrounding hinterland.
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Visit the Beautiful Islands of Gozo and Comino
The beautiful island of Gozo is just 25 minutes by ferry from Malta and you can bring your car on the ferry (the Maltese drive on the left-hand side of the road like in Ireland!). The island has many hidden gems from beautiful natural scenery to beaches and historic sites. The capital, Victoria is home to a medieval citadel full of historic monuments and architecture. One of the world’s oldest monuments, Ġgantija, is located in Gozo and is another of the island’s UNESCO world heritage sites.
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Comino, the smallest of the Maltese Islands, is sparsely populated and is home to the famous Blue Lagoon, a beautiful pool of crystal-clear water. Make sure to try out some of the other beaches too. You can take a boat tour around the island to explore it more. The Coral Lagoon which is a big hole in the rock is a great place for kayaking, snorkelling and diving. Indeed, with over 100 captivating dive sites throughout the Maltese Islands and great visibility, it’s not surprising that the Maltese Islands are regularly voted number one diving destination in Europe.
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Seafood and Cliff Jumping
The small and picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk is a must-visit on your trip to Malta. The colourful boats moored in the port are an iconic image of Malta. These traditional, fishing boats are called Luzzu and have a long history dating back to ancient times. While here, make sure to check out the local seafood. Like many other places in Malta, there is a beautiful church here to see and a fort as well.
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St Peters’ Pool is just 10 minutes by car from Marsaxlokk and is one of the most stunning, natural swimming pools in Malta. If you’re brave enough, you can jump right into the pool or alternatively, you can swim, snorkel or just relax in the sun.
Malta’s Rich History
Evidence of human habitation on the Maltese islands dates back to the dawn of civilisation over 7000 years ago and Malta is home to some of the oldest free-standing temples in the world. Indeed, Malta has 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites which are the capital city of Valletta, the Megalithic Temples of Malta and Hal Saflieni Hypogeum. In addition, Malta has seven sites on UNESCO’s tentative list including Mdina and the Cittadella in Gozo. Make sure to visit these sites on your trip to Malta.
Evidence of human habitation on the Maltese islands dates back to the dawn of civilisation over 7000 years ago and Malta is home to some of the oldest free-standing temples in the world. Indeed, Malta has 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites which are the capital city of Valletta, the Megalithic Temples of Malta and Hal Saflieni Hypogeum. In addition, Malta has seven sites on UNESCO’s tentative list including Mdina and the Cittadella in Gozo. Make sure to visit these sites on your trip to Malta.
Nightlife and Festivals
If you’re looking for festivals, theatre, clubs or bars, Malta is the place for you. Malta has a huge choice of bars, clubs, restaurants and nightlife to cater for everyone. From swanky wine and cocktail bars in Valletta to the nightclubs of St Julian’s to casinos and more, a night on the town is a must-do in Malta!
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The Maltese Islands have a number of religious festivals during the year as well as local ‘festas’ to celebrate patron saints. Cultural events such as the Malta Fireworks Festival, the Malta International Arts Festival, Notte Bianca and the Malta Jazz Festivals have become big events in the calendar in recent years.
Music festivals will return to Malta in 2022 with AMP Lost & Found Festival and Earth Garden taking place in June and Glitch Festival 2022 in August.
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