Malta is a small archipelago located in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily, that has a fascinating heritage. With its palm-tree-fringed landscape and crystal-clear waters, Malta offers the perfect destination for a relaxing vacation. Here, we have compiled a comprehensive guide to the 12 best places to visit in Malta to help you plan your trip.
1. Valletta: The Elegant Capital
Valletta is the capital of Malta and a great place to start your visit. The entire city is testimony to the grandeur of the Knights of Malta, who created a capital worthy of their aristocratic stature. Valletta's regular grid plan and orderly public squares reveal the Knights' logical 16th-century urban planning. The entire town is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of the standout attractions in Valletta is St. John's Cathedral, which features world-class paintings by renowned artists and gold plating on every surface. The cathedral was designed by the best masters, mostly Italian, and is said to be one of the richest churches in the world.
Other must-see attractions in Valletta include the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens, which offer incredible views of the Grand Harbour, and the Palace Armoury, which houses an extensive collection of weapons and armor used by the Knights of Malta.
2. Sliema: The Maltese Hub for Delicious Food and Fantastic Shopping
Located just 5 kilometers from Valletta, Sliema is the main resort destination in Malta. It is known for its delicious food and fantastic shopping, making it a great location for tourists who want to enjoy the modern amenities of the island. Sliema was once the playground of the country's aristocracy but now caters to 20-something travelers and students on school breaks.
3. Gozo: A Peaceful Escape
The Island of Gozo is perfect for travelers looking for a peaceful escape. It is the second-largest island in the Maltese archipelago and has a population of around 37,000. The island is known for its stunning beaches, limestone cliffs, and sheltered bays.
One of the most popular attractions on the island is the Azure Window, which is a natural arch that has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, including Game of Thrones. Unfortunately, the arch collapsed in 2017, but the area is still worth visiting for its stunning rock formations and crystal-clear waters.
4. Comino: A Paradise for Snorkelers and Divers
Comino is the smallest island in the Maltese archipelago and is located between Malta and Gozo. The island is known for its crystal-clear waters and is a paradise for snorkelers and divers. One of the most popular attractions on the island is the Blue Lagoon, which is a sheltered bay with turquoise waters.
5. Mdina: The Silent City
Mdina is a fortified city located in the center of Malta. The city is known as the "Silent City" because of its peaceful atmosphere and lack of cars. It is a medieval town that was once the capital of Malta and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of the most popular attractions in Mdina is St. Paul's Cathedral, which was built in the 17th century. The cathedral features a stunning baroque interior and is the burial place of many Maltese nobles.
6. Marsaxlokk: A Fishing Village with a Colorful Market
Marsaxlokk is a fishing village located in the southeastern part of Malta. The village is known for its colorful market, which takes place every Sunday. The market is a great place to buy fresh fish, souvenirs, and other local products.
7. Hal Saflieni Hypogeum: A Unique Underground Temple
The Hal Saflieni Hypogeum is a unique underground temple located in Paola, Malta. The temple was built over 5,000 years ago and is an astounding example of ancient man's prowess. The temple is spread over an area of about 500 m2 and consists of three levels built over different periods, with varying styles of craftsmanship evident.
8. The Three Cities: A Hidden Gem
The Three Cities is a collective name for three fortified cities located across the Grand Harbour from Valletta. The cities are Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua. The Three Cities are a hidden gem of Malta and are a great place to explore if you want to get away from the crowds.
9. Blue Grotto: A Natural Wonder
The Blue Grotto is a natural wonder located on the southern coast of Malta. The grotto is a series of sea caves and is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning rock formations. The Blue Grotto is a popular destination for boat tours and a great place to explore the underwater world of Malta.
10. Ghar Dalam Cave: A Journey Through Time
Ghar Dalam Cave is a prehistoric cave located in the southeastern part of Malta. The cave is a journey through time and is home to some of the oldest remains of animals and humans found on the island. The cave is a great place to learn about the history of Malta and its unique flora and fauna.
11. Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples: Ancient Wonders
The Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples are ancient wonders located on the southern coast of Malta. The temples were built over 5,000 years ago and are an astounding example of ancient man's architectural prowess. The temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are a must-see for anyone interested in history and archaeology.
12. The Malta Experience: A Journey Through History
The Malta Experience is an audiovisual show that takes you on a journey through the history of Malta. The show is located in Valletta and is a great way to learn about the island's fascinating heritage. The show covers everything from the arrival of the first settlers on the island to the present day.
In conclusion, Malta is a small archipelago with a fascinating heritage, beautiful landscapes, and crystal-clear waters. The island offers a perfect destination for a relaxing vacation and is a great place to explore if you are interested in history, archaeology, and nature. We hope that this guide to the 12 best places to visit in Malta will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time on the island.