Malta
Stunning beaches, rich history, mouth-watering cuisine, and 320 historic monuments on a 27km island - don't let the small size fool you!
My Experience
I was really looking forward to visiting this country because I had received so many fantastic recommendations before going. With its stunning beaches, rich history and mouth-watering cuisine, this amazing country is definitely worth exploring. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and keep yourself hydrated throughout your adventure here because you are in for a treat!
Discover the enchanting capital city of Valletta, a UNESCO world heritage site which has a staggering 320 historic monuments that are waiting to be explored. Don’t let the small island fool you, as this 27km island has countless breath-taking destinations, picturesque beaches and electrifying nightlife that will leave you wanting more.
Must-See Places
Barrakka Gardens
Nestled in the heart of Valletta, The Upper Barrakka Gardens stands as a one-of-a-kind destination to add to your itinerary. This enchanting public garden not only provides a serene escape but also treats visitors to panoramic views of the Grand Harbour. As I embarked on my 5km run, it was only fitting to make this my initial pit stop, allowing me to pause and immerse myself in the mesmerising beauty that was in front of my eyes. Eventually, my energetic journey led me down to the Lower Barrakka Garden which can take no more than 15 minutes to get to from the Upper Barrakka Gardens. With its lesser-known status and fewer crowds, it offers a peaceful atmosphere which makes it an ideal spot to unwind and soak in the views. Both of the gardens are open to the public from 7.00am – 22.00pm and are freely accessible to explore. If you’re looking for alternative option, walking tours offer a fantastic opportunity to discover the sights and sounds of this amazing place. The guides have an extensive knowledge of the gardens and can share fascinating historical facts. They also offer the opportunity to discover other extraordinary landmarks, ensuring that your adventure is truly unforgettable.
Gozo Island
If I haven’t managed to persuade you to include Malta in your bucket list yet, I am confident that my final suggestion will do the trick. Gozo Island, the sister island of Malta, offers an unforgettable adventure with countless activities, the chance to immerse yourself in the local cuisine, and the opportunity for exploration like never before. I was lucky enough to have time to explore this island by taking a ferry across from Valletta and exploring the island in a jeep-style transportation. Since it was a day trip and guided tour, you have the chance to visit various locations on the island. These include the world heritage site ‘Ggantija Temple’, the Citadel with its breath-taking views of the entire island and the Xwejni Salt Pans, where you can learn about salt harvesting and even purchase genuine natural salt from the local farmers. There are always several options to book an experience like this one, but this particular tour offers everything you need with a buffer lunch, a round trip ferry from Valletta, hotel pick up and drop off and the expertise of knowledgeable guides. This specific guided tour costs around €80 EUR and lasts approximately 8 hours depending on weather conditions.
Beaches
If you’re looking for a fantastic beach experience on the mainland of Malta, then ‘Ghajin Tuffieha Bay’ is the ultimate destination. What sets this place apart is the abundance of diverse beaches in the vicinity where you can unwind and explore some incredible hiking spots. Now, if you’re an adventurous soul like me, I couldn’t resist scaling the rock face to reach a breath-taking viewpoint. Trust me, the effort was absolutely worth it for those who crave a thrilling experience. Getting to this top spot destination involves descending a steep staircase (more than 100 steps); so it is important to conserve your energy for the climb back up. If you’re not too concerned about this flaw, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy a relaxed afternoon of swimming and sunbathing. Please keep in mind that the currents at this beach can be strong and unpredictable at times. It’s important to pay attention to the flag system, as it serves as a reliable indicator of the sea’s safety. A bonus tip – reaching this location is a breeze with ‘Bolt’ services, which arrive within minutes from various locations in Valletta. Otherwise, this is one of the few beaches that can be accessed by public transportation. A bus route conveniently passes by on its way to Golden Bay, and the bus stop for this incredible beach is called ‘Riviera’.
Unforgettable Moments
St Julian's Experience
If you’re seeking an energetic and vibrant party atmosphere, head over to St Julian’s for an incredible experience. This vibrant area is renowned for its bustling vibes which is bursting with a multitude of clubs, bars and pubs. For solo travellers like me, pub crawl experiences are always a fantastic way to meet new people, immerse yourself in a lively atmosphere and discover the local nightlife. Nevertheless, if you are inclined to dance until sunrise at popular venues like Havana or Sky Club or indulge in delightful cocktails at a rooftop bar like Twenty Two – St Julian’s is the ultimate location to be. Additionally, this lively location offers a wonderful selection of dining choices, spanning from laid-back eateries to upscale fine dining venues making it a perfect place for a pre-night out dinner.
Book here →Tips & Recommendations
Top Tips
- •Pack LOTS of sunscreen and stay hydrated - sun is strong!
- •Use Bolt services to reach beaches - arrives within minutes
- •St Julian's for nightlife - Havana, Sky Club, Twenty Two rooftop bar
Food Recommendations
- •Local cuisine experiences on Gozo Island
- •Fresh seafood - fish, octopus, lampuki
- •Cisk - Local beer
What to Pack
- ✓LOTS of high SPF sunscreen (essential!), swim wear for beach relaxation and day pack for tours to Islands
Photo Gallery
Beach Exploring
Street Views
Beach Cities
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Spring and early summer months (April-June) are ideal! April-June and September-October for perfect weather and fewer crowds. July-August very hot (35°C+) and packed. November-March off-season - mild but some rain, cheaper, quieter.
Budget
Moderate (cheaper than Northern Europe)Getting Around
Reaching Ghajn Tuffieha Bay is breeze with 'Bolt' services arriving within minutes. Public bus route passes by on way to Golden Bay - bus stop called 'Riviera'. Ferry to Gozo from Valletta. Walking good in Valletta. Guided tours include transportation.
Language
Maltese and English (both official). Everyone speaks English fluently - former British colony. No language barrier!
Currency & Costs
Euro (EUR) - Budget Friendly
Accommodation
Valletta: Central for culture and gardens. St. Julian's: Nightlife hub, younger crowd, vibrant atmosphere. Range from hostels to hotels. Book early for summer.
My Rating
Would I return?
Absolutely!
Malta has plenty to offer for travellers seeking an unforgettable adventure. Whether you prefer vibrant city ventures, historic sites or charming islands, there is always going to be something for everyone that comes to visit. I had an absolutely amazing time during my personal adventure, exploring the beautiful beaches, enjoying the historic sites and experiencing the local nightlife. Without a doubt, I would eagerly return here during the spring and early summer months.