Malta: The Island of Knights and Its Legendary Treasures

A precious gem in the Mediterranean, where history breathes through the alleyways and the sun bathes the turquoise waters with its warmth. A journey here feels like a trip through time, between knightly castles, Baroque churches, and traditional fishing villages. This travel guide will help you uncover the hidden secrets and most stunning corners of Malta, a destination where every corner hides centuries-old stories and every landscape feels like a painting.

How to Get to Malta

Malta is easily accessible by air, with Malta International Airport located near Luqa, just 20 minutes from the capital, Valletta. From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or rent a car to reach your destination.

We flew with Ryanair from Thessaloniki, with a cost of approximately 70 euros for a round trip. However, there are days when ticket prices can be even more affordable, so it’s a good idea to look for deals. The flight duration is about 2 hours, making the journey quick and comfortable.

Where to Stay in Malta

Malta offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit your preferences and budget. Valletta is perfect for those who want to be close to history and cultural activities, offering luxury hotels and boutique accommodations. If you prefer the sea and relaxation, St. Julian’s and Sliema provide numerous options by the water, with seaside hotels and restaurants. For a more peaceful and picturesque experience, you can opt to stay on the island of Gozo or near the Blue Lagoon, where you’ll find traditional farmhouses and high-quality hotels with stunning views.

We chose to stay in the St. Paul’s Bay area, with the room costing 60 euros per night for a double room with a fully equipped kitchenette. This location provided us with a comfortable and practical base to explore the island.

Must-See Attractions

Valletta: The capital of Malta, full of historical buildings, narrow picturesque streets, and Baroque churches. The Palace of the Grand Master, St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens are some of the top attractions. Valletta also served as a backdrop for famous film productions like Game of Thrones, adding even more magic to its atmosphere.

Mdina: Malta’s “Silent City”, medieval and mysterious, offers enchanting views and a time-traveling atmosphere. Walk through the stone alleys and discover its mansions and churches. The impressive Mdina Gate was used as the King’s Landing Gate in the popular series Game of Thrones, making the city even more captivating for movie fans.

Rabat in Malta is a town rich in history and cultural heritage, known for its archaeological landmarks such as the St. Paul’s Catacombs and the Domus Romana, a Roman villa with impressive mosaics. The town is also home to significant religious sites like the Basilica of St. Paul and the Chapel of St. Agatha. With its narrow streets, traditional buildings, and peaceful atmosphere, Rabat offers visitors an authentic experience and is located very close to the medieval town of Mdina. It is ideal for those who wish to explore Malta’s heritage and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Blue Grotto: A natural wonder of Malta, where the sunlight reflects off the turquoise waters, creating a dreamlike scene. Boat trips here offer a unique experience.

Hagar Qim Temple: One of the most important prehistoric temples in the world, with stones weighing up to 20 tons, dating back to before Stonehenge. This archaeological site is a treasure for history and archaeology enthusiasts.

Gozo & Comino Islands: The islands of Gozo and Comino are two of the most beautiful and unique parts of Malta, offering unparalleled natural beauty and incredible experiences for visitors.

Gozo is the quietest and greenest of Malta’s three islands. It’s ideal for those seeking tranquility and nature. The island is famous for the ancient Ggantija Temple, one of Malta’s most important archaeological sites, dating back to the Copper Age and considered older than the Pyramids of Egypt.

If you’re looking for a more exotic and picturesque experience, Comino is the island you shouldn’t miss. The Blue Lagoon on Comino, with its transparent waters, is the ultimate location for swimming and relaxing under the sun. Here, the island’s natural beauty combines with the peaceful landscape, creating a paradisiacal setting.

To explore these magical islands, many boat and catamaran cruises depart daily from Malta and Gozo. These cruises offer the opportunity to discover secluded beaches, caves, and hidden spots, with many including stops for swimming and bathing at the most famous locations, like Comino’s Blue Lagoon or Gozo’s Cave of Calypso. If you want to enjoy the sun and sea in all their glory, these cruises are the perfect choice for an unforgettable Mediterranean experience.

Discover the Flavors of Malta: Traditional Dishes and Unique Culinary Delights

Malta’s cuisine is a unique blend of Mediterranean and North African influences, offering dishes full of flavor and tradition. Some of the most famous traditional foods of Malta include pastizzi, a flaky pastry filled with ricotta cheese or savory peas, which is very popular as a snack or breakfast. Another beloved dish is lampuki (fish), especially enjoyed in the fall when it’s in season. You can find it baked or in soup. Another iconic dish is ftira, a traditional Maltese pizza topped with cheese, tomatoes, olives, and seafood. One more must-try traditional dish is rabbit stew, a flavorful Maltese specialty.

For dessert lovers, Malta offers imqaret, deep-fried dough balls filled with date syrup and spices, which make the perfect sweet treat alongside coffee. Locals often enjoy their meals with a glass of Kinnie, a local carbonated drink with a citrus and herb flavor. When visiting Malta, make sure to sample these dishes for an authentic gastronomic experience!

Tips from Travel Guide Views: www.travelguideviews.com

Getting Around Malta
Public transportation in Malta is quite reliable, with buses covering almost the entire island. You can buy a Tallinja card to make using the buses easier. If you prefer more freedom, renting a car or even an electric scooter is a great option, especially to explore more remote areas.

Sun Protection Tips in Malta
Malta experiences intense sun, especially during the summer months. Be sure to pack sunscreen with a high SPF, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from harmful sun rays. Additionally, the water can be saltier than usual, so make sure to carry a water bottle with you.

Explore Gozo Island
Gozo is a picturesque island that offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Malta, with stunning nature, beautiful beaches, and rich historical landmarks. If you have the time, spend a day or two exploring this charming destination to fully experience its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Food and Drink to Try in Malta
Make sure to taste pastizzi, lampuki, and ftira, as mentioned earlier, but don’t miss trying the rabbit stew (fenek). Also, be sure to try the local wine and Malta’s traditional beer, Cisk.

Visit Malta’s Museums and Historical Sites
Malta is rich in history and culture. Visit the museums of Valletta, the catacombs in Rabat, and historical sites around Mdina. Don’t miss Fort St. Elmo and the Museo Del Prado for a deeper insight into Malta’s past.

Nightlife in Malta
Malta has a vibrant nightlife scene, especially in St. Julian’s and the Paceville area, where you’ll find plenty of bars and clubs. If you’re looking for something quieter, many seaside areas offer restaurants and cafes with fantastic views.

Malta: A Timeless Destination of Culture and Beauty

Malta is a crossroads of cultures, an island that blends history, natural beauty, and the warmth of its people. As the sun sets behind the stone walls of Mdina and the waves gently kiss the shores of Gozo, the soul fills with images that stay etched forever. Malta, a dream that never ends, a destination you can’t visit just once.

Malta Travel Guide: Ultimate Attractions, Hidden Gems & Unforgettable Adventures