Malta

Malta’s landscape is steeped in ancient history, medieval architecture, and Mediterranean charm, making it a captivating destination for travelers seeking cultural depth and natural beauty. The ancient walled city of Mdina, known as the Silent City, offers winding stone alleys, historic palazzos, and panoramic views from its bastions. Valletta, the nation’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts architectural marvels like St. John’s Co-Cathedral with its opulent Baroque interiors and masterpieces by Caravaggio. The prehistoric temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world, give a glimpse into Malta’s Neolithic past. The Blue Lagoon in Comino is a turquoise paradise perfect for swimming and boat excursions, while the dramatic cliffs of Dingli and the Azure Window’s remains in Gozo offer striking coastal vistas. For a more immersive experience, exploring the Three Cities—Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua—provides a more local, less tourist-heavy alternative with authentic Maltese character and maritime history.

Malta’s cuisine reflects its multicultural past, fusing Mediterranean flavors with Arabic, Italian, and British influences. One must-try dish is rabbit stew, or "fenek," considered the national dish and typically braised in wine and garlic. Pastizzi, flaky pastry filled with ricotta or mushy peas, are a popular street food snack and deeply embedded in Maltese culture. Ftira is a traditional Maltese sourdough bread often topped with tuna, tomatoes, olives, and capers, resembling a rustic pizza. Stuffat tal-qarnit, or octopus stew, showcases the island’s abundant seafood offerings. Desserts like kannoli (yes, inspired by Sicily but with a local twist) and imqaret, deep-fried pastries filled with dates, are popular at village feasts and bakeries. Maltese coffee is strong and often served with fennel or clove aromatics, providing a bold and spiced finish to a meal.

Malta is a relatively small island nation, so getting around is straightforward but requires some local knowledge. Public buses are the primary mode of transportation, covering nearly every town and village, and tickets are inexpensive, though buses can be crowded during peak tourist season. Ride-hailing apps like Bolt and eCabs are increasingly common and more efficient than waiting for traditional taxis. Renting a car is a viable option, particularly if you plan to explore more remote parts of Gozo or the countryside, but driving is on the left-hand side and roads in some rural areas can be narrow and congested. Ferries provide scenic and practical travel between Malta, Gozo, and Comino, and many travelers choose to base themselves on Malta and take day trips to the neighboring islands. Valletta is compact enough to explore on foot, and walking around its narrow, steep streets often reveals hidden gems not found in guidebooks.

Malta can be a surprisingly affordable destination if you plan wisely. Street food like pastizzi and ftira sandwiches cost only a couple of euros and can be found in every village. Instead of high-end hotels, budget travelers should consider hostels in Valletta or Sliema, or guesthouses in Gozo that offer excellent value and authentic charm. Take advantage of multi-day bus passes which offer unlimited travel across the island for a set fee. Visiting public beaches and exploring historical city centers is free, and most major attractions have reduced entry fees on certain days of the month. Shopping at local markets for fresh produce and preparing your own meals also helps cut down on food expenses. Traveling during the shoulder seasons of late spring and early fall provides warm weather and fewer crowds at reduced costs.

Malta is widely regarded as one of the safest countries in Europe for travelers. Violent crime is rare, and locals are generally welcoming and helpful. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas or public transport, so keeping an eye on your belongings is advised. Medical services are reliable, and pharmacies are widespread across towns and cities. Tap water is safe to drink, although many locals prefer bottled water due to taste. As with any travel destination, always check current government travel advisories and consider registering with your embassy if staying for an extended period.

Maltese people are warm and proud of their cultural heritage. English and Maltese are both official languages, and communication with locals is generally easy for English-speaking travelers. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, especially churches, where covering shoulders and knees is expected. Tipping is customary but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is appreciated. Punctuality is valued in business settings but tends to be more relaxed in casual or social situations. Respect for elders and traditional family values are strong in Maltese society, and engaging with locals about their history or festas is welcomed.

Malta is a flexible destination that caters to a variety of travel styles. History and culture lovers will find themselves immersed in the layers of civilization left by the Phoenicians, Romans, Knights of St. John, and the British Empire. Beach lovers and sunseekers can unwind at golden bays like Għajn Tuffieħa or the translucent waters of the Blue Lagoon. Foodies will enjoy tasting the island’s unique mix of flavors, and wine lovers can explore emerging vineyards producing boutique vintages. Active travelers can hike Malta’s rugged coastal trails, go diving among WWII shipwrecks, or kayak between limestone cliffs. Whether you’re backpacking solo, honeymooning, or vacationing with the family, Malta is compact yet overflowing with experiences to match your travel preferences.

For low-budget travelers, options like Corner Hostel in Sliema or Inhawi Boutique Hostel in St. Julian’s offer dormitories and private rooms at a fraction of the price of hotels, while still providing access to nightlife and local beaches. Mid-range travelers can enjoy boutique hotels like Palazzo Prince d’Orange in Valletta or Quaint Boutique Hotel in Gozo, which provide historic charm and modern comforts without the luxury price tag. For high-end travelers, consider The Phoenicia Malta, a five-star property just outside Valletta’s city gates that offers lush gardens, an infinity pool overlooking the harbor, and exceptional service. Another luxury pick is Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz in Gozo, which offers secluded spa experiences and easy access to countryside excursions.

A frequent mistake travelers make is underestimating the distances between attractions, assuming Malta’s small size means everything is nearby. However, limited public transportation schedules and winding roads can make travel time longer than expected. Another misstep is failing to book ahead for ferries to Gozo or popular attractions like the Blue Grotto during peak season. Tourists also occasionally skip Gozo and Comino altogether, missing out on some of Malta’s most scenic and authentic experiences. Lastly, many travelers forget to bring reef-safe sunscreen—an essential item given Malta’s strong sun and delicate marine ecosystems.

Download the Tallinja app to navigate Malta’s public transportation system efficiently, including live bus times and route planning. The Bolt app is useful for ride-hailing around urban centers. The Visit Malta app, offered by the Malta Tourism Authority, provides up-to-date event listings, attraction details, and audio guides. Google Translate may be helpful for understanding signage in Maltese, though most are bilingual. Booking.com and Airbnb are popular for securing accommodations. For exploring Gozo or off-the-beaten-path areas, Maps.me offers reliable offline maps.

A well-rounded Malta itinerary starts with two days exploring Valletta’s rich historical and cultural offerings, including the Co-Cathedral and Grandmaster’s Palace. Follow this with a day trip to Mdina and Rabat, where you can explore medieval streets and Roman catacombs. Allocate a full day for a boat excursion to Comino’s Blue Lagoon and caves. Spend two to three days on Gozo visiting the Citadel in Victoria, the Ġgantija Temples, and relaxing in Xlendi Bay. Conclude your trip with time in the lively coastal towns of Sliema or St. Julian’s for dining and nightlife. If time allows, attending a village festa offers a glimpse into local life and traditions.

Malta is one of the world’s smallest and most densely populated countries, yet it is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the entire city of Valletta. The island nation has served as a backdrop for numerous film productions including “Gladiator,” “Troy,” and “Game of Thrones.” Despite its size, Malta has a rich military history and was awarded the George Cross by Britain for its role in World War II. The Maltese language is a unique Semitic tongue with heavy influences from Arabic, Italian, and English. Malta also has no permanent rivers or lakes, relying instead on groundwater and desalination for fresh water supply.