Mini Travel Guide for Malta: 7 Activities You Don't Want to Miss

Rugged cliffs, steep rocky coasts, lush valleys, and romantic bays overlooking the deep blue sea. This is how you could best describe the landscapes of Malta. It's no wonder that Malta was used as a backdrop for films like Game of Thrones, World War Z, Assassin’s Creed, By The Sea, and Gladiator. In this blog, we're sharing everything you need to know for your holiday to Malta.

Where is Malta Located?

In the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily, lies the archipelago of Malta. This South European microstate consists of the islands of Malta, Gozo, and Comino. Officially, the uninhabited islands of Cominotto, Filfla, Saint Paul's Islands, and Fungus Rock also belong to the island group. With its Mediterranean climate, this archipelago has plenty of sunshine hours in the summer months, but even in winter, with a bit of luck, you can still enjoy pleasant temperatures here. From Schiphol Amsterdam, you can fly to Malta Airport in about 2 hours and 55 minutes on a direct flight.

The Coolest Activities in Malta

1. Stroll through the streets of Valletta

When you're in Malta, a visit to the capital is a must. Stroll through narrow, steep alleys while admiring the sandstone buildings with characteristic balconies and brightly colored doors. Visit MUZA, The Malta National Community Art Museum. Have a drink at St. George’s Square. Take a look at Fort St. Elmo. Enjoy a lunch of fresh fish at King’s Own Bar and Restaurant or overlook the 'Three Cities' from the Upper Barakka Gardens.

2. Visit the Popeye Film Set

In the northwest, near the coastal town of Mellieha, lies Popeye Village. This colorful village full of wooden houses was built in the late seventies as a film set for the Hollywood movie Popeye, starring Robin Williams. Nowadays, the film set is a theme park where visitors can step into the world of Popeye. Take a photo with Olive and Popeye or admire the interior of the wooden houses. Don't forget to stop at the viewpoint where you can overlook the colorful houses and turquoise waters.

3. Sail in a Traditional Maltese Boat

From Valletta, you can take a dghajsa - a traditional Maltese boat - for a crossing to the 'Three Cities', also known as Vittoriosa, Cospicua, and Senglea. This boat, which resembles the gondolas in Venice, takes you to the other side in just a few minutes. Once ashore, you can wander through these small towns where time seems to have stood still. Visit one of the many churches, stroll through a maze of streets, or relax at a wine bar and taste a Maltese wine. The boat trip to the other side costs only a few euros. The boats don't sail in bad weather, but you can still travel to the 'Three Cities' by rental car or bus.

4. Take a Day Trip to Gozo

Gozo is the second largest island in the archipelago and, in our opinion, definitely worth the visit. With the Gozo Channel Ferry, you can sail from the harbor in the north of Malta to Gozo in just 25 minutes. The island consists of rugged coastlines, pristine beaches, impressive churches, charming towns, and surprising resorts. Beach lovers should head to Rambla Bay, a beach with orange sand, while history enthusiasts are better off visiting the Cittadella in Rabat. This fortress served as a refuge for the population of Gozo in the Middle Ages. Always wanted to see salt pans? Then visit the Xwejni Salt Pans.

5. Admire the Mosta Dome

To the west of Valletta lies the city of Mosta. One of the main attractions in this city is the Mosta Dome, also known as the Rotunda Santa Marija Assunta. The design of this gigantic, round church is inspired by the Pantheon in Rome. Adorned with decorations by artist Giuseppe Calì, this church is a feast for the eyes. In one of the sacristies, you will even find a replica of the bomb that pierced the dome in 1942. Miraculously, the bomb did not explode.

6. Tickle Your Taste Buds at Gululu

You get to know your holiday destination best when tasting the local cuisine. Though the archipelago is a melting pot of cultures, from Italian to Arabic, they've also developed their own cuisine. At Gululu restaurant, you can tantalize your taste buds with traditional dishes such as rabbit stewed in red wine or local fish soup with rice. All while overlooking the fishing boats nestled in the picturesque bay of St. Julian.

7. Take a Film Tour

Due to its rugged landscapes, Malta serves as the backdrop for many films. Even if you've never been on vacation in Malta, chances are you've been virtually transported to Malta through a movie screen. Film enthusiasts will delight in visiting the numerous film locations on the island. From the iconic Fort Ricasoli in Kalkara and the view of the Valletta harbor to the medieval Mdina Gate in Mdina and San Anton Gardens in Balzan. You can explore all film locations here.

Staying Overnight in Malta

Malta offers a wide range of accommodations. During our trip, we stayed at the Corinthia St. George's Bay in St. Julians, within walking distance of many restaurants and bars. When you book a room with an 'ocean view,' you wake up to the sound of waves in the distance. Every morning, an extensive breakfast buffet awaits you. From fresh fruit and pancakes to freshly baked bread and a boiled egg. After a day of sightseeing, enjoy a drink at one of the many bars or relax with a massage at the hotel's spa.

 
This article is written based on a press trip in collaboration with VisitMalta. Going to Malta soon and looking for travel inspiration? We've compiled all our blogs about Malta on this page.