Top Places to Visit in Malta

Planning to visit Malta during the holidays? Great choice! This archipelago sitting quietly amidst the serene Mediterranean Sea and clear blue skies, houses some of the oldest buildings in the world. We can’t think of a country with such diversity, flaunting beautiful landscapes and architectural gems; and we’re not exaggerating when we say that it looks like someone has applied a beautiful Instagram filter all over Malta. You’ll have to see it to believe it!

Though the country’s asset is the bewitching deep blue sea, you can also visit the stunning underwater caves, the mesmerizing temples, and the beautiful monuments featuring medieval architecture. That’s not all! Foodies can gorge on Maltese food – a combination of Middle Eastern and Sicilian cuisines. There are plenty of pretty cafes here where you can enjoy a cheat meal – after all you’re on a break!

Here’s a list of the best places to visit in Malta...

1. Valletta: For those who love monuments and architecture

The capital of Malta, Valletta is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Yes, the entire city! Walk around the beautiful city and admire the beautiful architecture from the 16^th century. The city got its Italian nickname Superbissima, translating to “Most Proud”, because of its Baroque palaces, gardens and churches.

Places to visit in Valletta

The Saint John’s Co-Cathedral: The cathedral features Baroque architecture from the 17^th century, and the gorgeous ceiling paintings depicting the life of Saint John, are admirable. The entire marble floor features around 400 tombstones of the Grand Masters of the Order of Malta and other nobles.

Grand Master's Palace: Situated in the center of the town on Palace Square, Grand Master’s Palace used to be the residence of the Knights of Malta. While a part of the building is now used as the House of Parliament and the President’s office, the rest of it is open to public as a museum.

The Manoel Theater: This is one of the oldest theatres in Europe: it used to host operas, pageants, and theatrical performances. The visitors can take a self-guided tour with an audio guide and attend various events including classical music concerts, traditional opera, dance recitals, visual arts and drama theatre. Also, Café Teatro here offers mouth-watering dishes from the Sicilian cuisine.

2. Island of Gozo: For the adventure-seekers

This is the second largest island in the archipelago! If you’re an adventure lover, the Island of Gozo is the perfect vacay spot for you. Enjoy swimming, snorkelling and scuba-diving in the crystal-clear waters, or put on your sports shoes and go for trekking. Don’t miss the two lighthouses, each on a separate hill near the Għasri and Għarb villages, offering stunning views of the entire island and the secluded valley of Wied l-Għasri, popular amongst divers who want to explore the underwater caves. Want more? Get to the top of the Tas-Salvatur Hill to enjoy stunning vistas, and click numerous snaps with the popular statue of the Risen Christ.

#MMTFact: The island is famous for the Azure Window, featured in the Game of Throne series, during Daenerys and Khal Drogo’s wedding. Whether or not you’re a GOT fan, this picture-perfect destination must find its place in your itinerary.

The best beaches in Gozo: Ramla l-Hamra, San Blas Bay, Dwejra Bay and Dahlet Qorrot.

Star Attractions: Citadella, Ggantija Temples, Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary and the Dwejra area.

Read More: 7 Must-Not-Miss Experiences in Europe

3. St. Julian’s: For the party animals

If you want to enjoy Malta’s nightlife, St. Julian’s is where you should be headed towards. Grab a cocktail at one of the many bars, get tipsy on Maltese beer at a pub, or dance to the latest tracks at a nightclub – the list is endless. Portomaso, Spinola Bay, St. George’s Bay and Paceville, are the most popular areas amongst party animals. You can also gamble at the Dragonara Casino, the 19^th century palace-turned-casino, extremely popular amongst travellers and locals alike. You can also go to the Portomaso Business Tower – the tallest building in Malta, featuring office spaces, a shopping center and a nightclub.

And hey, if you’re travelling with your better-half, don’t forget to visit the Love Monument, a statue on Spinola Bay.

4. Mdina: For the history-buffs

This fortified city is the ancient capital of Malta and flaunts an extraordinary mix of medieval and baroque architecture. Home to some of the most beautiful churches and cathedrals, the city of Mdina dates back to 60 A.D. The beautiful cobblestone streets and the clear blue sky, make an amazing backdrop for pictures here.

Places to visit in Mdina

St. Paul's Cathedral: Dedicated to St. Paul the Apostle, this is the oldest church in Malta, featuring Baroque frescoes, engravings and other artworks.

Mdina Gate: Built in the Baroque style in 1724, It’s the main gate into the fortified city. It was featured in Game of Thrones’ third episode of the first season – “Lord Snow”.

Vilhena Palace: This French Baroque palace was built between 1726 and 1728. It used to be a hospital in the 19^th and 20^th centuries and opened for public as the National Museum of Natural History in 1973.

5. The Blue Grotto: For the nature lovers

The Blue Grotto refers to the number of sea caverns located on the south-east coast of Malta. Attracting thousands of tourists throughout the year, it’s in close proximity to Zurrieq town and Qrendi village. The sea flaunts an unusual bright blue colour – the waters are so clear that you can even see the stones and shells at the bottom. Isn’t that fabulous? Also, the location of these caves team up with the sun rays, leading to the seawater being mirrored on the cave walls and ceilings. It is a perfect location for swimming and snorkelling, so don’t forget to carry your swimsuit and snorkelling gear.

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