Malta
Malta is an island country south of Sicily and not far from the Tunisian Coast. It is a multicultural nation with English as their second Language. Unlike in other European countries, Maltese drive cars on left.
The following are some of the best places to see around in one week. You can use them to plan the order of the trip according to pace, transport, and how much coastal time you want. Malta works best when the week is treated as one connected island route rather than as isolated stops.
Valletta
The capital city of Malta is magnificent, with distinctive architecture and painted wooden bay windows overlooking the sea. Valletta rewards slow walking because so much of its appeal sits in the streets rather than in one single attraction. It is the right place to begin the week if you want Malta's history to frame the rest of the trip.
Barrakka Garden is one of the best places to spend some good time. Also, visit to St. John's Co-Cathedral and early rise for colorful morning markets are recommended.
The Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea and Copiscuo) are spectacular. These places give a perfect experience of Maltese Culture and lifestyles. There is a ferry service from Barrakka Garden to visit Three Cities. The round trip will cost around 2.80 euro.
Gozo
Gozo is a greenery island with more slow and rural lifestyles. There are helicopter services costing 45 euro each to reach the island. The cheaper option is by ferry and it takes about one hour. Enjoy some good coffee and take some casual stroll around the city. The view of the island is amazing from the Citadel Rampant. You may also wish to spend a night in one of the old farmhouses and dwell with the locals.
The beaches in Gozo are less crowded compared to those on mainland Malta. Swim and relax at Ramla Bay or Marsalform Bay if you want a slower island day. Gozo works well as the part of the week that reduces the pace rather than increases it.
Comino Island
If you have some more time, Comino Island is another adventure. It apparently has 3 inhabitants. The Blue Lagoon is also an experience of beauty to swim and snorkel in crystal clear water.
Mdina
Commonly known as "The Silent City", Mdina offers a silent city walks along the cobbled streets. Visit the Cathedral Museum or stroll through the lantern-lit streets at night. The first season of Game of Thrones was filmed here. So, you may find some familiar sights.
Sliema
Sliema offers a retail therapy. It has more than 600 stores like British chains such as Virgin Megastore. Bisazza streets and The Strand are not to be missed. Walking around the extended promenade can give you breathtaking views of the harbors. Paceville also has dozens of night bars and clubs which is close to Sliema. You may also wish to visit Spinola Bay for some waterside meal.
Some other options to explore are Marsaxlokk, St. Peter's Pool, Café del Mar, and Long Bay. These stops work best when grouped by area instead of forced into one rushed day. Malta is small, but the week still improves when movement stays efficient.
Food
Food culture in Malta is rich, with influences from Middle Eastern, Greek, Italian, and British cuisines. Maltese fish stew called Ajotta and Imquaret are among the local specials worth trying. Food is one of the easiest ways to notice how layered Maltese culture really is.
Accommodations
Valetta has more of day activities than night life. If you prefer day life, you may station in the capital city. For beach time, Sliema offers better accommodations. St. Julian's is center to all good locations and there is also a small man-made beach. Both St. Julian's and Sliema are popular residential areas. For entertainment and clubbing purposes, Paceville has better facilities.
Points to Remember
- The main cities are very crowded and traffic jam is common. So, take note of the delays.
- The weather is relatively hot in summer. So, be prepared beforehand if you are from cold places.
- The food is bit expensive since most of the products are imported. Always carry a bottle of water and some food while walking as you can feel dry often.
- The currency is euro.
