Malta Travel Guide

Malta Travel Guide

Formerly known as Melita, the Republic of Malta is a Southern European island country consisting of an archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea. Majestic landscapes, crystal blue lagoons and pleasant weather conditions make Malta a popular tourist destination.

Malta’s location in the centre of the Mediterranean Sea provides a lovely climate and spectacular setting just a few hours’ flight from most major European airports.

If you’re planning on visiting this Mediterranean island nation, here is everything you need to know before you travel to Malta!

 

CURRENT TRAVEL & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 

• Public Health Travel Declaration and Passenger Locator Form ​(PLF)
• A valid vaccination certificate 
• A valid passport and/or visa  (please click here for more infor regarding visa requirements)

Please click here for more information on the latest travel requirements

GETTING TO MALTA

The easiest way to get to Malta is by air. There is an airport on the main island, which is located a short distance away from Valletta and St. Julian’s Bay. There are regular flights here from many major European airports year-round.

WHERE TO STAY                                                                                                  

During our time in Malta, we wanted to stay somewhere truly special and the Westin Dragonara Resort was exactly that. This family-friendly, five-star resort hotel is beautifully situated on a 74,000-square-meter peninsula on Malta’s largest island St. Julian. The Westin Dragonara Resort is an oasis of luxury and tranquillity, with pools, restaurants, bars, and picturesque sea views. Should you fancy it, there is even a hotel-casino that you can visit.

Plus, it has an excellent location near St. Julian’s Bay – a bustling harbour full of things to see and do.

WHAT TO DO / WHERE TO VISIT:

Malta is a small, but fascinating and beautiful country full of amazing sights, flavours, and places to discover. Along with a vibrant culture, Malta is also home to a rich history and stunning natural landscapes. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Malta:

• Explore Historical Valletta

No trip to Malta would be complete without exploring the countries stunning capital harbour city. Here you’ll find the remnants of a 16th century World UNESCO heritage city and all the hallmarks of a modern 21st-century city all in one place. Plus there is the beautiful harbour for you to explore, war rooms that acted as a secret HQ for the allies in WWII and the Barrakka Gardens that simply need to be seen to be believed.

• Tour the Tarxien Temples

Just south of Valletta, you’ll find the largest temple complex in Malta. These ancient structures were dedicated to the goddess of fertility and made up of a total of four different temples. As you wander through the corridors and arches, you’ll discover brilliant altars, carved spirals and images of animals all dating as far back as 3,300BC.

• Swim in the Blue Lagoon

A day trip to the Blue Lagoon is one of the most popular things to do in Malta and it’s easy to understand why. Located on the Island of Comino, this protected stretch of pristine water is flanked by stunning caves. There is no so shade, but you rent a sunbed with an umbrella for the day. Alternatively, some boats allow you to swim off them and offer shade on deck.

• See St. Johns Co-Cathedral

Here you’ll find the true meaning of ‘it’s what’s on the inside that counts’. Looking at St. Johns Co-Cathedral from the outside, you’ll see one of the most plane cathedrals in Europe. However, the moment you step inside you will be amazed. I won’t spoil it for you – just know that it’s well worth a look.

• Dive! Dive! Dive!

Malta is regarded by many as one of the best diving destinations in Europe. This is thanks in part to the clear water, but also the variety of dives. There are multiple wrecks, caves, and reefs to choose from!

•  Step back in time at the old capital of Mdina

Located on a picturesque hill in the centre of the main island, you’ll find the ancient capital of Malta, Mdina. Here you can wander picturesque streets, enjoy cafes and take in the impressive fortifications.

• Go to Gozo

Gozo is only 20 minutes from the main island of Malta and well worth a visit. Gaze up at the yellow cliffs or sneak away to secluded sandy beaches. For history buffs, you can also visit the Citadella in Victoria where there are Roman-inspired fortifications still standing to this day.

• Dine out in Valletta

Valletta is a maze of eateries and amazing flavours waiting to be discovered. As you explore the sights, keep an eye out for local delicacies like Pastizzi (a traditional pastry), Hobz Malti (local bread) or Gbejna (local cheese). Or for something more up-market, there are even a few Michelin star restaurants available on the island!  Maltese wine is also particularly good so get a glass if you can!

• Take in the View from Fort St. Elmo

How does panoramic views of the Mediterranean from a recently restored star-shaped fortress sound? If that isn’t enough to entice you, Fort St. Elmo is also home to the National War Museum as well as an incredible story of its own. Why not lose yourself amongst the fortifications and take in some breathtaking views while you’re at it?

•  Go Underground

In the centre of the island, there are ancient Roman catacombs that are unlike any other in Europe. Below Rabat, is a series of stone-cut tombs, carved window graves, and four-poster sarcophagi. This is a truly unique and fascinating spot in Malta.

Please check out my other Travel articles HERE.