Malta

Malta is a Mediterranean gem where ancient history meets island charm. Valletta, the fortress-like capital, is packed with Baroque architecture and grand harbors, while Mdina’s quiet streets transport visitors back in time. The island’s prehistoric temples, older than the pyramids, add layers to its rich past. Crystal-clear waters surround the island, with the Blue Lagoon and Gozo’s rugged coast drawing sunseekers and divers. Maltese cuisine blends Italian, Arabic, and British influences, best enjoyed in seaside villages like Marsaxlokk.

Most visitors come to explore Valletta, the capital, with its baroque architecture, St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and Grandmaster’s Palace. Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage site and serves as a hub for the island’s history and culture, showcasing the legacy of the Knights of St. John. Beyond the capital, Malta offers beautiful beaches, like those found at Golden Bay and Mellieha, and the island’s archaeological sites, including the Hypogeum and Mnajdra Temples, which date back to prehistoric times. The nearby island of Gozo is a peaceful retreat with stunning coastal views, natural wonders like the Azure Window, and charming villages. Whether you’re visiting ancient temples, relaxing on sandy shores, or enjoying Mediterranean cuisine, Malta offers a wealth of experiences.

The year-round good weather ensures most leave with a good tan, although some with just a red glow. For culture vultures, you’ll find some of the oldest structures in the world, which put our meagre existence into perspective. If however ancient churches don’t do it for you, adrenaline junkies will find underwater caves to explore, limestone cliffs to climb up, or fall down, and an abundance of sea life to gawp at.

Malta is a moderately priced destination, with a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget hostels and guesthouses to luxury resorts. The food scene is heavily influenced by both Mediterranean and Italian cuisine, with dishes like pastizzi (flaky pastry), rabbit stew, bragioli (beef olives), and fresh seafood being staples. The island is also famous for its Maltese bread and local wine. Dining out can be affordable, especially in local restaurants or street food stalls, although prices can rise in tourist-heavy areas like Sliema and St. Julian’s.

Getting around Malta is straightforward and convenient. Public transport includes buses that connect major towns and attractions, and taxis are also available. Car rentals are popular for those wishing to explore the island at their own pace, especially to visit remote beaches and archaeological sites. Malta also has a well-connected ferry system, with regular trips to Gozo and the nearby Comino island. Cycling is a growing activity, especially for those wanting to explore the scenic coastline. English is one of the official languages, alongside Maltese, and it is widely spoken across the island. Malta is considered a safe destination, with low crime rates and friendly locals, making it a great place to relax and explore.

Why Go to Malta?

• Valletta’s History & Architecture: Explore Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its baroque buildings, St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and the Grandmaster’s Palace.
• Prehistoric Temples & Ruins: Visit the Mnajdra Temples, Hypogeum, and other ancient ruins that date back thousands of years.
• Beaches & Coastline: Relax on the sandy beaches of Golden Bay and Mellieha, or enjoy the crystal-clear waters for swimming, diving, and snorkeling.
• Gozo’s Natural Beauty: Discover Gozo, known for its Azure Window, beaches, and quiet villages, perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
• Maltese Cuisine & Wine: Try pastizzi, rabbit stew, and other local dishes paired with Maltese wine.
• Mediterranean Culture & Festivals: Experience the island’s festivals, like Maltese Carnival and Notte Bianca, which showcase local culture, food, and traditions.
• Historical Sites & Fortresses: Visit Fort St. Elmo, Fort Rinella, and other historic fortresses that tell the story of Malta’s strategic importance over the centuries.

Start your journey in Valletta, the capital city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Valletta is a small but fascinating city, with narrow streets, grand palaces, and beautiful Baroque architecture. Don’t miss the St. John’s Co-Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in the world, known for its stunning interiors and works by Caravaggio. The Upper Barracca Gardens offer panoramic views of the Grand Harbour, while the Fort Saint Elmo is a historic site that showcases Malta’s military history.

Another must-visit location is Mdina, the ancient capital of Malta, often referred to as the “Silent City” due to its quiet, narrow streets. The city is known for its medieval and Baroque architecture, with highlights including the St. Paul’s Cathedral and Mdina Dungeons. From the city walls, you can enjoy sweeping views of the island.

Gozo, Malta’s smaller sister island, is known for its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful landscapes, and historic sites. The Ggantija Temples, older than the Pyramids of Egypt, are among the oldest freestanding structures in the world and are a UNESCO World Heritage site. Azure Window, a natural rock formation on Gozo, was once a popular landmark until it collapsed in 2017, but the area remains stunning. Gozo is also home to beautiful beaches like Ramla Bay and Xlendi, perfect for swimming and relaxation.

For nature lovers, Comino offers stunning crystal-clear waters and a tranquil environment. The Blue Lagoon, located between Malta and Comino, is one of the most famous spots for swimming, snorkeling, and boat trips.

If you’re looking to learn about Malta’s military history, the War Museum in Floriana and the Lascaris War Rooms in Valletta are essential visits. These sites showcase Malta’s strategic importance during World War II and the country’s military past.

Highlights

• Valletta – The capital city, known for its grand Baroque architecture, historical sites, and beautiful gardens.
• Mdina – The ancient capital of Malta, with narrow streets, medieval architecture, and stunning panoramic views.
• Gozo – Malta’s smaller island, known for its relaxed atmosphere, historic temples, and beautiful beaches.
• Comino – A small island famous for the Blue Lagoon, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and boat trips.
• Azure Window – A natural limestone arch and one of Malta’s most iconic landmarks (until its collapse in 2017).

Top Cities & Towns

• Valletta – A UNESCO World Heritage city known for its historical sites, palaces, and stunning architecture.
• Mdina – A medieval city with a rich history, known for its charming streets and quiet atmosphere.
• Rabat – Located near Mdina, with important historical sites like the St. Paul’s Catacombs and Domus Romana.
• Sliema – A coastal town with a lively promenade, perfect for shopping, dining, and enjoying the waterfront.
• Victoria – The capital of Gozo, home to Citadella, an impressive fortified city with sweeping views of the island.

Nature & Outdoor Adventure

• Gozo – Enjoy the natural beauty of Malta’s sister island, with its beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and Ggantija Temples.
• Comino – Visit the Blue Lagoon for some of the clearest water and most scenic views on the island.
• Ramla Bay – A beautiful red-sand beach in Gozo, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
• Golden Bay – A sandy beach on Malta’s western coast, ideal for swimming and water sports.
• Dingli Cliffs – Offering dramatic views of the Mediterranean Sea, this natural landscape is perfect for hiking and photography.

Historical & Cultural Sites

• St. John’s Co-Cathedral – A Baroque masterpiece in Valletta, known for its stunning interior and Caravaggio paintings.
• Ggantija Temples – Neolithic temples on Gozo, older than the pyramids and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Mdina Dungeons – A historical museum offering a glimpse into Malta’s medieval past.
• Fort Saint Elmo – A fortress in Valletta, with a museum dedicated to Malta’s military history.
• War Museum – Located in Floriana, this museum highlights Malta’s role in WWII and its strategic military importance.

Unique Experiences

• Visit the Blue Lagoon on Comino – Swim or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the famous Blue Lagoon.
• Explore the Ggantija Temples – Visit the ancient temples in Gozo, older than the Pyramids of Egypt, for a truly unique historical experience.
• Tour the Citadella in Victoria – Explore the fortified city at the heart of Gozo, offering panoramic views and historical sites.
• Take a Boat Trip to the Blue Grotto – Visit the stunning sea caves on the southern coast of Malta, known for their vibrant blue waters.
• Relax at Golden Bay – Spend the day on one of Malta’s most popular sandy beaches, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

In the capital, Valletta, visitors can wander through the narrow, golden-stone streets of Europe’s smallest capital, exploring grand Baroque landmarks like St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the imposing Grandmaster’s Palace. The city’s hilltop setting offers spectacular views over the Grand Harbour, best enjoyed from the serene Upper Barrakka Gardens. Just a short ferry ride away, the fortified Three Cities, Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua, offer a quieter, equally historic escape with picturesque harbors and centuries-old palaces.

Beyond the capital, Malta’s landscapes and archaeological sites reveal its rich past and natural beauty. The island is home to some of the world’s oldest free-standing structures, including the UNESCO-listed Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra temples, which predate the pyramids of Egypt. The medieval city of Mdina, known as the “Silent City,” enchants visitors with its timeless atmosphere and stunning views. Along the coast, the dramatic cliffs of Dingli, the vibrant waters of the Blue Grotto, and the golden sands of Golden Bay offer incredible seaside experiences. Just offshore, the island of Gozo provides a more rural escape, with the ancient Ggantija Temples and the stunning blue waters of Ramla Bay.

• Scuba Diving: Malta is considered one of the top diving destinations in Europe, with crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and numerous shipwrecks. Popular dive sites include the Blue Hole in Gozo, the wreck of the HMS Maori, and the caves around Comino.
• Motorcycle Touring: Malta’s relatively small size and scenic routes make it a great place for motorcycle touring. Riders can explore the picturesque coastal roads, narrow streets of historic towns, and the peaceful countryside of Gozo and Comino.
• Nightlife & Partying: Malta has a vibrant nightlife scene, particularly in areas like Paceville, St. Julian’s, and Sliema. The nightlife caters to a variety of tastes, with numerous bars, nightclubs, and beach clubs that stay open until the early hours.
• Rock Climbing: The rocky landscapes of Malta and Gozo offer fantastic opportunities for rock climbing. Popular spots include the cliffs at Ras il-Hobz and the inland sea in Gozo, which provide routes with views of the Mediterranean.
• Bicycle Touring: Malta offers excellent cycling routes, especially on the island of Gozo, where the terrain is more rugged and scenic. Whether you’re cycling through the countryside or along the coast, Malta’s bike paths provide some memorable experiences.
• Golfing: Malta has a couple of golf courses, with the Royal Malta Golf Club in Marsa being the most well-known. While the island isn’t a golf destination per se, these courses offer a pleasant environment for a round of golf with views of the Mediterranean.
• Shopping: Malta offers a range of shopping experiences, from high-end fashion boutiques in Valletta and Sliema to traditional markets where you can buy local crafts, lace, and jewelry. The bustling city center of Valletta is great for shopping.
• Trekking: Malta offers numerous trekking opportunities, especially along its coastal cliffs and through the countryside of Gozo. Hiking to the top of Dingli Cliffs or exploring the trails around the Malta National Park offers stunning views of the islands and the sea.
• Mountain Biking: The rugged terrain of Gozo and the countryside of Malta make for great mountain biking. Visitors can explore off-road trails, particularly in areas like the rural village of Xaghra in Gozo or along the cliffs of Dingli.
• White Water Rafting: Malta’s small rivers and lack of fast-flowing waters make it an unsuitable location for white-water rafting. However, the surrounding seas provide opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing.
• Wind Surfing: The coastal winds of Malta make it a prime destination for windsurfing, especially around the beaches of St. Paul’s Bay and Mellieha Bay. The consistent winds and clear waters offer perfect conditions for windsurfing.

Cultural Experiences

Malta has a rich cultural history, with influences from the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and the Knights of St. John. The island’s historic towns, temples, and fortresses are a testament to its complex past, and visitors can explore a wide range of cultural sites.

• Exploring Valletta’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Valletta, the capital city of Malta, is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with historic buildings, palaces, and churches. Key landmarks include St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Grand Master’s Palace, and the National Museum of Archaeology.
• Visiting the Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni: This ancient underground temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, dates back to 4000 BC and offers a unique look into Malta’s prehistoric period. It’s one of the best-preserved examples of a subterranean temple in the world.
• Touring Mdina, the Silent City: Mdina is a fortified medieval town that once served as the capital of Malta. Known as the Silent City, Mdina features narrow streets, historic buildings, and magnificent views of the island from its bastions.
• Visiting the Malta Maritime Museum in Vittoriosa: Malta’s maritime history is deeply intertwined with the Knights of St. John and the island’s strategic location. The Malta Maritime Museum in Vittoriosa offers exhibits on the country’s naval history, from ancient times to World War II.
• Exploring the Tarxien Temples: The Tarxien Temples are a group of megalithic structures dating back to around 3000 BC. These temples are among the most important prehistoric sites in Malta and provide insight into the island’s early civilization.

Natural Experiences

Malta offers an incredible mix of landscapes, from its rugged cliffs and rocky coastline to its serene beaches and crystal-clear waters. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do, whether it’s hiking, exploring caves, or enjoying water activities.

• Relaxing at Blue Lagoon on Comino Island: The Blue Lagoon is one of the most famous spots in Malta, known for its turquoise waters and white sandy shores. Visitors can swim, snorkel, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Comino Island.
• Hiking the Dingli Cliffs: The Dingli Cliffs offer some of the most stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Hikers can enjoy walking along the cliffside paths while taking in the panoramic views of the islands and coastline.
• Exploring the Għar Dalam Cave: Għar Dalam is a prehistoric cave that contains important archaeological sites dating back over 7,000 years. It’s a fascinating site for nature lovers and history buffs.
• Visiting the Ġnejna Bay: Ġnejna Bay is a serene beach with golden sand and clear waters, ideal for swimming and relaxing. It is less crowded than other beaches, making it perfect for a peaceful day by the sea.
• Exploring the Maltese Countryside: Malta’s countryside is dotted with small villages, rolling hills, and quiet coastal paths. Exploring areas like Rabat, Gozo, or the rural village of Marsaxlokk offers visitors a chance to experience the island’s natural beauty and rural charm.

Urban Experiences

Malta’s urban areas are a blend of modern conveniences and historical charm. Cities like Valletta and Sliema offer a mix of cultural attractions, shopping, and dining, while towns like Mdina and Rabat showcase the island’s rich history.

• Wandering Around Valletta’s Streets: Valletta is a beautiful city that is home to stunning baroque architecture, historic sites, and modern shops. Visitors can explore the bustling Republic Street, the Upper Barracca Gardens, and the picturesque streets of the city center.
• Shopping in Sliema and St. Julian’s: Sliema and St. Julian’s are popular shopping destinations, with large malls, designer boutiques, and local markets. The areas also offer plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars with scenic views of the Mediterranean.
• Visiting the Upper Barracca Gardens: Located in Valletta, the Upper Barracca Gardens offer stunning views of the Grand Harbour and are a peaceful spot to relax in the city.
• Exploring the Waterfront in Vittoriosa: Vittoriosa is one of the Three Cities and offers a mix of historic sites and modern waterfront attractions. Visitors can stroll along the marina, dine in waterfront restaurants, and explore the historical buildings.
• Discovering the Malta National Aquarium: Located in Qawra, the Malta National Aquarium showcases marine life from the Mediterranean Sea and beyond. It’s a fun, family-friendly destination for learning about the island’s marine biodiversity.

Unique Experiences

Malta’s combination of cultures and landscapes makes it a destination for unique experiences that can’t be found elsewhere. These activities showcase the island’s distinct character and charm.

• Staying in a Traditional Maltese House: Experience life in Malta by staying in a traditional limestone house in a village or town. Many of these historic homes have been carefully restored and offer a glimpse into local living.
• Taking a Boat Tour Around the Islands: A boat tour is a great way to explore Malta’s beautiful coastline and nearby islands like Gozo and Comino. Visitors can discover hidden caves, pristine beaches, and secluded coves, often with a guide who shares local history and stories.
• Visiting the Malta Aviation Museum: Malta has a fascinating aviation history, especially during World War II. The Malta Aviation Museum in Ta’ Qali showcases a collection of aircraft and aviation artifacts, offering insight into the country’s role in aerial warfare.
• Exploring the Cittadella in Gozo: The Cittadella in Gozo is a fortified city offering incredible views of the island. Visitors can walk along the ancient walls, explore the archaeological sites, and take in the stunning panoramic vistas.
• Touring the Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua, known as the Three Cities, offer a glimpse into Malta’s history. These fortified cities are home to narrow streets, charming houses, and significant historical sites from the medieval and Renaissance periods.

Weird and Wonderful

Malta’s quirky and offbeat attractions add to the charm of this Mediterranean gem. From quirky museums to strange traditions, these unusual experiences offer a fun and unique side to Malta.

• The Malta Toy Museum: Located in Valletta, the Malta Toy Museum is a quirky collection of toys from different eras. Visitors can see everything from vintage dolls to old-fashioned board games, offering a fun, nostalgic experience.
• Visiting the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum: The Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum is a subterranean structure that dates back to 4000 BC. It’s one of the oldest and most mysterious sites on the island, offering an eerie and unique historical experience.
• The Malta Knights Festival: Held annually, this festival brings Malta’s medieval past to life with knights, battle reenactments, and traditional festivities. It’s a wonderful way to experience Malta’s connection to the Knights of St. John.
• The Malta Chocolate Festival: The Malta Chocolate Festival is a sweet treat for visitors who love all things

Malta is a small island nation, making it easy to get around and explore its historic towns, beautiful beaches, and charming streets. Buses, taxis and rental cars are available for ground-transfers to your holiday destination. The public bus service on Malta and Gozo is a convenient way of getting around, although renting a car is also a good option. A regular ferry service links Malta and Gozo, taking about 20 minutes.

Public buses are the most popular form of transport, while taxis and ride-sharing services like Bolt provide convenient and flexible options. Car rentals are also a great way to explore the island at your own pace, particularly if you want to visit more remote beaches and villages. Ferries are essential for traveling between Malta and nearby islands like Gozo and Comino.

Train

Malta does not have a train network. The country’s small size and relatively compact urban areas make trains unnecessary, and buses, taxis, and car rentals are the preferred modes of transport for locals and tourists alike.

• Trains are not available, but buses are widely used for both local and intercity travel.

For local travel and intercity trips, buses are the best option in Malta.

Bus

Buses are the most affordable and common method of transport in Malta. The Malta Public Transport system operates a network of buses that connect all major towns and tourist areas across the islands.

• Valletta to Sliema (10 minutes): A bus service connecting the capital, Valletta, to the popular shopping and entertainment district of Sliema.
• Valletta to Mdina (25 minutes): A bus route to the Silent City, famous for its medieval architecture and panoramic views.
• St. Julian’s to Marsaxlokk (30 minutes): A bus route to Marsaxlokk, a fishing village known for its traditional boats and seafood market.

Buses are frequent, reliable, and inexpensive, providing great coverage across the island. During the high season, buses can be crowded, so it’s best to check the schedule in advance.

Car Rental

Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Malta at your own pace. While driving in Malta can be challenging due to narrow streets, heavy traffic in urban areas, and limited parking, renting a car offers the flexibility to visit more remote areas and hidden beaches.

• Renting a car in Valletta gives you easy access to popular spots like Golden Bay, Popeye Village, and Blue Grotto.
• Driving along the coastal roads of Malta allows you to visit picturesque fishing villages, such as Marsaxlokk, or more secluded beaches like Għajn Tuffieħa.

Car rentals provide flexibility for tourists who want to explore beyond the cities, but city driving can be stressful. Parking in areas like Valletta or Sliema can be difficult, so it’s worth checking ahead for parking availability.

Ride Share

Ride-sharing services like Bolt are available in Malta, offering a convenient and affordable way to get around, especially if you’re traveling with luggage or in peak hours.

• Bolt operates in Valletta, Sliema, St. Julian’s, and other major areas of the island, providing a cost-effective alternative to taxis.

Ride-sharing is ideal for short trips within urban areas, particularly if you need a quick ride or don’t want to deal with public transport.

Ferries

Ferries are a key part of getting around Malta, especially for traveling to Gozo or Comino. Several ferry services operate between Malta and these islands, offering scenic and reliable transportation across the Mediterranean.

• Malta to Gozo (25 minutes): A regular ferry service connects the main island of Malta to Gozo, famous for its rural charm and Azure Window.
• Malta to Comino (15 minutes): A ferry to Comino, an island known for its Blue Lagoon and pristine beaches.

Ferries are an essential part of island-hopping in Malta, and booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons.

Air

Flying is typically not necessary for domestic travel within Malta due to its small size. However, Malta International Airport is the primary gateway for international flights, offering connections to Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.

• Malta to London (3 hours): A popular flight route connecting the island to the United Kingdom.
• Malta to Rome (1.5 hours): A quick flight to the Italian capital, ideal for tourists wishing to explore both countries.

Flying is the best option for international connections, but buses and car rentals are more common for domestic travel.

Taxis

Taxis are readily available in Valletta, Sliema, St. Julian’s, and other main towns. They are metered and can be a convenient option for short trips or airport transfers.

• Taxis in Valletta can be hailed on the street or booked via phone or app.
• Taxis in St. Julian’s are also available at major hotels and restaurants.

Taxis are more expensive than buses or ride-sharing services, but they are a convenient option for quick travel within urban areas.

Public Transport in Cities

Public transport in Malta is primarily provided by buses. The Malta Public Transport system operates frequent services throughout the day, connecting towns, beaches, and tourist attractions.

• Valletta to Sliema (10 minutes): A bus route connecting the capital to the main shopping district in Sliema.
• Valletta to Mdina (25 minutes): A bus to the ancient city of Mdina, with its narrow streets and stunning views.

Public transport is inexpensive and widely available, but buses can be crowded during peak hours, and limited service is available during the evening or on weekends.

A visit to Malta is usually trouble-free; however, there are the habitual chancers found in all tourist destinations. Be wise and always keep one eye on your valuables and the other on the scenery. If you find yourself feeling under the weather, there are pharmacies and hospitals which provide good service, although be sure to take your phrase book with you to avoid any communication faux pas, which could end up with you receiving unwanted and unnecessary treatment. While this could be amusing to many, you could find that the treatment burns a large whole in your wallet and who knows where else!

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing or bag snatching, can occur, particularly in crowded tourist areas like Valletta, St. Julian’s, and the popular beaches, but it is relatively rare. Violent crime is uncommon, and Malta is considered one of the safest places in the Mediterranean. Nonetheless, travelers should take basic precautions, especially in busy areas or when out late at night.

Health risks in Malta are minimal, with high sanitation standards and excellent healthcare services. Tap water is safe to drink throughout the country, though some visitors may prefer bottled water. Foodborne illnesses are rare due to high food hygiene standards, but travelers should still exercise caution with street food or food from unregulated establishments. Malta’s healthcare system is very good, with modern medical facilities available in major cities like Valletta and Sliema. For remote areas, medical facilities can be limited, so it is recommended to have travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage.

Scams & Petty Crime: Petty theft, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occasionally occur in crowded tourist spots, particularly in areas like Valletta’s historical center or around popular beaches. These incidents are relatively rare but travelers should secure valuables and remain vigilant in busy places.

Political Unrest: Malta is politically stable, with no significant risks of political unrest or violence affecting tourists. Protests and demonstrations are infrequent and usually peaceful. The country has a strong democratic system, and travelers can enjoy their visit without concerns about political disturbances.

Diseases: Malta has low disease risks. Foodborne illnesses are uncommon, thanks to high food hygiene standards. Tap water is safe to drink throughout the country, but some visitors may prefer bottled water, especially if staying in rural or less-developed areas. The risk of mosquito-borne diseases is minimal, though travelers should take basic precautions during the summer months if spending time outdoors in rural areas.

Health Facilities: Malta’s healthcare system is excellent, with modern hospitals and clinics available in the capital, Valletta, and other urban areas like Sliema and St. Julian’s. Rural healthcare options may be more limited, so travelers should have travel insurance with medical coverage. Serious medical conditions may require evacuation to neighboring countries, such as Italy.

Road Conditions: Roads in Malta are well-maintained, though they can be narrow, especially in older, historical areas. Driving is on the left side of the road, and the island’s busy tourist areas can have heavy traffic, particularly in the summer months. Public transport is reliable, with buses and ferries offering easy access to most locations. However, renting a car or using taxis is popular for tourists exploring more remote areas.

Food & Water: Tap water is safe to drink throughout Malta, and food hygiene is excellent. Street food is widely available, especially in tourist areas, and is generally safe to eat when purchased from busy, reputable vendors. As always, eating freshly prepared food at well-reviewed establishments can help reduce the risk of foodborne illness.

Nature’s Fury: Malta is not prone to major natural disasters. However, the country can experience heavy rain and occasional flooding during the winter months, though these events are not typically severe. The risk of earthquakes is low, but Malta is located in a region with seismic activity. Travelers should stay informed about weather conditions, particularly during the stormy season.

Despite its small size, Malta boasts a diverse culture, heavily influenced by its Mediterranean surroundings and its history of colonization and conquest. The island is known for its fortified cities, baroque architecture, and ancient temples, making it an ideal destination for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and beachgoers alike.

Food

Malta’s cuisine is a flavorful blend of Mediterranean and North African influences, with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood, vegetables, olive oil, and herbs. Local dishes often feature rabbit, lamb, and pasta, while the island’s proximity to Italy also makes pizza and pasta popular choices. Malta’s food reflects its varied history, with influences from British, Italian, and Arab culinary traditions.

Language

The official languages of Malta are Maltese and English. Maltese is a unique Semitic language derived from Arabic, with strong influences from Italian, English, and French. English is widely spoken throughout the country and is used in business, government, and education, making it easy for English-speaking visitors to get around. Maltese remains the national language and is spoken by the majority of the population in everyday life.

History

Malta’s history is marked by its strategic location, making it a significant player in Mediterranean affairs for thousands of years. The island was first inhabited by the Phoenicians in the 8th century BC, followed by Roman and Arab rule. In the 11th century, Malta became part of the Norman Kingdom of Sicily before being governed by the Knights of St. John, who built the fortified city of Valletta and shaped much of the island’s modern identity.

Malta was a British colony from the early 19th century until it gained independence in 1964. The country joined the European Union in 2004 and has since seen significant growth in tourism, finance, and technology. Today, Malta is known for its rich cultural heritage, well-preserved historical sites, and beautiful landscapes, attracting millions of visitors each year.