Despite its small size of just 316 square kilometres (122 square miles), Malta's landscapes have witnessed the rise and fall of civilizations for over 7,000 years. Malta boasts some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world, including the Ġgantija temples on the island of Gozo, which are older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. Six islands comprise the archipelago of Malta but only three are inhabited. The islands themselves are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to their historical and cultural significance.
Though small in size, Malta boasts a resilient cultural identity, steadfastly preserving its unique language and traditions. Malta's strategic location in the Mediterranean has made it a coveted prize throughout history.
The islands have been ruled by various powers, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Knights of St. John, and the British Empire, each leaving their mark on the island's architecture, culture, and traditions.
The Maltese people predominantly speak Malti, a language closely linked to Arabic roots, while English serves as the second official language.
Despite its ancient roots, Malta is a vibrant hub of modernity, with bustling cities like Valletta and Sliema offering trendy cafes, boutique shops, and a lively nightlife scene.
The Maltese Islands are compact and relatively easy to explore either independently in a rental car, on public transport or by an organised tour. Known for stunning landscapes and well-preserved historic sites, Malta has served as a backdrop for numerous film and television productions, including “Gladiator," "Troy," and "Game of Thrones”.
Sliema Church, Malta © Shutterstock
There are plenty of fantastic things to do and experience in Malta. This country is known for stunning landscapes, vibrant festivals, and crystal clear waters, great for diving and snorkelling.
With over 300 days of sunshine a year, Malta boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the Mediterranean. Whether you're into lounging on soft sands or getting your adrenaline fix with cliff jumping, there's a beach for everyone. Don't miss spots like Sliema, St Julian’s, and Paceville for classic beach days, or venture south to Delimara and Peter’s Pool for some off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Step back in time and explore Malta's ancient past at the Neolithic temples. UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra Temples are remarkable examples of prehistoric architecture, dating back thousands of years. These ancient structures predate the Egyptian pyramids and are among the oldest freestanding monuments in the world.
While in Malta, you'll want to discover the charm of its historic capital, Mdina. Often referred to as the ‘Silent City’ Mdina was once the refuge of nobility and boasts a rich history dating back over 4,000 years. This is a great place to step back in time and explore narrow streets, medieval alleys and well-preserved architecture that dates back centuries.
Malta, Comino, Blue Lagoon © Shutterstock
Alta is home to a network of catacomb complexes, including the UNESCO-listed Hypogeum of Hal-Saflieni, which dates back over 5,000 years and is one of the world's oldest underground burial sites.
Explore these fascinating subterranean chambers to uncover Malta's ancient mysteries. The Hypogeum is not just a burial site, it also serves as a sanctuary and a place of worship for the ancient inhabitants of Malta.
Malta is known for its traditional handicrafts, including intricate lacework known as 'bizzilla' and beautiful filigree jewellery crafted by skilled artisans. Maltese lace-making dates back to the 16th century and was once considered a prestigious skill among noblewomen. Swing by local markets and workshops to snag one-of-a-kind souvenirs and support the local craft scene.
Malta is a paradise for wreck diving enthusiasts, with over 50 dive sites scattered around its coastline. El Foroud is located off the coast of Malta, near the islands of Comino and Gozo.
The wreck lies at a depth of around 30 meters (100 feet) and is easily accessible from various dive centres around the islands. The wreck of El Foroud has become a thriving ecosystem, teeming with an impressive array of marine life, and boasts visibility often exceeding 40 meters (130 feet).
Lapsi is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, making it a paradise for snorkeling enthusiasts. The underwater caves and rock formations at Ghar Lapsi are home to a diverse array of marine species, including colorful fish, octopuses, and even the occasional sea turtle.
Cave in Gozo, Malta © Shutterstock
Take a tour of the Grand Harbour or a day cruise around the island with time for swimming and snorkelling. You can choose a state-of-the-art catamaran, a miniature cruise ship, a Turkish gulet, or a gaff-rigged schooner. The Grand Harbour is lined with architectural gems from the imposing walls of Valletta's bastions to the elegant facades of historic palaces and churches.
Marvel at the opulent beauty of St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, a masterpiece of Baroque art and architecture. IT was built between 1572 and 1577 by the Knights of St. John..The cathedral is home to Caravaggio's iconic painting, 'The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist,' which is considered one of the artist's masterpieces.
The interior is a symphony of marble, gilding, and intricate carvings, with every surface adorned with exquisite decorations. The vaulted ceiling is adorned with richly painted frescoes depicting scenes from the life of St. John the Baptist, while the marble floor is a masterpiece in its own right, featuring over 400 intricately carved tombstones of the Knights of St. John.
Step into the whimsical world of Popeye Village, a charming seaside village that was built as a film set for the 1980 musical film "Popeye." The village was originally constructed from scratch in just seven months and has since become a popular tourist attraction, offering fun activities and photo opportunities for visitors of all ages.
St. John Co-Cathedral © Shutterstock
Embark on a hiking adventure to explore Malta's scenic countryside and historic landmarks. Malta boasts over 200 kilometers of hiking trails, ranging from coastal paths to rugged cliffside routes. Follow the watchtowers route to discover olive groves, ancient chapels, and historic defense towers dating back to the 1600s, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Malta has been producing wine for over 2,000 years and is known for its unique indigenous grape varieties, including Girgentina and Ġellewża. The Maltese archipelago's warm climate and limestone-rich soil create ideal conditions for winemaking, resulting in a diverse range of wines with distinctive flavors and aromas. This wines are hard to find outside of Malta, so wine enthusiasts should definitely seek them out while here
Malta is one of the world's smallest countries but boasts a network of cycling paths that crisscross the islands, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and historic landmarks along the way. The Marfa Ridge to Golden Bay route takes cyclists through picturesque villages, sandy beaches, and charming countryside, making it the perfect way to explore Malta's natural beauty at your own pace.
Maltese cuisine is a melting pot of Mediterranean flavors, influenced by its rich history and diverse cultural heritage. Sample traditional dishes like rabbit stew, ġbejna cheese, and ftira bread, paired with local wines and artisanal beers. From cozy family-run eateries to Michelin-starred restaurants, Malta offers a dining experience to suit every palate and budget.
View over the city of Victoria (Rabat) at Gozo, Malta © Shutterstock
The best time to visit the Maltese archipelago is during spring (April to June) or early autumn (September to October). These seasons offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, allowing you to explore the main island of Malta, as well as its sister islands Gozo and Comino, without feeling overwhelmed by tourists.
Spring brings blooming wildflowers and mild temperatures, making it an ideal time to wander through historical sites like Mdina and Valletta on the main island, as well as the charming villages and scenic countryside of Gozo.
In autumn, you can enjoy a more laid-back atmosphere while still experiencing the beauty of the archipelago. Take advantage of the milder weather for activities like hiking, diving, or simply relaxing on the beaches of Malta and Gozo.
If you're drawn to the energy of summer and don't mind the crowds, July and August are also popular times to visit. During these months, the archipelago comes alive with festivals and events.
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written by
Dre Roelandt
updated 24.04.2024
