Take a trip to the enchanting allure of Malta with a trip that blends history, culture, and natural beauty. This will be a journey of a lifetime!
Let’s go to a place where every street feels like a step back in time, where the azure waters are as inviting as the people, and where history and modernity blend seamlessly to create an unforgettable experience. This place is Malta, an island nation that promises an adventure unlike any other.
For me, this collaboration with Visit Malta has been much more than just a lovely destination to travel to—it's a journey deeper into my own heritage—and I was so lucky to go with my mom. My maternal grandmother was Maltese, and growing up, she regularly told me stories of Bormla (also commonly called by its Italian name, ‘Cospicua,’ as is common for many of the cities in the country due to its proximity to Sicily. In fact, my nana would use the names interchangeably!).
However, I’m convinced that Malta will feel like home for everyone who has the opportunity to visit and experience its magic for themselves. This was actually my second trip to this beautiful country, with my first time being last autumn. The charming towns, pristine waterfronts, delicious cuisine, and kind locals who are always eager to help you navigate around add to the Maltese experience that will leave an indelible mark on your travel journals.
So, pack your bags and start the trip of a lifetime!
Personal Connections for a Trip to Malta
As I said, my connection to Malta runs deep, and visiting this island was like stepping into the pages of my family history. The stories I was told my whole life were so vivid to me: The large limestone home that my nana and her siblings grew up in, the bustling docks of Bormla where my great-grandfather worked, the mouth-watering Maltese cuisine, and even the war sirens blaring overhead as my young nana and her family had to take cover in the bomb shelters during World War Two. I spent countless hours leafing through her books filled with images of this enchanting land, imagining what it would be like when I finally would have the opportunity to go and see the small island country for myself. Because of this, when I did go, the trip to Malta felt like coming home.
While I visited local Maltese bakeries back in Toronto and enjoyed treats like pastizzi and timpana (which we started making meat-free, once I became vegetarian), nothing will compare to eating all of Malta’s delicacies in the actual country, and that is made with fresh, local ingredients. Nothing will compare to looking at the magical landscapes and historical sites in person, rather than the pages of a book (or even here, in this article, for that matter). Malta was never just a destination for me; it was a journey into my roots and holds a special place in my heart. It’s a place where I can feel even closer to my nana, now that she’s gone.
Of course, Malta is much more than Bormla and the stories of just one family—and I was eager to see all that it had to offer and learn even more about the country.
Arriving in Malta with KM Malta Airlines
We arrived in Malta in style; flying with KM Malta Airlines offers a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and Maltese hospitality. From the moment you step on board, whether in Economy or Business Class, you’ll experience the airline’s warm, attentive service. Economy passengers enjoy spacious cabins, comfortable leather seats, and a quality buy-on-board menu with fresh, affordable options. For those flying Business Class, the experience is elevated with luxurious seating, extra legroom, and gourmet meals inspired by Maltese cuisine, featuring locally sourced ingredients. The onboard dining experience feels like a celebration of Malta’s rich culture, and the complimentary drinks menu adds an extra touch of indulgence.
KM Malta Airlines also stands out for its commitment to sustainability, using fuel-efficient aircraft and supporting local farmers. Frequent travellers can benefit from the KM Rewards program, which offers perks like seat upgrades and extra baggage allowances. Whether it’s the seamless check-in and boarding process or the genuine hospitality from the crew, KM Malta Airlines ensures a smooth, enjoyable journey. If you’re looking to visit Malta or fly with a carrier that blends luxury with eco-consciousness, KM Malta Airlines provides an unforgettable flying experience that captures the spirit of the Maltese islands from the skies.
Valletta: A Capital of Culture
Valletta, the capital of Malta, is a city that radiates history and charm at every corner, and is where we chose to make our ‘home base’ for this trip (on my first trip, we stayed in Birgu, which I talk about more below).
This UNESCO World Heritage Centre is packed with awe-imspiring Baroque architecture, stunning churches, and historical landmarks that will leave you breathless. With Valletta being the capital, it’s easily accessible from most of the country and, thus, is a great hub for people wanting to travel outside of the city to see other places. However, before you start exploring beyond Valletta, make sure that you see all that it has to offer inside the city walls!
The majestic St. John’s Co-Cathedral houses Caravaggio’s masterpiece, The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist, and its opulent interiors will leave you swooning. You’ll find quaint cafés, bustling markets, and vibrant squares through Valletta's narrow streets. There are incredible attractions to see here, too, like Fort St. Elmo and the National War Museum for those interested in the country’s political past; The National Community Art Museum, MUŻA, for art lovers; the National Museum of Archaeology for visitors who want to dive head-first into Malta’s rich archeological offerings; and even Villa Guardamangia, if you’re keen to see where the then-Princess Elizabeth (the future Queen Elizabeth II) lived for a while with her husband when they stayed in Malta. Valletta is a living museum where history and contemporary culture coexist, making every visit a captivating experience.
To learn about the city's history and see everything at a glance, even if just to get a handle on what you want to explore more in-depth later on, I would recommend taking a train ride tour with Malta Fun Trains. The train operates between 10:00 AM and 4:30 PM, every half hour, and you can buy a ticket from them directly or use your Heritage Malta Multisite Pass to board! Once you’ve soaked in the sights and attractions of Valletta, you can then take the Hop On-Hop Off Malta Bus Tour through City Sightseeing to your next destination. Malta’s public transportation is an option as well, but if you’re heading over to the Three Cities, you can arrive more quickly by taking a quick 10-minute water taxi (essentially a motorized gondola) for €3 per person that departs to Birgu from just beyond the bottom of the Barrakka Lift. Taking this giant elevator instead of walking down the hill is just €1 roundtrip.
An Interlude in Siġġiewi
Visit Malta did not disappoint, planning an evening trip for us to beautiful Siġġiewi to attend Vivaldi: The Four Seasons Recomposed at Verdala Palace. Hosted by Festivals Malta, attending the Three Palaces Festival’s performance was an experience that combined the grandeur of Maltese heritage with the emotional power of live music. Set in the 16th-century Verdala Palace, the intimate venue welcomed just 60 attendees, creating a personal atmosphere amid Baroque splendour, with frescoed ceilings and intricate chandeliers adding a visual depth to the music.
Vivaldi’s iconic Four Seasons was reimagined to offer fresh layers while preserving its timeless spirit, drawing listeners into a vibrant journey through each season. The musicians’ skill brought Vivaldi’s vision to life, capturing each season’s essence with vivid emotions and rhythmic nuances. For those seeking an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and music, the Three Palaces Festival offers the perfect reason to travel to Malta and immerse yourself in an evening of extraordinary artistry.
Afterward, we went to the incredible Michelin Star restaurant Bahia, where we dined in their prestigious property in Balzan, built in the early 1900s; this is a restaurant known for its creative food, attention to detail, and professional yet warm service. All of this takes place in a venue that offers a comfortable and contemporary space, both indoors and outdoors, and a skilled team continues to innovate while respecting high-quality ingredients and Malta’s culinary heritage. Bahia’s dedication to providing the best possible experience earned it a Michelin star in April 2021 (truly no surprise there), after being listed in the first edition of the Michelin Guide in 2020. Accompanying the mouth-watering contemporary cuisine is a selection of impressive wines and beverages—plus, the restaurant updates its menu around three times a year, ensuring a fresh and dynamic dining experience with each dining experience.
Looking to the future, Bahia’s team remains committed to exploring the potential evolution of the restaurant world, guided by their daily experiences and continuous learning from guests. On our particular visit, we explored two different menus: their regular menu and their vegetarian menu; both of us loved our meals and would easily return here in a heartbeat.
The Three Cities: Birgu, Bormla, and L-Isla
Across the Grand Harbour from Valletta lie the Three Cities—Birgu (called ‘Vittoriosa,’ in Italian), Bormla (‘Cospicua,’ in Italian), and L-Isla (‘Senglea,’ in Italian). These fortified cities are a testament to Malta’s rich maritime history and offer a more intimate look into Maltese life. While you can walk through and see the highlights of The Three Cities in a single day, they are best enjoyed over at least two days, focusing on Birgu, as it has the most to see (at least, in my opinion).
If you take the gondola from Valletta, it will drop you off directly in Birgu, known for its picturesque waterfront. Directly to your left as you step off the boat will be The Maritime Museum, a large museum offering insights into Malta’s seafaring past. There are also tons of awesome restaurants here, which I frequented during my first trip to the country. While you’re in Birgu, be sure to also visit the Inquisitor’s Palace (an old prison), a fascinating museum that dives into Malta’s history. A historic-house-meets-national-ethnography-museum built in the 1530s, it has a very interesting past that is well worth exploring. Every inch of this building is amazing, from its courtyard to the tribunal room!
L-Isla, with its stunning gardens and views of the harbour, is perfect for a peaceful stroll. You should stop in town at the Senglea Parish Church (such a pretty interior!) and the Gardjola Gardens, too. There are also lots of restaurants here, with a wide variety of cuisines and dietary options to choose from. As I said, we ate a lot in Birgu on my first trip and then came over to L-Isla for fresh dining experiences and views when we dined outdoors along the harbour.
Last but not least, Bormla, my grandmother’s hometown, is full of charm with its narrow streets and historic buildings. There are plenty of cafés to stop at, small stores dotting the streets, and lovely views of the shipyards from above. Clearly, each of these cities has its own unique character, and together, they provide a deeper understanding of Malta’s heritage.
Marsaxlokk: The Fishing Village
Marsaxlokk is a traditional fishing village that is a short drive from The Three Cities (or Valletta) using a ride-share app. This pretty town will captivate you with its colourful boats, called a dgħajsa or luzzu, bobbing in the harbour. When here, you’ll notice that most of them feature a carved or painted eye of Osiris on their bow. Many luzzijiet (the plural of ‘luzzu’) have this symbol of protection against the evil eye, which is said to have been brought to Malta by the Phoenicians and adopted into local culture.
However, Marsaxlokk is a picturesque village seemingly devoid of any opportunity for the evil eye to strike; it’s the place to go for fresh seafood (if that’s your jam), especially if you visit during the Sunday fish market. Walking along the waterfront, you’ll find numerous restaurants offering the catch of the day, from the popular lampuki (dorado) fish to octopus. Thankfully, for vegetarians like me, some restaurants offer meatless and seafood-less options.
Marsaxlokk is also home to the beautiful St. Peter’s Pool, a natural swimming pool with clear, turquoise waters perfect for a refreshing dip. The village’s laid-back atmosphere and majestic views make it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy Malta’s coastal charm, especially to watch the anglers at work and admire the vibrancy of the town—day or night!
Mdina and Rabat: The Silent City and Its Neighbour
Malta's history is most apparent in Mdina; at 4,000 years old, it’s the oldest in the country! For our time in Mdina, we opted to stay two nights just outside in beautiful Rabat, at My Travel House.
Also known as the Silent City, Mdina is an incredibly preserved medieval town that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle found elsewhere in Europe. Its narrow, winding streets, grand palaces, and impressive cathedral make it a delight to explore. There’s also the Mdina Dungeons Museum, which is not a part of the Heritage Malta single or combo ticket options, but it is worth buying a separate ticket if you’re into that sort of thing. Don’t judge me; I want to see history in all its gruesome details.
While in the city, the views from Mdina’s bastions are breathtaking, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside. As you meander through the picture-perfect streets, exploring churches and chapels, small boutiques, and historical gems, remember to stop at some point for a food break!
Adjacent to Mdina is Rabat, a town rich in history and home to several fascinating sites. If you’re visiting either of these cities, seeing the other should be on the itinerary, too! St. Paul’s Catacombs and the Domus Romana are must-visit attractions that provide insight into Malta’s ancient past. Seriously, if you’re in Rabat, you do not want to miss either of these attractions, as I can guarantee you’ll regret it if you do! Despite not taking up immense amounts of space, there is so much to see in each, and they both offer their own unique and in-depth look at the evolution of Malta as we see it today.
If you find yourself hungry while wandering the streets of Rabat, Bottegin Palazzo Xara is an amazing spot for any meal of the day. Then, of course, there is Grotto Tavern, an incredible restaurant (where you can dine inside of a cave!) worth coming all the way to Rabat just to eat at.
Together, Mdina and Rabat offer a perfect blend of history and architecture, and their beauty makes them essential stops on any trip to Malta. They capture the Maltese essence so well!
Tips for Planning a Trip to Malta
While I can certainly tell you about the importance of packing comfortable shoes (I’m a big fan of Vessis), bringing cute yet multipurpose clothing, capturing unique photos, or even advising you to always scout airlines for the best-priced flights, these tips and tricks are fairly universal when traversing old streets in Europe…or anywhere, really. So, let’s talk about what you should do specifically for your trip to Malta.
For one, I could not recommend the Heritage Malta single or combo tickets, as they offer visitors a massive array of sites and museums nationwide for discounted entry fees (particularly when you buy their combo passes). We used our passes to get into almost every single attraction during our time here, and they’re valid for 30 days from the first use. Talk about convenience!
In terms of getting around the country, I recommend buying tickets for the Hop On-Hop Off Malta and Gozo Bus Tours through City Sightseeing. This tour bus offers two routes, one north and one south, that can be purchased as one- or two-day passes. The bus stops at all the major sites (over 30 stops in Malta and over 15 in Gozo!), and with 13 audio guide languages available, I was able to listen to everything in English. I loved that the pass also came with entry to the harbour boat, which starts from the Sliema Ferry Terminal and heads towards Manoel Island in Marsamxett Harbour. You can hop off at Esplora to explore Kalkara, or just stay on the ferry and do the loop to see Malta from a new perspective on the Sea.
While Malta’s public transportation is relatively easy to navigate, it can take a lot of time to travel far distances and is not always on schedule. Plus, the drivers will fly right past you if you don’t visibly wave them down or, worse yet, if the bus is full (which is common during rush hour, especially Monday through to Friday). In some cases, taking a ride share is your best bet, as is walking whenever you have the chance!
All in All
It’s not a question of why you should take a trip to Malta, but rather, ask yourself: When can I explore this beautiful country and see its magnificence first-hand? This is where history, culture, and natural beauty come together to create an unforgettable adventure. It’s a destination that offers something for everyone, from history enthusiasts and foodies to sun-seekers and adventurers. Malta isn’t just for people tracing their own heritage—it’s for everyone, especially those simply looking for a unique and enriching travel experience.
A trip to Malta promises to be a memorable journey, I promise you that. Pack your bags, book your flight, and get ready to discover the magic of Malta. You’ll return home with stories to tell, memories to cherish, and Malta engrained in your mind.
Che meraviglia. Voglio tornarci!! Ci sono un sacco di attività ed esperienze da fare ... bellissimo
Looks like an amazing trip! You have now convinced me to add Malta to my bucket list 😊 thank you for a wonderful read.