Valletta 2 weeks

Arrive at Malta International Airport (MLA) and take a taxi or bus to your accommodation in Valletta. The Valletta Waterfront is a scenic area with historical warehouses converted into shops and restaurants, offering a pleasant introduction to the city.

Enjoy panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities from these beautifully landscaped gardens. It's a perfect spot to orient yourself and appreciate Valletta's strategic maritime location.

• Arrive before noon to witness the daily cannon firing ceremony.
• Adjacent to the gardens is the lift down to the waterfront.

Witness the firing of cannons at noon and 4 PM, a tradition that has continued for centuries. It offers a historical reenactment and stunning harbor views.

• Book tickets online in advance, especially during peak season.
• Combine with a visit to the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

This seemingly austere exterior hides one of the most opulent Baroque interiors in the world, housing Caravaggio's masterpiece, 'The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist'. The marble floors are inlaid with the tombs of the Knights of St. John.

• Dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered.
• Audio guides are highly recommended for full appreciation.
• Note: The cathedral typically closes around 5:30 PM, so plan accordingly.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll down Valletta's main thoroughfare, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's the perfect place to soak in the evening atmosphere and find a dinner spot.

Explore the former palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of St. John and later the seat of the Maltese Parliament. The State Rooms and the Armoury are particularly impressive.

• Check opening times as parts of the palace can be used for official functions.
• The Armoury houses a vast collection of arms and armor from the Knights' era.

Discover Malta's prehistoric and Phoenician periods through a collection of artifacts, including the enigmatic 'Sleeping Lady' figurine and the Tarxien Temples' altars. It provides crucial context for the island's ancient history.

• Allow ample time to absorb the extensive displays.
• Located conveniently near the Grand Master's Palace.

Visit this privately owned 16th-century palace, still inhabited by the de Piro family. It offers an intimate glimpse into noble Maltese life, with tours led by family members showcasing antique furniture, art, and historical artifacts.

• Tours are scheduled, so check the times upon arrival.
• The adjoining restaurant offers a charming setting for lunch.

Walk along sections of the impressive fortifications that surround Valletta. The bastions offer unique perspectives of the city and the surrounding sea.

• Explore the area around Fort St. Elmo for impressive ramparts.
• Best enjoyed at sunset for a romantic atmosphere.

This star-shaped fortress guards the entrance to the Grand Harbour and played a pivotal role in the Great Siege of 1565. The National War Museum within showcases Malta's military history from prehistoric times to modern day, including artifacts from WWII.

• Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking within the fort.
• Allow ample time to explore the extensive exhibits.

Descend into the underground network of tunnels and chambers that served as the British Mediterranean Command Centre during WWII. It's a fascinating glimpse into wartime strategy and operations.

• Tours are often guided and depart at set times.
• The temperature inside is cool, so bring a light jacket.

A 45-minute audio-visual show providing an overview of Malta's rich history, from the Neolithic period to its independence. It's a good way to consolidate historical knowledge gained from site visits.

• Showtimes are frequent throughout the day.
• Located near Fort St. Elmo.

Embark on a guided culinary journey through Valletta, sampling traditional Maltese dishes and local delicacies. This tour offers a delicious way to experience the local culture and flavors.

• Book in advance, as these tours are popular.
• Come hungry and ready to try a variety of foods.

Take a scenic ferry ride across the Grand Harbour. For the Three Cities, opt for the ferry that goes towards Cospicua (Bormla) or take a water taxi from Valletta.

• The ferry offers excellent views of Valletta from the water.

Explore the oldest of the Three Cities, Vittoriosa, which served as the first headquarters of the Knights of St. John. Wander through its narrow streets, visit the Inquisitor's Palace, and admire the historic waterfront.

• Visit Fort St. Angelo for its historical significance and views.
• Enjoy a coffee at one of the waterfront cafes.

Located in Vittoriosa's former naval bakery, this museum showcases Malta's maritime history from prehistoric times to the present day. It features a large collection of models, artifacts, and a historic hull of a 19th-century steam yacht.

Walk or take a short taxi ride to Senglea, known for its distinctive peninsula shape. Climb to the top of Fort Saint Michael for breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour and Valletta.

• Don't miss the 'Gudja', a beautiful garden at the tip of the peninsula.
• The views from the Gardjola Gardens are iconic.

While less tourist-focused, Cospicua's waterfront offers a glimpse of local life. Enjoy dinner at a traditional Maltese restaurant here, or take the ferry back to Valletta.

Take a public bus (e.g., route 51, 52, 53) from Valletta to Mdina. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes.

• Purchase a multi-day bus pass if you plan on using public transport frequently.

Step back in time in the 'Silent City', Malta's ancient capital. Wander through its narrow, winding streets, admire the medieval and Baroque architecture, and enjoy stunning views from the city walls.

• Visit St. Paul's Cathedral, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture.
• The Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum offers a glimpse into noble life.

Enjoy lunch or tea with breathtaking panoramic views of the Maltese countryside from this popular cafe located on the Mdina bastions.

• Famous for its delicious cakes and pastries.
• Can get very busy, especially during peak hours.

Explore the town of Rabat, located just outside Mdina's walls. It's known for its ancient Roman history and early Christian catacombs.

• Visit St. Paul's Catacombs and St. Agatha's Catacombs for a fascinating underground experience.
• The Domvs Romana museum showcases Roman artifacts.

Experience the magical ambiance of Mdina after dark. Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of its few, but exquisite, restaurants within the silent city walls.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner.
• Enjoy the quiet and atmospheric streets after the day-trippers leave.

Take a bus from Valletta to Dingli Cliffs (approx. 45-60 mins). The cliffs offer dramatic coastal scenery and are Malta's highest point.

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the uninhabited island of Filfla from these towering cliffs. It's a popular spot for watching the sunset.

• Walk along the cliff paths for different vantage points.
• There's a small chapel, the Chapel of St. Mary Magdalene, nearby.

Take a short bus ride from Dingli Cliffs to Wied iż-Żurrieq (approx. 15-20 mins). From here, you can access boat trips to the Blue Grotto.

Take a boat trip to the Blue Grotto, a stunning sea cave system renowned for its intense blue waters caused by underwater phosphorescence. The boat tours offer incredible views of the caves and coastline.

• The best time for the blue colors is typically between April and October, from around 10 AM to 1 PM.
• The original Azure Window in Gozo collapsed in 2017, but the Blue Grotto offers similar natural beauty.

Travel to the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk (requires a bus transfer, approx. 30-40 mins from Blue Grotto). Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants lining the harbor, famous for its colorful traditional 'luzzu' boats.

• Sunday mornings are best for the vibrant fish market, but can be crowded.
• Try Lampuki pie (dorado fish pie) if in season (autumn).

Take a bus back to Valletta from Marsaxlokk (approx. 40-50 mins).

Take a bus from Valletta to Cirkewwa ferry terminal (approx. 1 hour). Board the Gozo Channel ferry to Mgarr, Gozo (approx. 30 mins).

• The ferry ticket includes the return journey.

Explore the capital of Gozo, Victoria. Visit the imposing Cittadella, a fortified medieval city offering panoramic views and housing several museums.

• The Gozo Museum of Archaeology and the Nature Museum are within the Cittadella.
• Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Victoria's main square.

Visit the site of the former Azure Window. While the iconic arch has collapsed, the area still offers dramatic coastal scenery, the Inland Sea, and the Fungus Rock. Boat trips through the sea cave are available.

• Consider a boat trip through the cave at the Inland Sea.
• It's a popular spot for diving.

A picturesque fishing village nestled in a narrow bay, Xlendi is perfect for a relaxing stop. Enjoy the coastal views and perhaps a refreshing drink.

Visit Ramla Bay, known for its unique red-orange sand and clear waters. It's a beautiful spot for a late afternoon stroll or a refreshing dip.

• The Calypso Cave nearby is said to be the cave of the nymph Calypso in Homer's Odyssey.

Take the ferry from Mgarr, Gozo back to Cirkewwa, Malta, and then a bus back to Valletta.

Discover Maltese art from the medieval period to the present day at Malta's national art museum. It's housed in the historic Auberge d'Italie, a stunning example of Baroque architecture.

• MUŻA stands for 'Malta's Urban Art Museum'.
• The building itself is a significant historical monument.

Experience a slice of local life at the covered market. Find fresh produce, local crafts, souvenirs, and enjoy a casual lunch from one of the small eateries.

• Great place to try pastizzi, a traditional Maltese savory pastry.
• Check opening hours, typically morning to early afternoon.

Visit this beautifully decorated oratory, known for its rich Baroque artwork and sculptures. It offers a quieter, more intimate religious art experience compared to the Co-Cathedral.

Explore this space showcasing contemporary Maltese design, crafts, and artisanal products. It's a great place to find unique souvenirs and appreciate modern creativity.

• Check for any temporary exhibitions or workshops.
• Located within the historic city center.

Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and diverse dining options on Strait Street (Strada Stretta), once a notorious street and now revitalized with bars and restaurants offering various cuisines.

• This area is lively, especially on weekends.
• Offers a good mix of traditional Maltese and international food.

Take a bus from Valletta to the coastal town of Marsaskala (approx. 30-40 mins). This is a less touristy area with a lovely bay.

Located near Marsaskala, St. Thomas Bay offers a sandy beach area and rocky coves. It's a good spot for swimming and sunbathing in a more local setting.

• There are some small cafes and snack bars nearby.
• Can be a bit rocky, so water shoes might be useful.

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at one of the many restaurants lining the Marsaskala bay. Fresh fish and local specialties are readily available.

• The promenade is ideal for a post-lunch stroll.

Take a short bus ride from Marsaskala to Pretty Bay in Birzebbuga (approx. 15-20 mins).

This sandy bay is popular with locals and offers a pleasant swimming and sunbathing spot. It's situated near Malta's only power station, but the beach itself is clean and well-maintained.

• There are amenities like sunbed rentals and cafes.
• Good for families.

Take a bus from Birzebbuga back to Valletta (approx. 40-50 mins).

Take a bus from Valletta to the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples (approx. 45-60 mins).

Explore these remarkably preserved megalithic temples, dating back over 5,000 years. They offer a profound connection to Malta's earliest inhabitants and are situated with stunning sea views.

• The visitor center provides excellent context and information.
• Temples are covered by protective tents to preserve them.

There is a cafe at the visitor center of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra offering light meals and refreshments with views of the surrounding landscape and sea.

Take a bus from the vicinity of Hagar Qim/Mnajdra towards Tarxien Temples (requires a transfer, approx. 1 hour).

These temples are unique for their intricate stone carvings, including spiral patterns and animal reliefs. They offer a different perspective on the sophistication of Malta's prehistoric builders.

• These temples are located within a modern residential area, offering a contrast.
• The artifacts found here are largely housed in the National Museum of Archaeology.

Take a bus from Tarxien back to Valletta (approx. 20-30 mins).

Take a boat trip from various points (e.g., Sliema, Bugibba, or Cirkewwa) to the island of Comino. Many tours include stops at the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon.

• Book in advance, especially during peak season.
• Consider a tour that allows ample time for swimming and snorkeling.

Swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear, turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon. This is one of Malta's most famous and beautiful spots, known for its shallow, warm waters.

• Arrive early to secure a good spot on the shore, as it gets very crowded.
• Bring your own snorkeling gear for the best experience.

Often visited on the same trip as the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon offers stunningly clear waters and is popular for snorkeling and diving. It's a bit more secluded than the Blue Lagoon.

• Some boat tours anchor here for swimming.
• Great for spotting marine life.

Return by boat to your departure point, then take a bus back to Valletta.

Located within the Valletta Bastions, this center offers an in-depth look at the history and engineering of the city's formidable defenses. Interactive exhibits make it engaging.

• Provides excellent context for the city's architecture.
• Offers access to parts of the fortifications not usually seen.

A serene garden offering a different perspective of the Grand Harbour, featuring the Victorian-era 'Siege Bell' monument and a classical temple.

• Quieter than the Upper Barrakka Gardens.
• Nice spot for a peaceful moment.

Explore Maltese traditions, crafts, and daily life through exhibits on folklore, religion, and domestic practices. It offers insight into the cultural heritage of the islanders.

• Located in a historic building in Valletta.
• Provides a contrast to the military and art museums.

Enjoy a relaxed walk along the waterfront, browsing the shops housed in the restored 18th-century boathouses, and perhaps enjoy a coffee or gelato.

• Offers views of cruise ships and the Grand Harbour.
• Good for some souvenir shopping.

Dine at a restaurant offering views of the Grand Harbour or the illuminated city. Many rooftop restaurants provide a memorable dining experience.

• Reservations are essential for restaurants with prime views.
• Consider booking for sunset.

Take a bus from Valletta to Mosta (approx. 30-40 mins).

Visit the iconic Mosta Dome, famous for its massive unsupported dome. During WWII, a bomb miraculously fell through the dome during Mass but did not detonate, an event seen as a miracle.

• There is a small museum that explains the wartime incident.
• The interior is impressive, but the dome itself is the main attraction.

Enjoy lunch at a local eatery in Mosta, experiencing authentic Maltese cuisine.

Take a bus from Mosta to Mellieha (approx. 30-40 mins).

Relax at Malta's largest sandy beach, Mellieha Bay (also known as Ghadira Bay). Nearby is the Ghadira Nature Reserve, a vital wetland for migratory birds.

• The beach is shallow and ideal for swimming.
• The nature reserve offers walking trails and birdwatching opportunities.

Take a bus from Mellieha back to Valletta (approx. 1 hour).

Enjoy some final souvenir shopping in Valletta's charming streets or local craft shops.

Have a final Maltese meal at a restaurant of your choice in Valletta, perhaps revisiting a favorite or trying a new spot.

Take a taxi or pre-booked transfer to Malta International Airport for your departure.

• Allow ample time for travel and airport procedures.