Why Malta Should Top Your Travel Bucket List
Bored with the usual tourist destinations? Looking for a place that will tickle your taste buds, satiate your love for history, and provide postcard-perfect landscapes for your travel journal? Enter Malta. Small in size but abundant in charm and heritage, Malta is the place to be for the seasoned traveller.
Introducing Malta: The Hidden Gem of the Mediterranean
Geographical Overview
Perched between Sicily and the North African coast, Malta is a small archipelago in the central Mediterranean Sea. Its location has endowed it with a unique blend of European and African influences, making it a veritable cultural melting pot.
Malta’s History: A Mosaic of Cultures
Malta’s history is a rich tapestry woven from the threads of various cultures. From the Romans to the Arabs, from the Knights of Saint John to the British, all have left their imprint on this island nation. This shared history is evident in Malta’s architecture, language, and cuisine.
5 Key Takeaways
- Diverse Attractions: Malta offers a rich array of attractions, from its capital city, Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the Hypogeum, an underground prehistoric necropolis. There’s something for every interest, from history to natural beauty.
- Unique Cuisine: Maltese cuisine is a unique blend of Mediterranean flavours, influenced by the island’s varied cultural history. Signature dishes like pastizzi, fenkata (rabbit stew), and lampuki pie offer an exciting gastronomical adventure.
- Outdoor Adventures: Malta is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking landscapes, pristine beaches, and clear blue waters for swimming, diving, and sunbathing. The Blue Lagoon on Comino Island and the site of the Azure Window are among the must-visit locations.
- Cultural Blend: Malta’s cultural heritage is a fascinating mix of various influences from its history, making it a unique destination. The Maltese language, a blend of Semitic roots with Italian influence, and the warm, friendly Maltese people add to the island’s charm.
- Bucket List Destination: Given its diverse offerings, from cultural gems and natural wonders to delicious cuisine, Malta should be a top choice for travellers and deserves a spot on everyone’s travel bucket list.
Unforgettable Maltese Attractions
Valletta: The Capital City
Valletta, Malta’s capital city, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an architectural masterpiece. With its imposing fortifications, ornate baroque buildings, and cobbled streets, Valletta exudes a timeless allure. Must-see attractions include St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Upper Barrakka Gardens, and the Grandmaster’s Palace. Check here for up-to-date ticket prices and detailed information.
The Hypogeum: A Journey into Prehistory
Delve into the depths of Malta’s history by visiting the Hypogeum, a unique underground necropolis dating back to around 3300 BC. It’s a fascinating testament to the island’s ancient civilization and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. More details and ticket information are available here.
Mdina: The Silent City
The old capital of Malta, Mdina, is a fortified city perched high on a hill. With its maze-like streets, grand palaces, and stunning views, Mdina offers a tranquil escape from the bustling modern world.
Maltese Cuisine: A Gastronomical Adventure
Signature Dishes to Try
Maltese cuisine is a gastronomic delight. Indulge in pastizzi, a flaky pastry filled with ricotta or peas, or sample the traditional rabbit stew, fenkata. For the adventurous foodie, lampuki pie – a traditional fish dish – is a must-try.
Here’s a list of must-try Maltese foods:
Pastizzi: These are flaky pastries filled with either ricotta cheese or mushy peas and are a popular snack in Malta.
Rabbit Stew (Stuffat tal-Fenek): This is one of the traditional dishes of Malta, made with marinated rabbit cooked slowly in a rich tomato-based sauce.
Ftira: It’s a traditional Maltese bread that is similar to a pizza, topped with various ingredients such as tomatoes, onions, olives, and anchovies.
Bragioli: This dish consists of beef olives, which are thin slices of beef rolled and filled with a mixture of breadcrumbs, parsley, bacon, and garlic. They are then cooked in a tomato-based sauce.
Kapunata: Also known as Maltese ratatouille, it is a delicious vegetable stew made with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, and garlic.
Bigilla: This is a traditional Maltese dip made from mashed broad beans, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. It is often served with bread or crackers.
Hobz Biz-Zejt: It’s a popular Maltese sandwich made with crusty bread, rubbed with ripe tomatoes, and topped with tuna, olives, capers, and olive oil.
Timpana: This is a baked pasta dish made with macaroni, minced beef, eggs, cheese, and a rich tomato sauce. It’s often considered a comfort food in Malta.
Qassatat: These are small pastries filled with either ricotta cheese or spinach. They are commonly found in Maltese bakeries and are perfect for a quick snack.
Imqaret: These are date-filled pastries made with a dough of semolina, filled with a sweet mixture of dates, orange zest, and spices. They are deep-fried until golden brown and are often enjoyed as a dessert.
Where to Eat in Malta
Malta boasts a plethora of restaurants, ranging from high-end dining establishments to charming family-run eateries. Marsaxlokk, a traditional fishing village, offers an array of seafood restaurants, while Valletta and St Julian’s are known for their diverse culinary offerings.
Outdoor Adventures in Malta
The Azure Window: A Natural Masterpiece
Although Malta’s Azure Window collapsed into the sea in 2017, the site remains an iconic attraction. Go diving in the Blue Hole beneath where the arch once stood, or simply enjoy the dramatic coastal landscape from the cliff tops.
Comino’s Blue Lagoon: An Aquamarine Paradise
Crystal-clear waters and pristine sands beckon you to the Blue Lagoon on the island of Comino. Whether you want to sunbathe, swim, or snorkel, this tiny slice of paradise is sure to impress.
Recommended Tour: Blue Lagoon
Practical Tips For Visiting Malta
Choose the Right Time to Visit: Malta has a warm climate almost all year round, but the ideal times to visit are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is not overly hot.
Pack Appropriately: Due to the Mediterranean climate, lightweight clothing is suitable for most of the year, but a jacket might be needed for cooler evenings. Don’t forget a good pair of walking shoes for exploring the cobbled streets and rugged landscapes.
Stay Hydrated: The Maltese sun can be quite strong, particularly in the summer months, so make sure you always carry a water bottle with you to stay hydrated.
Public Transport: Malta has an extensive and cost-effective public bus system that reaches most parts of the island. Consider getting a Tallinja card for unlimited travel during your stay.
Sun Protection: Even on cloudy days, the UV index can be high. Make sure to use sunscreen, wear a hat, and carry sunglasses.
Respect Local Customs: Maltese people are generally religious, so when visiting churches or other religious sites, dress modestly and respect the local customs.
Explore Beyond the Mainland: Don’t just limit yourself to the mainland. The islands of Gozo and Comino are worth exploring, with the Blue Lagoon on Comino being a particular highlight.
Try Local Cuisine: Make sure to sample local Maltese dishes such as pastizzi (cheese or pea-filled pastries), rabbit stew and ftira (a local type of sandwich).
Language: English is widely spoken in Malta, so communication should not be a problem for English-speaking travellers. However, learning a few basic phrases in Maltese could be appreciated by locals.
Safety Precautions: Malta is generally a safe country, but it’s advisable to exercise common sense, like keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places.
Book in Advance: For popular attractions such as the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, it’s a good idea to book your tickets well in advance due to limited daily admissions.
Water Sports and Activities: Malta is a great place for water sports such as snorkelling, diving, and sailing. Remember to adhere to safety guidelines and respect marine life.
Useful Apps: Download local apps like ‘Visit Malta’, ‘Malta Public Transport’, and ‘Malta Heritage’ for information on attractions, travel and historical sites.
Remember, every travel experience is unique, so these tips might need to be adapted based on personal preferences, travel style, and weather conditions at the time of your visit.
Recommended Tours
Final Thoughts
All things considered, Malta is a treasure trove of cultural gems, natural wonders, and culinary delights. With so much to offer, isn’t it time you made Malta the next destination on your travel bucket list?
Related articles: Best Time to Visit Malta
Recommended websites: Malta Government Website , Visit Malta Website
Author
Nick Harvey
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best time to visit Malta? The best time to visit Malta is during the spring (April to June) when the weather is warm but not too hot and the islands are less crowded.
What currency is used in Malta? Malta uses the Euro (€) as its official currency.
Is English widely spoken in Malta? Yes, English is one of the two official languages in Malta, making it an easy destination for English-speaking travellers.
What is the transportation system like in Malta? Malta has an efficient public transport system with extensive bus services. Taxis and car hire services are also readily available.
Are there any safety concerns for travellers in Malta? Malta is generally very safe for travellers. However, like anywhere, it’s advisable to take normal precautions with personal belongings and safety.
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