Malta

Malta's history is incredibly rich and visible everywhere you look. The country boasts some of the world's oldest freestanding structures in its Neolithic temples, such as Ħaġar Qim. The capital city, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a stunning example of Baroque architecture and military engineering. The legacy of the Knights of St. John, who ruled the island for centuries, is evident in its grand palaces and fortifications. The Maltese language itself is a unique Semitic language with a Latin script, reflecting the island's cultural crossroads.

Beyond its history, Malta is a popular holiday destination with over 300 days of sunshine a year. Visitors can explore the charming fishing village of Marsaxlokk, the medieval walled city of Mdina (the "Silent City"), and the beautiful smaller islands of Gozo and Comino, home to the famous Blue Lagoon. With its combination of history, sun, and sea, Malta is a captivating destination.

Reasons to Visit

• Incredible History: Explore a country with a history that spans 7,000 years, from prehistoric temples to the forts of the Knights of St. John.
• Beautiful Valletta: Discover the stunning, fortified capital city of Valletta, a masterpiece of Baroque art and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Sun and Sea: Enjoy the warm, sunny Mediterranean climate and the crystal-clear waters of famous spots like the Blue Lagoon.
• The Island of Gozo: Take a trip to the smaller, more rural island of Gozo for a more relaxed pace and beautiful countryside.

Things to Avoid

• Driving in Valletta: The historic capital has very restricted driving zones and is best explored on foot. Driving elsewhere on the island can be congested.
• The Crowds at the Blue Lagoon: The famous Blue Lagoon on Comino can get extremely crowded in summer. Go very early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the worst of it.
• Expecting Sandy Beaches Everywhere: Malta has some beautiful sandy beaches, but much of its coastline is rocky.
• Underestimating the Summer Heat: July and August are very hot and humid. Stay hydrated and plan your sightseeing for cooler parts of the day.

Local Transportation Tips

Malta has an extensive and affordable public bus system that covers the entire island, making it the best way to get around without a car. Ferries run regularly between Malta, Gozo, and Comino. Ride-hailing apps like Bolt and Uber are also widely available and convenient.

Travel Etiquette

• Respect for Religion: Malta is a predominantly Catholic country. Dress modestly when visiting churches, and be respectful of religious festivals.
• Greetings: A friendly greeting is appreciated. English is an official language, so communication is easy.
• Punctuality: Being on time for appointments is generally expected.
• Politeness: Maltese people are generally friendly and helpful to tourists.

Did You Know?

Malta was a British colony for over 150 years, which is why they drive on the left, have British-style red telephone boxes, and why English is an official language alongside Maltese.

Cool Malta Stats

• Oldest Temples: The megalithic temples of Malta, such as Ġgantija on Gozo, are older than both Stonehenge and the pyramids of Egypt, dating back to around 3600 BC.
• A Film Star: Malta's unique landscapes and historic architecture have made it a popular filming location for productions like "Gladiator," "Troy," and "Game of Thrones."
• Three Islands: The Republic of Malta is an archipelago, but only the three largest islands—Malta, Gozo, and Comino—are inhabited.

Recommended Age Group

Malta is a fantastic destination for a wide range of travelers, especially Adults, Seniors, and interested Teens.

• Babies (0-2 years): Recommended with planning. The country has good facilities, but the heat and crowds in summer can be a challenge.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children will enjoy the forts, boat trips, and the Popeye Village film set.
• Teens (13-19 years): Highly Recommended. The mix of history, boat trips to the Blue Lagoon, and a safe environment make it a great destination.
• Adults (20-64 years): Highly Recommended. Malta offers a perfect blend of deep history, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.
• Seniors (65+ years): Highly Recommended. The rich history and the fact that English is widely spoken make it a very popular and comfortable destination for seniors, though the historic sites can have uneven terrain.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• Modern areas are improving, but the many historic sites present significant challenges.
• The streets of Valletta and the fortified cities are hilly and can be difficult for wheelchairs. Many historic sites have steps and are not accessible.
• The public bus system has modern, low-floor buses that are wheelchair accessible.
• The ferry to Gozo is accessible, as are many of the modern hotels and restaurants.