YOUR MALTA BUCKET LIST
Ranging from boat trips to fireworks, pastizzi to fish markets, here is a list of things you absolutely must do on your holiday to the Islands. We dare you to keep it, bookmark it, print it, keep it handy, so you can cross them off one by one
valletta by night
Valletta by Night
It goes without saying that the capital city of Valletta is stunning at any time of day, but have you strolled through the streets at night? Make your way to Strait Street this evening and stop anywhere along the way for a platter and a glass (or two) of wine, as you watch the City buzzing with life, on any given evening of the week.
cross over to the 3 cities
Vittoriosa
Transport yourself back in time by visiting the fortified cities of Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua, collectively known as Cottonera. We would recommend taking a sightseeing boat ride along the entire harbour, or putting your feet up and absorbing all there is to see on a vintage bus ride through the city.
marsaxlokk fishmarket sundays
Marsaxlokk
The picturesque, intensely colourful fishing village of Marsaxlokk is a must-see, on anyone’s trip to Malta. Small fishing boats dot the bay, as do top-notch restaurants overflowing with fresh fish. Get your hands on the morning catch at the open-air market, best visited on a Sunday morning.
cake from the silent city
Mdina
The old capital of Malta: Mdina, also known as the Silent City. The cobbled roads, shuttered windows and lack of noisy vehicles are enough to make anyone want to spend the afternoon roaming the streets. The cherry on the cake (excuse the pun) would be a slice of delectable chocolate cake from Fontanella.
watch a play at manoel theatre
Manoel Theatre
Named after Grand Master of the Order of the Knights Hospitallier, the Manoel Theatre is Malta’s national theatre, which frequently shows concerts, operas, recitals, musicals, dance shows and plays, in both English and Maltese. We would recommend watching one in Maltese for that extra degree of authenticity.
check out cittadella in gozo
Cittadella
Head over to the sister island of Gozo, via ferry, spend the day in the sun, roam the streets, take a dip and then visit the ancient fortified city, Cittadella, also known as the ‘Castello.’ Rich in buildings of architectural, military and historical value, including the Cathedral of the Assumption, it would be a sin not to pay it a visit before flying back home.
visit the megalithic sites
HaĠar qim
Would this really be a to-do list if the UNESCO World Heritage Sites weren’t on it? Built between 3600BC and 2500BC, Mnajdra and Hagar Qim sit 500m apart in the small, picturesque town of Qrendi. The megalithic temples are the best preserved and most evocative of Malta’s prehistoric sites, with an unparalleled location atop sea cliffs, all of which you should also dedicate some time to in your trip.
boat ride in wied iż-Żurrieq
Blue grotto cave complex
Not to be confused with the Blue Lagoon, the Blue Grotto is a complex of seven caves found along the southern coast of the island, right across from the little islet of Filfla. The complex is comprised of a massive main arch, approximately 30m in height, as well as a system of 6 other caves, amongst which you will find the Honeymoon Cave, the Cat’s Cave and the beautiful Reflection Cave. A boat trip to the caves is the best way to experience the true beauty of the area.
experience a traditional maltese feast
FIREWORKS DISPLAY
Act fast, because this one has a time constraint! The old village of Tarxien, in the south of Malta, is known for its celebration of the feast dedicated to Our Lady of Annunciation. Visit between the 28 of May and 3 of June for hours of fascinating air and ground fireworks, band marches and street decorations. Not to worry, though, every Maltese village holds a ‘festa’, throughout the months of June to September, which feature marching bands, food, festivities and of course, fireworks!
the artisan village
Ta' Qali
In the artisanal section of Ta’ Qali is where century-old traditions take centre stage. located in the former RAF wartime air-field and is a very popular tourist attraction in Malta, here, different kinds of crafts and beautiful artefacts are sold created by local experts. Maltese artisans showcase and sell their masterpieces, including ceramics, paintings, lace and much more. You can even spend a couple of hours in glass-blowing workshops!
take a dip in the blue lagoon
Blue Lagoon
The sun is shining, the skies are blue, though nothing will ever be as blue as the waters of the blue lagoon. A small bay with shallow, azure-coloured water that’s located on the West coast of Comino, between the main island and Cominotto. One of the most postcard-worthy sights on the islands, it is virtually uninhabited and can be accessed via a relatively cheap boat trip. Just a little, but crucial tip: get there early!
