What to do in Malta in 3 days
A small island country in southern Europe, a crossroads of different cultures and peoples, Malta is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Its beaches, cliffs and the huge cultural heritage of the islands that make up the Maltese archipelago, in addition to the good climate and food, make Malta attractive for all kinds of tourists.
Here are some tips on what to see if you have a few days!
General informations
Malta is well connected from the rest of Europe with numerous flights (including low cost) and from Sicily also by ferry. In about an hour of flight from almost all cities of Italy you can reach the Luqa interaction airport (in the center of the island), about 20 minutes by car from the main destinations of the main island of the archipelago. The Republic of Malta in fact consists of 3 main islands of which 2 are inhabited (the island of Malta proper) and Gozo and the island of Comino.
The movements around the main island, given the small size, are quite easy. Whether you opt for public transport, private taxis (I recommend you download the eCab, Ride or Uber app to book and pay directly through the app for your trips with pre-established rates that are decidedly cheap compared to other European countries) or rent a car, moving around the island, despite the traffic, will be quite simple.
There are several options to travel from the island of Malta to Gozo and Comino. Ferries directly from Valletta, organized mini cruises or ferry from Cirkewwa, the shortest.
Valletta
The small capital of Malta offers its visitor an artistic and cultural heritage of great prestige, such as to have made it a site considered a World Heritage Site by Unesco. Valletta, perched on a peninsula between the cities of Sliema and the 3 cities, is the perfect combination of all the cultures that landed on the island. Apart from getting lost in its alleys, admiring the view from its walls and ramparts, the unmissable places in a visit to the city are the magnificent St. John’s Co-Cathedral (in which works by Caravaggio are also preserved), the gardens of Barrakka, the fort of Sant’Elmo, the new waterfront, the numerous museums and churches and the shopping along Republic street and Merchant street (the market in this same street is also a must). Valletta is a city within reach of tourists. Most of the attractions are located within walking distance in a small, well-kept and charming old town.
Mdina and Rabat
If Valletta is the current capital of the republic of Malta, the first capital of the island was Mdina (or Medina, or notable city or silent city). In the center of the island, Mdina still remains a jewel taken by storm by tourists during the summer months. Inhabited by a few hundred people, the city has maintained its austere medieval walls and wonderful noble palaces as well as majestic churches. A tour of Mdina is a must during a stay in Malta. Leaving the walls, in less than 10 minutes on foot you reach the city of Rabat. In this town there is one of the most important sanctuaries dedicated to St. Paul on the island, where according to tradition the saint lived for a period. Mdina and Rabat can be easily reached from Valletta in about 20-25 minutes by taxi (average price 20-25 euros) or by bus.
The Three Cities
In less than 10 minutes by boat from Valletta you can reach the so-called Three Cities. These are three small fortified towns that have made the history of the island. The order of the Knights of San Giovanni, in fact, built Senglea, Vittoriosa and Cospicua as strongholds to control the dominion on the island.
Towers, walls, forts and churches are perched on the opposite side of Valletta. The Three Cities offer a unique panorama and an unmissable view of the capital. Although reachable also by land, I suggest you opt for the ferry or traditional boats for a more authentic experience.
Sliema, St.Julians and Paceville
For those who prefer seaside tourism, worldliness and nightlife, the choice must fall on the towns of Sliema, St. Julian’s and Paceville. Just north of Valletta, reachable in just 7 minutes by ferry, Sliema offers a seafront, modern buildings and hotels that are besieged by tourists during the summer months. The same goes for San Giuliano and its Paceville hamlet where you will find most of the clubs in the area. One of the most beautiful places in St. Julian’s is Balluta Bay, a small beach surrounded by historic buildings and the neo-Gothic Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
Other tips
Three days of travel are few to savor a full Maltese experience. However, as a first approach to the archipelago it can certainly be a start. To conclude this article, here are some random tips on what to do, where to stay and eat in Malta.
Where to sleep? I definitely recommend Valletta. The capital offers the maximum of connections and cultural and artistic attractions of the country. The unmissable address is the Embassy Hotel La Valletta, a luxurious 4-star hotel located in the center that offers a rooftop with swimming pool with a unique view of the city. The rooftop is also open to the public from 7pm for an aperitif or dinner.
Where to eat Maltese cuisine in Valletta? The choice is vast. I recommend Rampila, on Republic Street.
Another experience not to be missed on the island of Malta is to go to Café del Mar. Cousin of the iconic Sunset bar of Ibiza, in St. Paul’s Bay in the north west of the island, the Maltese version of Café del Mar offers a magnificent infinity pool overlooking the sea where you can admire unique sunsets while listening to excellent music, tasting delicious sushi and excellent cocktails. An experience not to be missed (it is useful to book your cot first on the official website!).
So, did I make you want to go to Malta?