Malta is a small but stunning island country in the Mediterranean Sea with a rich history and culture. Although it is relatively small, there are many places to see and things to do in Malta that can be explored by car. Here are some suggestions:
Valletta
Valletta is the capital city of Malta, located on the eastern coast of the island. It is known for its rich history and stunning architecture, as well as its museums, art galleries, and lively cultural scene. Some of the top attractions to visit in Valletta include St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Grand Master’s Palace, the Upper Barrakka Gardens, and the National Museum of Archaeology. The city is also home to numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a great destination for foodies and shoppers alike. Additionally, Valletta hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including the Malta Arts Festival and the Valletta Film Festival.
Mdina
Mdina is a fortified city in Malta, located in the center of the island. It was once the capital of Malta and is known as the “Silent City” due to its peaceful atmosphere. The city dates back to the 8th century BC and is rich in history and culture. Some of the top sights to see in Mdina include the St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Mdina Dungeons, the Cathedral Museum, and the Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum. Additionally, the narrow streets and ancient architecture of the city make for a unique and picturesque setting to explore.
The Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is actually located on the island of Comino, which is situated between the islands of Malta and Gozo. It is a beautiful and popular spot known for its crystal-clear blue waters and is accessible by boat from both Malta and Gozo. While you cannot drive to the Blue Lagoon, you can take a car to one of the nearby ports and catch a boat from there.
The Megalithic Temples of Malta
The Megalithic Temples of Malta are a series of prehistoric stone temples built between 3600 and 2500 BC on the islands of Malta and Gozo. These temples are some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world, and they are among the most important archaeological sites in Malta. The temples are made of local limestone and were constructed using techniques that are still not fully understood today. The largest and most impressive of these temples is the Ħaġar Qim temple complex, which is located on a hilltop overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Other notable temples include the Ggantija temples on Gozo and the Tarxien temples on Malta. These temples are not only impressive for their age and the techniques used to construct them, but also for the artistry and symbolism of their decoration. Many of the temples feature intricate carvings and painted decorations that suggest a rich and complex culture that thrived on these islands in prehistoric times.
Gozo
Gozo is an island in the Mediterranean Sea that is part of Malta. It is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty, history, and cultural attractions. Here are some of the things to see and do in Gozo:
- Visit the Citadel: The Citadel is a fortress that sits atop a hill in Victoria, the capital city of Gozo. It offers panoramic views of the island and is home to several historical landmarks, including the Cathedral of the Assumption.
- See the Azure Window: The Azure Window was a natural limestone arch that was one of Gozo’s most popular tourist attractions. Unfortunately, it collapsed in 2017, but the nearby Inland Sea and Fungus Rock are still worth visiting.
- Explore the Ggantija Temples: The Ggantija Temples are prehistoric megalithic temples that are among the oldest free-standing structures in the world. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are believed to date back to around 3600 BC.
- Relax on Ramla Bay: Ramla Bay is a beautiful beach with golden sand and clear blue waters. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
- Visit the Ta’ Pinu Basilica: The Ta’ Pinu Basilica is a Roman Catholic church that is considered to be one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Malta. It is located in the countryside of Gozo and is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings.
- Walk through the Xlendi Bay: Xlendi Bay is a small fishing village on the southwest coast of Gozo. It is known for its beautiful scenery, crystal clear waters, and excellent seafood restaurants.
- Explore the Cittadella Visitor Centre: The Cittadella Visitor Centre is an interactive museum that provides insight into the history and culture of Gozo. It is located within the walls of the Citadel and features exhibits on archaeology, architecture, and art.
- Take a boat trip: There are many boat trips available around the island of Gozo, including trips to Comino and the Blue Lagoon. These trips offer stunning views of the coast and are a great way to experience the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea.
Marsaxlokk
Marsaxlokk is a picturesque fishing village located in the southeastern part of Malta, near the capital city of Valletta. It is known for its colorful traditional fishing boats, called Luzzus, which are painted in bright colors and often have the Eye of Horus painted on their prows for good luck.
The village is home to a bustling fish market, where locals and visitors can buy fresh fish caught by the village’s fishermen. There are also plenty of seafood restaurants and cafes along the waterfront, serving up traditional Maltese dishes such as fish soup, octopus stew, and fried calamari.
Marsaxlokk also has a small beach where visitors can swim and sunbathe, as well as a few historic sites such as the St. Lucian Tower, which dates back to the 17th century and offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline. The nearby Blue Grotto sea caves, a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, are also worth a visit.
The Dingli Cliffs
The Dingli Cliffs are located on the southwestern coast of the island of Malta, and they are known for their stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The cliffs reach a height of around 220 meters (720 feet) above sea level, making them one of the highest points on the island. Visitors can take a walk along the cliffs to enjoy the scenic views, and there are several vantage points that provide panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. The area around the cliffs is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and hikers.
St. Julian’s
St. Julian’s is a town located on the east coast of Malta, known for its vibrant nightlife, beaches, and restaurants. Some popular attractions in St. Julian’s include:
- Spinola Bay – a picturesque harbor with traditional Maltese fishing boats and a variety of restaurants and cafes.
- St. George’s Bay – a popular sandy beach with crystal clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Paceville – the main nightlife hub of Malta, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants.
- Love Monument – a famous sculpture located in St. Julian’s, symbolizing love and unity.
- Portomaso Marina – a modern marina with luxury yachts and a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants.
- Balluta Bay – a charming seaside promenade with stunning views of the Mediterranean sea.
- Trig Santa Rita Steps – a picturesque staircase leading to a viewpoint with stunning views of the Mediterranean and the surrounding landscape.
- Bay Street Shopping Complex – a large shopping mall with a variety of shops, restaurants, and a cinema.
- Parish Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel – a beautiful baroque church located in the heart of St. Julian’s.
- Tigne Point – a modern waterfront complex with luxury apartments, shops, restaurants, and a cinema.
The Three Cities
The Three Cities are a collective term used to refer to three fortified cities on the eastern side of the Grand Harbor in Malta. These cities are Vittoriosa (also known as Birgu), Senglea (also known as L’Isla), and Cospicua (also known as Bormla). The Three Cities are steeped in history and offer a glimpse into Malta’s past. Visitors can explore the narrow winding streets, fortified walls, and historic landmarks such as the Inquisitor’s Palace, the Fort St. Angelo, and the Church of St. Lawrence. The Three Cities also offer stunning views of the harbor and are a popular spot for watching the sunset.
Popeye Village
Popeye Village is a theme park and film set that was created for the 1980 musical production “Popeye” starring Robin Williams. It is located in Anchor Bay, on the north-west corner of the Mediterranean island of Malta. Visitors can take a tour of the village and see the houses, boats, and other structures that were built for the film. There are also a variety of activities available, including boat rides, water trampolines, and bouncy castles. The village has a restaurant, a souvenir shop, and various entertainment options, making it a popular destination for families with children.
These are just a few of the many places to see and things to do in Malta by car. It’s worth noting that driving in Malta can be challenging due to the narrow roads and heavy traffic, so it’s important to take caution and follow the rules of the road.
The most beautiful islands of Malta
Malta is an archipelago consisting of three islands – Malta, Gozo, and Comino. While Malta and Gozo are the main islands and have plenty of sights to offer, Comino is a smaller island known for its Blue Lagoon. Here are some of the most beautiful islands to visit in Malta:
- Comino: Comino is a small island located between Malta and Gozo. The island is known for its clear blue waters, and the Blue Lagoon is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling.
- Gozo: Gozo is the second-largest island in the archipelago and is known for its rugged coastline, beautiful beaches, and stunning countryside. Highlights include the Ggantija Temples, the Azure Window, and the Citadel.
- Malta: The island of Malta is the largest and most populous of the three islands. It is home to the capital city of Valletta, as well as several other historic sites, including the ancient city of Mdina and the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum.
- Cominotto: Cominotto is a small uninhabited island located next to Comino. It is a popular spot for diving and snorkeling.
- St. Paul’s Island: St. Paul’s Island is a small island located off the coast of Malta. According to legend, St. Paul was shipwrecked on the island in 60 AD.
- Filfla: Filfla is a small uninhabited island located off the southwest coast of Malta. It is a protected nature reserve and is home to a variety of bird species.
- Fungus Rock: Fungus Rock is a small island located off the coast of Gozo. It is named for a rare medicinal plant that grows on the island.
- Kemmunett: Kemmunett is a small island located off the coast of Malta. It is home to a variety of bird species and is a popular spot for birdwatching.
- Manoel Island: Manoel Island is a small island located in the harbor of Valletta. It is home to several historic buildings, including Fort Manoel and the Lazzaretto.
- Ta’ Cenc: Ta’ Cenc is a small island located off the coast of Gozo. It is a protected nature reserve and is home to a variety of bird species.
Camping in Malta. Parking in Malta
Camping is not a popular form of accommodation in Malta, as there are no designated camping sites on the island. However, there are a few campsites that are available for specific events and festivals that take place throughout the year. Additionally, there are some designated areas where wild camping is permitted, but this is strictly regulated by the local authorities, and requires a special permit.
If you are looking for alternative forms of accommodation in Malta, there are plenty of options available, such as hotels, guesthouses, apartments, and hostels. It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the high season, as the island tends to get quite crowded with tourists.
Ferries in Malta
Malta is a small island nation and does not have inter-island ferries. However, there are several ferry services that connect Malta with nearby destinations such as Sicily, Italy, and Tunisia. These services are operated by various companies and offer different routes and schedules depending on the season. It is recommended to check the schedules and book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season.