You might think that Malta is just another summer holiday destination, but this tiny archipelago has a lot to offer for visitors! Rich culture, interesting history and amazing nature makes The Maltese Islands in the heart of the Mediterranean a perfect place for romantic weekend getaways but also for adventurous family vacations. It is difficult to highlight only a few places when a country is like an open-air museum with scenic beaches all around, but here are my favourite 5 places that you shouldn’t miss in Malta!
Blue Grotto
The rocky Maltese coastline features impressive caves and arches and the Blue Grotto is definitely one of the most remarkable of all! This 30 m tall arch alongside with several sea caverns were formed by the wind and waves over the centuries. The location might be familiar if you are a movie fanatic, because this is where the Troy (starring Brad Pitt) was filmed in 2004. The impressive caves can be visited by boats leaving from Wied iz-Zurrieq. For the best experience, join a tour that offers snorkeling too so you can get the opportunity of exploring the Mediterranean marine life. To get an idea what creatures you can see while snorkeling in Malta, visit Snorkel Around The World. I recommend stopping at the Panoramic viewpoint too to enjoy the best view with the Filfla islet in the background.
Valletta
Malta’s capital city is a place to fall in love with! No matter you wish to visit historical sites or just spend a lazy day walking around, eating and shopping, Valletta offers lots to do and see for everyone. Walk along the Merchants Street where you find churches, cafes, restaurants and lovely little shops! If you are interested in history, don’t miss out visiting the Fort St. Elmo that hosts the National War Museum. Art lovers will enjoy the St John’s Co Cathedral where a collection of Caravaggio works is displayed. From the Upper Barrakka Garden you can enjoy the breath-taking view over the Valletta Grand Harbour. At the Saluting Battery, one of the guns is fired every day at noon and at 4 o’clock.
Golden Bay
Malta’s rocky shoreline doesn’t have too many sandy beaches but those few ones are unique and first-class! The Golden Bay is considered the most beautiful beach in Malta and a favourite spot of locals and tourists. No matter you wish to just relax while your kids play in the shallow water, or want to organize an evening BBQ party with your friends, this golden-sand beach is the perfect place for any activity. The best time to visit Golden Beach around sunset when the rays of the setting sun light up all the surrounding cliffs creating a truly romantic atmosphere!
The Gozo Azure Window
The iconic Azure Window in Dwejra Bay on the Island of Gozo was one of Malta’s symbols until it has collapsed in 2017. The remains are completely underwater and can be seen only while diving. Most tourists don’t know that there is another, not really well-known impressive natural arch in Gozo called as the new Azure Window. The Wied il-Mielah Window is still unspoilt and provides excellent views of the surrounding magnificent cliffs.
Temples of Malta
The Maltese archipelago features several Megalithic temples which were built between 3600 and 700 BC by Neolithic inhabitants. These circular structures were made of strategically placed massive limestone blocks to align with the rising sun. Six of the more than 20 prehistoric sites were added to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list: The Ġgantija temples in 1980, and later in 1992 the Ħaġar Qim, Mnajdra, Ta’ Ħaġrat, Skorba and Tarxien temples were also listed. I highly suggest you to visit some of these places even if you are not interested in history because most temples are built in wonderful locations overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
