Nestled in the center of the Mediterranean Sea, the enchanting archipelago of Malta beckons vacationers with its shimmering azure waters, sun-kissed landscapes, and a wealthy tapestry of historical past. This historical tiny island situated south of Sicily seamlessly weaves collectively threads from numerous civilizations which have known as this island nation dwelling. So, pack your luggage and allow us to embark on a journey by way of the very best issues to do in Malta, the place each nook turned and each stone unturned reveals a brand new journey, a brand new story, and a brand new reminiscence etched in time.
Best Things to Do in Malta
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From the silent, golden-hued streets of Mdina to the bustling, vibrant markets of Marsaxlokk, this Mediterranean nation is a kaleidoscope of experiences ready to be found. Whether you’re a historical past buff trying to discover its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a nature lover, or somebody searching for a tranquil escape on Golden Bay, this gem of the Mediterranean has one thing for everybody.
Sun-kissed rocky cliffs, hidden coastal walks, and the very best scuba diving situations in Europe make this tiny isle one of many prime locations for open air fanatics.
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Below are among the prime excursions in Malta. Don’t overlook to plan forward when visiting Malta!
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About Malta
Malta is likely one of the oldest international locations in Europe, courting again to prehistoric occasions, with archaeological proof of human exercise courting again to the Neolithic interval. The archipelago has seen a large number of civilizations come and go, together with the Phoenicians, Romans, and Arabs, all of which have left their mark on the island’s tradition and heritage.
One of essentially the most important durations in Malta’s historical past was the arrival of the Knights of St. John in 1530. The Knights, also referred to as the Knights Hospitaller or the Order of St. John, had been a Catholic navy order that performed an important position in the Crusades. The Knights of St. John had been granted Malta by Holy Roman Emperor Charles V in trade for an annual lease of 1 Maltese Falcon.
The Order dominated Malta till 1798 when Napoleon Bonaparte expelled them throughout his Mediterranean marketing campaign. Malta subsequently grew to become a British colony in 1800 and remained so till it gained its independence in 1964.
So, now that a bit of bit about its fascinating historical past, let’s check out all of the issues to see while you go to Malta.
1. Visit Valletta
Valletta, the diminutive capital metropolis of Malta, is a fortified metropolis incomes it a prestigious spot on the UNESCO World Heritage Site List. The metropolis is situated on Malta’s Grand Harbor and is likely one of the most historic cities in Europe. Founded in the sixteenth century by the Knights of St. John, is a testomony to the grandeur of Baroque structure with its spectacular bastions, forts, and cathedral. Not to point out, Valletta can be Europe’s sunniest capital thanks to its southern location.
For these in artwork and historical past, the National Museum of Archaeology is a must-visit. The museum homes an in depth assortment of artifacts from Malta’s prehistoric interval, offering a glimpse into the island’s historical civilizations. Similarly, the National War Museum tells the story of Malta’s position in WWII, and the Lascaris War Rooms reveal the underground tunnels used as struggle headquarters.
Valletta can be a metropolis of festivals, with the annual Valletta International Baroque Festival being a selected spotlight. This celebration of Baroque music takes place in numerous historic venues throughout the town, showcasing each native and worldwide expertise.
2. St. John’s Co-Cathedral
One must-see attraction is St. John’s Co-Cathedral. This gorgeous instance of Baroque structure was constructed by the Knights of St. John and is dwelling to Caravaggio’s masterpiece, “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist”.
The cathedral’s exterior is deceptively easy, that includes a sober and fortified facade typical of its time. However, the inside is the place St. John’s Co-Cathedral really shines. The nave, facet chapels, and altars are adorned with elaborate gold leaf, intricate carvings, and delightful frescoes. The ground is roofed with intricate marble tombstones, beneath which lie the stays of over 400 knights and officers of the order.
St. John’s Co-Cathedral can be an vital place of worship right now. The cathedral is used for vital liturgical occasions and celebrations, together with the Feast of St. John the Baptist, which is the patron saint of each the cathedral and the Knights of St. John.
Another spotlight is the Grandmaster’s Palace, which serves because the President’s official residence. The palace is open to the general public, and guests can discover the staterooms and the Armoury, which homes one of many world’s largest collections of medieval armor and weapons.
3. Cruise the Grand Harbour
The Grand Harbour, also referred to as Port il-Kbir, is likely one of the most vital and iconic landmarks in Malta. It has performed an important position in the nation’s historical past, shaping its tradition and growth over the centuries. With its deep, sheltered waters and dramatic cliffs and fortifications, the Grand Harbour is likely one of the most gorgeous pure harbors in the world. Its geographical location has made it a strategic port for numerous civilizations over the millennia.
The Grand Harbour has been a hub of maritime exercise for over two thousand years. It has witnessed quite a few historic occasions, from the arrival of the Phoenicians and the Romans to the Second World War Encirclement.
Today, the Grand Harbour is a bustling financial hub, with its shipyards, cruise liner terminal, and numerous companies contributing to the nation’s economic system.
4. Upper Barrakka Gardens
The Upper Barrakka Gardens provide a serene escape with panoramic views of the Grand Harbour. The gardens had been initially created in 1661 as a personal train floor for the Knights of St. John, the navy order that dominated Malta from the sixteenth to the 18th century.
The Upper Barrakka Gardens are open to the general public and supply a peaceable and picturesque retreat from the bustling streets of Valletta. The each day cannon firing is a singular spectacle that pays homage to the town’s navy historical past.
They are one among Malta’s most lovely public gardens and a must-visit attraction for vacationers and locals alike. Perched on prime of the bastion partitions overlooking the Grand Harbour, one of the crucial lovely pure harbors in the world, in addition to the historic Three Cities and the encircling countryside they provide top-of-the-line views when visiting Malta.
The Upper Barrakka Gardens are a wonderful and historic attraction that can be dwelling to a number of statues and monuments devoted to notable figures in Malta’s historical past, together with Sir Winston Churchill and Sir Alexander Ball, the primary British Civil Commissioner of Malta.
5. National Museum of Archaeology
As we talked about, Malta is an historical land and a go to to the National Museum of Archaeology has a wealthy assortment of artifacts that span the nation’s lengthy and numerous historical past, from the Neolithic interval to the Phoenician Period. The highlights embrace the well-known “Sleeping Lady,” a small clay determine believed to signify a mom goddess or fertility deity, and the “Venus of Malta,” one other figurine that symbolizes fertility.
The museum showcases a wide range of artifacts from the Megalithic Temples of Malta, that are among the oldest freestanding constructions in the world. These embrace pottery, stone instruments, and complex carvings that present perception into the non secular and each day lifetime of the temple builders.
The National Museum of Archaeology is a treasure trove of artifacts that present an enchanting glimpse into the nation’s previous. From prehistoric collectible figurines to Phoenician pottery, the museum provides a complete overview of Malta’s archaeological heritage, making it a must-visit vacation spot for historical past fanatics and anybody in studying extra about this fascinating Mediterranean island.
6. Explore Mdina – The Silent City
Known because the “Silent City”, Mdina is the traditional capital metropolis of Malta. This medieval walled metropolis is one among Malta’s most fascinating treasures.
Sitting atop a hill in the center of the island, this historical walled metropolis, with its slender and winding streets, exudes a timeless aura that transports guests to a bygone period. The metropolis’s structure is a wonderful mix of medieval and baroque types, reflecting its wealthy historical past.
One of the must-see sights in Mdina is St. Paul’s Cathedral, a powerful baroque constructing that stands tall on the heart of the town. The cathedral’s inside is adorned with lovely frescoes and complex carvings which can be a testomony to the craftsmanship of the time.
7. Discover the Megalithic Temples
Malta’s Megalithic Temples are among the oldest free-standing constructions in the world, predating Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. These temples are a testomony to the island’s wealthy prehistoric previous and are collectively acknowledged as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
There are a number of Megalithic Temples scattered throughout the Maltese archipelago, every providing a singular glimpse into the lives and beliefs of the traditional individuals who constructed them.
The most well-known of those temples are the Ggantija Temples in Gozo. The identify “Ggantija” interprets to “Giantess,” reflecting the large scale of the constructions. These temples date again to round 3600 BC and are characterised by their colossal stone blocks, a few of which weigh a number of tons.
8. Explore the Three Cities
The Three Cities – Vittoriosa (also referred to as Birgu), Senglea (Isla), and Cospicua (Bormla) – are a trio of fortified cities located throughout the Grand Harbour from Valletta. These cities are a cradle of Maltese historical past and have performed a pivotal position in the island’s previous, serving as the primary dwelling for the Knights of St. John once they arrived in Malta in 1530.
Exploring the Three Cities is like taking a step again in time. The slender streets, historical buildings, and historic websites all contribute to the realm’s distinctive environment. Moreover, the Three Cities are much less touristy than Valletta, providing a extra genuine expertise of Maltese tradition and historical past.
Vittoriosa
Vittoriosa is the oldest and most vital of the Three Cities. The metropolis’s wealthy historical past is obvious in its museums, church buildings, and historical forts. The Inquisitor’s Palace, a former residence of the Inquisitor of Malta, is now a museum that gives an enchanting perception into the island’s previous. The Maritime Museum, situated in a former bakery, showcases Malta’s maritime historical past. Fort St. Angelo, which performed an important position throughout the Great Siege of Malta in 1565, is a must-visit for historical past buffs.
Senglea
Senglea, the smallest of the Three Cities, is thought for its lovely waterfront and the long-lasting Gardjola, a watchtower with sculptures of an eye fixed and an ear symbolizing the watchful eye and ear of the town’s protectors. The metropolis’s identify, Isla, comes from the title given to Grandmaster Claude de la Sengle, who fortified the town in the sixteenth century.
Cospicua
Cospicua is essentially the most intensive and the youngest of the Three Cities. The metropolis is thought for its spectacular fortifications, together with the Margherita Lines and the Cottonera Lines, each of which had been important to the island’s protection. The Church of the Immaculate Conception is one other spotlight, with its lovely inside and art work.
9. Enjoy the Beach of Golden Bay
Golden Bay is likely one of the hottest and delightful sandy seashores in Malta, providing an ideal mixture of rest, enjoyable, and gorgeous pure surroundings. The vast, golden sandy seaside is surrounded by majestic cliffs and the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, offering a postcard-perfect backdrop in your seaside day.
The light slope of the seaside makes it good for households with youngsters, whereas the crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. For these searching for a extra adrenaline-fueled expertise, there are numerous water sports activities obtainable, together with jet snowboarding, paragliding, and windsurfing.
10. Go Scuba Diving
Malta is famend for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, making it a prime vacation spot for scuba diving in Europe. With its myriad of underwater caves, tunnels, and historic shipwrecks, the Maltese archipelago provides an unparalleled diving expertise that caters to divers of all ranges of experience.
Notable Malta Dive Sites
Notable dive websites in Malta embrace the Santa Maria Caves, Cirkewwa, and the P29 Patrol Boat wreck. Each web site provides its personal distinctive underwater panorama and marine life, making certain that divers won’t ever tire of exploring the waters round Malta.
Another must-visit dive web site is the wreck of the HMS Maori. This British destroyer was sunk throughout World War II and now lies at a depth of 14 meters off the coast of Valletta. The wreck is dwelling to a various vary of marine life, together with moray eels, groupers, and numerous species of fish. The ship’s construction, together with its gun turrets and propeller, continues to be seen, making it an thrilling and academic dive.
11. Dive the Blue Hole
One of essentially the most well-known dive websites in Malta is the Blue Hole, situated close to the island of Gozo. This pure underwater pool is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and opens into the ocean by way of a big arch. Divers can discover the wealthy marine life, together with parrotfish, barracuda, and octopus, whereas additionally discovering the fascinating underwater rock formations.
12. Snorkeling in Malta
If diving is off-limits for you then snorkeling in Malta is a good different. You can snorkel independently or take an organized snorkeling journey.
Some of the very best snorkeling spots embrace Qawra Point, its shallow waters are perfect for first-timers. The Crystal Lagoon in Cirkewwa is well-known for its reef wealthy in marine life and the Santa Maria Caves are a good selection if you happen to fancy seeing slightly giant faculties of bream.
13. Visit the Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon, nestled between the tiny islet of Comino and the smaller Cominotto, is an idyllic spot that gives a slice of paradise in the center of the Mediterranean. This shimmering lagoon is famend for its vibrant azure seas that appear to sparkle beneath the Maltese solar, offering a stark distinction to the rugged landscapes that encompass it.
A go to to the Blue Lagoon offers you the chance to swim and snorkel in among the clearest waters you’ll ever encounter. The readability of the water permits for an unparalleled view of the marine life that inhabits the lagoon. From colourful fish to attention-grabbing rock formations, there’s a wealthy underwater world ready to be explored.
Boat excursions could be booked to the Blue Lagoon right here. They embrace stops on the Blue Lagoon the place you may get out and snorkel or swim and enter the caves of Crystal Lagoon. Take in the views of Malta’s shoreline, view the statue of Saint Paul, and go to Comino Island.
14. Visit the Palace of the Grand Master
The Palace of the Grand Master, also referred to as the Grandmaster’s Palace, is likely one of the most iconic and traditionally important buildings in Valletta. Built in the late sixteenth century, the palace was the official residence of the Grand Master of the Knights of St. John, and it now serves because the official residence of the President of Malta.
The palace’s grandiose structure and delightful interiors are a testomony to the wealth and energy of the Knights of St. John. Visitors can discover the staterooms and personal flats utilized by the Grand Masters, that are adorned with opulent furnishings, intricate tapestries, and gorgeous frescoes. The Palace Armory, situated on the bottom ground, is one other spotlight, housing one of many world’s most intensive collections of medieval armor and weaponry.
In addition to its historic and cultural significance, the Palace of the Grand Master can be an architectural marvel. The constructing’s facade is a first-rate instance of Baroque structure.
The Palace of the Grand Master can be dwelling to the Maltese Parliament, and guests can witness the altering of the guard ceremony that takes place in St. George’s Square in entrance of the palace. This ceremonial occasion is a vibrant and colourful show of Maltese custom and isn’t to be missed.
15. Explore the Tarxien Temples
The Tarxien Temples are a fancy of 4 megalithic constructions constructed between 3600 and 2500 BC. They are thought-about one of the crucial important archaeological websites on the island and had been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980 as a part of the Megalithic Temples of Malta.
The oldest temple, which dates again to round 3600 BC, is situated on the japanese finish of the advanced, with three different temples regularly added to the west.
16. Take a Boat Trip to Gozo
Gozo, the second largest island in the Maltese archipelago, is a tranquil haven with its lush landscapes, quaint villages, and gorgeous shoreline. The Ggantija Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a must-visit, showcasing the island’s wealthy historical past that dates again to the Neolithic period.
The gorgeous Azure Window, a pure limestone arch that was one among Gozo’s most iconic landmarks, could have collapsed in 2017, however the web site stays a preferred spot for swimming and diving.
Gozo can be dwelling to among the greatest seashores in the Maltese archipelago, together with Ramla Bay, with its reddish-golden sand, and the secluded San Blas Bay. Also, don’t miss the Inland Sea, a singular physique of water on the island is surrounded by towering cliffs and is a well-liked spot for swimming and snorkeling.
To catch a ship to Gozo, you may take a ferry from the Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal in Malta, which is situated on the northernmost level of the island. The ferry is operated by the Gozo Channel Line, and it takes roughly 25 minutes to cross the Grand Harbour and attain the Mgarr Harbour in Gozo. Ferries run regularly all through the day, and the service is obtainable for each passengers and autos. Or in case you are searching for one thing extra organized this can be a nice tour to strive.
17. Explore the Ggantija Temples
The Ggantija Temples deserve a bit of extra consideration, so let’s speak extra about these freestanding historical ruins, predating the pyramids of Egypt and Stonehenge. Built throughout the Neolithic Age (round 3600-3200 BC), The Ggantija Temples advanced consists of two primary temples, located facet by facet, surrounded by a large widespread boundary wall.
The identify “Ggantija” derives from the Maltese phrase for “giant,” as folklore means that the temples had been constructed by giants due to the sheer dimension of the megaliths used in their development, with some stones weighing greater than fifty tons.
18. Visit the Rotunda of Mosta
The Rotunda of Mosta, also referred to as the Mosta Dome, is likely one of the most spectacular and iconic landmarks in Malta. Built in the nineteenth century, the Rotunda of Mosta is likely one of the largest unsupported domes in the world, with a diameter of 39.6 meters.
The church’s design was impressed by the Pantheon in Rome, and it’s a masterpiece of neoclassical structure. The dome is adorned with intricate frescoes and sculptures that depict numerous non secular scenes and figures.
One of essentially the most outstanding occasions related to the Rotunda of Mosta occurred in 1942 when a German bomb pierced the dome throughout an air raid however failed to explode. The 200 kg bomb fell amongst a congregation of greater than 300 individuals who had been attending mass, however miraculously, it didn’t detonate, and nobody was injured. The unexploded bomb is now on show on the church’s vestry, serving as a testomony to the religion and resilience of the Maltese individuals.
19. Visit St. Paul’s Catacombs in Rabat
Make positive to go to St. Paul’s Catacombs in Rabat to discover the fascinating underground world of historical burial websites and acquire perception into the non secular and cultural practices of the individuals who inhabited the island throughout the Roman interval.
The catacombs are an in depth community of underground tombs that had been used from the 4th to the ninth century AD. They are named after St. Paul, who’s believed to have shipwrecked on Malta in 60 AD and launched Christianity to the island.
St. Paul’s Catacombs are the biggest and most spectacular of the quite a few catacombs discovered in Malta. The web site consists of greater than 30 hypogea (underground tombs) with intricate carvings, frescoes, and inscriptions that present beneficial insights into the burial customs, non secular beliefs, and social construction of the traditional Maltese inhabitants. Visitors can discover the maze of underground tunnels and chambers, and marvel on the fantastically preserved frescoes.
20. Visit St. Julian’s
St. Julian’s is a vibrant and bustling city situated on the coast, and is a wonderful place to expertise Malta nightlife and distinctive eating choices. The space of Paceville, in specific, is a hub of exercise, with a plethora of golf equipment and bars that entice each locals and vacationers alike.
Food fanatics will likely be delighted to know that St. Julian’s is dwelling to among the greatest eating choices on the island, together with Michelin-starred eating places. One notable point out is Noni, a Michelin-starred restaurant that gives an beautiful menu that includes a mix of conventional Maltese and Mediterranean delicacies, ready with a contemporary twist. The tremendous eating expertise, coupled with the restaurant’s elegant ambiance, makes St. Julian’s a must-visit for meals lovers.
21. Visit the National War Museum
The National War Museum is located inside the historic Fort Saint Elmo in Valletta. Malta has fairly the navy historical past with its strategic location. The museum provides an in depth assortment that spans from the Bronze Age to the fashionable interval, with a selected concentrate on Malta’s position throughout the Second World War.
The museum is housed inside the historic Fort Saint Elmo, a key navy stronghold that has stood guard over Valletta’s harbors for hundreds of years. Visitors can discover the fort and study its historical past, structure, and position in Malta’s protection.
Visitors can be taught concerning the island’s pivotal position in the Mediterranean and the harrowing experiences of the native inhabitants throughout World War II. The George Cross, awarded to the island by King George VI in recognition of the Maltese individuals’s bravery, can be on show.
22. Visit the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum
Visit the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum: This underground burial web site is likely one of the most vital archaeological websites in Malta.
23. Explore the Dingli Cliffs
The Dingli Cliffs, situated on the western coast of Malta stand at a peak of 253 meters above sea degree. These towering cliffs are the very best level on the Maltese Islands, offering an awe-inspiring vantage level that stretches over the Mediterranean Sea.
One of the highlights of the Dingli Cliffs is the small chapel of St. Mary Magdalene, perched on the fringe of the cliffs. The chapel, constructed in the 1640s, provides to the attraction and historic significance of the realm.
There are a number of strolling and mountaineering trails alongside the cliffs, appropriate for each freshmen and extra skilled hikers. They are additionally improbable spots to watch the sundown, with the nice and cozy hues of the setting solar casting a golden glow over the panorama and the Mediterranean Sea. The tranquility and great thing about the scene make it an ideal spot for contemplation and rest.
24. Visit the Blue Grotto
Located close to the village of Qrendi, the Blue Grotto is known for its collection of sea caves and the mesmerizing blue waters that illuminate them.
To go to the Blue Grotto, you may take a ship tour from the small harbor close to Wied i?-?urrieq. These excursions sometimes final round 20-Half-hour and take you thru the principle cave, the Blue Grotto, in addition to a number of smaller caves in the realm. The boat guides present attention-grabbing commentary on the historical past and geology of the caves.
The greatest time to go to the Blue Grotto is in the morning when the daylight enters the caves and creates a wonderful show of blue reflections. The waters are additionally calmer in the morning, making for a smoother boat trip.
In addition to the boat journeys, there are a number of different actions you may get pleasure from in the realm. You can hike alongside the cliffs. There are additionally a number of well-liked mountaineering spots in the realm, in addition to alternatives for swimming and snorkeling in the clear blue waters.
25. Visit the Marsaxlokk Fishing Village
Marsaxlokk is a conventional fishing village situated in the southeastern a part of Malta is thought for its conventional “luzzu” fishing boats painted in shiny colours with the long-lasting Eye of Osiris. A go to to Marsaxlokk provides a singular glimpse into the native fishing tradition that has been an integral a part of the village’s id for hundreds of years.
The village is dwelling to a number of historic and cultural sights, corresponding to the traditional temple of Tas-Sil?, which dates again to the Neolithic interval, and the spectacular Fort Delimara, a coastal fortification constructed by the British in the nineteenth century. The charming waterfront promenade, lined with eating places and cafes, is the proper place to chill out and soak in the attractive views of the harbor and the Mediterranean Sea. A spotlight of any go to to Marsaxlokk is its full of life fish market, held each Sunday.
Furthermore, Marsaxlokk is surrounded by pure magnificence, with a number of picturesque bays and seashores close by, corresponding to St. Peter’s Pool, a pure swimming pool carved into the rocks, and the unspoiled Kalanka Bay.
26. Popeye Village
Malta has been a preferred location for filmmakers for a few years, thanks to its gorgeous landscapes, historic websites, and versatile structure. The islands have been used as a backdrop for quite a few movies and tv collection, starting from historic epics to modern dramas.
One of essentially the most well-known filming areas in Malta is the village of Sweethaven, constructed for the 1980 movie “Popeye” starring Robin Williams. Popeye Village was constructed in the idyllic Anchor Bay and was designed to resemble the fictional dwelling of the well-known cartoon character. Today, Sweethaven Village, also referred to as Popeye Village, is a well-liked vacationer attraction, providing guests the chance to discover the set, be taught concerning the making of the movie, and luxuriate in numerous themed leisure and actions.
27. Game of Thrones Tours
In addition to “Popeye,” Malta has been used as a filming location for plenty of high-profile movies and tv collection, together with “Gladiator,” “Troy,” “Munich,” and “Game of Thrones.” The island of Malta’s numerous landscapes, starting from rugged cliffs to sandy seashores, make it a flexible location that may stand in for numerous historic and fictional settings.
Moreover, the historic websites and structure of Malta, together with the medieval metropolis of Mdina, the traditional Megalithic Temples, and the imposing Fort Ricasoli, have additionally been featured in quite a few movies and tv productions.
In conclusion, Malta’s gorgeous landscapes, historic websites, and versatile structure have made it a favourite vacation spot for filmmakers from all over the world. Whether you’re a fan of “Popeye” or different blockbuster movies and tv collection, exploring the filming areas in Malta provides a singular alternative to step into the world of your favourite characters and expertise the magic of the films firsthand.
28. Ghar Dalam Cave
Ghar Dalam Cave is located in the southern a part of Malta in Birzebbuga and is a treasure trove of paleontological and archaeological wonders. The cave itself is a shocking pure surprise, boasting intricate stalactite and stalagmite formations which have been formed over millennia.
Ghar Dalam Cave is definitely accessible with ample parking and public transportation choices, Ghar Dalam Cave is supplied with customer amenities together with restrooms and a present store, making it a must-visit vacation spot for historical past buffs, nature fanatics, and households alike.
The cave is famend for its wealthy deposits of fossilized bones and artifacts courting again to the Pleistocene epoch, revealing a time when dwarf elephants, hippopotami, and large swans roamed the land. Alongside its paleontological significance, Gjar Dalam Cave has additionally yielded archaeological finds from the Neolithic interval, with a plethora of pottery, instruments, and different gadgets providing a glimpse into the lives and tradition of Malta’s historical inhabitants.
Adventurous Things to Do in Malta
This publish was initially written by Charlie and Christina of MapTrotting who stay in Malta. It has been up to date for 2023, however now we have left their favourite adventures in Malta so you may have the final word Malta expertise by locals. Here are their picks for among the coolest issues to do in Malta.
29. Sailing Adventures
Renting a self-driven boat or hopping aboard a chartered yacht is as straightforward because it will get on the island. You will likely be spoilt for selection. The crusing scene comes to life in mid-May, that’s when Malta is flooded with boats of all styles and sizes bobbing about in the azure Mediterranean Sea.
Sailing the Maltese islands is one thing that we actually loved and extremely suggest. An all-day crusing journey will see you exploring the very best of the Maltese surroundings, swimming, and snorkeling in crystal clear waters. You may even have a possibility to leap aboard a dinghy for a spooky cave tour.
One of our favourite issues to do in Malta was visiting a slightly claustrophobic cave with a seaside inside. This cave was used as the doorway to attain the jail, in the 2002 movie The Count of Monte Cristo.
30. Zip-lining in Malta
How about zip-lining from coast to coast for a simple thrill? If you need to expertise the quickest zip-line in Malta, strive the Migra 150M Zip-line on the outskirts of Rabat.
For a extra historic zip-lining journey, strive the one in Valletta, the capital of Malta. You’ll be dangling excessive over Grand Harbour as you zip away from the mighty walled fortifications.
31. Trekking in Malta
Trekking shouldn’t be one thing you’d immediately consider as one of many prime issues to do in Malta. But when planning a visit to Malta, make certain to try one of many many thrilling paths on the island. From coastal walks to exploring the traditional 2,000-year-old Roman Road, you may go on quick strolls or an all-day stroll. With beautiful panoramic views stretching over to Gozo, the sister island of Malta, the Victoria Line is a shocking hike.
Victoria Line Hike – Known regionally as ‘The Great Wall of Malta’ it’s an awesome all-day trek alongside the very best rocks on the island. The fortified defensive wall was constructed by the British proper alongside the Great Fault line dividing the island in half. Therefore this specific route offers you an awesome likelihood to see the north and the south sides of the island from on excessive. While fairly rocky, the trail is comparatively straightforward to stroll, irrespective of your health degree. It took us round 8 hours to full at a comparatively easy-going tempo, together with a few quick stops and a scenic half an hour lunch break.
There are plenty of different nice walks on the mainland of Malta, and its little sister island Gozo, which you could discover at your personal tempo. For the very best expertise, the walks are greatest explored in spring, earlier than the Mediterranean solar is simply too excessive up.
Spring can be the time when Malta wears its most wonderful pure outfit, recent from winter rain it’s studded with wildflowers and plush greens. Visit Malta provides free maps of walks across the island which you could obtain.
32. Cliff Jumping
If you’re searching for issues to do in Malta that get the adrenaline pumping, you ought to head to St Peter’s Pool on the south facet of the island. Cliff leaping into the salty blue sea right here is enjoyable and protected.
The pure pool surrounded by gorgeous white chalk cliffs is a spot the place the locals collect for a swim and an occasional recent fish BBQ. The catch of the day can is offered on the native close by fish market in quaint Marsaxlokk.
33. Off-Road Activities
The distinctive terrain and panorama of Malta can provide guests an ideal off-road expertise. In the spring months, earlier than it will get scorching scorching, land actions corresponding to off-road biking are available to check your stamina. Especially well-liked on Gozo, Jeep rides generally is a nice journey for anybody. You can both lease a 4X4 and discover the island’s rocky panorama independently or be part of a gaggle Jeep Safari tour.
There’s no scarcity of firms providing Jeep Safaris on each islands, Malta and Gozo. A tour will sometimes embrace a full day of visiting among the hottest sights of the nation with common stops en route.
We suggest excursions in Gozo as it will probably give you some fairly distinctive websites to go to alongside the best way, such because the glistening salt pans discovered close to Marsalforn. These 350-year-old saltpans are nonetheless principally in use and you’ll even purchase a bag of pure Gozitan salt by the facet of the highway.
34. Cycling Tours
Whether you’re a professional bike owner or just love biking, you may select completely different excursions to fit your health degree. Independent biking fanatics will likely be glad to hear that greater than 1,000km of recent biking routes have been developed in Malta and Gozo (and Sicily) thanks to the mission SIBIT, funded by the EU.
35. Don’t Go to the Malta National Aquarium
Many individuals suggest going to the Malta National Aquarium, however with Malta being top-of-the-line locations for snorkeling and scuba diving, why would you go to see Marinelife in enclosures? We should not followers of aquariums or zoos and issues like sharks and rays shouldn’t be saved in captivity. This aquarium in Qawra is dwelling to a variety of marine life, together with sharks, rays, and seahorses.
And these are all of the superb issues to do in Malta. Malta is a good worth for vacationers with so many issues to see and do. Have you been to this tiny island in the Mediterranean? Got one thing to add? Leave it in the feedback under.