Where to Go in Malta

The capital of Malta, Valletta has managed to preserve much of its 16th-century architectural heritage, like an open-air museum with its baroque-style architecture, providing a striking balance between a modern, vibrant town and an ancient city. Enveloped by walls, the UNESCO-listed city sits on a hilly peninsula between two of the Mediterranean’s finest natural harbors with magnificent views that can be enjoyed on either side. Nearly every corner hosts a historic cathedral, palazzo, monument, or intriguing museum. A scenic stroll around the colorful flora in the Upper Barrakka Gardens brings one of the best vistas of Grand Harbour. There is a wide range of wine bars, charming cafes, and restaurants serving tasty Maltese dishes that can be enjoyed alfresco, often with spectacular water views. After dark, the nightlife is buzzing, with the famous Strada Stretta (Straight Street) the thriving hub with live music venues and quirky bars.

Located in the south-east of Malta, the small, traditional fishing village of Marsaxlokk is known for its wide sheltered bay where colorful fishing boats known as luzzu, descendants of Phoenician watercraft that plied the waters during ancient times bob up and down. It’s one of the country’s most picturesque villages and its most Instagrammable spot. Strolling the waterfront is a joy, bringing the opportunity to delve into local daily life, with fishermen and their families preparing to sail, mending their nets, or repairing their boats. Every morning there’s a craft market hosted along the promenade. The old honey-hued stone cottages that fishing families once lived in have been transformed into bars and seafood eateries featuring the fresh catch that comes thanks to the local fishermen. Sunday is the liveliest day of the week with locals and visitors heading to Marsaxlokk Market to buy the freshest fish in town.

Mdina is Malta’s ancient capital of Malta, set on a hilltop at its heart with a population of less than 250. While it’s tiny, within its fortifications are many delights that include atmospheric cobbled streets lined with honey-colored walls while flowers and vibrantly painted doors provide colorful splashes throughout. It’s like stepping back in time as you stroll through this history where 4,000 years of history can be explored, with the ambiance of an open-air museum Here one can admire the impressive mix of medieval and baroque architecture in everything from magnificent palaces and well-preserved churches to the centuries-old walls. You’ll notice that it’s uniquely quiet, with cars strictly limited to emergency vehicles and those owned by residents while businesses are required to adhere to noise restrictions. There’s an odd hush, with even visitors keeping their voices down here, revealing why Mdina is known as the “silent city.”