What to do in Malta?

The Three Cities offer a great insight into Malta’s history. Vittoriosa or II-Birgu (coordinates : 35.888320, 14.522595) is considered the oldest fortification on the islands. The strategic position of both fort and city over the millennia has led some to call this area « the cradle of Maltese history ». Vittoriosa was the first home of the Knights when they arrived in 1530. As such, it contains many important architectural riches. Highlights include the Church of St. Lawrence, the Inquisitor’s Palace, the imposing Fort St. Angelo and the Maritime Museum.

Part of the Three Cities, Cospiuca (coordinates : 35.881114, 14.521736), also known as Bormla, is the largest of three and lies just opposite Valletta. The old dockyard stretches alongside the shore of Cospiuca that is now restorated to become a marina. I advise you to see in particular St Helen’s gate, Cottoner’s line of fortifications and Notre Dame Gate.

Also, part of the Three Cities, Senglea (coordinates : 35.887641, 14.516754) also known as L-Isla was fortified in 1551 by Grand Master Claude de la Sengle. The city is noted for its superb harbour views of Valletta from Safe Haven Gardens at Senglea Point. The stone vedette, known as Il-Gardjola, on the bastion-point served as a look-out post to guard the harbour entrance.

Situated 10 min from Marsaxlokk harbour at the tip of Delimara point, St. Peter’s pool is natural pool with azure water. It is surrounded with rocky beach. The rocky coast around the pool is also worth discovering.

The blue grotto is a 43 meters long and about 40 meters deep sea cave, accompanied by six other successive caves. Located near the village of Wied iz-Zurrieq, boat trips are organized to visit these caves, its massive 30 meters high arch and to contemplate its azure water on sunny days.

Hagar Qim (Ħaġar Qim) is probably the most famous Neolithic site in Malta, and it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This site not to be missed for History lovers, includes the ruins of 4 temples built between 3600 and 3200 BC. J.-C, and whose excavations began in 1839.

Ancient capital of Malta, Mdina is a fortified medieval town surrounded by bastions and strategically located on a hill in the center of Malta. Mdina is also called the “silent city” because of its calm and peaceful atmosphere. When the capital of Malta was moved from Mdina to Valletta, it became an almost deserted city. Mdina today has around 300 inhabitants. The main sites to visit are: the Natural History Museum, the Vilhena Palace, the Carmelite Church and Priory, the Falzon Palace which is a well-preserved medieval building from 1495 and the spectacular Santa Sophia Palace.

Ghajn Tuffieha Bay along with Golden Bay are considered among the most beautiful beaches in Malta. The coppery colors of the sand and their high chiseled cliffs make them magnificent raw beaches. More of that, The Ghajn Tuffieha tower built in 1637 offers a beautiful view from the top.