If you’re planning a trip to the beautiful island nation of Malta, you’re in for a treat! Malta is a small but mighty country located in the Mediterranean Sea, about 80 km south of Italy. Malta is known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and welcoming culture. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to visit in Malta, including top cities and famous landmarks.
Facts About Malta
Before we dive into the specifics, let’s take a look at some general facts about Malta that you should know before you go:
- Malta is composed of three main islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino.
- The official languages are Maltese and English.
- Malta has a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers.
- The currency used in Malta is the Euro (EUR).
- Malta has a rich history, dating back thousands of years to ancient civilizations such as the Phoenicians, Romans, and Arabs.
Top Cities to Visit in Malta
Birzebbuga (B’Bugia)
Birzebbuga, also known as B’Bugia, is a small fishing village located on the southern coast of Malta. It’s a great place to relax and soak up the sun, with its sandy beaches and clear blue waters. One of the highlights of B’Bugia is the St. George’s Bay, which is one of the most popular beaches on the island. Other attractions in B’Bugia include the Parish Church of Our Lady of Sorrows and the Ghar Dalam Cave and Museum.
Bugibba
Bugibba is a lively coastal town located on the northern coast of Malta. It’s known for its bustling promenade, which is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops. Bugibba is also home to the Malta National Aquarium, where visitors can see a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and turtles. Other attractions in Bugibba include the St. Paul’s Bay and the Bugibba Temple.
Comino
Comino is a small island located between Malta and Gozo. It’s known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. One of the most famous attractions on Comino is the Blue Lagoon, which is a sheltered bay with bright blue waters. Other attractions on Comino include the Santa Marija Tower and the Saint Mary’s Chapel.
Ghajn Tuffieha
Ghajn Tuffieha is a small beach located on the northwest coast of Malta. It’s known for its red sand and rugged cliffs, which offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Ghajn Tuffieha is a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet. Other attractions in Ghajn Tuffieha include the Ghajn Tuffieha Tower and the Majjistral Nature and History Park.
Mdina
Mdina is a fortified city located in the center of Malta. It’s known for its narrow streets, historic buildings, and stunning architecture. Mdina is often called the “silent city” because of its peaceful atmosphere. Some of the top attractions in Mdina include the St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Mdina Gate, and the Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum.
Mellieha
Mellieha is a small town located on the northern coast of Malta. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, including the Mellieha Bay, which is one of the largest and most popular beaches on the island. Mellieha is also home to the Red Tower, which is an ancient watchtower that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Other attractions in Mellieha include the Our Lady of Victory Chapel and the Parish Church of Our Lady of Victory.
Qawra
Qawra is a popular tourist destination located on the northeastern coast of Malta. It’s known for its bustling promenade, which is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops. Qawra is also home to the Malta Classic Car Collection Museum, where visitors can see a variety of classic cars from different eras. Other attractions in Qawra include the Qawra Tower and the National Aquarium Malta.
Sliema
Sliema is a coastal town located on the eastern coast of Malta. It’s known for its vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Sliema is also a great place for shopping, with a variety of high-end stores and boutiques. Some of the top attractions in Sliema include the Bisazza Street and the Tigne Point Shopping Mall.
St. Julian’s
St. Julian’s is a lively town located on the eastern coast of Malta. It’s known for its nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants. St. Julian’sis also home to the beautiful Spinola Bay, which is a popular spot for swimming and water sports. Other attractions in St. Julian’s include the Portomaso Marina and the Parish Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
Valletta
Valletta is the capital city of Malta and one of the most important cultural and historical sites on the island. It’s known for its stunning architecture, including the St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the Grand Master’s Palace. Valletta is also home to a variety of museums, including the National Museum of Archaeology and the National War Museum. Other attractions in Valletta include the Upper Barrakka Gardens and the Saluting Battery.
Summary of Top Cities to Visit in Malta:
- Birzebbuga (B’Bugia): St. George’s Bay, Parish Church of Our Lady of Sorrows, Ghar Dalam Cave and Museum.
- Bugibba: Malta National Aquarium, St. Paul’s Bay, Bugibba Temple.
- Comino: Blue Lagoon, Santa Marija Tower, Saint Mary’s Chapel.
- Ghajn Tuffieha: Ghajn Tuffieha Tower, Majjistral Nature and History Park.
- Mdina: St. Paul’s Cathedral, Mdina Gate, Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum.
- Mellieha: Mellieha Bay, Red Tower, Our Lady of Victory Chapel.
- Qawra: Malta Classic Car Collection Museum, Qawra Tower, National Aquarium Malta.
- Sliema: Bisazza Street, Tigne Point Shopping Mall.
- St. Julian’s: Spinola Bay, Portomaso Marina, Parish Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
- Valletta: St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Grand Master’s Palace, National Museum of Archaeology.
Famous Landmarks in Malta
Hagar Qim
Hagar Qim is a megalithic temple complex located on the southern coast of Malta. It dates back to approximately 3600-3200 BC and is one of the oldest standing structures in the world. The complex consists of several temples, including the main temple, which is dedicated to the goddess of fertility. Hagar Qim is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient history.
Mdina Town
As mentioned earlier, Mdina is a fortified city located in the center of Malta. It’s known for its narrow streets, historic buildings, and stunning architecture. Mdina is also home to a variety of landmarks, including the St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Mdina Gate, and the Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum. Walking through the streets of Mdina feels like stepping back in time, and it’s a great place to get a sense of Malta’s rich history.
Valletta City – Capital of Malta
Valletta is not only the capital city of Malta but also a famous landmark in its own right. It was founded in 1566 by the Knights of St. John and is known for its stunning Baroque architecture. Some of the top attractions in Valletta include the St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Grand Master’s Palace, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Valletta is also home to a variety of museums, including the National Museum of Archaeology and the National War Museum.
Victoria City – Capital of Gozo
Victoria City, also known as Rabat, is the capital city of Gozo, which is the second-largest island in Malta. It’s known for its stunning Citadel, which is a fortified city that dates back to the 16th century. Other attractions in Victoria City include the Cathedral of the Assumption, the Ta’ Kola Windmill, and the Folklore Museum.
Summary of Famous Landmarks in Malta:
- Hagar Qim: megalithic temple complex dating back to 3600-3200 BC.
- Mdina Town: fortified city known for its historic buildings and architecture. St. Paul’s Cathedral, Mdina Gate, and Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum are popular landmarks.
- Valletta City – Capital of Malta: capital city known for its Baroque architecture. St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Grand Master’s Palace, and Upper Barrakka Gardens are popular landmarks.
- Victoria City – Capital of Gozo: capital city of Gozo known for its Citadel, Cathedral of the Assumption, Ta’ Kola Windmill, and Folklore Museum.
Conclusion
Malta is a beautiful island nation with a rich history and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in ancient history, modern culture, or simply relaxing on the beach, there’s something for everyone in Malta. From the bustling towns of Sliema and St. Julian’s to the peaceful beaches of Comino and Ghajn Tuffieha, there are endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. And of course, no trip to Malta would be complete without visiting some of the famous landmarks, such as Hagar Qim and the Citadel in Victoria City.
We hope this article has given you a good overview of the best places to visit in Malta. Whether you’re planning a short trip or a longer stay, be sure to check out these top cities and famous landmarks for an unforgettable experience.
