Malta has so much to offer!
I was invited to Malta in March this year (2024) and I have to say a Malta has so much to offer! A long weekend in Malta and Gozo offers a perfect mix of history, stunning beaches, and charming villages. Here’s a great itinerary:
Day 1: Explore Valletta and Mdina
• Valletta: Start your journey in Malta’s capital, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the St. John’s Co-Cathedral, home to Caravaggio's masterpiece, The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist. Explore the Upper Barrakka Gardens for panoramic views of the Grand Harbour. Stroll down the quaint streets to visit landmarks like the Auberge de Castille and the National Museum of Archaeology.
• Lunch: Grab lunch at one of Valletta’s open-air restaurants overlooking the harbour.
• Mdina: In the afternoon, head to Mdina, the ancient walled city known as the "Silent City." Wander through its narrow, quiet streets, visit St. Paul's Cathedral, and enjoy views from the bastion walls.
• Dinner: Dine in Mdina’s atmospheric restaurants like Fontanella Tea Garden, famous for its views and cakes.
Day 2: Beaches and History
• Blue Lagoon (Comino): Take a morning boat trip to Comino Island and enjoy the stunning Blue Lagoon, famous for its crystal-clear waters. Swim, snorkel, or relax on the boat. Comino is uninhabited, so it offers a peaceful escape.
• Golden Bay Beach: After Comino, head to Golden Bay Beach on the main island for some sunbathing or water sports.
• Dinner: Head to St. Julian's for a lively dinner by the sea. This area is bustling with restaurants and nightlife.
Day 3: Day Trip to Gozo
• Ferry to Gozo: In the morning, catch the ferry to Gozo, Malta's quieter sister island.
• Victoria (Rabat): Visit the island’s capital, Victoria, and explore the Cittadella, a hilltop fortress offering 360-degree views of the island.
• Azure Window Ruins and Dwejra Bay: Check out the Dwejra Bay area, where the iconic Azure Window once stood. Although the arch has collapsed, the bay remains one of the island’s most beautiful spots, perfect for snorkelling or diving.
• Ramla Bay: Relax at Ramla Bay, a beach famous for its red sand, before heading back to the ferry.
• Dinner in Gozo: Enjoy a traditional Gozitan meal before returning to Malta.
Bonus: Evening in Marsaxlokk
If time allows, visit the fishing village of Marsaxlokk on your way back. Enjoy fresh seafood while admiring the colourful luzzu boats bobbing in the harbour.
Travel Tips:
• Best Time to Visit: Late Spring and early autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
• Getting Around: Public transportation is good, but renting a car or using taxis may give you more flexibility, especially in Gozo.
• Local Food: Try traditional Maltese dishes like rabbit stew (Fenkata), pastizzi (savoury pastries), and Ftira (Maltese bread).
This itinerary balances relaxation, history, and the stunning natural beauty of Malta and Gozo, perfect for a long weekend escape! To book this or for a longer stay just get in touch with me.