Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua are seen as the cradle of Maltese history for having provided a refuge for almost all the settlers who came to these islands. A five-minute ferry ride from Valletta, they’re one of the best places to see authentic local life in action –especially on a holy day or festa, when they are at their most compelling. During the Easter processions, for instance, statues of the Risen Christ are carried briskly through the thronged streets.
The Three Cities were the first homes to the Knights of St John, meaning their palaces, churches, forts and bastions are much older than Valletta’s. There are also gorgeously restored Maltese townhouses, a glamorous marina filled with super-yachts, and superb waterside restaurants. The best way to see the Three Cities is by electric self-drive buggy known as a 'Rolling Geek' with a pre-programmed GPS and a dashboard-mounted iPad for taking selfies.
Religious feasts (festas) are integral to Maltese culture and tradition and you might happen upon one from May to September while exploring either Malta or Gozo (some are national holidays, including the Feast of Santa Marija in mid-August). As well as honouring parish’s patron saints with religious elements, they feature regional food sold from stalls and street carts and music from local bands. A big festa is the harvest festival of Mnarja at the end of June.