Malta City Guide

Reaching Malta is convenient thanks to its excellent air and sea connections. Malta International Airport (MLA), located just outside the capital city of Valletta, serves as the main gateway to the island. The airport connects Malta to numerous European cities with direct flights, making it easily accessible from major hubs like London, Rome, Paris, and Frankfurt. Budget airlines and national carriers frequently operate routes to Malta, offering options for travelers with varying budgets.

For those arriving by sea, ferries provide a scenic alternative. Regular services operate from Sicily, with routes from Pozzallo and Catania taking just a few hours. These ferries are a popular choice for travelers combining Italy and Malta in one trip.

Additionally, cruise ships frequently dock in Valletta's Grand Harbour, allowing passengers to explore the island as part of Mediterranean itineraries. Whether by air or sea, reaching Malta is both straightforward and enjoyable, setting the stage for a memorable experience.

• Public Transport: Buses are the main mode of transport, connecting most towns and attractions. A weekly travel card offers good value for frequent travelers.
• Car Rentals: Driving allows you to explore at your own pace, but remember that Malta drives on the left side of the road.
• Ferries: Regular ferries connect Malta to Gozo and Comino, making island-hopping convenient.
• Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis are available, but rideshare apps like Bolt are often more affordable.
• Walking: Many areas, like Valletta and Mdina, are best explored on foot due to their compact size.

Malta offers a diverse shopping experience, blending traditional crafts with modern retail options. The capital city, Valletta, is a hub for unique and handmade items. Stroll through its charming streets to discover local boutiques offering traditional Maltese lace, silver filigree jewelry, and artisanal crafts. The city's markets, like Is-Suq Tal-Belt, also feature a mix of local produce, artisanal products, and delicious street food.

For a modern shopping experience, head to Sliema and St. Julian's, where you'll find contemporary malls like The Point. These locations feature a variety of international brands, luxury goods, and trendy clothing stores. Meanwhile, the Marsaxlokk Market is a must-visit for its colorful ambiance and fresh seafood. Held every Sunday, it's an excellent place to pick up local treats, handmade crafts, and souvenirs while enjoying the picturesque harbor view.

If you're visiting Gozo, don't miss the Gozo Crafts Village in Ta' Dbiegi. Here, you can watch local artisans at work, creating traditional pottery, glass-blown ornaments, and other unique crafts. These beautifully made items provide insight into Malta's artistic heritage and are perfect for those seeking authentic, high-quality souvenirs. Whether you're exploring boutique stores or bustling markets, Malta offers a shopping experience that caters to all tastes.

• Traditional Maltese Cuisine: Indulge in local favorites like rabbit stew (fenkata), pastizzi (savory pastries), and kapunata (Maltese ratatouille) at authentic restaurants such as Ta' Kris in Sliema.
• Seafood Delights: Relish freshly caught seafood in the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk or at waterfront eateries in St. Julian's.
• Casual Dining: Enjoy Maltese pizzas and sharing platters at cozy, family-run trattorias.
• International Cuisine: Explore a variety of global flavors, from Italian and Mediterranean to Asian fusion, at restaurants in Valletta and St. Julian's.
• Desserts: Satisfy your sweet tooth with traditional treats like kannoli, imqaret (date-filled pastries), and honey rings.
• Wine Bars: Sample local wines paired with small plates at boutique wine bars in Valletta or Mdina for a relaxed evening.
• Street Food: Grab quick bites like a Maltese ftira sandwich or grilled octopus from street vendors or food markets across the island.

Malta's nightlife is diverse and dynamic, with St. Julian's and St. Paul's Bay offering two distinct experiences. St. Julian's, particularly in the Paceville district, is the heart of Malta's party scene. It's packed with vibrant nightclubs, lively bars, and bustling pubs where you can dance the night away or enjoy cocktails with friends. Popular spots include open-air clubs, rooftop lounges with stunning views, and themed venues catering to different music tastes, from house and techno to live rock performances.

In contrast, St. Paul's Bay offers a more laid-back and relaxed nightlife experience. Here, you can unwind at waterfront bars, sip cocktails while watching the sunset, or enjoy live acoustic music in cozy venues. The promenade in Bugibba and Qawra, both part of St. Paul's Bay, is lined with charming pubs and casual eateries that come alive at night with a mix of locals and tourists. Whether you're looking for high-energy parties in St. Julian's or a chilled evening by the sea in St. Paul's Bay, Malta's nightlife has something to suit every mood.

Explore Comino Beyond the Blue Lagoon

While the Blue Lagoon is a must-visit, head to the quieter parts of Comino Island, like Santa Marija Bay, for a more peaceful swim and fewer crowds. The island also offers scenic hiking trails with stunning views of the Mediterranean.

Silent Sunset in Mdina

Mdina, known as the Silent City, is most magical at sunset. The ramparts provide panoramic views of the island as the sky turns golden. Afterward, wander the dimly lit streets for a truly atmospheric experience.

Local Feasts and Village Celebrations

Every weekend in summer, Maltese villages host festas with fireworks, traditional music, and local food stalls. These vibrant celebrations offer a glimpse into Maltese culture and are free to attend. Check out St. Mary's Feast in Mosta or St. Paul's Feast in Rabat for a lively experience.

Hidden Beach at Għar Lapsi

Skip the busier beaches and head to Għar Lapsi, a rocky cove near Siggiewi. This spot is popular with locals for snorkeling and swimming in crystal-clear waters. There are also small, affordable eateries nearby serving fresh fish.

Affordable Local Eats

Instead of tourist restaurants, visit village pastizzerias to try pastizzi (flaky pastries filled with ricotta or peas) for just €0.50-€1 each. Don't miss Is-Serkin in Rabat, a favorite among locals.

Marsaxlokk Early Morning Market

Visit the Marsaxlokk Fish Market early on a Sunday morning to watch fishermen unloading their catch of the day. It's quieter and more authentic before the tourist crowds arrive.