Malta Travel Guide

Malta Travel Guide

A Quick Intro to Malta

Located in the Mediterranean Sea between Sicily and Africa, the island of Malta has always been a country of strategic importance and has been occupied by many powers over the centuries. The Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Greeks, Arabs, Normans, French, and British have all ruled over the island at various points.

Today the country is independent and is part of the EU, although it was a British colony for over 150 years, from 1813 to 1964. When visiting Malta you’ll still notice British influences; English is a joint official language with Maltese, for example, and there are red letterboxes dotted throughout the island. Driving is on the left just like in the UK and you’ll often come across pubs serving full English breakfasts and pub grub.

The tiny capital city of Valletta was founded in 1566 and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll love its limestone streets, 16th century churches, Baroque architecture and magnificent views over the Mediterranean.

I’d also suggest visiting Mdina, which is a pedestrian city perched on a hill in the center of the island. Spend an afternoon exploring its quiet alleyways and medieval buildings. If you love seafood, head down to the fishing village of Marsaxlokk, which has numerous restaurants serving fresh fish caught straight from the ocean.

While you’re in Malta definitely plan on taking a day trip to Gozo, which is a beautiful island with turquoise blue waters, beaches, salt pans, neolithic temples and a medieval citadel.

Malta Mdina

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