Malta
Malta isn’t a stereotypical European destination for Americans, but it ended up being one of the most interesting places I’ve ever visited. History, parties, beaches, and more. It’s a unique blend of British, Ottoman and North African, but undoubtedly Maltese. Here’s how to thrive in Malta.
Rent a car (from a tourist nick-nack shop, of course) and drive around - here’s your route:
Popeyes Village: Pay the entry fee and have a good time where Robin Williams once filmed Popeye. There’s a restaurant (for a fee), some shops, a free boat tour, and a beach, along with popcorn and a movie, all included in your ticket. Plus, the views, absolute fire.
Stop by at Riviera beach: It’s one of the best on the island, so on busy weekends, walk literally all the way to the end of the beach. And on the walk, detour to the Clay Cliffs for some more dope views. We ended up getting lucky and basically stealing a cabana that another family had paid for, so the last hour or so of our time here was quite nice. Otherwise, it was super crowded, but we were also there on the equivalent of Maltese Fourth of July.
Ferry across to Gozo: Follow the signs, and it’s easy to figure out yourself. Tickets are cheap, and you don’t need to book too far in advance at all.
While in Gozo, go to the Inland Sea. It is absolutely awesome. Swim through a tunnel out into the open ocean and avoid getting hit by one of the boats that drive through every 8 minutes. This is a must.
After swimming through and around the lagoon of the Inland Sea, walk over to the ruins of the Azure window. This used to be the postcard image of the country of Malta but was destroyed by a huge storm a few years ago. Now, there are deep pools and fascinating rock formations that make this environment feel as though it’s extracted straight from Mars.
Then drive to the Wied il-Ghasri. It’s a narrow cove almost designed for Instagram. Just watch out for the jellyfish that like dark places (I got stung and while it wasn’t bad at all, it wasn’t necessarily ideal either).
For history buffs, definitely check out the Ggantija Temples. This is one of the earliest built structures in the world, so it’s definitely worth a visit.
On the history buff topic, the hilltop medieval city of Victoria is stunning, with great views over Gozo. Be sure to check out the Basilica of Ta’Pinu as well. Somehow, the fact that this Basilica stands alone makes it that much more impressive.
Anyways, that bit was Gozo. Back to Malta.
Roam around Mdina
The ancient capital of Malta and a filming spot for Game of Thrones, this place is absolutely dope. Get lost walking through the maze of alleys and enjoy beautiful views over the island from the Fontanella Tea garden, with some seriously bomb pasta and dessert.
Walk around Valletta
The capital of Malta, the smallest European capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage site itself. The perfect grid of the city is easy to navigate and makes for stunning photographs.
In Valletta, make sure to see the National War Museum (prepare to deal with some serious heat), the Upper Barrakka Gardens (make sure you go at either 12 or 4 to see the canon firing), St. Pauls Cathedral, St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and the Triton Fountain.
Views from the Fort St. Elmo
Eat at Rampila
With views over the city walls on the patio, an interior setting made to look like a wine cellar, and fantastic food to top it off, this was our favorite restaurant in Valletta.
Make your way to the Valletta Waterfront (when there are no cruise ships in port)
Malta has become an increasingly popular port of call in recent years, and as a result, they have developed a nice little waterfront area to accommodate this influx of tourists. When no cruise ships are in, it becomes a quiet place to escape the city of Valletta with decent enough food options (we ate at Brown’s and had a great time with fine food).
Party in Paceville
This is where all the British 20-something-year-old’s go. Take it or leave it. It’s a bit of Cabo in Malta, which we got a total kick out of. Anything with the name Hugo’s in Paceville is sure to be a good time. Hugo’s Terrace and Rooftop was a nice pitstop for a drink, as was Infinity by Hugo’s (it was Latin night, which is always a blast).
Party in an aquarium
Or actually, just next to one. Cafe del Mar is the premier pool club on the island. Check out the calendar for some big name performers (we watched Robin Schulz perform - saw him in Barcelona as well and let’s just say he was far better in Barcelona, but still, pretty cool). Note - definitely worth getting a cabana with some shade. Not really that pricey either.
Sunset views from Cafe del Mar are incredible
Eat a traditional Maltese meal at Gululu
Located in Spinola Bay, one of the most picturesque settings you’ll ever have a meal in, this place was fantastic. The food was traditional, the staff was helpful in picking out what to eat, and the views were just the cherry on time as nighttime took over.
So that’s Malta! I seriously can not recommend it enough. There really is something for everyone on this tiny little island. Plus, it’s pretty cheap in comparison to many other Mediterannean Islands (I’m looking at you, Mykonos and Capri), so go go go!