What is Malta known for?

Sun, sea, and beautiful beaches are all things Malta. However, there`s so much more to Malta than golden sands and blue waves, but it`s undeniable that Malta`s beautiful coast is one of the Mediterranean`s most stunning landscapes.

Firstly, Malta`s dramatic cliffs, stunning landscapes, and ancient buildings has been the backdrop for many major movie productions. Game of Thrones, Gladiator and Troy are just a few of the major big names in Hollywood which make Malta famous for film locations. `Pirates of the Caribbean` franchised also passed off a few Maltese landscapes as Caribbean beaches.

Malta is also famous for its interesting history with some of the oldest structures in the world. The country is home to the world’s oldest temples. The temples of Imnajdra or Ggantija are much older than Macchu Pichu of Peru or the Pyramids in Egypt. They are prehistoric and go back to thousands of years. The temples of Malta are all UNESCO World Heritage sites. Malta`s capital city of Valletta and the prehistoric Hypogeum are also UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Malta is a diving and snorkeling hotspot! The Maltese islands (Malta, Comino and Gozo) are rich with crystal sea waters. Besides its beaches all along the coast, the Blue Lagoon is famous worldwide.

The beautiful weather is another reason Malta gets its fame. To know Malta is to know it`s warm climate and quantity of sunny days. Malta produces 300 days of sunshine on average!

Lastly, Malta is famous for its food, with cuisine that is so varied from anywhere else in the world. While you`re touring Valletta, be sure to try a ricotta filled filo-pastry Pastizzi. Ideally, this should be washed down with a can of Kinnie, which is a local soft drink made with chinotto bitter oranges and a special blend of herbs and spices. For dinner, you should try the rabbit, which is a Maltese specialty, especially when slowly cooked with onions and wine. If you still have room, Imqaret, or fig cakes, are a delicious sweet snack that you can find on every street corner.

What are the best places to visit in Malta?

Malta's palm-tree fringed landscape is dotted with picturesque hilltop towns, peaceful seaports, colorful old fishing villages, and natural attractions. The capital of Valletta is an ideal base to explore the Island of Malta. Tourists will appreciate Valletta`s array of hotels, restaurants, historical sites, and cultural events.

Across the harbor, Sliema has less culture but more entertainment options and caters to students on school breaks. The Island of Gozo is the best choice for relaxing beach vacations. And although Gozo is less developed than Malta, the island has plenty of cultural attractsion: a fortified medieval city, Victoria; a seaside resort, Maralforn; and the most important archaeological site of the Maltese Islands, Ggantija Temples, dating back to around 3500 BC.

Comino Island is the other island that makes up the Maltese Islands. It is a very small (and very peaceful) island situated between Malta and Gozo. The island is inhabited by only a handful of people and is a great stop for a day trip of hiking and exploring.

While in Malta, take some time discovering the elegant capital, Valletta. It is easy to navigate and bounded by two harbors: the Grand Harbor and Marsamxett Harbor. The heart of the city is Saint John`s Co-Cathedral, a 16th century church built by the different Orders of the Knights.

Take some time exploring the Medieval Hilltop Town of Mdina, a UNESCO World Heritage site steeped in history. Another historical attraction worth visiting just outside the Mdina ramparts is the town of Rabat. Some other highlights on the main island of Malta you won`t want to miss: Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, a Neolithic Cult Site; Prehistoric Tarxien Temples; The Blue Grotto; Dingli Cliffs; Golden Bay Beach; Ghajn Tuffieha Bay and Gnejna Bay Beaches; The Seaside Charm of Mellieha; Hagar Qim Temples, A Prehistoric Megalithic Site; Mnajdra Temples of the Maltese Bronze Age; Siggiewi, a Traditional Maltese Village; The Country Village of Zebbug; Family Fun Times at Popeye Village, and so much more!

When is the best time to visit Malta?

With a Mediterranean climate, it’s never too cold in Malta. In the winter, you’ll find temps between 50 to 60, while summer days range from the low 70s to 90.

High Season: June to August gets packed with visitors in Malta. Hotels are booked solid and the beaches can get over crowed. Things also get busy again briefly from Christmas to New Years. Plan ahead if you`re coming for high season!

Holidays: You could write a book on the number of celebrations and holidays they have here! During the summer you`ll find festivals for art, jazz, beer, and wine along with the annual Isle of MTV event.

What the best time to visit for you will depend on why you`re traveling and what type of Malta holiday you`re looking for. For more information on this, check out Best Time to Visit Malta.

How many days should I spend in Malta?

We recommend 7-10 days based on what you want to see and do. We offer flexible vacation packages so you can select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities. We suggest a minimum of 3 nights in larger cities.

What is the best way to get around Malta?

Taxis: The islands are small so taxis are affordable and the most common means of getting around. Watch for an official white taxi car and make sure they turn on the meter.

Public Transport: Public transport is reliable and goes to most tourist destinations. If you think you`ll use it regularly, you can grab a 12-trip card for about15 euros.

Ferry: To get from Malta to the other two islands, Comino and Gozo, you`ll need to go by ferry. During most of the year, the ferries leave at least once per hour and it takes less than 30 minutes.

Walking: Both Malta and Gozo Island have Coastal Walks. These are paths you can take to walk around the entire island. The routes and terrain vary, but if you are up for it, this is a great way to see lots of different views!

For more information, check out Getting Around Malta.

What is the currency of Malta?

The currency of Malta is the Euro. US dollars are not accepted. Please be sure to have the correct currency on hand or be prepared to exchange your dollars for euros upon arrival. Currency exchange desks can be found at the airport and many locations throughout the city. For more detailed information, consult our guide by clicking here Tipping in Malta.

Do people speak English in Malta?

Most natives speak Maltese, and nearly 90% speak English, while another 50% also speak Italian. English may be spoken at your hotel and in the tourist areas. We suggest you get a good English-Maltese guidebook and familiarize yourself with common phrases such as hello, goodbye, excuse me and numbers 1-10.