Blessed with 3,000 hours of sunshine each year, Malta is a dreamy destination that should be at the top of your bucket list.
This enchanting Mediterranean hotspot and its sister islands of Gozo and Comino are jam-packed with adventure and excitement, delivering delights aplenty for every visitor. You’ll discover jaw-dropping scenery, rich culture, fabulous food, enchanting architecture and superb outdoor attractions. Families will have the chance to make unforgettable memories on the blissful beaches, while couples can enjoy romantic moments on a sunset boat trip or dining in one of many intimate restaurants. Solo explorers will find lots to do, while the pulsating nightlife on offer is sure to appeal to fun-loving friends. To help you make the most of your getaway, here’s 5 must-dos for a truly magical Malta holiday. Choose from the plethora of superb 3-star, 4-star and 5-star hotels Holiday Gems has on offer and prepare for a getaway full of unmissable experiences.
Discover a rich history that’s spanned centuries on your Malta holiday. The perfect destination for culture lovers, you can wander through ancient streets and admire breathtaking architecture. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ġgantija temples, to view remnants from the prehistoric period, or stay in Valletta, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to experience the “European Capital of Culture”. Venture to Malta’s former capital city, Mdina, where you’ll be awed by the authentic medieval structures, like the city walks and iconic gate, as well as the explorable catacombs hidden beneath the streets. This jaw-dropping site was also famously used as a filming location in Game of Thrones. Immerse yourself into the history and heritage of Malta by touring St John’s Co Cathedral, Lascaris War Rooms and the Maritime Museum. You should also make sure to visit Café Cordinna, the island’s oldest coffee shop based in the heart of Valletta.
Take The Plunge
Dive into the inviting Mediterranean sea to discover an underwater paradise that’s filled with possibilities. Malta’s year-round warm weather means you can get active on the surface or take the plunge to explore the depths. Scuba dive to one of the many shipwreck sites surrounding the coast or snorkel in the shallows and admire a plethora of colourful fish. Jet skiing, parasailing, waterskiing, wakeboarding and banana boating are also immensely popular aquatic activities. Neighbouring island Comino is where you’ll find the mesmerising Blue Lagoon, which provides delightful swimming opportunities. Those who wish to remain dry will enjoy a boat ride around the island or a sunset catamaran cruise to experience extraordinary views in picture-perfect surroundings. Feel the soft sand beneath your toes at stunning beaches like the family-friendly Mellieha Beach, Blue Flag-certified Golden Bay and Armier Bay, where you’ll discover inspiring views of Gozo Island.
Get Active
There’s plenty of activities on offer across this Mediterranean island, with Malta's incredible natural beauty acting as a mesmerising backdrop. Enjoy a hike through the varying landscapes, admiring Malta’s numerous caves and cliffs. Gozo is also a hiking hotspot you should tick off your bucket list. Cycling is another popular excursion in Malta, with coastal roads, cobblestoned old towns, country lanes and ancient ruins to investigate. Trek along the beachfront on horse back or take in the sights of the cliffs and rural trails. A sunset ride is a magical way to spend the evening, whether you’re alone, as a couple or with your whole family. Thrill-seekers will love the 1,300 different rock climbing and abseiling routes located across Malta. These are a fun experience for every age and every ability as you can choose either a guided tour or a solo adventure.
Join The Party
Malta invites all night owls on to its lively streets where no two evenings are the same. Stop by one of the many bars, clubs, lounges, theatres or casinos to let loose and cast all your worries away. The capital, Valletta, is home to swanky wine and cocktails bars. Dress up in your best ensembles to enjoy the upmarket and chic establishments here, with fine-dining restaurants promising to start your night off on the right foot. St Julian’s is a booming hotspot with an array of vibrant options to choose from, including numerous nightclubs and the largest casino on the island. Court lady luck here and try your hand at blackjack, poker and American roulette as well as much more, all available 24 hours a day. Good vibes can be found in the daytime too, with beach and pool clubs, like Café del Mar in St Paul’s Bay, providing chilled music and refreshing beverages.
Discover Culinary Delights
A holiday to Malta will take you on a journey of culinary delights that's influenced by the Mediterranean, Sicily, North Africa and the Middle East. The staples of this cuisine are cheese, bread, olive oil and, most importantly, honey. Beekeeping and honey harvesting are some of the oldest traditions on the island, with Malta’s original name deriving from the ancient Greek word for honey. Sample an abundance of recipes during your getaway, including the national dish, stuffat tal-fenek, and the popular desert, Pinjolata. This cake is usually reserved for times of celebration, like Carnival, and what would be more perfect to celebrate your unparalleled holiday to Malta? Dine in style while on the island, with a number of Michelin-starred restaurants located in some truly stunning areas. You can expect great dishes crafted by noteworthy chefs as well as tantalising wines and sublime views of the Mediterranean sea.
Best time to visit
Boasting 300 sunny days annually, there really is no bad time to visit Malta. The summer months of July and August see temperatures peak at 31℃, providing the perfect conditions for soaking up some divine Mediterranean sunshine on one of the many beaches or enjoying a cocktail poolside at your resort. Winter is by no means cold, with temperatures remaining a mild 15 to 20℃ between December and February. With this glorious weather, you can choose between a sublime summer holiday or some rejuvenating winter sun. If you’re looking to enjoy the warmth but avoid the crowds, October, November, April and May are the best months because they’re on the cusp of the summer and Malta’s tourist season. Likewise, Malta is a wonderful choice for family holidays as conditions don’t get too intense, remaining pleasant year-round with a coastal wind to keep everyone cool. Valletta is regarded as the sunniest city in Europe, so be sure to visit to see all of the highlights Malta has to offer.
“We can’t recommend a holiday to Malta enough. With culture, beautiful scenery, ancient cities and exciting outdoor activities, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy a magical getaway.
“Explore historical streets in towns and cities that are bursting with secrets and legends in spectacular sunshine or soak up some rays on the many picturesque beaches. The warm Mediterranean Sea is a marine wonderland for those who want to enjoy thrilling water sports.
“Luxury hotels are located across the island in a range of budgets so you can experience your dream holiday to Malta. Take advantage of all of the top-quality amenities, like the spa, swimming pools, restaurants and bars.
“Be sure to try some of the exquisite cuisine. Whether it's a local family-run eatery serving traditional dishes or a Michelin-starred venue offering innovative and exciting concoctions, you’ll be taken on a journey of the senses while staying in paradise.”
Travel expert recommendation
Qawra Palace Resort & Spa
Relax, unwind and have fun on the sun-kissed shores of Malta with a fabulous stay at this splendid holiday haven. Complete comfort can be expected in your stylish living space, while mouthwatering dishes are on the menu in the restaurants, and thirst-quenching drinks served in the bars. Other impressive amenities to discover include a swimming pool, spa, gym, mini golf course and a games room.
Discover the delights of Mediterranean island living with a sunshine escape at this wonderful 5-star sanctuary. Relax beside the glistening swimming pool, enjoy blissful pampering sessions in the plush spa and embrace carefree moments as the little ones are kept occupied at the kids club. That’s not all, however, with superb restaurants also on offer, as well as bright and spacious rooms and suites.
Make yourself right at home during your Malta holiday with a break in the stylish surrounds of this sensational seafront retreat. Features such as a private beach club, swimming pool, fitness centre, spa and casino are sure to impress, while you can expect modern accommodation filled with all the essential amenities. International, local and Mediterranean dishes are on offer in the hotel’s dining venues, while you’ll find an array of shops, restaurants and entertainment destinations located nearby.
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