Visiting Valletta, Malta

Malta’s capital - the walled, Lilliputian city, Valletta, bursts with history. Established during the 1500’s on a peninsula by the Knights of St. John, this perfectly located island situated in the Mediterranean Sea, will take you back in time with its antiquated feel. Malta has a mix of cultures, whilst remaining true to its history. It will offer you a peaceful holiday with beautiful beaches, it’s grand harbour and breathtaking views from its Upper Barrakka Gardens.

The small one kilometre by 600 metered island just south of Italy, is known for its historic sites related to a succession of rulers. Malta has the highest density of historic sights than any other country. Valletta was even named the European capital of culture in 2018. Numerous fortresses and megalithic, pre-historic temples feature on the island, as well as being known for its museums, palaces and grand churches. The main religion in Malta is Roman Catholic, however you will find a beguiling mix of cultures that has stewed together over generations. The Maltese also speak great English, making them friendly and easy to talk to when communicating.

What makes Valletta particularly prominent is its Grand Harbour, also known as the Port of Valletta. This natural harbour has been substantially modified over the years with extensive docks, wharves and fortifications. As you arrive at the port you will be struck by its golden-hued walls and architectural elegance. As you walk through the streets of Valletta, walk towards the Upper Barrakka Gardens. You will be greeted with a lift which takes you to the top and offers perfect, panoramic views over the harbour. The gardens give you a wider view over the city of undisturbed history. You will find a host of statues and plaques marking significant events in Maltese history, as well as dedications to famous Maltes personalities. Below the main terrace and garden you will find the Saluting Battery, where a canon once fired salutes to visiting naval vessels. Everyday at 12.00PM and 4.00PM a canon is fired, which is worth waiting for. The Upper Barrakka Gardens is a perfect spot for a snack or ice-cream, you can get this at the Upper Barrakka Kiosk. Try the famous Maltese pastiz! The views are beautiful and a lovely part of Valletta to visit. As you walk through, you will meet the Lower Barrakka Gardens in a mere 15 minute walk.

Malta is known to be a popular film location. Tv series, ‘Game of Thrones,’ was partly filmed in Malta. Films such as Gladiator (2000), Troy (2004), and Captain Phillips (2013), Assassins Creed (2016) and many more. The dramatic cliffs, stunning landscapes and ancient buildings make it the perfect backdrop, especially for films which want its viewers to feel like they have travelled back in time.

Looking at the Maltese coastline, you can understand why it is a popular location for people to go diving. Cliffs full of fossils and hidden caves and coves make it perfect for scuba divers. The coastline features rocky cliffs with sheltered bays creating clear waters.

Traditional Maltese food mixes Silican flavours with Middle Eastern. They use their own local ingredients, honey and rabbit, in many of their meals. You will have a no trouble finding a perfect dining restaurant in the Mediterranean style outlets. As tranquil as Malta is, you will also be able to find hotspots of nightlife. Sliema seafront is the perfect spot if you are looking for more of a bustling vibe; strolling along the promenade at night offers you plenty of different options. You may even be able to catch a view of Valletta from one of these bars across the strip.

With 300 days of sunshine a year, Malta is perfect for those looking for sun. The peaceful archipelago isn’t as well known as other European countries such as, Spain, Italy and Greece but is definitely worth a visit. . You can spend as little or as long as you want in Malta, but no longer than a week is typical. So, if you want a peaceful trip bursting of history, look no further than Malta.