When it comes to warm weather and relaxing days by the pool, Malta is a dream and a well-known destination for its summer holidays. With that said, the more adventurous travellers also head here for the fantastic diving spots with historical shipwrecks to explore. But what about Malta’s wonderful cities as they have so many stories to tell! 

From the artistic 16th century UNESCO capital city of Valletta, Mdina, Malta’s medieval capital and sleepy Victoria over in Gozo, these three fascinating cities offer charm, beautiful scenery and history. There is a reason why Malta is one of the world’s most popular filming destinations! We believe Malta is a city break destination it its own right and here are the reasons why……... 

VALLETTA

Commonly referred to as the “Island of Honey”, its evidently clear that there are many reasons as to why. With a majority of Malta being built from the local honey-coloured limestone and combined with the impressive 300 days of guaranteed sunshine, it makes quite a sight to observe as the cities appear to radiate with a majestic golden glow. This is no exception in Valetta, the capital city as it boasts an awe-inspiring “golden stone fortress” with such ancient characteristics that it in fact gives off a real essence of being transported back in time through pages of a history book. 

With over 320 historical sites, to say there is a lot to do in Valletta would be an understatement. It goes without saying that Valletta’s architecture is impressive, particularly the Grandmaster Palace Courtyard and the beautiful St John’s Co-Cathedral, both extra special sites to witness and infused with historical significance. Sit back and absorb the true beauty from the Upper Barrakka Gardens, where you will be able to see magnificent panoramic views of the Grand Harbour, large enough to dock thousands of boats, making it one of the largest marinas in the world.  

Following from a jam-packed day of sightseeing, you can wind down by taking a relaxing stroll in the romantic Lower Barrakka Gardens dotted with monuments, plaques and a 10-ton bronze bell of commemoration for those who died in the two-year siege of Malta.  

And we haven’t even got to the food scene yet! With its selection of cool cafes and lavish restaurants, Valletta will make those essential stops a people watchers dream and the perfect opportunity to soak up the city's vibrant atmosphere. 

Top Tip: If Valletta leave you wanting to see more then you are definitely in luck! “Three Cities” is the collective name of three other protected cities in Malta; Birgu, Senglea and Cospicua, of which all three can be explored in a fun and exciting way by hiring an electric-powered car from the Rolling Greeks.  

MDINA

Let's not forget about the one that has come to be known as the “Silent City”, Mdina. Malta’s old capital, once home to Malta’s past royalty, dating back an incredible 4,000 years! Surrounded by protected bastion walls, its tranquil atmosphere and collection of preserved buildings brings a timeless feel to it with lots to appreciate such as beautiful, cobbled streets lined with baroque and medieval architecture, an array of museums and a selection of laid-back wine bars. 

As the city is perched on top of a hill, roughly 250 metres above sea level, the views most certainly pack a punch where you can sit back and fully appreciate the views of the rest of the island. Other attractions not to be missed include the filming location for Kings Landing in the Game of Thrones, Palazzo De Piro, an arts and culture centre with ongoing programmes such as art exhibitions and artisan markets and the stunning Baroque Cathedral.  

If you budget allows it, visit De Mondion, a Michelin star restaurant, definitely worth a visit and splashing out on. Set inside the 16th century building of the lavish Xara Palace Hotel on the top floor, you will be spoiled with sensational views whilst dining in flavoursome Mediterranean dishes of the best produce the island has to offer.  

VICTORIA (RABAT)

Previously known as Rabat to the local Maltese, the city of Victoria is over on the smaller, sleepier island of Gozo. The city actually changed it name in 1887 in dedication of Queen Victoria in her Jubilee year. Right in the centre of Gozo, the small walled city of Victoria is something that can’t be missed as almost all of the roads on the island lead to here! When in Victoria, why not take a stroll around the museums, cathedrals, and most importantly, the Cittadella. Commonly known as Castello, this is Victoria’s most popular attraction and impressively dates back to 1500 BC! Another iconic attraction not to miss is St George’s Basilica, situated right in the centre of Victoria. As the most important church in Gozo both architecturally and artistically, be sure to have your camera at the ready! Although Victoria is on the neighbouring island of Gozo, it is relatively easy to travel between Malta and Gozo, with ferries departing every 30 minutes during the peak summertime and an approximate journey time of 25 minutes, makes an easy day trip.  

SOMETHING DIFFERENT

Once you have had your fill of protected, historical cities, fancy trying something a little different?  

Just a few miles from the village of Mellieha is the picturesque film set of the 1980s Popeye Village. Now converted into a fun park, it’s a great spot when travelling with little ones. 

A DESTINATION FOR ALL SEASONS

Malta is the perfect city break for all seasons with mild winters and scorching hot throughout the summer and just a three-hour flight away. As a relatively small island, you can explore somewhere new each day, turning into an adventurous holiday filled with excursions, of which can be combined with some seriously overdue relaxation by the pool. As nothing is too far away on the island, it is quite possible to get to know all of its cities in just one trip. To find out more, contact us today and we can start helping you plan your break to Malta