Maltese Magic

One of the world’s smallest countries can give you the biggest of welcomes and incredible memories to treasure.

Often referred to as the “Gem of the Mediterranean”, Malta has a reputation for leaving a big impression on its visitors. Perhaps this is because they don’t know what to expect…

Memories linger, warm and vivid like a sunset over the Mediterranean. Brightly-painted wooden boats carve across Valletta’s Grand Harbour; lazy days are spent on golden sand beaches; the magnificent Blue Grotto cavern shimmers in sunlight; the scent of coffee floats through the air from cafés in sleepy side streets; a plate of slow braised rabbit in a red wine sauce is served with a generous hill of rice. Malta is a treasure trove waiting to be explored.

Rich with history

Valletta, Malta's capital city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its military fortifications, canyon-esque streets and Baroque architecture always comes as a surprise. From the imposing Fort St Elmo to the elegant marble interior of St John’s Co-Cathedral, the capital is a labyrinth of hidden treasures – museums and churches, palaces and secret gardens.

You can thank the 16th century Knights Hospitaller for Valletta’s enduring grandeur and for fortifying the island against the threat of invasion. The military influence is everywhere you look, from the massive bastions that guard the Grand Harbour and its ‘Three Cities’ (Vittoriosa, Cospicua and Senglea), to the crumbling sandstone watch towers that pepper the island’s rugged coastline.

Valetta’s Saluting Battery, is home to eight replica cannons, one of which is fired daily at midday. Watch and listen as its fired – you may need to cover your ears!

Of course, there’s more to a Malta holiday than Valletta, which hasn’t always been the islands capital. To the west, medieval Mdina was once the seat of power and this silent city (no cars are allowed inside it) slumbers behind it’s ancient walls, waiting to be explored by travellers who crave more than another day on the beach. This living museum boasts a labyrinth of narrow passageways adorned with elegant Patrician homes, baroque churches, convents, and opulent palaces.

No inland exploration is complete without a visit to Mosta, famed for its Rotunda – a huge domed church inspired by the Pantheon in Rome. The church became famous during the Second World War when a bomb crashed through its dome, but miraculously failed to explode. The village of Ta’Qali is not far away, where the art of glass-blowing can be learnt. 

An island of natural beauty

Malta’s allure extends beyond its historical cities. On the south coast you’ll find the Blue Grotto caves, a series of seven dramatic sea caves. the Blue Grotto delights thousands of visitors each year. The perfect location of these dramatic caves and the natural light combine leading to a magnificent display of blue hues on the cave walls and ceilings.

In the south you will also find the traditional fishing village of Marsaxlokk. Its stunning bay is Malta’s second largest natural harbour and is one of the best places on the island to see the colourful, traditional fishing boats – the Luzzus.

Venture to the island of Gozo and discover a tranquil oasis of natural beauty. See the shrine of Ta'Pinu set amid gorgeous countryside, while Dwejra is home to an inland saltwater lagoon which is linked to the sea by a small arch-like tunnel. Make a stop at Qala Belvedere to admire the incredible views of the coast and the island of Malta in the distance. 

Something on the menu for everyone

No visit to Malta is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Sample traditional Maltese cuisine, influenced by centuries of Mediterranean and Arab flavours. Savor the rich tastes of rabbit stew, a local delicacy beloved by both locals and visitors alike. And treat your taste buds to our favourite piece of Maltese cuisine – pastizzi. These savoury pastries often filled with ricotta cheese or mushy peas, are a popular snack enjoyed across Malta. 

The magic of Malta

But perhaps the true beauty of Malta lies in the warmth of its people. From the moment you set foot on its shores, you'll be greeted with genuine hospitality and a sense of belonging that will stay with you long after you've left. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins or lounging on a sun-drenched beach, you'll find that Malta's charm lies not only in its stunning landscapes and historical treasures but in the hearts of its people.

Malta may be small, covering just 121 square miles, but it boasts a fascinating history, beautiful beaches and wonderful food. It’s a place where African, Italian and British influences collide to create a kaleidoscope of culture and where the welcome you receive from the locals is as warm as the weather.