Attractions and experiences in Malta
While you're in Malta, we encourage you to explore some of the island's beautiful and historic sites, each with its own unique charm and affordable experiences:
Mdina
Known as The Silent City, Mdina is an ancient fortified town and a former capital of Malta, offering a step back in time with its narrow streets and stunning views. Its impressive walls and grand architecture make it feel like a large fortress. Visit the Mdina Museum for around €6.50 per person, where you can delve into the history of the Knights of St. John and the Great Siege of 1565. Afterward, stop by Fontanella Tea Garden for lunch and a slice of their famous cake. Be sure to request a seat on the top floor to enjoy the view. Later, visit Crystal Palace (Is-Serkin) to try Malta's beloved pastizzi, a budget-friendly treat priced at around €0.50-1 each.
Valletta (the capital city)
If you're a fan of shopping, Valletta is a fantastic destination with a mix of modern stores and local gold and silver jewelry shops, offering unique and authentic pieces. Gold, and especially silver, are often more affordable here in Malta, as many local shops typically charge only for the weight, without adding extra costs for the design. For a spectacular view, visit the Upper Barrakka Gardens and watch the traditional cannon firing at noon. When you're hungry, Da Sandro Pasta and Pizza offers delicious local dishes, with pasta or pizza. It's a popular and cozy spot, so booking ahead is advisable. If you're craving something sweet but not too unhealthy, give Mettelina's Cupcake Cafe a visit. She's a Danish friend of the family who started a café here, offering the best Danish-inspired cupcakes that aren't too unhealthy.
The Blue Lagoon on Comino island
A day trip to the Blue Lagoon is a must for swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Boat rides to the lagoon vary in price, starting at approximately €10 for a basic round-trip ticket. You can pay a little extra (around €15 in total) for tours that include stops at some of the grottoes on the way. Once you arrive, there are food stalls where you can buy snacks or a quick meal.
Paceville in St. Julian's
Known as the nightlife hub, Paceville offers a vibrant scene with bars, clubs, and restaurants. It's a hotspot for affordable drinks and a lively atmosphere, making it perfect for a fun night out. For those seeking strong drinks at unbeatable prices, Big G is a popular choice, offering cocktails for just €6, with 75% of your glass filled with alcohol. While the drinks aren’t particularly refined, it’s the place to go for a quick buzz. If you’re after something that tastes a little better but still cheap, The Anvil Pub is a great alternative. Here, you can enjoy a pitcher of drinks for only €7.50, though they lean more toward a lighter taste and less of a strong alcoholic flavor. As always, remember to enjoy responsibly, as the nightlife here can get quite wild after dark.
Tourist Tips and Tricks
Weather
October in Malta offers mild and pleasant weather, perfect for an outdoor celebration. Daytime temperatures typically range between 24-27°C, with cooler evenings around 18-20°C. Light and breathable clothing is ideal for the day, but consider bringing a jacket for later hours. Rain in October is rare but possible, usually as brief and light showers.
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Language
Almost everyone in Malta speaks English, as the country was a British colony until 1964. You’ll rarely meet anyone who doesn’t understand English, and the island is home to many expats and international workers, making communication easy.
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Traffic
The traffic here can be a bit chaotic. When crossing the street, don’t be surprised if you need to cross during a gap in traffic rather than waiting for a long time. Pedestrian crossings are respected, so as long as you're cautious and confident, drivers will stop for you - but always be aware of your surroundings.
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The maltese pastizzerias
A must-try when in Malta is the popular pastizzi, a flaky pastry. These can be found in many small "pastizzerias" - open bakeries along the streets. While pastizzi come in various flavors, the ricotta-filled ones are a favorite of ours. You'll also find other tasty options, though most are quite oily compared to danish food. Be cautious when purchasing, as tourists sometimes get overcharged. It’s not common, but it has happened to us a few times. Always ensure prices are displayed, and double-check your change to avoid any surprises!
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Tipping
While tipping is not mandatory, it’s always appreciated. Waiters don’t rely on tips for their salary, but wages are generally lower in Malta. So, if you’ve had good service, feel free to leave a small tip to show your appreciation and brighten someone’s day.
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Water
Although tap water in Malta is technically safe to drink, most locals prefer bottled water due to its taste. The tap water often has a slightly salty or mineral flavor because it comes from desalination plants.
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Power Outlets
Malta uses the same three-pin plug as the UK. If you’re coming from other parts of Europe or beyond, you’ll need an adapter. Luckily, most hotels and Airbnbs provide adapters for guests, but it's always a good idea to bring your own just in case.
Facts About Malta
Malta is an island steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty, located in the heart of the Mediterranean. It has its own unique language, Maltese, which is the only Semitic language written in the Latin script and contains influences from Arabic, Italian, and English.
Known for its ancient temples dating back to 3600 BC, Malta boasts some of the world’s oldest free-standing structures. Over the centuries, it has been shaped by the Phoenicians, Romans, Moors, and, most famously, the Knights of St. John.
One of Malta's most thrilling moments in history occurred during the Great Siege of 1565, when just 3,000 Knights and soldiers defended the island against 40,000 Ottoman invaders. Against all odds, the Knights emerged victorious, ensuring Malta's survival and leaving behind a legacy of resilience and bravery. This legendary battle cemented the island's place in European history. Malta later became a British colony until 1964, and its influence is still seen in the island's language, governance, and infrastructure.
Beyond its rich past, Malta offers breathtaking scenery with rugged coastlines, crystal-clear waters, and charming towns. Visitors can explore the stunning Blue Lagoon, the medieval city of Mdina, or the vibrant capital Valletta - a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its grand architecture and cultural heritage.
Navigating Malta, however, can be quite an adventure. Malta is one of the smallest countries in the world and it holds the title of the most densely populated country in the EU. The population, along with a steady stream of tourists, can make getting around and finding parking challenging, particularly in peak seasons. With its narrow streets and left-side driving, the island's traffic can feel chaotic. The island is constantly evolving, with numerous new apartment buildings being constructed, and you’ll often hear construction work throughout the day. Additionally, frequent roadworks, especially in central areas, can add to the hustle and bustle, creating a lively but sometimes crowded environment.
A fascinating fact about Malta is that it has over 365 churches - one for every day of the year. These churches are famous for their festa celebrations, where towns and villages honor their patron saints with colorful parades, fireworks, and feasts.
A fun fact is that Malta has been a filming location for numerous movies and TV series, including Gladiator, Troy and Game of Thrones.
With over 300 sunny days a year, Malta provides a stunning backdrop for a celebration of love <3