Food
Food Categories, unlike tags, can have a hierarchy. You might have a Jazz category.
Situated in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, the country of Malta is a stunning little archipelago that lies south of Sicily. It’s a stunning country to explore, with a whole bunch of the best places in Malta scattered throughout the islands.
This nation of islands is one of the great places you must visit, especially because of its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, stunning fishing villages, and natural miracles.
Valetta
Valletta is the capital of Malta due to the famous defeat of the Ottoman Turks during the Great Siege of 1565. The city, built on a peninsula in the eastern part of the country, with a population of about 6,000, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is located at the top of the Sceberras mountain and has fine examples of baroque architecture dating back to the 16th century.
Among them stand out the Cathedral of St. John and other bastions and ramparts built by the Knights of St. John. Valletta is the largest port city in Malta, and the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens offer incredible views on the Grand Harbour.
St. Julians
For the nightlife lovers, St. Julians is the place to be. St. Julian’s includes Portomaso, Spinola Bay, St. George’s Bay and Paceville, where most of the nightlife attractions takes place.
For beach lovers, the large flat cliffs that line the coastline are ideal for sunbathing, while the promenade is a great place for long walks.
Here is the tallest building in Malta, Portomaso Tower, as well as the Spinola Palace (17th century). Visit St. Julians in August for a traditional summer party or come anytime to enjoy incredible dancing, dinner, and fine wine.
Sliema
Just 5 km away from Valletta, Sliema is the Maltese hub for great food and fantastic shopping. Now it is the main resort destination, although it was once the playground of the country’s aristocracy.
There are many options for boat trips around the Grand Harbor, and Sliema serves as the starting point for sightseeing buses circling all around the island. In the city, be sure to check out the Independence Garden and the De Redin Tower (XVII century).
Mdina
Head inland to the “Quiet City” of Mdina for a glimpse of medieval Malta. Built on a large hill in the center of the country, the city has few inhabitants and cars cannot enter it.
Combine this with a stunning view of the entire island and you will quickly see the magic of Mdina. This site is a good place to relax while walking along the narrow streets. Although it is small, there a lot to visit, including the Carmelite Church and Convent, Natural History Museum, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Arbitration Palace, and Palazzo Falzon.
Birgu
On the south side of the Grand Harbor stands Birgu, another oldest city in Malta. Due to its location, it has been of military importance for centuries. The city even played an important role in the siege of Malta. At some point, the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Phoenicians, Normans, Arabs and Aragonese controlled the city and influenced its history and culture.
The main entrance to the city is the Couvre Porte and the whole place is surrounded by ramparts. Inside you will find monuments and ancient history at every turn.
Before leaving, visit the Palace of the Inquisitors, the Parish Church, Notre Dame Gate, and the Malta Maritime Museum.
Mellieha
Mellieha is the largest beach in Malta, its name comes from the Arabic word for “salt”. Another popular tourist destination, Mellieha is picturesque and admired by locals. Lovely seaside hotels and fantastic restaurants add to the hospitality that pervades this place.
In September, you can take part in the Village Feast known as “Il Vioria” with fireworks, concerts, folk singing, other delicious meals and many religious processions in honor of Our Lady of Victory.
During your visit, be sure to visit the Gadira Nature Reserve, Gadira Bay, St. Agatha’s Tower, and Popeye Village, where the 1980 movie Popeye was filmed.
Gozo
Gozo is mainly a farming and fishing community and most people like the villages of Xlendi and Marsalforn. There has been very little development here, so an afternoon walk around the island will give you a nice feeling of a more traditional Malta.
Off the coast of Malta is the small island of Gozo. Most tourists come here to enjoy such sights as the Ggantija Temples, the Inland Sea, the Citadel, and the Azure Window.
Victoria
Goza’s capital is Victoria (or Rabat), with both the old city and the hilltop Citadel. Due to its location, the Citadel serves as the heart of the island and is sometimes referred to as the “Crown of Gozo”.
Independence Square (18th century) was once a government center and is now home to a lively open-air market with cafes serving pastizzi and lots of fun souvenirs. The large basilica is located in the oldest part of the city and you will enjoy walking around the area. Be sure to try the local foodies along the way.
The Folklore Museum, the Old Prison, Villa Rundle, and Gozo Cathedral are definitely worth visiting as a part of your stay.
