Malta - an island with fascinating history, unique architecture, breathtaking landscapes, unforgettable sunsets and clear blue water.
Many travellers venture there in the warmer months of the summer, when it’s heaving with tourists and sun-seekers. However, despite the slightly cooler temperatures in March, the off-season is way quieter and slightly cheaper.
We stayed in a hotel located in St Paul’s Bay; Mayflower Hotel. It cost us 149 euros for four nights for two people. With a rooftop pool which had views of the town and the ocean, it was definitely a bargain. Our balcony peaked upon the street below and the thin curtains allowed the golden rays to shine in to our room each morning. The hotel's location is the main selling point, as the bus station is only a two minute walk away, with bus routes to everywhere on the island.
Getting around by bus was way easier than we thought it would be. For a little island, Malta’s public transport is extremely efficient. You can use contactless on the buses, so there’s no need to buy a ticket or travel pass. The taxi system there is also very easy to understand. Bolt is widely used, as well as other more local taxi services.
HIGHLIGHTS
Exploring St Paul’s Bay is a must — there are tonnes of niche restaurants, cafes and bars. Our favourite restaurants were Luzzu and Nine Lives. A bar we’d recomend there with a DJ and a good variety of drinks is Miracles Lounge.
Gozo Island should be at the top of your list. With a low cost of 4.65 euros to get from Cirkewwa ferry terminal (Mainland Malta) to Mgarr port (Gozo), it’s definitely worth the day trip. The crossing only takes 25 minutes. Once you arrive, you can use the public transport on the island, or the hop-on-hop-off bus services available, or easily get a taxi.
We visited Victoria (Gozo Island), which had remarkable quaint streets and markets, but the Cittadella was the most eye-catching part of this town, with memorable panoramic views. On the way down from the top you will find a restaurant (Ta’ Rikardu), where you have to walk up narrow, ancient stairs to get to the terrace. This is the perfect lunch spot (Rabbit Stew — a traditional Maltese meal — is on the menu), with a beautiful view.
Another notable destination on Gozo Island is Dwejra Bay, where you can watch an impressive sunset with the cliffs surrounding you. Just make sure you don’t miss the last bus or ferry!
Comino Island is a tiny paradise, which is about a 20 minute boat ride away. You can get a boat from Cirkewwa which is 15 euros return, and it will take you around the Sea Caves, as well as drop you off at the Blue Lagoon. The clear blue water here could be compared to the Maldives, but watch out for the jellyfish! Despite the cooler March temperature of 20 degrees, we took a dip in the lagoon, sunbathed on the rocks and surprisingly caught a tan.
Colossal cliffs, pink-painted skies, and fields of cacti. These were the views we were lucky enough to have as we took on the adventure of a sunset horse-ride along Golden Bay.
Valletta Town Centre — the main attraction here is the Gun Salute, which is free to watch. I would also say that wandering around the streets is besotting and will probably take up most of the time you spend here. It’s definitely one of the most intriguing towns I’ve visited in terms of culture and history. The street food market is also a great place to grab a bite to eat.
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