Malta: History, Culture, and Hospitality [VIDEO]

To even the most discerning traveler, Malta remains a mystery. Join us as we dive deep into the history, lifestyle and charm of this island nation, and discover why Malta needs to be moved to the top of your bucket list.

Malta may be small, but it is mighty. If the Mediterranean is the cradle of civilization than the Maltese Islands stand out as the very heart of the region. Rich with 7,000 years of history, home to three UNESCO heritage sites, delicious food, a relaxed lifestyle, ample scuba diving, dozens of outdoor activities, and vibrant nightlife.

Malta is comprised of three islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino. We look at each of these islands and the characteristics that make them unique. Although there are no direct flights from the United States to Malta, the country can be easily reached through an extensive flight network in Europe and throughout the Mediterranean. This means that not only is Malta a great standalone destination but also pairs beautifully with a trip to Italy, Greece or Spain.

Once you arrive on the island of Malta white taxis are the easiest way to get around. Fares from the airport are a fixed tariff including luggage. If you want to explore the farthest reaches of the island, you can rent a car, but keep in mind, Malta was a colony of the United Kingdom from 1813 until the early 1970’s. This means they drive on the left.

The ISLANDS

Malta

Malta is the largest of the three, and the cultural, commercial, and administrative center of the island nation. Malta is a veritable open-air museum. The narrow meandering streets through ancient towns and villages are adorned with baroque churches and palaces, while the countryside is the site of the oldest known structures in the world. Packed into the .3 square miles of Valletta, the capital, are over 300 monuments, making it the most concentrated historical area in the world.

Gozo

The second largest island, Gozo, is accessible by ferry from Malta and offers a completely different feel. The intimate setting of a small, island community with a long tradition of warm hospitality will make you feel at home within moments of arrival. Offering unspoiled bays, coves and sandy beaches, Gozo makes offers ample opportunities for water activities and sunbathing. Gozo also offers some of the best opportunities for snorkeling and diving as well.

Comino

Comino is the third, but equally important, island situated comfortably between Malta and Gozo. Much smaller than the other two, Comino covers less than two square miles. Comino is home to the Blue Lagoon, a sheltered inlet of aquamarine water that is a paradise for snorkeling.

Accommodations in Malta

Malta is home to a variety of accommodations from five-star hotels of which there are 16 in total) to 300-year-old restored farmhouses to simple vacation apartments. Whatever accommodation type you choose, a first-class welcome is guaranteed. The Maltese are famous for their warm, friendly, and generous hospitality.

On the island of Malta, hotels are clustered into four key areas, three of which sit along the eastern coast. St Julian’s is home to most of the island’s five-star hotels and to some of the country’s best restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and cafes.

St. Julien’s

In St. Julien’s you will find the Intercontinental Malta and the Corinthia Hotel St. Georges Bay. Both of which are in the Beyond and Back Travel Hotel Program. When booking the best available rate, our clients are afforded complimentary breakfast for two daily, property upgrades, resort credits and even round-trip airport transfers.

Sliema

A trendy residential town, home to a selection of three- and four-star hotels and one of the islands largest shopping districts.

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St. Paul’s Bay

In St. Paul’s Bay, north of St. Julian, you will find a wide variety of accommodations, including four- and three-star hotels, apartment hotels (perfect for families) and vacation apartments.

Valletta

The capital, Valletta, has two, five-star hotels just outside the city gates. The Phoenicia, Malta’s first luxury hotel, is in the Beyond and Back Travel Hotel Program. Included with the best available rate is a $100.00 food and beverage credit, complimentary breakfast for two, upgrade upon availability and early check-in and late check-out.

Mdina

Inside the walled city of Mdina you will find one, boutique hotel located in a beautifully restored 17th century palazzo. Speaking of Mdina, the history of this area dates back 4000 years, and the city stands as one of Europe’s finest examples of an ancient walled city. Inside the walls you will find a beautiful mix of medieval and baroque architecture.

Gozo

Accommodations on Gozo are as unique as island itself. Most notably are the 300-year-old farmhouses that have been loving restored to modern specifications. Most have swimming pools. A variety of hotels, including the five-star Kempinski San Lawrenz are located on Gozo. Set against a backdrop of spectacular sea views and rustic landscapes, there is lodging of everyone on Gozo.

What to do in Malta

It should be no surprise that many of the islands most popular activities are on the water. Whether it is a short harbor cruise or a full day tour of the entire coastline, Malta is best seen from the sea. For the most authentic experience rent a “luzzu” the traditional fishing vessel of the Maltese people. Start your trip from the inland sea on Gozo and sail through the tunnel that leads to the Mediterranean Sea. Travel around the majestic cliffs on the western side of the island and admire the legendary fungus rock. 

Your time on the water in Malta will be the highlight of any vacation. But don’t limit yourself to staying on top of the water, grab your snorkel or scuba gear and dive on in! Malta is ranked as one of the top diving destinations in the world. A wealth of diving treasures including diverse marine life, natural harbors, bays, labyrinthine caves, sheltered creeks, cliffs, reefs and wrecks make Malta a diver’s dream. The crystalline waters allow for up to 98 feet of underwater visibility and the mild, year-round sea temperatures mean that you can enjoy a dive all year long.

historical sites

The Hal Saflieni hypogeum is an underground temple and cemetery hewn from rock and dates back 3600 BC. Often recognized as one of the most intriguing archaeological sites in the world. The site is only open to 80 visitors per day, so it is recommended to make a a reservation several weeks in advance.

The megalithic temples are clustered into 7 complexes these temples pre-date the pyramids and Stonehenge by 1,000 years. Making them the oldest free-standing structures in the world.

Outdoor Activities

Both Malta and Gozo offer a range of fantastic outdoor activities. Walking and hiking trails offer some of the most stunning views anywhere in the Mediterranean. From dramatic cliffs plunging into the waves, to rocky scrubland or hidden lush valleys, hikers and walkers will come across mysterious pre-historic sites, caves, chapels and secluded palaces of the knights.  

The islands of Malta and Gozo can also be explored by bicycle. A range of trails have been mapped out according to levels of experience. From beginners to advanced, the tracks bend and weave through some of Malta’s most historic places.

Beaches

Malta has beaches for everyone.  Beaches that cater to families with young children and those for visitors seeking water-based adventure. The most popular coastal resorts and sandy beaches can be found in the northern part of Malta. These larger beaches are equipped with cafes, snack bars and other facilities. Smaller and more quaint beaches are located on the northern tip of Malta, and on the islands of Gozo and Comino.

Family Activities

Malta, Gozo and Comino offer a wonderful vacation setting, allowing parents and children to share the joys of discovery, experience the thrill of an action-packed vacation or just savor the simple pleasures of relaxing together. Safety is the number one priority in Malta, alleviating this key concern for families. The Maltese have traditional family values and children are always welcome and given special attention.  

Not only are there museums and historical sites galore, but there are water parks, go kart tracks, an aquarium, glass bottom boats, a falconry center, military parade reenactments, and more. There is even a young sailors club that teaches children of all ages how to sail. There is no shortage of family-friendly activities which makes Malta the perfect vacation destination.

When To Go

The great thing about Malta is that the country is a year-round destination. Daily averages of 5-6 hours of sunshine in the winter and around 12 hours of sunshine each summer day. Winters are mild with average temperatures of 60 degrees in January. Summers are hot and dry, averaging 90 degrees. Swimming and beach season can last until mid-October. Sea temperatures never drop below 55 degrees, golf courses are open year-round and water-based sports are available any time of year.