World Of Wanderlust

Malta is quickly becoming a popular vacation spot for travelers looking for a relaxing break in one of Europe’s hidden gems. Although it is a small country, Malta is rich in history and cultural diversity. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly destination with plenty to offer without breaking the bank. So, what makes Malta so intriguing to visit? Let’s dive into this Malta travel guide to find out more.

Preparation for Your Malta Trip

Before traveling, you should familiarize yourself with some essential facts about Malta:

– Currency: Euro (approximately USD 0.99)
– Official Languages: Maltese and English
– Plug Type: Type G

Visa and Entry Requirements:

Make sure to check if you need a visa to enter Malta. If so, you’ll need to apply for a Schengen Visa. Also, stay updated on Malta’s border restrictions related to the coronavirus pandemic to comply with current regulations.

Tips and Tricks for Traveling in Malta

Here are some useful tips to make your trip to Malta enjoyable and budget-friendly, covering everything from transportation to accommodation.

Transportation:

Malta is easy to explore due to its small size and variety of transportation modes. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Bus: Public buses are the main mode of transport. Keep in mind that buses can get crowded, so you might need to stand. A single bus ticket costs EUR 1.5 in winter and EUR 2 in summer. Malta also offers hop-on or hop-off buses with various routes; a single-day pass costs around EUR 20.

2. Ferry: Ferries are commonly used to travel between islands. For example, a return trip from Malta to Gozo costs about EUR 4.65. Traveling from Sicily, Italy to Malta via ferry takes four to seven hours and costs between EUR 95 to EUR 145.

3. Bike: For a more adventurous option, you can rent a bike for about EUR 12 per day.

4. Taxi: Taxi rates start at around EUR 6 and cost approximately EUR 2 per kilometer. You can use the eCab app for more affordable short-distance taxi rides.

5. Flight: The only international airport is Malta International Airport. Flights from mainland Europe typically cost at least EUR 45 for a round trip, while flights from Northern Africa cost around EUR 50.

Accommodation:

Given Malta’s small size, it’s easy to travel across the country, so you don’t need to stay in one place. We recommend stays in three cities: Sliema, Victoria, and Mdina. Hostel prices range from EUR 10 to EUR 20 per night, hotels from EUR 35 per night, and Airbnb options from EUR 35 to EUR 80. Prices tend to rise during summer.

Food and Groceries:

Maltese cuisine is influenced by Italian, North African, and British flavors. The national dish, rabbit stew (stuffat tal-fenek), and seafood are must-tries. Food prices are generally affordable, with pastizzi costing just EUR 1. Traditional restaurant meals cost around EUR 15, while a multi-course meal at a mid-range restaurant costs about EUR 30. For self-catering, expect to spend EUR 40 to EUR 60 per week on groceries.

Itinerary and Must-Visit Places

You can explore Malta in just seven days. Here’s a suggested itinerary.

Day 1: Sliema

Start your trip in Sliema, the largest city in Malta. Enjoy a walk along the seafront promenade, swim in the harbor, or relax at a local cafe. Key spots to visit include the Valletta Ferry Services, Independence Gardens, and The Point Shopping Mall.

Day 2: Valletta and the Three Cities

Valletta, Malta’s capital, was named the European Capital of Culture in 2018. Enjoy Maltese culture, beautiful scenery, and vibrant nightlife. Visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Upper Barrakka Gardens, and Fort St. Elmo.

Day 3: Marsaxlokk and Southern Malta

Explore the fishing village of Marsaxlokk and its famous Sunday fish market. Don’t miss St. Peter’s Pool, known for its scenic cliffs and opportunities for cliff jumping.

Day 4: Victoria, Gozo

Travel to the island of Gozo and visit Victoria, the capital. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, vineyards, and beautiful churches. Be sure to sample the local wine.

Day 5: The Island of Gozo

Spend another day exploring Gozo. Relax on golden sandy beaches or join a sailing trip. Visit places like the Azure Window, Hondoq Bay, and Ramla Bay.

Day 6-7: Mdina

Conclude your trip in Mdina, known for its unique Arabian and Baroque architecture. Its proximity to the airport makes it convenient for your departure. Key sites include Mdina Old City, Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Paul, and Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum.

With this guide, you’re all set to explore Malta. Book your tickets, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!