Beautiful Malta - Places of visit & other details

 

Malta is a picturesque destination with a variety of attractions to explore. Here are some of the best places to visit in Malta:

1. **Valletta**: Malta's capital city is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved Baroque architecture, historic forts, and museums. Don't miss St. John's Co-Cathedral and the Grand Master's Palace.

2. **Mdina**: Often referred to as the "Silent City," Mdina is a beautifully preserved medieval town with narrow winding streets and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

3. **Gozo**: Malta's sister island, Gozo, is known for its natural beauty and tranquility. Highlights include the Azure Window (now collapsed), the Citadel in Victoria, and the picturesque Dwejra Bay.

4. **Comino**: This tiny island is famous for the Blue Lagoon, a crystal-clear bay perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It's a great spot to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean waters.

5. **Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples**: These ancient megalithic temples are some of the oldest stone structures in the world and provide a fascinating glimpse into Malta's prehistoric past.

6. **Marsaxlokk**: A charming fishing village known for its colorful traditional fishing boats (Luzzus) and a lively Sunday fish market.

7. **St. Peter's Pool**: A natural swimming pool carved into the rocks on the south coast of Malta, offering a unique and refreshing swimming experience.

8. **Blue Grotto**: Take a boat trip to explore these sea caves and witness the mesmerizing blue hues created by the sunlight reflecting off the water.

9. **Marsalforn**: A popular seaside resort town on Gozo with a lovely promenade, restaurants, and excellent swimming spots.

10. **Dingli Cliffs**: Enjoy breathtaking views from these dramatic limestone cliffs, especially during the sunset.

11. **Mellieha**: Visit Mellieha Bay, one of Malta's largest sandy beaches, and explore the nearby Mellieha Parish Church, one of the island's most iconic landmarks.

12. **Marsaskala**: A laid-back coastal town with a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll along the seafront.

These are just a few of the many beautiful and historically significant places to visit in Malta. Each offers a unique experience, whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply enjoying the Mediterranean ambiance.

**Best Seasons to Visit Malta:**

1. **Spring (March to May)**: Spring in Malta is pleasantly warm, with blooming landscapes and fewer tourists. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring historical sites.

2. **Autumn (September to November)**: Similar to spring, autumn offers mild temperatures and fewer crowds. It's a great time for hiking and sightseeing.

3. **Summer (June to August)**: Summer is the peak tourist season in Malta, with hot and dry weather. It's perfect for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. Be prepared for larger crowds during this time.

4. **Winter (December to February)**: Winters in Malta are mild and relatively quiet, making it a peaceful time to visit if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere. Some attractions may have reduced hours.

**Maltese Cuisines:**

1. **Pastizzi**: These savory pastries filled with ricotta cheese or peas are a popular snack in Malta.

2. **Rabbit Stew (Stuffat Tal-Fenek)**: A traditional Maltese dish, rabbit stew is slow-cooked in red wine and aromatic herbs.

3. **Seafood**: Being an island nation, Malta offers a wide variety of fresh seafood, including octopus, swordfish, and lampuki (dolphin fish).

4. **Ftira**: This Maltese bread is a staple and is often used to make hearty sandwiches filled with local ingredients.

5. **Kapunata**: Similar to ratatouille, it's a tasty dish made with eggplants, tomatoes, capers, and olives.

6. **Hobz biz-Zejt**: A simple yet delicious sandwich made with Maltese bread, tomatoes, olives, capers, and tuna or anchovies.

7. **Imqaret**: Sweet pastries filled with dates and deep-fried to perfection, often enjoyed as a dessert.

**Airport in Malta:**

- **Malta International Airport (MLA)**: This is the primary international gateway to Malta and is located between Luqa and Gudja. It's well-connected to various European and other international destinations, making it convenient for travelers to access Malta.

Malta International Airport (MLA) is served by a variety of airlines, including both full-service carriers and low-cost airlines. Here are some of the airlines that operate to and from Malta:

1. **Air Malta**: The national airline of Malta, offering both domestic and international flights to several European destinations.

2. **Ryanair**: A prominent low-cost carrier that provides numerous connections from Malta to European cities.

3. **British Airways**: Operating flights between Malta and London Gatwick, providing a convenient link to the UK.

4. **Lufthansa**: Offers flights to Malta from its hub in Frankfurt, Germany.

5. **Turkish Airlines**: Provides connections to Malta via Istanbul, offering access to a wide range of international destinations.

6. **Emirates**: Connects Malta to its global network via Dubai, making it easier to reach destinations in Asia, Africa, and beyond.

7. **EasyJet**: A low-cost airline that operates flights between Malta and various European cities.

8. **Aegean Airlines**: Offers connections to Greece and other European destinations via Athens.

9. **Wizz Air**: A low-cost airline with routes connecting Malta to several European cities.

10. **Brussels Airlines**: Operates flights to Malta from Brussels, Belgium.

Please note that the availability of airlines and routes may change over time, so it's advisable to check with the airline or a travel booking platform for the most up-to-date information on flights to and from Malta.