3 days trip in Malta

Introduction to the Maltese Archipelago

Malta's history spans over 7,000 years, shaped by the many civilizations that have succeeded one another. From the Phoenicians to the British, through the Romans, Arabs, Normans, and the famous Knights of the Order of St. John, each people has left its mark on the archipelago. This rich history is reflected today in the spectacular architecture, unique gastronomy, and vibrant culture of the Maltese islands.

Malta's Mediterranean climate makes it a pleasant destination year-round. Spring, from March to May, offers mild temperatures between 15 and 23°C, ideal for exploring historical sites. Summer, from June to September, can be very hot with temperatures reaching 35°C and high tourist numbers. Autumn remains pleasant with temperatures between 18 and 25°C, while winter is quieter and offers advantageous prices with mild temperatures between 12 and 18°C.

Day 1: Valletta and the Three Cities

Valletta: A Morning in the Capital

Start your day at St. John's Co-Cathedral, a baroque jewel built between 1573 and 1577 by the Knights. The sumptuous interior houses Caravaggio's famous paintings, including the monumental "Beheading of Saint John the Baptist." The floor is entirely covered with complex marble inlay, while the chapels of the different Languages of the Order compete in splendor. Allow at least two hours to fully appreciate this masterpiece, taking advantage of the excellent audio guide included in the €18 entrance fee.

Then head to the Upper Barrakka Gardens, former private gardens of the Italian Knights. These hanging gardens offer breathtaking views of the Grand Harbor and its fortifications. Don't miss the noon gun salute from the Saluting Battery, a tradition maintained since the 16th century. A café on site allows you to relax while admiring the panorama.

Authentic Lunch Break

For lunch, dive into Maltese gastronomy. Restaurant Rubino offers refined local cuisine, while Nenu the Artisan Baker excels in traditional specialties. Café Cordina, a true institution, immerses you in Valletta's historic atmosphere. Try the ftira, a Maltese sandwich filled with local ingredients, or pastizzi, delicious cheese or pea pastries. In season, lampuki (local fish) and rabbit stew, the national dish, are must-tries.

The Three Cities: A Historic Afternoon

Cross the Grand Harbor in a dgħajsa, traditional water taxi, to explore the Three Cities. In Vittoriosa, the Inquisitor's Palace tells the fascinating story of the Inquisition in Malta. Its historic rooms, prison, and sacred art collections testify to this complex period. Fort St. Angelo, a millennial sentinel of the harbor, offers a unique perspective on the island's military history.

Senglea welcomes you with its Gardjola Gardens, a former watchtower offering spectacular views of Valletta. Its baroque parish church houses a statue considered miraculous by locals. In Cospicua, walk along the restored waterfront and admire the imposing Church of the Immaculate Conception.

Gastronomic and Cultural Evening

For your evening, return to Valletta where nightlife comes alive. The Michelin-starred restaurant Noni offers a modern interpretation of Maltese cuisine. For a memorable experience, opt for ION Harbour, whose panoramic terrace overlooks the illuminated harbor. On summer Friday evenings, the Bridge Bar organizes outdoor jazz concerts, creating a unique atmosphere on the historic steps.

Day 2: The Island of Gozo

Preparation and Transport

The day starts early with the first ferry from Ċirkewwa at 6:45 AM. The 25-minute crossing offers spectacular views of the Maltese archipelago. To explore the island efficiently, car rental is recommended, although hop-on-hop-off tourist buses are a practical alternative. The public bus network, less flexible, remains an economical option for patient travelers.

Victoria: The Historic Heart of Gozo

Victoria, Gozo's capital also known as Rabat, is dominated by its majestic Citadel (Il-Kastell). This medieval fortress houses several historical treasures. The Cathedral of the Assumption impresses with its baroque architecture and remarkable trompe l'oeil giving the illusion of a dome that was never built. The citadel's various museums tell the rich history of the island through their collections of archaeology, folklore, and natural sciences.

In Victoria's lively center, It-Tokk square hosts the daily market where local producers sell their products. St. George's Basilica, rivaling the cathedral in splendor, testifies to the deep devotion of the Gozitans.

Archaeological and Natural Treasures

The Ġgantija temples represent an exceptional testimony to Malta's prehistory. Older than the Egyptian pyramids, these megalithic temples built between 3600 and 3200 BC demonstrate the remarkable ingenuity of the island's first inhabitants. The UNESCO World Heritage site comprises two main temples surrounded by a massive common wall, built with stone blocks weighing several tons.

Gozo's coast offers breathtaking natural landscapes. Ramla Bay, with its characteristic reddish sand, is dominated by the legendary Calypso's Cave, where according to mythology, the nymph held Ulysses for seven years. Further west, the fishing village of Xlendi, nestled in a picturesque creek, has become a favorite spot for diving and seafood gastronomy.

Spirituality and Traditions

Ta' Pinu Basilica, a national sanctuary, rises majestically in the middle of the Gozitan countryside. Its neo-Romanesque architecture and history rich in miracles attract pilgrims from around the world. The current building, constructed in the early 20th century, has preserved the original 16th-century chapel where, according to tradition, the Virgin Mary appeared.

Along the north coast, Gozo's salt pans testify to a millennial tradition still alive today. These basins carved into limestone form a fascinating geometric landscape, particularly photogenic at sunset. In summer, local families still harvest salt using ancestral methods.

Gozitan Flavors

Gozo's gastronomy is distinguished by its exceptional local products. The local goat cheese, ġbejniet, is artisanally prepared and served fresh, dried, or marinated in pepper. Restaurants in Xlendi and Marsalforn offer freshly caught fish, while local vineyards produce distinctive wines reflecting the island's unique terroir.

Day 3: Mdina and the Heart of Malta

The Silent City

Mdina, Malta's former capital, well deserves its nickname "the silent city." Crossing its imposing gates is like traveling through time. The narrow, winding streets, lined with noble palaces with golden sandstone facades, tell the story of a city that was the seat of power for over a millennium.

St. Paul's Cathedral, a baroque jewel built after the 1693 earthquake, dominates the city with its majestic presence. Its museum houses a remarkable collection of Nottingham alabasters, ancient coins, and Dürer prints. Palazzo Falson, the city's second oldest building, houses a fascinating collection of antiquities gathered by a Maltese artist.

Mdina's ramparts offer spectacular panoramas over much of the island. At twilight, when the lanterns light up and tourists become scarcer, the city regains its enchanting medieval atmosphere.

Rabat and Surroundings

A few steps from Mdina's gates, Rabat houses a fascinating network of early Christian catacombs. St. Paul's and St. Agatha's catacombs testify to the early days of Christianity in Malta. The underground galleries, with their rock-cut tombs and agapes (funeral banquet tables), offer a unique glimpse into ancient burial practices.

Further south, the Dingli Cliffs mark the highest point of the Maltese archipelago. These impressive rock formations plunge straight into the Mediterranean, offering a spectacular setting to observe the sunset. The small Chapel of St. Mary Magdalene, perched on the edge of the cliffs, adds a picturesque touch to the landscape.

Final Evening in Mdina

For your last evening, Mdina's gourmet restaurants offer a memorable culinary experience in a unique historical setting. The terraces offer unbeatable views of the illuminated island, while the cuisine combines Maltese traditions with contemporary Mediterranean influences.

Practical Tips for Your Stay

Accommodation in Valletta or Sliema offers an excellent starting point for exploring the island. Boutique hotels in Valletta's restored palaces allow you to live an authentic experience, while Sliema offers more modern options with sea views.

For transportation, public buses are an economical but time-consuming option. Car rental offers more flexibility, especially for visiting Gozo and remote sites. Taxis are available but relatively expensive.

Daily budget can vary considerably depending on travel style. Count about €60-100 for accommodation, €30-40 for meals, and €20-30 for transport and activities. Entrance fees to major sites are generally moderate, with combined passes allowing for savings.

Don't forget to bring an adapter for British plugs, sunscreen even off-season, and good walking shoes for paved streets and archaeological sites. A swimsuit is essential year-round, as the sea is rarely too cold for swimming.

This three-day program allows you to discover Malta's most captivating facets, combining millennial history, spectacular landscapes, and living traditions. The island still holds many other treasures that will certainly make you want to return.