Weekend trip to Malta? I've got you covered
Malta is a beautiful little island that can definitely be explored in a weekend (from Europe). Although, I'd recommend 3-4 days if you're wanting to take things a little slower and indulge in island life. I've included my tips below, which are based on my own recent trip, as well as tips from my friend Mieke who lived in Malta for a few years, and my friend Emma who visited in May 2024.
What to do 💃
Valletta
Walk through a historic Old Town with stunning architecture and sun-soaked sandstone. If you are visiting during the festive season as I did, the Christmas decorations fill the streets with light, music, and cheer. St John’s cathedral and Grand Master’s Palace are impressive sights in the city worth checking out.
Blue Lagoon
I recommend getting a tour that visits both the Blue Lagoon and Gozo in one (I used this tour on GetYourGuide which only cost 25 euro for the day). I spent 1.5 hours at Blue Lagoon which was enough time to explore and swim, but if you want to lie down and relax I’d recommend doing so with a bit more time. It’s worth noting that there is literally nothing on Comino except the lagoon and a few food / drink vans (which don’t seem to operate every day in Winter), so bring what you need from sunscreen and towels to something to eat if you are spending more time.
Victoria, Gozo
The Cittadella is free and worth exploring (allow 30 minutes), while St George’s Basilica is 3 euro entry but one of the nicest basilica’s I’ve ever seen (you can pay by card).
Other recommendations from friends
There is a frequent ferry between Cospicua and Valletta Ferry which will allow you to explore the ‘Three Cities’. Other places worth a visit are Mdina to see the Palazzo Falson, and Rabat which houses a beautiful piazza as well as where you can find the best pastizzi on the island (more below).
Where to stay 🛌
I stayed in Valletta at The Gomerino Hotel and enjoyed my stay. The rooftop bar and pool are definitely the highlights - my friend Emma stayed here in May 2024 and enjoyed it also.
Where to eat 🍝
Paul’s (Valletta)
This was a really cool setting in a cellar, with 3 levels completely underground! Not heaps of options for wine by the glass, but lots for bottles so bring a friend or two! A lovely appetiser was included for free, and while the seafood wasn’t the best I’ve ever had and more on the expensive side, I would still recommend it.
Roza’s (Gozo)
Great place in Victoria (Gozo) to try some traditional food at a reasonable price. I had the rabbit ravioli which was great!
Other recommendations from friends
Ambrosia (for traditional Maltese dishes)
San Paulo Naufrago (famous restaurant on one of the famous sloped streets)
Aki
Rubino
Crystal Palace Bar for best pastizzi on the island
La Brioscia for best gelato on the island
Where to drink 🍷
Cafe Society
This was a quirky and cool spot to sit overlooking one of the famous sloped streets. They made a decent negroni too.
Why Not
A lovely little wine bar that definitely lives up to its namesake.
Cheers
Another cute wine bar on the famous sloped streets. Cheap and offers traditional Maltese pastries with cheese (pastizzi) for 1 euro which go perfect with local wine. Bonus points here for the staff who were really friendly.
Other recommendations from friends
Yard 32 Gin
Vihena Band Club
Bridge Bar (including jazz on a Friday)
Will follow your advice next year...