top of page
  • Writer's pictureMaddie
    • Apr 17
    • 4 min read

Everything you need to know about visiting Malta!

Updated: Oct 26

Malta, a gem in the heart of the Mediterranean, is an island of inspiration where past and present harmoniously coexist, painting a vivid tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty.


Make sure you check out all of the installments in my Exploring Malta series!!


Malta has a little bit of everything and is a great place to visit no matter the time of year! We personally went in early April and it was perfect for us. Not too crowded and not too hot so we could actually enjoy ourselves exploring the islands!


Bucket List for Malta:

The Upper Barrakka Gardens

St. John's Co-Cathedral

Popeye Village

Blue Grotto

Mosta Rotunda

Ä gantija

Casa Rocca Piccola

St. Elmo

Mdina

Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta' Pinu

Lower Barrakka Gardens

Ħaġar Qim

Malta National Aquarium

The Lascaris War Rooms

Saluting Battery

Rabat

Gozo

Mellieha Beach

Marsaxlokk Market

Comino Island


Best time to visit and holidays:


Spring and early summer, April, May, and June is the best time to visit Malta. The weather is not hot (sunny days and the nights are cool) and there are fewer tourists. You'll able to swim if you don't mind the slightly cooler waters.


We went at the beginning of April and the weather was PERFECT! The temperature was great for getting out and exploring without being miserable in the heat.


Most popular cities and towns to visit:

  • Valletta

  • Mdina

  • Sliema

  • Marsaxlokk

  • Victoria

  • Mellieha

  • Bugibba

  • St. Pauls Bay

Popular restaurants:

Malta offers a unique culinary experience that combines influences from various Mediterranean and European cuisines. When visiting Malta, be sure to try these delicious and distinctive dishes:

  1. Pastizzi: These flaky, savory pastries are a Maltese staple. They're typically filled with either ricotta cheese (pastizzi tal-irkotta) or mushy peas (pastizzi tal-piżelli). You can find them in bakeries throughout the country.

  2. Fenek: A traditional Maltese dish, fenek consists of rabbit stewed with white wine and various herbs and spices. It's a must-try for those who enjoy game meat.

  3. Lampuki Pie: This savory fish pie is made with lampuka (dorado) fish, onions, tomatoes, capers, and olives. It's a seasonal delicacy available during the lampuki (dorado) fish migration.

  4. Timpana: A hearty pasta dish, timpana features tubular pasta baked in a pastry crust, mixed with a rich bolognese sauce, and topped with cheese.

  5. Kapunata: Malta's version of ratatouille, kapunata is a delicious mix of roasted eggplants, bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, capers, and olives, often served as a side dish.

  6. Ä bejniet: These small, round goat cheeselets are typically served either fresh (Ä¡bejniet friski) or dried (Ä¡bejniet moxxi). They are often enjoyed with bread, tomatoes, and olive oil.

  7. Hobz biz-Zejt: A simple yet delicious Maltese sandwich made with crusty bread, ripe tomatoes, tuna, capers, olives, and olive oil.

  8. Maltese Sausages: The local sausages are a tasty treat, often seasoned with a unique blend of spices like coriander, garlic, and fennel.

  9. Soppa tal-Armla: This hearty vegetable soup, also known as "widow's soup," is made with seasonal vegetables and served with a poached egg on top.

  10. Cisk Lager: Try Malta's iconic beer, Cisk Lager, which goes well with many of these traditional dishes.

  11. Imqaret: These deep-fried date pastries are a popular Maltese sweet treat, often enjoyed with a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

  12. Qagħaq tal-Għasel: Known as honey rings or treacle rings, these sweet pastries are made with a mixture of treacle, dates, and spices, enclosed in a pastry crust.

  13. Torta tal-Lampuki: A savory lampuki fish pie, often enjoyed during the lampuki season.

  14. Kinnie: Malta's iconic soft drink, Kinnie is a bittersweet carbonated beverage with a unique blend of Mediterranean flavors, including bitter oranges and aromatic herbs.

  15. Fried Rabbit (Fenkata): While fenek can be stewed, it's also popular fried and served with a side of fries. It's a classic Maltese dish.

  16. Helwa tat-Tork: A traditional Maltese sweet made from crushed and roasted almonds, mixed with sugar and honey, and formed into bars or bite-sized pieces.

  17. Qassatat: Similar to pastizzi, these are savory pastries filled with various ingredients such as spinach, anchovies, or cheese.

  18. Pulpetti: Maltese meatballs made from a mixture of minced beef and pork, seasoned with garlic and herbs, then fried or stewed.

  19. Figolla: A sweet almond pastry, traditionally made in the shape of a lamb or a cross for Easter.

Maltese cuisine offers a delightful blend of flavors and ingredients influenced by centuries of history. Be sure to explore the local dishes and savor the unique culinary traditions while you're in Malta.


Hotel recommendations:


We personally stayed at the Hilton Malta, a luxurious and upscale hotel offering a fantastic stay on the island. With stunning Mediterranean views, spacious rooms, and top-notch amenities, it's a great choice for travelers seeking comfort and elegance. The staff is known for their warm hospitality, and the hotel's multiple dining options provide a delightful culinary experience. Its location in St. Julian's is convenient for exploring the local attractions and enjoying the vibrant nightlife. Whether you're here for leisure or business, the Hilton Malta is a splendid choice for a memorable stay in Malta.




Hope this inspired you to visit this incredible location! If you are looking for more options check out my Exploring Malta series!



Like it? Pin it!

Did you find this post helpful? Help us spread the word by sharing this post or pinning the following image.



54 views
bottom of page