Malta is a group of islands in the central Mediterranean Sea in between Sicily and the coast of North Africa. We stumbled upon Malta after seeing a great flight deal but admittedly, did not know much about it prior to our visit. The islands are filled with many different neighborhoods, each offering something a bit different than the next. Our favorite (and probably the favorite for most) was Valetta. The streets are charming and filled with so much character including restaurants, cafes, and shops. You get a bit of a tase of both Eastern and Western culture all compiled in one quaint city. You really do not need more than a couple days in Malta as you can get around the island fairly easy with their public transit and again, most of what you will want to see is either out on the waters or within Valetta. But, it is a great add on for anyone traveling to Sicily or the surrounding areas.
WHERE TO STAY:
I read an article that steered us away from staying in Valetta as it mentioned it would be filled with tourists and not the best location for food and nightlife. Many different blogs and articles stated that St. Julians would be our best option as it is known to have the best restaurants and nightlife. So, this is where we chose to stay. While we did enjoy our food and the location of our bnb, we would highly recommend that anyone visiting Malta for the first time choose to stay in Valetta. We did not find it to be crowded with tourists and there were definitely more options for activities, food and the sort of nightlife we were hoping to find.
WHAT TO SEE AND DO:
1. Explore the 3 cities of Valetta (Birgu, Senglea and Cospicua)
2. Tour the Sunday Market in the charming fishing village of Marsaxlokk
3. Visit Popeye’s Island- this is where the Popeye’s movie starring Robyn Williams was filmed. They have kept the village up since the filming and have turned it into an attraction for people to visit.
4. Learn about the country’s history on a walking tour (link below)
5. Take a private boat tour of the islands- we booked with Malta Rib Charter. It is a great way to visit Gozo, Comino, the Blue Lagoon and the Blue Grotto.
6. Explore the historical towns of Mdina & Rabat
WHERE TO EAT:
1. Rampila (Valetta)- serves Maltese and Mediterranean cuisine in both indoor and outdoor settings.
2. Peperocino (St. Julians)- This was one of our favorite meals during our trip. The food is a blend of Maltese, Sicilian and Italian and they have both patio, terrace and indoor seating. Reservation required.
3. Barracuda (St. Julians)- Family owned Mediterranean restaurant housed in a restored 18th century villa, located just over the water’s edge and overlooking Spinola bay. Reservation required.
4. Leglin (Valetta)- Cozy and unique spot offering only a tasting menu option that includes 6-8 courses of traditional Maltese cuisine. Reservation required.
5. Ali Baba (Silema)- Another one of our favorite meals during our trip. Family owned restaurant serving authentic Lebanese food. Reservation required.
WHERE TO DRINK:
1. The Thirsty Barber (St. Julians) – cocktail bar that can get a bit rowdy and often has live music
2. Alchemy Bar (Valetta)- swanky mixology lounge serving great cocktails
3. Flock Lounge (St. Julians)- Small bar where locals come to hang out and drink on steps located just outside. Loud music & a mix of rowdy and chill vibes.
4. Bridge Bar (Valetta)- This was our favorite spot. The small bar serves cocktails for guests to take out to enjoy on their steps and terrace where live jazz bands perform every Friday night. Highly recommend checking this spot out if you’re in Valetta on a Friday evening.
5. Yard 32 (Valetta)- Gin bar offering great cocktails and tapas.
Passage Seventeen. 