In the heart of the Mediterranean, and almost invisible on most maps, this island - which is part of an archipelago - has some truly fantastic places. Coveted by all European empires since ancient times, it offers a fascinating cocktail of history, culture, architecture and idyllic turquoise blue beaches. We reveal the best plans for a route across Malta, take note!
Tour of Malta: discover the treasures of the island
With an area of only 246 km², Malta is perfect for touring by car all of its landmarks are within easy reach. It will only take a few days to discover and enjoy its attractions to the fullest and without rushing. We start, then, our route through Malta, the smallest country in the European Union and one of the most sought after by travelers.
Day 1: 'the Manhattan of the Mediterranean'
Any tour of Malta must begin with its capital, Valletta.
Its origin dates back to the 16th century, when the Knights of the Order of St. John sought a defensive enclave from which to repel the attacks of the Ottoman Empire. Those fortifications are still standing today in a city that has no more than 6,000 inhabitants and has become a World Heritage Site. Its interior, a small-scale grid network of streets, has earned it the nickname 'the Manhattan of the Mediterranean'. Its churches, ports and old mansions form a picturesque postcard in which you will find surprising Byzantine, Italian, Arab or English influences.
It is as necessary to get lost in the steep and narrow streets of this mini-city as it is to discover the treasures they hold. On this route through Malta you should not miss the Triton fountain and the new entrance gate, recently restored to the austere style of the Templar past of the island. The fort of San Telmo, a sober and rectilinear colossal construction, and the Grand Master's palace, of extraordinary splendor, are other must-sees. Enter the Co-cathedral of San Juan, which will amaze you by the contrast between its sparse exterior and ornate interior: the impact is striking. And take a look at the Barrakka gardens, whose panoramic views will be engraved on your retina forever.
Day 2: Mdina and Rabat
We continue our route through Malta to the southwest and, 20 minutes away, there is Mdina, also known as 'the City of Silence'. The ancient capital of the island, this walled town stands proudly on a hill, and its stones retain a medieval aura that resists the passage of centuries. Through its coquettish narrow streets we arrive at the cathedral of San Pablo, an imposing temple that combines art and architecture to perfection.
A must-see is Palazzo Falson, a 13th century house-museum that houses an immense collection of priceless jewelry, books, paintings and manuscripts.
The outer district of Mdina is Rabat, a place closely linked to the deep Catholic devotion of the island. (It has 365 churches, one for each day of the year). Don't miss the Paleochristian catacombs of St. Paul and St. Agatha on your tour of Malta. There are several kilometers of corridors and chambers that extend like a labyrinth under the floor of this town. It is truly amazing!
Day 3: North or south?
Dozens of blockbuster movies have been filmed on the island, such as Gladiator and The Da Vinci Code. And since we are in a territory with so much charm for the seventh art, how about visiting a film set? Half an hour from Valletta to the northeast is Anchor Bay, which is home to Popeye's village in the scene of the movie of the same name, filmed in 1980. Undoubtedly, this is a wonderful -and unavoidable- destination on your route through Malta, especially if you are traveling with the youngest members of the family.
If, on the other hand, we opt for the island’s natural heritage to enjoy the last day, we should head south. Seventeen kilometers from the capital, you will be able to see the Blue Grotto, a set of six sea caves located at the foot of the Dingli cliffs.
We are talking about one of the most beautiful places on our route through Malta. Its name comes from the spectacular myriad of different blues that are projected on the walls of the inner rocks, creating a spectacle unlike any you have seen before.
Have you worked up an appetite for travel? Book your rental car in Malta and discover these small - but huge - historical, artistic and natural treasures, and we wish you an unforgettable trip!
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