Cottonera
Cottonera refers to the area within the walls surrounding Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua, commonly known as the “Three Cities”. Called the Cottonera Lines, this gigantic fortification line was built in the 17th century and was one of the largest projects in Malta at the time. It takes its name from Nicolás Cotoner, the Grand Master of the Order of Malta.
Cottonera is set on the opposite shore of the capital, Valletta, and, undoubtedly, the best views of Cottonera are from Valletta’s Grand Harbor. The site of the Three Cities’ oldest settlement, magnificent Vittoriosa is suggested as the first stop for visitors who seek a closer look at the history of Cottonera. Sometimes called the “cradle of Maltese history”, Vittoriosa was the first home for the Knights of Malta after they left Rhodes. Of course, the historical artifacts of well-preserved Senglea and Cospicua also promise a wonderful experience for those who enjoy history-themed travels.
Visitors to Cottonera are advised to explore its castles, fortresses, bastions, and churches. As well, the Three Cities feature picturesque narrow streets with history on every corner.
Gozo Island
Gozo, Malta’s second largest island, is in the country’s northwest. Gozo has its own rhythm: most of its inhabitants farm or fish. Gozo’s serene simplicity attracts visitors seeking a calmer Malta holiday.
Gozo’s nature, beaches and historical sites promise a legendary holiday. To see Gozo’s magnificent views, tour the island: The Blue Lagoon, Ramla Beach, Fungus rock and Xlendi Bay are all quite renowned. Malta’s famous rock arch, the Azur Window – seen in Game of Thrones – was also in Gozo. Sadly, the arch collapsed in 2017, worn down by erosion and dealt a final blow by a severe storm. Also be sure to visit the Neolithic era Ggantija Temple – ‘Giant’s Tower’ in the local language. In addition, there are many churches and basilicas in Gozo that beautifully represent the baroque architectural style.
It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to note that the best diving spots of the Mediterranean are in Gozo, which makes the island quite popular with scuba and snorkeling enthusiasts.
Gozo’s otherworldly ambiance is said to have been noted by none other than Homer. In the Odyssey, the poet allegedly based his description of Ogygia – the island home of the nymph Calypso – on Gozo.
Saint John Cathedral
Located in Valletta and built between 1572-1577, St. John’s Co-Cathedral is a unique window into the history of Malta. The interiors of the Cathedral, designed by Maltese architect Girolamo Cassar, were redesigned in baroque style in the 17th century. Today it is considered one of the finest works of baroque architecture in Europe.
While the Cathedral’s exterior has a plain appearance, its ornate interior features intricately carved stone walls, vaulted ceilings, side altars and baroque frescoes. As well, the renowned Caravaggio painting, ‘The Beheading of St John the Baptist’, is located in the Cathedral’s oratory.
One of the most important architectural monuments of Malta and Valletta, St. John’s Co-Cathedral is also one of Europe’s most magnificent faith centers.
Upper Barrakka Gardens
If there is time to see only one view in Malta, we recommend the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Set at the highest point of the Valetta Bastions, the Upper Barrakka Gardens offer panoramic views of the Lower Barrakka Gardens, as well as the Grand Harbour, Three Cities, the shipyard and the lower parts of Valetta. It’s a wonderful place to relax – have a coffee and a snack at one of the cafes and enjoy the view.
Valetta promises a unique holiday with its dozens of historical artifacts, churches, and museums.
Marsaxlokk
Marsaxlokk is a traditional fishing town located in southeastern Malta, and a significant portion of the local population is still engaged in fishing. It is one of the most popular destinations in Malta, due to its historical texture, gorgeous nature, and the beauty of its sea.
Traditional fishing boats, known as luzzu, figure prominently in Malta photographs. The picturesque, brightly painted boats also have a pair of eyes painted on their sides.
Marsaxlokk, used in antiquity as a port by the Phoenicians and Carthaginians, is today one of the most authentic regions in Malta. Marsaxlokk draws both locals and tourists, thanks to its magnificent walking and swimming areas and famous restaurants.
Join the Festas
If the best way to understand a place is to spend time with local residents, then Malta delivers amazing experiences. Festa is a term used to describe festivals specific to different regions of Malta. Festas kick off each year in May and continue until the end of September. During this period, a festa takes place almost every weekend. When visiting Malta, we recommend checking the planned festa dates before your trip.
Each town or village in Malta has a patron saint, and most festas are organized to express gratitude and respect to these saints.
Banners, cardboard sculptures, colorful clothes, fireworks, marches, local delicacies, dance, and entertainment: if these are of interest, then definitely arrange your visit to coincide with Malta’s festa season!
Try Scuba Diving
Malta has been an important diving destination since the 1960s, when the first dive centers were opened. The country’s natural beauty and abundant underwater life continued to attract greater numbers of divers; the diving industry developed and diving is now a cultural feature of the country.
Diving schools concentrated in Gozo and Comino offer incredible experiences for both beginners and professionals. Beginner and less-experienced divers can go on trial dives accompanied by expert divers. If you are experienced, let us remind you that night diving in Malta is quite famous.
A useful reminder: If you want to dive unaccompanied in Malta, you must obtain a diving permit from the Maltese Government or provide a 2-star diving certificate equivalent to CMAS.
Have fun at the beaches
Malta is a terrific summer holiday destination because it has all the natural beauty an island country can have. It offers variety and a range of activities that will satisfy almost every visitor. For beachgoers, Mellieha Bay and Golden Bay are among the most popular beaches in Malta. To snorkel in a world filled with colorful fish and underwater caves, the Blue Lagoon and St. Peter Pool are ideal choices. For a quieter summer vacation, we recommend the secluded Ghajn Tuffieha Bay, where calm and nature are beautifully preserved.
There’s also Ramla l-Hamra Bay, Mgarr ix-Xini beach, Paradise Bay, Hondoq ir-Rummien beach – and many more bays and beaches where you can have a wonderful summer vacation in Malta.
Eat!
Malta’s cultural influences throughout history fused a unique cuisine. The lively mix of Italian, French and Arabic traditions are inspired by the Mediterranean region but the local products and preparations deliver distinctive flavors within these culinary traditions.
The national dish of Malta is fenkata – rabbit, marinated in wine and stewed with various vegetables. There’s also minestra, a type of vegetable soup, and ftira, aring-shaped bread eaten with a filling of vegetables or fish. Other regional specialties are timpana, a macaroni pie, pastizzi, a savory pastry, and lambuki, a type of fish cooked with local vegetables.
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