Malta is an archipelago in the central Mediterranean between Sicily and the African coast. Made up of three islands — Malta, the largest, Comino (uninhabited, perfect for day trippers), and Gozo (known for its rural landscapes and secluded beaches).
We book an apartment in the old town of Valletta. The Coffee Loft sits next to the Grandmaster’s Palace and the Valletta Food Market — a vibrant international food court in a 19th-century building.
From the commanding St. John’s Co-Cathedral to steep cobblestone steps turned into alfresco bars, to the gigantic ships lining the majestic Grand Harbour — Malta is as breathtaking as it is intriguing.
Locals brim with pride, eager to share their culture. By day, we wander through art galleries, local designer shops, and stately churches. By night, Valletta transforms into a foodie’s haven, where Mediterranean flavors mingle with Maltese twists.
Dinner at Nenu the Artisan Baker is unforgettable. The historic eatery, once a bakery, serves traditional dishes like Ftira (woodfired bread with toppings), sautéed meats, charred vegetables, and fresh pasta.
At noon, the Saluting Battery in the Upper Barrakka Gardens roars to life with the Malta Noon Day Gun. The gardens, perched at the city’s highest point, blend lush greenery with historic relics.
As night falls, Valletta’s colorful laneways buzz. Families line up for fresh gelato and traditional pastizzi — flaky pastries filled with ricotta, peas, or beef.
To explore beyond, we hire a car and head south to the Blue Grotto. Towering limestone cliffs meet sparkling azure waters, best seen from a €10 local boat ride. At the island’s furthest tip, Anchor Bay is home to pristine beaches and Popeye Village, a quirky film set turned theme park.
A ferry ride takes us to Gozo, with a quick stop at Comino’s Blue Lagoon. At Gozo Port, we drive to Victoria, the island’s hilltop capital.
Here, a cooking class at Maldonado Bistro (through Gastro Gozo) becomes a highlight. Guided by Chef George, we learn to make ftira, pastizzi, and qubbajt (nougat). Afterward, we enjoy coffee at historic Café Victoria and shop local boutiques before hitting the markets.
As the sun dips, we swim at Xlendi Bay before climbing to the Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs. Sipping a Campari Spritz while overlooking the glowing sea feels like pure magic.
The islands of Malta are truly a must-see destination. For the best experience, plan your trip in April or September to enjoy sunny days and cooler nights — and to skip the peak summer crowds.