The jewel of the Mediterranean is a surprising destination! Malta enjoys a privileged location and offers a number of advantages to all those who decide to travel to the island for tourism, study or work.
Europe's sunniest island vibrates with its architecture, prehistoric temples and cosmopolitan atmosphere. But not only that, its health care system, quality education and stable, thriving economy are other factors that make it a great destination.
Malta is a place with a rich history, cities that seem to be anchored in time and idyllic landscapes. The turquoise water of its beaches and the magic of its hidden coves immediately captivate locals and visitors alike.
As a place that brings it all together, this picturesque island is a place where you can experience different adventures every day. For these and many more reasons, we share with you the most complete travel guide to Malta so that you can immerse yourself in this destination right now.
This is where this tour of one of the Mediterranean's most enchanting destinations begins, and we invite you to find out what the island has to offer and how you can experience it at 100% with this travel guide to Malta:
Where is Malta located?
Malta is a small island country in the Mediterranean Sea.in the south of Europe. It lies south of Sicily (Italy) and east of Tunisia (Africa) in the central Mediterranean Sea. The country is made up of three islands: Malta, Gozo and Comino.
Although it is a small island and looks modest on the map, its strategic location has made it a key point of interest for traders and travellers throughout history.
For many centuries, sailors could not make long voyages without a stopover, which is why Malta became a beleaguered place in the middle of the voyage between Europe and Africa.
History and culture of Malta
At present Malta is a Catholic country, but its atmosphere, culture, cuisine, festivities and architecture reflect the mix of cultures that have passed through the island.
The Maltese islands were inhabited for millennia by various civilisations such as the Phoenicians, Normans, Romans and Arabs, although the most influential colonisers were the Knights of St John (the Christian forces), who remained in power until the arrival of Napoleon in the 18th century. It was also under British rule for several centuries.
Today you can appreciate the cultural mix that prevails in this country thanks to all the civilisations that inhabited it. For example, it is said that one of the most prosperous periods in Malta was during the Roman rule, as the architecture of that time is a sample of comfortable and spacious houses.
When the Knights of St John defeated the Turks in the 16th century, Malta's construction boom came: the new town of Valletta was built and is now a UNESCO Intangible Heritage Site, as well as fortifications, watchtowers, churches and palaces.
During the Crimean War (1853-1856), the British Navy made Malta an important naval base and supply station. With the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869, Malta became one of the main coaling ports on the route between Britain and India.
Malta was under British rule for several centuries, and in 1921, the Maltese began to have a greater say in the political arena, being part of the government in making certain decisions. It was only in 1964 that Malta became independent.
In 2004 it joined the European Union and in 2008 it joined the Eurozone, which meant substantial foreign investment and diversification of the national economy. Recently, although the islands have been hit by the European financial crisis, they have been largely unscathed, with steady growth.
Lifestyle in Malta
The Catholic Church continues to maintain a significant influence in Maltese life, and communities revolve around churches and parish activities.
Religious festivities are a time of festivity, with feasting, social interaction, music, processions and fireworks. The highlight of the year is undoubtedly the annual parish festival, which is celebrated on different dates in different localities.
Maltese people have a strong taste in music. The għana (ah-na; traditional song) represents the most authentic and deep-rooted form of Maltese folk music.
Music in Malta reflects the country's geographical location by fusing verses that combine Sicilian balladry with the lament of Arabic music. Historically, għana was considered to be the domain of peasants, workers and labourers. It is very much a local thing.
If you go to parties, bars and restaurants, you will hear a variety of musical rhythms: electronic, pop, Latin genres, among others.
In the spring and summer months there is a wide range of live music on offer: concerts in pubs and bars, the Jazz Festival, the Arts Festival, Music Week, the Isle of MTV.
In terms of sport, football is a passion and most Maltese follow both national and international teams, especially British and Italian. Other sports enjoyed and played in Malta include water polo and horse racing.
Malta is famous for its silver filigree jewellery, textiles and decorative objects made of blown glass or limestone.
Climate and best time to visit
The Maltese islands have one of the most enviable climates in Europe, with the sun shining most days of the year and winters generally more bearable than in other mainland countries.
According to your taste, we tell you what the weather is like in Malta according to the season:
- High season: June, July and August
It's summer, the hottest time of the year, when temperatures can reach very high levels. The good thing about this time of year is the number of things you can do: boat trips, music festivals, parties, swimming at the beaches.
The downside is the price of accommodation and the number of tourists. If you go at this time of year, the best month would be June, as the weather is warm, but temperatures have not yet reached their peak. July and August can be hotter than 35 degrees Celsius.
- Mid-season: April, May, September, October
Spring in Malta is marked by sun and wind, but April and May are great months to visit the island if you're looking for a cooler climate. However, the sea temperature is cooler than in autumn.
In these months you can find a mixture of climates: sun, heat and additional rains and winds.
Many people choose to visit Malta in autumn because the intense summer heat has passed and the sea can still be pleasant for swimming. The change in temperature towards cooler weather begins to be felt in early to mid-October.
- Low season: November, December, January and March
These are the coldest months of the year, with grey, cloudy and rainy days. Between November and December the average temperature is 12°-18°C. January and February tend to be colder.
At this time of year you can find much cheaper accommodation. There are also carnivals.
Highlights in Malta
Between coves, beaches, temples, monuments and charming streets, there are many places to visit in Malta. Here we tell you which ones stand out:
Valletta: The Capital of Malta
Valletta, Malta's capital, is a must-see on the island. The city was built by the Order of St. John in the 16th century and preserves the architecture of that time. Everywhere you go you'll see the traditional Maltese fortifications, houses and balconies: wooden and colourful.
Thanks to its architectural richness, it is considered an open-air museum with buildings, streets and magical corners. In 1980 the capital of Malta was declared a Unesco Intangible Heritage Site because of its baroque buildings, fortifications and historic sites.
The fortifications and defensive walls surrounding the city bear witness to its strategic importance in times gone by. Its beauty and narrow streets are proof of its resistance to the passage of time.
Today, modern architecture blends with the past, as the city's entrance, Parliament and Opera House were designed by Renzo Piano. In 2018 Valletta was named the European Capital of Culture.
The city and its surroundings are not to be missed. The streets of Valletta are lined with bars, restaurants, museums and hotels. There are also viewpoints from which you can see other parts of the island such as the Three Cities (Senglea, Birgu or Vittoriosa and Cospicua).
In Valletta you can enjoy both day and night with its streets and magical corners!
Mdina: The Walled City
Mdina was the ancient capital of Malta and is now one of the most popular tourist sites on the island for the beauty of its houses, streets and baroque buildings. It is a walled city with a charm and magic of its own, set on a hill, which gives it an imposing and mysterious air.
Also known as the City of Silence, you can enjoy the beauty of its medieval-style streets, honey-coloured houses, flower-adorned balconies and doorways, handicraft shops and restaurants with panoramic views.
More than 4,000 years old, this city reflects a unique beauty that has made it the setting for several films and series, including Game of Thrones. Walking around Mdina, you will realise that it is a city that takes you back to the past: its location and walls were decisive in defending it from invading attacks.
Megalithic Temples of Malta
Thanks to the cultural mix and ancient legacies, Malta is home to some of the best preserved prehistoric architecture on the planet. The megalithic temples, built between 3600 and 2500 BC, are the oldest standing structures in the world.
It is not yet known what the purposes were, but it is theorised that they were places for religious rituals.
It is presumed that the builders of these impressive temples were descendants of the Neolithic inhabitants of the island, rather than colonisers. Today you can visit some of these structures as temples: Ħaġar Qim, Mnajdra, Skorba and Ġgantija.
One of the most treasured Maltese treasures are the Tarxien temples and the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, ideal places for travellers who love history and archaeology.
Hal Saflieni is perhaps one of Malta's most impressive ruins, an underground architectural complex dating back to 2,500 BC, first erected as a sanctuary and later transformed into a necropolis.
The hypogeum consists of three levels of natural caves with impressive carvings and decorations, accompanied by numerous objects such as statuettes that are stored in the Archaeological Museum of La Valleta.
This is a must-see if you are visiting or living in Malta, as there are not many archaeological sites like this one in the world.
We tell you more in our article: A walk through Tarxien and the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum
Dream Beaches
The Maltese islands are surrounded by the turquoise blue of the Mediterranean Sea and that's why one of Malta's greatest attractions are its beaches. Here we tell you which are the 5 best beaches in Malta in our experience on the island:
- Għajn Tuffieħa: A beautiful beach with fine sand and a natural wave, with no buildings around it. You can find it in the northwest of Malta. Without a doubt the most remarkable thing about it is its tranquillity.
- Mġarr Ix-Xini: is a quiet cove, located on the island of Gozo, and is one of the most recommended beaches for swimming and snorkelling, due to its crystal clear waters. It is not yet one of the most popular, which gives it a "private" feel that we love.
- Paradise BayThe little cove. In the north of Malta you will find a beach with a beautiful, open and clean view of Gozo and Comino. The beach, although small, has a lot of sand at the entrance, which makes it perfect for long hours of sea time.
- Ġnejna Bay: one of the beaches with the clearest waters. It is located next to Golden Bay. It is a quiet beach, with few bathers and most of those who come are Maltese.
- Ramla Bay on the island of Gozo: Gozo's quintessential red sand beach, Ramla is an ideal place for swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing.
Maltese Gastronomy
The local gastronomy of Malta is a fascinating fusion of Sicilian and Middle Eastern influences, using a variety of distinctive local ingredients such as rabbit and honey. Other foods that feature prominently in Maltese cuisine include fish, vegetables, meat, pasta, puff pastry, dates and olive oil.
When it comes to fruit, strawberries stand out and, as a traditional street food, we have the famous pastizzi: a puff pastry dough filled with ricotta cheese, meat or vegetables.
Traditional dishes you must try
The kitchen of Malta is a showcase of its past and the cultures that inhabited it: a place where you can enjoy both Italian and Arabic food, but when it comes to traditional Maltese dishes, these are the must-try:
- Aljotta: fish soup served with tomatoes, lemon, garlic and herbs
- Lampuki: one of its most emblematic fish, which you can try in the village of Marsaxlokk, in the southeast of the island. It is eaten grilled or baked.
- Fenek Stufat: this is a rabbit stew with peas, onions or carrots, and wine or meat stock is added.
- Ftira: If there's one thing Malta is known for, it's the quality of its bread, so you can't miss the Ftira, a bread that is eaten in the shape of a pizza and to which different ingredients such as tomatoes, olives, sardines, among others, are added.
- Pastizzi: As mentioned before, it is a puff pastry that is filled with cheese, vegetables or meat. It is found in most Maltese cafés.
Maltese wines: a delight for the senses
A trip to Malta will not be complete without immersing yourself in the world of its cellars and the magic hidden in its wines.
The tradition of winemaking in Malta has a history dating back to Roman times, however, it was in the 20th century that the first wineries such as Emmanuel Delicata and Marsovin were born. Thanks to this, international grape varieties were introduced to the islands.
In addition to the two native varieties, Gellewza (red) and Ghirgentina (white), today various international varieties are grown, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Moscatel and others.
Activities and entertainment
This enchanting island offers a wide range of options for those seeking excitement and fun.
For diving enthusiasts, Malta is an underwater paradise. For day or multi-day trips, Gozo is a haven of peace and nature, with breathtaking scenery, dreamy beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
When night falls, you'll find parties, bars and restaurants with the best atmosphere. Here we tell you more:
Diving in the Maltese Reefs
Diving in Malta is a true delight for the senses: caves, wrecks, reefs are some of the wonders you will be able to appreciate in your experience.
The good news is that you can dive with certified and specialised dive agencies on all the islands that make up the archipelago: Malta, Gozo and Comino. Just as novices can do the famous 'bautizo' and have a one-day experience, there are all kinds of dive plans for the more experienced.
We tell you which are the popular dive sites in Malta:
- Ghar Laps: In Malta there is Ghar Laps, a fishing village on the south coast. It has easy access to the water, with a calm bay, where numerous openings allow sunlight to illuminate a series of shallow underwater caves.
The Ghar Lapsi area is shallower than 15-20 metres and is characterised by a wide expanse of reefs that are home to typical Mediterranean marine fauna.
- Cirkewa Reef: Located in the north of the island, Cirkewa is one of the most popular diving locations, offering a wide range of underwater experiences.
From deep sea dives to exploring shipwrecks, tunnels and fascinating crevasses, the possibilities are endless!
- Anchor Bay ReefThe dive site: is noted for its narrow corridors and numerous boulders, making it a unique dive site in this area. It is especially fascinating for underwater photography enthusiasts, as it offers a captivating spectacle of algae and light effects.
- Cumin: is a tiny island located between Malta and Gozo. All around it, there are several dive sites that attract visitors.
In general, dives in this area are shallow and offer crystal clear waters, allowing exploration of caves and, surprisingly, a sunken ship. Comino is also famous for its iconic "Blue Lagoon".
Boat tour of Malta's Blue Cave: Blue Grotto
One of the island's flagship sites is Blue Grotto, a site with sea caves that form between rock cliffs, where the blue of the sea stands out and makes it a natural spectacle. It is located in Zurrieq, in the south of Malta.
The plan is to go there in the morning, as the sunlight shines on the rocks and the seawater is a striking blue. It is also a diving area, as the Um El Faroud shipwreck is located nearby.
You can get there by public transport and you can hire a boat tour on the spot. There are also restaurants with idyllic views and cafés in the area.
Excursions to Gozo
Gozo is a natural paradise, an island with a calm and relaxed atmosphere. From dreamy beaches to ancient megalithic structures, Gozo offers a unique experience of discovery and adventure. It also stands out as a more rural place than Malta.
From Malta It's easy to travel to Gozo: you can take a ferry to the island to see its landmarks and traditional villages, or book a diving experience with safe and certified agencies.
The island of Gozo is famous for its places of interest. Some of these include Calypso's Cave and the Neolithic temples of Ġgantija, which are among the oldest man-made structures. It also has famous beaches such as Ramla Bay.
You can choose a full day of sightseeing or book accommodation for more days, where you can combine visits to villages, cathedrals and temples with days at the beach or diving.
Gozo invites you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and connect with the serenity and charm of this small but extraordinary island in the archipelago of Malta.
Nightlife in Paceville
When the sun goes down, Paceville is the place to be for nightlife. At night its streets come alive with an exciting mix of bars, nightclubs, restaurants and discos that attract locals and tourists alike.
It is located in the renowned Saint Julian's neighbourhood and is noted for its lively nightlife along four main streets: Dragonara Road, Wilga Street, St. Georges Road and St. Rita Steps.
We are sure that in any of these streets you will find the perfect place to enjoy yourself according to your preferences: music lovers enjoy a wide variety of genres to enjoy, from electronic music to Latin and pop beats.
Some of the most famous nightclubs in Paceville are Havana, Sky Club, Hugo's, Medasia and Nordic Bar.
Other places to experience Malta's nightlife include Sliema (bars and restaurants) and popular nightclubs such as Gianpula, located in the town of Rabat; and Level22, located in the Portomaso Hotel in Saint Julian's.
Travel Tips for Malta
We answer the most common questions travellers ask before travelling to Malta to get the most complete experience.
First, getting to Malta via airlines low cost is very easy. When entering the European space, you can take a flight with companies such as Ryanair, Vueling or Air Malta at good prices.
Necessary documentation
The documentation required to travel to Malta in 2023 will depend directly on your country of origin:
- If you are from a member country of the European Union, you do not need a permit to visit Malta as a tourist or student, you only need to enter with your ID card. In this link you can find out if your country of origin belongs to the European Union. European Union.
If your stay is for study or work, you should apply for a residence permit.
- If you are from a non-EU country or from Latin America, you must meet several requirements such as these:
- A valid electronic or machine-readable passport with an expiry date more than six months after the end of the stay.
- Return ticket not exceeding 90 days.
- If you are staying in the private residences of relatives or friends in the countries you are visiting, you must have the original invitation form or document. The format and conditions vary from country to country. Consult the website of the embassy of the country you are visiting or go to the relevant consulate.
- In case you are staying in a hotel, present proof of booking where you are staying.
- Sufficient financial resources for your stay during the trip, which are estimated at between 50 and 100 euros per day depending on the country you are visiting and whether your stay is in a hotel or in a private residence.
- Have medical insurance in case of accident or emergency.
- International certificate of yellow fever vaccination, in case of returning or originating travel from an endemic area, within the last 6 days.
Please note that everything varies depending on your objective, as you can visit the island as a tourist, to study or to working in Malta. If you want to find out more details, here is our post on Requirements and documents to enter the European Union
Transport on the island
Malta has a well-functioning public transport system that is free for residents and students.
Tourists have to bear the costs per journey: €1.50 in winter, €2.00 in summer and €3.00 for night buses.
In order to get your Tallinja Island Transport Card, you have to register on the official website of the transport company, pay the registration fee and wait one to two weeks to receive your card at your accommodation.
You can also rent a car, motorbike or bicycle for more comfort and flexibility on your trip. Apps such as Bolt and Uber are available in Malta.
Currency and forms of payment
The official currency in Malta is the Euro (EUR). Be sure to carry some cash for small expenses and check that your credit or debit card is accepted in the country.
Language and communication
In Malta, the official language is Maltese, which has a rich linguistic heritage with influences from Arabic, Italian and other Mediterranean languages.
English is also official on the island and is spoken in official, business and educational contexts. This co-existence of languages facilitates communication for international travellers visiting the country and has made it a study destination for learning English.
At Boom Studies we provide educational counselling so that you can learn English in MaltaYou can study a Master's degree of any kind or an MBA and achieve your dream of studying abroad.
Accommodation in Malta
In Malta you have many accommodation options ranging from hotels, hostels, Airbnb, Maltese homestays, student residences and much more.
Although the most famous areas to stay in are Saint Julian's and Sliema Because of its central location and proximity to shopping centres, bars, restaurants and English language schools, we will tell you about the best accommodation options in Malta so that you can choose the option that suits you best:
Hotels in Valletta
Staying in Valletta is an excellent choice: Malta's capital city stands out for the breathtaking beauty of its old town and all its history and culture.
Although Valletta has visitors throughout the day and is buzzing with restaurants and bars, the city is very quiet and the nightlife is very relaxed. It is a central point of Malta, where you can find the main bus station to move to any point of the island.
If you are looking for a quiet place of cultural interest, you can find beautiful hotels in this area. Some of them are:
- Phoenicia Hotel: a luxury hotel that stands out for its terrace and swimming pool overlooking the rest of the city. It is characterised by good service and an experience of
- Osborne Hotel: located in one of the best streets of Valletta, with affordable prices and in a quiet area.
- Gran Harbour Hotel: 200 metres from Malta's promenade overlooking the harbour, this hotel is a great choice for amazing views and good value accommodation.
- Melior Boutique Hotel: a small hotel, good value for money and close to the Upper Barrakka Gardens (Valletta's tourist attraction) and the seafront promenade.
Accommodation in coastal areas
Malta and its beaches are always a good plan, so we present you some coastal areas where it can be a great option to stay if you are looking for a lot of sea and sun:
Mellieja, the north of the island:
In this region, just a short distance away, are Malta's famous beaches: Golden Bay and Ghajn Tuffieha.
The atmosphere is quite serene and pleasant, with a few restaurants, but no disco or bar life at night.
On the other hand, if you also plan to explore the island, you should consider that the bus journey takes about an hour or so if you leave from areas such as Valletta.
If you choose to rent a car, this is an ideal place to stay in Malta, allowing you to enjoy the beaches and explore the island with flexibility.
Some outstanding hotels in this area are:
- Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands
- db Seabank Resort + Spa All Inclusive
- Maritim Antonine Hotel & Spa
St. Pauls Bay, Bugibba and Qawra
This coastal area is very close to Mellieja, so if you are looking for accommodation close to Malta's great beaches, you could find good options in any of these three locations: St. Pauls Bay, Bugibba and Qawra.
It is a lively place in the summer where you can feel the essence of Maltese life, as it is very residential and family-oriented. The nightlife in the area is in Bugibba, but it is much quieter than Paceville.
You can also easily visit Café del Mar, one of the most touristic places for those looking for a party, good food and a very nice swimming pool overlooking the sea.
Here you can stay in hotels such as Santana, II Palazin, Dolmen or in rented flats.
Hotels are recommended options for short-term tourists, but for those travelling to study or work, the best option is to book a hostel, hotel or Airbnb for a few weeks and then get a rented flat close to the school or workplace.
Here we leave you 10 reasons to study and live in Malta
Budget for travel to Malta
In general, the cost of living in Malta is moderate compared to other European countries. Accommodation, food and transport costs are generally affordable, but may vary depending on the location and type of accommodation chosen.
Average cost of meals and activities
You know that the costs of your trip depend a lot on the areas you visit and where you stay, so here we will tell you the general average of the prices of the meals and activities you can do on the island:
Eating in Malta:
| FOOD | PRICES |
| Menu of the day including drink | In central and popular areas between € 20 and € 30. In other areas between € 10 and € 15. |
| Fast food (Mc' Donalds, Burger King or hamburger places, hot dogs...) | Between €8 - €15 per meal |
| Bottle of good quality Maltese wine | Between € 9 and € 10 |
| Bag of sliced bread | € 0.80 |
| 1.5 litre bottled water | € 0.50 |
| Litre of milk | € 0.90 |
| Dozen eggs | Between € 2 and € 3 |
| 1kg cheese | € 8 |
| 1 chicken breast | Between €7 and €8 |
| 1 kg of tomatoes | € 4 |
| Domestic beer in supermarkets | € 1 |
| Cappuccino | € 2,20 |
| 1kg potatoes | € 2 |
| 1kg apples | € 2 |
Activities in Malta:
| 2 cinema tickets | € 24 |
| 2 theatre tickets | € 28 |
| Cocktails and drinks in bars and restaurants | € 12 |
| Dinners in restaurants located in the most popular areas such as St' Jullians, Sliema and Valletta with starter, main course, dessert and drinks (2 persons) | € 125 |
| Dinners in restaurants in other areas of the island (2 persons) | € 50 |
Money-saving tips for your trip to Malta
Although the cost of your stay in Malta While it will depend on your lifestyle and how you organise your finances, there are always ways to know how to save so that your budget doesn't get out of control.
Also remember that Malta is one of the countries with the lowest cost of living in the EU, so you can have a good quality of life, at affordable prices.
- The portions of the dishes in Malta are generally very large, so often two people can eat on one plate. Look at the tables around you to see how big the plate is so that you can share.
- Most cafés on the island serve the famous pastizzi for breakfast or as a snack at any time of the day. It won't cost you more than €2.
- Fruit juices are often expensive, so use water to accompany your meals.
- The party in Paceville is affordable, as almost no place asks for an entrance fee.
- In Gozo the price of accommodation and food is much cheaper than in Malta.
- A lot of produce is imported into Malta, so try to buy and consume those fruits and vegetables that are in season and shop at local markets.
- On Sundays you can visit the village of Marsaxlokk, where you can buy fresh fish at a very good price.
- The best way to get around the island is by bus for the price, but you can also use a bicycle or skateboard to get around and save even more.
Useful information for travellers
When exploring this enchanting island, it is essential to be informed about key issues that may affect your travel experience.
From medical emergencies and health services to cultural etiquette, understanding and taking into account these important considerations will allow us to fully enjoy all that Malta has to offer.
Emergencies and health services
Whenever you travel, you should always buy health insurance, as you are never exempt from experiencing a health emergency.
Latin American citizens require valid travel insurance to enter the Schengen Area (including Malta) as tourists. This insurance must have a minimum cover of €30,000, covering the costs of emergency medical care and repatriation for medical reasons.
It is important to note that many credit cards offer these insurances when purchasing travel tickets with them. However, we recommend checking with the bank whether the cover provided is sufficient, and if not, consider paying a supplement to obtain the necessary coverage.
Generally, these insurances work as follows: when the illness or emergency occurs, you have to contact the insurance company's hotlines and they authorise you to go to a care centre. Then, after sharing your medical history and other documents such as prescriptions, they will reimburse you.
In Malta the main hospital is a public hospital called Mater Dei. It is a very large care centre with almost all medical specialties. There are also private hospitals such as St Jaimes Hospital, which has several locations on the island.
On the other hand, most pharmacies in Malta provide medical care. You should check the opening hours of this service, make an appointment and pay the consultation fee.
For more details on this topic, we recommend our post on the Access to health care in Malta.
Cultural aspects and etiquette in Malta
The Maltese are a hospitable and patriotic people, committed to caring for their country and preserving traditions. So if you are interested in their traditions, you are sure to find Maltese friends easily.
They take great care of their parks and churches and celebrate their patron saint festivals with great commitment.
Although this committed attitude to their country may generate some distrust towards foreigners, you should not be afraid of aggressive behaviour. Keep in mind that what really bothers them is tourism that is damaging and disrespectful.
On the other hand, the Maltese will appreciate it if you show genuine interest in their country and customs, take care of the places, leave no litter and respect their beliefs and celebrations.
They are very Catholic and still maintain an etiquette for entering churches: you must be well-dressed and in formal clothes, as they still prefer modesty and discretion in this type of religious events and rituals. There are no nudist beaches in Malta and it's not allowed to go to church. toples.
However, these traditions and attitudes do not make Malta a backward country. Malta has policies that reduce the gender pay gap, promote equality, respect and inclusion of diverse communities, among other things.
Best souvenirs from Malta
In Malta's main cities you will always find the best souvenirs to take home as a souvenir of its culture, traditions and historical sites. It is also the best gift for your loved ones.
In the souvenir shops in Malta there are hundreds of fun and original products to take with you. Here we tell you which ones are the most traditional:
Traditional souvenirs to take home
From handicrafts to the famous Maltese wines to gastronomic delights, here are some of Malta's most popular souvenirs. Here are some of Malta's most popular and representative souvenirs:
Handicrafts
- Limestone artefacts: is an essential element of the island, as it is present in everything: in nature and in all the buildings. When you go to souvenir shops you will find different objects such as candles, picture frames, plates and all kinds of limestone decorations.
- Filigree jewellery: one of the island's most traditional crafts and ideal for anyone who loves fine jewellery. Filigree is based on weaving delicate gold or silver threads together to make elegant ornaments or detailed jewellery.
- Blown glass: vases, plates, glasses and other colourful objects made with a technique that makes them unique. Maltese people often decorate and have blown glass items in their homes.
- Bizzilla: also known as Maltese lace, is one of Malta's oldest and most traditional handicrafts. Its origins are linked to the nobility and it is a highly prized type of lace, so much so that it is used by the high clergy and even auctioned in internationally renowned houses.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Malta is a unique destination that captivates visitors with its rich history, stunning natural beauty and warm hospitality.
This small island offers a great diversity of experiences ranging from its fascinating historical heritage to its dreamy beaches.
Malta highlights at a glance
- A paradise for history lovers: With its megalithic temples, medieval towns and ancient fortifications, Malta is a real treasure trove for history enthusiasts. Exploring its archaeological sites and museums immerses you in a journey through time.
- Beaches for all tastes: Malta has dream beaches for those looking to relax in the sun or enjoy exciting water activities such as scuba diving. From golden sandy beaches to rocky coves, there is something for everyone.
- A fusion of cultures and flavoursMalta's cuisine reflects the island's rich history, with Mediterranean and international influences. Tasting traditional Maltese dishes and exploring the culinary scene with cuisines from all over the world will enrich your palate.
- An open country: travellers will feel welcome and will find a welcoming atmosphere that will make you feel at home.
- Tour the three islands: Exploring not only the main island of Malta, but also Gozo and Comino, gives a complete picture of the beauty and diversity of the Maltese archipelago.
- A destination for the whole year: Malta offers a pleasant climate for much of the year, making it an ideal destination in all seasons. Whether enjoying the sun in summer or exploring its charm in winter, Malta has something to offer in all seasons.
In short, Malta is a destination that combines history, culture, high quality education programmes and breathtaking natural scenery, making it a must for all types of travellers and students.
From history buffs to sun and beach lovers, this Mediterranean gem has a lot to offer and will never cease to amaze visitors.
