Discover Malta: where ancient history and opulence collide

There’s a moment in every first-time trip to Malta when you ask yourself, ‘Why didn’t I visit sooner?’

Given the detailed tapestry of natural beauty, history and culture this European jewel possesses, it’s a fair question… yet there are other more important ones to consider.

For starters, which secluded cove should I dive into today? Should I slot that in before visiting the 7,500-year-old temples or after the seafood lunch and underground wine tour?

The beauty of Malta is there’s no right or wrong choice – it’s an island getaway where every step leads to an incredible experience, and that’s before you even get started on the finer side of life, where palaces-turned-hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants are only the beginning.

What else does Malta have to offer? These are some of the essentials.

What to see and do in Malta

Nestled in the Mediterranean between Sicily and North Africa, Malta has been a crossroads of Arabic, British, Roman and Phoenician culture for millennia.

These influences are still on display, from medieval and Baroque architecture in the walled city of Mdina, to Arabic-infused cuisine, which tickles your palate and invites you back for bite after bite.

For cultural buffs, the five islands of Malta present an array of historic sites, including three inscribed by UNESCO.

The largest is the honey-hued capital itself: Valletta, which boasts a staggering 320 monuments in an area less than a quarter the size of Sydney CBD.

Strolling amid its walkable streets, gazing up at the oval dome atop the Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, stepping into sprawling squares or criss-crossing the harbour by a gondolier-like ‘dghajsa’ boat, it becomes apparent you can’t see it all in one trip – and there’s more beyond Valletta alone.

There’s also the extraordinary landscape, punctuated by tiny villages, terraced fields, rugged coves and jaw-dropping beaches.

The rust sands of Ramla Bay on Gozo island, the butterscotch swirl of Ghajn Tuffieha, and family-friendly Mellieha Bay all deserve special mention. 

And if you’re in the mood for sailing or scuba diving,  you’ll be in your element: the seabed is brimming with British and German shipwrecks, alongside reefs, walls and caves teeming with wildlife.

Add to this a surprising 3,000-plus years of winemaking heritage, and you have the complete package.

Marcasar Vineyards, which embraces the Georgian style of wine production, using Qvevris clay pots in place of wooden casks, and San Niklaw Estate, with its 19th century underground cellar are both must visits, as are the fabulous Marsovin and Ta’ betta.

Personalised tours with local guides, tastings of rare and exclusive vintages with winemakers, and sailing tours with fresh seafood cooked onboard can all be easily arranged, and you’ll be glad you did – because it’s not just the location making Malta so special, it’s the warmth of its people.

Where to stay in Malta

With so many ways to fill your days, you’ll need somewhere to kick back and relax, in style.

For this, there are lavish options from boutique hotels to high-end resorts, including several where Malta’s traditions and heritage blend seamlessly with modern luxuries.

Among the standouts are Domus Zamittello, a meticulously-restored 16th-century palazzo, and Xara Palace Relais & Chateau, nestled behind the walls of the Silent City of Mdina.

Corinthia Palace Malta is exquisite too, with its split-level pool and gardens. 

These sit alongside local icons such as The Phoenicia (where Queen Elizabeth II was a repeat guest), as well as more contemporary options, like Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz and Iniala Harbour House, overlooking the stunning Grand Harbour. 

Where to dine in Malta

Travel is always better with a great meal, exceptional wine and a story behind each bite.

And Malta delivers on every count. In fact, these are among the greatest reasons of all to visit.

Seven Michelin-starred restaurants called these sun-bleached islands home, taking heady inspiration from the bounty of local produce, backed by a roll call of ‘Bib Gourmand’ listed venues that deliver the goods on flavour and service but are easier on the hip pocket. 

Two-starred ION Harbour by Simon Rogan, perched on the rooftop of Iniala Harbour House, matches its sea-to-table feasts and extensive wine list with a  breath-taking view.

One-starred Noni, Le GV and De Mondrian are a handful of the other signature essentials, though, in truth, you can’t go wrong no matter where you book a table. 

For a low-key-yet-still-delectable experience, head to the Is-Suq Tal-Belt food market: a Maltese Heritage site spanning three floors and filled with a smorgasbord of local and international cuisine (try the Maltese Street food at Merkanti.)

Wherever you go, whatever you choose to do, the most important thing is you’ve taken that first step – you’ve made the journey and your reward is a destination ripe with opportunity.

The only question is, why didn’t you visit Malta sooner?

Plan your luxury Malta trip today at visitmalta.com/en/ 

This article was produced in collaboration with Visit Malta.