7 Reasons Why Malta Is The Dream Travel Destination
There’s more to a Mediterranean getaway than staring at the Santorini sunset with a slice of pizza, or enjoying a glass of bubbly in a Barcelona nightclub. Don’t get us wrong, we’re not saying that these aren’t travel bucket list-worthy—but there are less populated dream destinations worthy of your attention. Take for instance, Malta.
Charming, glorious, heritage-rich, underrated Malta.
Located just below Italy, this 7000-year-old island country is just a 40-minute plane ride from Sicily. It boasts of deep, blue waters, magnificent limestones, three UNESCO World Heritage sites, and a low crime rate. (And yes, the toy dog breed, Maltese, originated here, too—can this place get any more perfect?)
Here are 7 reasons why this quiet island deserves to be on your go-to list.
1. Gin-clear waters you’ve never seen before
Malta is an archipelago surrounded by the great big blue. Swim in the vibrant azure waters of the Blue Lagoon, take a trip to the Blue Grotto to witness the beauty of the sea reflected in ancient caves, and hit the unspoiled shores of Malta.
2. Breathtaking architecture influenced by the Baroque era
Walk around the streets of the country’s capital city, Valletta, and fall in love with its charming historical buildings. With timeless elegance, this UNESCO world heritage site gives visitors a glimpse of ancient history around every corner.
3. A perfectly preserved walled city
On top of a large hill, in the center of the island, lies a fortified city known as Mdina, where many wealthy families once lived. No vehicles are allowed here, which gave the place its nickname, “The Silent City”. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you might as well include Mdina in your pilgrimage; scenes from season 1 were shot in this medieval town.
4. A magnificent church where knights used to meet
Malta is home to one of the most magnificent baroque churches in the world. Built over 400 years ago, St. John’s Co-Cathedral was where knights once gathered for communal worship. Visitors shouldn’t miss out on the church’s magnificent marble floor—a series of tombs that house around 400 knights and officers.
5. A beautiful 285-year-old theatre
Constructed in 1731 to entertain knights, The Manoel is one of the oldest working auditoriums in Europe. Theatre enthusiasts can catch opera productions here, both by local and international performers.
6. Megalithic temples older than the Ancient Pyramids
Malta has three UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Tarxien temples—megalithic structures that are way older than the Ancient Pyramids of Egypt and Stonehenge in England.
7. An exclusive nightclub with THIS view!
One of Malta’s most exclusive nightclubs is a chic wine lounge located located at the country’s tallest high-rise. Give Twenty Two a visit and enjoy a glass of martini as you take in the breathtaking 360-degree view of the island.