Top 5 Things to do in Malta
Top 5 Things to Do in Malta
1. Explore Prehistoric Temples
The Megalithic Temples of Malta are part of a cultural heritage that dates back further than the great pyramids of Egypt. In 1980, Malta’s seven prehistoric temples were placed on UNESCO’s world heritage list. Each temples is a unique testament to the resourcefulness of early Maltese builders given the small selection of materials available, as well as the importance of temple culture in early Maltese history.
The Ggantija complex on the island of Gozo is better known as the ‘Giant’s Dwelling’. The group of temples was given for the names for the size of the freestanding boulders that locals believed only a Giant could have lifted into place. The temple dates back to 3600 – 3200 BCE making them among the oldest surviving temples of their kind. Named for the giantess who supposedly built the temple, this architectural masterpiece is a must see on any Malta itinerary.
On the mainland island of Malta, the temples of Hagar Qim, Mnajdra and Tarxien are well worth a visit for their unqiue architectural structures. The Ta' Hagrat and Skorba complexes show the strong influence of temple religion in prehistoric society.
2. Take in the view of the Maltese countryside at Cafe at Fontanella
Located in the UNESCO heritage city, Mdina, Café Fontanella sits at the top of the bastion, overlooking the stunning Maltese countryside. This café is not your average open air view establishment.
The entire business has been created around the old fortress so you can climb through tiny passageways or up and down winding staircases to find the perfect place to seat. Chairs are set up on the terraces, in the cozy stone rooms and even in passageways, so choose your ambiance!
3. Paceville at Night
For those looking for some respite after a day of touring, a night out in Paceville, St. Julians offers just the right mix of heart pumping discos and lively entertainment. Here in Paceville, you can find the bulk of Malta’s clubs. The scene is chock full of music clubs and bars, suited to almost any taste. Choose from house, techno, R&B, hip-hop, salsa, alternative and rock bars. Or try your hand at bowling, catch a a movie at the cinema, get rowdy in a sports bar or slip into one of the gentleman’s clubs.
4. Take a Cruise through the Blue Grotto
A sail through the Azure window in the Blue Grotto is one of the picture perfect moments any traveler to Malta needs to capture. Formed by millions of years of erosion, the Blue Grotto’s namesake, its characteristic Mediterranean waters, offers stunning sunset views and the chance to feel as if you are a part of one of Homer’s epics.
5. Explore Valetta – City of Knights
Following the occupation of the Ottomans in 1565, Valetta was founded by the infamous ‘Knights of Malta.’ This staircase of a capital is a sight to behold, and a wear on your legs! But the walk up and down the flanks of the city is well worth the effort. Nearly 5 civilizations worth of architecture crowds this small space, with forts, cathedrals, bastions and old canons to make your way through. But its no disorganized mess. Valetta’s grid like capital has been hailed as one of the most organized cities in Europe so you’d be hard pressed to find yourself lost here.
Make sure to stop for a visit at the Lower and Upper Bakrrakka gardens where you can catch a view of the world’s deepest natural Harbor, the Grand Harbor as well as the stunning vista encompassing the three old cities: Birgu, Bormla and Isla.
