Seven Days of History and Adventure in Malta and Gozo

Malta is an archipelago located in the heart of the Central Mediterranean. It consists of three main islands – Malta, Gozo, and Comino. Despite its modest size, the archipelago is incredibly rich in culture and history, offering everything needed for an unforgettable experience, whether it’s a tourist adventure, a family trip, or a luxury vacation.

One of the most important features to note during your stay in Malta is its people. The Maltese stand out for their genuinely caring nature and openness to conversation, creating a unique sense of welcoming sophistication that may be difficult to find in other countries. It is a picturesque country that promises warm water, fantastic unusual cliffs, and a feeling of coziness.

Transport in Malta: Practical Tips

The bus system on the archipelago is well-developed and efficient, and Google Maps provides extremely accurate information about times and routes. This makes traveling around Malta simple and convenient.

Bus Service

Frequent travelers can purchase a 7-day bus pass, which costs 21 euros. This pass is extremely cost-effective, as it is valid on both the main island of Malta and Gozo. For comparison, a single bus ride ticket costs 2 euros.

Sometimes buses in Malta have to pass through old villages that were historically not built for the existing traffic flow. Therefore, passengers should not worry if their bus is 10 minutes late.

Getting Around Gozo

Gozo Island offers a calmer and less traffic-congested space for exploration. For maximum freedom of movement and enjoyment of the scenery, you can rent a scooter. This is the best way to explore Gozo. The ride through quiet villages and along beautiful coastlines creates an extremely pleasant experience. A scooter gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace and saves time. Those who prefer rented transport can use the services of the company Hammerhead.

Recommended 7-Day Itinerary

Malta holds a lot of interesting things in a relatively small area. Experiences will never run out, regardless of the length of your trip.

Day 1: Arrival and Valletta

Even if your flight arrives late in the evening, getting to Valletta is very easy. Taxis with fixed fares for travel across the island operate at the airport. You need to queue, pay the fee, get a ticket, and you will be escorted to the car.

From the very first minutes, you can get acquainted with Maltese hospitality. Drivers can share travel tips and historical information with you.

Day 2: Natural Pools and Fishing Harbor

Start the day with a quick bite. For breakfast or lunch, you can visit “No. 43” in Valletta – a small salad bar known for its large portions, low prices, and excellent takeout food.

St. Peter’s Pool is a wonderful natural circular pool, surrounded by pearl-white cliffs. To get there, take a bus to Marsaxlokk, get off immediately after the town, and walk for about 20 minutes. As this is a hot tourist spot, it can be crowded, but you can always find a secluded corner to admire the wonderful views by the water. The main highlight is the opportunity to jump off the cliff into the pool. For a calmer rest, you can swim to the farthest rock and walk along the salt pans. This way, you can reach the neighboring bay of Il-Ħofra l-Kbira. There are fewer crowds there, and fantastic views of the high white cliffs open up.

After spending time by the pool, you can head to Marsaxlokk (which means South Port). This cozy coastal town is Malta’s main fishing harbor. It is surrounded by traditional rainbow fishing boats, luzzu. On weekdays, you can buy fresh fish directly from the boats here.

Returning to Valletta by bus, it is worth walking along the coastal walls of the city to enjoy the sunset. Dinner can be spent in a family Italian restaurant, where you will once again experience authentic and friendly Maltese hospitality.

Be sure to walk the city streets after dinner. The cozy lighting allows you to appreciate the tranquility of the city and the captivating stone buildings and walls. It is recommended to visit the entrance bridge to admire the city’s facade from the illuminated fountain. Valletta, despite being the smallest capital in Europe, leaves a deep visual impression.

Day 3: Road to Gozo and Comino Island

Before setting off, you can dedicate the morning to exploring the narrow streets of Valletta. To get to the ferry terminal in Cirkewwa, take a bus immediately after the main city entrance. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours, but you should allow at least 2 hours, as buses pass through small villages.

The bus drops passengers off right in front of the port, where you can quickly buy a ticket for the 20-minute ferry to Mgarr, Gozo.

From Mgarr port, you can take a local boat to Comino, which costs 10 euros (round trip). The boat departs every 45 minutes. The boat drops passengers off in the heart of Comino. In peak season, this place is certainly beautiful, but crowded with tourists, kiosks, paid sun loungers, and noisy speedboats.

For a calm rest, you can swim across Comino to the tiny island of Cominotto. Or, even better, walk away from the lagoon towards San Niklaw Bay and take a 5-minute walk along a bright red dirt path to find a secret spot west of the bay. There, you can enjoy the same calm waters and amazing views, sharing the experience with only a small number of people. This is the ideal place for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling, with the opportunity to swim into a wonderful cave.

Return on the last boat to Gozo. To be able to easily get around in any direction, you can stay in the center of the island (e.g., in Xewkija). In Gozo, there is an opportunity to stay in old, restored farmhouses, which is a charming option.

Day 4: Adventures in Gozo

Start with Ramla Bay, known for its beautiful red sands. Tal Mixta Cave is also a reason to visit the bay. The cave is above the beach and offers an incredible view of the bay. The cave can be reached by a path leading up to the top of the hill. Near the cave, there is a path along the coast, where you can find secluded spots on the ocean boulders for sunbathing and snorkeling among the fish.

Continue along the coast to Qolla I-Bajda – a former artillery battery built in 1715. The place is surrounded by salt pans. These salt pans are a characteristic feature of the northern part of Gozo and make for captivating photographs, adding another diverse landscape to Malta.

Next is Wied il-Għasri – a secluded pebble beach nestled between two high cliffs. It is a great place for swimming, located off the beaten path, and the view from the surrounding cliffs is breathtaking.

The next stop is the location of the now-destroyed Azure Window. Although the famous natural arch is no longer there, this stretch of coastline with high cliffs and interesting landscape is still a must-visit.

On the way to the final destination, visit the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta’ Pinu. This gigantic religious shrine, built on a stone platform, has great religious significance for the island and contains fantastic statues and paintings.

Finish the day at Xlendi Bay. This place is ideal for sunset, as it is located directly opposite the setting sun. The opportunity to swim in the waters of Xlendi Bay grotto during sunset creates the perfect ending to an amazing day.

Day 5: Diving and Festa

Malta is considered a mecca for diving due to numerous attractive underground rock structures and a significant number of shipwrecks.

Recommended diving spots in Gozo:

• MV Karwela Wreck
• Double Arch Cave
• Inland Sea Tunnel
• The Blue Hole
• Bristol Blenheim Mark IV

From May to September, the Maltese festa takes place every evening in different parts of Malta and Gozo, in honor of the patron saint of each village. The celebration consists of marching bands, a Catherine wheel celebration, and fireworks. Visiting such a festival will give you a fantastic experience – seeing the band carrying its saint and feeling the pride of the community and their authentic traditions. Also visit Gozo’s main city – Victoria, and explore the Citadel.

Day 6: Mdina

Mdina, also known as the “Silent City,” is a small medieval fortified city and an architectural masterpiece located on a hill. This city was once home to Malta’s noble families. The Mdina Gate, or Vilhena Gate – the main entrance to Mdina built in 1724 in the Baroque style – is a stunning introduction to the city.

Take time to wander the narrow streets of Mdina, appreciate St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the captivating architectural details. Mdina was also used as a filming location in the series “Game of Thrones.”

Pay special attention to the doors. Malta is famous for its rustic, bright, and elegant doorways, and Mdina is their embodiment.

A must-try gourmet tip – the best pastizzi in Malta. You can taste them at Is-Serkin Crystal Palace Bar, a small bar outside the fortress city, not far from the main gate.

Day 7: Departure

For breakfast in the morning, pastizzi is a good choice. Take another walk through the city streets to remember the atmosphere of the city. Take one of the local buses to the airport. Since Malta is tiny, getting to the airport is not difficult, regardless of your location.

Summary of Useful Tips for Travelers

• Dedicate more time to Gozo: Do not limit yourself to a day trip. Gozo deserves much more time. This island resembles what the main island of Malta once was. For an authentic Maltese experience, it is worth focusing your trip around Gozo.
• Rent a scooter in Gozo: This is the best way to explore the island. Having your own transport saves time and gives you freedom of movement, as there is less traffic in Gozo than on the main island.
• Accommodation in farmhouses: It is recommended to stay in recently renovated farmhouses. These small estates are charming and comfortable, preserving interior features but having all the necessary modern appliances.
• Bus pass: Be sure to purchase a 7-day bus ticket for 21 euros, which covers Malta and Gozo.
• Pastizzi: Be sure to try these puff pastries – they are a real local delight.
• Snorkeling mask: Don’t forget your mask! With so much coastline to explore, a mask is a real must-have.
• Stay hydrated: Watermelon is a valuable product. Due to the scorching sun, it is sold everywhere. This is an excellent way to maintain hydration and energy levels.
• Doors of Malta: Pay special attention to the doors! Malta is known for its beautiful, bright, and elegant doorways.

This place will leave a visual impression that is second to none compared to other countries.