Are you dreaming of a sunshine-drenched escape, steeped in history and brimming with island charm? Look no further than Malta, a captivating archipelago in the heart of the Mediterranean that’s eagerly awaiting your exploration.
From ancient temples to bustling Baroque cities, crystal-clear waters to delectable cuisine, Malta offers a truly unique adventure that will resonate deeply with your Croatian soul. Get ready to swap the Adriatic for the Maltese embrace and discover a land where every corner tells a tale.
Before you even step foot on Maltese soil, a bit of preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable holiday. Think of it as laying the groundwork for an unforgettable experience.
As Croatia is part of the European Union, your journey to Malta will be delightfully straightforward. You won't need a visa; your valid Croatian passport or national ID card is all you require for entry. Easy peasy!
Regarding currency, Malta, like Croatia, uses the Euro (€). This makes financial transactions seamless and eliminates the hassle of currency exchange. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted across the islands, from bustling shops to cosy restaurants, but it's always wise to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or local markets. Tipping is customary in Malta, generally around 5-10% for good service, but do check if a service charge has already been included in your bill.
Croatian tourists looking to jet off to Malta have a surprisingly smooth journey ahead. Ryanair is your usual go-to for direct flights, often whisking you from Zagreb to Malta International Airport (MLA) in 2 hours. While direct routes are generally offered by budget airlines, you might also find connecting flights with carriers like Lufthansa or Air Serbia, though these will naturally add a bit of an adventure to your travel time. Keep an eye on price comparison websites for those bargain fares. Flexibility with your travel dates is key to snagging a sweet deal.
Once you've touched down in glorious Malta, you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to bedding down for the night. From swanky resorts in St. Julian's and Sliema to charming boutique hotels nestled within Valletta's ancient walls, there's a perfect pillow for every purse and personality. If you're seeking a more authentic, home-away-from-home vibe, consider a guesthouse or a private apartment, often found in picturesque villages or with stunning sea views. Many offer self-catering facilities, perfect for those who fancy dabbling in Maltese cuisine themselves.
Malta boasts a Mediterranean climate, meaning hot, sunny summers and mild, somewhat rainy winters. The best time to visit for most Croatian travellers, especially if you love swimming, is from late spring to early autumn, around April to October.
Pack light, breathable clothing – think linen, cotton, and swimwear galore. Don't forget a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-factor sunscreen; the Maltese sun is glorious but can be intense. Even in the warmer months, a light jacket or cardigan is a good idea for cooler evenings or air-conditioned interiors. If you plan to explore the island's many historical sites, comfortable walking shoes are an absolute must. Trust me, you'll be doing a lot of wandering through cobbled streets and ancient paths.
For those travelling in the cooler months from November to March, be prepared for occasional rain and wind. A waterproof jacket and an umbrella will be your best friends. While temperatures remain mild, a few layers will ensure your comfort.
One crucial item often overlooked is a travel adapter. Malta uses Type G sockets, the same as the UK, which means three rectangular pins. Your Croatian plugs won't fit, so be sure to purchase an adapter before you leave home to keep all your gadgets charged and ready to capture those stunning Maltese moments.
Malta’s history is a tapestry woven with threads of diverse civilisations – Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Knights of St John, and the British—each leaving an indelible mark. Exploring its historical towns is like walking through living museums, with stories echoing from every stone.
Your Maltese journey simply must begin in Valletta, the island’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This fortified city, built by the Knights of St John after the Great Siege of 1565, is a stunning example of Baroque architecture. Its grid-like streets are a joy to wander, revealing grand palaces, ornate churches, and charming squares at every turn.
Don't miss the awe-inspiring St John’s Co-Cathedral, a seemingly unassuming exterior hiding an explosion of Baroque artistry within. Its opulent interior, adorned with gold, marble, and masterpieces by Caravaggio, will leave you breathless. The Grand Master's Palace, once the residence of the Knights' leaders, now houses the President's office and a fascinating armoury.
Take a stroll through the Upper Barrakka Gardens, offering panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. At midday, witness the ceremonial firing of the saluting battery, a spectacular and evocative tradition. Valletta also offers a vibrant cultural scene with museums, art galleries, and plenty of delightful cafes and restaurants where you can savour Maltese cuisine.
Perched majestically on a hilltop in the centre of Malta, Mdina, often referred to as the "Silent City", is a fortified medieval gem. Stepping through its impressive Main Gate is like travelling back in time. With its narrow, winding alleys, ancient noble palaces, and quiet courtyards, Mdina exudes an air of timeless tranquillity. Horse-drawn karozzini (carriages) add to the romantic atmosphere.
Within Mdina, explore St Paul's Cathedral, an architectural marvel, and the various noble homes that showcase centuries of aristocratic life. As you wander, soak in the panoramic views of the island from its bastions—on a clear day, you can see all the way to the coast.
Just outside Mdina’s walls lies Rabat, a larger and more vibrant town that holds its own wealth of historical treasures. Rabat is home to the fascinating St Paul's Catacombs, an extensive network of underground burial chambers dating back to Roman times. Explore this labyrinthine site for a truly unique glimpse into ancient Malta. The Domus Romana, a Roman villa museum, also offers insights into the island's Roman past. Rabat provides a more authentic local experience, with bustling streets, traditional shops, and welcoming eateries.
Across the Grand Harbour from Valletta, you'll find the historic "Three Cities"—Vittoriosa (Birgu), Senglea (Isla), and Cospicua (Bormla). These fortified towns predate Valletta and were the first homes of the Knights of St John when they arrived in Malta. They bore the brunt of the Great Siege, and their resilience is palpable.
Vittoriosa is particularly charming, with its quaint waterfront, historic buildings, and the impressive Fort St Angelo standing proudly at its tip. Explore the Inquisitor’s Palace, a chilling yet fascinating insight into Malta's religious and judicial past. Senglea offers stunning views of Valletta from its Gardjola Gardens, while Cospicua connects the three, offering a more residential feel.
Wandering through the narrow, shaded streets of the Three Cities, you’ll discover a sense of authentic Maltese life, away from the more overtly touristy areas. They offer a more intimate connection with the island's rich maritime history and provide excellent opportunities for photography.
No trip to the Maltese archipelago is complete without a visit to Gozo, Malta's smaller, greener, and more tranquil sister island. A short ferry ride transports you to a different pace of life, where rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and idyllic beaches await.
In Gozo, the capital, Victoria (also known as Rabat in Gozo), is dominated by the majestic Citadella. This fortified city within a city offers incredible 360-degree views of Gozo and the surrounding sea. Inside its ancient walls, you'll find a beautiful cathedral, museums, and quiet alleys.
Gozo is also home to the Ġgantija Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and some of the oldest freestanding structures in the world, predating Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. These megalithic temples are a testament to Malta’s ancient past and are truly awe-inspiring.
Beyond the historical sites, Gozo offers stunning natural beauty. Visit the dramatic cliffs of Dwejra (though the famous Azure Window sadly collapsed, the area remains breathtaking), or relax on the sandy beaches of Ramla Bay.
To ensure your Maltese adventure is as enjoyable as possible, here are some practical tips that will enhance your experience.
While English is an official language and widely spoken throughout Malta, and Italian is also quite common, attempting a few basic Maltese phrases will undoubtedly charm the locals. The Maltese language is a fascinating blend of Arabic, Italian, and English, making it truly unique.
Maltese society is generally conservative, especially when it comes to religious sites. When visiting churches, cathedrals, or other places of worship, dress modestly. This usually means covering your shoulders and knees. It's a good idea to carry a light shawl or sarong in your bag for this purpose. While beachwear is perfectly acceptable by the sea, avoid walking around town shirtless or in revealing swimwear.
Maltese cuisine is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean and North African influences, reflecting its diverse history. Be sure to indulge in local specialities! Try Pastizzi, flaky pastries typically filled with ricotta cheese (tal-irkotta) or mushy peas (tal-piżelli). They are the ultimate Maltese snack, perfect for a quick bite on the go. Stuffat tal-Fenek (rabbit stew) is considered the national dish and is a must-try for meat lovers.
Seafood is abundant and fresh, with Lampuki (Dorado fish) pie being a popular choice. Don’t shy away from Ħobż biż-Żejt, thick slices of Maltese bread rubbed with ripe tomatoes, drizzled with olive oil, and filled with tuna, capers, onions, and herbs. For dessert, look for Imqaret, fried date pastries, and try the local honey, a nod to Malta's ancient name, Melita, meaning "land of honey."
If your trip coincides with a local festa, you're in for a treat! These vibrant village feasts, held in honour of patron saints throughout the summer months, are an integral part of Maltese culture. Expect lively processions, brass bands, elaborate street decorations, dazzling fireworks displays, and plenty of delicious food and drink. It's a fantastic way to experience authentic Maltese community spirit and joy.
While public transport serves the main routes, to truly immerse yourself in the heart of Malta and uncover its hidden gems at your own pace, a rental car is an absolute game-changer. With your own vehicle, you can easily traverse the entire island of Malta and even take a short ferry ride to Gozo, transforming your holiday into a seamless island-hopping adventure. No waiting for buses, no adhering to fixed schedules—just pure, unadulterated exploration.
Driving in Malta is on the left-hand side of the road, similar to the UK, which might take a little getting used to for Croatian drivers. However, the roads are generally well-maintained, and signage is clear. Renting a car gives you unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to venture beyond the main tourist hubs and explore the picturesque rural landscapes, charming fishing villages like Marsaxlokk, and ancient archaeological sites that are less accessible by bus.
So, as you plan your unforgettable trip to the heart of Malta, make that critical decision now. Book your rental car on Finalrentals and unlock the full potential of this magnificent Mediterranean jewel. Don't just visit Malta; truly experience it, on your terms!
