Malta, an island country in the Mediterranean Sea, is mainly famous for its weather- over 300 days of summer and also for the shooting of many films and shows- the most famous ones being Game of Thrones, Jurassic World, and many others. It also has a very rich and interesting culture with its historic landmarks, temples, museums, and so much more. Lets see which are the places you must visit during your holidays to Malta and the things to keep in mind.
Places to visit during your holidays to Malta
There are a number of places you shall visit and explore on your holidays to Malta. These are as follows:
1. Game of Thrones and Gladiator’s filming locations:
Most of the scenes of GOT Season 1 were filmed in Malta and Gozo. So if you’re a fan, this will be on the top of your bucket list. Tick it off during your holidays to Malta by visiting their shoot locations:
-Mtahleb in Southern Malta was the most suitable location for Vaes Dothrak with its climate and scenery.
-(Spoiler alert)The Azure Window in Gozo, which is also the windiest place in Malta, was where Khal Drogo and Daenerys Targaryen got married.
–Mdina’s gates and walls were seen in GOT’s most moving scenes. Mdina, the first capital city of Malta has Mesquita Square where the fight between Jaime Lannister and Ned Stark was shot.
-San Anton Palace in Balzan is the location where Red Keepwas filmed.
-Fort Ricasoli is the place where Arya tried getting in the Red Gate only to be sent away.
-Fort St Angelo in Birgu was the location for the underground chambers and prisons.
2. Ġgantija Temples in Gozo:
Ggantija refers to ‘Gigantic,’ it is believed that it was built by a fema called Sunsuna. It is a megalithic temple that was created between 3600 and 3200 BC and rebuilt in the 19th century. They were focal points for rituals and it is said that these rituals involved animals. There are two stone temples, the third one being incomplete.
3. Valletta:
How can we miss out on the Capital of the country which has so much to offer? Even though it is one of the smallest capitals of the continent, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You must check out these places on your visit to Valletta:
Barrakka Gardens: Divided into 2- Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, Malta. These are famous public gardens which are peaceful and serene.
St. John’s Cathedral in Valletta and St. Paul’s Cathedral in Mdina: Two of the most famous churches out of the 359 churches that Malta has.
Underground Valletta: It was first built as a fortress and then as a city. This is a World Heritage Site which tells a story of its own- of strength, resistance as well as desperation.
Teatro Manuel: This is located on Theater Street and is one of the oldest working theaters in Europe, dating back to 1731. If you are interested in learning about the history of this theater, you should take a tour of it. The entry fee is €5.
Republic Street: Also referred to as Strada Reale/Kingsway, this busy and lively street is a principal street in Valletta, Malta. Enjoy Maltese recipes at King’s Own Band Club with some white wine or beer. These factors are making it obvious that the tourist should spend their holidays to malta
4. Malta’s caves:
There are so many sea caves. You should visit them by booking a guided half-day or full-day tour. Blue Grotto, Crystal Lagoon, and Blue Lagoon are a few stunning and breathtaking places to visit.
5. Gozo island:
A place with beaches, historical sites, and beautiful landscapes can never go wrong. You can experience so many things here including-
Horseback riding
Visit the Tal-Mixta cave to enjoy Ramla Bay views.
Eat at Ta’Rikardu restaurant.
Visit underground caves such as Xerri’s Grotto and Ninu’s cave.
Go for wine tasting at Tal-Massar winery.
Visit Ta Pinu church
Visit picturesque villages such as il-Fontana, Xlendi, L-Gharb, and Kercem.
What you need to know before going for holidays to Malta
If you’re going for your holidays to Malta, you need to keep the following things in mind:
88% of the population speaks English here, which is also their second official language.
Driving on the left side and if you’re from other parts of the world where driving is on the right then it may cause an issue for you. So to avoid that, you can opt for public transport that is available for a reasonable price.
You should carry a comfortable, water-resistant, handy yet spacious backpack.
Malta has high summer temperatures so pack light cotton or linen clothes, comfortable flip-flops or shoes, and casuals. Do not forget to take your sunscreen and other accessories such as hats, sunglasses, etc.
You can drink tap water here in Malta which is safe to drink. Do carry your own water bottle regardless.
The power plugs in Malta are type G with the standard voltage being 230 V. You might need a Universal adapter.
If you are going during the summer, then you need beach essentials which include a microfiber towel.
When you are visiting religious sites, you need to respect the religion and culture there- and not show your knees or shoulders.
There is no central heating in Malta, so do carry a lightweight jacket to keep you warm, just in case.
You will need proper hiking shoes for hiking on the trails.
There are a lot of bugs and insects so make sure you are carrying an Insect and Mosquito Repellent.
It is a conservative country so be respectful when you go for your holidays to Malta.
Conclusion
Malta is culturally and historically rich, offers wonderful things to do, and has some really unique places to see. So it is a great plan to go for your holidays to Malta. Feedhour recommends you go to the official website of TUI to book your stay beforehand.