About Malta
Malta, the island country, is one of the eminent trade points in Europe. It is tourists’ favourite as the Mediterranean Sea surrounds this beautiful island country. Malta consists of three islands – Malta, Gozo, and Comini. Here, you will find grand cathedrals, villages, and waterfronts. Rabbit stew, Lampuki pie, Kapunata, widow’s soup, and Bragioli are some of the most delicious dishes in the country. Several local and famous restaurants serve them with mouth-watering flavours.
Malta experiences a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers; warm autumn with intermittent rain; and brief winters. Each season enlightens a different aspect of this country. Summers are ideal for exploring religious festivals and concerts, while autumn is perfect for sightseeing.
Places to visit in Malta
The places below can help you form your ideal itinerary for your trip to Malta.
- Valletta: Valletta is the grand capital of the Republic of Malta. The major attractions of this capital city are the palaces, churches, and museums. The Grandmaster Palace and the St. John co-cathedral are must-visits. The National Museum of Archaeology is perfect to have a glimpse of the historical prominence of the country.
- Tarxien Temples: Tarxien Temples are Malta's most prominent and best-preserved prehistoric site. It comprises four megalithic complexes recognised by UNESCO. Some exquisite replicas of the stone sculptures make this site historically significant.
- Island of Gozo: The Island of Gozo is home to peaceful towns and spectacular beaches. There are many significant cultural landmarks here. The Maltese Islands and the Ggantija Temples are magnificent. The Ggantija temples date back to roughly 3500 B.C.
- Popeye Village: Every Popeye fan gets elated to learn about this village. It was the film set for the Robin William-film, “Popeye”. Relive the magic of this magnificent land as it is home to various characters, shops, and municipal buildings. Here, nostalgia is in full swing.
- Mdina: Mdina is a medieval hilltop town. This UNESCO World Heritage Site looks as if it has come out of a fairytale. Old sandstone buildings form the heart of Mdina. St. Paul's Cathedral is one of the top attractions in this town. It is a magnificent Baroque structure designed by Maltese architect, Lorenzo Gafa. The Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum in Mdina is exceptional. It showcases exquisite artwork, antiques, Oriental carpets, and a picturesque collection of coins.
- Blue Lagoon: Blue Lagoon is a natural beach in Malta. There are no waves here as the water is temperate. This beach is perfect for some family time. It looks like a gigantic swimming pool and is also brilliant for swimming, splashing around, or floating on inflatable tubes. Tourists usually rent a lounge chair and an umbrella to wind down at the edge. You can enjoy ice cream, cool beverages, and snacks while looking at the stretched-out water. Dolphins, sea lions, and other marine creatures make Blue Lagoon a favourite.
- Mellieha: Mellieha is a coastal town amid the aesthetic landscape of northwest Malta. Mellieha Beach is the longest stretch of sandy shore on the Maltese Islands, with a one-and-a-half km shoreline of white sand.
Malta Airport (MLA)
Malta Airport (MLA) serves as the commercial airport in Malta. It is almost 8 km from the city centre. There is one terminal divided into domestic and international flight zones. This airport provides several services like Wi-Fi, a VIP lounge, currency exchange counters, and bookshops. Buses, shuttles, and taxis connect the Malta Airport to almost every significant part of Malta. They are easily accessible and reasonable.
Important things to remember before visiting Malta
- Most Maltese people speak English. It makes communication easier. But learning a few Maltese words always helps.
- Try visiting the open-air markets and shops to find local souvenirs.
Malta visa requirements
An Indian passport holder needs a Schengen visa to visit Malta. As Malta is one of the countries under the Schengen agreement, a Schengen/Malta visa works. These are required to apply for the same:
- A passport.
- Your recent passport-size photographs.
- A return ticket. It should show the date of departure.
- Hotel booking/s.
- Travel insurance.
- Testimony for financial support.
- A detailed itinerary.