One of the most walkable places in Europe can be explored in just a weekend: what to see and do in Malta

Malta is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Travelers are attracted to the island's warm Mediterranean climate and historical sights. Malta has an area of only 316 square kilometers, which means that even a weekend is enough to see the most interesting places.

It's also a fantastic place for those who want to spend the winter in warm regions - the temperature in winter rarely drops below 15 °C. The historic center of Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Express publication tells what is interesting in Malta and why you should definitely visit this island.

Valletta

Experts do not recommend Malta exclusively for beach vacations, as most of its coastline is uneven and rocky, but there are some fantastic places to see on the island.

From the international airport, the center of the Maltese capital, Valletta, can be reached in just 15 minutes by taxi or 30 minutes by bus (ticket costs 2.5 euros).

In Valletta, it is worth visiting St. John's Cathedral to see Caravaggio's "Beheading of John the Baptist" and the impressive interior of the church. The painting is the only one in existence that bears the artist's signature. Keep in mind that the cathedral is closed every Sunday and on public holidays.

The Barracca Gardens offer panoramic views of the Grand Harbor, and it's best to get there before noon or 4 p.m. if you want to see and hear the daily cannon salute. The gardens of the Lower Barracks, located a short walk away, offer incredible views of the sea.

If you are looking for something out of the ordinary, be sure to visit the Mysterium Fidei Monastery. The monastery, which was home to nuns for hundreds of years, is now open to the public and offers an interesting historical tour. You can relax in the beautiful monastery courtyard, an oasis of greenery and silence in the city center. Since Valletta is very small, it is easy to get around the city on foot.

There are many great accommodation options in Valletta, but if you want to enjoy the sea more, book a hotel in the nearby seaside town of St. Julian's.

Mdina

Mdina is a fortified city in Malta. Before entering the city walls, be sure to stop at Serkin Crystal Palace, a small cafe known for its pastizzi. Pastizzi is a Maltese delicacy: a crispy pastry filled with soft curry peas.

Mdina is known as the "quiet city" because many residents of the walled city left when it lost its status as the capital. Cars are banned in Mdina, except for those belonging to local residents. Fans of Game of Thrones may recognize the city gate as King's Landing.

Grotto on the island of Gozo

Gozo is an island that is just a 45-minute ferry ride from Valletta. There are several beautiful beaches on the island - head to Dwejra Bay, a beautiful bay to enjoy the views, or to Ramla Bay, which has a sandy shore. Unfortunately, the island's famous Azure Window, a 28-meter natural rock arch, collapsed in 2017. While in Gozo, try phtira, a delicious pastry usually sprinkled with tuna and tomatoes.

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