Discover the beauty & Culture of Malta

Discovering Malta:

A Journey Through Time, Culture, and Beauty

I recently had the chance to experience the Discover Malta tour with Travelsphere and Just You — and what an unforgettable trip it turned out to be! Normally, this is an 8-day escorted tour, but since I was there on an educational visit, I squeezed it all into 5 days. That meant a bit less free time than usual, but it was still an amazing experience filled with history, culture, and beautiful scenery.

A Taste of Local Life

For me, the best part of any trip is getting a real sense of how locals live — what they eat, how they spend their days, and the traditions that shape their culture. This tour delivered exactly that. From the very first evening, we were welcomed with local food, folk music, and dancing. It was the perfect introduction to Malta’s lively and colourful traditions.

Exploring Valletta: A City Full of Stories

Our adventure began in Valletta, Malta’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wandering its narrow streets felt like stepping back in time. One of the highlights was visiting the Barrakka Gardens, with their stunning views over the Grand Harbour. We also witnessed the traditional Saluting Battery ceremony, where a cannon is fired at noon every day — a real nod to Malta’s military past. Later, we hopped on a gondola boat for a trip around the harbour, which gave us a whole new perspective of the city from the water.

Blue Grotto

Another unforgettable moment was a boat trip to the Blue Grotto. Gliding across the clear, turquoise waters and seeing the sunlight bounce off the sea caves in dazzling shades of blue was breathtaking. It’s a must-do if you’re visiting Malta — a magical, picture-perfect experience you’ll remember long after your trip.

Marsaxlokk

We also made a stop at the charming fishing village of Marsaxlokk, famous for its colourful traditional boats and lively waterfront market — the perfect spot for a relaxed stroll by the sea.

The Three Cities and Mosta: History Around Every Corner

Next, we visited the Three Cities — Senglea, Cospicua, and Vittoriosa. These charming towns are packed with history and were once the heart of Malta’s naval and military operations. In Mosta, we stopped by the impressive Church of Santa Maria, famous for its huge dome, one of the largest in Europe.

A Peaceful Escape to Gozo

One of my favourite parts of the trip was an optional excursion to Gozo, Malta’s smaller, quieter sister island. It was such a peaceful change of pace. We explored its rugged countryside, visited the historic Citadel in Victoria, and soaked up the island’s laid-back atmosphere.

Mdina and Rabat: Stepping Back in Time

Our journey also took us to the ancient walled city of Mdina, often called the "Silent City". Its medieval streets and peaceful vibe made it feel like time stood still. Nearby Rabat gave us a glimpse into Malta’s early Christian history with its well-preserved catacombs — a fascinating experience.

Top Tips for Visiting Malta

1. Take the optional Gozo trip if you can — it’s a lovely change of pace and offers some stunning views.

2 . Wear comfy shoes. The streets in Valletta, Mdina, and the Three Cities are often cobbled and hilly.

3. Don’t miss the Saluting Battery in Valletta — it’s a unique experience and the views over the harbour are incredible.

4 .Try the local food. Dishes like pastizzi (flaky pastries a bit like a pea pasty, believe me, you won‘t regret it!) and Maltese cheeslets are a must.

5. Chat with the locals. Maltese people are friendly, proud of their heritage, and always up for a conversation.

Solo and group touring is a fantastic way to travel if you enjoy meeting new people while having the freedom to explore. It’s perfect for those who might be travelling alone but still want the ease and security of an organised itinerary. With a mix of guided activities and free time, you get the best of both worlds — shared experiences with like-minded travellers and moments to soak up the destination at your own pace.