Introducing Malta
From its North African and Arabic influences (listen carefully to the local language) to the Sicilian-inspired cuisine, Malta is a microcosm of the Mediterranean. Few European countries have such concentrated history, architecture and, yes, beaches in so tiny an area.
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There’s been an eclectic mix of influences and a roll-call of rulers over the centuries, but be in no doubt: Malta is not just a notional outpost of Italy or a relic of colonial Britain. This island nation (all 316 sq km of it, comprising the islands of Malta, Gozo and Comino) has a quirky character all of its own. From prehistoric temples, to the baroque architecture of Valletta, feasts of rabbit to festas of noisy fireworks, rattling buses to colourful fishing boats, this nation has loads of unique charm.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
Tips & articles
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Greatest historical journeys: part three
18 October 2011
In the third and final instalment taken from Lonely Planet’s 1000 Ultimate Experiences, we look at three more great historical...
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Tiny countries that pack a big punch
10 March 2011
Size isn’t everything. Here are ten of the smallest countries in the world. Some of them are rarely visited, except...
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Steal away: hidden coastlines of the Mediterranean
24 February 2011
If lying elbow-to-elbow with sunbathing strangers on a French Riviera beach doesn’t fit your criteria for a relaxing seaside getaway,...
Thorn Tree forum discussion
Recent posts
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Re: Malta in February
by knowkats 14 September 2011
Weather wise February is probably the worst time of year to visit Malta, but you may be lucky. KNOWKATS.
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RE: Does anyone know any hotel that provide free Harbour cruise in Malta
by Anna001 12 September 2011
I agree, the tours are not that expensive so choosing a less expensive hotel and paying for the tour yourself is worth it. I found a price…
Hotels & Hostels
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Malta
Things to do
- All things to do (92)
- Activities (10)
- Entertainment (10)
- Restaurants (22)
- Shopping (16)
- Sights (34)
- Tours (0)
Make it happen
Our Top Picks For Malta
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1 Valletta
It’s a joy to explore the pint-sized capital, chock-full of historical and architectural gems
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2 Sliema, St Julian’s & Paceville
The place in Malta to promenade, eat, drink, shop and play
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3 Vittoriosa
An intriguing mix of old and new, with quirky wine bars and atmospheric alleys to discover
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4 Hypogeum
This mysterious underground necropolis still has the experts scratching their heads in wonder
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5 Marsaxlokk
Work up an appetite for fresh local seafood while admiring picture-perfect boats in the harbour
Fast Facts about Malta
- Visas
Not needed for most visitors for stays of up to three months.
- Area
316 sq km (double the size of Liechtenstein)
- Capital
- Head of State
President Dr Edward Fenech Adami
- Languages
Malti, English
- Time
GMT/UTC + 1
- ATMs
Widespread
- Country code
356, international access code 00
- Famous for
Knights of St John, WWII heroism
- Population
400, 000
- Phrases
merħba (hello), saħħa (goodbye), grazzi (thanks)
Our favourite Malta Blogs (beta)
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Picture Perfect: Pretty Churches in Europe
Blog: The Art of Slow Travel - 1 February 2012
This post is part of a new series entitled ‘Picture Perfect’, published because of my wish to showcase some beautiful travel shots from around the world which didn’t quite make it into regular blog posts or which tell a story on their own and need few words, if any, to describe them. I grew up [...]
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Picture Perfect: Images of Gozo, Maltese Islands
Blog: The Art of Slow Travel - 25 January 2012
This post is part of a new series entitled ‘Picture Perfect’, published because of my wish to showcase some beautiful travel shots from around the world which didn’t quite make it into regular blog posts or which tell a story on their own and need few words, if any, to describe them. Having visited Gozo [...]
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Picture Perfect: Glimpses of the Maltese Coastline
Blog: The Art of Slow Travel - 18 January 2012
This post is part of a new series entitled ‘Picture Perfect’, published because of my wish to showcase some beautiful travel shots from around the world which didn’t quite make it into regular blog posts or which tell a story on their own and need few words, if any, to describe them. Wild in winter, [...]
