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.
Ready to go?
These tours & activities make it easy:
- Experience the perfect introduction to Malta aboard the hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour
- Take a private excursion around Valletta and Mdina
Last updated: 21-Feb-2012
Tips & articles
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Tiny countries that pack a big punch
21 March 2012
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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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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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: Must see dive sites in Europe?
by dxb1969 28 May 2012
Malta is good for wrecks. On another thread, someone has mentioned Pula in Croatia for wreck diving.
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Re: e-mail from Libyan consulate in Malta
by libyanvisa 28 May 2012
I suggest to visit www.get2libya.com/libya-visa.php they will help you to obtain Libya visa within 24 hours Edited by: libyanvisa …
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RE: Eurovision
by sara666 26 May 2012
I've got the Hump! We did a nice normal ballad, not taking the piss - and still only 1 point. I think we should go back to the daft acts…
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)
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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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Another Medina - Another Rabat
Blog: The View from Fez - 10 May 2012
For most travellers, the name “Medina” conjures up images of Fez, Marrakech or maybe Rabat. Of course there are other medinas in other countries, but it did come as a surprise to the team from The View from Fez to discover another Rabat – and one that also had a medina.
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Life and Death in the Venice Ghetto
Blog: A Traveler's Library - 2 May 2012
Destination: 16th Century Venice, Malta Book: The Midwife of Venice, NEW April 2012 by Roberta Rich There is a corner of Venice, away from the bustle and hustlers of the Rialto and San Marcos that seems too austere to be part of the self-consciously gilded and carved and painted face of the city. While the [...]This content is a post from: A Traveler's Library To comment on this post or search for related information, click on the link to A Traveler's Library. We'll leave a light on for you.
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Maltese Food Staples
Blog: Ottsworld - 28 March 2012
As you walk around Malta and Gozo, it’s very easy to simply think that the food is Italian. You will see pizzerias, and pasta restaurants everywhere you turn. However before you shovel that last bit of yummy pasta cooked perfectly al dente into your mouth and savor the sauce, or take the last bite of [...]
