With an almost mythical atmosphere to it and a remarkable geographical position, the island of Malta is one of the most popular tourist destinations.
It is actually an archipelago – consisting of more than one island – in the middle of the Mediterranean, famous for much more than weather. With temperatures never going below zero, Malta is boasting arguably the best climate in the world but there’s much more to it than sun and high temperatures.
In this article we explore the top five things Malta is best known for in hope this list would be a definite reason to put this magical place on top of your travelling bucket list.
Sun, Sea & Beaches
It’s hard to start this list any other way than by stating the obvious. Malta is best known for a stunning coastline which brings the best of what sun, sea and beaches can give you. Appealing to different tastes and preferences when it comes to beaches, Malta’s vibrant coastline offers impressive rocky edges but also more approachable hidden gems such as the Blue lagoon beach on the island of Comino.
It’s a tourist paradise and a definite must-see place in Malta. The panoramic area comes with plenty of challenges and it not the most approachable place there is but the government of Malta has set the plans in motion to reconstruct the venue outside the swimming area.
In addition to this landmark beach, Malta is well known for countless reefs, caves and ancient wrecks which make this place a proper diving paradise.
Architecture
Malta’s unique geographical position and the overall size of the island made it a desired destination for many of historic rulers and conquerors. For thousands of years civilizations have flourished on Malta, leaving their own personal stamp on architecture and culture as a whole.
Malta’s ancient wonders are plenty and if you were to visit this beautiful place the old capital of Mdina is definitely a place to go to. Situated on a scenic hill in the centre of the island, Mdina is the ancient fort city packed with many museums and a range of activities.
If you’d like to remain closer to the coastline, a trip to Valetta – the current capital of Malta – is definitely worthwhile. Hop to the Upper Barrakka Gardens to get one of the best panoramic views of the Grand Harbour or simply stroll through the city to get a feel of the proper Maltese atmosphere. If you’re into ancient architecture, you can’t go wrong whatever you decide.
Malta’s unique architecture has made it a favourite filming venue. Most famously, Malta’s classical charm was presented through the popular TV show Game of Thrones. Filmed in and around the scenic Valletta, Game of Thrones remains one of the last cinematographic pieces to have used Malta’s unfortunately collapsed Azure Window which stood for the scenic backdrop of Daenerys Targaryen and Kahl Drogo’s wedding.
iGaming
Mixing the ancient with modern is what makes Malta so special. Tourism leads the way as the country’s most pronounced branch of industry whereas the online services have thrown a serious challenge for the place at the summit.
Malta has been making plenty of waves in the iGaming business, establishing itself as one of world’s most popular gambling hubs in the world. Not only are many of the European operators today licensed and located in Malta, but also affiliates that promote online casinos are based there. Having recognized the potential of technological progress, the small country with a population no higher than 400,000 makes an attractive prospect in this field of industry.
Cuisine
Maltese vibrant cuisine is the product of its rich history. It’s a colourful display of food junction between the Islanders and the many civilisations that occupied the country over the centuries. The explosion of tastes and flavours will hit you at the first restaurant you walk into but if you’re more of an enthusiastic gastronome you won’t want to miss a trip to the Marsaxlokk fish market.
Sunday mornings is when this place bursts into life with fish and marine catch in abundance. Maltese waters are rich but their traditional specialty is the rabbit – especially slowly cooked with onions and wine. Lampuki Pie – a fish pie – is not to missed as well whereas the country’s favourite delicacy Kannoli might be the perfect way to top it all up.
Nightlife
Peaceful and tranquil by day, Malta goes through a vivacious transformation in the evening. Paceville in St. Julian’s is considered to be the main hub of Maltese nightlife and rightly so. This place is literally dotted and stuffed packed with discos, lounge bars, clubs, restaurants and night clubs sitting on top of each other.
Resting high above any other place in Malta is Twenty Two, a nightclub situated on the twenty-second floor of the Portomaso Tower. Classy and smart, it definitely is a place to visit. Telegraph has highlighted a long list of other Malta nightlife venues and this list is definitely worth checking.
By Shobhit ChoudharyShobit is a dedicated globe-trotter on a lifelong quest for adventure. He thrives on exploring diverse cultures, savoring new cuisines, and forging lasting connections. Shobit's life is a testament to his unquenchable wanderlust, as he continuously seeks out uncharted territories and unforgettable experiences.
