So you want to get off the beaten track and experience a real piece of Malta, right? The island boasts plenty of ‘hidden’ attractions and we’re here to tell you how to get to them – and to also provide our top tips to make sure you enjoy every minute of your adventure. Get settled, because it’s going to be a fun ride!
The Flea Market in Vittoriosa
Every Sunday, the waterfront at this charming city is packed with people hunting for vintage finds, curiosities and other gorgeous finds. The Vittoriosa flea market is the most popular one on the island, and with good reason! Haggling is a thing here, so when you find that special something, don’t just accept the first price!
Get ready for an early wake-up call if you want to find the best bargains, as the coolest finds tend to be gone by 10am. Follow up with a stroll around the Vittoriosa water-front, maybe stopping for coffee or lunch to finish off your morning in style. Do book ahead to ensure that you get a table with a stunning view of the marina!
Catch the sunset off Dingli Cliffs
We suggest that you pack a picnic for this one; we will be super happy to set you up! Make sure you get there early enough to find a beautiful, quiet spot, which shouldn’t be too difficult. The area around the tiny chapel is particularly picturesque, and there are benches so that you can experience your sunset views in comfort while enjoying a nibble and a glass of wine.
Experience the spectacular Hondoq Bay in Gozo
There are many reasons our sister island is so popular, and its pristine beaches certainly contribute. Now, you can either follow all the other tourists to the popular spots like Xlendi or Marsalforn or… you can make your way to Hondoq ir-Rummien. A bit of a track to get there, but totally worth it as the waters are so clear you will feel like you’re floating.
Get a taste of a traditional town in Zejtun
One of the oldest towns in Malta, Zejtun is bustling with good cheer, old-world shops and quirky architecture. Also known as Citta Beland, as conferred by the Grandmaster who founded it, this town comes with a rich history that dates back to medieval times, and there are a number of heritage sites to discover.
Get lost meandering around The Three Cities
Why not follow up your flea market experience with a gentle stroll around The Three Cities. Every single corner comes with a historical tale and impressive architecture. Bonus points because the narrow, winding streets are naturally shaded from the summer sun!
With these five points, you have everything you need to transform you from a run-of-the-mill tourist to a real traveller! But we also believe in being prepared, so we do have some tips to help you along the way.
- Get yourself a pair of good walking shoes – many landmarks in Malta are within walking distance of each other!
- Keep your beach clothes with you – you never know when you’ll find a quiet stretch of beach that calls for an impromptu swim!
- Always travel with sunblock and water – you will thank us later
- Don’t miss out on eating rabbit stew in Mgarr like a local, and book ahead!
