Summer in Malta: Journey to the Heart of the Mediterranean

Between Sicily and the coasts of North Africa lies a country that absolutely must be on every traveler's bucket list. A place where sea, history and culture intertwine and give life to landscapes that seem to recall sets from historical films about ancient Rome or Star Wars. We are talking about Malta . One of the most fascinating places in the Mediterranean where you can live unique experiences: from the discovery of archaeological sites and outdoor activities, to days on unique beaches, unforgettable sunsets and crystal clear sea.

Yes, Malta could be defined as a true oasis in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea. Many ask themselves: but what is the right period to visit the island? The answer: "always". A destination that attracts millions of travellers every year, especially in the summer months. So, for those who are deciding what to do on their next holiday, here is what to do and what to see in the summer in Malta , a list of useful tips to best plan this beautiful trip.

Valletta: History, Culture and Breathtaking Views

Rightfully included among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1980, the capital of Malta , Valletta, is still one of the most fascinating cities in Europe. A historic city, founded way back in 1566 by the legendary Knights of St. John : a fortress city where lovers of Baroque architecture can take unique photos.

Especially during the summer, the city hosts numerous festivals, exhibitions and outdoor events. For those who decide to visit the capital, you can't miss places like the Co-Cathedral of St. John , which houses some paintings by the famous artist Caravaggio, or, for lovers of ancient history, the National Museum of Archaeology, which houses artifacts dating back to the Neolithic.

On the upper part of the city, however, are the Upper Barrakka Gardens , an ideal place for those who want to observe the capital from a decidedly different and fascinating point of view, especially at sunset, when the red sun colours the Maltese fortress.

In the evening, we recommend visiting the city centre, especially Strait Street , which is part of the ancient knights' quarter, which has now been reborn and has acquired further appeal, becoming one of the liveliest spots of Maltese nightlife, especially thanks to the presence of elegant clubs and bistros.

Mdina and Rabat: Time Travel in the Silent City

As already mentioned, Malta is a place for everyone: for those who love nature, for those who love the sea and for those who love history. Here there are cities that take travellers back in time. Among the various villages and the beautiful beaches there are two unmissable cities. Mdina , also known as the “Silent City” of Malta: a medieval fortified village with a cinematic charm, with narrow streets, honey-colored stone buildings and surreal silences, which make it perfect for a visit at sunset. Here the ideal would be to enjoy a tasty and refreshing almond granita, especially in summer, in one of its many elegant cafes with panoramic views.

Then there is Rabat , the adjacent town, which is home to the Catacombs of St. Paul, a fascinating underground network for history and archaeology enthusiasts, which were built between the third and fourth centuries BC.

Gozo: unspoiled nature and dream beaches

Anyone visiting Malta cannot miss Gozo . A place with a rural and green soul in the Maltese archipelago. This island can be reached with just 20 minutes by ferry from the main island of Malta, and is perfect for a day trip or even for a few quiet nights, away from the large influx of tourists that usually, especially in summer, visit Malta.

What is not to be missed in Gozo is nature, a unique spectacle: Ramla Bay , which with its red sand, unique in the Mediterranean Sea, manages to offer travellers wonderful views, what remains of the Azure Window , in Dwejra Bay, which until recently was one of the most popular places in Malta, and is now the perfect spot for diving, or the ancient Temple of Ġgantija , a construction that dates back to the period before the Egyptian pyramids.

Furthermore, Malta is the ideal place for diving enthusiasts. In fact, there are over 120 places where you can go diving, including the Blue Hole in Gozo, which almost looks like a tube dug into the seabed over the years by currents and which has an average depth of about 15 meters. It is probably the best place in Malta where you can practice for lovers of diving, but also snorkeling.

Of course, once you have dedicated the day to discovering these unusual places, all that remains is to relax at sunset on Xlendi beach and in one of its bars adjacent to the beach, where you can enjoy an aperitif while the waters of Malta are tinged with gold.

Comino and the Blue Lagoon: A Paradise for Sea Lovers

What to see in summer in Malta? There are still many places to discover in this Mediterranean country. For example, we cannot fail to mention Comino : a small semi-uninhabited island, which in summer attracts hundreds of visitors. All travelers in search of the natural beauty of the Blue Lagoon , a lagoon with turquoise waters and so clear that they almost seem Caribbean.

You can get here with one of the many boats departing from the nearby ports of Sliema, Bugibba or Gozo and the best way to enjoy the lagoon is to arrive early in the morning, so as to avoid the large influx of tourists during the day, or take advantage of the presence of evening cruises, which also offer dinner on board, and which are available from June to September.

Here, for those seeking tranquility, it is also possible to take the Comino Coastal Walk, a short walk that offers breathtaking views of the lagoon and allows, even in high season, to fully enjoy the fantastic nature of the place.

St. Peter's Pool, Sliema and St. Julian's: between sea, shopping and nightlife

One of the places probably most loved by young people who decide to visit Malta in the summer is definitely St Peter's Pool . A natural pool easily reachable from the picturesque village of Marsaxlokk, along slightly bumpy roads, at the end of which you can enjoy an unparalleled panorama: a breathtaking view of the blue and green waters of Malta, which make this place very popular, even with locals, and from whose surface you can dive into the Mediterranean. A fantastic place for snorkeling or simply relaxing with a pleasant swim.

For those who are looking for more lively areas, dedicated to entertainment, then Sliema is the right starting point. Here you can find several shopping centers, boutiques, clubs with terraces overlooking the sea and access to the sea, which make it the ideal destination for those who want to spend an urban summer holiday, but a stone's throw from the sea.

Finally, where to spend the evening? Fun is guaranteed in St. Julian’s , a Maltese town that is the heart of the island’s nightlife. Especially in the Paceville district, where there are the largest number of clubs, discos and casinos, which attract young people, and not only, from all over Europe. Especially in summer, this area is full of events: rooftop parties, DJ sets on the beach, boat parties and music festivals.

In short: deciding to spend the summer in Malta can never be a bad idea! Do you agree? It's time to pack your bags: let's travel!