Malta, Gozo, Comino: A year-round destination in the heart of the Mediterranean

Advertorial by Malta Tourism Authority

Pure variety. The "Pearl of the Mediterranean" offers everything your heart desires: Sunny weather, picturesque bays and landscapes, a history stretching back thousands of years, and unforgettable festive highlights. Its long history, shaped by the many cultures and civilisations that have influenced Malta over the centuries, has left a lasting mark on the archipelago, making it one of the most diverse and varied travel destinations in the world.

An abundance of festivals and a lively nightlife
The Maltese love to enjoy life and celebrate whenever the opportunity arises. When you are in Malta, do as the Maltese do: dine al fresco in a romantic candlelit palazzo or in one of the man restaurants and bars. The diverse calendar ranges from cultural festivals to trendy clubs and authentic dining experiences.

A rich culinary heritage
Malta’s cuisine is as diverse as its history. Years of influence from foreign cultures have left their mark, transforming the Maltese archipelago into a culinary destination offering a rich variety of flavours. In Malta, British, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern cuisines blend to create a unique culinary experience.

You should try the traditional Maltese snack "pastizzi", the Maltese pizza with potato slices known as "ftira", the national fish "lampuki", and one of the traditional rabbit dishes – these specialities pair perfectly with a Cisk, the local beer, or a glass of Maltese wine. The national drink, Kinnie, is non-alcoholic and very refreshing.

Malta has also established itself as an outstanding destination for fine dining: in 2024, the renowned Michelin Guide awarded two stars to a Maltese restaurant for the first time. Head chef Simon Rogan’s ION Harbour in Valletta now stands among the seven restaurants awarded Michelin stars.

Picturesque landscapes
Malta offers a wide variety of natural attractions. Let yourself be enchanted by hidden valleys with lush vegetation, rolling hills, spectacular coastlines, and landscapes. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the cultural capital, Valletta, the romantic charm of the ‘Three Cities’ – Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua – and Mdina, the silent city, which offers a romantic ambience with its historic buildings and wonderful views. Immerse yourself in Malta’s rich past while exploring its traditional Mediterranean villages.

Home to numerous Hollywood blockbusters
The Maltese archipelago is one of the most sought-after film and television locations in the Mediterranean. It is therefore no surprise that it has already been dubbed "Mini-Hollywood" by The Times of London. Internationally renowned productions such as "Jurassic World", "Gladiator 1 & 2", "The Count of Monte Cristo", "Troy", "Game of Thrones" as well as the cult classic "Popeye" were filmed here.

Scenic bays & azure lagoons
Look forward to idyllic little coves and azure-blue lagoons that invite you to unwind and relax. Malta’s most popular beaches are Mellieħa Bay, Għajn Tuffieħa and Golden Bay. On Gozo and Comino, alongside the well-known Ramla Bay and the Blue Lagoon, there are also many secluded rocky coves whose clear waters are ideal for snorkelling.

Gozo – a small island, a world of happiness
Gozo, Malta’s smaller sister island, is the green oasis of the Maltese trio of islands. Even as you cross over on the ferry, you can let your mind wander and feel everything slowing down.

The journey from Valletta takes 45 minutes on the high-speed passenger ferry, and just 20 minutes on the car ferry from Cirkewwa in the north of Malta. Covering just sixty-four square kilometres, the island can easily be explored in a single day. Those who stay longer can experience the laid-back island lifestyle first-hand and immerse themselves in the charm of Gozo.
 

  • Out and about
    Easy walking trails offer spectacular views of the sparkling sea or wind their way through fields lined with wild caper bushes and prickly pears. We recommend a hike to the small Wied il-Għasri canyon. The path through the valley offers a magnificent view of the impressive rocky landscape, into which the sea has carved a gorge-like channel, and the turquoise-blue water invites you to take a dip in calm waters. Those who prefer a greater challenge can swap their walking boots for a mountain bike and set off on an active exploration. It gets even more adventurous when climbing the rugged rocks.

  • Crystal-clear blue water
    You can explore the island from the sea by boat or kayak and marvel at the incredible shades of blue in the water. Divers love Gozo. Excellent visibility and the island’s famous "underwater museum" attract divers and water sports enthusiasts from around the world. The island’s small size means that journeys to all the dive sites – including those in Malta – are short.

  • Charming Victoria
    Gozo’s capital, Victoria, is the hub of this small island. The historic centrepiece of the town is the imposing citadel, which towers high above the town and offers spectacular views across the island.
     

The archipelago thus offers a wide variety of activities and moments of pure enjoyment that are well worth discovering. Experience it for yourself on your next holiday.
 

www.visitmalta.com
www.visitgozo.com