![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.broadwaytravel.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Inside-St-Johns-Co-Cathedral-and-its-artwork-filled-domes-in-Valletta-Malta-.jpg\")
<\/p>\nMade up of seven islands, Malta contains some of the world\u2019s oldest man-made structures. Although one of the smallest countries across the globe, there\u2019s no shortage of Baroque landmarks and 15th century relics. In fact, the capital city of Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its iconic architectural masterpieces known as the Grandmaster\u2019s Palace and St John\u2019s Co-Cathedral.<\/p>\n
It may be the perfect base for history enthusiasts, but its natural beauty draws crowds of holidaymakers in from miles. Revel in this hotspots scenic gardens, dive the depths of its turquoise-tinted waters at the Blue Lagoon or admire the limestone caves of the island\u2019s famous grotto.<\/p>\n
Explore it all with a camera in hand, and to make sure you don\u2019t miss a thing – here\u2019s the top must-see attractions in Malta.<\/p>\n
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Location: <\/b>Surrounded by two natural harbours and situated along the island\u2019s north coast, <\/span>Valletta is the capital city<\/span><\/a> of Malta. <\/span><\/p>\n Why visit: <\/b>As 2018\u2019s European Capital of Culture, this city is an attraction in itself. Built by the Knights of St John by hand, it surprisingly only took 15 years to construct its world-famous bastions, medieval walls and enchanting cathedrals. Valletta\u2019s narrow cobbles are music-filled and decorated with awe-inspiring artwork from big-name craftsmen such as C<\/span>aravaggio<\/span>. While, its main streets are gateways to notorious landmarks including Barrakka Gardens and Fort St Elmo. <\/span><\/p>\n Described as one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world, with its old-world Parliament Building, dominating City Gate and Europe\u2019s oldest theatre \u00a0– Valletta never ceases to amaze.<\/span><\/p>\n Best for: <\/b>Culture vultures<\/span><\/p>\n Did you know? <\/b>Valletta is the third capital city of Malta, before that it was Mdina and Vittoriosa.<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n Hotels nearby: <\/b><\/p>\n Location: <\/b>Situated on the island of Comino – Malta\u2019s smallest inhabited island and nestled along the west coast, the Blue Lagoon is only 25 minutes from the mainland by ferry. <\/span><\/p>\n Why visit: <\/b>This small bay is a slice of paradise, boasting unique azure waters and jaw-dropping views of the surrounding Maltese islands – it\u2019s a natural phenomenon. At depths exceeding 10 metres, it\u2019s considered a top diving and snorkelling spot for its rare rock formations and alluring seabed. Holidaymakers flock to swim along its Caribbean-like coastline and capture photos of the surrounding rugged cliffs. <\/span><\/p>\n This sun-drenched stretch is the ideal base for soaking up rays, but be quick, this popular attraction lures a huge crowd. Escape the hustle and bustle and wander among the island\u2019s lava fields, before stumbling across the 17th century Santa Marija Tower. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Best for: <\/b>Sun worshippers<\/span><\/p>\n Did you know: <\/b>The Blue Lagoon was the movie location for the 2004 drama Troy.<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n Location: <\/b>Based in the north but boasting a central location, Mdina surrounds itself among architectural wonders.<\/span><\/p>\n Why visit? <\/b>Serving as the island\u2019s capital during the medieval period, this fortified resort is also referred to as the \u2018Silent City\u2019 for it timeless atmosphere. Step back 4,000 years and walk the walls of this ancient city for ever-expanding vistas. Now, the home to Malta\u2019s elite get lost among grand palaces fit for royalty and soak up Roman remains along the way.<\/span><\/p>\n Highlights include the 17th century St Paul\u2019s Cathedral and its beautifully decorated domes by Mattia Preti. Then check out St Paul\u2019s Catacombs, a Roman burial complex and museum brimming with historical artifacts. There\u2019s also an impressive National Museum of Natural History and a well-preserved art collection in Browse Palazzo Falson. <\/span><\/p>\n Best for: <\/b>History buffs<\/span><\/p>\n Top tip: <\/b>A family-friendly way to discover Mdina\u2019s epic history is by touring the dungeons.<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n Hotels nearby: <\/b><\/p>\n Location: <\/b>Overlooking Malta\u2019s sapphire coastline and the island of Filfla, find both these historical sites in the south next to the village of Qrendi.<\/span><\/p>\n Why visit? <\/b>Cover two landmarks in one! Just 500 metres from the Hagar Qim Temples, find Mnajdra. The fascinating fact is, no architect in the world can explain how these limestone buildings were constructed without the use of metal tools – mysterious. Nevertheless, you\u2019ll discover three shrines dating back to the Tarxien phase from the 25th century BC. <\/span><\/p>\n Standing on the hilltop awaits Hagar Qim which is comprised of four structures. Here the temples still houses remains of wall carvings, alters and pit-marked slabs. The most fascinating feature is the Solstice and Equinox doorway which marks the rising sun on the first day of spring and autumn. <\/span><\/p>\n Best for: <\/b>History Buffs<\/span><\/p>\n Opening hours: <\/b>Monday to Sunday from 9am – 5pm.<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n Top tip: <\/b>Guided tours are highly recommended to fully embrace your mythological surroundings. These start at 11am or 2pm.<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n Location: <\/b>Split into two, the Lower and Upper Barrakka Gardens, \u00a0find both of these floral landmarks in Valletta. <\/span><\/p>\n Why visit? <\/b>Not only celebrated for its flower-filled terrace full of exotic fauna, but the Upper Barrakka Garden enjoys some of the best views in Malta. Perched on top of the Grand Harbour, relish in unobstructed panoramic sights of Birgu, Senglea, Cospicua and the Mediterranean. Walk among statues, plaques and unusual structures explaining Maltese heritage – \u00a0after all, this famous attraction was destroyed in the war, so there\u2019s plenty of history to uncover.<\/span><\/p>\n Just a 15-minute stroll away find its sister garden, which is perfectly positioned parallel to the mouth of Malta\u2019s port \u00a0and ideal for watching passing cruise ships. <\/span><\/p>\n Best for: <\/b>Nature enthusiasts<\/span><\/p>\n Opening hours: <\/b>Monday to Sunday from 7am – 10pm<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n Hotels nearby: <\/b><\/p>\n Location: <\/b>Only 30 minutes from Mellieha, and just 15 minutes from <\/span>the resort of St Julians<\/span><\/a>, this pre-historic attraction is within easy reach. <\/span><\/p>\n Why visit? <\/b>Discovered in 1902 during construction work, the Hypogeum is a series of interconnecting rock-cut chambers. The upper level is said to be a burial site, which was originally open-air and dates back to 4,000 BC. The middle tomb contains rare red ochre wall paintings and is decorated with unique carvings commonly shown in Megalithic Temples. <\/span><\/p>\n When you\u2019re not trying to uncover the meaning of the wall markings, head down the rocky steps to the lower chamber known as \u2018Holy of Holies\u2019. These sites are testimony to a cultural tradition that has disappeared. <\/span><\/p>\n Best for: <\/b>Culture vultures<\/span><\/p>\n Opening hours: <\/b>Monday to Sunday from 8am – 4pm<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n Top tip: <\/b>Due to its ever-growing popularity, only 10 visitors an hour are allowed to enter the Hypogeum. We\u2019d suggest heading here as early as possible to ensure you bag yourself admission.<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n Hotels nearby: <\/b><\/p>\n Location: <\/b>Every 45 minutes a ferry from Cirkewwa in the mainland leaves for Gozo. It takes roughly 30 minutes to get there. <\/span><\/p>\n Why visit? <\/b>As one of the Mediterranean\u2019s top diving spots, the real question is – why wouldn\u2019t you visit? Renowned for its yearly carnivals, street processions and operas – expect event after event in Gozo. Home to the famed Azure Window, Ggantija Temples and the most important archaeological site in Malta, Marsalforn – there\u2019s no end to the must-see attractions. <\/span><\/p>\n Its pristine beaches and rocky terrain allow you to step away from the medieval relics. Bask in the sun at Ramla Bay, before wine tasting in the rolling vineyards. Adrenaline junkies can take on abseiling and rock climbing, while laid-back types walk the cliff tops. <\/span><\/p>\n Best for: <\/b>Families<\/span><\/p>\n Round trip ticket prices: <\/b><\/p>\n *Prices are subject to change.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n Location: <\/b>Hidden away on the southeast coast of Malta, find the magnificent Blue Grotto and its idyllic waters. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Why visit? <\/b>Attracting 100,000 visitors per year, it\u2019s safe to say this alluring spot is one for the bucket-list. Recognised for its 30-metre-tall arch and seven mysterious caves, this spot invites you to swim, snorkel or dive its celebrated ripples. The Honeymoon Cave, Cats Cave and Reflection Cave are the most popular for underwater adventures with its interesting rock formations and clear visibility making it a diver\u2019s oasis. <\/span><\/p>\n On the sunniest days, the magic happens. Watch as the rays reflect off the white seabed and cave walls to create purple, green and orange infused waters. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Best for: <\/b>Snorkelers or divers<\/span><\/p>\n Top tip: <\/b>For the best chance of witnessing the colourful grotto, take the first boat trip at 9am when the waters are calm and it\u2019s at its quietest.<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n Location: <\/b>This traditional Maltese village is situated in the southwest of Malta, just 20 minutes from <\/span>the resort of Sliema<\/span><\/a>. <\/span><\/p>\n Why visit? <\/b>With a backdrop of the Dingli Cliffs, this sleepy city is often overlooked. What most don\u2019t realise is that Siggiewi is a playground of Baroque buildings and habitats several top attractions. Limestone Heritage Park is among those, with its folklore dance performances, live music and sweet- smelling aromas from the many food stalls. Overlooking the Verdant Valley, Inquisitor\u2019s Summer Palace awaits your exploration, alongside the Parish Church of St Leonard – another must-visit landmark. <\/span><\/p>\n At the end of June watch fireworks illuminate the town and brass band parades fill the street at Siggiewi Festa – the biggest celebration of the year! \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Best for: <\/b>History buffs<\/span><\/p>\n Did you know? <\/b>Limestone Heritage Park is a wedding hotspot, so if you\u2019re looking for something special for your big day – Siggiewi is the place to be!<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n Hotels nearby: <\/b><\/p>\n Location: <\/b>Nestled between Valletta and <\/span>Mellieha<\/span><\/a>, St Paul\u2019s Bay is an all-singing, all-dancing town. <\/span><\/p>\n Why visit? <\/b>Enchanting guests with its Skorba Temples, vintage car collections and larger-than-life aquarium – the list of activities are endless. On one side you\u2019ve got beautifully restored Neoclassical churches, including the domed Mosta Rotunda and its WWII bomb replica. On the other, there\u2019s Salina Nature Reserve and its unique species. <\/span><\/p>\n St Paul\u2019s Bay<\/span><\/a> boasts a waterfront location, where a helping of top-quality restaurants and boutique shops decorate its promenade. Not forgetting a waterpark brimming with splash zones, multi-racer slides and plunging wet rides. <\/span><\/p>\n Best for: <\/b>Families<\/span><\/p>\n Hotels nearby: <\/b><\/p>\n In Malta you can cross the island in under an hour, so no matter where you\u2019re staying, you\u2019re in a prime location for exploring its must-see attractions. Now you know which spots to cover – let the adventure begin! <\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Made up of seven islands, Malta contains some of the world\u2019s oldest man-made structures. Although one of the smallest countries…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":7,"featured_media":1525,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[14],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n![\"Malta](\"https:\/\/www.broadwaytravel.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Malta-Holiday-Deals-1.jpg\")
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2. Blue Lagoon<\/h2>\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.broadwaytravel.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/The-shimmering-waters-of-the-Blue-Lagoon-in-Malta-and-floating-Yachts.jpg\")
<\/p>\n3. Mdina<\/h2>\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.broadwaytravel.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/The-enchanting-St-Pauls-Cathedral-in-Mdina-Malta-on-a-sunny-day.jpg\")
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4. Mnajdra and Hagar Qim Megalithic Sites<\/h2>\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.broadwaytravel.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/The-remains-of-Mnajdra-and-Hagar-Quim-archeological-sites-in-Malta.jpg\")
<\/p>\n5. Barrakka Gardens<\/h2>\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.broadwaytravel.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/The-Barrakka-Gardens-and-surrounding-temples-in-Valletta-Malta.jpg\")
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6. Hypogeum<\/h2>\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.broadwaytravel.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/The-inside-of-Hypogeum-Temples-and-Caves-in-Malta.jpg\")
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7. Gozo<\/h2>\n
![\"Gozo](\"https:\/\/www.broadwaytravel.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/The-legendary-Azure-Window-rock-formation-in-Malta-with-people-snorkeling-its-waters.jpg\")
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8. Blue Grotto<\/h2>\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.broadwaytravel.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/The-Blue-Grotto-rock-formation-and-snorkelling-point-in-Malta.jpg\")
<\/p>\n9. Siggiewi<\/h2>\n
![\"Siggiewi's](\"https:\/\/www.broadwaytravel.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Siggiewis-Catherdral-dominating-the-town-in-Malta.jpg\")
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10. St Paul\u2019s Bay<\/h2>\n
![\"St](\"https:\/\/www.broadwaytravel.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/The-small-shipwreck-church-in-St-Pauls-Bay-Malta.jpg\")
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