It's Malta time
My second time in Malta, and this time I had a whole week to explore - plus a wonderful excuse: my friend's wedding! Having already seen the highlights during my 2020 visit, I could now dig deeper into what makes this archipelago so special.
Malta is a fascinating mix of influences - Phoenician, Roman, Arab, Norman, Knights of St. John, British, and finally independent since 1964. With just 500,000 people crammed into 316 square kilometers, it's one of the most densely populated countries in the world. Yet it never feels crowded once you step away from the main tourist areas.
What I Experienced
The wedding itself was held in one of Malta's historic venues, and I have to say - this island knows how to do celebrations. The Mediterranean climate, the golden limestone architecture, the food... everything came together beautifully.
Beyond the festivities, I finally had time to explore Gozo, Malta's quieter sister island. The Cittadella fortress in Victoria is spectacular, and the beaches are noticeably less crowded than on the main island. The ferry ride over takes just 25 minutes and costs practically nothing.
Valletta continues to impress me. The capital is essentially an open-air museum - every street reveals baroque churches, grand palaces, and those iconic wooden balconies. The food scene has exploded in recent years, with excellent restaurants tucked into centuries-old buildings.
Practical Notes
- English is an official language - no communication issues
- Euro is the currency
- Rent a car if you want to explore beyond Valletta (buses exist but are slow)
- The summer heat can be intense - spring or fall visits are ideal
- Maltese cuisine mixes Italian, Arabic, and British influences - try pastizzi and rabbit stew
A week turned out to be the perfect duration. Long enough to relax, short enough to stay interesting. Malta keeps pulling me back.
Photography from Malta is available for purchase with commercial license - ideal for Mediterranean island marketing or historic destination wall art.