Luxury Escapes Guide to Malta
Dizzying limestone cliffs hiding red-sand beaches, surprising ancient sites and timeless islands with decadent history – Malta is the perfect Mediterranean cocktail.
Below and above the water, Malta’s tiny archipelago hides a wealth of natural beauty and architectural wonder. From wandering the capital of Valletta, built by the Knights of St John, with its fortress-like Mdina to discovering the Three Cities in an electric buggy and tracing the spellbinding clifftop trails of southern Gozo, there’s something for every type of traveller on this Mediterranean marvel.
Discover vibrant underwater worlds framed by golden, red-sand beaches, sample Michelin-starred service at its finest restaurants, surrounded by yachts in the boat-studded harbour or explore thousands of years of history with ancient sites hidden around almost every corner.
And it couldn’t be easier to travel around – hop on a tour, do as the locals do on a bus or hire a car to capture every corner of the petite island. With direct flights from Dubai, as well as popular European cities such as London, Rome, Paris and Munich, now’s the time to make your way to Malta.
Please note that due to current restrictions some operators may be temporarily closed. Check their websites for the most up-to-date information
Featured escapes
Things to see and do
Experience centuries of history at St John’s Co-Cathedral, Valletta
Centuries of history line the walls of St John’s Co-Cathedral, found in Malta’s vibrant Valletta. Built by the Order of the Knights of St John in 1577, the magnificent building was intended to be seen from almost anywhere on the island, with two large bell towers and an elaborate Baroque interior (added in the 17th century). However, the architecture isn’t the only jewel in St John’s crown – it’s home to some of the world’s most valued art, including pieces by esteemed Italian artist Caravaggio. Wondering why it’s called a Co-Cathedral? It shares its seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Malta with the even-older Cathedral of St Paul in Mdina.
Wander through the ancient walled Ċittadella of Victoria, Gozo
Occupied by man since the prehistoric era, the ancient walled city of Ċittadella offers a unique insight into Malta’s centuries of architectural and military history. Admire holy shrines and Norman-style windows and arches as you wander down its cobblestoned streets, before visiting the Baroque Cathedral of Gozo, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. A state-of-the-art Visitors Centre and a number of fascinating museums ensure you’ll walk away with a new appreciation for subjects such as Maltese archaeology, folklore and nature.
Visit Ġgantija Temples, the oldest freestanding buildings in the world in Xagħra, Gozo
As the oldest freestanding buildings in the world (as recognised by UNESCO), the Ġgantija Neolithic temples should be top of your Malta history bucket list. Found just outside Xagħra in Gozo, the temples are over 5,500 years old – 1,000 years older than Stonehenge or the pyramids in Egypt. Excavated in 1826, but extensively preserved, the complex offers a glimpse into prehistoric construction and worship, with archaeologists believe the complex was dedicated to a fertility deity, in part due to the layout (resembling a large woman) and the artefacts found on site, such as female figurines and statues. Ġgantija isn’t just worth a visit for the history however – it also happens to offer awe-inspiring views from its hilltop position.
Descend into the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, Paola, Gozo
Dating as far back as 4,000BC, the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed underground cemetery found just outside the village of Paola. The only one of its kind in Malta, it offers an exceptional insight into the traditions of former civilisations, with intricately carved and preserved passages, chambers and halls covering over 500m of space. Remnants of times gone by have been discovered since excavation begun in 1904, including red ochre cave paintings, decorated pottery items, stone beads and amulets and buttons made of shells, as well as human remains from over 7,000 people. Visitors to some areas are limited per day, so if it’s high on your Malta list, it’s best to book ahead.
Self-drive through Malta's Three Cities in an electric buggy, Valletta
There’s nothing quite like zooming through Malta’s charming piazzas, avenues and winding alleys at your own pace – and without the risk of getting lost. An electric, Rolling Geeks buggy ride affords the picture-perfect opportunity to explore and unearth the beauty of the historic Three Cities of Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua without any time restraints and little-to-no navigational concerns. Unearth the grandeur of years passed as you explore these fortified cities, nestled in the heart of Malta’s historic centure like a trio of villages, directly across from the Grand Harbour of Valletta, from within an electric, environmentally friendly buggy (built for two). Pre-programmed with directions in the onboard GPS, it’s nearly impossible to wander far off the path from your destination. Allowing you to glide between aromatic cafes, the picturesque harbour dotted with yachts and museums with absolute ease.
Marvel at the salt pans of Xwenji, Gozo
Trace Gozo’s stunning northern coast and quaint coastal trails along unsealed roads by mountain bike from nearby Marsalforn to encounter the Mediterranean-licked, chequerboard-hewn Xwenji salt pans. Carved into the limestone by hand, these transfixing and ancient marvels are as old and beautifully preserved as the buildings on the mainland; a tradition that dates back to Roman times and continues today. If you visit during the summer months, you’re likely to see locals scraping salt crystals from the rock face - all collected, processed and packaged by hand!
Explore the ancient walled Mdina & nearby Rabat
Framed by golden-stone walls at the summit of a hilltop just 20 minutes from Valletta, the Mdina holds within its ancient fortress 4,000 years of legacy and narrow lanes and piazzas hiding convents and restaurants behind unassuming cobalt-blue and red doors. Accessible only on foot, the city invites you to take in St Paul’s Cathedral, explore the centre of Maltese nobility with its Baroque and medieval architecture, and discover nearby Rabat with its excavated Roman villa with a plethora of catacombs.
Encounter the Red Tower from Għadira Bay, Millieha
Worthy of a Game of Thrones set piece, Gozo’s chess-like Red (St Agatha’s) Tower offers stunning panoramic vistas of the glistening ocean and Comino from the summit of its flat roof. Beginning in Għadira Bay, loop clockwise along the coastal Marfa Peninsula to encounter this acclaimed network of watchtowers established by the Knights of St John. As you negotiate this 14.5km trail over the Marfa Ridge, you’ll be also see sandy beaches and rocky coves before you reach the White Tower near the peninsula’s northeastern tip of Aħrax Point.
Top places to eat and drink
de Mondion, Mdina
The stars aren’t just in the sky in Mdina, Malta’s former capital – one can also be found at de Mondion, a Michelin-starred restaurant in the luxurious Xara Palace Hotel. Perched on the top floor of a 16th-century building in the heart of the walled city, this fine dining restaurant promises technically beautiful, Mediterranean-inspired dishes that showcase the island’s delicious produce. The wine offering is equally as considered, with a mix of local and international vintages. Settle in for five-star service that encourages you to take your time, savouring the food, company and spectacular views across Malta’s coastline. If visiting in summer, ask for a table on the terrace for the best seat in the house.
Capo Crudo, Valletta
Just a few metres from the waves of the Mediterranean, under Valletta’s protective walls, sits Capo Crudo, an award-winning restaurant dedicated to the art of gastronomy. Fresh fish, aged meats and seasonal vegetables are the canvas for the expert kitchen brigade, who deploy every skill in the culinary book to create dishes that balance texture and taste beautifully. Enjoy delicate caviar, oysters or tartare before diving into menu of modern European flavours, with dishes such as lobster tagliatelle and beef rib eye with coffee butter, pomme puree and baby asparagus. The wine list has been handpicked with the same attention to detail, constantly evolving to feature guest favourites.
Country Terrace, Għajnsielem, Gozo
A little cottage is now home to some of Gozo’s finest fare, all served with unbeatable views of Mgarr Harbour. Country Terrace offers seasonal Mediterranean menus that champion local ingredients, with specialities of fresh fish, lamb and game. Start with fresh pasta, before a main of traditional braised rabbit or local king prawns, all paired with a special bottle of wine, with a wide selection of local and international drops to choose from. Come summer nights, dine on the alfresco terrace, complete with panoramic views of the harbour, Fort Chambrey and Gozo’s three sister islands, Kemmuna, Kemmunett and Malta.
Ta’ Frenċ, Xagħra, Gozo
With 30 years history of feeding discerning Maltese diners, Ta’ Frenċ is an icon of the country’s culinary landscape. Tucked away off the main road from Victoria to Marsalforn on Gozo, this hidden gem greets you with a courtyard surrounded by an aromatic herb garden, leading up to a centuries-old farmhouse with stunning countryside views of Xaghra, Zebbug and the Marsalforn valley. Should the sun be shining, start your experience with an aperitif outdoors, before moving into the beautifully appointed restaurant for the main event. Signature dishes include the house-cured salmon, rabbit ravioli, seafood pasta flambé and Grand Marnier soufflé, reflecting Executive Chef Joseph Brincat’s passion for sourcing the very best ingredients and allowing them to shine. A vast cellar means you’ll never go thirsty, with a range of Old and New World wines to suit every palate.
Fontanella Tea Garden, Mdina
Have your cake and eat it too within the Mdina’s fortified walls at the acclaimed Fontanella Tea Garden. Here it’s all about the sweet treats, with desserts that are works of edible art - there’s even an ice cream stand pouring cups of La Creme Cafe and waffle cones filled with coppa pistachio immediately outside the entrance. Within the enclosed tea garden, white-clothed tables are filled with cherry and almond cake, crepes filled with Nutella and strawberries, slices of gateau marie on a marzipan base and wedges of date and walnut pie. It’s a match made in sugary heaven paired with Perugina thick hot chocolate or Aperol Spritz. Of course, if you’re not a sweet tooth, there are savoury ftira (traditional Maltese bread), pastries, baguettes and bagels. Delizzjuz.
Rampila, Valetta
A dining hall housed within an ancient tunnel, an expertly stocked wine bar with local Gozo and international drops, an exhibition space with history lining the walls, a vault for private dining and terrace overlooking breathtaking Valletta, is everything that makes Rampila magical. Built by the Knights of St. John as part of the defensive bastions in the 16th century, Rampila is a Michelin Guide 2021-recognised haven for good food and wine set against a breathtaking Baroque backdrop. The menu offers up tantalisingly fresh crab and lobster ravioli, braised rabbit with raisin jus and maltese goats cheese parcels with fig jam. Yes, it tastes as good as it sounds!
Lux moments
Enjoy Malta’s indigenous grapes with an estate wine tasting in the rural village of Siġġiewi
Somewhere along the drive from Rabat to Mdina sits a history-making site of another kind – Ta’Betta Wine Estate. The four-hectare estate is responsible for producing some of the country’s finest drops, telling the story of the island’s unique heritage and terroir with every sip. The signature red wines are named after three Grand Masters of The Knights of St John, each recognized for leaving their own distinct mark on Malta’s history. You can sample the Antonio Manoel, Philippe Villiers and Jean Parisot on the terrace of the Ta’ Betta tasting room, while soaking up the sensational views of Mdina to the north and Valletta to the east. But take note – as it’s a private estate, tastings are by appointment only.
Dive into Malta’s crystal blue waters and explore the shallow wrecks dotting the Maltese Islands
Malta’s seas aren’t just great for a refreshing dip – they also happen to be home to some of the region’s best diving sites, suitable for all experience levels. Rocky scenery and clear water make for ideal conditions, best seen at the Blue Hole in Gozo, where you can say hello to octopus, lobster and brightly coloured parrot fish before swimming through natural arches to find a Madonna statue (Mary, not the singer!). There are also over 80 ship and aircraft wrecks dotted around the coastline, 15 of which are regular dive spots for keen explorers. Advanced divers shouldn’t miss the Um El Faroud diving site, in Wied Iz-Zirrieq, an artificial site made from a tanker that exploded in Malta’s docks in 1995.
Indulge with afternoon tea at the Phoenicia Hotel, Valletta
Indulge in a timeless classic at the equally timeless and classic Phoenicia Hotel in Valletta. Completed in 1948, the luxury landmark has been lovingly restored over the last 70-odd years, but retained some of its original traditions – including the island’s finest iteration of Afternoon Tea. Venture to the Palm Court lounge to enjoy finger sandwiches of smoked salmon and lemon butter, or roast beef sirloin and pickle, along with freshly baked scones, served with Devonshire clotted cream and strawberry conserve. Just make sure you leave room for the likes of peach and blueberry Swiss roll, passionfruit and coconut pavlova and green tea macaroons. Choose from 14 JING loose-leaf teas to accompany your selection, or add a little extra sparkle with a glass of champagne.
Unwind and pamper yourself at the Ayurveda Spa in the Kempinski Hotel, Gozo
A Maltese holiday is always going to include its fair share of rest and relaxation, but there’s no hurt in taking it up a notch at the Ayurveda Spa in the Kempinski Hotel, Gozo. The idyllic retreat spans over 1700sqm and includes 10 spa and 4 traditional Ayurveda treatment rooms, two heated indoor pools, a Jacuzzi, hammam, relaxation areas and a steam chamber. Beat jetlag with a full-body massage, herbal compress and traditional oil drip, or experience the traditional Naranga Kizhi, a body therapy conducted with a bag of medicated lemons.