Once a year, we escape somewhere for a few days—just the two of us. Since our daughter was born, this little ritual has become especially important, giving us time dedicated solely to each other.
This year, a great flight deal sparked the idea, and we ended up in Malta. Though the tiny island might seem modest at first, it quickly revealed itself as a rich destination with history, Mediterranean charm, and the sea close by—perfect for several days of discovery.
Flexible Travel Options on a Small Island: Everything You Need to Know About Getting Around
We deliberately chose not to rent a car this time—and we don’t regret it at all. I’d read in groups that parking is tricky and traffic jams common, so we bought the local “Tallinja” transport card and made full use of it. Despite forecasts, buses ran on time and frequently on weekdays, and instead of the notorious crowding, we enjoyed comfortable, easy-to-follow rides.
Our only Sunday on the island fell on a holiday, so we got a taste of Malta’s summer crowds. The crowds were definitely more noticeable, but since we planned ahead, we managed it well. We downloaded Uber and Bolt apps, so whenever waiting got long, we simply called a ride. Trips cost 8–12 euros each, and we often saved hours this way. Overall, even supplementing the card with rides was much cheaper than renting a car, which would have caused parking headaches.
We took the fast ferry from Valletta to Gozo, which was a huge convenience—no need to bus to a distant port, and the trip took just 45 minutes. On the way back, we got a free lift ticket as a bonus, a lovely surprise since we wanted to avoid stairs and planned to use the Barrakka Lift to get back to our accommodation in the capital.
Temples That Exist Outside of Time
One of the main reasons we chose Malta—besides the affordable flight—was its history. We always seek out ruins, old settlements, and buildings on our trips, and here we were spoiled for choice. On the main island, we visited the Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra temples, and on Gozo, the Ġgantija temple. Each site included an exhibition, so we didn’t just see ruins older than the pyramids but also learned the stories and mysteries these ancient structures hold.
It was especially thrilling to visit during the autumn equinox, as the temples’ orientation aligns perfectly with the changing light and darkness. I still get goosebumps thinking about how people thousands of years ago stood here, living in tune with nature’s rhythms (and who knows what else).
Not Everything Shines Like the Postcards
Of course, like any trip, there were parts that didn’t wow me as much. Marsaxlokk, popular for its colorful luzzu boats, was a bit disappointing. If you don’t arrive on market day, there’s not much beyond the waterfront restaurants and souvenirs to keep you long. Litter was noticeable in spots—likely due to tourists—and it did take away some of the charm.
We also visited the Three Cities, where we had our only less-than-pleasant experience: the water taxi’s posted fare was 3 euros, but by the time it was our turn, they asked for 5 euros each. It’s not a big sum, but in an EU country, such gestures feel less acceptable. Still, this was the only downside of the entire trip, so don’t let it hold you back.
Everyday Tips to Make Planning Your Trip Easier
Getting around Malta is generally very easy, even for those who don’t speak a foreign language or are older. The airport is small and easy to navigate, shops are close together in larger towns, and we even found a 24/7 store. Prices are roughly on par with home, and the sea was pleasantly warm at the end of September—even I, a die-hard thermal bath fan, took a swim. Still, bring a light jacket or blazer, as air conditioning on buses and in museums can be quite intense.
If you’re exploring cities, be ready for steep streets and lots of stairs—but don’t let that scare you. With basic fitness, anyone can handle it. I wouldn’t recommend biking or scootering because of the many elevation changes, unexpected stairs, and rough pavement, which can lead to unpleasant surprises—especially while sightseeing. Plus, driving is on the left side. But with taxis and buses, you can easily visit the many attractions, which are packed close together.
Malta is tiny but can’t be fully explored in just one trip—we didn’t even finish our bucket list. It offers a unique blend of ancient history and vibrant modern life, inviting beaches, medieval strolls, and lively markets. It’s a true cultural melting pot, mixing Arab, African, Mediterranean, and local vibes with a dash of British colonial charm—complete with all its beauty and color.
