Malta Uncovered

Overview

For 6,000 years, Malta has been at the crossroads of almost all the ancient Mediterranean civilizations. Many visitors never experience its undiscovered side, but this tour balances a wonderfully varied history, unique scenery, and atmospheric old towns, making it an ideal destination for both exploration and relaxation.

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Arrival in Malta

Arrive at the airport for your flight to Malta. Upon arrival, a coach will transfer you to your chosen hotel: the four-star Golden Tulip Vivaldi in St Julian’s or the Maritim Antonine Hotel & Spa in the idyllic village of Mellieha.

Day 2: Valletta

Explore the magnificent 16th-century city of Valletta with a guided walking tour. Visit:

• St. John’s Cathedral – a masterpiece of baroque architecture with Caravaggio’s famous painting, The Beheading of John the Baptist.
• The Malta Experience – an audio-visual journey through the island’s history.
• Optional visits to the Archaeological Museum, Grand Master’s Palace, or the National War Museum at Fort St. Elmo.

Day 3: Gozo

Take a trip to the sleepy island of Gozo, visiting:

• Victoria (Rabat) – a medieval town with twisting streets and the imposing Citadel.
• Dwejra Bay – dramatic coastal formations and sheer cliffs.
• Ggantija Temples – prehistoric structures older than the pyramids.

Enjoy Gozo’s terraced fields, wildflowers, and thyme-scented air.

Day 4: Free Day

A day to explore at your own pace. Suggestions include:

• Wandering around St Julian’s and its picturesque quayside.
• Visiting the Hypogeum, a 3,500 BC underground burial chamber (advance booking required).

Day 5: Rabat & Mdina

Visit the early Christian and medieval sites of Rabat and Mdina:

• St. Paul’s Catacombs – an intricate maze of 4th-century burial chambers.
• Wignacourt Museum – former residence of the Chaplains of the Knights of Malta.
• Mdina – Malta’s ancient walled city with stunning views.
• Church of Mosta – home to one of the world’s largest domes and the site of an unexploded WWII bomb.

Day 6: Free Day

Another day for personal exploration.

Day 7: The Blue Grotto & Hagar Qim

Discover Malta’s southern coast, including:

• The Blue Grotto – stunning sea caves with phosphorescent colors.
• Hagar Qim – a UNESCO-listed prehistoric temple complex.
• Marsaxlokk – a traditional fishing village perfect for a leisurely lunch.
• Vittoriosa – a historic fortified city known for its role in the Great Siege of 1565.

Day 8: Return Flight

Transfer to the airport for your return flight.