Malta

Malta is a stunning destination with a rich history, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant culture. Let’s create a fun and engaging 3-day itinerary for Jadranka, Erika, and Andrea that balances exploration, relaxation, and a bit of adventure!

Day 1: Valletta and the Three Cities

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a traditional Maltese breakfast. Try some pastizzi (flaky pastry filled with ricotta or peas) and a strong coffee at a local café.
• Explore Valletta: Head to the capital city, Valletta. Visit the stunning St. John’s Co-Cathedral, where you can admire the beautiful Baroque architecture and Caravaggio’s famous painting, "The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist."

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Waterfront Restaurant: Enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants along the Grand Harbour. Fresh seafood is a must-try!
• Visit the Upper Barracca Gardens: After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through these beautiful gardens for breathtaking views of the harbor and the Three Cities.

Evening:

• Explore the Three Cities: Take a short ferry ride to the Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua). Wander through the narrow streets, visit the Inquisitor’s Palace, and soak in the history.
• Dinner in Vittoriosa: Enjoy dinner at a charming restaurant in Vittoriosa, perhaps trying some local dishes like rabbit stew or bragioli (beef olives).

Day 2: Mdina and Rabat

Morning:

• Breakfast in Mdina: Head to Mdina, the ancient capital of Malta. Grab breakfast at a café with a view of the city walls.
• Explore Mdina: Spend the morning wandering through the narrow, winding streets of Mdina. Don’t miss St. Paul’s Cathedral and the stunning views from the bastions.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Rabat: Just outside Mdina, Rabat offers some great lunch spots. Try a local bakery for a quick bite or a sit-down meal at a traditional restaurant.
• Visit St. Paul’s Catacombs: After lunch, explore the fascinating St. Paul’s Catacombs, an underground burial site that dates back to the early Christian period.

Evening:

• Return to Valletta: Head back to Valletta for the evening. You could catch a performance at the Manoel Theatre if there’s something on that interests you.
• Dinner in Valletta: Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city. Savor some Maltese wine to toast to a wonderful day!

Day 3: Gozo Adventure

Morning:

• Ferry to Gozo: Start your day early and take the ferry to Gozo. The ride is scenic and sets the tone for a day of adventure!
• Breakfast in Gozo: Once you arrive, have breakfast at a local café in Mgarr.

Afternoon:

• Explore Victoria: Head to the capital city of Gozo, Victoria. Visit the Citadel for stunning views and explore the charming streets.
• Lunch in Xlendi Bay: After exploring, make your way to Xlendi Bay for a relaxing lunch by the sea. Enjoy some fresh fish or pasta while soaking in the beautiful views.

Evening:

• Visit the Azure Window (Dwejra): If time allows, visit the iconic Azure Window (though it collapsed in 2017, the area is still stunning). You can also check out the Inland Sea and take a boat ride if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Return to Malta: Head back to the ferry terminal and return to Malta.
• Farewell Dinner: For your last night, have a farewell dinner at a lively restaurant in St. Julian’s or Sliema, where you can enjoy the nightlife and perhaps even some live music!

Tips:

• Transportation: Consider getting a public transport pass for easy travel around the islands.
• Stay Hydrated: Malta can be quite warm, so keep water handy, especially during your explorations.
• Local Delicacies: Don’t forget to try local sweets like kannoli or imqaret (date-filled pastries) during your trip!

I hope this itinerary helps Jadranka, Erika, and Andrea have an unforgettable time in Malta! Enjoy every moment! 🌞✈️