Magical Malta: A 3-Day Island Adventure

I recommend taking a morning ferry from Sicily to Malta to kick off your exciting three-day adventure. The ferry ride takes about 90 minutes, and it's a great way to enjoy the scenic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Upon arrival at the Valletta ferry terminal, you can easily reach your hotel by taxi or by taking a short walk if you're traveling light. Check into the luxurious Phoenicia Malta hotel in Valletta, conveniently located just outside the city gates. Once you've settled in, spend the afternoon exploring the charming city of Valletta on foot. I highly recommend visiting St. John's Co-Cathedral, known for its stunning baroque interior and the famous Caravaggio paintings. Insider tip: Be sure to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees when visiting the cathedral. Take a stroll through the Upper Barrakka Gardens, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Grand Harbour, especially during the cannon firing ceremony held daily at noon. As you wander through the historic streets, don't miss the opportunity to visit the impressive Grand Master's Palace, which now houses the Maltese Parliament. For a quick and tasty lunch, grab a traditional pastizzi (savory pastry) from one of the local bakeries, such as Crystal Palace or Sphinx Pastizzeria. In the evening, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at one of the local restaurants in Valletta, such as Rubino for authentic Maltese cuisine or Noni for a modern twist on classic dishes.

Embark on a full-day boat tour from Valletta to the picturesque islands of Gozo and Comino. Most boat tours depart from Sliema ferry terminal, which can be easily reached by taxi or by taking a scenic 20-minute ferry ride from Valletta. Your first stop will be Gozo, Malta's second-largest island. Here, I suggest exploring the ancient Ġgantija temples, which are among the oldest freestanding structures in the world. Don't miss the chance to visit the Citadel in Victoria, Gozo's capital city and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Another must-see attraction is the picturesque Dwejra Bay and the site of the former Azure Window. For lunch, try some fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants in the charming fishing village of Xlendi. Next, your boat will take you to the small island of Comino, where you can swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the famous Blue Lagoon. Insider tip: Bring water shoes or sandals as the rocky beach can be uncomfortable to walk on. After a day filled with adventure and beautiful sights, return to Valletta in the late afternoon and enjoy a relaxing evening at your leisure. For dinner, consider trying some of Malta's famous street food, such as ftira (Maltese flatbread) or lampuki pie (fish pie), at the Is-Suq Tal-Belt food market in Valletta.

On your final day in Malta, I recommend taking the morning to relax and enjoy the amenities at your hotel or explore more of Valletta's fascinating attractions. If you're interested in history, pay a visit to the National Museum of Archaeology, housed in the historic Auberge de Provence building. The museum offers an excellent overview of Malta's rich history, from prehistory to the Roman period. If contemporary art is more your style, check out the Valletta Contemporary art gallery, showcasing works by both local and international artists. Insider tip: If you have time, take a short ferry ride across the Grand Harbour to the historic Three Cities of Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua for a glimpse into Malta's maritime past. Before you leave, make sure to do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs along Republic Street, where you'll find an array of local crafts, such as Mdina Glass and silver filigree jewelry. In the afternoon, bid farewell to Malta as you depart either by ferry back to Sicily or by flight from Malta International Airport. If you're flying out, be sure to arrange for a taxi or airport shuttle in advance to ensure a smooth and stress-free departure. Hopefully, you depart from Malta with an unforgettable adventure and magical memories!