So we started looking around, examining the map from a different perspective, through this new lens. And then, as we dug a little deeper, we realized that, despite all the trips Antony had already taken, Malta was one of the countries he had never visited. <\/p>\n
It just goes to show that even after years of traveling the world, there are still obvious things we haven’t come across yet.<\/p>\n
And honestly, what a great idea! Because Malta isn\u2019t just a \u201cconvenient\u201d destination.<\/strong> If you’re looking for ideas for a week-long trip in Europe\u2014without necessarily renting a car, on a reasonable budget, and with plenty of charm\u2014I’ll share our itinerary, our favorite spots, and all my tips here.<\/strong><\/p>\n We quickly gave up on the idea of renting a car, even though the rental rates are very attractive. Public buses<\/a> provide excellent service around the island, for about \u20ac2 for two hours. You can pay directly with your credit card or in cash on the bus<\/strong>, but please note that travel cards are available<\/strong> for purchase at ticket offices, including at the airport and at terminals such as the Valletta Terminal, the Bu\u0121ibba Terminal, and Sliema Ferries.<\/p>\n Also worth noting: there are some very convenient transit hubs, such as Bombi<\/strong>, which make it easy to reach various parts of the island, including Mdina, Rabat, Marsaxlokk, and Zurrieq. Google Maps shows this quite clearly if you search for routes. <\/p>\n When you first set foot in Valletta, there\u2019s that brief moment when you slow down without even realizing it.<\/p>\n Even before crossing the city walls, visitors are greeted by the majestic Triton Fountain<\/strong>. With its three bronze figures supporting a massive basin, it seems to stand guard at the entrance to the capital. You can\u2019t miss it: it marks the transition from the modern city to the historic city you\u2019re about to explore. <\/p>\n Then come the honey-colored stones, bathed in that unique light that seems to envelop the entire island<\/strong>. The golden facades are adorned with warm hues, the narrow streets wind up and down toward the harbor<\/strong>, and every street corner seems to tell a piece of Maltese history. <\/p>\n Founded by the Knights of the Order of St. John after the Great Siege of 1565, Valletta exudes an almost solemn elegance. Yet it never gives the impression of being frozen in the past. Behind the monuments and Baroque churches, the city remains vibrant, brought to life by its residents, its outdoor cafes, and its small shops.<\/strong> <\/p>\n We took the time to just wander around, with no real destination in mind. That\u2019s probably the best way to explore a city\u2014and even more so in Valletta. Walking down a sloping street, coming upon a breathtaking view of the Grand Harbor, stopping for a few minutes in a shaded square, and then setting off again at random. <\/p>\n Among the must-see free attractions, I highly recommend watching the cannon firing at the Saluting Battery<\/strong>. Perched on the ramparts overlooking the Grand Port, this historic ceremonial platform offers one of the most beautiful views of the city. Every day, the time is still marked by two blank shots, at noon and 4 p.m.<\/strong> The spectacle is brief, but the atmosphere is unique\u2014especially when you consider that this site has been in use since Valletta\u2019s founding in the 16th century. Between the history, the view of the Three Cities, and the atmosphere of the place, it was a stop we absolutely loved. <\/p>\n We also stepped inside Casa Rocca Piccola<\/a>, and it\u2019s exactly the kind of visit we love: you step into a home, into a story, into a way of life. Behind the walls of this still-inhabited palace<\/strong>, you discover another side of Malta\u2014one that\u2019s more intimate and deeply endearing. <\/p>\n Finally, if there\u2019s one last sight in Valletta you shouldn\u2019t miss, it\u2019s St. John\u2019s Co-Cathedral<\/strong>. From the outside, it looks almost understated. But once you step inside, the effect is striking. Gilded details, marble, painted ceilings… every corner seems more impressive than the last. <\/p>\n Even if you’re not passionate about art or history, it’s hard not to be amazed by the richness of this place. You quickly understand why it’s considered one of Malta’s most beautiful monuments. <\/p>\n But what also attracts many visitors is the presence of a true treasure: Caravaggio\u2019s *The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist*.<\/strong> This immense canvas, painted in 1608 while the artist was staying in Malta, is often considered one of his masterpieces. It is, in fact, still on display in the very place for which it was created: the cathedral\u2019s oratory. <\/p>\n For lunch, as usual, we kept it simple but tasty! A sandwich at Piadina Caff\u00e8<\/a>\u2014fresh, quick, and perfect for getting on with the day without lingering too long. <\/p>\n Finally, if, like me, you love photography, Valletta is also a wonderful playground. I spent a lot of time looking up at the famous Maltese balconies that adorn the city\u2019s facades.<\/strong> Some are painted in bright colors, others bear the marks of time, but all lend incredible charm to the capital\u2019s streets. Their origins are said to date back to the Arab influence of the mashrabiyya\u2014those enclosed windows that allow residents to observe the street while preserving their privacy.<\/strong> Over the centuries, the Maltese have embraced this architectural feature, turning it into one of the island\u2019s symbols. Between the play of light on the golden stone, the colorful doors, and these balconies suspended above the narrow streets, every stroll becomes an opportunity to break out the camera. <\/p>\n D’ailleurs, j’ai deux spots sympas rien que pour vous :<\/p>\n I don’t think I expected to like Birgu this much.<\/p>\n We took the bus there\u2014lines A2, 3, or 4 from the Triton Fountain area<\/strong>\u2014without really knowing what to expect. We figured it would just be a quick getaway for a few hours before heading back to Valletta. <\/p>\n And then, as soon as we arrived, the pace of things changed.<\/p>\n From the very first streets, we sensed a different atmosphere\u2014quieter, more authentic, almost more intimate than the capital. Here, there are no wide avenues or throngs of people passing by. The narrow alleys invite you to wander, the facades bear the marks of time, and every street corner seems to tell a story. <\/p>\n Birgu is one of the famous Three Cities and was long the heart of Maltese life, even before Valletta was built. You can still feel that history today through its fortifications, small squares, and harbor, which give it a unique charm. <\/strong><\/p>\n We had a leisurely lunch at Caf\u00e9 Riche<\/a> before continuing our stroll with no real plan. That\u2019s actually what I recommend: take the time to get a little lost. <\/p>\n At the tip of the peninsula stands Fort Saint-Ange, the imposing guardian of the Grand Port<\/strong>. We decided not to visit it, preferring to enjoy the mild afternoon weather as we strolled along the docks. <\/p>\n We sat for a few moments facing the water, watching the huge yachts moored in the marina. Some of them are simply enormous. There\u2019s something fascinating about watching this quiet ballet between the traditional fishing boats, the sailboats, and these veritable floating palaces, which stand in stark contrast to the old stone buildings of Birgu. <\/p>\n The light was slowly beginning to fade, the facades were taking on golden hues, and the harbor was reflected in the almost still water… It was peaceful, simple, and incredibly beautiful. <\/p>\n Looking back, Birgu is probably one of my fondest memories of Malta. Maybe because we weren\u2019t expecting anything in particular. Maybe also because it\u2019s exactly the kind of place I love to discover while traveling: a place that doesn\u2019t try to impress, but ends up winning you over completely. <\/p>\n After exploring the streets of Valletta and taking the time to wander around Birgu, we wanted to discover another side of Malta. Heading to Mdina and Rabat.<\/strong><\/p>\n These two neighboring cities alone tell much of the island\u2019s history. As the former capital of Malta, Mdina<\/strong> has seen the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and Knights of the Order of St. John come and go. Right next door, Rabat<\/strong> has developed over the centuries while retaining a more down-to-earth and authentic atmosphere<\/strong>. Even today, it takes just a few minutes to walk from one to the other, but the atmosphere changes completely. <\/p>\n From Valletta, we took the bus to Mdina and Rabat, specifically the No. 53, which is very convenient for getting there.<\/p>\n And as soon as you arrive in Mdina, you\u2019re captivated by its charm. To <\/strong>enter the city, you must pass through its impressive main gate and walk along its ramparts.<\/strong><\/p>\n The city is nicknamed \u201cThe Silent One,\u201d and for good reason. Behind its fortifications, everything seems to slow down. Cars are a rare sight here, since only residents\u2019 vehicles are allowed on the streets. With no traffic noise, footsteps echo softly on the cobblestones, and you quickly find yourself swept up in the peaceful atmosphere of the place. <\/p>\n Even though there were a lot of visitors during our visit, there are enough streets for everyone to find their own quiet spot. I loved getting lost in this maze of narrow streets lined with tall, honey-colored stone walls, admiring the details of the facades, and stumbling upon a few balconies, old doors, or bougainvillea that added splashes of color. <\/p>\n And then there was that little ongoing spectacle that added to the town\u2019s charm: the ballet of the horse-drawn carriages. Every so often, the sound of hooves on the cobblestones would break the silence for a few seconds before giving way to calm once again. <\/p>\n This is the kind of place where you definitely shouldn’t rush around trying to see all the sights. My fondest memory of Mdina is simply that aimless stroll, wandering at random through the narrow streets and soaking up the city’s unique atmosphere. <\/p>\n And then, as we head back down toward Rabat, the pace changes slightly.<\/p>\n It’s livelier, more local, but just as pleasant. Locals chat in front of the shops, there are more outdoor seating areas, and there’s a small-town atmosphere where life goes on at a leisurely pace. <\/p>\n That\u2019s also where we made a must-see stop\u2014a spot you simply can\u2019t miss: Serkin Crystal Palace Bar<\/a>. It\u2019s one of the most famous places in Malta to try the famous pastizzi<\/strong>. These small puff pastries, filled with ricotta or pea pur\u00e9e, are as much a part of the local culinary heritage as the ramparts of Mdina are part of the country\u2019s historical heritage. <\/p>\n It’s hot, crispy, nice and greasy… and honestly delicious. And at about 60 centimes each, we’re not going to pretend to hesitate for long.<\/strong><\/p>\n We sat down for a few minutes to enjoy them while they were still warm before continuing our walk.<\/p>\n After exploring Malta\u2019s historic cities, we continued our tour of the island southward over the next few days, visiting two very different but perfectly complementary destinations: Zurrieq and Marsaxlokk.<\/p>\n We started with Zurrieq, a small, authentic village best known for being home to one of Malta\u2019s most famous landmarks: the Blue Grotto.<\/strong><\/p>\n As we have done since the beginning of our trip, we continued to get around by public transportation. From Valletta, take bus number 74 to reach the site in about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. A very convenient way to explore the island without a car, and one that also lets you enjoy the scenery along the way.<\/strong><\/p>\n And as soon as you reach the heights above the Blue Grotto, the show begins<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Here, there\u2019s not much to do\u2014just look. The limestone cliffs plunge into an incredibly blue sea;<\/strong> small boats pass through the natural arches carved out by erosion; and the light sometimes makes it seem as if the water is changing color from one moment to the next.<\/p>\n The Blue Grotto<\/strong> truly lives up to its name. Formed over time by the movements of the sea, it consists of several sea caves that can be explored by boat<\/strong> when conditions permit. We chose to enjoy the view from land, and it was already a truly contemplative experience. <\/p>\n To continue our day, we then took a Bolt from Zurrieq to Marsaxlokk. It was a simple and convenient option that allowed us to keep exploring without wasting too much time on transportation.<\/strong><\/p>\n And then, a complete change of atmosphere.<\/p>\n Marsaxlokk is a charming little fishing port… but it\u2019s very touristy<\/strong>. The village is best known for its luzzu\u2014those famous, brightly colored traditional Maltese boats<\/strong>, often decorated with the Eye of Osiris<\/strong>, which is said to protect fishermen at sea. <\/p>\n It\u2019s a place you really get to know by walking around. We enjoyed strolling along the harbor<\/strong>, watching the boats rock gently on the water, observing the fishermen, and soaking up the simple, authentic atmosphere.<\/p>\n The colorful facades, the terraces facing the sea, and the boats lined up side by side create an almost perfect setting for photography enthusiasts<\/strong>. But aside from these colorful boats, don’t expect to see an exceptional little fishing port. <\/p>\n Two very different places, but they really capture what I loved about the island: in just a few kilometers, you can go from a spectacular landscape to a small harbor where you can simply take the time to relax.<\/p>\n We couldn’t come to Malta without taking the time to explore Gozo.<\/p>\n Smaller, wilder, and better preserved than the main island, Gozo offers a different side of the Maltese archipelago. Here, you\u2019ll find more natural landscapes, quiet villages, and a sense of space that you feel immediately upon arrival. <\/p>\n There are several ways to get to Gozo from Valletta.<\/strong> You can take the Gozo Highspeed<\/a>, a high-speed ferry that saves time, but its schedule depends heavily on weather conditions. The other option\u2014the one we chose\u2014is to take the Gozo Channel Line<\/a> ferry further north on the island. <\/p>\n
\nIt\u2019s a wonderfully charming blend of the Mediterranean, history, honey-colored old stone buildings, small harbors, hearty local sandwiches, sunshine, and sunsets that make you want to slow down.<\/strong> <\/p>\n![\"Marsaxlokk,](\"https:\/\/jupetteetsalopette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/DSC_8937.jpg\" "\\"Marsaxlokk,")
<\/p>\nBefore You Go to Malta: What You Need to Know<\/h2>\n
\n
\n<\/strong>First of all, becausein Malta, they drive on the left. And <\/strong>that alone takes a little getting used to \ud83d\ude05 But mainly because you can get around just fine without one. Plus, on weekends and during the holidays, traffic can get really heavy. <\/p>\n
\nYou hop on, take it all in, and let yourself be carried along\u2026 And in the end, it\u2019s all part of the journey.<\/p>\n\n
Valletta, First Impression<\/h2>\n
![\"Triton](\"https:\/\/jupetteetsalopette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/DSC_8781.jpg\" "\\"Triton")
<\/p>\n![\"Casa](\"https:\/\/jupetteetsalopette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/DSC_8745-e1781690227923.jpg\" "\\"Casa")
<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/jupetteetsalopette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/DSC_8768-e1781690342167.jpg\" "\\"The")
<\/p>\n![\"Piadina](\"https:\/\/jupetteetsalopette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/DSC_8764.jpg\" "\\"Piadina")
<\/p>\n![\"Famous](\"https:\/\/jupetteetsalopette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/DSC_8680.jpg\" "\\"Famous")
<\/p>\n\n
Birgu, one of my fondest memories<\/h2>\n
![\"Caf\u00e9](\"https:\/\/jupetteetsalopette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/DSC_8801.jpg\" "\\"Caf\u00e9")
<\/p>\n![\"Alleyways](\"https:\/\/jupetteetsalopette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/DSC_8838.jpg\" "\\"Alleyways")
<\/p>\n![\"Birgu](\"https:\/\/jupetteetsalopette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/DSC_8820.jpg\" "\\"Birgu")
<\/p>\nMdina and Rabat: Two Different Atmospheres in One Stop<\/h2>\n
![\"Mdina,](\"https:\/\/jupetteetsalopette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/DSC_8868-e1781690730852.jpg\" "\\"Mdina,")
<\/p>\n![\"Mdina,](\"https:\/\/jupetteetsalopette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/DSC_8866-e1781690786617.jpg\" "\\"Mdina,")
<\/p>\nZurrieq and Marsaxlokk: Between Dizziness and Serenity<\/h2>\n
![\"Blue](\"https:\/\/jupetteetsalopette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/DSC_8895.jpg\" "\\"Blue")
<\/p>\n![\"Marsaxlokk,](\"https:\/\/jupetteetsalopette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/DSC_8961.jpg\" "\\"Marsaxlokk,")
\n![\"Marsaxlokk,](\"https:\/\/jupetteetsalopette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/DSC_8920.jpg\" "\\"Marsaxlokk,")
<\/p>\nGozo, an island within an island<\/h2>\n
![\"Arrival](\"https:\/\/jupetteetsalopette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/DSC_9045.jpg\" "\\"Arrival")
<\/p>\n
![\"Victoria,](\"https:\/\/jupetteetsalopette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/DSC_8969.jpg\" "\\"Victoria,")
<\/p>\n![\"Maya\u2019s](\"https:\/\/jupetteetsalopette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/DSC_8968-e1781691064447.jpg\" "\\"Maya\u2019s")
<\/p>\n![\"Blue](\"https:\/\/jupetteetsalopette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/DSC_8982.jpg\" "\\"Blue")
<\/p>\n![\"Marsalforn](\"https:\/\/jupetteetsalopette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/DSC_9059.jpg\" "\\"Marsalforn")
<\/p>\n![\"Marsalforn](\"https:\/\/jupetteetsalopette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/DSC_9049-e1781691292208.jpg\" "\\"Marsalforn")
<\/p>\n