Island of Malta – Let’s explore here

What’s it like in Malta?

Malta is a small island state in the Mediterranean Sea between Libya and Italy. It consist of six islands, the three largest of which, Malta, Gozo and Comino are inhabited. This page mostly focusses on the island of Malta, as we loved Gozo so much, we dedicated a separate page just for our exploration of that island.

The landscape of the state of Malta is low lying and mostly consists of hills and fields, and there are no rivers or lakes on the islands. The highest point is Ta’ Zuta, in the south west of the country, at 830ft (253m) above sea level.

The population of Malta is just around ½ million people (2021), most of whom live in and around the capital, Valletta. It’s the tenth smallest country in the world and the fifth most densely populated – 4,400 people per square mile (c.f. 720 people per square mile in the UK). The people are incredibly friendly and welcoming, and it also operates a digital nomad scheme, which you may find of interest.

Due to its strategic location in the Mediterranean sea, it has a very long and rich history, having been ruled by the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Greeks, Romans, Knights Hospitaller, Arabs, Normans, Aragonese, French and British. There are loads of incredible medieval buildings and beautiful churches to behold.

A bit about the history of Malta

Early History and Prehistoric Period

Malta’s history dates back to prehistoric times, with the earliest evidence of human settlement found from around 5000 BC. The islands were inhabited by early Mediterranean peoples, who constructed some of the world’s oldest freestanding stone structures. These Neolithic temples date back to around 3600 BC and are considered one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world.

Classical and Roman Rule

Malta’s strategic location in the Mediterranean attracted several ancient civilisations. The Phoenicians, around 800 BC, were among the first to settle on the islands, followed by the Carthaginians. In 218 BC, Malta was taken over by the Romans, who made it part of the province of Sicily. Under Roman rule, Malta prospered, and several Roman-era ruins, including villas, catacombs, and mosaics, can still be seen on the island today. Following the fall of the Roman Empire, Malta was ruled by the Byzantines until the 9th century.

Arab and Norman Rule

In the early Middle Ages, Malta was conquered by the Arabs in the 9th century. They introduced new agricultural techniques, including the cultivation of citrus fruits, and also built fortifications. The Arabs ruled Malta until the Normans arrived in 1091, taking control of the islands as part of the Kingdom of Sicily. Under Norman rule, Malta became a part of the larger Mediterranean Christian world.

The Knights of St. John

In 1530, Malta was granted to the Knights Hospitaller (Knights of St. John) by the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V. The knights made Malta their base and strengthened its fortifications, particularly after the Great Siege of 1565, where they successfully defended the island against the Ottoman Empire. The knights continued to rule Malta for more than two centuries, transforming the island into a center of European art, culture, and military power. During their rule, significant architectural developments were made, including the construction of Valletta, Malta’s capital.

French and British Rule

In 1798, Napoleon Bonaparte’s forces took control of Malta during his Mediterranean campaign, but his rule was short-lived. In 1800, following a rebellion against the French, Malta became a British protectorate, and in 1814, it was formally ceded to Britain under the Treaty of Paris. Malta remained a British colony for the next 164 years, serving as a vital naval base in the Mediterranean, particularly during World War II.

World War II and Independence

During World War II, Malta was heavily bombed by Axis forces due to its strategic importance. Despite the hardships, the island’s resilience earned it the George Cross from King George VI in 1942. After the war, Malta moved towards independence, which was granted in 1964. The country became a republic in 1974, and in 1979, the British military bases were withdrawn.

Modern Malta

Malta’s modern history is marked by significant economic growth, particularly through the development of tourism, financial services, and technology industries. The country joined the European Union in 2004 and adopted the euro as its currency in 2008. Today, Malta is known for its rich history, vibrant cultural heritage, and strategic location in the Mediterranean. It remains a member of the Commonwealth and is recognised as one of the smallest and most developed countries in the world.

Malta road trip

Our Maltese road trip was part of a much larger European road trip.

For our road trip through Malta, we travelled from Sicily in Italy to Valetta, the capital of Malta, and on to Il-Mellieħa. We toured extensively around the main island, as well as taking the ferry over to Gozo, and exploring that island too. There’s rally so much to see in Malta, and we were really glad that we chose Il-Mellieħa as a base, as it’s far less crowded that around the metropolitan area of the capital Valetta.

We particularly liked the coastline and all of the towers, as well as the Hagar Qim Temples. A lot of the architecture really reminded us of northern Africa, alongside resplendent Catholic Churches. Interacting with so many super-friendly English-speaking people hugely improved our knowledge of this intriguing and beautiful country, and we met loads of really interesting people.

Map of our road trip through Malta

Ferries to and from Malta

The ferry to Malta

Driving to Malta involved us taking the ferry from Pozzallo in Sicily, Italy to Valletta, Malta. Actually, rather than a ferry, it was a catamaran, and a rather posher experience than many other Mediterranean ferry rides! The journey only takes 1¾-2 hours, so there are no cabins. There were hardly any passengers on the ferry in mid October, the food was decent and the seats reclined and were very comfortable. You could even see clearly out of the windows, which was a bonus 😉

When we arrived in Valletta, it was pitch dark as it was evening. Due to Brexit, we were held by customs officials for a long time, so that they could register our car, determine whether we were going to sell it in Malta, and register our addresses for our whole time in Malta!

When we were finally allowed to continue our journey, we’d forgotten that they drive on the left in Malta, which completely threw us. Additionally, it’s busy thoroughfare around the terminal, as is everywhere around the capital. So initially driving around was tricky, as the only drivers on the road were driving pretty quickly … not the leisurely experience we were used to!

The ferry to Gozo

Driving to Gozo involved us taking the ferry from Cirkewwa to Mgarr, on the south east coast of Gozo (not to be confused with Mġarr on the main island of Malta!). The ferry travels between the islands many, many times a day, and the journey only takes around ½ hour.

There were quite a lot of passengers on the ferry in mid October, and quite a lot of drivers had to do three-point-turns within the ferry to fit in.

Paying for the ferry to Gozo

As of 2024, there is no way to purchase tickets online. You also don’t pay anything to travel on the ferry from the island of Malta to Gozo, and there are no checks. You do however pay for the ferry from Gozo to the island of Malta – there is a toll gate on the road at the entrance to Mgarr ferry port.

Our favourite places in Malta

These are some of the best places that we explored on our road trip through Malta. We’ve put them in alphabetical order.

Armier Bay

Armier Bay is located in the far north west of Malta, overlooking the island of Comino. It’s known for the lovely blues of its waters, and for the 17th century white watchtower (Maltese: Torri l-Abjad) that’s located there.

Baħrija

Baħrija is a small town in the west of Malta, that is home to the Parish Church of St Martin of Tours. The church was built n 1984 and is an unusual design for Malta, as it’s not grandiose.

Birżebbuġa

Birżebbuġa is a small town on the south coast of Malta, popular amongst the local population.

Dingli

Dingli is a village on the west coast of Malta, that’s home to some great cliffs that offer excellent views over the sea towards Filfla island. The Dingli Radar building, used to monitor air traffic, is also located there.

Filfla island

Filfla island is located off the south coast of Malta. The Ħaġar Qim temples face the island. The UK Royal Navy and Royal Air Force used the use the island for target practice!

Fort Manoel

Fort Manoel is an 18th century fort located just north of the capital, Valletta, on Manoel Island in Marsamxett Harbour.

Ġnejna Bay

Ġnejna Bay is home to a lovely beach, very popular amongst the local population. The bay is located on the west coast of Malta, not far from Mġarr.

Ħaġar Qim

Ħaġar Qim is a set of ancient temples made from huge stones from around 3600–3200 BC. The temples are located on the south coast of Malta, facing out to Filfla island in the Mediterranean Sea (see above). At solstice, sun rays enter through holes carved in the stones and hit the altars.

Ħamrija Tower

The Ħamrija Tower (Maltese: Torri tal-Ħamrija) is a 17th century watchtower located on the south west coast of Malta next to Ħaġar Qim. The tower overlooks Filfla island (see above) and has recently been restored. The tower also overlooks Għar Ħanex, a natural arch on the coast.

Mdina

Mdina is a fortified city located west of central Malta. It was the capital of Malta from ancient times until the 16th century. It’s very popular with tourists with around 1½ million visiting annually.

Mellieħa

Mellieħa is a lovely, small town in the far north west of the island of Malta, close to the port for both Gozo and Comino. It has lovely beaches, some great cafés and restaurants, and is an excellent base for exploring the islands of Malta.

Mġarr

Mġarr is a small village in north west Malta that’s home to a resplendent church, named the Parish Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary into Heaven. The church was built in the early to mid 20th century, on the site of a 15th century church.

Mosta

Mosta is a small city in central Malta with a population of almost 23,000 (2021), making it one of the most densely populated places in Malta. The Sanctuary Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady, known locally as the Rotunda of Mosta dominates the centre. The dome of the church is the third largest unsupported dome in the world. In WW2, a German bombshell fell through the dome but did not detonate upon impact!

Notre Dame Gate

The Notre Dame Gate is located in south east Malta, not far from the capital, Valletta. It was built in the 17th century to fend off Ottomans attacks.

Saint Agatha’s Tower (The Red Tower)

Saint Agatha’s Tower (Maltese: Torri ta’ Sant’Agata), or The Red Tower, is a 17th century watchtower located in far north west Malta, overlooking Mellieħa and Gozo. The tower dominates the area from its vantage point and due to its colour. As of October 2024, it was under restoration.

Sliema

Sliema is a small town just north of the capital, Valletta, in Marsamxett Harbour. With a population of almost 23,000 (2019), it is the most densely populated place in Malta.

Valletta

Valletta is the capital city of Malta, and is the smallest capital in Europe, with a population of around 5,000 people (2021). The city is dominated by its defensive fortifications built between the 16th and 19th centuries. As expected, there are many cafés restaurants in Valletta, and many of the views from the capital are excellent.

Żabbar

Żabbar is a small city in south east Malta, close to the capital, Valletta. It’s home to the 17th century Parish Church of Our Lady of Graces.

What’s it like to drive in Malta?

As with driving in the UK, they drive on the left hand side of the road in Malta.

Driving in Malta is mostly a sedentary affair, mostly due to its small size, and the density of the population, but also because of the large number of speed cameras and traffic enforcement police. We experienced no tailgating, which was a huge relief after travelling extensively through Italy! Most Maltese people we met were in fact very polite, and often they’d let you out at junctions.

Most of the main road infrastructure on the islands is very good, although in very remote areas, especially near to the coast, the roads are mostly gravel tracks with potholes, although in no way are they to be described as poor (in comparison to many other countries across Europe).

Do you require an international driving permit in Malta?

We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.

Can you use your UK driving license when driving through Malta?

We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.

Do I need a carnet de passages to drive in Malta?

We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.

What are the speed limits in Malta?

The speed limits for cars in Malta are:

• 30 mph (50 km/h) for urban driving
• 50 mph (80 km/h) outside of built up areas
• 50 mph (80 km/h) on dual carriageways
• There are no motorways in Malta

What currency do they use in Malta?

In Malta they use the Euro. The use of credit / debit cards is now widespread. Travellers cheques are accepted. There are lots of ATMs.

You should make yourself aware of the amount that your bank charges you for using credit and debit cards abroad. Often credit cards are cheaper for purchasing items directly, and for withdrawing cash from ATMs.

What language do they speak in Malta?

They speak Maltese and English in Malta. More than two thirds of people also speak Italian, and many speak French, although to a lesser degree.

What time zone is Malta in?

Remember, when you’re planning your next trip to take a look at what time zone it’s in.

Do I need a visa to visit Malta?

We’ve created a dedicated, more comprehensive page on visas, which you should find helpful. Check it out!

Is wild camping legal in Malta?

No, wild camping is illegal in Malta.

What plug / socket type do they use in Malta?

Health issues in Malta

Is it safe to drink water in Malta?

Yes, it is safe to drink tap water in Malta. Bottled water is also readily available across the country. 

What vaccinations are required for Malta?

This NHS website is kept up to date with all relevant information on vaccinations in Malta.

Phones in Malta

What is the country calling code for Malta?

The country calling code for Malta is +356

What are the emergency phone numbers in Malta?

• The emergency number for police in Malta is: 112
• In Malta, the emergency number for ambulance is: 112
• The emergency number for fire in Malta is: 112

If you’ve got some useful info that you’d like to share, let us know! 

And don’t forget to check out all the other pictures!