The Best of Malta

Upon arrival at Malta’s airport, you’ll be met with a warm welcome with a private transfer provided to your hotel in the capital of Valletta where you’ll have the rest of the day to enjoy at your leisure, whether you want to relax after a long flight or venture out. The city was laid out in a grid pattern making it easy to explore, and just outside the City Gate, you’ll see one of its most famous landmarks, the Triton Fountain with three massive bronze Tritons ideal for a selfie. From here you can admire the enormous fortifications that have protected Valletta for over 450 years.

Valletta has a long, rich history that you’ll explore with your private guide. The walking tour will bring you through the capital city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site founded in 1566, to see many historical points of interest, including many sites along Republic Street, 16th-century St. John’s Cathedral, one of the finest examples of baroque architecture, and Manoel Theater which opened its doors in 1732, now one of Europe’s oldest still in operation. You’ll visit the series of halls in the Grandmaster’s Palace which includes a collection of remarkable medieval artifacts. Explore the National Museum of Archaeology and the National Library too.

An exciting day awaits that begins with a private transfer to the marina where you’ll hop on a yacht for a private cruise along the southern coast of Malta. The exact itinerary will be based on the current sea and weather conditions, but your experienced skipper will discuss it with you once you’re aboard. You might visit the crystal-clear bay of II Hofriet, framed by limestone cliffs, or St. Peter’s Pool, a cove with turquoise water perfect for a refreshing dip that would be challenging to reach on foot. Enjoy this enchanting paradise with a picnic that’s been supplied, complete with snacks, water, and prosecco.

Trace the connection between Malta, the Church, and World War II with your private driver/guide today, heading to Rabat to witness the earliest evidence of Christianity in Malta at St. Paul’s Catacombs. This massive complex with interconnected underground tombs and passageways ways was used through the 8th century. Visit the natural cave where St. Paul preached the word of God after being shipwrecked on the island in 60 AD, with hand-built shelters used in the war lying below. You’ll make your way through them for a glimpse of what the Maltese endured before continuing to the most iconic and largest church in Malta, the Mosta Dome.

This morning your private guide will bring you to the ancient “silent city” of Mdina where humans have lived since at least 2500 BC. The former capital of Malta, it sits on a hilltop as one of the best examples of an ancient walled city in Europe, including an exceptional mix of baroque and medieval architecture. Walk through the baroque-style gate, marvel at grand historic palaces, and visit the 18th-century Mdina Cathedral with its dome that dominates the skyline. Head to adjacent Rabat where in 60 AD the apostle Paul was shipwrecked and lived for several months inside a cave, now called St. Paul’s Grotto.

Take a private transfer to Gozo Island today which includes a short ferry ride. Once you’ve settled into your hotel, you’ll meet your private driver for a unique Gozitan culinary experience: the chance to eat and drink like a local. You’ll travel to the outskirts of Victoria to enjoy a three-course lunch at an authentic Gozitan eatery, featuring local, seasonal products that will be complemented by a tasting of four different Gozitan and Maltese wines. Afterward, you’ll be returned to your hotel with the afternoon enjoyed at your leisure, ideal for exploring, souvenir shopping, and dining on your own.

Today you’ll embark on a private guided tour of picturesque Gozo island with your guide and driver. You’ll begin at the UNESCO-protected Ggantija Temple, which pre-dates Stonehenge and the Egyptian temples. After a thorough exploration, you’ll continue to a viewpoint high in the Nadur Hills, with fabulous views across Ramla Bay. A series of afternoon visits take you through the contrasting scenery of limestone caves, salt pans, and the spectacular landmark of Dwerja Bay, where you’ll enjoy a short boat ride. Finish the day with a walk through the atmospheric Citadel of Victoria, with its narrow alleyways and soaring hilltop Cathedral.

Having explored Malta in-depth over the past week, it’s time for your adventure to come to an end. After checking out of your hotel, your private driver/guide will transfer you to Malta International Airport with a total travel time of approximately 90 minutes, including the ferry ride back to the main island. If you’d like to combine this itinerary with another, extend your time in Malta or enjoy further travels anywhere else, our travel experts will be happy to help. Otherwise, we wish you a safe journey and hope to see you again on another unforgettable trip.