Miles of stunning limestone coastline. Regions dense with UNESCO prehistoric sites. Hidden bays sheltering crystal clear water and sun soaked beaches. An enticing mix of culture developed over thousands of generations. If you haven’t already added the small Mediterranean archipelago of Malta to your European bucket list, you’d better do it now!
A brand-spanking-new 2020 destination for Topdeck, our 12 Day Sicily and Malta Explored trip will take you off the traditional tourist trail and give you a culture-packed Med trip to remember! Want a bit of inspo? Check out these epic experiences in Malta you really don’t want to miss. Trust us.
#1 Explore the streets of Valetta
It may be small but Malta’s capital of Valetta sure packs a punch! Described as one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world, this golden-hued UNESCO World Heritage Site has alllll the 16th century feels. On day eight of our Sicily and Malta Topdeck trip we’ll take a traditional dgħajsa water taxi to the city and check out the amazing views from the lift to the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Later: we’ll hit the history-laden streets on a walking tour – passing the City Gate, Parliament Building and Opera House before settling in for a drop of Cisk (lager) on the waterfront. ‘Cos soaking up all that culture is thirsty work, you know!
#2 Enjoy the azure waters of the Blue Lagoon
Comino’s Blue Lagoon = beach heaven. Seriously. A strong contender for one of the best beaches in Malta, this glistening swimming spot is lined with limestone rocks and gleaming white sand – with water so blue you’d think you were in a postcard. Did someone say boat trip? We’ll jet over to Comino on day ten of our Malta adventure to soak up all the island paradise vibes. Roll out your towel and spend the day working on your tan or strap on a snorkel and get searching for Nemo. This place deserves all the heart eye emojis.
#3 Visit Mdina at golden hour
Welcome to Citta Notabile (aka the Noble City). With over 4,000 years of fascinating history, a unique mix of medieval and baroque architecture and an array of mysterious hidden lanes – the ancient city of Mdina is a must-see for history buffs. Busy with tourists during the day, Mdina is best explored during the golden glow of the late afternoon when the cultural treasures of the city really light up with a timeless atmosphere. Visiting with Topdeck? After a day soaking up the rays in Comino, you’ll get to wander the walled city after dark (oooh, atmospheric!) and see why the locals call this place the ‘silent city’. Eerie doesn’t quite cut it.
#4 Sip on sunset cocktails at Cafe del Mar
Stunning ocean views? Check. Infinity pool? Check. Amazing cocktail list? Check! The biggest beach club in Malta, Cafe Del Mar is THE place to be when you’re chasing all the relaxed island vibes. Spend the day living the VIP life chilling on a poolside sunbed as you soak up the views over the Mediterranean or head to the upper level deck at sunset for uninterrupted panoramic views and a cheeky cocktail (or two) with your Topdeck BFFs. And when the sun goes down – the DJ decks come out. We won’t blame you for wanting to stick around. When in Malta, right?
#5 Cool off in Sliema’s ‘Roman Baths’
Once little more than a small fishing village, today Sliema has morphed into Malta’s most sought-after neighborhood – thanks to its buzzing social life and swish apartment buildings. If you’ve got some free time (aka a whole day on our Topdeck Sicily & Malta Explored trip!) and want to experience another side to Malta, make sure you head to this swanky hidey-hole. Take a stroll along the seaside promenade (gelato in hand, of course!) or cool off in Sliema’s unique ‘Roman Baths’. Later, why not check out the vibrant bar scene in nearby Paceville? This place is known as Malta’s most exciting town for a reason!
#6 Get exploring Gozo
Gozo, we’re coming for you! For such a small island, Gozo sure has its fair share of exciting attractions and activities. We’ll take the ferry over to Gozo on our last full day as Malta #Topdeckers and jump on a 4×4 safari adventure around the island – stopping off at the beautiful Dwerja Bay for a dip in the spectacular deep sea of the bay. Want more? Head on over to the terracotta sands of Ramla Bay, slap on the SPF and get horizontal under the Mediterranean rays or scramble up the surrounding hills for some epic views across the bay. Whatever you choose, sleepy and laid-back Gozo is the perfect end to an incredible Malta adventure.
Well, we’re sold! 2020 dates for our 12 Day Sicily & Malta Explorer trip are available to book now. What are you waiting for?
