Perhaps the thought of battling through hordes of selfie-stick-waving tourists is turning you cold this summer.
Maybe the idea of staying in a resort where one must rise with the sun simply to ensure a poolside seat is making you want to burn your passport.
If this is ringing true then you may want to consider a trip to the EU’s tiniest nation, which offers plenty of hidden gems and attractions that are just that little bit less busy and well let’s just say it: "touristy".
ALL THE VIBES, NONE OF THE HASSLE
When you consider how straightforward it is to book a trip, given that plenty of major airlines like Ryanair, Jet2 and easyJet now fly directly from the UK to Malta, it's unsurprising that this sleepy country has boomed in popularity over recent years. There are numerous directories that'll save you a pretty penny or two. If you travel to Malta with Opodo, for example, you can book both your hotel and accommodation with one simple search and use their online comparator to help secure the best deals. In addition, the majority of these flights are direct, which saves you the despair of running to make your connecting flight or any concerns about luggage being lost along the way.
Malta boasts a reputation as an exclusive holiday destination without the exclusive price tag. However, it's not just the appeal of a sweet bargain that has made Malta the ideal location for a trip abroad. Over the last decade, picturesque Maltese landscapes have been highlighted by gargantuan franchises like Game of Thrones, which developed a reputation for seeking out iconic filming locations in Europe. Avid fans have been making the precious pilgrimage to see the sights in the flesh and pay homage to some of their favourite characters.
Regardless of the reasons why, Malta's tourism sector has felt the benefits. If you're wondering how to fill your trip to Malta, whether that’s diving, dining or soaking up the culture, read on to find Malta’s best hidden attractions!
SEASONAL FOOD WITH A RUSTIC HEART AND ONE TO WATCH ON THE WINE SCENE
Whilst Malta is famed for its rustic stews and local beers, it’s also rife with high-end bars and restaurants. For fancier food, you’ll probably want to take a look at the Michelin Guide to source a more fine dining experience. However, if it’s a hidden culinary gem you’re after, then you’ll need to seek out the places where you can dine and drink like a local, rather than a tourist.
Ta’ Rosina's, Sannat
For authentic Maltese scran, it doesn’t get better than Rosina’s. Charming, quaint and rustic are all words that spring to mind when visiting this wonderful restaurant run by some of the friendliest staff around. Despite its growing popularity, the village location and limited menu (it’s very much, get what you’re given!) make it a little less popular with your average tourist and still allow for a quieter dining experience.
Address: 32, Pjazza Xelina, Sannat, Gozo. Opening times: contact the restaurant for more information. Price Range: €10 - €30
The Tal-Massar winery
The Tal-Massar vineyard is located in the traditional village of L-Għarb, on Goya’s most westerly point which sees fewer visitors than Malta itself. Not only will you be able to sample a selection of wines and Maltese snacks, but you’ll also get a tour of the private estate with some breathtaking views across the island.
Address: Tas-Sisien, L-Għarb, Malta. Opening times: Vineyard tours and wine tastings every Tuesday and Saturday. For groups of over five people, other days can be booked on request. Price range: Contact the winery for more information.
The Hole in the Wall
This hole in the wall is the oldest bar in Malta. Tucked away down a quiet, easy-to-miss alleyway, whilst boasting a no-advertising policy, this characterful bar is the very definition of a hidden gem. In addition to a great choice of local wines and beers, there’s a fantastic selection of interesting bar food available too. The Hole in the Wall is also more than just a bar and hosts live music, art exhibitions and talks from all over the world.
Address: High Street, Sliema, Malta. Opening times: Monday to Friday: 12:30 pm - 1 am. Saturday & Sunday: 5 pm - 1 am. Price range: Beers from €2.50, wines €4.00, snacks from €3.50
7,000 YEARS OF HISTORY AND CULTURE, FROM MEGALITHIC TEMPLES TO WW2 BUNKERS
When it comes to soaking up the Maltese culture, most tourists will head straight to one of the three sites inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Whilst these are of course all worth visiting, Malta and its neighbouring islands are jam-packed with historical significance so you can still immerse yourself in its rich cultural tapestry without the queues and cameras!
Mdina
The walled city of Mdina is far more secluded than the bustling capital Valletta. Despite offering plenty of boutique hotels and restaurants, Mdina has less than 300 inhabitants and as cars are banned it’s easy to see Mdina is known as the silent city.
Getting there: Cars are prohibited on Mdina but taxis are permitted to drop off and pick up at the entrance. Regular buses run from Valetta.
Casa Rocca Piccola
Although in the heart of busy Valletta, it’s still possible to escape the crowds by booking your own private tour at the Casa Rocca Piccola. This 16th-century Palace of Maltese nobility also still functions as a privately owned family home, giving visitors a living museum kind of experience. You’ll be able to learn about the unique customs of the Maltese nobility and visit over 50 rooms filled with impressive furnishings and works of art.
Address: Casa Rocca Piccola, 74 Republic Street, Valletta. Opening times: Monday to Saturday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Ticket prices: Contact the venue for more information.
Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum
The Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum is an underground burial complex which dates all the way back to 4000 BC. Visit the museum to view a wealth of archaeological finds and explore the burial chambers themselves. Although this a popular attraction, visitors are required to book months in advance and the museum has strict limitations on the number of visitors, meaning it’s unlikely to get too crowded.
Address: 35, Heritage Malta Head Office, Dawret Fra Giovanni Bichi, Kalkara. Opening times: open 7 days a week 10.00 am-4.00 pm, Ticket prices: from €4
INTO THE DEEP: TAKE A DIVE DOWN TO REEFS, WRECKS AND COVES
Francesco Ungaro / Pexels
To book the perfect diving experience you don’t need to head all the way to the Caribbean. As Malta boasts some of the best diving sites in Europe. Not only are there crystal-clear waters alongside stunning cliffs and coves to explore but Malta is also home to over 15 diveable ship and aircraft wrecks. Whilst the Blue Hole is one of the more popular spots to dive, there are myriad alternative sites to explore if you’re a more experienced diver who wants to escape the crowds.
Billinghurst Cave
Firstly, this stunning cave isn’t for first-time divers, so if you’re serious about diving and want to avoid the masses of snorkelers and paddlers found at the more accessible caves this one’s for you. Billinghurst Cave is tucked away in a deeply indented corner of the shoreline in Gozo. Little light penetrates this atmospheric cove but you don’t have to dive to the centre to appreciate the size and majesty of one of the longest caverns on the island. Suitable for 2nd/3rd level divers only!
Location: Situated on Gozo’s north coast past the Xwejni salt pans and to the west of Reqqa Point.
FROM MALLS TO MARKETS: SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP IN MALTA
Whether you love your international brands or prefer something a little more local, Malta is a shopper’s paradise. There are plenty of traditional markets to explore with the Birkirkara Market among the most popular or if you prefer to shop indoors, head to one of the shinier new complexes such as Plaza or the Embassy. However, there are plenty of alternatives that offer fewer queues and a little more charm as well as the opportunity to support local trade.
Bejta Artisan at The Ta' Nikol Gallery
The Nikol Gallery is set within an old stable and tucked away, down one of the side streets in old Victoria. Once inside you’ll find the Bejita Artisan a delightful little craft shop selling art works and crafts all made by local artists. They constantly update their collection with unique pieces to suit all ages tastes and budgets.
Address: 43 Mons Guzeppi Farugia, Victoria, Gozo. Opening times: Weekdays and Saturdays 9.30 am-2 pm
Birgu Car Boot Sale
For the ultimate quirky shopping experience, head to Fuq Il-Fortini for the Birgu Car Boot Sale. Sift through the second-hand clothes and random bric-a-brac and soak up the atmosphere of a more traditional Maltese market.
Address: Birgu Flea Market, Fuq Il-Fortini. Opening times: Sundays 5 am - 12 am
COASTLINE TO COUNTRYSIDE AND SUNSETS OVER THE SEA: VIEWS TO TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY
You just need to stand still and spin in Malta and you’ll be guaranteed a truly incredible view. Whether it’s the sun glistening on beautiful blues seas, the silhouette of an ancient monument or the unspoilt rolling countryside, Malta offers a feast for the eyes at every corner. If however, you want to take in the view whilst enjoying some peace and quiet, you’ll need to take yourself off the beaten track.
Il-Ħofra L-Kbira
Il-Ħofra L-Kbira is an unspoilt and completely hidden creek on Malta’s southeast coast. This viewpoint really is off the beaten track so there certainly won’t be any large crowds to spoil the magnificent views of the craggy coastline and crystal-clear waters. There aren’t any amenities nearby and it’s a considerable distance from the main road, so you’ll need to make sure you’re well-kitted out and take plenty of water and sunscreen!
Location: Marsaxlokk, Malta. Getting there: Buses aren’t particularly regular so if you’re not staying within walking distance you may need to hop in a taxi.
Riviera Bay
This is one of the island’s smaller bays. If you clamber down the long flight of steps to the bay you’ll be rewarded with stunning rural views and the ideal place to watch the perfect sunset. As well as the beautiful scenery you’ll also be able to see an ancient defence tower dating back to the 1600s which was used as a watch tower during the Second World War.
Location: Manikata village. Getting there: Buses run to Gneja Bay, which is around 1km from the bay
Whilst even the least well-travelled of travellers can book the perfect holiday to Italy with their eyes closed, Malta isn’t the first country that springs to mind when you say European break. But with stunning scenery at every turn, a wealth of history and culture as well as being easy as pastilla to get to, it’s no wonder that Malta is creeping up the ranks as a go-to destination.
