Reisgids voor Malta: essentiële tips

1. What are the top attractions in Valletta?
Top attractions in Valletta include St. John’s Co-Cathedral with its Caravaggio paintings, the Upper Barrakka Gardens for panoramic views, the Grand Master’s Palace, and the National Museum of Archaeology. Don’t miss the Saluting Battery and a stroll along the city’s fortified walls.

2. What is the best time to visit Malta?
The best time to visit Malta is spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) for mild weather, ideal for exploring Valletta and swimming in the Blue Lagoon. Summer (July to August) is hot and great for beachgoers, while winter (December to February) offers fewer crowds and cultural events.

3. Do I need a visa to travel to Malta?
Malta is in the EU and Schengen Area. EU citizens don’t need a visa. US, Canadian, and Australian citizens can stay visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Others may need a Schengen visa—check with the Maltese embassy for specific requirements.

4. What are the best beaches in Malta?
Top beaches include the Blue Lagoon on Comino for crystal-clear waters, Golden Bay and Għajn Tuffieħa on Malta’s northwest coast for sandy shores, and Mellieħa Bay for a family-friendly beach. Gozo’s Ramla Bay is famous for its red sand, and St. Peter’s Pool near Marsaxlokk is great for cliff diving.

5. Is Malta expensive to travel to?
Malta is moderately priced. Daily costs average $60–$100 per person for accommodation, food, and transport. A mid-range trip can cost $700–$1,000 for a week. Valletta and Sliema are pricier, but rural areas like Gozo offer more affordable options.

6. What are traditional Maltese foods to try?
Try pastizzi (flaky pastries filled with ricotta or peas), rabbit stew (fenkata), a national dish, and lampuki pie (fish pie). For dessert, enjoy imqaret (date-filled pastries). Pair your meal with a Kinnie (a bittersweet soda) or a glass of local wine like Gellewza.

7. What are the best historical sites in Malta?
Visit the Megalithic Temples of Ġgantija on Gozo, among the world’s oldest structures, and the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, an underground necropolis. Mdina, the “Silent City,” offers medieval charm, while the Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua) showcase maritime history.

8. What are the best activities in Gozo?
Popular activities in Gozo include swimming at the Blue Hole near the former Azure Window, exploring the Ġgantija Temples, and visiting the Citadel in Victoria. Kayaking around the island, diving at the Inland Sea, and hiking along the coastal cliffs are also highlights.

9. What are the best festivals in Malta?
Top festivals include the Valletta Baroque Festival (January), Carnival in February with colorful parades, and the Malta International Fireworks Festival (April). The Għanafest (June) celebrates traditional Maltese folk music, and village festas throughout summer feature fireworks and feasts.

10. How can I travel around Malta?
Buses are the main mode of transport, connecting Valletta, Sliema, and Gozo affordably. Ferries run between Malta, Gozo, and Comino. Renting a car is ideal for exploring rural areas, though parking in Valletta can be tricky. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Bolt are also widely available.