Highlights of Malta & Gozo

Merhba! Welcome to Malta. Your adventure starts in Valletta – this little Mediterranean island packs a real punch when it comes to historical sights and attractions. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight at your hotel, where you’ll meet your local leader and the other members of your group. If you arrive early, you may like to visit the National Museum of Archaeology or take a stroll along the restaurant-lined waterfront. After your meeting, why not get to know your group over dinner in town – your leader will be able to recommend some great spots. Aljotta (fish soup) and gbejniet (Maltese cheese) are particularly delicious!

This morning, head out on a leader-led walking tour of Valletta. Stop by a traditional cafe to sample some tasty Maltese pour-over coffee. Once you’re energised, make your way to the St. John's Co-Cathedral to learn about the city’s fascinating connection to the Order of the Knights of St. John. Then, swing by the Upper Barrakka Gardens – a public space with a history stretching back to the 16th century. From the gardens, ride a large elevator down to the Grand Harbour – taking in the views as you descend – and hop aboard a ferry to explore the rest of the city. Take a step back in time as you walk the winding streets and find remnants of Malta’s turbulent past, before returning to Valletta to enjoy the rest of the afternoon as you wish. (B)

Get to know more of Malta today on a daytrip around the island. Stop in the fishing town of Marsaxlokk first to check out the local market and the colourful fishing boats. Then, continue to the archaeological site of Hagar Qim – it’s one of the world’s oldest religious sites, dating as far back as 3600 BC, exploring the remains of the ancient temple. After building up an appetite, head to a local restaurant housed in an 18th-century Baroque building, renowned for its local ingredients, for an authentic farm-to-table experience. Your next stop is the fortified city of Mdina, where your leader will explain centuries of Phoenician, Roman, Byzantine and Arab history. Since it served as the island’s capital until the medieval period, there’s lots to learn as you walk around the walls. Continue to Cirkewwa and board a ferry bound for Mgarr – a harbour town on the neighbouring island of Gozo. You’ll then hop on the public bus to Marsalforn, your final destination for the day and your base for your time in Gozo. This evening, take a well-deserved break and soak up the laidback atmosphere of this seaside resort town. (B/L)

Start your day with a coastal hike from Xlendi to the Ta Cenc Cliffs. The trail runs close to the cliff’s edge, giving you unparalleled views of the Mediterranean. As you near the end, follow a country road to a little town called Sannat and refuel with a pastry from a local bakery. Then, hop on a public bus back to Marsalforn and, walk to the Salt Pans in Xwejni, which date back to Roman times. Learn how the land is designed to extract salt from saltwater from a local family who has been harvesting from these pans for over 150 years. In summer, you might even witness the harvesting for yourself! After, embark on a hike along Gozo’s North coast to Wied il-Ghasri, known for its high cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Cool down with a swim in a secluded inlet before walking back to Marsalforn for the evening. (B)

Today, walk to the Salt Pans in Xwejni, which date back to Roman times. Learn how the land is designed to extract salt from saltwater from a local family who has been harvesting from these pans for over 150 years. In summer, you might even witness the harvesting for yourself! After, embark on a hike along Gozo’s North coast to Wied al-Ghasri, known for its high cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Cool down with a swim in a secluded inlet before returning to Marsalforn. Later it is time to visit a family run local winery where you will taste some of the local wines. Tonight, don’t forget to ask your leader for recommendations on the best bars and restaurants in the area. (B)

The day is yours to discover more of what Gozo has to offer. With something to suit every interest, be sure to ask your local leader for tips on how to get the most out of your free time. You may like to head to one of the island’s beautiful beaches, stretch out with a good book, or cool down with frequent dips in the Mediterranean. Or, if you prefer to stay active, you could hike to more ancient ruins and medieval villages. However you decide to spend your time here, it’s sure to be a day to remember! In the afternoon, get back together with your group to bid farewell to Gozo and take a ferry back to Valletta. Upon arrival, perhaps go out with your fellow travelers for one last dinner together. (B)

With no activities planned, your adventure comes to an end after breakfast today. If you’d like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation. (B)