Malta Discovery Self-Drive

On arrival at Malta International Airport, collect your hire car and make your way to your hotel in Sliema. After checking in, you are free to spend the rest of the day as you wish – perhaps take a stroll along the seafront promenade or relax at the hotel. Overnight in Sliema.

Today we suggest you discover Valletta on foot, taking in the city’s rich culture and distinctive character. Known as ‘the city built by gentlemen for gentlemen’, Malta’s capital offers a blend of history and relaxation. You might like to begin with a 30-minute harbour cruise in a traditional gondola, followed by a visit to the Upper Barrakka Gardens, accessible by lift. At midday, you can experience the Gun Salute at the gardens, which also provide panoramic views over the Grand Harbour and the historic Three Cities – Senglea, Vittoriosa and Cospicua.From the Upper Barrakka Gardens, you may wish to join a guided walk of approximately 90 minutes, passing Castille Palace, the Parliament Building and St John’s Co-Cathedral. The cathedral is renowned for its ornate stonework, painted vaulted ceiling and houses Caravaggio’s celebrated ‘Beheading of St John the Baptist’. Afterwards, a 15-minute walk will take you to the Malta Experience, an audio-visual show that presents the islands’ 7,000-year history. The show offers insight into Malta’s past, including the story of the Knights of St John and their origins in caring for the sick, which you can explore further on a tour of La Sacra Infermeria, the former Holy Infirmary. Overnight in Sliema.

Today we suggest you visit Mosta, a central town renowned for its impressive Basilica. The church’s dome, built in the 18th century, is the third largest unsupported dome in Europe and became notable during the Second World War when a bomb pierced the dome but did not explode, sparing the lives of those inside. Your next stop can be Ta’ Qali, also known as the crafts village, where you can visit the Mdina Glass Factory to watch local artisans create intricate glass pieces – an ideal opportunity to find unique souvenirs. Continue on to the old capital, Mdina, famous for its Baroque architecture, cathedral and imposing bastion walls overlooking the countryside. While in Mdina, you can visit St Paul’s Cathedral, a 17th-century masterpiece designed by Lorenzo Gafà. Overnight in Sliema.

Begin your day with a drive south to Vittoriosa, also known as Birgu – one of Malta’s oldest towns. After a short stroll along the promenade, you can explore the historic streets, passing through the main square towards the Church of St Lawrence. From here, you may wish to visit the Inquisitor’s Palace, a significant building from the era of the Knights of St John, once used as a place of detention for those accused of plotting against the state. Continuing further south, you reach the fishing village of Marsaxlokk, renowned for its colourful traditional boats, called dhajsa, lining the harbour. If you visit on a Sunday, the lively seafront market is a popular spot for both locals and visitors – you can take some free time to browse the stalls or simply soak up the atmosphere. Overnight in Sliema.

After your final breakfast at the hotel, we recommend allowing plenty of time for your journey to Malta International Airport. At the scheduled time, drive to the airport and return your hire car before checking in for your onward flight.