A Long Weekend in Malta

While researching for my March/April Europe trip - I stumbled upon Malta for easy access from Spain and a rich history mixed with crystal blue waters. With very little planned in advance, Malta made for an amazing long weekend trip - and I certainly could have spent more time!

Day 1 - Arrival in St. Julian’s

I landed in Malta around 4 PM (origin was Malaga, Spain) and grabbed a Bolt from the airport (super handy app for getting around, Uber was less available). My hotel, the Vivaldi, was in a great spot - close to the water and easy to walk everywhere. After checking in, I headed out to explore. I had a gorgeous coastal walk stretching all the way to The Point Shopping Mall and through Sliema. The mix of rocky shoreline, sea breeze, and evening light was the perfect first impression.

Day 2 - Boat Tour to the Blue Grotto & Gozo

I was up by 7:30 AM for another Bolt ride to St. Paul’s Bay, where my boat tour began. We cruised along the coast, stopped at the famous Blue Grotto, and spent time on Gozo Island. On Gozo, I explored the Citadel, wandered quiet streets, and grabbed a quick bite before heading back. The ride itself was beautiful and Malta’s coastline from the water is something special. I returned to St. Julian’s in the late afternoon and enjoyed a slow, relaxing evening capped with a sunset walk.

Day 3 - Valletta & Poolside Afternoon

Another morning, another walk along the water! I couldn’t get enough of that coastal path for walking and running. From Sliema, I hopped on the ferry to Valletta (cheap, easy, and scenic) and joined a 10 AM walking tour. The guide shared so much about Malta’s layered history, and the city itself was a mix of grand views, colorful balconies, and TONS of stairs.

After lunch, I took the ferry back and spent the afternoon at Aqualuna Malta. For €20, the half-day pool pass was perfect for unwinding in the sun. Dinner that night was at a small pizza spot where the owner was so friendly, and the pizza was some of the best I’ve had. I wandered through St. Julian’s nightlife area for a bit before heading back to rest. Staying in Valetta would offer a different experience and if I returned, I would likely split my time staying half in St. Julians area and half in Valetta. The ferry is well-connected, so the experience is not lacking regardless of where you choose to stay (just a personal preference!)

Claudio's Pizza

Day 4 - A Slow Farewell

I started the day with one last run along the water, followed by coffee and a slow morning soaking up the sunshine. There’s nothing better than simply walking through a beautiful place with no agenda. Around noon, I headed to the airport and ended the trip with what is now my favorite lounge ever. If there is a lounge to visit, it is the Malta lounge!

First Solo Trip Reflections

This was my first little “solo” trip, and it went so well. Traveling alone let me explore at my own pace and meet new people along the way. I left feeling both relaxed and inspired, with a few more stamps in my mental scrapbook. I felt completely safe in Malta, met many friendly locals and travelers, and LOVED the coastal walking paths here!