Malta travel guide

With a whopping population of 6,098, the UNESCO listed capital of Malta can hardly be called a metropolis. But the city of Valletta most definitely proves that "good things come in small packages". Dating back some 500 years or so, the historic city has been (and continues to be) heavily restored. But both planning and execution of the refurbishments have been well done. While the main street can seem a little Disney-fied, the beauty of the endless side alleyways and magnificent churches are mesmerizing. Being the transport hub for the island's comprehensive bus network, the village-capital is unavoidable. Which is most certainly for the best as it is arguably the highlight of the island.

The charming capital of Gozo, Victoria, is scattered on a hill in the centre of the island. The heart of the city lies at the foot of the large citadel, and is a wonderful maze of narrow lanes and hilly streets. The citadel itself is very picturesque with superb views of Gozo Island. Victoria also has quite a few public squares and the one in front of St. George's Basilica (picture) is particular adorable with it's cafes. Just wait for the day trippers to leave, then you have Victoria almost to yourself.

This hidden and pretty cove is one of the best kept "secrets" in Malta. The water passage is narrow, winding, and long with steep rock walls and a small pebble stone beach at the end. A dip into the clear blue water is mandatory, if you have come all this way. If you take a short walk at the top of the cove, you will see another rock window, like the Azure Window. And if continue along the ridge (and is not too afraid of heights) you will get the best view of the coastline of Gozo.

For many, the idea of a coastal holiday will involve drinking some sort of alcoholic drink through a bendy straw while plopping themselves on a sandy beach with 10,000 other people trying to capture paradise. But the coast of the Maltese island of Gozo offers up something rather different. Part of Malta's defensive strategy of the years rested on the dramatic and stunning rock cliffs that line the southern shores. With the Xlendi Tower guarding the entranceway, the tiny natural port of Xlendi was like a little gateway to the south. The walks along the shores include Lord of the Rings-esque bridge, more caves than you can shake a stick at and salt collection pools. This is not your typical beach holiday, and it's a good thing.

There are sail boats, there are yachts, and then there are super yachts – and the marina at Vittoriosa has all of them. At the bottom of the harbour you find normal sail boats, but as you stroll further out, the yachts get bigger and bigger until you might stand in front of something like the "Maltesian Falcon". A 289-foot luxury yacht which costed more than $ 150 mill. to built and can be rented for the modest price of $600,000 per week (it's the one behind with the masts).