Malta captivated me before I even set foot ashore. From the deck of my cruise ship, Valletta’s fortified limestone walls rose from the sea, glowing warm gold against the blue. No matter how you arrive, Malta enchants. Beyond its Baroque architecture and layered history, this compact archipelago between Sicily and North Africa offers plenty for business travelers and their companions—both during meetings and downtime.
For such a small country—the smallest in the European Union—hotel development is accelerating. Meliá Hotels has plans for multiple new properties, and the Hard Rock Hotel Malta is slated to open on St. George’s Bay. That growth means more options for extended stays that blend work and leisure.
PHOTO:
© KRIVINIS | DREAMSTIME
Valletta is compact and highly walkable—ideal for solo travelers, couples, families with small children and multigenerational groups. English is widely spoken (it’s an official language along with Maltese, and Italian is common), and the city’s attractions appeal to history buffs, culture seekers, souvenir hunters and beachgoers alike.
The best way to soak in the culture is to wander the narrow streets and alleys of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Much of the city is built from local limestone—known as Malta stone—a soft ecru that warms to golden tones with age. Flagstone and cobblestone streets are smoothed by centuries of footsteps. Distinctive architectural features include the gallarija, ornate closed wooden balconies related to the Arabic mashrabiya, which help cool buildings and allow discreet views to the street.
PHOTO: © OLGACOV | DREAMSTIME
Daytime is ideal for strolling as shops open, cafés fill and sea breezes temper the warm sun. One of the most picturesque spots I found was St. Lucia’s Street: steep but shallow steps leading toward the water, strings of white bulbs and colorful flags with historical emblems overhead, palm trees and lush foliage, and restaurants with bistro tables set right on the steps—perfect for people-watching.
Malta’s cuisine leans Mediterranean with local specialties such as aljotta (a garlicky fish soup), red-wine-braised octopus and the national dish, slow-braised rabbit ragù with pasta. The sunny climate supports wine from indigenous grapes like Girgentina and Ġellewża. Small cafés and wine bars along St. Lucia’s Street offer pleasant stops for a glass and a bite.
Valletta is a great place to shop for authentic souvenirs. Look for bizzilla lace—delicate handcrafted tablecloths and scarves—and vividly colored handmade Mdina glass bowls and vases. The Maltese cross, associated with the Knights of St. John, appears on pins, pendants and keychains, and delicate filigree jewelry features traditional motifs. Edible gifts include floral honey, olive oil, or a kit for making pastizzi, the flaky pastries filled with ricotta or curried peas. Seek out family-run and artisanal shops where you can watch items being made.
If you take the Barrakka Lift or walk up to the Upper Barrakka Gardens, you’ll find one of the best photo opportunities in Malta: sweeping views over Grand Harbour and the Three Cities—Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua—spread below.
Near the gardens is Casa Rocca Piccola, a mid-16th-century palace still inhabited by the De Piro family. Guided tours offer insight into Maltese aristocratic life, with formal salons, a wine cellar, family living quarters and a private chapel. The courtyard and balcony provide excellent views; knowledgeable guides may reveal hidden passages and an antique weapons collection.
St. John’s Co-Cathedral, built in 1578, is one of Europe’s finest Baroque churches. The richly ornamented interior features gilding, marble columns and frescoes. Tours typically include an audio guide and explore chapels tied to regional divisions of the knights.
PHOTO: © EVGENIY FESENKO | DREAMSTIME
There’s plenty to explore beyond Valletta on day trips. Mellieħa Bay, about 40 minutes north, is family-friendly with calm sandy beaches and amenities. About 40 minutes south, the Blue Grotto offers a less crowded experience reminiscent of Capri; short traditional boat rides navigate sea caves and caverns, revealing waters that shift from cobalt to turquoise with the light. Nearby St. Peter’s Pool is a popular natural swimming spot.
About 30 minutes west of Valletta stands Mdina, the “Quiet City,” where cars are generally absent. This over-4,000-year-old walled medieval city sits on a hill with sweeping views of the countryside. Mdina Gate makes a classic photo backdrop, and the honey-hued lanes, quiet courtyards and tucked-away cafés reward leisurely exploration.
LODGING
AX THE PALACE MALTA
Located in the lively seaside town of Sliema, about 20 minutes from Valletta, this 149-room hotel blends contemporary design with harbor-facing balconies, several dining options and a rooftop infinity pool.
High Street, Sliema
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PALAZZO CONSIGLIA
A small luxury boutique housed in a restored Maltese townhouse, this property offers 13 individually styled rooms that combine traditional stone architecture with modern comforts.
102 Saint Ursula St., Valletta
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THE PHOENICIA MALTA
A celebrated property featuring Neoclassical and Art Deco influences, with garden- and city-facing rooms and convenient access to Valletta’s waterfront and attractions.
The Mall, Floriana
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DINING
ION HARBOUR BY SIMON ROGAN
Malta’s only two-Michelin-starred restaurant focuses on seasonal, farm-to-table tasting menus that celebrate Maltese and Mediterranean flavors, backed by an extensive wine list and polished service, all with harbor views.
11 Saint Barbara Bastion, Valletta
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PALAZZO PRECA
Set in a Maltese townhouse with vaulted ceilings, this restaurant highlights Mediterranean ingredients—fresh fish, pasta and olive oil—with alfresco seating on a narrow pedestrian street.
54 Strait St., Valletta
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LA PIRA MALTESE KITCHEN
A casual, family-run spot in a 300-year-old building, known for rabbit, pan-fried octopus, aljotta and local sausages; outdoor seating is ideal for people-watching.
35 Merchants St., Valletta
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ESSENTIAL INFO
Starting in June 2026, direct nonstop flights from New York (JFK) to Malta International Airport in Luqa will be available. Several other carriers offer connecting service. A taxi ride to Valletta takes about 20 minutes and typically costs in the high twenties to mid-thirties in dollars, while the Express X4/X5 bus takes roughly 40 minutes and costs around $3.
Cruise ships usually dock in Valletta’s Grand Harbour. The Barrakka Lift runs from the Lower to the Upper Barrakka Gardens, though lines can be long; an alternative is a 20-minute walk up steep steps, which offers historic views but is not practical with heavy luggage or for those with mobility concerns.