Maribor

Slovenia upon first sight may seem too surreal to be true - majestic alpine mountains, glassy wide lakes, carved-out gorges and fairytale villages that border the Adriatic Sea and limitless nature. But it doesn't take long for any traveller to discover that Slovenia's beauty isn't only abundant, but also accessible and welcoming to everyone. 

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Perhaps it’s the feeling of being tucked away and secluded. Add wine to the adventure and it’s even more fun. Vinegar Wine Cellar, existing since 1847, combines all of those charms into one place.

With a wine cellar that reaches over 15,000 square metres underground, it’s one of the biggest European wine cellars that’s in the middle of a city. Wooden barrels and large concrete tanks of wine are stacked in rows after rows. The 144 wooden barrels are monolith in size, which makes the guided tour of the underground Vinag Wine Cellar even more compelling. 

As you explore 2 kilometres of a wine tunnel, keep in mind you’re right underneath the city of Maribor itself! Afterwards, have a lovely wine tasting in the cavern tasting room and enjoy the taste of the home harvest speciality. 



What is it about underground caverns and tunnels that make them so fascinating?

Vinag Wine Cellar hosting a wine tasting with a group of people by the barrels.

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Vinag Wine Cellar with a collection of wine barrels stacked by each other.

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A wine collection displayed in a row at the Vinag Wine Cellar.

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A group of people doing a wine tasting at the Vinag Wine Cellar

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Row of barrels displayed at the Vinag Wine Cellar.

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Places To Eat

When it comes to the culinary scene, we’ve got you covered with a list of dining and drinking experiences to take your tastebuds on a journey through {{area}}! Searching for the best local markets with yummy stalls? Curious about cooking classes, or wondering which traditional drinks and bites to try out? Our community of locals have some tasty recommendations for you.

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Food & Drinks

Vinag Wine Cellar

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Steeped in fascinating history no matter which corner you turn, Malta is a treasure for those seeking the best in life: romance, beauty, and of course eternal sunshine.

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Cultural trip

Family Fun

Perfect for solo travellers

Couples getaway

City and beach

They say don’t judge something by its size - but by its impact. In this case, the smallest country in Europe is Malta, yet it’s a treasure trove of a destination to discover. Sensational Mediterranean climate thanks to being the southernmost country of Europe, with a history that spans over two thousand years, Malta is one of those countries that leaves the traveller with a little more inspiration and wanderlust after having explored it. 

This island nation’s landscape is characterized by low hills, with a few valleys, mostly on its main southern shore. Malta has a population of 400,000 people but due to its land size - it's also one of the most densely populated countries in Europe.

Whether you’re travelling to Malta in the summer or winter, you simply can’t go wrong. It’s the perfect destination for those who want to get away from the cold grey winters in continental Europe, as the sun shines on Malta for more than a whooping 300 days a year. 

With a British legacy, Latin roots, Italian influence, and Arabic touches - Malta’s cultural heritage, linguistic diversity and delicious cuisine is just as dynamic as the country. 




Piercing in the skyline of Valletta is this huge magnificent dome belonging to St. Paul's Cathedral.

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St. Paul's Pro-Cathedral in Valletta

One of the prime museums of Malta, MUZA has a collection of works by Maltese and international artists with works mostly in major European artistic styles. 

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MUZA - Museum of Fine Arts

A lively and jovial square in the heart of Valletta, in the evenings this is where locals come out for strolls and to hangout. 

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St. George’s Square

Built in 1992 to honour the thousands of Maltese victims in World War 2, this structure now remains a peaceful look out into the sea.

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Siege Bell War Memorial

These tranquil and lush gardens overlook the harbour, giving you fantastic panoramic views of what makes Malta such a postcard-perfect country.

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Upper Barrakka Gardens

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Valletta

Malta

Southern Harbour District

Stop 1: Valletta
The capital city of Valletta is a glorious historical city, that’ll make you feel like you’re exploring an age that has long past elsewhere - but still very much untouched here. Also most likely if you’re flying into Malta, this will be where you start! Explore the cobblestone streets, stunning architecture, and impressive fortifications. Don't miss out on St John's Co-Cathedral, a grand Baroque building with an intricately decorated interior. 

Already you’ll get an impression of how many centuries far back Valletta goes. 
If you head over to St George’s Square in the heart of Valletta, you’ll  find plenty of restaurants, bars, and cafes as well as street performers and art galleries.Take a stroll along Republic Street to see some of Valletta's most beautiful architecture or visit the Manoel Theatre for some amazing live performances. 

You can also check out one of Malta's many museums such as the National Museum of Archaeology or the National Maritime Museum. The National War Museum is also worth a visit; it’s full of fascinating artefacts from Malta’s turbulent past. 

My favourite part of the city? Walk over to the stunning Upper Barrakka Gardens, which offer incredible views of the Grand Harbour. Valletta may be a small city but it’s packed with culture and history, and there are plenty of underrated places to explore. 


Luciano Valletta Boutique

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West street apartments

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Valletta Harbour View Apartment

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Luciano Al Porto Boutique

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Casa Asti

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Art & Culture

Sightseeing

On the edge of  Senglea’s peninsula is the ever-so-full of grace, Gardjola Gardens. A spot that makes for a peaceful lookout into the surrounding waters.

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Gardjola Gardens

The Senglea Basilica is a great example of how Malta's culture and architectural landscape has been influenced by the Romans too.

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Senglea Basilica

Take a walk out by the waters of Cospicua, and you'll find a stunning waterside with a UNESCO World Heritage site backdrop.

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Vittoriosa Yacht Marina

Right away in Vittoriosa, this huge well-preserved fort will catch your eye. You can explore its historical wall which gives great views into the harbour.

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Fort Saint Angelo

Can you believe that this Vittoriosa museum was actually a bakery for the Royal Navy? Yep, once the former Royal Naval Bakery was built in the 1840s for the Mediterranean Fleet now it's a museum dedicated to the maritime. 

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Malta Maritime Museum

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Malta's Three Cities

Three cities in one stop? I know what you’re thinking but don’t get intimidated! The Three Cities of Malta are all worthwhile, all superbly majestic, and all a good bite-size that makes it easy to explore within one day. From the Grand Harbour of Valletta, here you can take a ferry across to the Three Cities – Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua – for some more interesting sights that go beyond the capital.  My preferred method of getting across the harbour to the Three Cities is taking the classic Dgħajsa, a traditional fishermen's boat that now some locals use as an independent ferry for passengers.

Vittoriosa (you’ll also sometimes hear it being called Birgu) is home to the Grand Harbour, which was once the largest natural harbour in the world. It is now a busy commercial seaport and Malta's busiest tourist attraction. Vittoriosa was founded by the Knights of St John in 1566 as Fort St Angelo on an island just off the coast from Mdina and named after Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor who sponsored their order during his reign. It was later renamed Birgu (meaning "good town") by Grand Master Nicolas Cotoner who ruled Malta from 1676 to 1680 when it became one of Malta's three most important cities with Valletta and Mdina.

Senglea is Malta's second city, with an extensive fortification system built by the Knights of St John which has been restored to its former glory. Senglea is also sometimes referred to as Isla. The first thing that catches your eye is the Basilica, standing ever so proudly looking out into the water. The Safe Haven Gardens is a little park that juts out above the peninsula, where you can go for stellar panoramic views. 

Then there’s Cospicua (it’s also known as Bormla), the third city, which was once regarded as one of Europe’s most fortified cities, with a 16th-century bastioned enceinte surrounding it. Today it is one of Malta's most densely populated areas due to its proximity to Sliema and Valletta - two other popular tourist destinations in Malta but that doesn’t make it any less of a beauty. The best thing to do in Cospicua? Ditch the map and get lost inside its many cobbled alleyways. 


Ddream Hotel

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Azur Hotel by ST Hotels

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AX The Victoria Hotel

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Backstage Boutique Music Themed Townhouse

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Marco Polo Party Hostel

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Adventure

While it's impressive from the outside, on the inside it's even more stunning - look up the ceiling to find it covered in frescoes and paintings depicting St. Paul's life.

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St Paul's Cathedral of Mdina

Also called locally as the Main Gate, this is the entrance into the fortified city of Mdina in Malta. Built in 1724 in a Baroque style, it still stands today the same as it was back then.

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Mdina Gate

As a Baroque building that was originally built as a Jesuit seminary, it's now a religious art museum situated within the mediaeval walled city. 

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Mdina Cathedral Museum

A true medieval townhouse that was built as a residence by Maltese nobility. Now you can visit this house museum with 17 rooms filled with its antique collections.

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Palazzo Falson of Mdina

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Mdina

The Western District

Known as the "Silent City", Mdina is a walled city perched on a hilltop in the centre of Malta (giving you great views of the Maltese countryside!). It’s one of the oldest inhabited cities on the island, with a history dating back to 800 BC.

Mdina is full of hidden gems that are worth exploring. Start your journey at St Paul's Cathedral, which dates back to 1693 and features Baroque-style architecture. Then, wander through the narrow streets to discover historic palaces such as Palazzo Falson and Palazzo Vilhena. If you're interested in art, make sure to visit Palazzo de Piro, which houses an impressive collection of artworks from local artists.

For an activity that is quite charming, take a horse-drawn carriage ride around town or explore the old city walls for stunning views of Malta's countryside. You can also take a guided tour of Mdina Dungeons for an insight into its medieval past.

If you're looking for something unique to do in Mdina, why not visit The Silent City’s Museum? This interactive museum showcases artefacts from Mdina’s past and offers visitors an interesting insight into its culture and heritage. Or if you're feeling adventurous, why not try your hand at falconry? The Falconry Centre in Mdina offers visitors the chance to learn about these majestic birds up close and personal!


Spooky? Yes. But way too cool to explore? Yes indeed! Deep underneath the city of Rabat is St. Paul's Catacombs, where you can roam around to see the extensive system of underground tombs.

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St Paul’s Catacombs

Take a trip back in time to this ruined Roman-era house. Built in the 1st century BC for an aristocrat, this town house then became a Muslim cemetery in the 11th century.

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Domus Romana

This church secretly connects to St. Paul's grotto underneath its floors, adjoining the St. Paul's catacombs and WW2 bunkers - all true hidden gems in Malta.

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Basilica of St Paul in Rabat

Today, this museum housed in an 18th-century Baroque building connects to the grotto and WW2 bunkers that you can explore. Back then, it was used for the Chaplains of the Order of St. John.

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The Wignacourt Museum

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Rabat

Afterward exploring Mdina, take a drive to Rabat - it’s comparably a sister city to Mdina since the two are super close by each other. In Rabat, you can explore ancient catacombs carved into the rock beneath St Paul's Church. End your day with dinner at one of Rabat's charming restaurants and try out some traditional Maltese food.

When it comes to food, Rabat has plenty of options for all tastes and budgets. From traditional Maltese restaurants to international eateries, there is something for everyone here. For dessert, try some delicious local pastizzi (pastries) or gelato from one of the many ice cream parlours in town.


Casa Azzopardi Guesthouse

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Adelphi Boutique Hotel

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D'Ambrogio Guest House

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Point de vue Guesthouse

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My Travel House

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On Comino Island, accessible from Gozo Island is the legendary Blue Lagoon. Swim in its mystical waters, hike around the island and soak up its beauty.

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Blue Lagoon of Malta

While the iconic arch of the Azure Window has long collapsed, what's left standing is still worth a peek, as waves crash onto the natural structure.

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Azure Window

A cavern that was carved out naturally by mother nature over the ages, it overlooks the famous sandy bay of Ramla Beach below with Malta's beautiful sea.

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Tal-Mixta Cave

Walk in the same steps that stretches beyond millennia amongst the world's oldest monuments which is this neolithic temple made out of limestone.

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Ġgantija Temples

If you go on the weekday, you'll have stretches of this pristine beach to yourself. The reddish-coloured sand makes for a unique sight, contrasting with the deep blue of the sea.

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Ramla Bay

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Gozo Island

Gozo and Comino District

Head to shimmering blue waters from Gozo Island and Comino Island for a day of relaxation and exploration! While you can do Gozo Island in a half day trip, if you want to take it easy to really appreciate its sites to the full extent, we definitely would recommend one full day for the island, especially if you do an excursion out into Comino Island. Visit Ggantija Temples – prehistoric ruins that are believed to be older than Stonehenge – then take a dip in Dwerja Bay or Ramla Bay. 

One of the most special things you must do while in Malta? Check out the Blue Lagoon. The Blue Lagoon is reachable with a quick boat ride from Gozo Island, and you can do this as a side excursion, booking it the day of when you go to the port. However long you want to spend there is up to you, as the boats make frequent roundtrips. The Blue Lagoon is exactly what the name entails - an almost mythical-like sea natural pool with glistening touristique waters, some of the clearest in Europe, ready for you to dive right into. Adding to the allure of the natural lagoon, it gets its blue colour from sunlight reflecting off underwater limestone formations. 

Many people make a beach trip out of this, bringing their swimsuit, towels, etc. while others prefer to come and do little hikes around the lagoon.


Kikka Holiday Home

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Georges Boutique Living

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DGolden Valley Boutique

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The Segond Hotel

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Nature

Hiking

Gozo Island and the Blue Lagoon on Comino Island

Aqua clear water that looks completely untouched makes this natural swimming pool in a horseshoe-shaped rock formation a favourite dive spot for locals and travellers.

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St. Peter's Pool

Also locally known as Il-Bajja ta' Marsaxlokk, this bay retains its working fishing village vibes amongst yummy traditional restaurants. 

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Marsaxlokk Bay

Explore this wild protected reserve that stands amongst megalithic temple remains by classic chalky white cliffs of southern Malta.


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Xrobb l-Għaġin

Also called Santwarju tal-Madonna ta’ Pompei, this Roman Catholic parish church is situated in the middle of the fishing village, dedicated to Patron of All the Fishermen.

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Church of Our Lady of Pompei 

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Malta’s South Coast

On the final stop of your Malta trip, spend your last day in Malta exploring Marsaxlokk. Marsaxlokk is a traditional fishing village on Malta’s south coast known for its colorful boats called luzzu dotting the harbor waters. It’s quite the sight to see, and most definitely picture post-card perfect! 

Enjoy lunch at one of Marsaxlokk’s seafood restaurants (a must if you enjoy seafood, since Malta’s cuisine does it so well) before visiting Hagar Qim Temples, an impressive megalithic site dating back thousands of years ago. 


Vinag Wine Cellar

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