Valetta
This beautiful city was once home to the knights of St John, with history and culture that dates back to 60 AD, where according to history was where Paul the apostle was shipwrecked.
Although not the oldest city on Malta, Valetta is the smallest European city.
Dating back to 1565 it was built after the great siege by the ottoman Turks, and is well renowned as being the most powerful and fortified city in the world.
The second world war saw a decrease in the population of Valletta to approximately 900 as many of the inhabitants moved to different area’s where the more modern houses had been built, having said that you wouldn’t think so due to the many tourists that visit each year.
During your stay in Valletta, there are many wonderful places to visit such as the Manoel Theatre Museum, The Archaeological Museum to name but a few, but if you prefer why not take a stroll around St Anne’s square gardens, or the beach, you can also take a ferryboat ride to neighbouring Gozo and Comino.
Maltese and English are the main languages spoken on the island and the currency is the Euro.
At Malta International Airport there is a bureau exchange which is open 24 hours a day so you will always be able to change your currency, also there are plenty of banks you could use.
Most international bankcards are accepted on the island and can be used in shops, restaurants, hotels etc. You will find a lot of the shops are open late up to 10pm,so plenty of time to shop till you drop!
Accommodation is in abundance here, hotel’s, (some of which offer wellness spa’s) b&b’s self catering, Whatever your preference you will be sure to find it.
Travel on the island is very easy either by car, public transport, or even bicycle. Driving is on the left hand side, and no matter what mode of transport you use you will find the most beautiful scenery Valletta has to offer.
Many activities can be enjoyed here such as scuba, jet ski-ing, wind surfing, or maybe you fancy a walk along the many trails around the coastal area where you can take a breather in one of the many snack bars along the way.
A great place to visit is the market in Merchant Street, which is held every Sunday morning, you can also enjoy one of Valletta’s music concerts, which are held mainly in summer.
There are lots of multicultural restaurants in the city from Italian at the Ambrosia, Japanese at Hibiki, or how about French cuisine at The Carriage.
If you’re looking for the more Mediterranean menu then go along to Rubinos.
St Julian’s on Paceville is the place for the nightlife, clubs bars, bistros, and if that’s not enough stagger along to Q Bar which is the best after hours bar on the island.
To sum up Valletta I would say, that whatever you want from your visit you can be certain this beautiful little gem will not disappoint.
