Car Hire Malta

Mini guide to Malta

Tiny Malta has a fascinating history with settlements dating back 3000 years. Its importance rose considerably in the 16th century after it was awarded to the Knights Templar for their part in the crusades and they left a noble and impressive mark that is clearly seen today.

Valletta is a beautifully preserved 16th-century walled city, deliberately planned by the Knights Temple, and easily walkable. Immaculately presented and almost entirely surrounded by water, the city is packed with medieval buildings, the most prominent being the Auberge de Castille. The Palace of the Grand Masters is part museum and part seat of the government, with palatial interiors. From the magnificent Upper Barrakka Gardens, you can get fine views of the Grand Harbour and the Cottonera. St John's Co-Cathedral and Museum presents an austere facade, but the interior is a baroque masterpiece. A tour through Fort St Elmo is like stepping back in time 500 years.

Mdina is a 3000-year-old city, filled with Norman and baroque buildings and narrow cobblestone streets leading to a beautiful main piazza. It’s perched spectacularly on a rocky outcrop near Valletta. The Sicula-Norman Cathedral dates from the 12th C, and there are some fine museums.