An Escape Weekend in Malta

Let’s face it, March in Ireland can be rather grim. While the promise of spring is just around the corner, the grey skies and lingering chill often feel like an unwelcome reminder that winter still has a hold.

Enter Valletta, Malta, a historic gem bathed in sunshine, where 20-degree temperatures feel like a blessed gift. Trade your woolly jumpers for linen trousers and prepare to be enchanted.

A long weekend in this UNESCO World Heritage city is the perfect antidote to the winter blues, offering an ideal mix of history, culture, and, above all, relaxation.

This isn’t your typical rowdy holiday destination. Valletta, the capital of Malta, is a city of sophistication. Picture honey-hued limestone buildings adorned with ornate balconies, narrow cobbled streets whispering tales of the past, and a deep sense of tranquillity that wraps around you like a warm Mediterranean breeze.

Here’s how to make the most of a restorative weekend escape to this sun-kissed paradise.

Friday: A Historical Immersion

Arrive at Malta International Airport (MLA), just a short three-hour flight from Dublin. You can pre-book a taxi or hop on the express bus to Valletta, with the journey taking around 20 minutes.

Once you’ve checked into your accommodation, Valletta offers plenty of boutique hotels nestled in beautifully restored palazzos. Be sure to choose one with a rooftop terrace to enjoy those spectacular sunset views.

Start your adventure by diving straight into the heart of Valletta’s history. Begin at St. John’s Co-Cathedral, a Baroque masterpiece. The unassuming exterior hides an interior that will leave you in awe; think gold leaf, intricate carvings, and Caravaggio’s iconic “The Beheading of St. John the Baptist.” Take your time to explore the opulence of this sacred space.

Next, wander down Republic Street, Valletta's main thoroughfare, and take in the lively atmosphere. Stop by a local bakery for a pastizzi, a traditional Maltese pastry filled with ricotta or mushy peas. It's a delicious and inexpensive treat.

From there, head towards the Upper Barrakka Gardens, perched high above the Grand Harbour. The views are stunning, particularly at midday when the Saluting Battery fires its cannons, a tradition that dates back centuries.

In the evening, indulge in a seafood dinner at one of the many restaurants overlooking the Grand Harbour. Try lampuki pie, a Maltese speciality made with lampuki fish, tomatoes, and olives.

After dinner, enjoy a leisurely passeggiata (evening stroll) along the waterfront, taking in the twinkling lights of the surrounding cities.

Saturday: Culture and Coastal Delights

Saturday is all about immersing yourself in the city's culture and enjoying Malta’s scenic coastline. Begin with a visit to the National Museum of Archaeology, housed in the Auberge de Provence. The museum offers a fascinating journey through Malta’s history, from prehistoric times to the Phoenician period.

Next, head to the Casa Rocca Piccola, a stunning 16th-century palazzo still home to a Maltese noble family. Take a guided tour to discover the house’s rich history and admire its impressive collection of art and antiques.

In the afternoon, take a short ferry ride to the Three Cities, Vittoriosa (Birgu), Senglea (Isla), and Cospicua (Bormla). These fortified cities provide a glimpse into Malta’s maritime history, with their narrow, winding streets, historic forts, and picturesque harbours.

Explore the fortifications, enjoy a gelato by the waterfront, and soak in the authentic Maltese atmosphere.

For dinner, step away from the tourist hotspots and try a traditional Maltese restaurant tucked in one of Valletta's charming backstreets. Don’t miss out on rabbit stew (stuffat tal-fenek), a hearty, flavourful dish that is a true Maltese delicacy.

Sunday: Relaxation and Departure

Sunday is your day to relax and soak up the tranquil atmosphere before heading back to Dublin. Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a café overlooking the Grand Harbour, sipping a strong coffee and enjoying a Maltese Ftira, a traditional flatbread sandwich.

Spend the morning browsing the shops along Republic Street for souvenirs or local crafts.

For the afternoon, treat yourself to a spa experience at one of Valletta's luxury hotels or simply relax in the Lower Barrakka Gardens, where you can unwind while taking in panoramic views of the harbour.

Before you head to the airport, grab one final pastizzi and reflect on the rejuvenating weekend you’ve just had. Valletta, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and warm Mediterranean climate, offers the perfect escape from the March gloom. You’ll return to Dublin feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to take on whatever the unpredictable Irish weather throws your way.