Experience Overview
Malta may be one of the world’s smallest countries, but it’s big on ancient history, natural beauty and vibrant culture. Uncover the highlights and hidden treasures of Malta and Gozo on this seven-day adventure with an expert leader to help you see the country through the eyes of a local. Discover what makes Valletta so special during an in-depth walking tour, go back in time at the ancient site of Hagar Qim and learn about a local trade at the Xwejni Salt Pans. Ferry across to neighbouring Gozo and hike along the coastline, then kayak across the water to Comino Island. One thing’s for sure – big things come in small packages.
Highlights
- Meet a local family at the Xwejni Salt Pans, which have been in use since Roman times, and discover how they have been harvesting salt here for over 160 years.
- Get to know Gozo from the water during a kayak excursion, where you’ll visit Comino Island and stop off at the aptly named Blue Lagoon for a swim.
- Learn about Valletta – one of the smallest European capitals that’s packed with a wealth of historical landmarks – during a walking tour where you’ll explore historic districts like Senglea, Cospicua and Vittoriosa.
- Experience Malta’s history at the Hagar Qim Archaeological Site. Dating back as far as 3600 BC, this is one of the oldest religious sites in the world.
- Explore the fortified city of Victoria, Gozo’s capital, with visits to the medieval citadel, the Gozo Museum of Archaeology, Gran Castello Historic House and the Gozo Nature Museum. m.
Trip Details
Product Code: 3188
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Local bus,Ferry,Boat,Private vehicle
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: ZLSM
Starts: Valletta, Malta
Finishes: Valletta, Malta
Duration: 7 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating: Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (6), Lunch (1),Accommodation: Hotel (6 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 3065 (CAD 438 /day)
Itinerary
Merhba! Welcome to Malta. Your adventure starts in Valletta – this little Mediterranean island packs a real punch when it comes to historical sights and attractions. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight at your hotel, where you’ll meet your local leader and the other members of your group. If you arrive early, you may like to visit the National Museum of Archaeology or take a stroll along the restaurant-lined waterfront. After your meeting, why not get to know your group over dinner in town – your leader will be able to recommend some great spots. Aljotta (fish soup) and gbejniet (Maltese cheese) are particularly delicious!
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, head out on a leader-led walking tour of Valletta. Stop by a traditional cafe to sample some tasty Maltese pour-over coffee. Once you’re energised, make your way to the St. John's Co-Cathedral to learn about the city’s fascinating connection to the Order of the Knights of St. John. Then, swing by the Upper Barrakka Gardens – a public space with a history stretching back to the 16th century. From the gardens, ride a large elevator down to the Grand Harbour – taking in the views as you descend – and hop aboard a ferry to explore the rest of the city. Take a step back in time as you walk the winding streets and find remnants of Malta’s turbulent past, before returning to Valletta to enjoy the rest of the afternoon as you wish.
Included Activities:
- Valletta - Visit to St John's Co-Cathedral
- Valletta - City Walking Tour Leader led
- Valletta - Traditional Maltese Pour-Over Coffee at Local Cafe
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Get to know more of Malta today on a daytrip around the island. Stop in the fishing town of Marsaxlokk first to check out the local market and the colourful fishing boats. Then, continue to the archaeological site of Hagar Qim – it’s one of the world’s oldest religious sites, dating as far back as 3600 BC, exploring the remains of the ancient temple. After building up an appetite, head to a local restaurant housed in an 18th-century Baroque building, renowned for its local ingredients, for an authentic farm-to-table experience. Your next stop is the fortified city of Mdina, where your leader will explain centuries of Phoenician, Roman, Byzantine and Arab history. Since it served as the island’s capital until the medieval period, there’s lots to learn as you walk around the walls. Continue to Cirkewwa and board a ferry bound for Mgarr – a harbour town on the neighbouring island of Gozo. You’ll then hop on a private transport to Marsalforn, your final destination for the day and your base for your time in Gozo. This evening, take a well-deserved break and soak up the laidback atmosphere of this seaside resort town.
Included Activities:
- Marsaxlokk - Town & Harbour Visit
- Malta - Island Highlights Tour
- Mdina - Town Visit
- Hagar Qim - Archaeological Site Visit
- Mdina - Lunch at Local Restaurant
- Malta - Blue Grotto boat trip
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning head to Gozo’s capital – Victoria – and explore the ancient citadel, as well as some of the town’s museums, including the Gozo Museum of Archaeology, Gran Castello Historic House and Gozo Nature Museum. Later, continue your day with a coastal hike from Xlendi to the Ta Cenc Cliffs. The trail runs close to the cliff’s edge, giving you unparalleled views of the Mediterranean. As you near the end, follow a country road to a little town called Sannat and refuel with a pastry from a local bakery.
This evening is free to enjoy some of the local restaurants and bars of Marsalforn.
Included Activities:
- Gozo - Xlendi Coastal Cliff Hike
- Gozo - Village Bakery Visit & Snack
- Victoria - Citadel walking tour and museums visit
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, walk to the Salt Pans in Xwejni, which date back to Roman times. Learn how the land is designed to extract salt from saltwater from a local family who has been harvesting from these pans for over 150 years. In summer, you might even witness the harvesting for yourself! After, embark on a hike along Gozo’s North coast to Wied il-Ghasri, known for its high cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Cool down with a swim in a secluded inlet before returning to Marsalforn. Later it is time to visit a family run local winery where you will taste some of the local wines. Tonight, don’t forget to ask your leader for recommendations on the best bars and restaurants in the area.
Included Activities:
- Gozo - Xwejni Salt Pans Visit
- Gozo - Wied al-Ghasri Coastal Hike
- Gozo - Local winery visit & wine tasting
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
The day is yours to discover more of what Gozo has to offer. With something to suit every interest, be sure to ask your local leader for tips on how to get the most out of your free time. You may like to head to one of the island’s beautiful beaches, stretch out with a good book, or cool down with frequent dips in the Mediterranean. Or, if you prefer to stay active, you could hike to more ancient ruins and medieval villages. However you decide to spend your time here, it’s sure to be a day to remember! In the afternoon, get back together with your group to bid farewell to Gozo and take a ferry back to Valletta. Upon arrival, perhaps go out with your fellow travelers for one last dinner together.
Optional Activities:
- Comino Island - Kayaking Excursion & Visit to Blue Lagoon (47 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
With no activities planned, your adventure comes to an end after breakfast today. If you’d like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Chloe - Traveled, October 2023
An enjoyable short break in beautiful Malta, a suprising jewel in the Mediterranean. The trip has a good balance of history and culture and relaxation. Warm weather, good food and beautiful scenery in every direction. Will definitely return one day.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/24/2023
David - Traveled, September 2023
Intrepid offered me a great introduction to the country of Malta. Will definitely be returning. Great tour guide and great travellers. Will be using them for my future travels.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/09/2023
Diane - Traveled, September 2023
What an excellent trip! Whether during included activities or on our own time, it was just the right mix of historical and cultural elements, as well as time spent doors and on the beach. Our trip leader Sarah was fantastic - friendly, organized, helpful, and took care of our tiny group. (Also extra thanks to our city tour guide Mario - the perfect blend of informative and entertaining!) The included transportation (both on land and water) made it relatively easy to get around. Would definitely recommend Malta & Gozo as a destination to consider.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/09/2023
Sairus - Traveled, August 2023
I had a great time on this tour. Our leader, Jacopo (or "Jacob"), was brilliant. He managed everything well, very approachable and a general all round good person who loves to entertain! The tour was a good mix of historical, cultural and relaxation. Nothing seemed rushed and I have a stronger knowledge of Malta thanks to this tour (Tracy was an amazing guide as well!). Highlights were learning about the history of Valletta and Malta in general, swimming in the Blue Lagoon (optional activity) and of course spending time the wonderful group. Highly recommend if you want a mix of cultural and beach/swimming type of holiday.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/14/2023
daniel - Traveled, August 2023
Do it! It's worth it!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/14/2023
Kimberley - Traveled, July 2023
A great way to see the best of Malta and Gozo with travel companions. Nice hotels, and enough spare time to relax as well as seeing all the sights
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/29/2023
Carol - Traveled, June 2023
Highlights of Malta and Gozo, led by Serena, in June, was a wonderful trip teaching and showing the amazing history and geography of this beautiful, friendly country.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/18/2023
William - Traveled, May 2023
Although this trip could easily be done solo and really enjoyed the company of likeminded travellers and not having to worry about queuing for the various attractions was a definite positive
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/05/2023
Marc - Traveled, May 2023
The Trip "Malta and Gozo" was a very good one. We had great travel colleagues,a good tour director, and an incredibly beautiful location of tremendous historical background.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/08/2023
Lance - Traveled, May 2023
With our guide Matteo he have us an insight into everything Malta that we would never have experienced without great research. A wonderful trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/20/2023
Jenny - Traveled, May 2023
For such a small island, this has so much history, which was explained in great detail by our leader. Matteo had so much knowledge and engaged with each one with their questions and assistance when required. He was always polite and patient, and it was a pleasure to do the trip with him. Malta and goes I wear full of surprises and when the trip finished and you felt you wanted to stay on and learn more because of the information given.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/20/2023
Lesley - Traveled, April 2023
This trip was such a wonderful experience. Our Tour Leader was so knowledgeable & very helpful. I’d go back if there wasn’t other places I want to visit first..
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/22/2023
Vickie - Traveled, October 2022
The Malta Gozo trip was fun, educational and a complete joy to participate in. Matteo, our group leader, was knowledgeable and informative and very organized. I would highly recommend this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/22/2022
Justin - Traveled, August 2022
Malta and Gozo were beautiful. Our group leader Matteo was amazing. So friendly, accommodating and happy! Would recommend this trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/03/2022
Jacinta - Traveled, August 2022
Malta and Gozo. Great destination for snorkelling, diving and eating Italian food. This to tour is a hidden gem and won’t disappoint. Highly recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/03/2022
Helen - Traveled, August 2022
This trip is a great way to enjoy Malta and Gozo. From the historic and religious sites of Valletta, to the wineries and hidden beaches of Gozo this trip covers it all. The trip packs a lot in but the size of the country means everything is at a relaxed pace and there is plenty of time to just swim in the beautiful Mediterranean!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/18/2022
Claudette - Traveled, July 2022
The Highlights of Malta and Gozo were just that - a taste of what these islands have to offer. Our group leader was very capable, patient and good humoured and we successfully navigated public transport with his guidance. It was a true local experience in a wonderfully welcoming nation.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/27/2022
Alistair - Traveled, July 2022
Interesting, informative, fun and well organised: we enjoyed our holiday on Malta and Gozo and especially appreciate the expertise of the group leader
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/27/2022
VAL - Traveled, July 2022
Fantastic trip with an even better group of travelers. Our leader. Sergi was amazing and he clearly loves his job. He offered flexibility and options for us, even made modifications to further enhance the itinerary. His public transportation skills are remarkable, timing impeccable. Short but fully packed Mediterranean getaway. I knew Malta would be special and this trip certainly did not disappoint.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/15/2022
Sarah - Traveled, July 2022
This was a short but excellent trip. The itinerary covers multiple activities, from city walks, visits to historical sites, ferry rides, coastal hikes and wine tasting with enough free time to relax, go swimming, shopping or undertake your own excursions. Our leader Sergi was excellent! Overall I would highly recommend this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/29/2022
Manon - Traveled, June 2022
Malta is a country to discover and this tour gets to the heart of the matter, efficiently and with great enthusiasm. I recommend it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/22/2022
Sheri - Traveled, June 2022
To Truley visit a destination you have to be emersed into the culture a bit and that is what small group travel with Intrepid does best!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/08/2022
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