8 days best of Malta guided tour

Exploring Malta: An In-Depth Review of the 8-Day Best of Malta Guided Tour

If you’re dreaming of visiting Malta but dread the thought of planning every detail, this 8-day guided tour might just be your answer. Promising to cover all the must-see spots while taking care of logistics, accommodation, and even some meals, it’s designed for travelers who want to experience Malta without the stress of organizing every step.

We like that this tour offers a balanced mix of guided excursions and free time, allowing you to soak in the sights at your own pace. The inclusion of most entrance fees and some lunches means you won’t be caught off guard by extra costs, which can easily add up elsewhere.

On the flip side, because it’s a group tour with a maximum of 50 people, you might find that some moments are a little rushed or crowded, especially at popular sites. But if you prefer a structured way to see Malta with knowledgeable guides, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s best suited for travelers who want a rundown of Malta’s historic spots and stunning scenery, all bundled into a convenient, well-organized package.

Key Points

• All-inclusive sightseeing with most entrance fees covered simplifies your experience.
• Balanced schedule offers guided tours combined with free time for independent exploration.
• Cultural and historic highlights like Mdina, Valletta, and Ggantija provide deep insight into Maltese heritage.
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicles ensures smooth transitions between sites.
• Great value for the price given the extensive itinerary, guided expertise, and included meals and entrances.
• Group size up to 50 travelers strikes a balance between socializing and comfort.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This 8-day tour offers a comprehensive dive into Malta’s diverse attractions, perfect for travelers who’d rather not worry about logistics. It’s designed to make your trip as smooth and immersive as possible, with a clear emphasis on experiencing the best of Malta while enjoying some comforts along the way.

The value here lies in the combination of guided excursions, included entrance fees, and some meals, all wrapped into a single, predictable price. For around $750, you get a well-rounded experience covering everything from ancient temples to lively harbors.

Plus, the small group setting encourages interaction without feeling too crowded. The transportation is air-conditioned, which makes traveling between sites comfortable, even during the warmer months.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Arrival and First Impressions in Malta

Your journey begins with a smooth transfer from Malta International Airport to your hotel. The included pickup means no fuss, just a warm welcome and the beginning of your Maltese adventure. Your hotel accommodation is on a bed-and-breakfast basis, providing a comfortable base to start each day.

Valletta: The Heart of Maltese Culture

The half-day guided tour of Valletta is a perfect introduction to the island’s capital. Walking through its lively streets, you’ll see the blend of historic fortifications, baroque architecture, and bustling cafes. The highlight here is the Upper Barrakka Gardens, where you’ll get a panoramic view of the Grand Harbour—arguably one of the most stunning vistas Malta offers.

Next, the visit to St. John’s Co-Cathedral is a must. Its ornate interior, housing masterpieces by Caravaggio and Flemish tapestries, truly showcases Malta’s artistic treasures. The church museum adds context to this religious site, making it more than just a pretty building.

The Malta Experience audiovisual show is a clever way to bring history alive. It’s a 45-minute presentation that covers Malta’s past, from ancient times to modern days, and allows you to understand the significance of what you see around you.

Mdina and Rabat: Medieval Charm and Early Christian Sites

A full day is dedicated to exploring Mdina, Malta’s ancient capital. The narrow, winding streets resist modern traffic and evoke a sense of stepping back in time. The guided walk here reveals the city’s fortifications, palaces, and historic charm.

In Rabat, the St. Cataldus Catacombs offer a peek into early Christian burial practices. The underground tunnels, dating back centuries, are both atmospheric and educational, offering insight into Malta’s religious history.

Natural Wonders and Panoramic Views

The Dingli Cliffs provide breathtaking photo opportunities, with sheer drops over the sea and sweeping vistas. The Gardjola Gardens at Senglea offer a 360° view of the Grand Harbour from a strategic vantage point, perfect for snapping memorable photos.

Exploring the Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Cospicua, and Senglea

Half a day is spent on a guided tour through these historic harbors, known as the Three Cities. Vittoriosa (or Birgu) is particularly charming with its narrow streets and historic fortifications. The Senglea Gardens further enhance the experience, with views of Fort Sant Angelo and the bustling harbor below.

Gozo: Malta’s Quieter Sister Island

The trip to Gozo is a highlight, offering a contrast to the busier main island. The ferry crossing takes about 20 minutes, giving travelers a chance to relax and enjoy the sea breeze. Once on Gozitan soil, the emphasis is on natural beauty and ancient monuments.

The Ggantija Temples, dating back over 5,500 years, are among the oldest free-standing structures in the world—prehistoric marvels that predate the pyramids. Walking around these megalithic ruins, you’ll understand why Gozitans are proud of their archaeological heritage.

The Citadel in Victoria offers panoramic views of the island, and the quaint village of Xlendi is perfect for a seaside stroll or a coffee break by the water. The Dwejra Bay adds a dramatic touch with its rugged coastline and coastline rock formations.

Additional Sites and Optional Activities

The Limestone Heritage Park & Gardens lets you see Malta’s quarrying history firsthand, transforming a working quarry into an educational attraction. The Hagar Qim & Mnajdra Archaeological Parks are UNESCO-listed Megalithic Temples, offering a window into Malta’s prehistoric past.

A boat trip to the Blue Grotto from Wied iz-Zurrieq is available, weather permitting, providing a chance to see Malta’s famous sea caves. The Marsaxlokk fishing village, with its colorful luzzu boats and lively market, rounds out your experience with local flavor.

Flexibility and Free Time

While the itinerary is packed, there’s also a full day at leisure on the last day, giving you freedom to relax or explore independently. You might opt for a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon or simply enjoy your hotel’s amenities.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers praise this tour for stunning views and delicious food. One reviewer mentioned that their agent helped secure hard-to-get tickets to the Hypogeum, indicating the value of having local assistance. The included lunches and entrance fees took much of the hassle out of the trip, making it easier to focus on enjoying Malta’s sights.

Some note that the group size can be up to 50, which is a good balance—enough to meet fellow travelers but not so many that you feel lost in the crowd. The tour’s overall rating is a perfect 5 stars, reflecting satisfaction with the thoroughness and organization.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The price of approximately $750 per person is reasonable given the extensive itinerary, guided expertise, and included essentials like entrances and some meals. The tour’s duration of 8 days ensures you’re not rushing through sites but instead have time to absorb each one.

Transportation is air-conditioned, making travel comfortable even during Malta’s warm summers. Pickup and drop-off from Malta International Airport streamline your arrival and departure. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most activities being accessible and easy to follow.

The tour offers flexibility to upgrade or add extra nights, which is perfect if you want to extend your stay or indulge in a more luxurious experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour

This guided tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized experience without the hassle of planning. It suits those interested in history, culture, and scenic views, with enough free time to explore independently.

Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the value of including many entrance fees and some meals in the package. Those who prefer a small to medium group setting will find the tour manageable and engaging.

If you’re looking for a balance of guided discovery and personal exploration in Malta, this tour offers a practical way to see the island’s highlights comfortably and efficiently.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 days, covering a wide range of sites across Malta and Gozo.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers hotel accommodation on a bed-and-breakfast basis, airport transfers, transportation, most guided excursions, entrance fees, and three meals as stated.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, most site entrances like St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Mdina, Ggantija Temples, and others are included. Some optional activities, like the Blue Grotto boat trip, are not.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is about 50, which allows for a more personal experience without feeling too crowded.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, all transportation is in air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring a comfortable ride between sites.

Can I customize or extend the tour?
Yes, you can add extra nights, upgrade your room, or include additional meals for an extra cost.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should review specific site access details.

How do I get to Malta for the tour?
The tour includes pickup from Malta International Airport, making arrivals and departures straightforward.

What about free time?
There’s a full day at leisure near the end of the trip, giving you time to relax or explore independently.

What do reviewers say?
Travelers rate this tour highly, praising its organization, the stunning views, and the delicious meals included.

To sum it up, this 8-day guided tour of Malta offers a well-balanced mix of guided sightseeing, cultural exploration, and personal downtime. It’s a smart choice for those who want to experience Malta’s most iconic sites without the hassle of planning or navigating on their own. Whether you’re interested in ancient temples, scenic harbors, or seaside villages, this tour provides a comprehensive, value-packed way to fall in love with Malta.