Secrets of Malta: Insider’s Guide

The insider advice on this page is from two of Wendy’s Trusted Travel Experts for Malta: Jason and Damon Camilleri-Allan of Exclusively Malta.

Trusted Travel Expert

Jason and Damon Camilleri-Allan

From accessing the private quarters of the current resident Knight of Malta to shopping with a famed chef in the local markets, brothers Jason and Damon can unlock doors in Malta that you couldn’t find on your own and probably didn’t even realize exist. Both citizens of Malta (where their mother was born), Damon is based on the islands and Jason lives in Canada—so you can reach one or the other of them at just about any hour of the day or night. They’re equally skilled at making the most of a one-day shore excursion, adding a few nights in Malta onto a trip elsewhere in Europe, or custom-tailoring a weeklong exploration of the islands’ deep history. And they work with a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to locally run boutique properties and classic Mediterranean palazzos that you can have all to yourself (with private maid, butler, and chef service, if you like).

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Trips start at $450 for a shore excursion for two travelers, or $700 per day for a multi-day custom itinerary for two.

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Things to Do and See

Enjoy a private dinner in the gardjola watchtower. Photo: Exclusively Malta

Most underrated place
Gozo Island, which is smaller, quieter, and much more rural than Malta. Many people visit just for a day, but to feel the true essence of Gozo, you need to spend at least one night.

Most overrated place
The Blue Lagoon, off Comino Island. During the warmer months, tourist boats flock there to see the clear waters. Instead, Damon and Jason recommend (and can arrange) a sailboat or luxury yacht to places just as beautiful but without these crowds. If you’re set on the Blue Lagoon, stay on nearby Gozo Island (see “Most Underrated place,” below) and visit early in the morning—or better yet, charter a sailboat or yacht for the night and have the lagoon all to yourself when you wake up.

To have the Blue Lagoon to yourself, charter a sailboat or yacht for the night. Photo: Exclusively Malta

Hidden gem
While many people visit the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, most overlook the public garden with fantastic views that is located across the harbor in the city of Senglea. Its most striking feature is the gardjola watchtower; Damon and Jason can arrange for a private cocktail hour or dinner in the tower.

Cheap thrill
Charter a traditional dghajsa boat to see the Grand Harbour. A 30-minute tour of this historic harbor costs fewer than 50 euros for up to six people.

Take a country stroll, like the relatively short, flat route that takes you from the sleepy village of Qrendi to the Blue Grotto and some ancient temples. Ask about more challenging hiking trails, if that’s what you want.

The Qbajjar Salt Pans on Gozo offer stunning views. Photo: Exclusively Malta

Prime picnic spot
The views are impeccable from the Dingli Cliffs on Malta and the salt pans on Gozo, and there are olive groves on both islands where you can settle in for an al fresco lunch. Jason and Damon frequently plan private, pop-up picnics in quiet spots around the islands, with a casual basket of goodies or a more formal set table and chef-prepared meal.

Bragging rights
The Knights of Malta is a Roman Catholic organization dedicated to charity that has played a role in the country’s heritage since the 16th century. Jason and Damon can introduce you privately to a Knight of this Order—in his enclave atop a storied fort. He can elucidate how the Knights’ history is interwoven with that of Malta and explain their current philanthropic mission.

Jason and Damon are friends with a noble family whose ancestors have lived on Malta since the 17th century—and they will personally welcome you into their 250-year-old home, which is full of remarkable works of art; it’s like stepping into a museum.

Where to Stay and What to Eat

Mdina is Malta’s old capital. Photo: Viewingmalta.com

Best-value splurge hotel
The long-awaited Iniala Harbour House is the most luxurious hotel in Malta—in terms of design, food, and service—with the best address in Valletta and views of the Grand Harbour. Jason and Damon’s travelers receive upgrades when available.

But Malta’s most beautiful and interesting properties are its private countryside villas and city palazzos. Jason and Damon have access to modern, Mediterranean-style villas in the north of the island and centuries-old palazzos (some of which have pools or rooftop hot tubs) in Valletta and the Three Cities.

Valletta, the capital of Malta, is built on ancient walls above the Grand Harbour. Photo: Shutterstock

Best-bang-for-your-buck hotel
The 21-room Cugo Gran Macina, which skillfully works Scandinavian-style minimalist luxury into the bones of a limestone historic landmark. Although it’s located across Grand Harbour from Valletta, Jason and Damon work with boatmen who will privately ferry you to town and back. It’s worth booking a mid-category corner suite for the harbor views from your private terrazzo. Jason and Damon’s  travelers receive upgrades when available.

Restaurant the locals love
Bahia, a restaurant in the charming village of Lija, serves elevated Maltese and Mediterranean cuisine. Grab a Cisk Lager beer with the locals beforehand at the Grasshopper bar next door.

Most villages have a band club, with everyone from the young to the elderly marching in the band during that village’s feast. Stop in at the King’s Own Band Club Bar and Restaurant, just off the main street in Valletta, for a sampling of Maltese delicacies at reasonable prices.

Rogantino’s is a 500-year-old hunting lodge in the middle of a farmer’s field on the outskirts of Rabat. You can eat indoors or out; order the suckling pig.

Pastizzi is a savory filo-dough snack, usually filled with ricotta or mashed peas. Photo: Exclusively Malta

Dish to try
Rabbit is Malta’s national meat. Try it pan-fried, stewed, or in pasta. The Qrendi Bocci Club serves an excellent version, along with other local dishes.

Pastizzi. It’s a savory filo-dough snack, usually filled with ricotta or mashed peas, found all over the island. Try it in a local bar such as the King’s Arms or the ever-popular Is-Serkin, both in Rabat village.

Many restaurants offer a Maltese platter, which showcases local bread, cheese, tomatoes, sausage, pickled vegetables, and more. Choose a restaurant that has its own farm!

Contact Jason and Damon

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