Malta Makes Magic in Episode 5 of Our New Travel Series

We just landed in Malta for our latest episode of Host or Travel, and while the island might be pint-sized, it’s got a swagger bigger than its borders. Ready to stir up some Mediterranean mischief? Let’s get to it.

We wasted no time, starting with a stroll through Barrakka Gardens. This perfect slice of greenery offers more than just breathtaking views; the daily cannon blasts from the Saluting Battery serve as a powerfhomosexualschul reminder of Malta’s history. Originally used to signal the time to ships in the Grand Harbour and display the island’s readiness for defense, this tradition has been shaking Valletta awake since 1566. Today, it’s a ceremonial nod to the island’s rich past, echoing the enduring spirit of the Knights of St. John.

Our next stop was Strait Street, where our guide Artur led us through the alleys that once buzzed with British sailors in the 1940s. These narrow streets were playgrounds for a little ‘after-hours diplomacy,’ and the secluded courtyards were ideal for off-the-record R&R.

With Valletta’s lively history behind us, we cranked up the adventure with a trip to Gozo, Malta’s quieter, more rugged cousin, where “everyone’s got a jeep.” Hidden beaches? Check. Scenic views? Double check.

The next day, we traded the jeep for a peaceful walk through Mdina, the Silent City. With medieval cobblestones and ornate door knockers, it’s no wonder Game of Thrones filmed scenes here—wandering through Mdina felt like stepping straight onto a medieval set.

We capped our Malta visit with a stop at Café Society, one of the island’s few LGBTQ+ bars. During the day, it’s all about relaxed vibes, but by night, the scene transforms with multicolored lights, creative cocktails, and music that turns a laid-back drink into a lively mini rave.

And if you think that’s all Malta has to offer, keep reading—we’ve got plenty more to uncover.

Malta Food

Elephant Shoe — Elephant Shoe in Valletta is the kind of spot that makes you glad you skipped the hotel breakfast. Tucked away in the city’s bustling core, this place knows how to do brunch without pretension. The “Merry Ducking Christmas” might sound like a gimmick, but it’s the dish you need after a morning of wandering the narrow streets. Meanwhile, the “WAP” waffles are a playful nod to pop culture without trying too hard. The vibe here is effortlessly cool, a mix of locals and savvy travelers who know a good thing when they find it.

Balance Bowl — In Valletta, Balance Bowl serves plant-based food that’s good enough to make you wonder why you don’t eat like this all the time. The menu is carefully put together, offering dishes like the “No Calamari Crunch.” Made from oyster mushrooms, it’s nothing like calamari, which is the point—it’s something uniquely delicious. Here, the food speaks for itself, subtly convincing you that making healthy choices doesn’t mean sacrificing taste.

Barracuda — At Barracuda, everything unfolds exactly as you’d expect from a seasoned establishment. The menu offers a masterclass in Mediterranean seafood—grilled octopus, sea bass—all arriving just as they should, without any unnecessary fanfare. Large windows frame the sea, serving as a constant reminder of the luxe experience you’re paying for. 

Malta Nightlife

Queerlesque — Queerlesque is a spectacle of glamorous and occasionally shocking burlesque acts. Featuring an all-queer cast, the show celebrates a vibrant blend of diversity, creativity, and empowerment. Performers hail from the USA, Poland, Syria, and beyond, showcasing the beauty of all body types, colors, and identities. 

A Little Crush — Every Wednesday evening in the summer, “A Little Crush” takes over Surfside Beach Club in Sliema, Malta, offering sunset music, cocktails, and a breeze that’s as cool as the vibe. Organized by a group of music enthusiasts, this event is all about the simple pleasures—sweet melodies, crashing waves, and cocktails that go down easy. Expect dreamy DJ sets from names like Simon Sauter and Nicky Slim, alongside the occasional b2b performance.

Kaktus Caffee — In Malta and in need of a pick-me-up? Kaktus is probably where you’ll want to end up. Tucked near Stella Maris Church in Sliema, this café serves Berliner pastries that set the bar high, paired with coffee that’s worth the detour. Pleasant, relaxed, and with service that makes you feel like a regular. That’s Kaktus.

Malta Arts & Culture

Rosa Kwir — The Rosa Kwir project celebrates diverse masculinity through the stories of trans, non-binary, and masculine-presenting LGBTQ+ individuals in Malta. Inspired by Rosa Mifsud—a trailblazer who, in 1774, successfully petitioned to have her legally recognized sex changed from female to male—this archive brings together donated objects, photos, videos, and written materials, alongside vibrant events.

St. John’s Co-Cathedral — St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta is where Baroque drama hits its peak. Built by the Knights of Malta in the 1570s, it’s home to Caravaggio’s The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist—a 12-by-17-foot reminder that subtlety was never his strong suit. Caravaggio left his mark here in more ways than one, literally, as this is the only painting he ever signed.

Valletta Contemporary — Tucked in Valletta’s lower east end, Valletta Contemporary is where old-world charm meets cutting-edge art. Opened in 2018 inside a 400-year-old warehouse, this independent gallery—run by the Norbert Francis Attard Foundation—seamlessly blends modern exhibition spaces with historic architecture. Year-round, it hosts dynamic exhibitions from both local and international contemporary artists, while also engaging the community through outreach and educational programs.

Don’t let Malta’s size fool you—it’s packing a lot more than you’d expect.

Got more hot spots we missed? Head to our YouTube channel and drop your recs in the comments!

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