Nearby Attractions
There are so many fantastic things to do and see in Malta.....
Here are just a handful of things that are available and on offer. Malta's night-life is as hot and bustling as the Island's temperature . Similarly if your looking a ‘ Relaxation ‘ Holiday- then Malta will be right up your street.
Bugibba Water Park
Bugibba Waterpark is a new FREE attraction in the heart of Bugibba. It is ideal for children as it includes a number of fun and exciting features, such as water loops, water umbrellas, parasols, a bucket tower, a palm spring and two water cannons.
Open between June and September from 10:00 to 19:00 hours. So for some exciting and refreshing fun, get your kids and head down to the Bugibba Waterpark and watch them splash water all around.
http://www.malta.com/en/attraction/leisure-activities/amusement-parks/bugibba/bugibba-waterpark
GET THERE: 10 minute walk from apartment to Bugibba Promenade
Popeye's Village
The original film set of the musical production Popeye is surely a must on your what to do list in Malta. This is a great place to take your kids to meet world famous cartoon characters , explore the village or take part in some filming. Popeye village is situated just off Mellieha Bay, so its an excellent place to visit before, after, or whilst spending the day at the numerous beaches and coves around the area or just next door at the enclosed Anchor Bay.
GET THERE: No: 221 from Bugibba Bus Station
The Blue Lagoon and Comino
Situated between Malta and Gozo, the smaller island of Comino is a paradise for snorkelers , divers , windsurfers and ramblers. The island's main attraction is the magical Blue Lagoon, with its crystal clear waters being a must do whilst in Malta . A truly relaxing day trip for all ages , where you can experience Malta's treasured sea in one memorable day and spend the afternoon swimming, sunbathing or exploring the sandy beach ashore this unique island.
Various cruise companies do great value excursions to the Blue Logoon ranging from small authentic chartered cruises to larger more all inclusive cruises which usually include an all inclusive buffet lunch with wine,beer,water and soft drinks- so there is something from everybody.
There are various outlets to purchase tickets and various direct sellers on the Bugibba Promenade- so be sure to shop around.
Valletta
The Capital City of Malta - Valletta is abundantly rich in sites to see and explore with intriguing historical buildings around every corner, votive statues, niches, fountains and coats of arms high up on parapets. One of the more popular ways to explore the City is via the Segway Tours.
Another way to get around and see the most of Valletta is on foot and although the things to do and see are many, a good start and definitely not to be missed are Valletta's beautiful gardens. The Upper Barrakka Gardens, Hastings Gardens & the Lower Barrakka Gardens are just three of the most popular sites, however on further exploration many more hidden gardens can be discovered. From the Upper Barrakka Gardens it is possible to see the Saluting Battery - a canon which is fired daily at 1200 and 1600 hours. Also be sure to take the lift down to the bastions to sea level.
The National War Museum , Saluting Battery ( with guided tour ) , Lascaris War Rooms ( with guided tour ) , the three cities cruise/boat trips and St John's co-Cathedral & Museum are also definitely not to be missed.
GET THERE: No: 31 & 45 buses ( slower bus 212 via Silema) from Buggiba Bus Station. Boat trips available from Silema to the capital.
Paceville/St Julians ( Nightlife)
Paceville is one of Malta’s most exciting towns, as it is literally dotted with bars, clubs, discos, casinos, gentlemen’s clubs, cinemas and so much more. Most of the clubs in Paceville are free entrance and are usually open till the early hours of the morning.So if you want to taste Malta’s nightlife, be sure to take a trip to Paceville and wander around the town in order to find the perfect club that will keep you dancing all night.
During daytime hours St Julians and the neigbhouring town of Silema are hot spots for shopping, dinning and business activity.
GET THERE : No 212 Bus from Bugibba Bus Station , with Night Buses on Friday and Saturday's and late evening and early morning buses ( 0500 hrs ) for all other days- Click here for Bus Timetables
Private mini buses run during certain months to cover the Sat night into Sunday morning period when buses dont run. These are usually €3.
Golden Bay Beach
Golden Bay is one of Malta's most popular sandy beaches. Despite this accolade, it is set among countryside and is relatively undeveloped. It has easy access making it Golden Bay suitable for the less mobile or those with small children.Golden Bay has the facilities you need for the day - a cafe-restaurant, sun lounger and umbrella hire, and plenty of fun water sports from jet skiing and paragliding to banana boat rides. The atmosphere here is both chic and family fun. As the second largest sandy beach in Malta, there is usually room for games. The spectacular sunsets here have made the beach a popular spot for evening barbecues.
GET THERE: Bus No : 223 from Bugibba Bus Station
Splash and Fun Water Park
A visit to Splash and Fun promises to be a great day out, whether you’re feeling wild and adventurous or just want to lie back and relax. Splash and Fun Water Park offers a unique experience for people of all ages, no matter your taste. There is a choice of half or full day tickets- half day is usually sufficent but this is down to personal choice.
https://www.splashandfunmalta.com/
Mediterraneo Marine Park
Mediterraneo Marine Park is a place where a marine lover’s wishes come true. Mediterraneo Marine Park is a great way for adults and children to learn about marine life. Visitors may tour the park to catch a glimpse of its many exhibited species including dolphins, sea lions, parrots, Green Wing Amazons, snakes, tortoises, turtles, frogs, toads, spiders, scorpions and lizards. There are also a number of shows performed during the day by dolphins, sea lions and parrots.
http://www.mediterraneopark.com
GET THERE : No 212 Bus from Buggiba Bus Station
National Aquarium
Situatated on the promenade between Bugibba and Qawra, the National Aquarium is in walking distance from A Place in the Sun. The public aquarium has twenty six tanks including a walk-through tunnel for adults and another one specially designed for children. The themeing of the aquarium showcases Malta’s rich natural and cultural heritage including replicas of a submarine, a World War II bomber, Fortifications and others. The Malta National Aquarium Complex has two restaurants serving food prepared by award winning chefs.
There is also a free child's park right next to the Aquarium.
GET THERE :10 minutes walk from apartment to Promenade inbetween Buggiba and Qawra
Bugibba Square
Bay Square, referred to as the Square or Bugibba Square is a hive of activity with a multitude of cocktail and karaoke bars , restaurants and plenty of souvenir shops .
The streets surrounding the Square are busy during daytime hours and even more busier during the late evening into the night- like in most Mediterranean countries expect to see young families and children out in the Square up until midnight with the Square being a family friendly environment.
GET THERE : 5 minute walk from apartment
Mosta
A large town in central Malta, Mosta is connected with several local popular legends. The town is surrounded by many historical places of interest, including the Victoria Lines, which were built by the British Empire as a defense mechanism against land invasion from the North.
It boasts the third largest unsupported dome in the world dedicated to the Assumption. The church, best known as the Rotunda of St Marija Assunta, was nearly destroyed during World War II when a German Luftwaffe bomb hit the dome of the church but failed to explode. Another two bombs also bounced off the dome and ended in the square without exploding either. A replica bomb has now been installed in the church as a memorial to the event.
GET THERE : No: 31 Bus from Buggiba Bus Station
Religious Festas
Feast days are the life of the Islands and some holy days are actually national holidays, such as the feast of Santa Marija in mid-August. Others, such as the harvest festival of Mnarja at the end of June, are steeped in folklore. However, the most important events to all villages are their individual festas, honouring their parish patron saint.
The festa season in Malta is made up of a long series of extended weekends, starting from the end of May right through the entire summer and well into September. During this period, there is hardly any weekend when a town or a village is not celebrating the feast of its patron saint or other saints revered in different churches.Visitors are welcomed and these events are not to be missed.
CALENDAR OF FESTA DAYS-
http://www.visitmalta.com/en/search-events?pg=1&type=115
Amazonia Pool
If you fancy something different from the beach then Amazonia Pool is the place for you. With its infinity swimming pool giving the impression of the water flowing over the edge with no boundary, its sun lounges which sit right on the sea front , to its four poster beds which are great for lounging around in the sun, make it ideal for those after a relaxing and luxurious day . Amazonia’s prime location makes it perfect for a clean ( sand free) day out swimming in both pool and sea and with its entertaining spaces for dining and cocktails, showers and water sports available make it a day out for everybody.
http://www.dolmen.com.mt/the-dolmen-experience/beach-pools/amazonia-lido.aspx
GET THERE : 5/10 minutes from Apartment to Bugibba Promenade
Playmobil Funpark
The Playmobil FunPark is an excellent way to keep the little ones occupied. The park is divided into six play areas based on age and interest. There's an area for older kids that has Police cars, helicopters, fire trucks, etc and an outdoor area with additional games including slides, large animal props for picture taking , a sandlot with slide, and a small pool structure that has toys and boats in the water for kids to play with.
The factory tour lasts 45 minutes and is well worth it for anyone above the age of 5 years. There is also a shop where you can get some amazing Playmobil deals.
Entry into the park is extremley reasonable at Adults -€1.20 but free after 13:00hrs and Children (1-12 years) €2.40.
GET THERE : No: X3 or TD3 Bus from Bugibba Bus Station to the airport , then X4 from the airport to Hal Far bus stop .
Mellieha Bay
Mellieha Bay, also known as Ghadira Bay, is the largest and one of the most beautiful and popular sandy beach in Malta located in the northern part of the Island, just off the town of Mellieha. The shallow water that is ankle deep for about 50 metres out to sea and easy accessibility is what makes the beach one of the most family friendly beaches in Malta.
Mellieha Bay has endless activities to choose from like windsurfing, kite surfing, canoeing, water-skiing, and even a blow up water platform for the children out in the sea, something to keep bathers happy for hours.
Mellieha Bay is in fact divided into three beaches separated by short rocky sections and one can choose from staying on the calmer side or on the more lively and active part.
Mellieha Bay does not have any underwater currents and hardly ever experiences rough seas, making the Bay ideal and safe for children. Across the road from Mellieha Bay is Ghadira Nature Reserve, which is home to a variety of small mammals and reptiles and a stopover for migratory birds passing over Malta.
GET THERE: Bus No 49 or 221 from Bugibba Bus Station
The Blue Grotto
The Blue Grotto (Maltese: Taħt il-Ħnejja) with its amazing views is a tourist attraction that should not be missed. Swimming there is an adventure but you can also go for a boat ride which takes you inside the grotto - where you can see orange and purple corals in crystal clear waters- the sights are brilliant and beautiful.
Every day from sunrise until about 1 pm a unique sight can be observed here. The location of the caves combined with the sunlight causes numerous shades of blue- hence its name.
GET THERE : No:X3 or TD3 Bus from Bugibba Bus Station to the airport , then the No: 201 Bus to Blue Grotto
Golden Bay Horse Riding
For those looking to have a unforgettable experience , this may be the perfect excursion for you.
Choose from either a 90 minute coastal sunset horse ride, taking you along the coast and golden cliffs of Malta- overlooking Gozo and the panoramic scenes of the Crystal Clear legendary Mediterranean Sea for €45 per person or a 60 minute horse ride which takes you across country tracks , a historic nature park and along the cliff tops overlooking two of Malta’s most popular beaches for €30 per person.
Both offers include a refund of your public transport ticket if booked through the website.
GET THERE: Bus No : 223 from Bugibba Bus Station
Bays and Beaches in Malta
The Maltese islands are blessed with some of the cleanest and most scenic beaches in Europe. Due to its Mediterranean demeanour Malta sports more rocky beaches than sandy ones but beauitful sandy beaches have been made over recent years-
St Geroges Bay
This beauitful little bay although small in size, is in an ideal location- 2/5 minutes walking distance from bars , restaurants and a shopping complex- Bay Street.
Sitting just outside St Julians , this bay is perfect for those wanting to squeeze a bit of Sun into their day , after or before spending a busy day in St Julians/Silema.
GET THERE : No:212 Bus from Bugibba Bus Station to the St Julians , then 5 minute walk.
Pretty Bay
One of very few beaches located in the Southern region of Malta, in Birzebbugia, this beach has both a rocky area as well as a sandy area. Located in a small and quaint seaside resort, the beach is popular for a myriad of reasons. The beach is deep and wide enough to accommodate both families looking for a peaceful time as well as for youths looking to boost their energy levels at some beach sports activities.
Gazebos, a football pitch and a playground are also available at this bay. One advantage to this area if you prefer quieter escapes to the beach, is that it is quite far from tourist areas and is mostly frequented by locals. The beach is on the other side the island so if your using public transport then it may be worth coupling this with another attraction over that side of the Island.
GET THERE: Bus No: X3 or TD3 from Bugibba Bus Station to airport, then X4 from airport to Birzebbugia.
St Peter's Pool
This natural swimming pool with crystal clear blue-green waters is ideal for snorkelers and swimmers wishing to spend a peaceful and relaxing day in the sun but at the same time try something different. St. Peter’s Pool is not the easiest place to find but it is on the way to Marsaxlokk Bay. Located in a small bay on the Delimara peninsula, St. Peter’s Pool is just off the tall chimney tower next to Marsaxlokk Bay and is known for its ideal location for diving.
GET THERE : Bus No: 427 or 627 from Bugibba Bus Station.
St Paul's Bay/Qawra/Bugibba Beaches
Buġibba and Qawra are Malta's largest, seaside resort towns. The coastline promenade stretches from Salina Bay to St. Paul's Bay, taking in some of the Islands' best open sea views and a vista over to St. Paul's Island.Throughout the promendate you can find rocky,smooth and small sandy beaches-all within 5/10 minutes from the apartment.
The water is deep, but generally clean, clear and safe for bathing. The Qawra promontory to the northwest has been developed into a distinct resort with hotels along the coastline and numerous holiday apartments just inland. Salina Bay takes its name from the salt pans cut in inner segment of this sea inlet. The water on both verges of the bay is not deep but is quite suitable for swimming off the rocks. These beaches are very popular throughout the summer.
GET THERE: 5/10 minutes walk from apartment .
Chadwick Lakes: Walk in Malta
Situated inbetween Rabat and Mtarfa this oasis of serene fresh water presents a perfect day of walking and trekking. The lakes form a miniature ecosystem which cradle a delicae habitat for various flora and fauna. Water constantly flows eastwards towards Mosta through a series of man-made structures.
A popular countryside-walking trek to be considered in the area is one which departs from Rabat and ends in Mosta with Chadwick Lakes being the central part of the walk. The curved walking path is around eight kilometers in length and is a beautiful meditative walk when the Willow and Water Cress are in full bloom. Take time to look out for tadpoles and lake fish which are common in Chadwick Lakes.
You can also find a large amount of rambling and walking societies in Malta, which will organize regular walks in this area. These walks are generally led by an experienced guide who will point out specific geology in the area, locations of historical interest, unusual aromatic herbs and garrigue plants.
GET THERE : No:X3 or TD3 Bus from Bugibba Bus Station to the Rabat , then a 9 minute walk to Chadwick lakes.
www.airmalta.com/destinations/malta/best-of-malta/walking-and-trekking
Rabat and Mdina ( Silent Cities )
The neighboring towns of Rabat and Mdina can both be seen in the same day.Rabat is less touristy and more of a real working city than Mdina but still has historical attractions.
Rabat
Rabat is a town in the Northern Region of Malta. The name of the town is derived from the Arabic word for 'suburb': الرباط, as it was the suburb of the old capital Mdina.One of the hidden gems in Rabat is the Casa Bernard, a grand 16th-century palazzo that belonged to a noble Maltese family of French origins.
For those interested in the classical period, the Roman Villa is definitely worth visiting. This archaeological site, also called Domus Romana, features astounding 1st-century BC Roman mosaics.In addition Wignacourt Museum displays an extensive collection of Punic-Roman artifacts and is a must do for those into history.
Rabat has some stunning gardens and is at one of the highest points in Malta, therefore it boasts some amazing views.
Mdina
The history of Mdina traces back more than 4000 years. According to tradition it was here that in 60 A.D. that the Apostle St. Paul is said to have lived after being shipwrecked on the Islands.Tourists must pass through the dramatic Main Gate to enter the city, giving the impression of walking back in time.The most important site is the Cathedral of Saint Paul, a glorious Baroque building designed by the Maltese architect Lorenzo Gafa. The lavishly decorated sanctuary features a magnificent dome, marble columns, gilded details, and gorgeous ceiling paintings. The cathedral possesses a precious 12th-century icon of the Madonna and renowned works of art by celebrated Maltese painterMattia Preti.Tourists should also visit the grandiose historic palaces. ThePalazzo Santa Sofia (Villegaignon Street near Bastion Square) is Mdina's best preserved medieval building. The Palazzo Vilhena (Saint Publius Square) is a gorgeous monument that houses Malta's superb Natural History Museum. Another must-see sight is the Palazzo Falson(Villegaignon Street) a 13th-century palace that belonged to a Maltese noble family. Now a museum, the Palazzo Falson is exquisitely decorated in the original style and has an excellent art and antiquities collection.
There are also other attractions in Mdina/Rabat -
The Knights of Malta and The Mdina Experience and the tourist train lasting 25/30 minutes , travelling through Rabat,Mdina and Imtarfa.
GET THERE: Bus No : X3 or TD3 from Bugibba Bus Station.
Pirtate Boat Party
Experience the best of Malta’s vibrant night scene on the Fernandes 2. This Lazy Pirate Boat Party will be a night to remember. The boat departs from Sliema at 18:30 hours and cruises towards Comino and into the sun setting . Arrive at the Blue Lagoon just as night falls and the music gets louder! Stop in Comino for 2 hours and take time for a moonlight swim. Party on until the boat returns to Sliema at around midnight. Throughout the party you’ll drink from an open bar ( free drinks) stocked with vodka, tequila, whiskey, rum, beer, wine, and sangria. Drink as much as you like and enjoy the complimentary snacks and fruit.
GET THERE : Bus No :212 from Bugibba Bus Station.
Sightseeing Flights
This is a fantastic way to see Malta and Gozo from the air.
Enjoy the true wonder of the Maltese archipelago with a birds eye view. Sightseeing flights of various durations are available both during day and night. So make it possible to discover the beauty of the islands combined with excitement of flying in a light air craft.
A must do and likely to be the highlight of your holiday.
Silema
Sliema is one of the main coastal resorts in Malta. If you like sightseeing - combined with sports, good food and shopping then Sliema fits the bill.
This busy town boasts a broad promenade with views of Valletta - fronted with flat, rocky and some sandy beaches with water sports and two swimming pool lidos. Besides hotel pools and sun terraces the golden flat rocks are popular with sun worshippers.
Silema is known as the shopping Capital for Malta. It boasts two shopping centres
as well as all the greats such as Zara, Next, Topshop, BSH ,Footlocker etc. Also look out for Maltese lace, fine silverware, pottery and woollens.
When night falls Sliema’s bars and restaurants are relaxed and mellow.
The Silema Ferry Port provides excursions that go all over the Island.
GET THERE : Bus No: 212 from Bugibba Bus Station
Malta Tour Bus
Witness the famous landmarks and attractions of Malta and Gozo as well as exploring the layout of the Island and compiling your list of things to do for the remainder of your stay- A must do at the start of your holiday.
Board the bus at any of the conveniently located stops, hop off for a visit to one of the many attractions, and hop back on when you’re ready. The three routes with over 30 stops ensure that you don’t miss any of the sights. You can choose between a 1 or 2 day ticket, whichever suits your schedule the best!
Night Bus Tours with dinners also available.
Maltese Summer Folklore Nights
Fancy some traditional Maltese fun ?
Then why not try the Maltese Summer Folklore Night - with delicious dishes served over a vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere.
Start the evening with a welcome drink and the chance to explore the award winning surroundings of the venue . Then tuck into some traditional Maltese food including locals delicacies, salads, meats and scrumptious desserts whilst being entertained by local Maltese dancers Frejgatina (Fisherman’s dance) all in the company of the beloved donkeys taking centre stage - events run from May until the end of October .
Maltese Summer Folklore Nights
GET THERE : Bus No: 16 from Bugibba Bus Station
Malta Fun Bus
If you’re looking to explore Malta up close and personal then Malta Fun Trains should be right up your street.
Malta Fun Train Tours offer three tours around the island - Bugibba , Rabat and Valletta and introduces you some of the best historical, cultural and architectural parts of the island whilst providing some great fun for all the family . The tours last around 30 minutes and cost €5 for adult and €3 for children - so amazing value for money.
These Train’s offer so much versatility , with a conventional train tour during daytime hours allowing you to see the best of what Malta has to offer but then coming alive at night with music and party lights- definitely a great way to start or end a family holiday.
Gozo
Gozo is gorgeous and as Malta's 'little sister' island astounds with its history, beauty and food. Known to provide a tranquil haven for a tempo and scene change, the charm of Malta's sister Island is immediately apparent; it's greener, more rural and smaller, with life's rhythms dictated by the seasons, fishing and agriculture.
The island also comes complete with historical sites, forts and amazing panoramas, as well as one of the archipelago's best-preserved prehistoric temples, Ġgantija
THINGS TO DO IN GOZO......
The Deep Blue Hole
The Blue Hole dive site in Dwejra overlooks the beautiful Azure Window and starts in a fantastic 10m wide inland sea pool which leads into a large crevice and through to the open sea. Once you start your dive you will see a natural rock arch with clear blue waters that is your doorway leading to the open sea.
Xlendi Bay
Xlendi Bay is one of the prettiest places on the island. Its inky blue sea, the cloudless turquoise sky and majestic cliffs makes this place a must for tourists to visit. In the middle of the approach to this bay, about one foot below the surface of the water lies a hidden rock.
This rock while being somewhat dangerous to navigation, is at the same time providential, since, in rough seas the heavy waves loose much of their force against it before continuing their course towards the beach.
This beautiful inlet with a sandy beach ideal as a swimming spot for both young and old. For many years this bay used to be a fishing village, but recently it has been transformed into a tourist attraction. As a tourist resort it is equipped with several tourist-oriented amenities, such as, bars, restaurants, holiday flats and hotels.