ITB Global Travel Collection 2026

MUST-DO MALTA EXPERIENCES

For families Interactive museums, boat trips, gentle coastal walks, family friendly beaches and village festivals that blend fun with discovery. For adventurers Diving and snorkelling in clear Mediterranean waters, kayaking along the coast, hiking clifftop trails, cycling rural routes and exploring underwater wrecks.

Valletta has emerged as a creative centre, hosting festivals, exhibitions and performances throughout the year. Contemporary design, quirky hotels and modern galleries sit comfortably alongside historic architecture, giving the city a dynamic energy that feels authentic rather than curated. Experiences play an increasingly important role in how visitors engage with Malta and Gozo. Beyond sightseeing, travellers can take part in hands-on activities that reveal everyday island life, from guided walking tours and craft workshops to sailing excursions and countryside experiences. Gastronomy at every level Malta’s cuisine reflects its long history as a crossroads of cultures, combining Mediterranean simplicity with distinctive local flavours. Traditional dishes showcase seasonal ingredients, local produce and fresh seafood, while a new generation of chefs is reinterpreting Maltese classics with creativity and restraint. Local street-food favourites are an essential part of the experience, from bakery counters to village squares, with the iconic pastizzi – crisp pastries filled with ricotta or spiced peas – a must-try. From family-run trattorias to refined fine-dining addresses, food in Malta is ultimately about connection: to land, to sea and to community. Markets, vineyards and coastal restaurants provide relaxed, authentic settings where meals become part of the journey rather than a pause from it. For travelling food lovers, Malta has firmly established itself on the gourmet map, now home to five Michelin-starred restaurants. Food experiences extend well beyond the table too. Across Malta and Gozo, visitors can take part in cooking classes, food trails and market visits that

showcase the islands’ culinary identity. Gozo’s rural charm enhances this appeal through olive oil tastings, vineyard tours, cheese-making experiences and farm visits that connect gastronomy directly to the land. Compact, connected and easy One of Malta’s greatest strengths is its accessibility. Short distances make it easy to combine city exploration, countryside walks and coastal experiences within a single trip. Ferry links and local transport connect the islands efficiently, encouraging travellers to explore beyond headline locations and discover lesser-known corners. Completing the island trio is Comino, a small, car-free island known for its crystal-clear waters and protected natural landscapes. Best explored on foot or by boat, Comino offers a striking contrast to urban life, with swimming, snorkelling and coastal walks as its main draws. As part of Malta’s wider commitment to balance, visits to Comino increasingly focus on nature appreciation and responsible enjoyment of its fragile environment. This ease of movement supports a more balanced style of travel, spreading visits across regions and seasons while enhancing both visitor experience and local quality of life. Travel in balance As a mature destination, Malta is looking to achieve quality over quantity. Initiatives to promote off-peak travel, highlight alternative locations and invest in sustainability help protect the islands’ character while offering visitors a more meaningful experience. The result is a destination that rewards curiosity, respects its communities and invites repeat visits, each revealing a different side of the islands.

For food lovers Cooking classes, farmers’ markets, olive oil

tastings, vineyard tours, seafood experiences and Michelin-starred dining across Malta and Gozo.

For culture seekers Guided city walks,

archaeological sites, heritage tours, village festas and live performances in historic settings. For slow travellers Boutique hotels, eco retreats, agritourism stays in Gozo, wellness experiences and rural life encounters.

those seeking space, calm and a closer relationship with nature. Here, boutique accommodation, eco hotels and retreat-style stays that prioritise character, sustainability and a sense of place are increasingly popular. Think converted farmhouses, small-scale design hotels and rural retreats that blend traditional architecture with modern comfort. Where culture is lived Culture in woven into daily Maltese life rather than packaged for display. Village festas fill streets with music and colour, church bells mark the passing of time, and local squares remain social hubs long after sunset.

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