Discover Malta: A Journey on Iconic Open-Top Buses and Enchanting Island Cruises

Experience Malta from Above: The Open-Top Bus Tours

Malta's open-top bus tours provide an immersive way to witness the island's beauty and historical sites. These double-decker buses, reminiscent of London's iconic transport, offer two distinct routes covering the northern and southern parts of the island. Each tour lasts about three hours, but with their hop-on, hop-off system, you can explore at your own pace.

The Southern Route

The southern tour is a cultural feast, taking you through:

• Valletta, Malta's capital city, known for its Baroque architecture
• The Three Cities, a collective name for the fortified cities of Cospicua, Vittoriosa, and Senglea
• Marsaxlokk, a traditional fishing village famous for its colorful luzzu boats
• The Blue Grotto, offering mesmerizing sea caves
• The Hagar Qim Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to 3600-3200 BC

The Northern Route

The northern tour showcases a different side of Malta, including:

• The yacht-filled marinas of Ta' Xbiex
• The serene San Anton Palace gardens
• Ta Qali Craft Centre, a hub for Maltese artisans
• The Malta Aviation Museum, a tribute to the island's aviation history
• The Mosta Dome, with its impressive rotunda
• Mdina, the Silent City, a medieval walled town

Both tours feature multilingual audio guides, offering commentary in eight languages, including English, French, German, Italian, Maltese, Danish, Spanish, and Japanese.

Navigating Malta by Sea: The Island Cruises

Malta's island cruises are a splendid way to experience the archipelago's coastal beauty. These cruises offer a different perspective of Malta, Gozo, and Comino, showcasing their stunning landscapes and crystal-clear waters.

Round-Malta and Round-Gozo Cruises

These full-day excursions sail past:

• The formidable bastions of Valletta and the Grand Harbour
• The historic Three Cities
• The bustling areas of Sliema and St Julian's
• The quaint fishing villages and salt pans along the coast
• The dramatic Dingli Cliffs and the whimsical Popeye's Village
• The Blue Lagoon in Comino, perfect for swimming and snorkeling

Cruises often include buffet lunches, refreshments, and the option for speedboat rides to explore Comino's caves and other attractions.

A Variety of Cruises to Choose From

With a range of cruises available, you can select one that aligns with your interests, whether it's diving, snorkeling, fishing, or simply enjoying the Mediterranean sun. These cruises are operated by reputable companies, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Interesting Stats and Lesser-Known Facts

While Malta's bus tours and cruises are well-known, here are some intriguing statistics and facts that are often overlooked:

• Malta's tourism sector contributed to 27.1% of the country's GDP in 2019, highlighting the importance of travel experiences like bus tours and cruises (Malta Tourism Authority).
• The Hagar Qim Temples are among the oldest free-standing structures in the world, predating Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids.
• The Mosta Dome has the third-largest unsupported church dome in the world and was nearly hit by a bomb during World War II, which miraculously did not explode.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, Malta's open-top bus tours and island cruises offer a unique and comprehensive way to experience the island's charm. With the wind in your hair and the sun on your face, these tours provide a delightful journey through Malta's rich history and stunning landscapes.