I've read that Malta is easily "covered" in a week and that you can use Valletta as a base, instead of constantly changing your accommodations. Is this true? If so, are the major sites accessible via public transport, or do I need to rent a car? Any information you might provide would be a God send. Thank you so much!! Also to explore Gozo, where is the best base to stay?? Transport?? I have two weeks allotted to this area before moving on to Sicily. Thanks again!!!!
Posted by
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
8293 posts
There are buses in a terminal just outside the city of Malta walls which will take you to almost anywhere on the island. You do not need to rent a car. Get a Malta guide book and plan your time there.
Posted by
Washington DC Region, USA
7049 posts
If you want to see Gozo, seriously consider two bases: one in Gozo (Victoria makes a great base) and another in Valetta. Even though the island is only about 12 miles long, it still took longer time than expected for the bus to get to the ferry terminal and then actual ferry transit time to Gozo (and then back again). I saw Gozo on one day trip and it was totally insufficient. I think you could easily spend more than a week in Malta and not get bored, especially if you spend several days in Gozo and a stop in Comino.
The bus system was great when I went in 2015, but much less frequent in Gozo since Gozo is much less dense and more rural.
Posted by
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
8293 posts
Unlike Agnes (above) I felt our day trip to Gozo from Malta was a total waste of time.
Posted by
Martinez, CA, USA
1506 posts
We spent 10 nights in Malta, just leaving on March 21. We're 72 and 75 which affects our speed of travel and stamina. We spent the entire time in Valletta, taking six day trips to other towns and sites. We never made it to Gozo. In Valletta everything is pretty much in walking distance. The bus system takes you to wherever you want to go so you don't really need a car, though we did taxi from and to the airport. We also took the ferry to Birgu in the Tri Cities area. The mix of sights outside Valletta and days exploring the town and enjoying the views worked for us. We probably moved more slowly than you will but our experience may help you in planning your time in Malta. We really enjoyed our time there and wish the same for you.
Posted by
OP
9 posts
Wonderful advice. Thanks for responding. I will definitely use the bus system, and a second base in Vittoria makes sense. Happy, continuous travels to all of you. Be blessed!
Posted by
Washington DC Region, USA
7049 posts
I think a lot of folks do farmstay type of arrangements in Gozo because it's quite rural and these farmhouses often come with a pool, a beautiful view of hilly countryside, and make a good setting for a family visit. I'm including a random link I found just so you can see some photos, they're really neat! (https://www.gozofarmhouses.com/accommodation). But if you're relying on public transport (and not definitely not driving in Gozo), it would probably be a lot easier to stay in a more dense place like Victoria. I wish I could have stayed a whole week in Gozo and just had a nice, leisurely time there exploring the small villages. Gozo was a lot greener and less dense than Malta proper.
By the way, I found the Bradt Travel guide and Lonely Planet to be the best resources for Malta planning. Also, look at the official website: https://www.visitmalta.com/en/home
Here is the public bus website: https://www.publictransport.com.mt
And the Gozo ferry website: http://www.gozochannel.com/en/home.htm
Hope you have a terrific trip!