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It may feel early to start thinking about fall travel, but it’ll be here before you know it. And it’s always a good to book trips around events, like Malta’s Birgu Fest, happening this October 11 + 12th, in advance. Every October, the entire medieval town of Birgu, also known as Vittoriosa, turns off its electricity and is illuminated by candles in this magical event. It was such a highlight of my year living in Malta, I returned for it 10 years later. It’s 100% worth planning a trip around. ➛ 3 (other) things to do in Malta: Hike, rock climb, or scuba dive in Gozo; spend a day in the medieval town of Mdina; explore the capital and UNESCO World Heritage site, Valletta, after dark. See my full list. ➛ Can’t miss restaurants: Get coffee at Lot 61 and traditional Maltese pastizzi next door at Manuela; fresh seafood lunch at Tartarun; and Maltese dinner at Legligin. In Valletta, sit outside with a cocktail at Cafe Society or G&Ts at Yard 32. Or, ferry across the harbor for drinks on a boat at Guadalupe. ➛ Where to stay: If you’re only there for a few days, make Valletta your home base with a stay at the luxurious boutique hotel, Casa Ellul, ultra-luxurious Phoenician, or one of the apartments at Valletta Vintage. Whichever you choose, try to book a room with a traditional Maltese balcony. ➛ Packing tip: Bring a light jacket and a hat—this time of year gets windy in Malta. ➛ There’s a map for that: Save all of my Malta recommendations instantly in your Google Maps app with this curated Google Map list. ➛ Getting there: No direct flights from the U.S. Fly through Rome or Paris and tack on a night (or two) in one of these cities.
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