Located in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, about 90 km south of Sicily, the islands are Malta, Gozo and Comino especially in autumn and winter the ideal insider tip for a spontaneous short vacation. Due to the proximity to North Africa, the ambience of the vibrant island lives from an exciting mixture of Mediterranean lifestyle and oriental flavors. Malta discover means experiencing excellent cuisine, diving into crystal clear sea and experiencing 7,000 years of history. 

The crystal clear waters can be enjoyed either on the fine sandy beach or among the stones of breathtaking coves. © VisitMalta

Whoever walks through the streets of Valletta strolls, experiences millennia of history and modern island lifestyle at the same time. With only 0.55 km² it is the smallest capital of the EU and since 1980 UNESCO World Heritage Site. Valletta is a true jewel with over 14 palaces and 19 churches. One of the highlights is the view of the magnificent harbor from the upper Barrakka Gardens. Hidden bars and great restaurants are waiting to be explored. The prestigious Michelin Guide has awarded five restaurants here with one star each.

More information and tips can be found here: Discover Malta

Island tip Malta: The perfect getaway in autumn

Malta is a perfect travel destination, especially in autumn, to keep the feeling of summer. The persistent warm temperatures as well as the bright weather continue to invite you to lie on the beach and swim in the crystal clear water. A little bonus: Even heading into winter, the water temperature reaches up to 23 degrees Celsius. As the oppressive heat of the summer months has diminished, travelers can explore the island's historic cities in the pleasant 20s temperatures, as there is much to discover in Malta!

Taking advantage of the pleasant summer temperatures to discover the history of Malta. @ VisitMalta

Editor's tip: With Air Malta you can get to the island in the heart of the Mediterranean from 129€ (there & back). In autumn and winter, visitors are welcomed by pleasant temperatures - and only a two-hour flight from Vienna.

Malta's cuisine - a Mediterranean delight

Behind the typical, colorful balconies hides an equally colorful world of enjoyment at the highest level. Malta's Mediterranean cuisine is varied, light and healthy. The sun-drenched islands in the heart of the Mediterranean are richly blessed with fresh seafood and freshly caught fish, including swordfish, perch and tuna.

A light and fresh treat using lots of fresh vegetables and seafood. © VisitMalta

Recommended excursion: It is worth taking a leisurely stroll through Valletta or Mdina. Here you can hear interesting stories about the culinary specialties of Malta and taste traditional food and drinks.

Related: Offbeat Malta Food Trails

Malta's flavors and typical dishes

Especially freshly harvested vegetables can be found on the menus, whether as side dishes, in casseroles or as their own dishes. Wild caper bushes grow along old walls, there are olive groves and a variety of aromatic herbs and fresh garlic. And as is typical for the Mediterranean, olives, olive oil and bread are indispensable in Maltese cuisine. Seasoning is done with sea salt, which on the island is Gozo is still harvested in the traditional way in 160-year-old salt pans. A popular specialty is "Aljotta", a tasty fish soup with lots of garlic, tomatoes and rice, seasoned with freshly chopped marjoram.

The colorful diversity makes the summer flavor of the island tip Malta. © VisitMalta

There is also a large selection of Maltese pastries available in the pastizzerija (pastry shops). Popular snacks are puff pastry rolls, the "pastizzi", heartily filled with lightly salted ricotta cheese or with pea puree. And after dinner, "Helwa tat-Tork" is often served, a paste made from crushed sesame seeds, sugar and almonds.

More information and tips: Culinary & Restaurants in Malta

Breathtaking fun at Cirque du Soleil

The colorful, infectious energy of Malta packed into a unique show - AMORA by Cirque du Soleil promises the best entertainment. © VisitMalta

If you are still looking for something special for the pre-Christmas season, Malta is the place to be, because the Cirque du Soleil has created a show especially for Malta. The program with the resounding name "AMORA" will be performed at the Mediterranean Conference Centre from November 24 to December 18, 2022.

More exciting events and happenings: malta.travel