2019 Ancient Empires & Mediterranean Legends Cruises: Thursday, October 3, 2019

We had a private Malta tour with Kathy. It was just 4 of us with a guide and a driver. The first stop was the Marsaxlokk Fishing Village. It is a small fishing village located in the South Eastern part of Malta, It is small, however it is the largest fishing village in Malta. We did the harbor walk and saw local fishermen busy mending their fishing nets and fleets of colorful traditional Maltese boats (called Luzzu). We also visited the local open air market for souvenirs.

Marsaxlokk Fishing Village

Next stop was Blue Grotto. The Blue Grotto is a complex of seven caves located along the southern coast of the island. This complex comprises of a massive main arch, which is approximately 30m in height, as well as a system of 6 other caves, among which one will find the Honeymoon Cave, the Cat’s Cave and the beautiful Reflection Cave. If the sea water is clam, it is possible to take a small boat ride to the Blue Grotto. However, the waves were a little too rough for small boats on the day we visited, therefore, we could only enjoy it from the top.

Blue Grotto

Then, the driver took us to Dingli Cliff. However, the spot they took us to view this cliff did not do justice to this famous cliff.

Dingli Cliff

Then, we arrived at the Mdina Medieval City with a walking tour of this medieval walled city.

Mdina Medieval City

Narrow street of the Mdina Medieval City

The driver dropped us off in Birgu Center and we had lunch there. After lunch we visited the Casa Collacchio historical area and then we walked down to the waterfront marina area for a ferry crossing to the cruise terminal in Valletta.

Harbor view form the top of Casa Collacchio

Waterfront marina

After rested for a while on the ship, we went out again to visit the Valletta town which is Malta's capital and a World Heritage site. It is famous with the majestic St. John's Co-Cathedral, quaint cafes and wine bars. From the cruise port, it requires a lift to take one to the Upper Baracca Garden of Valletta. The view of the Grand Harbor from the Upper Barracca Garden was beautiful and we spend a lot to time there for photos .

View of the Grand Harbor from the Upper Barracca

Then, we walked to St John's Co-Cathedral which is Malta's most impressive church. It was massive and impressive from outside. Unfortunately, we got there after their closing time and did not get a chance to see the inside of the church.

We just walked along the main street trying to reach St. Elmo Fort located at the tip of Valletta. When we got there it was also after their closing time. Therefore, we just walked along the seashore to enjoy the Gand Harbour. We finally got to the Lower Baracca Garden to enjoy the Grand Harbour from different angles.