Itinerary

1. Arrive in Sliema

   We fly from London to Malta International Airport and transfer to our hotel in Sliema where we’ll spend the evening getting to know our fellow pilgrims over a welcome drink and dinner.

2. Treasures of Valletta

   We begin the day with The Malta Experience, which is an audio-visual show that tells the dramatic story of the islands’ 7000 year history. Situated in a purpose-built panoramic auditorium, the show lasts for 45 minutes. After this we’ll visit the Church of the Shipwreck of St. Paul, one of the oldest and most important churches on the island. According to the Acts of the Apostles, St. Paul was shipwrecked on Malta around AD 60 while en route to Rome as a prisoner. He and all aboard miraculously survived, coming ashore at what is traditionally known today as St. Paul’s Bay. This afternoon we’ll stroll through the beautiful Upper Barrakka Gardens, offering panoramic views over the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. From the gardens, take the Upper Barrakka Lift - a quick and scenic descent to the waterfront, offering a unique perspective of Valletta’s historic fortifications. Next, visit the magnificent St John’s Co-Cathedral. Admire its richly decorated Baroque interior and stunning marble tombstones. We’ll have dinner in a local restaurant before heading back to our hotel.

3. Boat trip to St. Paul’s Island

   This morning we take a private boat to visit St. Paul’s Islands, also known as Selmunett. Then we’ll head to Mosta and enjoy an included traditional Maltese style tapas lunch with a variety of small dishes. This afternoon we’ll visit the archaeological site of San Pawl Milqi in Bumarrad, the site of a Roman villa where St. Paul was given hospitality following his shipwreck. Visit and worship in the chapel here that dates back to 1616. We’ll continue to the Mosta Dome, actually called the Parish Church of the Assumption, with architecture based on the Pantheon in Rome and the third largest unsupported dome in the world. Return to our hotel for dinner this evening.

4. Ferry to Gozo

   The name Gozo means joy, and you’ll understand why from the moment you arrive via the scenic ferry crossing. Life on this charming island moves at a relaxed pace. Our visit begins at the remarkable Ggantija Temples - two Neolithic structures dating back over 7,000 years, making them some of the oldest free-standing monuments in the world. We then continue to St. Paul’s Church in Marsalforn (subject to change), dedicated to St. Paul the Apostle. According to the Acts of the Apostles, after being shipwrecked on Malta he then spent three months on the island before departing and continuing his journey to Sicily and Rome. Next, explore Victoria, Gozo’s capital, where you can visitthe impressive Citadel, offering sweeping views across the island. Enjoy free time for lunch and explore at your leisure before we take the ferry back to Malta for dinner at the hotel.

5. Palazzo Pariso + A Tale of Three cities

   We visit Palazzo Parisio in Naxxar today - an 18th century home full of charm and grandeur. Then travel south to explore Cottonera, made up of the historic cities of Vittoriosa, Cospicua and Senglea. After a drive through Cospicua, enjoy a guided walk through Vittoriosa, once home to the Knights of St. John. If the weather allows, we can take a traditional ‘fregatina’ boat ride around the harbour. There is free time lunch and the afternoon is free to relax. Dinner is in the hotel this evening.

6. Rabat, Mdina, wine tasting and craft village

   This morning, we depart for Rabat for a visit to St. Paul’s Grotto, where he is said to have stayed on arrival on the island, and catacombs. On departing Rabat, we head to Mdina for a walking tour. On arriving into the main square in the centre of the city of Mdina, you cannot miss St Paul’s co-Cathedral and will be awestruck at the sheer magnitude of it, entrance is included to the Cathedral. We’ll enjoy a light lunch at the Meridiana Wine Estate with a tour of the cellar. Then finish the day at the craft village housed at the RAF’s former base during WWII. Return to our hotel for dinner.

7. Visit Marsaxlokk Bay and the Blue Grotto

   This morning we travel by coach to the charming Marsaxlokk Bay, one of Malta’s most picturesque harbours. Weather permitting an optional boat trip is (at your own cost) is available. Take time to enjoy the waterfront views from one of the many cafes, browse the boutique ships and soak in the atmosphere of this traditional fishing village. We then continue to the Blue Grotto, a stunning natural beauty spot and geological wonder. Here, a dramatic sea arch and a series of coastal caves cut into the cliffs create a spectacular setting. We’ll return to the hotel mid afternoon to enjoy some free time. Return to the hotel for a farewell dinner in a local restaurant.

8. Depart for the UK

   Travel to the airport and bid a fond farewell to your new-found friends and local guide and depart for Malta International Airport for your direct flight back to the UK.

Essential Information

Practical information

Dates