This season, we’re celebrating Malta with a new limited edition embroidered swim short which pays tribute to ‘Il Qabru’, a critically endangered Maltese Crab clinging on from extinction. We are supporting the Malta Environment Foundation and their vital work to preserve the natural heritage of Malta.
We turned to travel aficionado and SJ Villas co-founder Tom Menier for some travel tips for the island that he calls home.
For Tom, Malta is sun-soaked and easygoing, a Mediterranean jewel where life slows. Days unfold against a backdrop of beautiful waters, where mornings might begin with a swim off the rocks and afternoons drift lazily into café terraces shaded from the heat.
Yet Malta is far more than just a beach escape. The island hums with history, from the honey-coloured bastions of Valletta to the winding streets of Mdina. And then there’s the food, a vibrant mix of tradition and innovation. There’s always a new restaurant to discover…
It’s this blend of laid-back living, rich culture, and delicious eats that keeps us being drawn back to the rock. Let’s dive into the details of what to do, where to eat and drink in Malta.
Lunch & Early Evenings
Da Pippo, Valletta
An enduring local favourite for lunch with a great atmosphere. There’s no menu, just seasonal catch that’s expertly prepared. Situated in a tucked-away corner of Valetta, it's best to book early.
Waterpolo Club, Ta’ Xbiex
Enjoy waterside dining with arguably the best view in Malta. Ask for a terrace table and order a few plates to share.
Villa Bologna, Attard
A friend’s place, fueled by good food. Tuck into delicious pizzas in the garden, and there’s also a lovely pottery shop to take a slice of Malta home with you.
Palazzo Parisio, Naxxar
An artfully restored 18th-century palace with grand salons and lush gardens. Dress up for dinner or afternoon tea. The ambience and the spaghetti al limon are wonderful.
Evening Drinks
Singita, Miracle Beach
Bali-meets-Malta! Think cocktails against a sunset backdrop. Bring your sense of adventure for the stair climb.
Bridge Bar, Valletta
Sip prosecco on the old stone steps while live jazz drifts through the air.
Things To Do
Luzzu
Climb aboard a traditional luzzu or water taxi to cross the harbour or float through history’s veins.
Private Boat Tour
Book a private boat for a day trip to Gozo, where hidden coves and untouched sea caves unfold.
Visit Mdina
Known as the ‘silent city’, Mdina is a beautifully preserved walled town sitting at the heart of Malta.
Shopping
Valletta’s Backstreets
Hunt for jewellery and vintage finds on Valletta’s backstreets.
Villa Bologna Pottery
Visit Villa Bologna Pottery for timeless ceramics and perfect keepsakes.
Mdina Glass
Mdina glass is filled with colourful tumblers and glassware, all beautifully Maltese.
Whether it’s lazy lunches by the sea, wandering through sun-drenched streets steeped in history, or discovering hidden coves by boat, Malta offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation.
With Tom’s insider guide in hand, the island unfolds as the perfect destination to slow down and soak up oodles of culture and nature. So if you’re ready to jet off, don’t forget to keep an eye out for Il Qabru crabs and do your bit to help conserve the Maltese natural environment and the wildlife that call it home.
