Malta and Gozo go beyond just being a sun, sea and sand destination – it is far more fitting to dub them as the islands of baroque, beauty, bastions and battles. From possessing the oldest temples in the world, to receiving the highest
number of bombs during the Second World War, it’s amazing to think that such small islands have so many rich layers of history. The food culture offers an authentic Mediterranean fusion, the grapevines are blissfully sun-ripened and the locals have a well-known reputation for their generous hospitality. For this reason we say Merħba, Welcome, to your personally curated itinerary which will take you through an incredible storyline to satisfy your tastes and interests. Who knows? Malta might just become your next favourite destination…
Magnificent Malta
The Rolex Middle Sea Race & More!
17 October - 22 October, 2025
The Maltese Islands
Property - Iniala Harbour House
17 October - 20 October (3 Nights)
Iniala Harbour House is discreetly located within 4 stunningly renovated townhouses, perched atop Valletta’s spectacular St Barbara Bastion – the city’s most-coveted street for its unobstructed Grand Harbour views and location within the city centre. Its spacious suites offer seductive views of the Grand Harbour and the historic Three Cities.
ACCOMMODATION - Pied-A-Terre Grand Residence
Suite Size: 115 sqm
Having a private street entrance with a staircase leading to the first floor, the Pied-A-Terre is well appointed with rich architectural details and views of the Grand Harbour. The suite features an open plan kitchen, a generous living area, as well as two bathrooms and a grand master bedroom with a traditional Maltese balcony overlooking Valletta’s quaint East Street.
Property - The Xara Palace
20 October - 22 October (2 Nights)
The Deluxe Suites at The Xara Palace Hotel offer a luxurious retreat with a private sun deck terrace and outdoor Jacuzzi, perfect for soaking in 180-degree views of Malta and the Mdina Metropolitan Cathedral. Elegantly designed with rich fabrics and antique Maltese furniture, these spacious suites feature a marble bathroom, comfortable seating area, and king-sized bed, creating a serene and intimate space for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.
ACCOMMODATION: Deluxe Suite with Terrace and Jacuzzi
Suite Size: Min 40 sqm
The Deluxe Suites at The Xara Palace Hotel offer a luxurious retreat with a private sun deck terrace and outdoor Jacuzzi, perfect for soaking in 180-degree views of Malta and the Mdina Metropolitan Cathedral. Elegantly designed with rich fabrics and antique Maltese furniture, these spacious suites feature a marble bathroom, comfortable seating area, and king-sized bed, creating a serene and intimate space for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.
DAY 1 - Arrival in Malta
- Thursday 17 October -
Important Info & Todays Highlights
Important Info
As soon as you step onto the tarmac, you will be greeted by staff who will ensure a seamless airport experience. Join your private driver for your ride to your host hotel.
Today's Highlights
As you step onto Maltese soil, feel the warmth of the Mediterranean sun and the rich tapestry of history surrounding you, welcoming you to the captivating island of Malta with open arms.
DAY 2 - The Capital City
- Friday 18 October -
Important Info & Todays Highlights
Important Info
Please meet your guide at 09:30 to begin your experience. Arrive back at your hotel by 16:30.
Today's Highlights
Immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Valletta as you wander its historic streets and explore the world of the Knights of St John.
Valletta Exploration
Upper Barrakka Gardens
National Museum of Archaeology
Lunch Reservations at Palazzo Preca
Gilder Artisan
St John’s Co-Cathedral
Valletta Exploration
Valletta, a peninsular masterpiece crafted by the Knights of St John after the Great Siege of 1565, stands as a UNESCO-graded capital city. An enchanting journey through time awaits you, with its vibrant blend of history and contemporary culture, gridded street pattern, beautiful baroque architecture, and panoramic vistas from its gardens.
Upper Barrakka Gardens
A visit to Upper Barrakka Gardens promises a breathtaking panoramic experience. Perched on the edge of the Grand Harbour, it offers an unparalleled view of the Mediterranean’s only natural harbor, framed by the historic Three Cities. Stroll through the greenery, enjoy tranquil moments by the fountains, and be captivated by the mesmerising sights.
National Museum of Archaeology
Nestled within the historic capital of Valletta, the archaeology museum serves as a guardian of the island’s prehistoric heritage. Here you will embark on a captivating journey through time, exploring artifacts from the UNESCO temples to those of the Phoenician and Roman periods. With the help of your guide, you will truly connect with the echoes of Malta’s past.
Lunch Reservations at Palazzo Preca
Palazzo Preca offers a charming and authentic dining experience in the heart of the capital. Housed within a beautifully restored 16th century palazzo, this family-run restaurant exudes old-world charm and elegance. With its warm atmosphere, adorned with rustic stone walls and traditional decor, Palazzo Preca invites you to embark on a culinary journey.
Gilder Artisan
One of the most remarkable crafts in Malta is the art of gilding – particularly on clocks. Maltese clock gilding is a captivating art form that combines the intricacies of clockmaking and the meticulous application of gold leaf onto clock cases to create a stunning and luxurious finish. Today, a master gilder will open up his private studio for you to see his work up close.
St John’s Co-Cathedral
Built in the 16th century, this baroque jewel is more than just a place of worship; it is a visual symphony of art and architecture. The austere exterior of the cathedral gives way to a breathtaking interior adorned with ornate gilded embellishments, as well as Caravaggio’s largest and only signed masterpiece – The Beheading of St John the Baptist.
DAY 3 - Race Day with Southern Malta
- Saturday 19 October -
Important Info & Todays Highlights
Important Info
Meet your guide at 08:30 to walk to your private boat. Return to the hotel by 15:00.
Today's Highlights
Southern Malta is renowned for its maritime traditions, and will unveil a captivating blend of coastal landscapes, bustling harbors, and charming fishing villages.
Grand Harbour Dghajsa Boat Transfer
Birgu Exploration
Gardjola Gardens
Rolex Middle Sea Race Start
Marsaxlokk Village
Lunch Reservations at Tartarun
Grand Harbour Dghajsa Boat Transfer
Embark on an authentic Maltese experience by boarding a traditional dghajsa boat. These boats are striking as they are painted in bright maritime colours such as red, green, blue and yellow. Some say that the Maltese dghajsa is the ‘cousin’ of the Venetian gondola. Enjoy taking in the captivating skyline of Valletta and the Three Cities as you cross the Grand Harbour.
Birgu Exploration
Birgu, or Citta Vittoriosa, has a position of great importance in the Grand Harbour, and several military leaders wanted to take it over. Therefore, the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and Aragonese, all shaped and developed the area. Yet, no one did more for the city than the Knights of St John, who arrived in Malta in 1530 and made Birgu their main base.
Gardjola Gardens
Perched on the bastions of Senglea overlooking the Grand Harbor in Malta, is a tranquil haven that offers breathtaking panoramic views and a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. Named after the iconic Gardjola, a watchtower with the distinctive eye and ear symbols carved on its façade, the gardens exude a true sense of historical charm.
Rolex Middle Sea Race Start
With a bang, at approximately 11AM, the participating sailboats of the Rolex Middle Sea Race will begin their 606 nautical mile challenge. Featuring a circular route, two active volcanos, and a host of other islands, the course has a unique splendour not to be missed. It’s the Mediterranean’s most challenging and scenic race.
Marsaxlokk Village
Marsaxlokk is celebrated as Malta’s largest fishing port, and is dazzled with its fleet of luzzu boats. These iconic Maltese traditional vessels, adorned with vibrant colors and eye motifs on their bows, symbolise both fishermen’s protection and good fortune. Immerse yourself in its maritime heritage and relish the unique charm of this coastal village.
Lunch Reservations at Tartarun
As a charming fishing village renowned for its vibrant fish market, Marsaxlokk sets the perfect backdrop for this culinary gem. Tartarun’s rustic yet elegant decor, adorned with nautical touches, creates a truly intimate atmosphere. The restaurant’s menu showcases the freshest catches of the day, expertly prepared by chefs to highlight the natural flavors of the Mediterranean sea.
DAY 4 - Ancient Malta with Central Malta
- Sunday 20 October -
Important Info & Todays Highlights
Important Info
Depart with your guide and driver at 09:30. Arrive back at the hotel by 17:00.
Today's Highlights
Step back in time and traverse the ancient landscapes of Malta, where millennia of history unfold before your eyes amidst ancient temples.
Hagar Qim & Mnajdra Temples
The Dingli Cliffs
Lunch Reservations at Villa Bologna
Villa Bologna – Private Visit
The Hypogeum
Hagar Qim & Mnajdra Temples
Hagar Qim and Mnajdra are UNESCO prehistoric temples thought to have been built to worship the fertility goddess. To put their age into perspective, they are around 1000 years older than the pyramids of Giza, and even Stonehenge. Through this visit, you will have the opportunity to say you visited the oldest, free-standing temples in the world!
The Dingli Cliffs
The long stretch of towering limestone cliffs on Malta’s western coast form one of the most dramatic landscapes in the country. The Dingli Cliffs mark the highest parts of the island at 253 metres above sea-level. Here you will be treated to the spectacular views of the open sea and Filfla – the small, uninhabited island used as target practice in the Second World War.
Lunch Reservations at Villa Bologna
The Villa Bologna Restaurant offers an exquisite dining experience amidst the splendor of one of Malta’s most cherished estates. Steeped in history and surrounded by lush gardens, the restaurant exudes an air of timeless elegance and refinement. You will be welcomed into a world of culinary delight in a tranquil haven that celebrates rich heritage and natural beauty.
Villa Bologna – Private Visit
Dating back to the late 18th century, Villa Bologna is a stately mansion that boasts a harmonious blend of baroque and neoclassical architecture. Enjoy the unique opportunity to meet with a member of the de Trafford family as they guide you through their fascinating property and share their remarkable history and stories in Malta.
The Hypogeum
The Hypogeum is an outstanding underground burial complex that bears testimony to a civilization that has disappeared. It was in use between 4000 and 1500 BC. Covering a remarkable 500 square metres, it was amongst the first Maltese entries on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is unique in the world, and only allows 10 visitors per hour!
DAY 5 - The Old Capital Region
- Monday 21 October -
Important Info & Todays Highlights
Important Info
Please meet your guide and driver to depart at 09:30. Arrive back at the hotel for 15:00.
Rejoin your driver and guide at 18:00 to depart for your private dinner.
Today's Highlights
Embark on a journey through Malta’s medieval past as you delve into the winding streets and historic landmarks of the old capital region.
Rabat Village
Mdina Exploration
Mdina Palazzo – Private Visit
Lunch Reservations at Trattoria AD 1530
Rustic Sunset Dinner (1-4 pax)
Rabat Village
During their 200 year rule, the Arabs divided the old Roman City of Melite into two: the fortified area became known as Mdina – the city – and the outskirts as Rabat. Some highlights of Rabat include St Paul’s Church, Grotto, and St Paul’s Catacombs. These places tie in with the biblical story of St Paul’s shipwreck in Malta, which is said to have taken place way back in 60 AD.
Mdina Exploration
Often referred to as the “Silent City,” Mdina is a hilltop fortress which served as Malta’s old capital city. You will feel the power as you enter its honey-coloured limestone walls and navigate its winding roads. Its panoramic views and range of architecture will undoubtedly captivate you as much as the noble families who continue to live here.
Mdina Palazzo – Private Visit
With just a couple of knocks, you’ll have the exclusive opportunity to enter one of Mdina’s noble palazzo doors to find out that it is so much more than just a home. A member of the family will personally take you around their property and cannot wait to show you their most prized possessions and narrate the stories linked to them.
Lunch Reservations at Trattoria AD 1530
Trattoria AD 1530 is housed in a historic building dating back to the 16th century, and exudes old-world charm. You will be welcomed into a cozy ambiance adorned with traditional Maltese decor, where every corner tells a story of Mdina’s rich heritage. The menu itself showcases a delightful array of Mediterranean dishes inspired by age-old recipes.
Rustic Sunset Dinner
Direct from the farmers and straight to your plate. Indulge in a delightful sunset dinner amidst the serene ambiance of a private olive grove. This experience not only tantalises your taste buds, but also supports a network of local artisans, from bakers to beekeepers, offering you a genuine connection to Malta’s thriving rural communities. Non-alcoholic beverages will be available
DAY 6 - Departure Day
- Tuesday 22 October -
Important Info & Todays Highlights
Important Info
Join your driver to depart for the airport where you will be met by VIP staff who will ensure a smooth airport experience – right up to the plane.
Today's Highlights
As you bid farewell to Malta, carry with you the memories of its azure seas, historic marvels, and warm hospitality, leaving with a heart full of cherished moments and a longing to return to its enchanting shores once more.
Itinerary Inclusions
- Arrival and Departure Transfers.
- Expert Guiding and Chauffeur Service for Touring Days.
- 3-night stay at Iniala Harbour House.
- 2 Night Stay at The Xara Palace.
- 5 Breakfasts and 1 Dinner.
Itinerary Exclusions
- Attractions and Meals not identified in the itinerary.
- Round-trip Airfare and Medical/Travel insurance.
- Gratuities for Guides and Drivers.