Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean, Valletta, the capital city of Malta, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Renowned travel journalist Simon Calder invites us on an immersive 48-hour journey through this UNESCO World Heritage site, revealing his top picks and hidden gems along the way.
#### Day 1: Arrival and Historical Immersion
**Morning: A Grand Welcome**
Arriving early at Malta International Airport gives you a full day ahead to explore. Grab a coffee at one of the airport’s cafés before heading to Valletta. The drive or bus journey offers picturesque views of the island’s landscape. Check into a boutique hotel within the city walls—Simon suggests places like Casa Ellul or The Coleridge for their charm and hospitality.
Once settled in, begin your adventure at the Upper Barrakka Gardens. It’s not just about enjoying the panoramic views of the Grand Harbour but also understanding Malta’s strategic importance through centuries. Simon recommends timing your visit to witness the traditional noon cannon firing ceremony, an event that echoes history.
**Afternoon: Stroll Through History**
Lunch at a local eatery such as Trabuxu Bistro offers a taste of Maltese cuisine with dishes like rabbit stew and bragioli. Post-lunch, take a leisurely stroll down Republic Street towards St John’s Co-Cathedral. Simon points out that its unassuming façade belies a lavish interior adorned with Baroque artistry – including works by Caravaggio.
Continue exploring Valletta’s wealth of museums—The National War Museum or The National Museum of Archaeology are Calder’s picks for understanding Malta’s rich past from different perspectives.
**Evening: Sunset and Theatre**
As evening approaches, head towards Valletta’s waterfront. Enjoy dinner with views over Marsamxett Harbor; Ta’ Marija Restaurant serves up superb Maltese fare accompanied by folk music on certain evenings.
Post-dinner offers a chance for some high culture; check if there are performances at Teatru Manoel (one of Europe’s oldest working theatres) which Simon highly recommends experiencing if possible.
#### Day 2: Artistic Insights and Relaxation
**Morning: Artistic Beginnings**
Begin your second day with breakfast at Caffe Cordina—a historic café where locals gather for pastizzi (ricotta-filled pastries). Next, visit MUZA, Malta’s national community art museum housed in an Auberge d’Italie—a historic knight’s residence. Here you can delve into Maltese artistic contributions across generations.
A short walk from MUZA is Casa Rocca Piccola—a 16th-century palace that provides insight into noble life during Malta’s Knights’ period. Guided tours often include anecdotes making history come alive—something Simon always appreciates as it enriches the visitor experience.
**Afternoon: Modern Vibes and Shopping**
For lunch, try something different at Noni—one of Valletta’s Michelin-starred restaurants where traditional meets contemporary in both decor and dining.
Revitalized from lunch, explore more contemporary sides of Valletta starting with Strait Street known for its vibrant bar scene—historically frequented by sailors but now home to chic boutiques and artisan shops perfect for picking souvenirs as suggested by Calder.
**Evening: Harbor Lights and Reflections**
For your final evening, book a harbor cruise departing from Sliema which provides enchanting views back towards Valletta as sunset turns buildings golden—an unparalleled sight and fitting end to two full days here suggested by our travel expert.
Dinner can be aboard or choose one last scenic spot back in Valletta itself like The Harbour Club for exquisite meals coupled with historic views recommended by Simon who often concludes his visits savoring these moments reflecting on journey highlights.
### Conclusion
Simon Calder helps us discover that although small geographically, Valletta packs an enormous punch culturally and historically—a potent combination best savored slowly over 48 hours. Whether you’re indulging in rich history or modern Maltese vibrancy, every corner turned promises new delights making it easy to understand why Calder returns time after time.