ADVERTORIAL • August 2017
Valletta: six city highlights
From the opening of a highly-anticipated modern art museum to the city’s super stylish boutique hotels and restaurants, there’s going to be an explosion of culture in Valletta throughout 2018, when the city will reign as the European Capital of Culture. Local writer Jo Caruana reveals six reasons the Maltese capital – which is just a three-hour flight from the UK - makes for a Mediterranean city break with a difference
Culture hopping
As European Capital of Culture 2018, Malta is pulling out all the stops with a jam-packed cultural calendar that is as dynamic as it is varied. Highlights will include the opening of MUZA, a new museum of art that will be housed in the stunning Auberge d’Italie (which was originally built by the Knights of St John). Meanwhile, a slew of festivals, exhibitions and performances will take place throughout the year, with a focus on the many ways Malta’s exciting history has shaped its eclectic present.
Boutique dreaming
Valletta only got its first boutique hotel a few of years ago – but since then, a whole host of hotels have been popping up across the island offering speciality accommodation for every type of traveller. Providing the perfect mix of designer décor, traditional features and top-quality accommodation, all within the walls of this historic city, you’ll want to make a reservation at the gorgeous Grand Harbour view suite at SU29 (pictured) or check into the luxuriously intimate Casa Ellul.
Fine dining
Food lovers will not be disappointed by Valletta – there’s an endless supply of options, from the always-happening gin-and-tapas bar Yard 32 (pictured) on Strait Street to the fine-dining fare served at Michael’s within the historic L’Hostel De Verdelin. Next year will also see the unveiling of the restoration of the old market – Is-Suq – on Merchants Street. Locals are excitedly looking forward to this launch, where the concept is said to have been inspired by Mercado di San Miguel in Madrid – which should promise some very tasty results.
Backstreet walks
So much of Valletta’s charm lies on the streets away from its main thoroughfares. If you want to experience a more authentic side to the city, head outwards, away from Republic Street and Merchants Street. You’ll find that the capital was built in a grid-like structure and all roads lead towards the sea. Top spots include the pretty stairs down from St Ursula Street to St Barbara Bastions, and the cobbled walkway down to the bottom of Strait Street.
Artisan shopping
The majority of Valletta’s shopping streets are home to recognisable international brands, so you’re likely to feel very much at home. However there are a few alternatives, such as St Lucy Street, which is known for its silversmiths and jewellery shops, and Zachary Street, where a number of local brands are based. For couture clothing, head to Charles & Ron on Republic Street – they are easily Malta’s most successful design duo and their flagship store is a beautiful showcase of their latest collection.
Instagram-worthy sights
As a Unesco World Heritage site, so much of Valletta is snap-happy and ready to be photographed. A popular spot is the Upper Barrakka Gardens, with its gorgeous views over the Grand Harbour and across to the Three Cities. From here you can also take the lift down to lower Valletta to explore this lesser-known part of the city or hop on the ferry across to Cottonera for dinner. The five-minute crossing provides all sorts of Instagram-worthy angles of the Valletta bastions.
British Airways flies to Malta from London Gatwick. For more information on city breaks in Valletta, visit maltauk.com
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