Malta: A Mediterranean Gem Calling Australian and New Zealand Travellers

Malta

With over 300 days of sunshine a year, Malta is the perfect Mediterranean escape for Australian and New Zealand travellers looking for a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. This island archipelago offers a rich tapestry of influences, from its ancient past to its vibrant present, making it an irresistible destination for adventurers, food lovers, and wine connoisseurs alike.

A Taste of Malta

Maltese cuisine is a delectable fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours, shaped by centuries of trade, migration, and colonisation. Every bite tells a story, from rustic street food to refined dining experiences.

A Culinary Crossroads

• Italian & Sicilian Influence – With its close ties to Italy, Malta’s cuisine features pasta, tomatoes, olive oil, and seafood. The island is home to the indigenous tal-Bidnija olive, which produces exquisite olive oil. Traditional dishes like timpana (baked macaroni pie) and kapunata (Maltese ratatouille) put a unique Maltese spin on beloved Mediterranean flavours.

• Arabic & North African Roots – The influence of Arab rule is evident in Malta’s use of spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, as well as ingredients like dates and almonds. Mqaret (crispy date fritters) and couscous-based dishes are testament to these deep cultural ties.

• British Influence – Malta’s history as a British colony until 1964 introduced a love of tea and foods like corned beef, which found its way into traditional Maltese fare. The popular hobz biz-zejt (Maltese bread with tuna, tomato paste, and capers) reflects this heritage.

• Greek Flair – The use of honey, cheese, and filo pastry in Maltese cuisine draws clear parallels to Greek gastronomy. Gbejniet, a traditional Maltese sheep or goat cheese, and pastizzi, savoury filo pastries filled with ricotta or mushy peas, highlight these connections.

Raise a Glass to Malta’s Exclusive Wines

Beyond its exceptional food, Malta is home to a thriving wine scene with varieties that can only be found on the islands. The indigenous Gellewza and Girgentina grape varieties produce some of the Mediterranean’s most distinctive wines.

Malta’s vineyards, scattered across both Malta and Gozo, benefit from fertile soil, coastal breezes, and abundant sunshine, creating ideal conditions for winemaking. Whether you prefer a bold red, a crisp white, or a delicate rosé, Malta’s wineries promise a unique tasting experience. Visitors can explore rolling vineyards, sample handcrafted wines, and pair them with local specialties like fresh cheeses and olive oil.

For an immersive experience, step inside 400-year-old wine cellars and learn about Malta’s traditional production methods. A glass of wine enjoyed in the heart of the countryside or along a coastal terrace offers a taste of the island’s rich viticultural legacy.

A Year-Round Mediterranean Escape

Malta

While Malta’s food and wine are enough to entice any traveller, its breathtaking landscapes, historic sites, and year-round sunshine make it an unrivalled destination for any season. Explore the UNESCO-listed city of Valletta, wander through the medieval streets of Mdina, or embark on an outdoor adventure along the island’s dramatic coastline.

Malta’s crystal-clear waters also make it a diver’s paradise, offering underwater caves, reefs, and wrecks that attract enthusiasts from around the world. For those who prefer to stay above the waves, the island’s beaches and boat tours provide endless opportunities to soak up the Mediterranean’s turquoise beauty.

With festivals and events happening throughout the year—from traditional feasts and cultural celebrations to world-class music festivals—there’s never a dull moment in Malta. Whether you're drawn by its history, culinary experiences, or sun-drenched shores, Malta promises an unforgettable escape for Australian and New Zealand travellers eager to discover a new Mediterranean gem.

Web: https://www.visitmalta.com/en/