The following are some recommendations from previous Savynomad guests that can help our new guests better orientate themselves and make the best out of their stay. Below we start first with general matters, followed by our Valletta and then Bormla locations:
Getting Around in Malta
Try the unbeatable value of travelling by bus with the Tallinja Explore Flex Card (such as the 7 day unlimited bus card called TRAVELLER)
https://www.publictransport.com.mt/en/explore-flex
To avoid the huge overcrowding and disappointment, we suggest that avoid visiting Blue Lagoon in Comino during the months of July and August.
Events in Malta
For current key events in Malta we recommend visiting the official calendar of the:
Savynomad Youtube Channel
While at your Savynomad Harbour Residence in Malta, on your TV watch a selection of local and international news, events in Malta, movies and TV shows.
https://www.youtube.com/@savynomad101
Valletta
Golden hued beauty abounds in Valletta, the capital of Malta. When UNESCO bestowed World Heritage Site status upon the city it described Valletta as ‘one of most concentrated historic areas in the world’. Indeed Valletta, since its founding in 1524 by the Order of Saint John, has played an important role in European history, perhaps best known for repelling the Ottomans at the Siege of Malta. The siege paved the way for the construction of the magnificent fort structures that now dominate the city. Awash with charm and heritage, it’s hard not to be swept away by the majesty of the place. The city sprawls out over a couple of peninsulas, but the best places to stay in Valletta are in the heart of the old town.
Attractions:
- The city’s history has been punctuated by religion, most significantly by the Order of the Knights of Malta. As a result Valletta, is home to a number of stunning churches. The most famous of these is the sublime St. John’s Cathedral, which is a must visit.
- The Cathedral is home to Malta’s most famous artwork, the Beheading of St. John the Baptist by Caravaggio. Caravaggio lived for a while on Malta after his expulsion from Rome and was commissioned by the Order of St. John to paint a number of pieces.
- Also worth visiting is the Grand Master of the Knights of Malta’s Palace to get a fascinating insight into the history of the Order.
- Museums such as the National War Museum and the National Museum of Archaeology reflect the island’s rich heritage and history.
- Take a walk along the city’s amazing fortified walls that for centuries have given Valletta military strategic value.
Eating Locations
Press here for Restaurants, bars and food markets recommended by our guests:
Groceries & Supermarkets
For your groceries, supermarket needs and some cosy eating locations and different choice of cuisine and foodstuffs, try:
Is-Suq tal-Belt
Nearest Chemist
Foreign Exchange
To convert currency it is best to go to a hotel reception: Like Iniala just down the road on St Barbara Bastions, or Castille Hotel up the road in Castille Street. They might do it for you. Otherwise it will take ages at the bank.
During office hours you can go to FexServ in St John’s Square (38- 18 St Zachary Street)
FexServ Location
Nearest Hardware store
Miceli Store tools ironmongery DIY
Nearest Laundromat in Valletta
Bluwash Self Service Laundry, 324 St Paul St, Valletta
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Cultural Events in Valletta:
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Free Walking Tours in Valletta
Guided tours in Valletta, where a local guide explains history, culture, and lifestyle.
Pay what you please.
Beaches in Valletta
| St Elmo Bay | Valletta | Rocky Beach outside the Breakwater |
|---|---|---|
| Wuestenwinds beach | Valletta | Rocky Beach close to Breakwater |
| Marsamxetto Bay in Boat Street | Valletta | Rocky Beach in Marsamxetto bay side |
St. Elmo Bay is situated on the south side of the city, just below the bastions of Marsamxett harbour. In addition to being a swimming spot, it’s also a famous diving site as there’s an underwater wreck of the WWII British destroyer HMS Maori.
It’s particularly ideal for rookie divers, as its sheltered position and depth provide a relatively safe environment for those looking to dip their toes into the underwater world. The site hosts a myriad of underwater flora and fauna including octopuses, red groupers, cuttlefish and red mullets.
Wuestenwinds Beach under the Mediterranean Conference Centre with a stairs down next to The Malta Experience is another interesting local spot where locals like to have a dip.
The rocky beach on the Marsamxetto bay side in Boat Street next to Capo Crudo restaurant is another secluded swimming spot that’s often ignored by tourists but is a local favourite because it’s not as over-crowded in summer as the other islands’ main swimming spots.
Organisations and Institutions Close By
In case you happen to be attending a business trip or an event in Valletta, Savynomad Harbour Residences are within a short walking distance from such places as:
University of Malta (Valletta Campus ‘Old University Building’); Easy School of Languages; Cavendish School of English Malta; The European Commission Representation in Malta, Dar l-Ewropa; France Embassy; Mediterranean Conference Centre (MCC); Spazju Kreattiv (Art center in Valletta); Teatru Manoel (Manoel Theatre); Royal Opera House Site; Parliament House (Parliament of Malta); Institute of Legal Studies Malta; Unilang School; Europass Teacher Academy; Malta College; Italian Cultural Institute; Pegaso International Private University; German-Maltese Circle; London School of Commerce, Valletta; Malta Group of Lodges; Blue Door Education; Valletta Cultural Agency; Malta Society of Arts; The Malta Community Chest Fund; Din L-Art Helwa The National Trust of Malta; Embassy of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta.
Gozo High Speed Ferry from Nearby Your Accommodation
Guests staying at Savynomad Harbour Residences in Valletta have the convenience of accessing the Gozo High-Speed Ferry from nearby Battery Street or St. Anthony Street. This quick and direct service whisks you away to the beautiful island of Gozo in just 45 minutes, offering a scenic and hassle-free journey. Ideal for day trips or longer stays, the ferry provides a comfortable and efficient way to explore Gozo’s picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and hidden gems. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, the Gozo High-Speed Ferry is the perfect gateway to a memorable island escape.
Ferry Service between Valletta and The Three Cities
Guests staying at Savynomad Harbour Residences in either Valletta or Cospicua can enjoy the convenience of the Valletta Ferry service, offering quick and scenic travel between the two locations. Departing a short walk down from Valletta’s Battery Street or St. Anthony Street, and from Cospicua, a short walk from 5 Fortini ta’ Felic, the ferry ride across the Grand Harbour takes just 10 minutes. It’s an easy, picturesque way to explore the Three Cities or return to Valletta for sightseeing, dining, or shopping. Ideal for day trips, this ferry service provides a fast, affordable, and enjoyable connection for guests on both sides of the harbour.
Bormla
Bormla, or Cospicua, is one of the famed Three Cities along with Birgu (Vittoriosa) and Isla (Senglea). The three walled cities, known as the Cottonera, along with Valletta across the Grand Harbour, are the most important heritage from the Knights of the Order of St John, and served to protect Malta from invasion. Valletta is 10 minutes by Ferry from Bormla. The ferry is pretty nearby to the Savynomad apartments in Bormla.
Walk around Bormla to admire it fully: it is small enough and this will allow you to truly admire its character. Some buildings still bear shards from the bombing during the Second World War, and you can identify the newer parts which had to be rebuilt. Bormla has a formidable story to tell, ever since the area was first inhabited in Megalithic times.
Hidden within Bormla are three megalithic structures, the burial places of Ghajn Dwieli, Ta’ German and Ta’ Kordin, a triglodithic chapel and some other caves that may have been used for prayer during the times of St Paul’s stay in Malta around 60AD. Perhaps easier to find and admire are the famous Cottonera Lines (1670), the Santa Margerita Lines (1638) and the St Clement’s Retrenchment (1854), which are some of Bormla’s most important heritage from the Knights. Visit also the Collegiate Parish Church and its Oratory (1731) which is repleat with unique masterpieces.
In Bormla the Dockyard Creek remains prominent. Even the Phoenicians took refuge for their ships in Bormla, and later the Carthaginians and the Romans continued to exploit the facilities of the Grand Harbour, one of the largest natural harbours in the world. Bormla’s location, between the promontories of present-day Birgu and Isla, have dictated its purpose and made its history.
The city is home to beautiful 17th-century fortifications. Some of the fort’s finest features are the Santa Margherita Lines, the Cottonera Lines, and Saint Helen’s Gate.
The city has a number of lovely churches. The best of which include Parish church of the Immaculate Conception, the church of St. Theresa, and the chapels of St. Paul and St. Margaret.
Cospicua plays host to religious festivals throughout the year. It is particularly well known for the city’s celebration of Good Friday and the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
It’s very easy to hop over to Valletta from Cospicua with ferries running throughout the day.
Some of the many attractions:
- Bir Mula Heritage Museum
- Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
- Church of St Paul
- Monsateru ta’ Santa Margerita
- Kunservatorju San Guzepp
Location of the public parking area closest to our Residence:
For a quick snack (Maltese Style):
To order any type of food to your door:
Eating & Drinking Locations in The Three Cities:
San Giorgio Restaurant
Date (Art Café)
Snack Bar and Coffee
The Little Bastion
Enchanté Restaurant
MyKonos
Don Berto Restaurant
For your food, drinks, groceries, etc, try:
Nearest Chemist in Bormla:
Beaches near Bormla
| Senglea Point Beach | Birgu-Bormla | Rocky Beach beneath Senglea Point |
|---|
If you’re staying in the Three Cities, such as Cospicua (Bormla), and want to explore the southern coast for swimming, you’re in luck. The south offers a variety of picturesque beaches, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and exploring Malta’s natural beauty. With easy access from the Three Cities, these beaches offer both rocky and sandy options for a memorable seaside experience.
1. St. Thomas Bay (Marsascala)
Just a 25-minute drive or bus ride from Cospicua, St. Thomas Bay offers a peaceful and spacious spot for those seeking a mix of sandy shores and rocky ledges. Known locally as ‘Ir-Ramla,’ this bay is perfect for windsurfers and sunbathers alike, with small sandy beaches and flat rock platforms. It’s a great location if you’re looking to relax away from busier tourist spots, with shallow waters that make it suitable for families. Marsascala itself is a charming seaside village, offering a nice retreat from city life.
2. St. Peter’s Pool (Delimara)
Around 30 minutes by car from the Three Cities, St. Peter’s Pool is one of the most unique and breathtaking swimming spots on the island. Situated close to Marsaxlokk, this natural rocky pool is famous for its clear azure and light green waters, perfect for snorkeling. The flat rocks surrounding the pool are ideal for sunbathing, and the water is deep enough for adventurous cliff jumping. St. Peter’s Pool is a quieter spot, providing a sense of adventure and seclusion, but bring snacks and water as amenities are limited.
3. Pretty Bay (Birżebbuġa)
Pretty Bay is one of the few sandy beaches in the south, just a short 20-minute drive from Cospicua. Although the view of the nearby Freeport can be a bit industrial, the sandy beach and warm waters make it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike. The beach has plenty of facilities, including cafes and restaurants, so you can easily spend a day lounging by the sea. If you’re up for a cultural stop, consider visiting Għar Dalam, the Cave of Darkness, just a short distance away.
4. Għar Lapsi (Siġġiewi)
Located about 30 minutes from the Three Cities, Għar Lapsi is a secluded gem that’s perfect for swimmers who prefer rocky coves and crystal-clear waters. Its natural swimming pool, framed by dramatic cliffs, is ideal for snorkeling and diving, offering an underwater paradise. The rocky shoreline may not be as child-friendly, but it’s perfect for a peaceful day by the sea if you want to escape the crowds and enjoy the wild beauty of Malta’s coastline.
5. Żurrieq Valley (Blue Grotto Area)
A bit further afield but worth the 35-minute trip from Cospicua, Żurrieq Valley is located near the famous Blue Grotto, a prime diving and snorkeling destination. The waters are deep and best suited for strong swimmers, but the stunning scenery and caves make it a must-visit for underwater explorers. You can also take a boat tour to see the Blue Grotto caves, a highlight of any southern Malta adventure.
6. Kalanka Bay (Delimara)
Kalanka Bay, near Marsaxlokk, is a quiet and scenic spot that offers stunning flat rock formations, perfect for sunbathing or cliff jumping. The bay is around 30 minutes from the Three Cities and is known for its clear, deep waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. With its remote feel and gorgeous views, Kalanka Bay is a great choice for those looking to escape to a more tranquil and untouched part of the island.
7. Marsaxlokk Harbour & Surroundings
Though not a beach in the traditional sense, Marsaxlokk Harbour, just 25 minutes from Cospicua, offers a different kind of swimming experience. Many locals enjoy a dip along the harborfront or in one of the quieter swimming spots just outside the village. You can combine a visit here with a stop at the local fish market, and explore the traditional Maltese fishing boats known as luzzu before heading to one of the nearby coastal spots like St. Peter’s Pool or Kalanka Bay.
By staying in the Three Cities, you’re perfectly positioned to discover the hidden gems of Malta’s southern coastline. Whether you’re after peaceful sunbathing spots, exciting cliff diving, or spectacular underwater landscapes for snorkeling, these beaches will offer you a varied and authentic Maltese seaside experience just a short distance from your base in Cospicua.
Warm Welcome from Savynomad
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