Exploring Valletta: A Day in Malta's Capital

Hello, fellow adventurers! I'm Kevin Brittain, and today I'm thrilled to share my experience of visiting Valletta, the capital of Malta, with you. As part of my journey in the beautiful Malta, I ventured into Valletta for the first time, and I was mesmerized by its charm and history.

For those of you who might not know, Valletta is not just any capital city; it holds the title of the smallest capital city in Europe. But don't let its size fool you – Valletta is a treasure trove of history, culture, and architecture, all packed into a quaint city that you can comfortably explore on foot.

From the moment I arrived, the city's unique blend of influences became apparent. Valletta’s architecture reminded me a bit of Dubrovnik with its Eastern European flair, mixed with the grandeur one might find in Venice. This isn't surprising considering its proximity to Sicily and its history as a former British colony. The city exudes a blend of Italian, British, and even a hint of Arabic and African aesthetic, thanks to the sandstone buildings that shimmer under the Maltese sun.

Walking through Valletta feels like stepping back in time. One minute, you could be in a bustling shopping area filled with modern boutiques, cafes, and bars, and the next, you might find yourself gazing at a centuries-old historical building, marveling at its beauty. There's something quite reminiscent of Rome in how Valletta merges the old with the new, allowing you to stumble upon breathtaking landmarks amidst contemporary settings.

Our visit to Valletta coincided with the October half-term in the UK, making it an ideal time to explore the city. The weather was perfect – warm but not overbearing, with temperatures hovering between 24-26 degrees Celsius. A pleasant breeze swept through the city, making the exploratory walk even more enjoyable. I often find cities uncomfortably hot in the height of summer, where you're desperately seeking refuge in air-conditioned spots, but Valletta in October was a breath of fresh air, quite literally.

For those planning a visit, I highly recommend venturing into Valletta’s bustling markets and boutiques. The local craftsmanship and products are fascinating to explore, and the markets add a colourful vibrancy to the city.

Reflecting on my visit, here’s a valuable takeaway: while beaches and scenic coastlines are undoubtedly marvelous and should be part of your trip, don't skip the towns and cities. It's in these urban hubs where you truly grasp the essence of a place – its history, its culture, and its architectural marvels. Valletta is a prime example of this, offering an impressive snapshot of Malta's rich heritage and dynamic spirit.

To all my fellow runners and wanderers, if you've ever wondered about visiting Malta, Valletta should definitely be on your itinerary. The city’s compact size makes it easily navigable on foot, and you'll leave with a deeper appreciation for Malta's multifaceted history and beauty.

Thank you for joining me on this exploration of Valletta. As always, your support in my mission of saving children's lives through Runpreneur means the world to me. Every like, share, and comment helps raise the vital funds needed. Keep running, keep exploring, and stay positive. Until next time, happy travels!

Kevin Brittain