Relaxation Before Departure
On the morning of our departure, after savoring my delightful coffee on the terrace, I got started with packing. By the time my family woke up, I was nearly done.

One Last Dip
Since our flight wasn’t scheduled until late in the evening, at 7 PM, we had asked our host in advance if we could check out later. To our delight, they agreed to extend our stay until noon instead of 10 AM. This was great news, so we decided to squeeze in one last dip at the charming little beach nearby.

After breakfast, we headed to the beach, which was just a stone’s throw away from our accommodation—right across the road. We enjoyed the sunshine and the sea until 10:30 AM, then returned to the apartment for a quick shower. For lunch, we had a light and delicious pasta dish, and by noon, we left the accommodation. Our little girl fell asleep in the car almost immediately.

Final Stops: Mosta Dome and Vittoriosa
On our way to the airport, we planned to visit two more places: the awe-inspiring Mosta Dome and Vittoriosa, one of the gems of the Three Cities.

Mosta Dome: A Marvel of Architecture and Miracles

The Mosta Dome, also known as the Rotunda, is one of Malta’s most iconic landmarks and was just a 12-minute drive from our accommodation—making it an ideal destination for our last day. Although the parking spaces in front of the dome were full, we found a shaded spot, about a 5-minute walk from the church. Since our daughter was still tired from the morning swim, my husband stayed with her in the car while I explored this remarkable site on my own.

The entry fee was a modest €5, which included a map and a brief guide to help navigate the building. The Mosta Dome impressed me not only with its sheer size and interior beauty but also with its incredible story, making it a symbol of Maltese miracles.

In 1942, during World War II, a German bomb pierced the dome while more than 300 people were attending Mass. Miraculously, the bomb didn’t explode, and no one was injured. This event has since become a symbol of divine intervention and miracles. A replica of the bomb can still be seen in one of the side chambers of the church.

Boasting the third-largest unsupported dome in the world, the 37-meter diameter structure is an architectural wonder. Stepping inside, I was awestruck by the monumental space. The interior is adorned with beautiful frescoes, statues, and gilded details, which are especially captivating in the play of natural light. This place isn’t just a church—it’s a testament to human faith and resilience, where history, architecture, and spirituality converge.

After returning to the car, we set off for Vittoriosa to continue our day.

The Three Cities: Vittoriosa (Birgu), Senglea (Isla), and Cospicua (Bormla)

The Three Cities have a long and rich history intertwined with the legacy of the Knights of Malta. Situated across from Valletta, these fortified towns were built on three small peninsulas to protect the capital and harbor from Ottoman invaders. The panoramic view of the area from the Barrakka Gardens in Valletta is stunning, but exploring the medieval-style streets and buildings up close is an unforgettable experience.

Birgu, or Vittoriosa, served as Malta’s capital from 1530 and boasts buildings even older than Valletta’s. Its name, meaning „Victorious,” reflects the knights’ glorious past. Key attractions include the Malta Maritime Museum, Fort St. Angelo, and the Inquisitor’s Palace.

Vittoriosa: A Glimpse into the Past
While most visitors arrive in Vittoriosa by ferry, water taxi (dgħajsa), or bus from Valletta, we opted to drive since we had already visited Valletta and found this more convenient before our flight.

We spent the afternoon strolling through Vittoriosa’s historic streets, shaded by medieval buildings. To our surprise, we encountered very few tourists, which added to the town’s charm. Despite its historical significance rivaling Valletta and Mdina, its serene atmosphere and lack of crowds made it a uniquely special experience for us.

As we walked along the harbor, we admired the enormous yachts and relaxed at a seaside café with coffee, lemonade, and ice cream, enjoying the proximity to the sea.

A Playful Farewell
After our sightseeing walk, we made time for our daughter to run around at a local playground before heading to the airport. Vittoriosa was the perfect finale to our last day.

We returned the car to the rental office at the airport. You can find detailed information about what to watch out for during pick-up and drop-off in this article.

Our week in Malta flew by in the best possible way – sunny days, cozy towns, sparkling seas, and countless smiles. We explored charming old streets, relaxed on beautiful beaches, and filled our days with unforgettable moments. Even with a little one by our side, every day felt light and full of joy. This island truly welcomed us with open arms, and we’re leaving with wonderful memories. Until the next adventure with WanderingKite!