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Call us on 01707 817260

  • Monday - Friday9am - 5pm
  • Saturday9am - 1pm
  • SundayClosed
  • Bank HolidaysClosed

Footsteps through Malta at Christmas

Explore the captivating Maltese Islands with this 8‑day, 7‑night adventure, blending ancient history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From Neolithic temples and medieval cities to sun‑kissed bays and colourful fishing harbours, this itinerary offers the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration—all while staying in comfort at the 4‑star AX Victoria Hotel in Sliema.

  • Sliema

  • Half Board
  • Culture

    Coast & Islands

  • Dec

  • Average group size: 12-14

What does this mean?

Grade Leisurely

Leisurely

What does this mean?

7 Nights

From

Was £2,539
£2,439
With flights and transfers
Save up to £100
Was £2,159
£2,059
Without flights
Save up to £100
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Walking grade

Grade 3

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Adagio Collection

The perfect blend of guided shorter walks, sightseeing trips, and quality accommodation for a more leisurely way to discover the world.

Overview

Holiday Highlights

  • Take slow paced walks around historic sites and along coastal paths
  • Stay in the boutique 4* AX Victoria Hotel- rated 9.1 on Booking.com
  • Visit Dingli Cliffs, Megalithic Temples and Blue Grotto
  • Full day trip to Gozo

This 8‑day Maltese adventure combines historic exploration, scenic coastal walks and cultural highlights across Malta and Gozo. After a smooth arrival and hotel check‑in, the journey begins with a guided tour of Valletta and a picturesque harbour cruise, followed by visits to WWII shelters, Golden Bay, the iconic Mosta Dome and the medieval city of Mdina. Guests will experience Malta’s dramatic landscapes at Dingli Cliffs, the prehistoric Ħaġar Qim Temples and the Blue Grotto before enjoying a full‑day tour of Gozo, including its charming villages and the Citadel in Victoria. A coastal walk from St. Thomas Bay to the colourful fishing village of Marsaxlokk rounds off the exploration before departure. Throughout the trip, lunches and dinners are thoughtfully arranged at both the hotel and local restaurants, with accommodation provided at the 4‑star AX Victoria Hotel in Sliema, known for its boutique comfort, spa facilities and rooftop pool.

  • Return flights
  • Airport transfers
  • En suite four-star hotel accommodation on a half board basis
  • Transfers between centres
  • Services of a local guide in Valetta.
  • Services of an Adagio Tour Leader.
  • Entrance fees (unless otherwise specified)
  • Personal expenses (such as your bar bill)
  • Discretionary tips
  • Optional excursions
  • Travel Insurance

Holiday Information

Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.

NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen

View Holiday Information Sheet

Tour Codes

51210

Itinerary & Travel

Itinerary Details

Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Silema

Meals

Half board

Accommodation

Transfer Time = 25m

Day 2

Valletta & Harbour Cruise ​

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

  • Time

    2hr 45 mins hours

  • Distance

    3km miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    Minimal/Minimal m

Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, we’ll explore Valletta on foot, uncovering its fascinating history, key landmarks and the stories that shaped the city. In the afternoon, the journey continues with a scenic harbour cruise, offering a fresh and striking perspective of this historic capital from the water.

Day 3

Mgarr to Golden Bay

Meals

Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation

After breakfast, head north to Mgarr to explore the remarkable World War II shelters that weave beneath the village, offering a powerful insight into Malta’s wartime past and the resilience of its people. After lunch, your journey continues with a scenic walk toward the golden sands of Golden Bay, where sweeping coastal views and the calm Mediterranean setting provide a perfect, tranquil end to the day.

  • Time

    2 hours hours

  • Distance

    5km miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    122m/178mm

Day 4

Mosta Dome and Mdina

Meals

Half Board

Accommodation

  • Time

    3 hours hours

  • Distance

    6.5km miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    +122m/-180mm

The Rotunda Church, famed for its vast unsupported dome—one of the largest in Europe—sets the stage for the day’s exploration. From there, the group continues on foot to Mdina, Malta’s historic former capital, where narrow winding streets and centuries‑old palaces create an atmosphere of serene timelessness that has earned it the title “The Silent City.” As they wander at a relaxed pace, they can admire the striking architecture, ancient bastions and peaceful squares. In the afternoon, the group returns to Valletta, providing additional free time to enjoy the city’s vibrant streets, browse local shops, or unwind at a charming café.

Day 5

Dingli Cliffs, Megalithic Temples and Blue Grotto

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    3 hours hours

  • Distance

    Day 5 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    +95/-185mm

At Dingli Cliffs, Malta’s highest point, the group is rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of the island and the shimmering Mediterranean coastline. From there, they continue on foot to the prehistoric Megalithic Temples of Hagar Qim, where they can admire the ancient stone structures and learn about the rituals and spiritual practices of Malta’s earliest inhabitants. After lunch, the journey leads to the natural wonder of the Blue Grotto, where dramatic sea caves and crystal‑clear waters provide an ideal setting for photos and a memorable encounter with Malta’s striking coastal beauty.

Day 6

Gozo Full Day Tour

Meals

Half Board

Accommodation

  • Time

    2 hours hours

  • Distance

    3km miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    +155m/-35mm

The day begins with the group setting out for the island of Gozo, travelling by ferry across the sparkling Mediterranean waters. Upon arrival, they embark on a scenic walk from St. Lawrence, making their way through the charming village of Gharb, known for its traditional architecture and rural character. After a leisurely lunch, they continue to Victoria, Gozo’s lively capital, where they explore the bustling streets and local markets before visiting the historic Citadel, perched high above the town with panoramic views across the island. In the late afternoon, the group returns to the ferry for the journey back to Malta, reflecting on a day rich in history, culture and scenic beauty.

Day 7

St.Thomas Bay to Marsaxlokk

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    2 hours hours

  • Distance

    4.5km miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    +105m/-50mm

For their final walk, the group travels south by coach to the serene curve of St. Thomas’ Bay, where the coastline opens into a wide sweep of pale sand and gentle, rolling waves. From this peaceful starting point, the route follows a scenic stretch of shoreline, offering views of rugged cliffs, quiet coves and the ever‑changing colours of the Mediterranean. As they continue onward, the landscape gradually gives way to the charming fishing village of Marsaxlokk. Here, traditional Maltese luzzu boats—painted in bright blues, reds and yellows—bob in the sheltered harbour, creating one of the island’s most picturesque scenes. The group enjoys lunch overlooking this vibrant waterfront, taking in the salty sea air, the bustle of local fishermen and the timeless character of a village that has become one of Malta’s most beloved coastal highlights.

Day 8

Final day

From (GBP)£2,439 With flights and transfers

Departure dates for your selected tour

23rd Dec 2027 - 30th Dec 2027 (7 Nights)

Accommodation

Accommodation information

Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.

AX Victoria Hotel

The AX Victoria Hotel in Sliema is a refined 4‑star boutique property that blends classical charm with modern comfort, offering guests elegant rooms, a luxury spa and a rooftop terrace complete with an outdoor pool and panoramic city views. Located just a short walk from the seaside promenade, the hotel features spacious, air‑conditioned rooms designed in either Mediterranean or Victorian style, along with free WiFi throughout the property. Guests can enjoy a full wellness experience on the dedicated spa floor, which includes an indoor pool, gym and sauna, while dining options range from Mediterranean cuisine at Copperfield’s Restaurant to relaxed drinks at the Penny Black Bar. Its warm service, convenient central location and excellent amenities make it a popular choice for visitors looking for comfort and character during their stay in Malta.

Trip Information

All the details you need

Holiday Grade

We class Grade 3 as leisurely; walks are generally a little longer than level 2, with undulations but over a longer distance. Where sightseeing distances are longer, we take a full day with opportunities to stop, rest and refuel. Generally, itineraries involve easy countryside walking with plenty of breaks,   

Usual daily walks - Distance: 4 miles; Ascent/Descent 300m; Terrain: generally good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Half Day or Full Day walks. 

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or  daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary" .

Your Group

Your Leader

Your Adagio Leader accompanies the group throughout the holiday, helping everything run smoothly from start to finish. Experienced travellers and enthusiastic group leaders, they create the friendly, relaxed atmosphere that is such an important part of the Adagio experience. They take care of the practical arrangements, provide support when needed and help ensure everyone gets the most from their holiday.

Travel Plans

Booking Your Own Travel Arrangements

If you prefer to arrange your own flights from a non-UK or regional airport or travel to your holiday destination by rail or car, you may qualify for 'land only' reductions, and we can provide details upon request. Feel free to reach out to us for more information.

Before finalizing any independent travel arrangements, especially if you're doing so 12 weeks or more before your intended travel date, please check with us first to ensure your holiday has been cleared to operate. If you plan to join your holiday locally, kindly inform us at least 14 weeks in advance.

If you're joining and leaving your holiday overseas, we assume, unless you specify otherwise, that you will join and leave the holiday at your hotel.

Although airport/station transfers are not included for those making independent travel arrangements, you may have the option to join the group at the overseas airport/station, depending on your arrival time. If interested, contact us at least 5 weeks before departure for more details.

Please be aware that you must arrive within 30 minutes of the group flight/train arrival to be eligible for the group transfer. Additionally, we'll need your flight number, arrival time, and departure point or independent travel arrangements to ensure the group leader can meet up with you. If you have a mobile, please ensure we have the number, and it is turned on while you are traveling for effective communication.

Luggage Allowance & Tickets

If you're booking a flight or rail inclusive holiday, rest assured that details of your travel arrangements and baggage allowance will be clearly outlined in your 'Final Travel Documents'. These will be sent to you approximately 10 days before your departure, ensuring you have all the necessary information for a smooth and well-prepared journey.

Personal Details Check

Please ensure your personal details, including your passport information and date of birth, are accurate and up to date, and that we have all the information needed to arrange your holiday. If you have any dietary allergies or intolerances, please let us know.

You can view and update your details using Manage My Booking on our website or by contacting our Sales & Reservations team on +44 (0)1707 331133. Please check your booking confirmation carefully and notify us of any changes as soon as possible.

Passport Information

General Passport Advice

It is a good idea to carry photocopies of the personal details pages of your passport page (with your photo on). Should you lose your passport, this may assist with the issue of replacement documents and your return to your home country. Passport and visa requirements can change at any time. It is your own responsibility to ensure that you inform yourself from a professionally qualified source on, and comply with, such requirements. 

General travel and destination advice for UK nationals is available from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office at www.fco.gov.uk/travel and at www.gov.uk/travelaware.

Passport Advice

If you are travelling to an EU country (except Ireland), or to Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, please ensure your passport meets the relevant entry requirements.

For the latest passport requirements and entry guidance for your destination, please check the GOV.UK Foreign Travel Advice website before you travel.

If you are travelling on a non-British passport, please check passport and visa requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate.

Footwear & Kit List

Footwear

Comfortable, broken in, walking boots or shoes with a good sole are recommended for this holiday. Walking shoes or other comfortable footwear will be suitable for sightseeing days.

General Kit List

Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.

If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:

  • Waterproof jacket (Goretex or similar) and trousers
  • Fleece or jumper
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, lip salve and sun screen
  • Swimwear & towel (if appropriate)
  • Day sack (this should be able to carry all you would need for the days activity)
  • Water bottle - at least 1 litre capacity
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Reusable Lunchbox
  • Walking poles (should you find them useful)

This list is not exhaustive and every traveller is different and may have their own preference.

Electricity in Malta...

Electricity is supplied at 220 Volts. If you wish to use electrical equipment you will need a standard UK three pin plug. More information can be found at https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/

Staying Healthy on Holiday

Country Health

For the latest health advice and entry requirements for Malta, please visit the GOV.UK travel advice for Malta and NaTHNaC.

Travel Insurance

GHIC / EHIC Cards

Starting January 1st, 2021, you, as a UK traveller, can continue using your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) throughout its valid five-year period, granting you access to medical assistance during your holiday until its expiry date. Be aware, though, that this coverage will no longer extend to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. In case you don't have a valid EHIC, you can apply for a new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which will replace the EHIC as it gets phased out.

It's essential to emphasize that the EHIC/GHIC, while valuable, should not be regarded as a substitute for comprehensive medical or travel insurance. For your peace of mind and comprehensive coverage, considering additional insurance is highly recommended.

For more information, please visit www.nhs.uk/ehic

Travel Insurance

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.

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Useful Information

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Malta

  • Capital

    Valletta

  • Currency

    Euro

  • Language

    Maltese; English

  • Time Difference

    UTC +02:00

  • Flight duration

    3.5hrs from UK

Visas and Passports

No Visa Required

Average weather

  • January

    12°C

    Avg. Rain: 89mm

  • February

    13°C

    Avg. Rain: 59mm

  • March

    14°C

    Avg. Rain: 41mm

  • April

    16°C

    Avg. Rain: 26mm

  • May

    19°C

    Avg. Rain: 9mm

  • June

    23°C

    Avg. Rain: 6mm

  • July

    26°C

    Avg. Rain: 5mm

  • August

    27°C

    Avg. Rain: 8mm

  • September

    24°C

    Avg. Rain: 34mm

  • October

    21°C

    Avg. Rain: 83mm

  • November

    17°C

    Avg. Rain: 86mm

  • December

    14°C

    Avg. Rain: 109mm

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Average customer rating: 4.6/5
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