So much to see and so little time to see it in! We’ve all been there, but have we all done that? Probably not. Here at guidememalta we’ve combed through our own personal experiences to come up with the best way to see as much as possible – within a smooth 10 hours. Are you ready for the ride?
1. Decide on how many you’re going to be
This is vital and, we dare say, will determine the way your day will pan out. The number of people will dictate what sort of transport you will need, whether it’s a self-drive or a van and how much time you will need at each particular stop. For each additional person, remember you’ll have to add on a few minutes. Don’t underestimate the time-sucking capabilities of stragglers!
2. Decide on where to go
Will you be herding the group for a full-day in the capital? Or would you rather jump onto a ferry and head to Malta’s sister island of Gozo? Wherever you decide, we suggest you pick an area – and stick to it. Try not to do too much in one day but choose a geographical location and make a list of the sights to see in the area. Great tried-and-tested ideas are: the museums and streets of Mdina and Rabat; or an exploration of the three cities (don’t forget to swing by the seaside town of Kalkara).
3. Make time for lunch…and dinner!
It’s so easy to forget to make some time for a good sit down, but it’s an essential part of the day. Refresh yourselves and revive your sore legs with a lunch at one of the many dining spots around the island. Plan for an hour and – should you not have enough time – you can always download the menu before and call your order in ahead of time. Many restaurants are more than happy to have you settled and eating as soon as you arrive. If, at lunchtime, you see the day might drag on longer than you thought, it might be wise to make a dinner reservation.
4. Structure the day
Keep a timetable with what you want to see and how long you think you’re going to need. Try not to start your day too late – we would suggest 10am at the very latest – and attempt to plan for the easier stops after lunch: you don’t know how tired you’re going to feel on a full stomach and as your excursions draw to a close.
5. Include lots of variety
Museums, museums, museums – even if you’re a culture vulture, too much of a good thing is, well, too much! Once you’ve decided on the general approach and location, make a list of sights and activities available in the area. Don’t include too much of the same thing, or you might risk turning what could be a very memorable day into one which is easily forgotten. Rather, alternate between indoor and outdoor experiences to get a taste of a little bit of everything.
And as a little bonus:
6. Do some research – and distribute!
If you’re immensely organised, and you really want to make the most of the day, look into the places you’re going to visit and read up on them. And, make sure your whole group of friends is on the same page by sending them the links to anything you may have come across. It will deepen your appreciation for what you’re about to see and give you a different perspective to the usual hotspots.
Main image: www.viewingmalta.com