This is post 7/9 in our Malta series. Why not read them now?
Most of the excitement in going on holiday is exploring new places. Sometimes this can be difficult if you have no knowledge of the local area. You can end up just sticking to the popular tourist hotspots in the major cities. In Malta, visiting areas outside of the urban surroundings of Valletta and Sliema in your hire car can be very rewarding. So make sure you continue reading Economy Car Hire’s guide to the best towns and villages in the less explored Western Malta.
Rabat
Situated in the west of the island is the larger village of Rabat, an old suburb of Mdina. The decorative limestone architecture and relaxing atmosphere make this village a pleasure to visit. A wander round the winding streets and a cool drink at one of the many charming cafés is an experience in itself. There are however many more things to do than just relax and enjoy the sunshine.
There are a variety of historic buildings and museums which you can visit during your time here. The most famous site in the village is St. Paul’s Catacombs, which are just off the main square in the village. The catacombs do not have any links to St. Paul apart from their proximity to a church that bears his name. The labyrinth of tombs have a great atmosphere and provide a compelling insight to burials in 200AD.
After you have explored the ancient burial site you should make some time to admire St. Paul’s Church and Grotto, which are fantastic examples of Maltese architecture. There is also Casa Bernard, a stately home full of great art, and Wignacourt Museum which pays homage to St. Paul, who lived on the island from 60AD.
Popeye Village
Just north from Rabat is the former Popeye film set. The village was purpose built for the movie in 1980, on the shores of the beautiful Anchor Bay. Today the set is a popular tourist attraction and there’s lots to see and do. The cluster of ramshackle buildings, which are brightly painted, are worth the visit just to see them. It really does feel like you have stepped into an animated world.
The village is a great day trip for families and there is an extensive programme of live shows that can keep you entertained all day. You can also take a boat trip around the bay to get a great view back over the village and make sure you have the best photographs. Also, make sure you take your beach things as there is a lido with sunbeds where you can soak up the sun before cooling off by swimming in the bay.
Mellieha
The village of Mellieha is situated on the north-western peninsular of the island. The village has a fantastic marina and there are some excellent seafood restaurants with great views over the bay. In the village the isolated St. Agatha’s Tower is the most popular attraction. The tower is painted a striking red colour and the backdrop of the sea below makes for an excellent photograph. From the tower, which used to be a lookout for Maltese knights, you can look out over the bay and see the islands of Comino and Cominotto, which are great diving locations.
The village is also home to other fantastic examples of religious architecture. You can visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mellieha, to wonder at the decorate interior and explore the crypt. The crypt of the sanctuary also contains a chapel, which is built into one of the natural caves below the building. The use of the landscape in building the chapel gives it a different feel to the other religious sites on the island.
If you have more time available on your trip you might like to do a food tour of the island, if so, you may wish to read our guide to the best restaurants in Malta. However, if you would like some advice on how to travel light and avoid paying to check in luggage on your flight you should read our guide to hand luggage restrictions.
