Malta is an island country in the Southern Mediterranean Sea. Its archipelago is situated east of Tunisia and south of Italy, meaning it experiences a favorable year-round temperate climate. Even though Malta is one of the smallest countries in the EU, it is divided into five districts: the Northern Region, the Central Region, the Southeastern Region, the Southern Region, and the Islands Region, which includes Comino. The Northwestern region, or Malta Majjistral, comprises the Northern Harbour District and the Western and Northern districts. The Southeastern Region, or Malta Xlokk, comprises the Southeastern and the Southern Harbour districts. Throughout its lengthy history, the Maltese archipelago—a small but strategically significant group of islands—has been central to the conflicts between Africa, the Middle East, and the European civilization and the battles of successive powers for control of the Mediterranean. Many different cultures and civilizations have left their mark and influenced Malta, including the Phoenicians, the Greeks, the Romans, the Arabs, the Sicilians, and more. Malta is distinguished for its indented shoreline, sheltered bays, headlands, terraced plains, and fertile lowlands. Discover Malta’s hidden gems and drive unlimited kilometers without worrying about excessive car hire fees. Our fair fuel policy and affordable car rental prices in Malta guarantee peace of mind and dependability when booking with us.
Most of Malta's shoreline is made up of steep limestone cliffs indented by bays and coves. The coastline extends for 219 kilometers and features splendid beaches and hidden coves, such as Paradise Bay, St Paul’s Bay, and Fomm ir-Riħ Bay, among others. The Maltese archipelago is primarily composed of limestone rocks. They are situated on the Hyblean-Maltese Plateau that links the Tripolitana Platform in southern Libya and the Ragusa Platform in southern Sicily. The plateau comprises limestone uplands, with Ta' Żuta, the highest peak, rising to 253 meters in the southwest. The face of Malta's west coast is mountainous and does not include harbors. However, the east and south sides of Malta feature more sheltered harbors and tourist areas. For example, Marsamxett Harbour and Grand Harbour are separated on the east by the promontory Sceberras, where the capital city is situated. Moreover, the main international port of Malta, Malta Freeport, is located in the southeast and is the busiest port in the island country. Welcoming more than 4 million visitors on an annual basis, Malta Freeport is an important travel and trading hub. Just across Malta Freeport, you will find the fishing village of Marsaxlokk and the stunning St. Peter’s Pool. Enjoy the sweeping harbor views and fresh seafood at Roots Restaurant, and discover the sea pools and rock formations at St Peter’s Pool. Rent a car in Malta and drive anywhere you want at any time of the day with a well-maintained holiday vehicle. We offer the cheapest car rental prices in Malta without any hidden fees attached to your reservation. Try Imperial Car Rental today!
Aside from its beautiful picture-perfect landscapes and its vibrant nightlife, Malta has a rich history due to its strategic position in the heart of the Mediterranean. With a rich and turbulent past spanning over 7,000 years, it is no wonder that the Maltese islands are home to more than three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with Hagar Qim Temple being the most prominent. The Maltese archipelago has always attracted numerous civilizations and played a crucial role in maritime trade, as well as during World War II. Since the beginning of human presence in Malta 7,000 years ago, these islands have seen the passage of Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Normans, and the Knights Hospitaller.
Traces of different cultures can still be seen today, with temples predating the Pyramids of Egypt, such as the megalithic temples of Ta' Ħaġrat and Skorba. Between 870 and 1090, the island was occupied by the Arabs, who gave Malta a large part of their culture and made Mdina the capital. This long occupation left some traces, notably in the Maltese language, which displays a solid Arabic influence. In 1530, the archipelago was entrusted as a fief to the Knights Hospitaller by Charles V. Malta acted as a bulwark for Europe against the constant Ottoman conquest in the Mediterranean. Malta gained independence from Great Britain in 1964 and became a republic ten years later. With a modern touch but retaining its traditional vibe, the archipelago remains imbued with its rich and thousand-year-old past, which can be admired in many villages and coastal towns!