Yes, I caught Enola Holmes 3 on Netflix. The latest one shifts the story to Malta, and those sun-baked streets and clifftop views steal the show. It’s no wonder they picked the place. The island sits south of Sicily, packed with history that looks straight out of a Victorian mystery. If the film has you thinking about a trip, Malta delivers.
Practical Basics
Malta is safe for travellers. Exercise normal precautions, watch your belongings in crowded spots, and you’ll be fine. The currency is the euro, so no need to hunt for exchanges. English is an official language alongside Maltese, which makes everything straightforward. Most people speak it well, especially in tourist areas. Summers run hot, so aim for spring or autumn if you prefer milder days and fewer crowds.
Things to look out for include strong sun and limited shade at many sites. Wear sunscreen, carry water, and take breaks. Drivers can be aggressive, so stay alert if you cross roads or rent a car. Pickpocketing happens in busy areas like markets, so keep valuables secure. Tap water is safe but has a distinct taste from desalination, so many buy bottled.
Must-Go Places
Start with Valletta. This compact capital, built by the Knights of St John, mixes grand architecture with everyday life. Walk Republic Street, step into St John’s Co-Cathedral to see the Baroque details and floor tombs, and head to the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens for harbour views. It feels alive in the evening when locals gather in the squares.
Mdina, known as the Silent City, sits on a hill inland. Its medieval walls and narrow lanes shut out modern noise. Climb to the ramparts for sweeping countryside views. Nearby Rabat offers catacombs and a more lived-in feel.
The Three Cities across the Grand Harbour – Birgu, Senglea, and Bormla – give a quieter taste of history. Birgu has charming alleys and fortifications. Marsaxlokk fishing village brings colour with its traditional boats and Sunday market. Grab fresh fish and watch the harbour bustle.
For natural beauty, the Blue Grotto area features dramatic caves and clear water perfect for boat trips. On the north coast, Golden Bay and Ghajn Tuffieha offer sandy beaches backed by cliffs. St Peter’s Pool provides a rocky swimming spot with natural ledges.
Hidden Gems and Gozo
Gozo, the second main island, feels slower and greener. The Citadel in Victoria mixes markets and views. Head to the salt pans at Xwejni for striking patterns carved into the rock, or the Inland Sea at Dwejra for a dramatic swim spot.
Hidden gems add real depth. On Gozo, Hondoq ir-Rummien beach sits tucked away with clear water and fewer people. Wied il-Ghasri offers a narrow inlet between cliffs great for swimming or kayaking.
Back on the main island, the Victoria Lines form an old British-era wall that stretches across the hills. Hiking sections gives great views. Blata tal-Melh feels remote and raw. Lascaris War Rooms in Valletta take you underground into WWII tunnels. The Mosta Rotunda impresses with its huge dome. Explore megalithic temples like Hagar Qim and Mnajdra for ancient stones in peaceful settings.
How to Get Around Malta
Getting around is straightforward but takes some planning. Buses are cheap and cover most places, with a day pass offering good value. They run regularly from Valletta but can get crowded or delayed in peak times.
Ride apps like Bolt and Uber work well in towns and often cost less than taxis. Download them before you arrive. For longer distances or Gozo exploration, renting a car gives freedom. Drive on the left, but watch for narrow roads and fast local drivers. Parking is usually free in white bays. Ferries to Gozo and Comino are frequent and affordable.
A week lets you cover the main spots without rush. Spend a few days in Valletta, then branch out. Book popular boat trips or the Hypogeum in advance during busy months.
What to Buy and Eat
Must-buy items bring memories home. Look for handmade Maltese lace and delicate filigree jewellery. Mdina glassware comes in rich colours. Local honey, olive oil, and sea salt capture the island’s flavours. Try a bottle of Maltese wine or prickly pear liqueur. Ceramics and traditional sweets also make good gifts.
The food scene helps too. Pastizzi pastries, rabbit stew, and fresh seafood taste best at local spots. Eat where locals go for the real experience.
Getting There from Australia
Getting there from Australia works well through the oneworld network. Qantas flies from major cities to hubs like London, Rome, or Doha. From there, British Airways, Iberia, or Qatar Airways partners connect smoothly to Malta International Airport. Codeshare options and alliance benefits make the journey easier. You earn and burn Qantas points across the trip, and lounge access helps on longer routes. Check schedules for good connections via Europe or the Middle East. The alliance keeps things reliable.
Malta punches above its weight for a small island. Whether you chase film locations from Enola Holmes, explore ancient stones, or swim in hidden coves, it rewards the trip. Pack light, walk a lot, and slow down.
In case you wonder: Enola Holmes 3 Malta Filming Locations
- Valletta – The capital’s historic streets, harbours, and fortifications featured prominently in key scenes, showcasing its Baroque architecture and waterfront views.
- Mdina – Known as the Silent City, this ancient walled hilltop town provided atmospheric medieval lanes and dramatic ramparts for the film’s mystery elements.
- Mellieħa – Coastal village and surrounding areas used for outdoor sequences, capturing Malta’s rugged beauty and traditional feel.
- Ħ’Attard – Village locations added to the period setting with quiet streets and countryside charm.
- Marfa Ridge – Offered striking clifftop and landscape shots for adventurous scenes.
- Malta Film Studios – Interior sets and additional controlled filming took place here to complement the on-location work.
These spots highlight Malta’s rich history and varied landscapes, which perfectly suited the Victorian-era detective story. Many are easy to visit on foot or by short taxi ride from Valletta.
