I was in love at first sight in Malta ... The entrance to the natural harbor of Valletta - half awake seen from the balcony - is absolutely amazing!
It is one of the most beautiful ports, you can imagine, you have a wonderful view over the city and large parts of the island. Because I could not get enough: The look, the buildings, the color that is so typical of the country (a kind of ocher, as the stone there), the sounds and smells of the sea in the background. 
It's obviously good at so high a ship to be, because you get a different perspective. That was very impressive, I just stood there, I looked, enjoyed and was astounded. We had a full day in Malta available. It was so hot and we had time, we briefly early in the pool for a swim (we were the only ones) and then get out.
foot one can easily reach the bus parking lot (no, not the horse in the photo but the hill, not forgetting the recollections of the Grand Harbour - a dream!). For 3,49 EUR you get on the bus a day ticket for public transport on the island. 
general, everything is incredibly easy, everyone speaks English, the people were friendly and helpful, you pay with € - great. The bus network is well developed, good routes, is the road map it online. Part of the buses are very old and recognized by the colors from a distance. 
We are a bus to Mdina and Rabat, the so-called Twin cities. Mdina is the old capital city and worth seeing. I found it convenient to go first by bus and visit to Valletta at the end - so you could estimate the time good to be back in time on the ship.
In Mdina we got an audio guide and steer us to experience the city can be.
The guide was presented well, he has taught a lot about history and the many attractions and is highly recommended. The cathedral I found interesting, the museum next to it, of course, the Citadel, the city gate, etc. Everywhere there is the possibility for short breaks, some with great insight in courtyards or views of the island. 
We're pretty much running on foot in the sun, it was exhausting, but very interesting.
In Rabat, which is really right next to it, we strolled through small alleys and have let everything affect us. Visited we have the Catacombs of St. Paul's , carved in stone underground impressive. But the cooling in the underground vaults was doing well in the heat sometimes. Otherwise helps to cool cold water - or a drink called Kinnie , which is typical for Malta - a kind of lemonade from bitter oranges and vermouth, very tasty and refreshing.
find interesting to me that street names were in two languages - Maltese is derived from an Arabic dialect and is the only Semitic language in Europe. The history of Malta is also very interesting, shaped by the situation. The Maltese Cross frequently encountered incidentally.
With the bus we are back to Valletta. From the bus station can be directly through a gate into the city and comes on a large square and main street Republic Street with many shops and street cafes. was 
For the visit of the Grand Master's Palace, unfortunately no time, but it was enough for a quick tour of the cathedral - also worth seeing: The interior is stunning and you should really need much more time. As in Mdina is also typical floor inlays were made of stone. Unfortunately not enough time to march on the fortress of St. Elmo. So we strolled a bit (it was a super store with ingredients for pastry, cake pans, etc.!), Have an ice eaten and are then returned to the ship.
Malta is definitely bookmarked for a longer trip. The island we liked very well, it's so diverse, relaxed, interesting, relaxing. 
The exit from the harbor was obviously a highlight and it is only at the shows. Then the ship sailed towards Sicily, we looked for a place at the pool and are still swimming strong. evening I had no desire for the usual menu, so we are in the Mexican restaurant. There was relatively little was happening, but the waiters were friendly and the food was prepared fresh for someone who was really hot and has good taste.
This is part of a travel report on my cruise 7 Days Western Mediterranean with the MSC Splendida, details can be found here .
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