Malta and Croatia are two distinct destinations, each brimming with unique offerings. With their fascinating histories, vibrant cultures, and breathtaking landscapes, you can’t go wrong with either. It’s time to dig a little deeper, unfold their unique characteristics, and see which one captures your travel spirit. Keep reading, and by the end of this, you’ll be one step closer to deciding your next travel destination.
History & Culture
When it comes to history and culture, both Malta and Croatia have compelling stories to tell. Both nations have experienced varied influences over the centuries, resulting in rich and diverse cultures.
Malta, a tiny island strategically located in the Mediterranean Sea, has a history that stretches back thousands of years. The influences of the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and the British can be seen in Malta’s architecture, traditions, and language. The Maltese language itself is a testament to this mix, being the only Semitic language written in Latin script.
Croatia, on the other hand, flaunts a history equally as rich and vibrant. From ancient Roman times, through the Middle Ages, to the struggles of the 20th century, Croatia has preserved its past beautifully. Croatian culture reflects these influences, particularly visible in its architecture, with Roman ruins, Gothic churches, and Austro-Hungarian buildings dotting its landscapes.
The cultural scenes of both countries are dynamic and lively. Malta’s numerous festivals, such as the Carnival and the Isle of MTV, celebrate music, food, and tradition. Croatian cultural life also thrives, with the annual Dubrovnik Summer Festival being one of many events showcasing music, theatre, and dance.
In a nutshell, both Malta and Croatia offer rich histories and vibrant cultures. Your choice would ultimately boil down to whether you prefer the intense Mediterranean mix of Malta or the central European vibes that Croatia exudes. Both promise a deep dive into a past that has shaped their present in fascinating ways.
Attractions & Activities
As you set out to explore Malta and Croatia, you’ll find a diverse range of attractions and activities waiting for you. These two countries promise memorable experiences, immersing you in their unique histories and vibrant lifestyles.
In Malta, the silent city of Mdina calls for exploration. Its narrow streets, lined with medieval and baroque architecture, create a feeling of stepping back in time. St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, with its stunning baroque interior and the famous Caravaggio painting, is a must-visit.
When it’s time for some action, scuba diving around Malta’s clear waters and exploring the many shipwrecks offer a thrilling adventure.
Turning your attention to Croatia, the Plitvice Lakes National Park captivates with its cascading lakes and lush surroundings. Walking through its network of paths brings you face-to-face with nature’s beauty.
For history buffs, the ancient city walls of Dubrovnik provide a fascinating journey into the past. If you’re after some adrenaline rush, hiking in Paklenica National Park with its impressive canyons and peaks is an experience you’d cherish.
Despite their size, Malta and Croatia pack quite a punch when it comes to attractions and activities. In Malta, you’ll find history unfolding at every corner while providing opportunities for some exciting underwater exploration. Croatia, with its national parks and ancient city walls, blends history with nature and adventure. It all depends on what catches your fancy – a historic dive or a nature-filled adventure.
Beaches
As you dive into the beach experiences of Malta and Croatia, remember that each has its own charm and appeal. Their coastlines provide perfect spots to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the mesmerizing views.
Malta’s Golden Bay, with its broad and sandy beach, is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Offering picturesque views, it’s just about 15.5 miles (25 kilometers) from Valletta. Another gem is Mellieha Bay, which is Malta’s largest sandy beach, about 19 miles (30.5 kilometers) from Valletta.
Croatia’s coastline is studded with pebble and sandy beaches, each with a unique appeal. The beach of Zlatni Rat, known as the Golden Horn, juts out into the turquoise waters. Located around 20 miles (32 kilometers) from Split, it’s an iconic Croatian sight.
Banje Beach in Dubrovnik, located just 0.6 miles (1 kilometer) from the city center, offers stunning views of the city walls and the Adriatic Sea.
Whether it’s the sandy beaches of Malta or Croatia’s pebbly shores, each offers a unique beach experience. With their scenic views and azure waters, choosing between them isn’t easy. You’ll be captivated whether you’re enjoying Malta’s golden sands or exploring the unique shape of Croatia’s Zlatni Rat.
Eating, Drinking & Nightlife
As your taste buds embark on a journey across Malta and Croatia, you’ll discover that food, drinks, and nightlife are integral parts of both countries’ cultures. Let’s delve deeper into the unique experiences you’ll encounter in each of these destinations.
Maltese cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean flavors. You’ll enjoy the taste of ‘pastizzi,’ a flaky pastry filled with ricotta or peas, or ‘stuffat tal-fenek,’ a slow-cooked rabbit stew. When it’s time to quench your thirst, try ‘Kinnie,’ a bitter-sweet Maltese soft drink, or ‘Ċisk,’ a popular local beer.
Contrarily, Croatian cuisine varies by region. You’ll savor ‘pasticada,’ a beef stew, or the famous ‘truffles’ in Istria. If you’re thirsty, try ‘Rakija,’ a strong fruit brandy, or ‘Karlovacko,’ a well-loved Croatian beer.
In Malta, you’ll find the nightlife concentrated around Paceville and St. Julian’s, offering a range of lively clubs and bars. Croatia, on the other hand, offers a vibrant nightlife in Hvar and Split with many beach clubs and bars where you can dance the night away.
Both Malta and Croatia promise you a delightful culinary journey filled with unique flavors and tastes. Whether you’re savoring a Maltese pastizzi or a Croatian pasticada, sipping on a Kinnie or a Rakija, or enjoying a night out in Paceville or Hvar, you’re guaranteed unforgettable experiences.
Shopping
Malta and Croatia are both attractive destinations for shoppers who want to experience a mix of traditional and modern retail options. Each country has its own distinctive shopping culture and offers a variety of places to buy souvenirs, fashion items, or local crafts.
Malta is known for its shopping outlets in Valletta and Sliema, where you can find global brands, independent boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. You can also visit traditional markets like the Marsaxlokk Fish Market, which sells local products and souvenirs such as pottery, lace, honey, and wine.
If you are looking for a shopping complex that has everything under one roof, you can check out the Bay Street Tourist and Shopping Complex in St. George’s Bay, which also features a four-star hotel, a family entertainment area, and a center court for events and programs.
Croatia, on the other hand, offers a diverse shopping experience from designer boutiques in Zagreb and Split to local markets like the Dolac Farmer’s Market in Zagreb, where you can buy fresh produce and traditional crafts. You can also explore the Green Market in Split, which is filled with food vendors and a flea market with antiques, clothing, and tourist souvenirs.
If you are looking for a modern shopping mall with a variety of brands and discounts, you can visit the Mall of Split or the Arena Centar in Zagreb.
Whether you prefer walking the modern shopping streets of Sliema in Malta or hunting for a designer piece in Zagreb, Croatia, you will surely find something to take back home. Each country provides unique shopping experiences tailored to your interests and preferences.
Accommodation
When it comes to finding a place to rest your head in Malta and Croatia, you’ll encounter a variety of options tailored to different budgets and preferences. From luxury hotels to cozy apartments, you’re bound to find the perfect accommodation for your stay.
In Malta, you’ll come across boutique hotels in the historic cities of Valletta and Mdina, offering a taste of the island’s rich past. You’ll also find numerous self-catering apartments, particularly in tourist hotspots such as Sliema and St. Julian’s.
In Croatia, you have the choice of luxury hotels and villas along the Dalmatian Coast, especially in Dubrovnik and Hvar. Also, there are numerous apartments and guesthouses throughout the country, providing a home-away-from-home experience.
In essence, both Malta and Croatia offer a wide range of accommodations to fit any budget and preference. Whether you’re staying in a historic hotel in Valletta, a luxury villa in Dubrovnik, or an apartment in Sliema or Hvar, you’re assured of a comfortable stay.
Family-Friendliness & Children’s Activities
Malta and Croatia are both excellent choices for family-friendly holidays, as they offer a range of activities and attractions suitable for kids of all ages. Whether you are looking for beach fun, cultural exploration, or outdoor adventure, you will find something to suit your family’s preferences in both countries.
Malta is famous for its sandy beaches and calm waters, which are ideal for family beach days. You can also enjoy attractions like the Mediterraneo Marine Park, where you can interact with dolphins, sea lions, and parrots, or the Playmobil FunPark, where you can play with giant versions of popular toys.
If you want to stay in a family-friendly resort, you can choose from options like the DB Seabank Resort & Spa, which has a kids’ club, a splash pool, and an animation team, or the Luna Holiday Complex, which has spacious apartments, an indoor pool, and a games room.
Croatia also promises an unforgettable family vacation, with its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. You can visit the Dubrovnik Aquarium, where you can see exotic fish, turtles, and octopuses, or explore the Plitvice Lakes National Park, where you can admire the cascading waterfalls and turquoise lakes.
You can also spend a day at the numerous child-friendly beaches along the Adriatic coast, such as Banje Beach in Dubrovnik or Bacvice Beach in Split. If you are looking for a modern shopping mall with a variety of brands and discounts, you can visit the Mall of Split or the Arena Centar in Zagreb.
In conclusion, Malta and Croatia offer plenty of family-friendly fun, whether you are building sandcastles on a Maltese beach, watching the sea life at the Dubrovnik Aquarium, or exploring the Plitvice Lakes. Both countries have a lot to offer for families who want to have a memorable holiday together.
Getting There & Getting Around
Getting to and around Malta and Croatia is quite straightforward. Here’s what you need to know to make your journey easier.
To reach Malta, you’ll likely fly into Malta International Airport, which is approximately 5 miles (8 kilometers) from the capital, Valletta. In Croatia, you may land at Zagreb, Split, or Dubrovnik airports depending on your final destination.
Once in Malta, you can easily get around the small island by bus, taxi, or rented car. The distances are short, so you’ll find it quite easy to explore the whole island. In Croatia, you’ll find a more extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and ferries, in addition to car rentals.
So, whether you’re flying into Malta or Croatia or navigating their streets and coastal routes, you’re sure to find a convenient means of transportation that suits your needs.
Weather
When planning your trip to either Malta or Croatia, weather plays a big part in your decision. Luckily, both destinations offer plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures, especially during the summer months.
In Malta, you’ll find a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters. During the peak of summer, you can expect temperatures to reach around 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius), while winter temperatures are usually around 59 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius). It’s sunny most of the year, with the sunniest months being April to September.
Croatia also boasts a Mediterranean climate, particularly along the Dalmatian Coast. Summers here are hot, with temperatures often climbing to 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius). Winters are cooler and can drop to around 41 degrees Fahrenheit (5 degrees Celsius). The summer months from May to September offer the most sunshine.
In conclusion, if you’re seeking sunny skies and warm temperatures, both Malta and Croatia have you covered. The key is choosing the time of year that best suits your weather preferences.
Safety
Ensuring your safety is paramount when traveling, and both Malta and Croatia are considered safe destinations.
Malta is known for its friendly and welcoming locals. Crime rates are relatively low, making it a safe choice for travelers. That said, it’s still important to practice common sense and take basic safety precautions like you would at home.
Croatia is also seen as a safe country to visit. The locals are generally friendly and helpful to tourists. As always, stay alert and be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
Aside from crime-related safety, both destinations are also safe in terms of health and environmental factors. Medical facilities are readily available, and there are no significant natural hazards to worry about.
Whether you choose Malta or Croatia, rest assured that you’re picking a safe destination. Just remember to be aware of your surroundings and stay cautious.
Cost
Budgeting for your trip is important, and the cost of travel can vary between Malta and Croatia. Both countries are relatively affordable compared to other European destinations, but there are some differences in the prices of food, transportation, and accommodation.
In Malta, the cost of living is relatively low compared to other European countries. A typical meal at a restaurant might cost around 15 Euros ($17), while a local bus ticket costs around 1.5 Euros ($1.7).
If you want to stay in a hotel, the average price for a couple is €170 ($188) per night. You can also find cheaper options such as hostels or Airbnb rooms, which can start from €20 ($22) per night. Malta also has some attractions that are free or low-cost, such as the beaches, the historic cities of Valletta and Mdina, and the prehistoric temples.
Croatia is also quite affordable for travelers. You can expect to pay about 12 Euros ($14) for a meal at a local restaurant, and public transportation typically costs around 10 Kuna ($1.5).
The average hotel price for a couple in Croatia is €100 ($110) per night, but you can also find cheaper options such as hostels or Airbnb rooms, which can start from €15 ($17) per night. Croatia also has some attractions that are free or low-cost, such as the national parks, the old towns of Dubrovnik and Split, and the islands.
So, whether you’re enjoying a meal in Malta or taking a bus in Croatia, both destinations offer good value for your money. As always, costs can vary depending on the season, the location, and your personal preferences, so it’s best to budget accordingly.
Which Is Better – Malta or Croatia?
As you’re planning your next vacation, choosing between Malta and Croatia can be a daunting task. Both offer a rich history and culture, stunning beaches, enjoyable activities, and delicious cuisine. But the best choice for you might depend on your specific interests and preferences.
If you’re a history and culture enthusiast, you’ll find both Malta and Croatia overflowing with historical sites and cultural treasures.
Malta’s mysterious prehistoric temples and historic cities make it a great choice. However, Croatia’s vibrant ancient cities like Dubrovnik, with its fortified walls and distinctive red-tiled roofs, could be more appealing if you’re interested in medieval history.
When it comes to activities and attractions, both destinations offer a wealth of options. Croatia, with its beautiful national parks and iconic city walls, might be a better fit if you’re more into outdoor adventures. On the other hand, Malta’s unique attractions, such as its ancient temples and palaces, make it a great choice for those seeking a trip down memory lane.
For beach lovers, Malta’s picturesque bays and azure waters might be more appealing. Croatia also boasts stunning beaches, but its distinctive rocky coastline, dotted with pebble beaches, might be more suited for those who enjoy unique landscapes.
If you’re a foodie, you might find Malta’s unique blend of Mediterranean cuisines fascinating. But if you fancy a more diverse nightlife, Croatia might have the upper hand with its vibrant coastal towns.
In terms of family-friendliness and children’s activities, both destinations shine. Malta, with its compact size and family-friendly attractions, can be an ideal choice for families. In contrast, Croatia’s varied landscapes provide a great setting for a host of outdoor activities that kids will love.
In conclusion, both Malta and Croatia have their own unique charm. Your decision may come down to your personal preferences. Whether you’re looking for historical and cultural treasures, adventurous activities, stunning beaches, delicious food, or family-friendly experiences, you’re sure to find it in either of these wonderful destinations. Safe travels on your next adventure!
