Take a well-earned break in beautiful Malta this autumn, where gentle Mediterranean sunshine, stunning coastal views, and charming streets set the scene for pure relaxation. This holiday is designed for unwinding at your own pace while meeting like-minded people — enjoy leisurely walks, shared meals, and relaxed afternoons by the sea with new friends. It’s the perfect combination of calm, connection, and carefree days in a stunning island setting.
St. Julian's is a vibrant, bustling seaside town, renowned for its energetic nightlife in Paceville, diverse dining, and scenic bays like Spinola and Balluta. It balances a modern tourist, nightlife-focused vibe with traditional fishing village charm, with excellent shopping and a central location near Valletta and Sliema.
From our location in St Julian's it is a short bus journey to Valletta or if you are a feeling a little more energetic it's about 40 minutes to to walk to the Sliema ferry terminal for a short trip across the harbour to Valetta probably the most scenic route to the capital city.
Valletta is regularly named among the top places to visit in Europe. The gorgeous streets of Valletta are abundantly rich in sites to see and explore, lined with intriguing historical buildings: votive statues, niches, fountains and coats of arms high up on parapets. The narrow side streets are full of pretty shops, cafés and restaurants, and down every street you’ll be able to see the distinct enclosed balconies that Valletta is renowned for.
St. John’s Co-Cathedral, at the heart of Valletta, contains two masterpieces by Caravaggio and is a gem of Baroque art and architecture. Every corner is a myriad 16th and 17th century art. This cathedral is one of the most magnificent buildings you’ll probably ever see!
Right across the majestic Grand Harbour from Valletta are the Three Cities- Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua – collectively known as Cottonera. The oldest of the Three Cities is Birgu, which has existed since the Middle Ages. These fortified cities, that were once vital to Malta’s defence, are now quaint neighbourhoods, perfect for exploring. You can also take the ferry across the Grand Harbour to get the best view of Valletta from the sea.
A must-see in Cottonera is Fort St. Angelo, a bastioned fort in Birgu, which is located at the centre of the Grand Harbour. It was originally built in the medieval period as a castle and was rebuilt by the Order of Saint John as a bastioned fort called Fort Saint Angelo. The fort has recently been meticulously restored and is now a major tourist attraction.
Heading further afield getting around the island is easy on the network of well connected public transport and you can have your pick from the many harbour cruises that depart along the promenade in Sliema.
Plan your time with this suggested itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival and a Gentle Introduction
After arrival and check-in, take a relaxed walk around Spinola Bay, a charming harbour with colourful fishing boats and waterside cafés.
Continue along the promenade towards Balluta Bay for sea views and fresh air.
Enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the many waterfront restaurants, easing into the Maltese pace of life.
Day 2 – Valletta and the Grand Harbour
Spend the day in Valletta, Malta’s elegant capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlights include St. John’s Co-Cathedral, renowned for its ornate interior, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens, offering sweeping views across the Grand Harbour.
In the afternoon, consider a short harbour cruise for a relaxing way to appreciate Valletta’s fortifications from the water. Alternatively, explore the historic streets at your own pace, stopping for coffee in one of the city’s traditional cafés.
Day 3 – Mdina, Rabat and Rural Malta
Travel inland to Mdina, the former capital known as the Silent City. Its narrow lanes, honey-coloured stone buildings and panoramic views make it one of Malta’s most atmospheric locations.
Just outside the city walls lies Rabat, where you may wish to visit the historic catacombs or enjoy lunch in a traditional Maltese restaurant.
Return to St Julian’s for a relaxed evening at the hotel or by the sea.
Day 4 – Coastal Scenery and the Blue Grotto
Discover Malta’s dramatic southern coastline. Visit the famous Blue Grotto, where small boats take visitors into sea caves known for their vivid blue waters (weather permitting).
Continue to the fishing village of Marsaxlokk, known for its traditional luzzu boats and relaxed waterfront atmosphere. It is an ideal spot for a seafood lunch.
Day 5 – Gozo: Malta’s Sister Island
Take the ferry to Gozo, an island known for its rural charm and slower pace.
Visit Victoria’s Citadel for panoramic views, explore picturesque villages and enjoy the island’s unspoilt countryside. Gozo offers a quieter contrast to mainland Malta and is well suited to a full day of gentle exploration.
Day 6 – Gardens, Crafts and Local Heritage
Visit the historic San Anton Gardens, a peaceful setting ideal for a morning stroll.
Continue to the artisan village of Ta' Qali Crafts Village, where local glassblowers and craftspeople showcase traditional Maltese skills.
The afternoon can be spent at leisure back in St Julian’s — perhaps relaxing at the hotel pool or enjoying a quiet coffee overlooking the Mediterranean.
Day 7 - Time to relax
Phew, after a busy week time to sit back and chill!
Day 8 – Leisure and Departure
Enjoy a final morning at a relaxed pace. Take one last walk along the coastal promenade or enjoy a long breakfast before departure. With its central location and comfortable surroundings, Number 11 provides an ideal base for discovering Malta’s rich history, coastal beauty and welcoming atmosphere — all without the need for late nights or busy schedules.
Number 11
For our Malta escape, we’ll be staying at Number 11 in St Julian’s — a stylish adults-only hotel that offers comfort, character and an excellent central location.
Situated in the heart of St Julian’s, the hotel provides easy access to the seafront, cafés and restaurants, making it an ideal base for exploring the island. Contemporary in design yet relaxed in atmosphere, it offers a welcoming environment that suits our Spice Escapes group perfectly.
Guests can enjoy the rooftop pool terrace — a lovely spot to unwind after a day’s sightseeing — and there is access to a nearby wellness spa for those who would like a little extra relaxation during the week.
With its convenient setting and modern facilities, Number 11 gives us the freedom to explore Malta by day while returning each evening to a comfortable and well-located base. Part of the Urban Hotels collection in Malta, it is one of three distinctive properties in St Julian’s and Sliema, known for their style and accessibility.
This hotel provides the right balance of comfort, location and atmosphere for a relaxed and enjoyable Spice Escapes getaway.
Provisional Flight Information
17/10/26 London Gatwick to Malta Dep:0620 Arr:1035
24/10/26 Malta to London Gatwick Dep:1120 Arr:1340
17/10/26 London Stansted to Malta Dep:1205 Arr:1620
24/10/26 Malta to London Stansted Dep:2105 Arr:2325
17/10/26 Birmingham to Malta Dep:0605 Arr:1020
24/10/26 Malta to Birmingham Dep:1100 Arr:1350
17/10/26 Manchester to Malta Dep:0635 Arr:1105
24/10/26 Malta to Manchester Dep:1155 Arr:1430
17/10/26 Edinburgh to Malta Dep:0640 Arr:1130
24/10/26 Malta to Edinburgh Dep:1155 Arr:1450
17/10/26 Bristol to Malta Dep:1715 Arr:2135
24/10/26 Malta to Bristol Dep:2225 Arr:0035(+1)
Included Luggage Allowance
Small Hand bag/rucksack in the cabin plus 20kg hold luggage
flights
accommodation
Not enough spaces left for you? Click here to join the waitlist
Passport validity
For UK passport holders your passport must be:
You must check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.
EU Entry/Exit System (EES)
The new Entry/Exit System (EES) will start operations on 12 October 2025. The Entry/Exit System (EES) will be deployed gradually across the external borders of the 29 European countries over a period of 6 months. These European countries will introduce the different elements of the EES in phases, including the collection of biometric data, such as facial image and fingerprints. This means that travellers’ biometric data (facial image and fingerprints) might not be collected at every border crossing point right away, and their personal information may not be registered in the system. Passports will continue to be stamped as usual.
This progressive implementation will last until 9 April 2026. From 10 April 2026, the EES will be fully operational at all external border crossing points of the European countries using the system.
Further information on the EES can be found on the following link - https://travel-europe.europa.eu/ees/ltr
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System)
Starting in end 2026 UK citizens are required to have a travel authorisation to enter 30 European countries for a short stay. ETIAS travel authorisation is linked to a traveller’s passport. It is valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. If you get a new passport, you need to get a new ETIAS travel authorisation.
With a valid ETIAS travel authorisation, you can enter the territory of these European countries as often as you want for short-term stays - normally for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, it does not guarantee entry. When you arrive, a border guard will ask to see your passport and other documents and verify that you meet the entry conditions.
NB - There is no official date for the ETIAS currently confirmed but when it is introduced it will be your responsibility to ensure that you have arranged this. We will update everyone when the ETIAS is required with information on how to apply for this online.
Travel Insurance
Please ensure that you have adequate personal travel insurance to suit your requirements in place before you travel.
A UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) gives you the right to access state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay in the European Union (EU).
UK-issued European Health Insurance Cards (EHICs) are still valid and offer the same cover as GHICs in the EU.
Once your EHIC has expired, you’ll be able to replace it with a GHIC.
NB – A GHIC/EHIC is not a replacement for travel insurance!
FCO travel guidance for Malta
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/malta
Jackie loves a party and her rock music — and she’s a pretty decent holiday host too. Sit back and relax; you’re in good hands.
12 fellow guests have already booked this trip — most come solo.
Your money is ATOL-protected under licence 9046 — if anything happens to the operator, you get your holiday or your money back.
Get a quote & book online
28 Aug 2026 – 1 Sept 2026 · 4 nights
Discover the charm of Vienna in the Summer, as the city basks in sunshine (hopefully!) and long days, lively markets, and cosy cafés. Spend your days wandering historic streets, indulging in rich coffee house culture, and soaking up the timeless beauty of Austria’s capital at your own pace.
10 Sept 2026 – 14 Sept 2026 · 4 nights
Discover the magic of Budapest and spend your days exploring historic sights, sampling local treats, and soaking up the atmosphere with a structure and unusual included itinerary but also having time for further exploration at your own pace.
15 Apr 2027 – 18 Apr 2027 · 3 nights
Known for its warm climate, rich cultural heritage, and relaxed pace of life, Lisbon is a top destination for city breaks, European getaways, and cultural holidays. From tasting authentic pastéis de nata to enjoying fresh seafood by the waterfront, the city delights food lovers as much as it does history buffs. Must-see sights include the Jerónimos Monastery, São Jorge Castle, and the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge.
Casa Agara is Spice’s exclusive Cantabrian hub — an 18th-century casona, hosted and catered, no forced single supplement.
Goes straight to the Casa Agara × Spice team — we reply within 24 hours. No commitment, no payment details.
