We return to picturesque Malta for the annual Opera Festival at the Teatru Manoel in Valletta. The theatre was commissioned and funded in 1731 by António Manoel de Vilhena, Grand Master of the Knights of Malta, and is a jewel of Malta’s national heritage. Our visit includes a double bill of Rachmaninoff’s Aleko and Rossini’s La Cambiale di Matrimonio, and a full production of Alcina by Handel, as well as the chance to discover all that this delightful country has to offer.


Thu 18 Mar Afternoon arrival in Malta and transfer to the 5-star Hotel Le Meridien Phoenicia, an elegant hotel situated just outside the city walls of ancient Valletta. After check-in, transfer to a welcome dinner in a traditional Maltese farmhouse restaurant.

Fri 19 Mar Today we visit Mdina, ‘the Silent City’, the medieval capital of Malta. Some of the best Norman and baroque architecture lies within its narrow winding streets, and the spectacular Cathedral is a particular highlight. We continue to the Ta Qali crafts village where one may admire and buy the traditional glass and filigree work of the island. There is also the opportunity to visit the Ta Qali Aviation Museum which commemorates the RAF’s participation in the defence of Malta during the Second World War. Return to Valletta for an afternoon at leisure. Evening performance at Teatru Manoel.

Sat 20 Mar Join your guide for a walking tour of the historical centre of Valletta. Important sites of interest include St John’s Co-Cathedral, Malta’s most famous monument to the glorious era of the Knights of St John, and the Palace of the Grand Masters. Completed in 1574, the Palace was the administrative headquarters of the Order of St John. Today it is filled with tapestries, paintings and furnishings which reflect the varied history of the rule of the country. Afternoon at leisure. This evening we return to Mdina for a private recital in the Cathedral, followed by dinner in a traditional restaurant.

Sun 21 Mar Full-day excursion to Gozo, Malta’s sister island which lies just a 15-minute ferry ride away. During this excursion we visit the renowned Ggantija temples, the citadel in the capital Victoria and admire the stunning landscape. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. Return to Valletta for a free evening.

Mon 22 Mar This morning we return to the Teatru Manoel for a backstage tour. Reputed to be one of the oldest working theatres in Europe, your tour will highlight the history of this theatrical gem. Afternoon at leisure before the evening performance.

Tue 23 Mar Morning at leisure. Afternoon transfer to the airport for your homeward flight.

Flights: Air Malta

Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.