Malta & Zypern kombinieren

About the destination: The Maltese Islands are a melting pot of different cultures that have each played a part in shaping our history, heritage, and lifestyle. While there remains an innate “Malteseness” in everything that we do, influences from past rulers can still be observed in our day-to-day lives. Our language is derived from Semitic roots with Italian influences and is the only language of its kind that is written in Latin script; our Capital City – Valletta – and the Islands’ fortifications, were built by the Order of the Knights of St John; our national flag bears the George Cross, an award for the country’s display of valour during the Second World War, during which Malta served as the naval base for the British; and the list goes on. 8000 years of history are condensed into an island of just 316 square kilometres, so history can be found in every corner of the island. From the oldest free-standing temple structures of the Megalithic Temples and the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum to incredible feats of fortified architecture like the “silent” city of Mdina and the Capital City of Valletta, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, you will also find that there is a more modern side to the Maltese Islands too. After over 160 years of British rule, Malta became an Independent nation in 1964. Since then, the Island has continued to develop into the warm and welcoming Island that we know today. From beautiful sunny beaches, to fun-filled leisure activities, luxurious experiences and, of course, historical, and cultural excursions, the Maltese Islands have something to offer to every type of traveller. An open, safe, and multicultural destination, Malta has always been a melting pot that embraces a diversity of cultures. Today, our country is one of the most inclusive places in the world, happily welcoming thousands of travellers of all kinds, shapes, sizes, colours, and creeds every year. Malta Facts • The Maltese Islands boast 300 days of sunshine throughout the year. • Malta is less than a three hour flight away from most major European airports. • The island’s total area covers just 316 km squared, meaning travel times are often kept under 20 minutes! • Maltese and English are the two official languages on the island, although many people are also fluent in Italian. • The Capital City, Valletta, was the European Capital of Culture in 2018 and is one of three UNESCO World Heritage Sites found on the island. • Malta joined the European Union on 1st May 2004 & adopted the Euro on New Year’s Day, 2008.

About the destination: Larnaca, one of Cyprus’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, blends laid-back seaside charm with a deep sense of history. The city’s heart is its palm-fringed Finikoudes Promenade, lined with cafés, tavernas and bars that overlook a long sandy beach and calm, shallow waters. Strolling here at sunset offers a relaxed introduction to local life, as families, couples and fishermen all share the same coastal walkway. Just a few streets inland, you’ll find the atmospheric Church of Saint Lazarus, a 9th‑century Byzantine gem that houses the reputed tomb of Lazarus. Its stone façade and ornate iconostasis make it one of the island’s most important religious sites. From here, narrow lanes lead into the old Turkish quarter of Skala, where whitewashed houses, artisan workshops and small galleries reveal a quieter, traditional side of Larnaca. Nature lovers should head to the nearby Larnaca Salt Lake, a vast shimmering expanse that turns pink in winter when flocks of flamingos and other migratory birds arrive. A walking path circles part of the lake, offering peaceful views and a direct route to the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque, an important Muslim shrine set among palm trees and cypress groves. In summer, although the lake dries up, its cracked, white surface creates an otherworldly landscape worth seeing. Beyond the city, Larnaca makes an excellent base for exploring Cyprus’s eastern coast. Golden beaches at Mackenzie, Oroklini or nearby Ayia Napa and Protaras are within easy reach, offering crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Divers are drawn to the famous Zenobia wreck, one of the Mediterranean’s top dive sites, lying just off the Larnaca coast. With its combination of heritage, coastal relaxation and easy day trips, Larnaca is a rewarding destination for both short city breaks and longer island stays.