Gudja

Gudja is an inland village in southern Malta, close to Valletta and the island’s south coast. Limestone buildings, historic churches, and quiet streets give it a traditional feel, despite its proximity to Malta International Airport. From here, you can explore the capital, Malta’s historic harbours, and rocky swimming spots along the southern coast.

Direct flights from London Stansted Airport (STN) to Malta International Airport (MLA) take around 3 hours 15 minutes. Ryanair operates the route year-round, and Jet2 also flies from Stansted to Malta throughout the year, including winter months when many Mediterranean routes wind down. Additional flights are typically added during the spring and summer.

 

Visit the 17^th century, Palazzo Dorell and marvel at its historic exteriors. Although you can’t enter the palace or grounds without express permission, it is still well worth a visit. During the French Blockade of 1798–1800, it served as British military headquarters under General Graham. The palace today is a private residence.

Gudja's Parish Church of the Assumption is another focal point, built in the Baroque style. It is Malta's only parish church with three bell towers. The third, added in 1858, was built separately in the Neoclassical style. Just outside the village centre, the Chapel of Santa Marija ta' Bir Miftuħ offers a glimpse of an earlier Malta. It was already recorded as a parish church in 1436, and restoration work uncovered fragments of a 16th-century fresco.

Traditional Maltese food is easy to find across the island. Pastizzi, flaky pastries commonly filled with ricotta or peas, are a popular snack. Rabbit also plays an important role in local cuisine. You may come across the term fenkata, which refers to a traditional gathering centred around rabbit dishes.

Wash down your traditional meals with Cisk, Malta's golden lager, or one of the local wines made from indigenous grape varieties such as Girgentina and red Ġellewża.

Beyond Gudja, Malta's harbours, historic cities, and south-coast landscapes are all within easy reach. Whether you're spending time in Valletta, exploring the coastline, or discovering quieter corners of the island, there's plenty to see within a relatively small area.