9-Day Trip Itinerary: MSP to Malta to Palermo

Day 1: Departure from MSP & Arrival in Malta

Morning: Depart from Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) for your flight to Malta International Airport.

Afternoon: Arrive in Malta and check into your accommodation. Take a relaxing stroll around Valletta, Malta's historic capital.

Evening: Enjoy a welcome dinner near the Upper Barrakka Gardens, with views of the Grand Harbour at sunset.

Day 2: Explore Valletta & The Three Cities

Morning: Visit the iconic St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the Grandmaster's Palace in Valletta.

Afternoon: Take a ferry to the Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua), exploring their historic forts and waterfront.

Evening: Dine in Vittoriosa with traditional Maltese cuisine and enjoy the lively marina atmosphere.

Day 3: Mdina & Rabat

Morning: Tour the silent city of Mdina, including the Mdina Cathedral and panoramic city walls.

Afternoon: Explore the nearby town of Rabat, visiting the St. Paul's Catacombs and Roman Villa remains.

Evening: Return to Malta’s coast and enjoy sunset at St. Julian’s Bay followed by dinner.

Day 4: Blue Lagoon & Gozo Island Day Trip

Morning: Take a ferry to Gozo and swim at the pristine Blue Lagoon on Comino Island.

Afternoon: Visit Victoria (Rabat) in Gozo, including the Citadel and quaint shops.

Evening: Return to Malta and have a relaxed dinner at Gzira Waterfront.

Day 5: Travel to Palermo, Sicily

Morning: Transfer from Malta to Palermo via ferry or flight.

Afternoon: Arrive and check into your hotel. Explore Palermo’s historic center, including the Palermo Cathedral.

Evening: Sample Sicilian street food at Mercato di Ballarò and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

Day 6: Palermo Landmarks & Museums

Morning: Visit the Palazzo dei Normanni and the stunning Cappella Palatina.

Afternoon: Explore the Regional Archaeological Museum Antonio Salinas and Piazza Pretoria.

Evening: Dinner at a traditional Sicilian trattoria near Piazza Marina.

Day 7: Monreale & Coastal Palermo

Morning: Take a short trip to Monreale to marvel at the Monreale Cathedral mosaics.

Afternoon: Relax and unwind at Mondello Beach, enjoying fresh seafood by the shore.

Evening: Return to Palermo for a peaceful stroll through Quattro Canti Square.

Day 8: Day Trip to Cefalù

Morning: Take a train or drive to the charming town of Cefalù, exploring its medieval streets and the Cefalù Cathedral.

Afternoon: Enjoy the beach and climb La Rocca for sweeping views.

Evening: Return to Palermo and enjoy your final Sicilian dinner in the city center.

Day 9: Departure

Morning: Last-minute shopping or sightseeing near the Teatro Massimo.

Afternoon: Head to Falcone-Borsellino Airport for your return flight to MSP.

Evening: In-flight rest and reflection on a memorable trip.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Flight MSP to Malta - Approx. 12 hours, $700
• Malta Public Transport (3 days) - Approx. 6 hours total, $30
• Ferry to Gozo & Blue Lagoon - 4 hours, $40
• Dining in Malta - Avg. 2 hours/day, $30/day x 5 days = $150
• Flight or Ferry Malta to Palermo - 1.5 hours flight or 4 hours ferry, $80
• Palermo Public Transport & Local Tours - 6 hours total, $25
• Day trips (Monreale & Cefalù) - 8 hours total, $40
• Dining in Palermo - Avg. 2 hours/day, $35/day x 4 days = $140
• Accommodation (9 nights) - Estimated $100 per night, $900

Total Estimated Cost: $2,145

Tips

To extend your trip, consider adding extra days in Gozo or exploring more Sicilian towns such as Agrigento or Taormina for a richer experience. For a shorter trip, focus on key highlights in Valletta and Palermo, reducing time in smaller towns or skipping the day trip to Cefalù.