Wandering in Wonder: Italy, Sicily & Malta

There’s something incredibly liberating about packing your bags, boarding a plane alone, and diving headfirst into the unknown. This solo journey, spanning 13 days across Italy, Sicily, and Malta, was born from a simple desire – to chase culture, color, history, and a little chaos. From the surreal spectacle of Venice Carnival to sipping wine in the hills of Tuscany, hiking Cinque Terre’s rugged coastline, walking through volcanic craters in Sicily, and soaking in the golden glow of Valletta’s old-world charm – every moment was a postcard come to life.

Travel Trivia & Quick Guide:

💶 Currency

• Italy & Sicily: Euro (€)
• Malta: Euro (€)

🌐 Languages Spoken

• Italy & Sicily: Italian (regional dialects in Sicily)
• Malta: Maltese & English (both official)

📍 Capital Cities

• Italy: Rome
• Sicily: Palermo (regional capital)
• Malta: Valletta

☎️ Country Codes

• Italy & Sicily: +39
• Malta: +356

🛂 Visa

• Schengen Visa Required (for Indian passport holders and many non-EU travelers).
  • Covers both Italy and Malta, as both are Schengen countries.
  • Apply at least 4-5 weeks in advance.

🧾 Travel Insurance

• Mandatory for Schengen Visa.
• Get a policy with minimum €30,000 coverage, including medical and emergency repatriation.

✈️ Flights

• International connections via hubs like Istanbul, Rome, or Frankfurt.
• Domestic travel in Italy is cheap via Ryanair, ITA Airways, or Vueling.
• Short regional flights (like Catania to Malta) are available and affordable.
• I flew via Turkish Airlines from India to Venice, Italy and Valletta, Malta to India.
• The internal flights I took were from Florence to Catania, Sicily via Rome (ITA Airways), Catania to Valletta, Malta (Ryanair).

🚆 Transport Within Countries and Day Trips

• Italy:
  • Regional trains: Trenitalia or Italo (book in advance for deals)
  • Buses (Flixbus) & metros in cities like Florence, Venice, and Rome
• Sicily:
  • Buses (Interbus, AST), taxis, or rented car with driver
• Malta:
  • Extensive and reliable public bus network, ferries, Bolt rides
  • A fun mini tourist train in Valletta!
• Day Trips:
  • GetYourGuide, and Klook are great platforms to book trips for half day/full day
  • I took the following 4 day trips via GetYourGuide:
• a) Venice: Murano, Burano, Torcello, and Glass Factory Tour
• b) Florence: Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano, and Chianti Experience
• c) Florence: Cinque Terre Day Trip with Optional Hike
• d) Catania: Mount Etna Morning or Sunset Day Trip with Tasting

🏨 Stay

• Italy & Malta: Budget-friendly hostels, boutique B&Bs, and mid-range hotels available
• Great platforms: Booking.com, Hostelworld, Airbnb
• I stayed at the following places, booked them all via Booking.com:
• Italy – Venice – Anda Venice Hostel – 4 nights
• Italy – Florence – Plus Florence – 4 nights
• Sicily – Catania – Urban Pop 2 BnB – 2 nights
• Malta – Valletta – Mandera’s Boutique Suites & Dorms – 2 nights

🌤️ Weather & Best Time to Go

👉 I went during late winter/early spring (Feb-Mar) – a sweet spot for fewer crowds + Carnival festivities!

🌍 Bordering Countries (Italy)

• France, Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia (and by sea: Croatia, Tunisia)
• Malta is an island nation south of Sicily – no land borders

🍕 Cuisines to Try (I am an eggetarian, so I don’t eat meat/sea food)

• Italy & Sicily:
  • Pasta (Carbonara, Pesto, Pici), Pizza (Napoli, Sicilian), Gelato, Cannoli, Arancini, Chianti wine
• Malta:
  • Pastizzi (cheesy pastry), Ftira (Maltese sandwich), Rabbit Stew, Kinnie (bittersweet soft drink), fresh seafood

Here is my day wise itinerary for you!

Day 1 – 28th Feb 2025: Flight to Venice via Istanbul

The trip began with having an idli plate at Vaango at Mumbai airport – terminal 2 before boarding my flight to Istanbul.

IndiGo, true to its reputation, arrived late in Istanbul, causing me to miss my connecting flight to Venice. Fortunately, Turkish Airlines re-booked me on the next available flight, free of charge.

During my layover, I wandered around the airport, soaking in the festive Ramadan atmosphere. At one of the duty-free shops, I bought up a fridge magnet as a little keepsake. I connected to the airport TK WiFi using my Turkish Airlines flight details and treated myself to a delicious croissant filled with cream and strawberry, a sweet little indulgence.

Onboard the flight to Venice, I was served a warm meal of pasta, salad, a bun, and fresh orange juice. A little girl seated next to me greeted me with the sweetest smile, making the journey all the more pleasant. Upon landing, immigration was a breeze, taking just about ten minutes.

However, the travel gods had other plans, my luggage didn’t arrive. After waiting in vain for 45 minutes at the baggage carousel, I joined the crowd at the Lost and Found section. It took three hours before I could finally file a report. The airline assured me that my bag would arrive the following morning at my hostel.

Needing a pick-me-up, I grabbed a cappuccino at the airport before catching the ATVO bus to Mestre. From there, a short walk led me to my hostel, my base for exploring Venice.

For dinner, I headed to da Michele Ristorante Pizzeria, where I enjoyed a classic plate of Spaghetti Aglio-e-Olio, simple yet packed with flavor, followed by a delightful serving of tiramisu to end the meal on a sweet note.

Back at the hostel, the atmosphere was buzzing, travelers exchanging stories, music playing, people dancing and a lively energy that made the long day feel worth it.

Despite the hiccups, the adventure had begun. Venice, I was finally here!

Day 2 – 1st March 2025: Magic of Venice Carnival at St. Mark’s Square

After a cozy breakfast at the hostel, the morning started on a lovely note as I met a group of amazing girls from my hostel, Erica from Brazil, Chloe from the Philippines (now living in France), Sarah from France, Frenchy from the US, and Gabriella from Ecuador. They were all incredibly sweet, and we navigated the city together.

We took the train, making our way to the heart of Venice, St. Mark’s Square, wandering through the city’s enchanting alleys and countless bridges. Along the way, we stopped to admire the beauty of St. Stefano Square, Grand Canal, the iconic waterway that snakes through Venice, offering scenic views of the city’s historic buildings, and crossed the famous Rialto Bridge, Venice’s oldest and most famous bridge. One of the highlights was visiting Teatro La Fenice, the elegant opera house where history and culture come alive in the heart of Venice.

Venice’s charm was amplified by the festive atmosphere, and I couldn’t help but feel immersed in the cultural magic of the Carnival. Of course, no trip to Venice during Carnival would be complete without clicking photos with the stunningly dressed, masked performers roaming the streets, it truly felt like stepping into a fairy tale dream.

The Venice carnival is 95% made by masked and costumed people who were here again this year from all over the world and represent the true magic of the Venice carnival. The largest concentration of masked and costumed people is in and around Saint Mark’s Square, but you’ll also meet costumed groups in many other squares in Venice. The 2025 Venice Carnival’s Theme was: “In the time of Casanova”.

I picked up a few souvenirs, including a Venetian mask and a fridge magnet, to remember this magical day. Food, as always, was a highlight. A delicious plate of pasta with tiramisu made for a perfect lunch at a cozy local eatery called Aldo Pasta. Later, a cappuccino and a rich chocolate pastry at Cafe Brasília provided the perfect evening break.

As the day wound down, I took the train back to Mestre while having a dinner of fruit salad at Relax & Caffe, grateful for the friendships, the laughter, and the unforgettable experience of Venice’s Carnival.

Day 3 – 2nd March 2025: Half-day trip to Murano (glass factory) and Burano (colorful houses & delicate lacework)

The day began with a hearty breakfast at the hostel before heading out to explore more of Venice. First stop – getting a local Digi mobile SIM card for 15 euros (100 GB/30 days within Italy), ensuring I stayed connected throughout my trip. At the station, I met a friendly girl from Brazil who surprised me by saying I didn’t look Indian. We ended up traveling together to San Marco Square, sharing stories along the way.

Opting for a vaporetto ride to San Marco, I soaked in the stunning views of Venice from the water – an experience that never gets old. Despite running late for my GetYourGuide tour, the organizers were kind enough to let me join the afternoon session, saving the day.

The highlight of the trip was exploring Murano and Burano. In Murano, I watched an artisan skillfully craft delicate glass pieces using glass blowing technique in a glass factory, a fascinating tradition passed down for generations. Then, in Burano, I strolled past its famous vibrantly colored houses and admired the intricate lacework the island is known for. A stop at Gelateria Da Geremia was a must – pistachio and chocolate gelato made for the perfect sweet treat.

Along the way, I picked up a few fridge magnets, including one from a Bengali shopkeeper from Bangladesh, adding to my growing collection of travel souvenirs. Later, while walking around St. Mark’s Square, a group of five Carnival-dressed women warmly invited me to join them inside the historic Florian Caffè, where I enjoyed a luxurious cup of hot chocolate – a quintessential Venetian experience.

The best surprise of the day? My luggage finally arrived at the hostel! 🥳 Celebrating with a couple of pizza slices and fresh orange juice, I spent the evening soaking in the hostel’s live music, rounding off an eventful and heartwarming day in Venice.

Day 4 – 3rd March 2025: A Day of Venice’s Iconic Landmarks and Carnival Magic

The day started with a nourishing breakfast at the hostel before heading out to explore more of Venice’s historic treasures. A quick stop at Rizzo for a delicious tiramisu set the perfect tone for the morning.

Taking a boat to Venezia Santa Lucia, I wandered through the city’s charming streets, stopping by Chiesa di San Simeon Piccolo and San Geremia Cathedral, each showcasing stunning architecture and rich history. In Campo Santa Fosca, I paused at the Paolo Sarpi statue, a reminder of Venice’s deep intellectual and cultural heritage.

Of course, no visit to Venice is complete without admiring its most famous landmarks – St. Mark’s Basilica, the breathtaking Ponte di Rialto, and the legendary Bridge of Sighs, each one telling a story of Venice’s grandeur.

Taking a break at Relax & Caffè, I enjoyed a refreshing fruit salad, followed later by a comforting cappuccino and a Pomodoro Mozzarella Olive snack – a perfect way to refuel.

After a long day of sightseeing, I returned to the hostel for a fun and lively karaoke night, but exhaustion took over, and I called it an early night, ready for my travel the next day.

Day 5 – 4th March 2025: Immersing in the Spectacle of Viareggio Carnival

Travel plans took an unexpected turn when my Italo train from Venice to Florence was canceled, but luck was on my side – I was seamlessly transferred to a Frecciarossa train at no extra cost. The journey turned out to be quite comfortable, with complimentary water, coffee, and a sweet treat making the ride even better.

Upon arriving at Florence station, I indulged in a delicious cheesecake with fruit and biscuit + Al Caffè – flavored gelato from Venchi – a perfect little pick-me-up. A quick coffee break at Coffee and Bakery with a cappuccino and chips gave me the energy boost I needed before continuing my journey.

Took a train from Florence to Viareggio to experience the renowned Carnival! Before heading out to explore, I stored my luggage at a shop conveniently located opposite the train station, keeping in mind that it closed at 8 PM. While wandering through the charming streets, I took a moment to visit Chiesa San Paolino, a beautiful cathedral steeped in history.

Next Stop – Experiencing the magic of the Carnival! 🙂 Viareggio Carnival is one of the most important and famous Carnival in Italy, first organized in 1873! It is a vibrant celebration featuring six grand parades from February to March, where colossal, colorfully decorated papier-mâché wagons take over the streets. These towering floats, over 20 meters high, showcase intricate, satirical designs inspired by current events, crafted by master artisans who have perfected their skills over generations.

Each parade dazzles with a procession of 14 massive floats, costumed performers, and lively single-mask acts, bringing the spirit of Carnival to life. More than 1,000 artists and craftsmen work behind the scenes to create these incredible moving masterpieces.

As the parades unfold, spectators are left in awe, and by the end of the festival, the most spectacular float is crowned the winner. A must-experience event for anyone visiting Italy in February!

The real highlight, of course, was the lively carnival atmosphere, where I couldn’t resist grabbing a Nutella crepe – a sweet treat that perfectly complemented the festive vibes.

Later at night, I took the train back to Florence, and after a short walk, settled into my stay at Plus Florence, where I had booked for four nights, ready to explore the city’s art, history, and food scene in the coming days.

Day 6 – 5th March 2025: A Day of Art, History, and Culinary Delights in Florence

The day began with a delightful Nutella Piccolo and a fresh vegetarian salad at Icy Dot Wine, a perfect start before diving into Florence’s rich cultural heritage. First on the list was the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, with its magnificent dome designed by Brunelleschi, where I explored the Bell Tower and Museum, marveling at the intricate architecture and breathtaking views of the city.

A quick stop at Café Molinari for a creamy cappuccino provided a refreshing break before indulging in a classic Italian meal at a restaurant opposite the Duomo, featuring Spaghetti, Pasta Arrabbiata, and a Spritz – a delicious way to soak in the lively atmosphere of Florence.

Wandering through the Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge lined with jewelry shops, offering stunning views of the Arno River, I explored its charming market stalls before visiting the iconic Uffizi Gallery, home to some of the world’s most renowned masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. The afternoon continued with a visit to Palazzo Vecchio, a majestic fortress-palace housing Florence’s civic history, and Museum Del Bargello, known for its impressive collection of sculptures.

A quick stop at Captain Candy added a bit of fun while exploring colorful candies before enjoying a refreshing lime gelato at Café Maioli. The evening was spent admiring the stunning architecture of Basilica di San Lorenzo and Sagrestia Nuova, soaking in the timeless beauty of Florence.

To end the day on a delicious note, I grabbed a Margherita pizza at Black Bar, the perfect way to wrap up a day filled with art, history, and culinary delights.

Day 7 – 6th March 2025: A Scenic Day Trip Through Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano, and Chianti

Embarking on a day trip through Tuscany, I began in Pisa, home to the iconic Leaning Tower, the tower that leans precariously, making for one of Italy’s most iconic photo ops. Strolling through the stunning Piazza dei Miracoli, I admired the grand Pisa Cathedral and the beautifully detailed Baptistery, capturing the essence of this historic city. A quick souvenir stop for a fridge magnet was a must before heading to the next destination.

Next was Siena, a city steeped in medieval charm. Walking through the Piazza del Campo, I took in the impressive Torre del Mangia and the intricate Gothic architecture of Siena Cathedral, where I made a quick stop before continuing my journey.

The medieval hilltop town of San Gimignano was a true highlight, with its towering skyline and charming cobblestone streets. I couldn’t resist indulging in a five-scoop gelato from the famous Gelateria Dondoli, savoring unique flavors like wild berries, ricotta with blueberries, the aromatic rosemary baby, Santa Fina with Pisa pine nuts, and a rich blend of ricotta cheese and walnuts. Each scoop was a delightful taste of Tuscany!

Lunch in Chianti was an unforgettable Tuscan experience, set against the backdrop of rolling vineyards. A delicious spread of bruschetta, local cheese, pasta, and a tasting of Chianti’s renowned red and white wines made for a perfect break in the countryside.

To wrap up the day, I stopped at a 1950s American Diner, where the retro vibe came to life as the waitress glided around on skates, adding a fun and lively touch to the experience, indulging in vegetarian tacos and a cappuccino.

Day 8 – 7th March 2025: A Day Trip to Cinque Terre: Exploring the Five Colorful Villages

I kicked off the day with a delightful breakfast at Dini Caffè, enjoying a pistachio croissant, fresh orange juice, and a rich dark chocolate tart, the perfect start to an adventure-filled day.

Joining Walk About Tours, I embarked on an unforgettable day trip to Cinque Terre, discovering the charm of its five picturesque villages while enjoying scenic hikes and breathtaking coastal views.

The journey began in La Spezia, gateway to Cinque Terre, where I grabbed a smoothie and mango juice at MCD before heading to the first village.

In Manarola, the colorful buildings perched along steep cliffs above the sea were a sight to behold. The stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the colorful cliffside villages were absolutely mesmerizing.

In Corniglia, a village nestled on a hill offering spectacular coastal views, I wandered through charming alleyways, picking up handmade lemon soaps and a fridge magnet as souvenirs. A refreshing basil and lemon gelato was the perfect treat before continuing on.

Vernazza, a picturesque fishing village with a charming harbor, where I indulged in a classic Italian lunch of spaghetti in tomato sauce at Gianni Franzi, savoring the flavors with a stunning seaside view.

At Monterosso al Mare, the largest village of Cinque Terre, boasted a sandy beach and beautiful promenade, I browsed the quaint shops and picked up a thoughtful pair of socks before heading to the final village, Riomaggiore, just in time to witness a mesmerizing sunset over the Ligurian Sea – a truly magical moment. It was a breathtaking experience from start to finish.

Back at the hostel, I wrapped up the day with a simple dinner of crispy French fries, reflecting on the beauty and adventure of Cinque Terre’s rugged coastline, colorful villages, and incredible food.

Day 9 – 8th March 2025: Journey to Sicily: Arriving in Catania

The day began with a buffet breakfast at the hostel, fueling up before catching a bus to the airport for my flight to Catania, Sicily, with a short stop in Rome.

Upon arriving in Catania, I grabbed a quick bite at Sicilia’s Bar & Restaurant at the airport, savoring a freshly baked pizza and a refreshing orange juice. From there, I hopped on the Alibus airport shuttle to reach my hostel, settling in for the Sicilian leg of my journey.

After checking in, I wandered through the city in the evening, picking up a set of fridge magnets as souvenirs. A self-serve vending machine latte was a small but comforting break before dinner. To wrap up the day, I indulged in a classic Caprese salad and a rich tiramisu at Lettera 82 Gielle, a delicious introduction to Sicilian flavors.

Day 10 – 9th March 2025: Exploring Mt. Etna, Cassone Caves & Catania’s Historic Landmarks

The day began with a half-day trip to Mt. Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, where we embarked on a snow trek across the vast, untouched volcanic terrain. With no one else in sight, it felt like walking on another planet – just 8 girls with our guide, the crisp mountain air, and the crunch of fresh snow beneath our boots.

As we hiked, we passed by majestic craters, remnants of past eruptions, their rugged edges contrasting against the glistening white landscape. The journey led us to the Cassone Caves, adding an extra layer of mystery to this surreal and unforgettable experience.

The Cassone Caves, nestled on the slopes of Mt. Etna, are a fascinating natural formation shaped by ancient lava flows. As we trekked through the snow-covered volcanic landscape, we stumbled upon these hidden lava tubes, which once carried molten lava beneath the surface. Stepping inside, we were greeted by an eerie silence, broken only by the occasional sound of melting ice dripping from the cave’s ceiling.

The cave’s dark, rugged walls bore testament to Etna’s powerful eruptions, with unique rock formations revealing the passage of time. The contrast between the icy surroundings outside and the dark, lava-hardened interior made it feel like entering another world. Exploring the Cassone Caves was like stepping into the heart of the volcano itself – a thrilling and surreal experience that added a new layer of wonder to our Etna adventure.

After returning to Catania, I took a break with a fresh orange juice and a delicious pistachio tart, followed by a taste of Assai Chocolate Modica Cacao, a specialty of Sicily.

Back in the city, I spent the evening admiring Catania’s architectural gems, starting with the Dome of the Abbey of Saint Agatha, offering breathtaking panoramic views. I also visited the Basilica Cattedrale di Catania, Chiesa della Badia di Sant’Agata, and Basilica della Collegiata, each showcasing stunning Baroque artistry.

To end the day, I indulged in a hearty Italian dinner at Lettera 82, enjoying a flavorful plate of Spaghetti aglio e olio, baked potatoes with cheese, cappuccino, and a decadent tiramisu – a perfect conclusion to a day filled with adventure and history.

Day 11 – 10th March 2025: Journey to Malta: Exploring Valletta’s Historic Charm

The day began with a refreshing orange juice at the hostel before heading to the airport for my flight to Malta. A quick stop for a cappuccino at the airport and a nutrient-packed açaí power breakfast packed with açaí, blueberries, strawberries, banana, probiotic kefir, almond butter, strawberry sorbet, and coconut milk upon arrival at Dr. Juice set the perfect tone for the day.

From the airport, I took a bus to Valletta, soaking in the first glimpses of the island’s charm. To stay connected, I picked up an Epic SIM card, ensuring smooth navigation throughout my trip.

A quick stop at Spar supermarket provided some berry juice, pizza hummus, and feta, perfect for a light snack before exploring Malta’s historic capital.

Valletta, Malta’s historic capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage city filled with stunning Baroque architecture, grand palaces, and breathtaking views.

Valletta’s rich history unfolded as I wandered through its charming streets, visiting landmarks such as the Court of Justice, the Basilica of Saint Dominic & Porto Salvo, the Grandmaster Palace Courtyard, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Each site told a story of Malta’s past, with stunning architecture and a timeless atmosphere.

To wind down the evening, I stopped by Rocks Winebar for a delicious serving of vegetarian nachos and a cold frappe, a perfect way to end my first day in Malta.

Day 12 – 11th March 2025: A Day of Exploring Malta’s Historic Charm

The day began with a delightful ride on the Malta Fun Train, a scenic way to take in Valletta’s charming streets and historic landmarks.

I visited St. John’s Cathedral, a magnificent baroque cathedral famous for its elaborate interior and works by Caravaggio. I also took in the Grand Harbour view from Upper Barrakka Gardens, which offered breathtaking views over the harbor.

For lunch, I stopped by Manouche Bakery, located opposite St. John’s Cathedral, where I enjoyed a delicious chèvre avocado toast, a refreshing summer dream drink with apple, watermelon, lemon, pink grapefruit, and strawberries, and a flavorful chive omelet.

Later, I indulged in traditional Maltese gelato infused with mixed fruits and nuts, a sweet taste of the island’s heritage. A bit of souvenir shopping followed, including fridge magnets, a glass mirror keepsake, and a postcard to remember the trip.

The evening was spent sipping a caramel latte at Café Castille, a cozy spot perfect for soaking in Valletta’s atmosphere.

Later on, I found a peaceful retreat at Lower Barrakka Gardens, a charming spot overlooking the harbor. The golden hues of sunset added to the serene ambiance, making it the perfect place to unwind.

The neoclassical Siege Bell War Memorial stood tall against the backdrop of the sea, a quiet reminder of Malta’s resilience. With a gentle breeze and panoramic views, it was a beautiful way to end the day.

Day 13 – 12th March 2025: Return to India with loads of memories

On the final day of my journey, I had a peaceful morning at Malta Airport, enjoying a healthy and refreshing Green and Mean Juice from Dr. Juice, a nutrient-packed blend of banana, avocado, spinach, spirulina, dates, chia, hemp, flax, pressed ginger, and almond milk. Alongside it, I had a delicious cacao and coconut energy ball, made with almonds, raisins, cacao powder, coconut, and dates – a perfect healthy snack before my flight.

A quick stop in Istanbul gave me a chance to indulge in some Baklava before the long journey home. Reflecting on my incredible 13-day adventure, I felt grateful for all the memories made and the beautiful places I had visited.

This solo trip through Italy, Sicily, and Malta was an unforgettable journey filled with adventure, culture, and new friendships. From the festive Venice Carnival to the serene beauty of Malta, every day brought something new. Traveling solo gave me the freedom to explore at my own pace, and it was truly a trip of a lifetime.

As I flew back home, tired but full-hearted, I realized solo travel isn’t about being alone – it’s about being completely present. It’s about conversations with strangers who become friends, getting lost and finding something better, and proving to yourself that you can handle whatever the world throws your way.

These 13 days gave me more than memories – they gave me clarity, courage, and a spark I’ll carry into whatever adventure comes next. Whether you’re planning a similar route or just dreaming for now, I hope this travel diary inspires you to take that leap. The world is waiting-and it’s beautiful. 🙂