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Blue Grotto: Malta's Azure Wonder

Explore Malta's iconic Blue Grotto: a mesmerizing natural wonder with stunning caves, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life.

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The Blue Grotto, located on Malta's southern coast near Wied iż-Żurrieq, is a stunning natural attraction featuring a series of sea caverns with vibrant blue waters and impressive limestone arches. Boat tours offer a closer look at the illuminated caves, while clifftop views provide a panoramic perspective.

A brief summary to Blue Grotto

Local tips

  • Visit in the morning for the best sunlight and vibrant blue water effects inside the caves.
  • Bring cash for the boat tour, as card payments are not typically accepted.
  • Arrive early to avoid long lines for the boat tours, especially during peak season.
  • Be aware of individuals asking for parking fees in the free public parking lot, as they are not legitimate.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Valletta, take bus route 74 directly to the Blue Grotto. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour. Get off at the 'Panorama' bus stop for a scenic viewpoint, then walk downhill for 2 minutes to reach the Blue Grotto. A single bus ticket costs around €2.

  • Driving

    Drive to Wied iż-Żurrieq, where the Blue Grotto is located. From Valletta, it's about a 25-minute drive. Type 'Blue Grotto Malta' into your GPS or follow signs from the main road. There is a free public parking lot named 'Blue Fritzi Parking'. Parking attendants may ask for donations, but payment is not obligatory. From the parking lot, walk about 5 minutes to the harbor to purchase boat tour tickets.

  • Boat

    The final approach to the Blue Grotto is via a 20-25 minute boat tour from Wied iż-Żurrieq harbor. Tickets can be purchased at a kiosk near the jetty. The cost is €10 for adults and €5 for children, payable in cash only. The boats depart frequently from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm and take you through the Blue Grotto and other sea caves.

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Discover more about Blue Grotto

The Blue Grotto is a complex of sea caves on Malta's southern coast, near the village of Żurrieq. The name 'Blue Grotto' was given by British soldiers in the 1950s, who thought the location was similar to the Grotta Azzurra on the island of Capri in Italy. Over millennia, the relentless action of the sea carved the caves and arches from the limestone cliffs. The most famous formation is the Blue Grotto Arch, which stands 30 meters high at the main cave's entrance. The caves are famous for the brilliant blue hues created by sunlight reflecting off the white sandy seafloor. Several caverns mirror the phosphorescent colors of underwater flora and fauna, while others display deep, dark shades of blue. A boat trip is the best way to experience the beauty of the area. The tours are conducted by local fishermen who know the caves intimately. According to Maltese folklore, the Blue Grotto was once home to a sea nymph who lured fishermen into the caves with her enchanting singing. Those who succumbed to her charms met a watery fate. Today, visitors can safely explore the caves and enjoy their breathtaking beauty without fear of mythical creatures. The Blue Grotto has served as a filming location for productions such as Hell Boats, Troy, and The Amazing Race.

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