Take in a Talkie: Malta’s Oldest Cinemas

Film lover? One of the best ways to indulge this hobby abroad is to pay a visit to your holiday destination’s old cinemas. There is no better location for this than Malta where many almost forgotten cinemas are still standing. Sadly, in most cases they are no longer operating since increasingly the locals prefer to watch films at home. However, it is still a wonderful experience to visit these relics from the past which offer a glimpse into Malta’s rich cinematic history.

Citylights, Valletta

A place previously known for showing adult films, Citylights is now a huge attraction in Valletta as an exhibition space with a new vintage-style Cinema Bar. Movie buffs can enjoy screenings of classic movies from the comfort of reclaimed theatre seats whilst sipping a wine or spritzer.

Rialto, Cospicua

At the time, this important landmark was the town's largest building and was capable of seating the 1,000 people who flocked to see Richard Thorpe’s The Student Prince when the theatre opened in 1956. At the moment it is no longer in use, but there is possibly a refurbishment on the horizon as the building was listed as a Grade 2 heritage site back in 2010.

Embassy Cinemas, Valletta

The capital was a key place for movie lovers who enjoyed films at the Embassy Cinemas which only closed in the mid-1990s. Although the old theatre no longer exists, it is still possible to watch films the site where a new building was erected, complete with the latest in digital projection. This is a great spot to catch a flick in cool surroundings.

Lido Cinema, Birzebbuga

The attractive art-deco exterior draws visitors even today despite the fact that there have been no films shown here for 40 years. It has been rumoured that the cinema will be replaced with an apartment block in the near future, so be sure to visit before it’s too late!

How to Get There

Flying time from the UK into Malta International Airport (MLA) is around 3 hours with regular flights made throughout the week by a handful of carriers. A Malta airport shuttle service will be the quickest and easiest way to reach your destination and you can get dropped straight to the door of your hotel. Maltaairport shuttle service are popular, so you should always pre-book your transfer in advance of your holiday so that you can guarantee fast and easy passage to your final destination.

Malta is a fantastic destination for film lovers thanks to its rich cinematic history and range of gorgeous old cinemas found throughout the island. If you want to step back in time to an era of traditional movie theatres, you can’t choose a better place for your holiday.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct, the number one provider of shared and private airport transfers all over Europe and northern Africa. If you’re looking for an af-fordable Malta airport shuttle ser-vice Lukas and his colleagues can make sure that you and your luggage get to and from the airport swiftly and safely.