This stage starts in Valletta and first crosses the dense harbour area before turning south. The opening kilometres feel more urban than the Sicilian stages: short climbs, traffic, walls, junctions and repeated sightlines back toward the city. After that, Malta opens up. The route reaches the south and west of the island, with dry fields, low stone walls and higher sections close to the coast. Around Żurrieq, Qrendi and Dingli, the profile becomes more noticeable; this part of Malta is rougher, windier and less built-up. Further north, the route continues toward Mellieħa and the ferry terminal at Ċirkewwa. The crossing to Gozo breaks the riding rhythm before the road starts again from Mġarr. The final kilometres pass through smaller towns to Victoria, with the Cittadella as the clear endpoint of the day.
