If you’ve never been to Malta, Valletta should be your first port of call. Officially the sunniest city in Europe, exploring the Maltese capital is like wandering through an open-air museum. Among its 320 monuments, the most famous is Saint John’s Co-Cathedral, which is home to the only signed Caravaggio painting in the world. And if that doesn’t impress you, its gold archways certainly will. 

Then, there’s the Grand Harbour, which is exactly as impressive as its name suggests. Appreciate this magnificent structure from the Upper Barrakka Gardens, and if you time your visit for 12pm or 4pm you may just witness cannons being fired as part of the daily Saluting Battery.

In the evening, enjoy DJ sets on the waterfront at Q Bar or make a beeline for the city’s only British bar, The Pub. Famous for its naval memorabilia, this spot is known for being the place where actor Oliver Reed sipped his final drink. If it’s nightlife you’re after, look no further than The George in St Julian’s whose swanky rooftop bar is only open to hotel guests.

After exploring its cities, it’s time to discover Gozo’s beautiful coastline. If you're after stunning vistas, the walk from Valley of Nadur to Ramla Bay is a great option during the cooler winter months. Prefer to take advantage of Malta's wet activities? There’s still plenty of fun to be had in the water too, from surfing to kayaking.

But by far, Gozo’s biggest draw is its diving, with the low season promising bigger fish sightings and deserted waters. The area's sites won't disappoint either. Voted the 2nd best in the world for their high visibility and amazing submerged scenery, get ready for mesmerising underwater adventures.

Just a short ferry ride away is Comino’s Blue Lagoon, whose clear waters are a diver's dream. And no self-respecting guide to Malta would fail to mention the Blue Hole in Dwejra. Located near the Azure Reef, Malta’s famous fallen arch, this sunken cave is home to everything from parrotfish to moray eel.