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Visit Malta this winter

Sightseeing, seafood and a dose of sunshine

Don’t be fooled by Malta’s low profile! This little archipelago is often described as the Mediterranean’s best-kept secret - and for good reason. And did you know it’s perfect for a winter getaway?

So whether you’re seeking a romantic jaunt sipping exclusive wines or a historical tour through architectural wonders, don’t put your sunglasses away just yet! There’s so much waiting to be discovered in Malta’s cities. Think baroque buildings dating back thousands of years, breathtaking Grand Harbour vistas and narrow winding streets hiding quirky antique stores.

Malta’s compact size means you can squeeze in two or even three cities in one trip. From afternoons exploring Mdina’s medieval beauty to evenings dining in Valletta’s Michelin-starred restaurants. And when you need a break from city-hopping, you can always check out Gozo’s world-renowned diving sites. What more could you want?

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See the sights in Valletta

Explore Malta's 7000-year history through its 320 monuments

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.

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Things to do on your late escape in Malta

Explore Gozo and Comino

Island paradise for couples and foodies

Nicknamed ‘Malta’s pretty little sister’, Gozo's green and rural landscape is adorned with stunning cliff formations and picturesque olive groves. The best part? Even in winter, the average daytime high is 17°C, making it the perfect year-round destination. Enjoy the fresh sea air on a romantic walk along the picturesque coastline, and perhaps discover a hidden cove to share a memorable moment. Afterwards, stop off at a vineyard to sample the local vino.

Don't miss the chance to try a mouthwatering Maltese Ftira - a traditional semi-flat bread served with delicious toppings and baked to perfection in traditional ovens. Taste the local goat and sheep cheeses, which showcase the island's rich farming heritage. And let's not forget the salt from the island's salt pans, adding a special touch to the regional dishes. 

When it comes to choosing places to stay Gozo has the perfect place for you, whether you’re booking a weekend away or a honeymoon. Maybe opt for the 5-star spa resort of Hotel Ta'Cenc, where you can dine al fresco under a 400-year-old carob tree? Just a short ferry ride away is Comino’s spectacular Blue Lagoon, where the sunsets are just breathtaking.

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Dine al fresco all year round

Fill up on seafood, Pastizzi or some Michelin-starred cuisine

If you want to discover Malta’s culinary side, start with Pastizzi. This savoury pastry comes filled with either ricotta cheese or mushy peas, and is best eaten in one of the cosy pavement cafes around Saint John’s Square. Wash it all down with a chilled bottle of Cisk, a local lager that was crowned the world’s best in 2007. 

If your tastes run more on the high-end side, you’re in luck! Malta is home to 31 Michelin mentions, as well as 6 Michelin stars! If you’re headed to Valletta, Noni, ION and Under Grain all hold Michelin stars. De Mondion and Bahia, both located around 40 minutes away from the capital in Mdina and Lija are also well worth travelling for. 

Seafood fans will be happy at one of the harbourside spots, feasting on freshly-caught swordfish, lobster, and lampuki. And if you’re not a fan of fish, you can’t leave Malta without trying stuffat-tal-Fenek, or rabbit stew, Malta’s national dish.

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Hand-picked Hotels

Whether you’re whisking the family away for a bit of culture, craving some late-night fun with a group of friends or looking for an island retreat with your other half, we’ve got hotels to suit every style and occasion.