Visit Malta this summer
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. With over 300 days of sunshine, there’s no bad time to visit, whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach break in Gozo or a sun-soaked city escape in Valletta.
But trips to Malta aren’t just about the climate. You’ve got a history spanning 7,000 years, a cocktail of cultures, exclusive wines and Michelin-starred restaurants all waiting to be discovered. And that’s without mentioning its coastal beauty. From dramatic cliff backdrops to hidden caves and golden sands, there’s plenty of eye fodder to enjoy from your sunlounger too.
Whether it’s your first or fourth time in this culture-filled island, there’s always more to discover in Malta.
Visit MaltaSee the sights in Valletta
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.
Visit MaltaExplore Gozo and Comino
After all that exploring, it’s time to take it down a notch and relax on Gozo’s beautiful beaches. Ramla Bay is a top choice for families with its sloping rosy sands, while Wied il-Għasri is ideal for some under-the-radar sunbathing. There’s plenty of fun to be had in the water too, like paddleboarding, kayaking and jet skiing.
But by far, Gozo’s biggest draw is its dive sites, which have been voted the 2nd best in the world for their high visibility and amazing underwater scenery. Just a short ferry ride away is Comino’s Blue Lagoon, whose clear waters are a snorkeller’s dream. Those who prefer to keep their heads above water can take a boat trip around its Blue Grotto, a cave complex made up of incredible limestone arches. And no self-respecting guide to Malta would fail to mention the Blue Hole in Dwejra.
Visit MaltaDine al fresco all year round
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.
Visit Malta