Malta holidays

One of Europe’s smallest capitals, this UNESCO World Heritage Site packs a huge punch with cultural attractions and one of the most interesting food scenes in the Mediterranean.

Transforming from its fishing roots into a dazzling coastal destination, Sliema combines rich history with glitzy high-rises, Mediterranean cuisine and plenty of after-dark fun.

Bring your dancing shoes to St Julian’s. Malta’s nightlife hub also offers scenic waterfront promenades, secluded swimming spots and centuries-old architecture.

Among the many amazing things to see in Malta are its prehistoric temples. Head to the clifftop where the country’s earliest inhabitants worshipped 5,000 years ago — Ħaġar Qim’s megalithic complex includes stones that stand over five metres tall. Or descend to the underground Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, a vast necropolis where an estimated 7,000 people were buried — just remember to book well in advance.

The Knights of St John occupied Malta for over 200 years, leaving an extraordinary legacy of churches, palaces and fortresses. These include the splendidly Baroque St John’s Co-Cathedral and the Grand Master’s Palace, with its 5,000 suits of armour. Don’t miss the Three Cities the Knights fortified — Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua — across from the Grand Harbour.

Malta’s tiny sister island is only 45 minutes away by ferry. It’s also a delightfully quiet retreat from the crowds, with unspoilt nature spots like the rugged beach of Dwejra Bay. It even has its own ancient attractions, like the Ġgantija Temples, which are older than the pyramids, and a Roman acropolis turned citadel. And at about 14 kilometres long, you can get around it easily by bike.

Carved out of the island’s rock, the beaches in Malta are unforgettable. The clear-blue waters are great for swimming — try the sheltered St Peter’s Pool — and perfect for snorkelling or diving among the reefs and wrecks. You’ll find a couple of big, sandy sweeps, like Golden Bay and Riviera Beach on the northwest coast, and plenty of water sports, such as windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Malta’s coastline beckons hikers with its lush countryside on one side and the deep blue Mediterranean on the other. Head west to the Dingli Cliffs, over 250 metres above sea level, or go horseback riding along the golden shores. Boat tours wind through the Blue Grotto’s famous sea caves. The northern nature reserves, like Majjistral Nature and History Park, showcase a rich variety of bird and plant life.

The flavours of Italy and mainland Europe meet the Middle East here. You’ll find meze-style dishes sitting alongside rustic rabbit stews and flavoursome fish soups. Head to Marsaxlokk for some of the best seafood restaurants in Malta, including the island’s famous octopus and calamari. Or snack on traditional ‘pastizzi’ (crispy pastries filled with ricotta or curried peas) and tangy Ġbejna cheese.

Valletta is the island’s cultural hub, with historic palazzos, art galleries, a magnificent open-air theatre and live music in many of its bars. Other museums in Malta explore the country’s ancient history. The National Museum of Archaeology showcases amulets, tools and figurines that date back 5,000 years, while the Għar Dalam cave holds fossils that are half a million years old.

If you plan to hike, spring is the best time to visit Malta, as the weather is mild and the landscape is covered in wildflowers. Summer marks festa season, a great time to connect with the island’s culture. But temperatures can be more pleasant in autumn, and the sea stays warm into October. There are classical music festivals in winter, when prices dip.

Looking for a cheap holiday in Malta? You can find an inexpensive meal for 15 euros (€) and a beer for less than €4. Many of Malta’s biggest draws — its colourful streets, ancient churches and scenic beaches — are free. Travel outside of peak season, and swap out a €10 taxi fare for a cheap bus ticket.