Whether you’re craving a fun-filled family holiday, an action-packed break with friends or a laid-back getaway as a couple, the magical island of Malta – along with the neighbouring shores of Comino and Gozo – has so much to offer.

Mesmerising scenery, awe-inspiring activities and glorious attractions await, along with an inspiring heritage, unique architecture and mouthwatering gastronomy. But with so much to enjoy, you might struggle to decide where to start.

Well, how about in the exquisite capital, Valletta?

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic city boasts an array of glorious churches, ornate palaces and ancient monuments. Must-see attractions include St John’s Co-Cathedral, The domed Carmelite Church and the Grandmaster’s Palace.

Valletta’s Grand Harbour is also well worth a visit, along with the Upper Barrakka Gardens and the National Museum of Archaeology.

Fascinating historical attractions can be found away from the capital as well, with the Medieval city of Mdina, the Tarxien Temples and Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples all offering an insight into Malta’s past.

Those seeking active pursuits are also in for a treat, with the Maltese islands providing a myriad of options for leisure, adventure and exploration.

The glistening Mediterranean Sea is perfect for a spectrum of water sports, including kayaking, water-skiing, jet skiing, snorkelling and scuba diving to name but a few.

Exciting land activities are also in abundance, with hiking and cycling being great ways to experience Malta’s diverse landscape, while Segways, ziplining, golfing, jeep safaris and horse-riding are other options that can be enjoyed.

After an exhilarating day, why not follow it up by sampling the island’s energetic nightlife?

Paceville, in St Julian’s, is home to a variety of nightclubs, bars and live music venues, while Valetta, Bugibba, Qawra and Sliema all offer a great choice of restaurants, pubs and discos. Alternatively, you could try your luck at one of Malta’s fabulous casinos, with several to choose from on the island.

If serenity and stunning scenery are more your cup of tea, you’ll definitely want to take a boat trip to enjoy the intense blue waters of the Blue Grotto, located just south of Qrendi

The islands of Gozo and Comino are also well worth a visit, with pretty villages, historic temples and enchanting beaches among the delights waiting to be discovered.

In addition to all the magical sights, activities and attractions, Malta is a paradise for foodies.

Michelin-starred restaurants, hearty local cuisine and spectacular fresh seafood are all on the menu, while any wine connoisseurs can sample the local produce at one of the many wineries or vineyards that can be found across the island.

Malta is a superb choice for a luxury beach holiday, with the island blessed with almost 200km of glorious coastline and 11 Blue Flag stretches of sand.

What’s more, you’ll also get to enjoy some of the cleanest waters in the EU when you visit the golden expanses, picturesque bays and captivating coves that line the shore.

Mellieha Bay is where you’ll find Malta’s largest beach. Ideal for families, this delightful spot boasts safe and shallow swimming waters, as well as water sports

options such as kayaking, windsurfing, banana boat rides and parasailing.

St George’s Bay, in St Julian’s, is a wonderful choice for sunbathing and fun activities, while the rolling red sands and heavenly sunsets on offer at Golden Bay in the north of the island are sure to impress.

For breath-taking beauty, seek out the stunning Blue Lagoon on Comino or the spellbinding surroundings of Ramla Bay on the neighbouring island of Gozo.

A holiday in Malta is sure to be unforgettable for the destination’s sensational culinary scene alone.

Influenced by ingredients, cooking techniques and cultural elements from France, Italy, Britain, Spain and North Africa, the food on the menu is completely unmissable.

You’ll enjoy recipes refined over centuries, dishes that have stood the test of time and creations enhanced by fresh produce from across the Maltese archipelago and surrounding sea.

Discover local delicacies in quaint bistros, savour Michelin-starred indulgence and innovation or tuck into authentic sweet treats while out and about exploring. Here’s a taste of some of the dishes, drinks, dining destinations and gastronomic experiences that await.

Must-try dishes

Stuffat tal-Fenek - Malta’s national dish, this hearty rabbit stew features ingredients including wine, garlic, vegetables, tomatoes and herbs.

Pastrizzi - Whether you’re craving a savoury bite or a sweet treat, this traditional Maltese pastry snack is sure to hit the spot. Choose from fillings including ricotta, mashed peas or Nutella.

Ftira biz-zejt - Fuel up on the go with this traditional Maltese ring-shaped flatbread sandwich, filled with ingredients such as tuna, tomato paste, tomatoes, capers, olives, red onion and basil.

Timpana - If you’re seeking a filling dish to fill a hole in your stomach, you can’t go wrong with a pasta pie. That’s exactly what you’ve got here, with baked macaroni mixed with a meaty sauce, before being cooked in pastry.

Lampuki - This seasonal fish, which is also known as mahi-mahi or dorado, is often grilled and served with either a Maltese tomato sauce that is made with capers and olives, or with olive oil, garlic, chilli, and parsley. Alternatively, lampuki can be enjoyed in a flaky pastry pie, or lightly fried in breadcrumbs.

Imqaret - For a sweet hit while on the go, seek out this delicious street food treat, consisting of dates, citrus and spices wrapped in pastry.

Kannoli - Finish off your meal in style with this divine dessert that consists of deep-fried pastry wrapped around ricotta cream.

Drinks

Kinnie - Regarded as Malta’s favourite sort drink, this unique bittersweet beverage combines orange and herbal flavours and is well worth seeking out.

Cisk - Malta’s local lager is known for its crisp, well-balanced taste. It has been brewed on the island since 1929.

Bajtra - Made from local prickly pears, this sweet liqueur is often served as an after dinner digestif, over ice cream or mixed with prosecco.

Where to eat

ION Harbour by Simon Rogan - Enjoy world-class Mediterranean cuisine beside Valetta’s picturesque seafront at this exceptional dining destination that holds not one, but two Michelin stars.

Rosami At The Villa - A Michelin-starred fine-dining experience is on the menu at this exquisite restaurant, located in an historic villa, in Balluta Bay, St. Julian’s

Le GV Rooftop Restaurant - Indulge in an immersive Mediterranean gastronomic experience at this elegant one-Michelin-starred venue, located in Sliema.

De Mondion - Innovative Michelin star-winning Mediterranean cuisine awaits at this refined restaurant, located on the rooftop of The Xara Palace, a 17th century palazzo, in the medieval city of Mdina.

Other Malta restaurants with a Michelin star include Fernando Gasrotheque, in Sliema, serving Mediterranean cuisine, Under Grain, in Valletta, where you can enjoy creative modern dishes, and Noni, also in Valletta, showcasing modern Maltese fare.

Gululu - Discover the delights of authentic Maltese cuisine at this divine waterside dining destination, located in Spinola Bay, St. Julian’s.

Grotto Tavern - Set in an atmospheric 2,000-year-old cave, in Rabat, this unique restaurant is a wonderful choice for a romantic dinner date, serving refined Mediterranean dishes.

Experiences

Winery and vineyard tour - Blessed with rich soil and 300 days of sun, Malta enjoys the ideal conditions for producing wine and is home to an array of wineries and vineyards creating refreshing rosés, full-bodied reds and lively whites. Discover tasty tipples from Markus Divinus, Tal-Massar Winery, San Niklaw and more with an unforgettable tour or tasting experience.

Craft brewery tour - Malta’s craft beer scene is absolutely booming with breweries across the island creating innovative lagers, pilsners, IPAs, ales, wheat beers and stouts to wow drinkers. Discover some for yourself during a visit to Lord Chambray Brewery and The Farsons Brewery among others.