"Year-round sunshine, plenty of attractions, and legendary hospitality – Malta's the ideal Mediterranean escape."
Malta – the very name conjures up thoughts of the George Cross and enough historical sights to keep you busy for a month. But there's so much more to this little beauty than a fascinating past. These days you're just as likely to hear about its film locations and nightlife as you are its history and culture. The Hollywood swords 'n' sandals epics Troy, Gladiator and Alexander were all filmed on the island's sunny shores. And world famous DJs are flocking here to spin some discs at the up-and-coming hotspots. But though Malta's image is changing fast, its breathtaking beauty remains one of the key things that draws people back year after year. Wherever you go, the island's eye-popping scenery provides a sigh-inducing backdrop. And as for all that history, with so much of the past still visible today, there's no wonder it's known as an open-air museum. Travel back in time to discover Malta's mysterious prehistory. Retrace the footsteps of St Paul. Or see where the Knights of St John defended Christendom. But Malta is no regular museum. Here life is lived to the full, so be prepared to get stuck into the Mediterranean way of life. Throw yourself into carnivals and make the most of the island's packed calendar of events. If you're looking for a destination that offers more than just a suntan, Malta's a first class choice.
Malta's rich heritage can be seen in its wealth of archaeological, architectural and artistic treasures including Megalithic temples which are over 1000 years older than Stonehenge. Other historical sights include Roman mosaics, Baroque churches and mighty fortifications. Nowadays, the island is often used for filming - Midnight Express, Gladiator and Troy all had scenes shot here - but other famous visitors have included the Apostle Paul, who was shipwrecked in the bay named after him, the Knights of St John and the painter Caravaggio, whose work adorns the altar of St John's cathedral in Valletta.
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Great Malta holidays
Malta holiday resorts
Resorts in Malta include Bugibba, Marfa Bay, Mellieha, Mellieha Bay, Qawra, Salina Bay, San Anton, Sliema, St Georges Bay, St Julian's, St Julian's Bay, St Paul's Bay and Valletta.
More Malta holiday destinations
Looking for holidays in Malta? Our Malta holiday destinations include Gozo and Malta.
Beaches
When it comes to beaches, Malta's got something for everyone. Whether you want to ride the waves on a windsurfer, or simply plonk yourself on the beach and catch some rays, this sun-soaked isle's got it covered. For one of the best sweeps of gently shelving sand, head down to the shores of Mellieha Bay. For uninterrupted sunbathing, head to the calmer southern shores of Birzebbugia. And for take-your-breath-away beauty, take a boat trip to Comino's exquisite Blue Lagoon. If you prefer to keep active, you'll find plenty of watersports on Malta's beaches. The rocky inlets are great for snorkellers and scuba divers looking to explore the colourful coral. And for the adrenaline junkies there are plenty of opportunities for para-gliding and water-skiing. With some of the cleanest shores in the Mediterranean, Malta's beaches are a must see. All you need is plenty of suncream, a stack of best-selling reads and a burning desire to kick back, relax and do as little as possible…
Eating out
- Dining al fresco is one of life's simple pleasures, and it's a daily possibility in Malta. Whether you're taking a light lunch in an elaborate palazzo, or tucking into fresh fish by the trendy harbourside, there's plenty of places to choose from. The island's cuisine is heavily influenced by settlers from across the globe, particularly from Italy. Traditional Maltese cookery has strong touches of the Sicilian and Moorish, so expect plenty of tomato and wine sauces with pasta, rabbit and fish. The Maltese are also partial to pastry, with lampuki pie a firm favourite. It's a popular dish, with fish, spinach, cauliflower and chestnuts packed in shortcrust pastry. No Maltese meal is complete without a robust red or a crisp white as an accompaniment, like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Marsovin Chardonnay. Malta may not be known for wine production like its larger Mediterranean neighbours, but some of the excellent vintages more than hold their own.
- La Dolce Vita Restaurant, St Julians The friendly atmosphere and fabulous seafood make this a firm favourite with the locals. The roof-top terrace overlooking Spinola Bay is the ideal place to enjoy your meal.
- Two and a half Lemon, Vittoriosa Set within a magnificent vault at Vittorisa Marina's Old Treasury Building, this place has been packed since its opening last year, so reservations are a must.
- Rubino, Valletta If it's Maltese cuisine you're after - this is the place to be. Enjoy a mixture of modern and traditional dishes in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
- Zen, St Julians For something a bit different, check out this fabulous Japanese eatery. With such a wide range of sushi and sashimi you won't know where to start.
- Jeffrey's, Gozo This local joint is packed with local, hearty and delicious food. Be sure to book as it fills fast at weekends.
Nightlife
- Over the past few years Malta has become a bit of a hotspot for clubbers. St Julians and Paceville have a strong scene with plenty of superstar DJs manning the Technics. It wouldn't be uncommon to hear the latin-tinged house of Masters at Work alongside Malta's hottest mixer, DJ Ruby. The clubs are open seven days a week and not just in summertime. Regardless of season, you can party until the early hours in a variety of clubs. If you prefer the clink of a cocktail glass to the thump of a beat, there are plenty of bars to relax in. Bursting with energy is the Pioneer Road in Buggiba. During the summer season, drinkers get together on the promenade, turning it into one big party. Of course, clubbing until dawn isn't everyone's cup of tea, so relax and choose something a little less frantic. Sit back and watch other people do the energetic stuff at the beautiful Manoel Theatre in Valetta. This magnificent building plays host to concerts, operas and a traditional pantomime at Christmas.
- Fuego, St Julians and Qawra Welcome to the only Salsa bars on the island. Boasting unique design, outdoor terraces and the hottest Latin grooves, these are the busiest clubs on the island.
- Tattingers, Rabat Malta's first superclub is a haven for the island's hippest house fans. DJ Ruby represents the Maltese mixers, while special guests include electro queen Miss Kittin and Detroit's Jeff Mills.
- Muddy Waters, Balluta Bay Named after the legendary blues guitarist, here you can sip Jack Daniel's and get your rocks off to down and dirty rock and roll classics.
- Portovino Wine Bar, Portomaso If you like the finer things in life, this elegant bar offers a wide range of vintage wines, champagnes and excellent cigars.
Gianpula, Rabat Ever been to an open-air club? Well, now's your chance. Since 1980 this place has gone from strength to strength, hosting nights from the likes of Cream and Ministry of Sound. With a large capacity and 4am closing, this is one of the hottest clubs around.
Shopping
When it comes to shopping in Malta, there's real variety. There are colourful markets. Quaint old shops. And bang-up-to-date shopping plazas. So take your time and try to see a bit of everything. The buzzing markets are the heart of the Maltese week and offer a cultural tour of their own. Every village has one and they offer the perfect opportunity for socialising as well as buying local trinkets. The stalls sell everything from gold and silverware to clothing and household goods. Meanwhile, for colour, nothing beats the Marsaxlokk fish market. Here you'll find plenty of weird and wonderful produce that's as tasty as it is interesting. Depending on the season, you can get a taste for dentex fish, dolphin fish and the Maltese favourite, Lampuki. Markets aside, the quaint shops offer plenty of tempting buys. For a taste of the Mediterranean, pop into one of the local delis and pick up some of the mouthwatering sun-dried tomatoes, olives and fine wines.
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