Malta

From megalithic temples older than the pyramids of Egypt, on Malta every stone tells a story. Here you will discover a cultural and architectural heritage shaped by over 7000 years of civilisation, from prehistoric man to the Phoenicians, Saint Paul's shipwreck to the Arab conquest, the Knights of the Order of Saint John, Napoleon Bonaparte and the days of the British Empire.

Not only is the city of Valletta a listed UNESCO World Heritage site, it was also named the 2018 European Capital of Culture. With its rich history, you would think the capital of Malta would be content to boast just its exceptional heritage, but it is also now one of Europe's coolest cities.

The Maltese archipelago is much more than just Malta. Two other gems stud this idyllic patch of the Mediterranean and compete with their larger counterpart both in natural beauty and in the range of activities on offer. A Gozo getaway or an excursion to Comino combines Mediterranean culture and lifestyle with historical discovery and is a must on any trip to Malta.

Malta is the dream destination for sports enthusiasts, who will find here an unparalleled natural playground in which to indulge in their passion for the outdoors, both on land and on the water. The crystal clear waters and the many wrecks are sure to please divers of all levels, and water sports enthusiasts can practise sailing, sea kayaking, windsurfing and more. Against this backdrop of blue, the rugged coastline in the north-west of Malta and Gozo also makes the perfect landscape for hiking, mountain biking and horse riding.

Beach-wise, the choice is just as wide: gold sand, red sand, pebbles, blue lagoons and even inland seas. Whatever you do, don't miss the translucent and turquoise waters of the world-famous Blue Lagoon on Comino, the archipelago's third island.

The Maltese Islands have served as a film location for over 150 feature films and numerous other productions. It is no surprise that Malta is often referred to as the, "Mediterranean's Mini Hollywood". In fact, it has attracted major international productions, such as: Game of Thrones (2011), Gladiator (2000), Murder on the Orient Express (2017), Troy (2004), Assassin's Creed (2016), Munich (2005), The Count of Monte Cristo (2002), Midnight Express (1978), 13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi (2016), World War Z (2013), The Da Vinci Code (2006) and many others. For families, Malta also offers children the chance to play the leading role in their own adventures - at the Popeye Village, the Playmobil FunPark, the Malta National Aquarium and the Splash & Fun Water Park.