Malta is the product of a unique geographical location which has gifted it both incredible strategic importance and an inviting Mediterranean climate.  These two factors contribute hugely to its popularity with visitors from across the world, all seeking a distinctive cultural experience set amongst the stunningly beautiful landscape of the coastline and the quiet, peaceful villages of the south of the island.  With so much to see and do, it is important to make sure you make the most of your trip and visit some of the most spectacular sights in Europe.  
 
History in Valetta  
 
The capital city of Malta retains much of its 16^th Century architecture thanks to its inscription on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites.  Many of the city’s impressive structures were built under the rule of the Knights Hospitaller, a Middle Age Christian military order, and Valetta is now home to impressive feats of Baroque and Neo-Classical ingenuity.  One of the city’s most fascinating sights is the St John’s Co-Cathedral, a unique monument of international importance.  Built by the Knights Hospitaller between 1573 and 1578, this Baroque masterpiece is considered to be one of the world’s greatest cathedrals.  Whilst the exterior is quite severe and reminiscent of a military fort, the design of the cathedral’s interior is incredibly ornate.  The high, barrel shaped ceiling consists of an enormous continuous fresco, whilst the inlaid marble floor is made up of a collection of tombstones.  To experience the island’s more recent history, a trip to the Lascaris War Rooms will provide an insight into tragic and yet inspiring tale of Malta’s vital role in the Second World War.  The island was blockaded and heavily bombed by the German and Italian forces as they sought to protect shipping routes in the Mediterranean.  Owing to the bravery of the Maltese people, the island was awarded the George Cross in 1942 and remains the only country to have collectively received the award.  The museum consists of a number of underground rooms and tunnels from which the defence of Malta was planned, and the guides make this a fascinating experience and truly bring the atmosphere of the war years back to life. 
 
 Life’s a Beach
 
As expected for an island nation in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta is home to some of Europe’s finest and most family-friendly beaches.  Paradise Bay is a small but secluded picturesque strip of sand set in its own peaceful bay.  Not only is this a perfect spot for an afternoon’s sunbathing; it also offers fantastic snorkelling opportunities in the clear blue waters.  Golden Bay truly lives up to its name, with gently rolling hills merging into the sun-kissed sands of this small inlet, whilst the rugged cliffs that define the edges of the bay make for great photo opportunities.  Similar to Golden Bay, but exceptionally exclusive and unspoiled, the Ghajn Tuffieha is a haven of peace.  Wonderfully overlooked by mass tourism, the deep turquoise waters and beautiful sand dunes welcome those who make the trip down the steep flight of stairs that leads to the secluded bay.                 
 
Hiking
 
To get to the true rural heart of Malta, hiking allows visitors to venture off the beaten track and explore some of the natural beauty that can be found all around the island.  A walk along the north western coastline takes hikers across clay slopes and soft sandy beaches, providing opportunities to photograph the tall stone towers built by the Knights of Malta.  Views of the northern island of Gozo abound and the isolated coves that dot the coastline provide the perfect chance for a refreshing swim in the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean.  For those interested in the history of the island, a trek around the area surrounding the tiny village of Bidnija will bring you face to face with the military fortifications built by the British in the late 19^th Century.  Exploring the village itself is also a worthwhile experience as the hamlet has lost none of its ancient charm; as the second smallest on the island, this secluded and rural village exudes charisma.  For a beach experience far away from the crowded tourist hotspots, head to Bahar ic-Caghaq and hike along to St Paul’s Island; the birthplace of Christianity in Malta, it is believed that it was here where St Paul was shipwrecked on his voyage to Rome. The walk provides fantastic views of the rugged shoreline and crashing waves, whilst there are plenty of isolated beaches that are prefect for a picnic. 
 
Celebrate in Style
 
Not only does Malta’s deep Catholic past provide it with a fascinating history and some impressive feats of architecture, it also gives each village an excuse to celebrate throughout the year in honour of their patron saints.  Banners, papier maché statues and decorated balconies and rooftops inject a splash of colour and vibrancy into each village and the parties generally last at least three days, during which time the streets are packed with hundreds of locals in a relaxed and festive mood.  Visitors can sample Maltese nougat and other sweet delicacies from the traditional food stands before finishing the night off by watching the colourful explosions of the grand finale, a huge fireworks display.  This relaxed and sociable atmosphere is recreated at the many cultural festivals that the island hosts, including the Malta Arts Festival, the Malta Jazz Festival and Notte Bianca, an annual spectacular nocturnal event during which the streets and cultural venues of Valetta host art exhibitions, theatre performances and open-air musical and dance shows. 
 
Medieval Mdina
 
After a long night celebrating in the streets of one of Malta’s many picturesque villages, the prefect way to unwind and enjoy a slower pace is at the island’s old medieval capital, Mdina.  Perched on a plateau in the heart of the island, Mdina is one of Europe’s finest examples of an ancient walled city and guided tours with enthusiastic and knowledgeable experts bring the area to life.  Pacing through the quaint narrow streets is like walking back in time: footsteps echo on the stone paving; squares pop up without warning and wonderfully preserved churches hold a unique charm.  Over the centuries, the island’s different rulers have sought to leave their mark on the city, making it an incredible outdoor museum offering a fascinating insight into Malta’s rich past.  The city regains its true character as the sun begins to go down; as the tourists filter out through the gates, an eerie silence descends. The stunning and unobstructed views from the city’s bastions are unrivalled anywhere else on the island, making it one of the country’s most charming and romantic locations.        

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