Malta is more than just a (very) pretty face. This sun-drenched, culture-rich island in the heart of the Mediterranean between Italy and North Africa is one of the most inclusive countries on Earth, having recently topped the ILGA-Europe Rainbow index for the ninth year running.
This inclusivity comes most vibrantly to life each September when the streets of the UNESCO-listed capital Valletta are the setting for the exuberant revelry of Malta Pride – a week-long affair culminating in a weekend embracing the Pride March, a concert, an After-Pride party, and even a Pride Regatta, when charming local wooden taxi boats are dressed up with unicorns, balloons, and tinsel to do a tour of the spectacular harbour.
Malta Pride began in 2004 with just 100 or so participants – a number that grew to thousands in 2023, when the island played host, for the first time, to EuroPride – a pan-European event hosted each year by a different European city - the event was headlined by the amazing Christina Aguilera.
Malta is just a three-hour flight from the UK but really is another world, with a huge amount to see and do. There are several historic cities to explore, from the current capital Valletta to the ancient capital and ‘Silent City’ of Mdina (especially lovely at night, when it’s lit by lanterns). Also unmissable is the UNESCO-listed ancient Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni, a mysterious underground burial chamber, and, on neighbouring Gozo, the enigmatic, UNESCO-listed Ggantija Temples – one of the world’s oldest free-standing structures, pre-dating Egypt’s Pyramids.
Private boat tours of the coast of Malta and those of sister islands Gozo and Comino reveal hidden caves and delightful snorkelling spots, as well as offering you the chance to watch the sun set from the deck. The islands also have an array of gorgeous beaches. Malta’s largest sandy beach, Mellieha Bay, is in a peaceful spot in the north of the island, but even more tranquil are remote Għajn Tuffieħa Bay with its reddish-golden sand and St Peter’s natural rock pool in Delimara – superb for secluded swimming and sunbathing.
On Gozo, Ramla il-Ħamra (‘Red Sandy Beach’) has great swimming and snorkelling, plus protected dunes believed to conceal Roman ruins. From Dwejra Bay, you can take boat trips to the Blue Hole and Fungus Rock, while at the bottom of the cliffs at Daħlet Qorrot, a small bay in the north, you can see unique boathouses converted from natural caves and ledges.
To book your Malta holiday, call your Travel Counsellor today.
Vancouver is more than just a starting or ending point for your cruise; it’s a destination in its own right. Housed between the Pacific Ocean and stunning mountain ranges, this cosmopolitan city offers an array of experiences that are perfect for pre-or post-cruise stays. Whether you’ve got a day to spare or a few extra nights, make the most of your time by exploring Vancouver’s unique blend of urban energy and natural wonders.
Malta, a jewel of the Mediterranean, is a small island with a big sound. Known for its stunning beaches, historic charm, and glorious sunshine, Malta transforms during summer into a hub of musical energy, drawing festival-goers from all over the world. With international headliners, a buzzing atmosphere, and the promise of amazing memories, Malta’s music festivals are not to be missed. Whether you're a fan of dance anthems under the stars or chilled beats by the sea, Malta has something for every taste. Read on for our guide to the best summer festivals on the island.
Fancy waking up to the Mediterranean sun streaming through your window, stepping out onto a private terrace with a hot coffee in hand, and looking out over lush pine-covered hills or sparkling turquoise seas? This isn’t just any holiday moment; it’s a glimpse of your next family getaway with SPL Villas in Ibiza. For 2026, SPL Villas is bringing their trusted expertise and dedication to family holidays to this beloved Balearic hotspot.
