Europe’s ‘best city break’ is not only fit for royalty but also incredibly affordable. Valletta, Malta’s capital, clinched the top spot on The Times Travel’s list of Europe’s best city breaks a few years back, outshining Athens, Budapest, Tbilisi, Split, Madrid, Paris and more.
Valletta is a petite capital brimming with history and offering breathtaking views over turquoise waters. The late Queen Elizabeth II resided just outside the city in the early years of her marriage to Prince Philip, before she ascended to the throne during his naval career.
Constructed in 1566 on a peninsula nestled between two natural harbours, Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This compact city is packed with stunning cathedrals, verdant gardens, and vibrant streets.
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Its small size makes it an ideal weekend escape, with attractions like the city’s fort, St John’s Co-Cathedral, museums, and more all within walking distance. Take a leisurely stroll and admire the Baroque architecture, fortified city walls overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, and perhaps even visit the Lascaris War Rooms which provide a peek into Britain’s defence of Malta during WW2.
Beyond the city, there’s plenty more to discover. The Mediterranean Sea houses reefs, caves, and wrecks that can be explored by diving or snorkelling.
The underwater visibility is renowned for being exceptional.
Game of Thrones enthusiasts might recognise the nearby islands as iconic filming locations from the show’s first season, featuring scenes from King’s Landing and the Dothraki Sea. A quick boat trip can whisk you away to explore more of the archipelago.
Malta is a sun worshipper’s paradise with up to 12 hours of sunshine in the summer months, while spring and autumn offer milder weather but still enjoy warm breezes from Africa.
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What’s more, this sun-soaked, history-rich destination won’t break the bank. Travel blogger Helena Bradbury shared her budget-friendly experience: “For three full days, all accommodation and flights included, plus car hire and spending, the total came to around £300. I flew Ryanair from Stansted and stayed at Soreda Hotel in St. Paul’s Bay and with our own car were able to see most of the island and head over to Gozo for a day too.”
Direct flights to Valletta from London airports like Heathrow or Gatwick will have you soaking up the Mediterranean vibes in just over three hours.
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