From Valletta to Mellieħa: top 6 best vacation spots in Malta

Despite being one of the smallest countries in Europe, Malta punches above its weight when it comes to tourism.

This small archipelago, consisting of three inhabited islands, receives millions of tourists every year. At the same time, every traveler will find something for themselves, writes the Independent.

Best for couples, culture, and sightseeing: Valletta

For first-time visitors, couples in love, and those who want to truly immerse themselves in Maltese history and culture, the capital should be the first stop. It is the most characteristic city in the country, embodied in its market squares and bustling waterfront. Valletta is also home to a dizzying array of monuments - about 320 of them.

The whole city is a UNESCO-listed site: parts of Valletta such as the Grandmaster's Palace and St. John's Cathedral, which date back to the 1500s, its streets, which contain a lot of beautiful Baroque, Renaissance and Neoclassical architecture, as well as large squares such as Freedom Square and magnificent green spaces such as the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens.

Best for families: St. Paul's Bay

St. Paul's Bay is a municipality in the north that includes the popular seaside resorts of Bugiba and Kawra, which are located only a couple hundred meters from each other. These towns are relatively new, lacking the medieval buildings of the cities, and instead offer many resorts and hotels that are popular with families.

The two towns are connected by a promenade, with Kawra being quieter and Bugibba offering more evening entertainment. Kawra Point and the areas around Xemxia Bay offer safe swimming spots.

Best for exploring the island: Mdina

Mdina is one of the best places to base yourself if you want to see as much of Malta as possible during your trip, with Valletta, Sliema, St. Julians and Mellieħa all less than 30 minutes away.

A small fortress city located near the center of the island, Mdina was once the Maltese capital and reminders of its once high status still remain, including its own St. Paul's Cathedral and the impressive city gates. Other locations, such as Mesquite Square, are so picturesque and appropriately medieval that they were used as filming locations for King's Landing in Game of Thrones.

Best for a relaxing escape to nature: Gozo

Gozo is the other main island of the Maltese archipelago, and is located directly northwest of the main island. It is less visited than its larger neighbor, which makes it a more tranquil place, and its nature is even more rugged, green and untouched than in Malta.

For nature lovers, the highlights include the waters of the Blue Hole, the high cliffs around Dwejra Bay, the Inland Sea saltwater lagoon and the sandy beach in Ramla Bay. There are also famous historical sites, including the Neolithic temple of Jgantija and the well-preserved 15th-century citadel.

Best for nightlife: St. Julians

St. Julians is undoubtedly Malta's party capital. A lively, upbeat seaside resort in the north, it is home to the country's most undiscovered nightlife district, Pacheville, which is known for its many casinos, bars and clubs.

Best for a relaxing vacation: Mellieħa

Mellieħa is probably the quietest, most peaceful tourist destination in Malta, with a pleasant rural atmosphere and a distinct lack of noise and nightlife.

Perched on top of the cliffs overlooking the Gulf of Gadira, surrounded by golden hills and azure waters,  is a great place for families with small children or those who just want to relax. The bay offers one of the largest, most picturesque beaches in all of Malta, and the city's attractions, including the 17th-century Red Tower, Coral Lagoon, and Il Majistral Natural History Park, are perfect for spending a day wandering around.