'Everyone should go at least once' Why Malta needs to be on your 2026 bucket list
Malta is such a unique destination that I'd argue everyone should go at least once.
History is layered upon itself in this medieval capital of knightly ventures.
From a single point you will see Roman ruins packed tightly next to gorgeous cathedrals and World War II bases.
In November, I got to see this in person while staying at the Barceló Fortina Malta - and there’s probably no better vantage point for what the country has to offer.
Located in the newly-developed Silema district, the five-star hotel has a gorgeous view of the capital city of Valetta with access to everything you could really want.
The country’s largest shopping centre is just a stone’s throw away from the hotel, with trips into the capital taking no more than 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, the hotel itself is fitted with a luxury spa, two swimming pools, and the top-class waterside restaurant Tora where I enjoyed a delightful Asian fusion three-course meal.
The restaurant is connected to a heated, outdoor pool, where you can reserve seats and order cocktails.
The spa facilities include a wellness centre to relax and fully-equipped gym, with a number of massages available.
Meanwhile, those looking for a bite to eat or something to drink can enjoy magnificent sea-front views at The Bridge Bar.
The food in general was incredible, with a personal standout being a rabbit spinach pastry I had at a small, hidden cafe in Valletta. Rabbit is one of their national cuisines, though my absolute favourite dish was something a bit less exciting.
At The Medina Restaurant in the ancient walled city of Mdina I had one of the best-cooked pork joints of my life, backed by art and architecture older than entire countries.
1. British travellers shouldn’t worry about language; while Maltese is still spoken, many learn English and it is considered one of the island’s official languages.
2. There are 3,000 hours of sunshine every year in Malta, double that of northern European cities. For example, London only has 1,461.
3. Malta has plenty of ties to the UK, and until recently was under British rule. There’s even red telephone boxes and a statue of Winston Churchill in Valetta.
4. England’s St John’s Ambulances were inspired by the Catholic Order of St John, who spent most of their history headquartered in Malta with their old bases now open to the public.
5. The country hosts three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the entire capital city.
On a trip to Valletta, I also got to visit the must-see Collegiate Parish Church of St. Paul's Shipwreck which featured absolutely stunning and recently restored architecture in a building dripping with history.
Despite being just a small island nation, Malta was one of the most shelled sites during the Second World War, standing as a small stronghold of Allied influence in the Mediterranean surrounded by Axis powers to the north in Italy and south in Africa.
Walls and buildings are still scarred by shrapnel, protecting history and culture that miraculously survived.
The country had previously been the landing point for European knights heading into the crusades, and there's a determination seeped into the culture you can still feel today. It’s exciting and varied, with offerings for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a nice cultured visit of historical sites and museums, or want a more laid-back holiday, there’s arguably no better place to go.