≡-Malta: The Hidden Gem with 300 Days of Sunshine and Rich History Just a Flight Away from the UK – Viral of Today

<> Viral of Today <>
Home » TOURISM NEWS » Malta: The Hidden Gem with 300 Days of Sunshine and Rich History Just a Flight Away from the UK Wednesday, July 9, 2025Only a short flight from the UK, Malta is becoming increasingly popular for Brits in 2025, with internet searches for the island chain climbing by 120%. Small as it is, this tiny island in Europe packs a remarkably diverse range of experiences, including sun-kissed beaches, deep history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. From touring vibrant capital city Valletta to strolling down Mdina’s historic streets, or cruising around sparkling Mediterranean Sea, there are reasons aplenty why Malta’s allure cannot be avoided.With 300 days of sunshine a year, Malta presents a year-round opportunity for visitors to explore its UNESCO World Heritage sites, picturesque towns, and breathtaking coastlines. Plus, Malta is now even easier to reach, with new direct flights connecting the island to the UK, including the convenient easyJet route from Southend Airport. After spending five days on this sun-drenched island, it’s clear why it’s becoming a must-visit destination for British tourists.Exploring Malta’s Rich History and Natural BeautyOur adventure began in style with a visit to Odyssey Malta, located inside the Mercury Tower. This 35-minute immersive experience provides an exciting introduction to the island’s rich history. The highlight was the 5D flying theatre ride, a thrilling way to experience Malta’s past and present from above. Standing at 397 feet tall, the Mercury Tower offered breathtaking views over the island, showcasing its dramatic skyline and the glistening Mediterranean.After the immersive experience, it was time to venture out and explore Malta’s iconic landmarks. Our first stop was the historic fortified city of Vittoriosa, also known as Birgu, as part of a “Rolling Geeks” tour. These self-drive electric cars, similar to golf buggies, whisked us through narrow streets lined with beautiful churches and piazzas. The tour also included stops in the neighboring cities of Senglea (Isla) and Cospicua (Bormla). Gardjola Gardens, offering sweeping views of Valletta and the Grand Harbour, was one of the most memorable stops on our tour.Valletta: A City Steeped in HistoryTo truly experience Malta’s heritage, a couple of days in Valletta, the island’s capital, is a must. This UNESCO World Heritage city is rich in history and culture, with stunning architecture and iconic landmarks around every corner. We heard Valletta’s famous saluting battery before seeing it, with daily gun salutes echoing from the city’s ramparts. It’s one of the oldest operational saluting batteries in the world and offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s military past.Inside St John’s Co-Cathedral, we discovered masterpieces by Caravaggio, including the haunting “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist.” The cathedral’s gilded arches and stunning frescoes were awe-inspiring. After immersing ourselves in the art and history of Valletta, we descended into the underground tunnels of the city, where families once sheltered from bombers during World War II. The eerie yet fascinating underground Valletta tour ($13 for adults) gave us a rare glimpse into the island’s wartime past.Mdina: The Silent City and Game of Thrones IconA visit to Mdina, Malta’s ancient capital, was like stepping into another world. Known as the “Silent City,” Mdina is a medieval gem surrounded by fortified walls. Its narrow, winding streets are perfect for an afternoon stroll, and the baroque and medieval architecture makes you feel like you’ve stepped onto a movie set. In fact, Mdina served as the backdrop for King’s Landing in the first season of Game of Thrones. At night, the city comes alive with soft illumination, creating a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for an evening wander.A Day Trip to Gozo: Malta’s Tranquil NeighborNo trip to Malta would be complete without a day trip to Gozo, the island’s second-largest territory. Just a 25-minute ferry ride from the main island, Gozo feels worlds apart. The pace is slower, and the scenery is even more dramatic. We spent the day exploring Gozo’s capital, Ir-Rabat, and its Citadel – an ancient fortified city that offers panoramic views of the island. At Il-Wile Restaurant, we learned how to prepare traditional Gozitan cheese, a delicious and memorable part of our journey.Indulging in Malta’s Culinary DelightsMalta’s food scene is just as rich as its history, offering a perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors. Fresh seafood is a staple, and local specialties like pastizzi (flaky pastry filled with ricotta) and rabbit stew are must-try dishes. We indulged in mouthwatering meals at some of Malta’s finest dining establishments. The Michelin-recognized restaurant 59 Republic in Valletta impressed us with its chic atmosphere and stunning views of the Grand Master’s Palace. The strawberry cheesecake here was the best we’ve ever tasted.For a more relaxed meal, we enjoyed dinner at the charming Trattoria AD 1530 in Mdina, where we sat outside and savored traditional Italian fare. For couples seeking romance, Madliena Lodge offers an intimate dining experience with panoramic views of the island, while Kempinski Hotel’s L-Istorja in Gozo serves up exquisite cuisine in a beautiful setting.The Ultimate Malta ExperienceMalta is a place that genuinely has something for everyone. If you’re an adventurous person visiting its historic cities and fortresses, a gourmet savoring Mediterranean foods, or just someone wanting to bask in sunshine on a lovely beach, Malta has it all. Its glorious history, natural splendor, and hospitality guarantee that each and every moment spent on the island will never be forgotten.For British people seeking a short break that packs history, sunshine, and relaxation, there’s one place that hits all the right spots: Malta. With 300 sunshine days and just so much to see and do, it’s little surprise that this tiny island has turned into one of Britain’s favourite travel spots.

This information will surprise you!

See also

• Read until the end to discover everything.
• Important information you need to know.
• Interesting facts and helpful tips.

Conclusion

Did you enjoy the news? Keep following us daily!