Just a three-hour flight from the UK, Malta is the perfect destination for a short break or longer holiday in the Mediterranean sun. It's a destination that, despite its small size, seemingly has it all, perfect for anyone with a penchant for history, culture, stand-and-stare architecture, gin-clear water and meals that revolve around the fishermen’s catch. And if you want that wrapped in a fabulous climate then you’ll find that too - April to October sees little else but sunshine, usually tempered by a cooling sea breeze.

Made up of seven small islands, there's plenty to keep you occupied, with the main island and its capital Valetta steeped in the past but also bustling with contemporary life.

Valetta & Mdina

The Knights of St John built the historic, fortified capital city of Valletta in the sixteenth century. Commanding an impregnable position over the peninsula, it's home to the Grand Master's Palace and the ornate Cathedral of St John. The former capital, Mdina, nicknamed the Noble City, has an air of elegance and is one of the finest surviving examples of a medieval walled city.

Mdina, Malta

Gozo

Gozo, Malta's smaller sister, is a charming island offering fine coastal walks and good swimming in secluded bays. There are also brilliant diving opportunities; indeed, the country is regarded as one of Europe's finest for diving. Gran Castel, the citadel of Gozo is a miniature version of Mdina, complete with cathedral, museums and folklore. Inland are the Ggantija Temples, which predate the Pyramids and Stonehenge and are considered the oldest freestanding stone structures in the world.

The island of Gozo

The Blue Lagoon

Just off the tiny island of Comino lies the Blue Lagoon. Plunge into the improbably coloured water or put on a snorkel and explore one of the Mediterranean's finest swimming spots.

The Blue Lagoon, Camino, Malta