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.
READ MORE: The 2 villages in the UK that made it onto the list of the world's most beautiful 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 th.