As the UK endures its characteristic winter deluge of rain, wind, and chill, a significant number of Britons are turning their gaze towards warmer European shores. One standout destination, just a three-hour flight away, offers a compelling mix of mild climate, rich history, and remarkable value.
The Mediterranean Jewel Beckons
Malta, frequently celebrated as the 'jewel of the Mediterranean', presents an enticing escape. The compact island measures a mere 17 miles in length, allowing visitors to traverse it in under an hour. Accessibility is a key draw, with budget carrier Ryanair offering remarkably affordable flights, starting from just £14.99 one-way.
Accommodation remains reasonable and plentiful. For instance, a week's stay for two adults in March can be secured on platforms like Booking.com for approximately £180. The climatic contrast is stark: while the UK struggles to reach highs of 11°C in March, Malta enjoys temperatures ranging from a pleasant 12°C to 17°C. By April, the island warms further to between 15°C and 20°C, basking in an impressive 3,000 hours of annual sunshine.
Valletta: A Crowned UNESCO Gem
The heart of Malta's appeal lies in its historic capital, Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city recently achieved top honours, being named the very best city in The 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards by Condé Nast Traveller, receiving a near-perfect score of 97.33.
Encircled by formidable stone fortifications, Valletta is renowned for its ornate Baroque architecture. Condé Nast paints a picture of 'narrow undulating lanes' brimming with activity. The city is also notably affordable for visitors; a beer within its ancient fortress walls costs around €4.29 (roughly £3.73) according to Numbeo.
The World's Most Beautiful Port
Valletta's status isn't just historical—it's visually stunning. In a unique study conducted by AllClear Travel Insurance, researchers used eye-tracking technology on 100 cruise passengers to determine which global ports captivated viewers the fastest and for the longest duration. The result crowned Valletta's harbour as the world's most beautiful port.
This busy port is where countless tourists disembark to wander its picturesque, winding streets. Beyond the capital, Malta is packed with historical treasures, from Neolithic temples to a dramatic coastline. The island's overall popularity is confirmed, having ranked third in Travel Supermarket's list of popular island destinations for 2026.
For Brits seeking respite from the winter damp, Malta emerges as a compelling, sun-drenched alternative that combines cultural depth with undeniable value and easy access.
