Although it’s a little island with a big personality, you may have already seen more of the island than you thought, even if you’ve never had the pleasure of a holiday in Malta. Film-makers flock to the country to take advantage of the heat, scenery and history. Of course, those reasons alone only scratch the surface of what Malta can offer and you can rest assured of a relaxing and sometimes surprising destination.

Located 80 kilometres south of Italy, Malta’s Mediterranean charm shines through in every morsel of its wholesome cuisine and every grain of sand on its rugged, inviting beaches.

The history of Malta goes back well before the Middle Ages, with St Paul’s Bay named for the legendary biblical figure said to have shipwrecked there.

The island itself has been passed between Phoenician, Greek, Roman, French and British rule. Today, Malta is an independent island with its own identity, which gives it more than enough charisma, explaining why its such a popular destination all year round. It may not be one of the most talked about holiday destinations, but it’ll certainly pleasantly surprise.

Malta is also super affordable, with the low season, corresponding to our winter months back home, making for the perfect winter sun destination. Prices take a tumble while thermometers still consistently hover in the twenties.

Cities with spirit

If you’re all about city trips, holidays to Malta won’t disappoint. Its capital, Valletta, was named for French mediaeval knight Jean Parisot de Valette, yet the city itself boasts a grand mix of influences. Baroque architecture and classic Mediterranean buildings are streets apart from the rustic old English-style pubs and more modern apartment complexes.

As you’d expect, shopping and dining here are also superb. You’ve got to try yourself some Maltese bread before the holiday is over!

For many though, it’s Sliema that ticks all the boxes. It’s a city that’s transformed in the modern era into a cosmopolitan playground for travellers from every corner of the world. The fact that it’s located right beside the gorgeous Mediterranean Sea certainly does plenty of favours for the town too, with a scenic marina and ample opportunities for a coastal stroll.

Shoppers flock to Sliema and the district known as The Ferries, where fashion boutiques line the streets by the score. Your holiday to Malta may turn into a multi stop city tour! Even if you’re not interested in splashing the cash for new bits, window shopping along these impressive streets can be fun.

Enjoy life by the sea

Malta is an island that’s often voted one of the happiest and healthiest places in all of Europe, and its relationship with the sea has plenty to do with that. In fact, Malta’s beaches are actually thought to be some of the finest in the Med.

While you’re going to have the chance to enjoy plenty of hidden coves and sandy beaches, the majority of Malta’s most popular shorelines actually fall on the more rugged end of the spectrum. Rocky flats are where deckchairs congregate and sunbathers gather to immerse themselves in the hot sunny rays.

Mellieha Bay and its other northern Malta counterparts buck that trend though with sandy beaches, and actually, in other parts of the island sand has been imported to provide traditional sunbathing spots. Naturally, beach days are the most inexpensive way to enjoy some Maltese sunshine, and Mellieha Bay is one of the longest stretches of shoreline on the island.

With bright white sands and crystal clear waters, Malta makes the perfect destination for beach holidays, plus, with most beaches offering umbrellas and sunbeds, you can enjoy a cold beer or fresh ice cream in luxury. Most of the beaches are all great for family holidays in Malta, and lots of the beaches make ideal spots for snorkelling and scuba diving because of the clear waters- so be sure to add that to your must-do list.

Out on the water, sails dot the horizon, water-skiing daredevils race by and divers prepare their equipment for a sojourn beneath the surface, so there’s plenty of opportunity to get your adrenaline fix.

Malta has plenty to do

Securing your cheap holiday to Malta couldn’t be easier, and in fact, it’s an all round must! It might be a little island, but you can never accuse it of being a boring place to be. With so much on offer, there will never be a dull moment – even lazing about on the gorgeous beaches, plus, with so much natural beauty, there’s plenty to do that won’t cost you a thing.

Cultural tours are abundant too, so you can take boating trips down to the Blue Grotto, or if you’re interested in a bit of history, head down to the famous Grand Harbour, a military location of huge strategic importance in years gone by. You can also enjoy cathedral visits in the capital and take some impressive photos.

What’s more, if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you even have the chance to tour Game of Thrones’ filming locations alongside actors who’ve appeared in the series. Fill your Instagram up recreating some of your favourite scenes!

Nature lovers will feel right at home at Malta’s falconry park or one of the numerous nature reserves. There really is plenty to do on holiday in Malta, so plan it before you jet off to make sure you don’t miss anything.

You’ll also find golf courses, bowling alleys and parks full of cricketers and football fanatics welcoming the chance to test its sporting mettle against visitors.

Evenings out

Don’t worry, when the sun sets, the fun won’t stop in Malta. Nightclubs in Sliema and feel good pubs in Mellieha Bay showcase both party atmosphere and classic Maltese laid-back living, while you’ll have numerous chances to dance until sunrise by the shore.

Cocktail bars and quirky backstreet haunts round off your choices wonderfully, so entertainment is available in Malta, morning, noon or night – even if you’re not looking for that party vibe.

St Julian’s is a popular pick for nightlife in Malta among the younger party audience. There’s a variety of venues indoors, outdoors, on rooftop terraces and even underground. With a beer costing you only €2.50 on average, you won’t be emptying your wallet like other party destinations.

You’ll tend to find that prices in Malta are similar to the UK, so it’ll be super easy to budget and make the most of your money. P

If you’re staying All Inclusive in Malta it’s certainly worth getting out for an evening or two to experience the friendly atmosphere on offer, or if you’re sticking to a strict budget for your cheap Malta holiday, make the most of happy hours and various promotional discounts that the bars have.