A Mediterranean paradise where English is the official language and temperatures regularly reach 27°C in September, Malta is just over three hours from the UK and accessible via direct flights from 18 regional airports. This year-round destination boasts more than 300 days of sunshine annually, some of Europe‘s finest beaches, and a calendar filled with world-class festivals and events, making it a place you’ll want to revisit time and again.

Located off the coast of Sicily, Malta enjoys a prime position in the heart of the Mediterranean, offering around 200km of breathtaking coastline and 12 Blue Flag beaches, ensuring a  picturesque spot for your beach towel is never far away. The family-friendly Mellieħa Bay on Malta’s northwest coast is perfect for watersports enthusiasts, while Għajn Tuffieħa Bay offers a tranquil cove for those seeking a peaceful afternoon nap. In short, there’s a sandy stretch for every type of holidaymaker.

With the warmest average temperatures in Europe, mild winter weather, and over 3,000 hours of sunshine annually, beach visits are always on the cards, regardless of when you choose to visit, reports the Daily Mirror.

Malta’s rich history has turned the archipelago into a living museum, featuring ancient temples, historic alleyways, and Medieval fortresses ready for exploration. A more modern curiosity is the iconic red telephone boxes scattered throughout the islands, among the limited traces of British governance.

The complete capital of Valletta, built by the Knights of St John during the 16th century, has earned recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Meanwhile, the “Silent City” of Mdina – car-free and home to just 240 residents – provides the perfect location to discover centuries of history.

Pay a visit to St John’s Co-Cathedral to marvel at the brilliant golden interior and Caravaggio’s masterpiece, The Beheading of John the Baptist. Spanning more than 5m in width, it constituted the largest canvas he ever produced.

Don’t overlook the chance to investigate the remains of the magnificent Ħal-Saflieni Hypogeum (advance booking required) and the Megalithic temple complex at Ġgantija in Gozo.

Malta holds acclaim as one of Europe’s premier diving destinations. The location features more than 120 underwater sites that are perfect for marine exploration, including shipwrecks, remnants of a WWII submarine, and breathtaking reefs.

Culture Malta presents a vibrant cultural programme packed with festivals, exhibitions and community celebrations, even attracting international artists to participate in the festivities. From May to September, the village festas season reaches its peak, with local communities organising public feasts and elaborate fireworks displays in tribute to patron saints.

Consider popping by for the Isle of MTV Malta Music Festival, Europe’s largest free music festival, typically held in June or July. If you visit in October, you’ll witness Notte Bianca, when Valletta’s streets, squares, churches, palaces and museums transform into venues for complimentary live performances and concerts.

Come December, the island transforms into a magical wonderland brimming with festive events, including children’s workshops, dance performances and enchanting Christmas lights illuminating Valletta’s streets.

With an impressive tally of seven Michelin-starred restaurants, Malta has firmly established its status as a culinary capital. Traditional fare includes rustic pastizzi – flaky filo-style pastry filled with ricotta or mushy peas – alongside hearty stews and pies.

If lounging on the beach isn’t your cup of tea, then there are plenty of outdoor activities available on the island. Malta is known as ‘The Rock’ due to its dramatic coastal cliffs, deeply carved valleys and towering ridges that thrill climbers.

There are over 50 hiking and cycling routes across Malta, Gozo, and Camino that guide you along the clifftops, through country lanes and past charming villages. Alternatively, take on the Xterra Gozo Trail Run, which follows a coastline-hugging 50km route that circles the entire island.

Currently, there are numerous cheap flights available from UK airports to Malta. Departing as early as this Saturday, you can secure return flights from Belfast, Birmingham, Glasgow and Bristol for just over £100.