With a history dating back to 5900BC, Malta has seen it all. Its strategic location in the middle of the Mediterranean has always attracted foreign powers, and each of the many rulers it had throughout the centuries left its mark. Although it’s one of the world’s smallest archipelagos, Malta is densely populated. Nowadays, Malta is an independent republic and part of the European Union, but it still attracts millions of tourists each year, which is not surprising considering its 7000 years of history and an average of 300 sunny days a year.

The archipelago is made up of the main island of Malta, the smaller sister island of Gozo, and Comino, which sits between the former two islands. Other smaller, uninhabited islands that form part of the archipelago are Cominotto, Filfla and St Paul’s Islands.

Although small, Malta has always been popular with foreigners. Once upon a time, they used to plunder its shores. Luckily, these days they only visit the island to enjoy its culture, natural beauty and nightlife.

As hard as it is to narrow down Malta’s many must-visit places, some are more unmissable than others. First among these is the capital city of Valletta, a city ‘built by gentlemen for gentlemen’. It was built by the Knights of St John following the Great Siege of 1565, and is arguably their most ambitious project on the Maltese islands. Much of the fortress city is pedestrianised, and in its small area encompasses historic buildings, palazzi, museums, fine restaurants, cafes, magnificent churches and a bustling shopping area.

The medieval city of Mdina shares the top spot on the must-visit list with Valletta. It was Malta’s first capital and sits on a hill in the centre of the island, surrounded by fortifications which were also built by the Knights of St John. Mdina is dubbed ‘the silent city’, and is a major attraction for tourists and locals alike. Walking along its narrow, winding roads, feels like going back to a more genteel era, when Malta’s nobility inhabited this architectural jewel.

The island of Gozo is another place that cannot be missed. A minimum of a day exploring the greener island is a must. With plenty of walking trails, water sports, unspoilt beaches, prehistoric temples and Baroque churches, there is something for everyone.

Last but definitely not least is Comino, the virtually uninhabited sister island renowned for its Blue Lagoon and its popularity with Hollywood directors who filmed some major motion pictures on it.