Amid the gloomy British weather, many of us are longing for warmer days, basking in some well-needed sunshine. Yet, a trip abroad doesn’t need to come with a hefty price tag, as there are some beautiful destinations offering affordable flights and guaranteed sunshine.

One European destination that has been praised for its ‘beautiful historic’ city and port that is a ‘must visit’ has direct flights available from just £17. Malta is just over three hours from the UK, with Ryanair offering some of the cheapest flights, as shown on Skyscanner.

Those looking to escape the cold can bask in up to 20C in Malta during April, or a warming 17C in March, with the country welcoming around 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, making it one of Europe’s sunniest countries. From its crystal clear blue waters to stunning coastlines, natural pools, coves, charming towns, and cities, there’s plenty to soak up in what has often been described as the ‘Jewel of the Mediterranean’.

Notably, it has been found that more than 80 per cent of Malta’s population speaks English, as it is an official language, so those anxious about language barriers need not worry. Additionally, it is considered a safe place to travel and has openly welcomed holidaymakers to explore its rich history and scenic landscapes.

One of Malta’s most striking features is the historic port of Valletta, which was named the ‘world’s most beautiful port’ last year by Travel insurance company AllClear Travel. Located in the capital’s Grand Harbour, it serves as a major cruise and commercial hub within its deep blue waters.

Visitors can stroll along the vibrant waterfront, lined with honey-coloured buildings, and stop by the 18th-century warehouses that have been converted into thriving shops, cafes, and restaurants. One visitor to the harbour shared on TripAdvisor: “This is the ultimate Malta experience.

“Very beautiful historic core of Valletta and cities around (Vittoriosa, Senglea, Cospicua, Kalkara), no one can stay unimpressed. History is everywhere, and the spirit of the Knights Hospitaller is still all around. Very enjoyable walk around the Valletta Grand Harbour, recommended to all.”

A second said: “A great place for a stroll while enjoying the lovely harbour view or to have a coffee, drink or something to eat as there are various restaurants on the promenade.”

“What an experience, the architecture and the amazing natural harbour is something to be seen and a definite must when in Malta – not to be missed,” noted a third.

While a fourth also shared: “Valletta is an amazing and beautiful city. The waterfront is a must, and if you want to see the gun salute at noon, get there early for a good view, as it gets very crowded.”

Just a short walk from the port is the city centre of Valletta, offering an enchanting and welcoming escape, known locally as ‘Il-Belt’, meaning ‘the city’. The fortified city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, brimming with quaint cobblestone lanes, grand Baroque palaces, tranquil gardens and historic churches to explore.

While it’s a city, it offers some fairly affordable prices, which only adds to its allure. Traditional Maltese savoury pastries, known as Pastizzi, can be snapped up for a mere 90p, while wraps start at around £4 for a quick and easy lunch on the go!

One traveller who visited the capital shared on TripAdvisor: “Beautiful city. Wonderful monuments, beautiful weather. Good footwear for walking around aimlessly. Superb war museum worth visiting, very well done.”

Another shared: “Visiting it is even more beautiful than it appears from photos, videos and reviews. An incredible concentration of historical, artistic and cultural sites and riches makes it resemble a small Italy. Beautiful and very much alive, Valletta! Definitely worth a visit!”

Aside from Valletta, there are other inviting places to visit in Malta, including Mdina, a walled medieval city known as the ‘Silent City’, with narrow alleys, a charming, relaxed atmosphere surrounded by majestic Baroque and Norman architecture. There are also three historic fortified cities, Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua, located just across the Grand Harbour from Valletta, that are steeped in history.

Away from the city, there’s plenty of coastline to admire, including some of Malta’s most famed spots like the turquoise Blue Lagoon on the small island of Comino, or the golden sand beaches and clear waters along Golden Bay. Malta’s largest sand beach, located along Mellieha Bay, has proven popular among families due to its calm and shallow waters, while the natural pool and coves at St. Peter’s Pool have proven a hit for those looking to snorkel.

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