In Malta, remote Ghajn Tuffieha Bay on the north-west coast is a must visit for some alone time. With its reddish-golden sand, it’s a quieter alternative to more popular and often crowded beaches. We also love St Peter’s Pool, a natural rock pool in Delimara for secluded swimming and sunbathing. For history-loving couples, the UNESCO-listed ancient Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni, a mysterious underground burial chamber, shouldn’t be missed, nor should the old capital, Mdina, at night, when lit by candles. And don’t forget to visit the ‘Love Bench’ in Valletta, with views over the Grand Harbour.

Neighbouring Gozo is wonderful for romantic walks along the cliffs or through lovely countryside. Don’t miss Xlendi, a fishing village on a gorgeous bay, which is ideal for an intimate seaside dinner. There are also dive sites here suitable for all levels. Malta also has six Michelin-starred restaurants for those special date nights, while local wineries offer tastings accompanied by vineyard views.

For solo travellers…

Adventure tours are popular on Malta and Gozo, including off-road jeep safaris, kayaking, and horse riding, as are adventurous activities such as rock climbing, windsurfing, and scuba diving – these islands are renowned for their marine life and shipwrecks.

The Maltese capital Valletta is packed with well-preserved Baroque architecture and historic sites, including the Upper Barrakka Gardens and the Grandmaster’s Palace, while guided tours of ancient sites, including Hagar Qim, Mnajdra, and Tarxien temples, and Hal Saflieni Hypogeum are ideal for history buffs.

On Gozo, don’t miss the capital Victoria (Rabat) with its citadel with panoramic views and its Feast of Santa Marija inviting you to immerse yourself in local culture. There’s also fantastic hiking and climbing, especially at Ramla Bay and Ta’Cenc Cliffs, while Marsalforn has plenty of waterfront restaurants to discover.

Meanwhile, group outdoor adventures include snorkelling, sea kayaking, and paddleboarding. Afterwards, refuel with a seafood lunch by the harbour in the fishing village of Marsaxlokk, known for its colourful boats and Sunday fish market. If you and your friends are Game of Thrones fans, you will be delighted by a tour of the show’s filming locations, and there’s also the National Aquarium and Popeye Village which acted as the film set of the 1980 musical production ‘Popeye’.

Malta and Gozo are also great for dining out. Don’t miss pastizzi (savoury pastries), rabbit stew (fenek), and the wine bars of Valletta which are sociable spots for local vintages. There’s lively nightlife on offer too, especially Paceville (a district in St Julian’s) on Malta or Gozo’s Xlendi with its seafront bars.