Copyright birminghammail
The 'best city in the world' is currently basking in 24°C sunshine, and it's a direct flight away from Birmingham . If you're fed up with the drizzly shores of the UK, then one straightforward place to escape to is Valletta. Malta's capital is amongst the finest spots for winter warmth and has been enjoying temperatures comfortably in the 20s so far this November. There are direct flights available from Birmingham City Airport this November for just £15, with the journey taking a little over three hours. And it's not just sunshine that the Maltese city is offering. Valletta has also been named the best city in the world for tourists, according to responses gathered by Condé Nast Traveller for its 2025 Readers' Choice Awards . The survey asked about a range of things, including a city's walkability, cultural gems, nightlife and hotels. Condé Nast described the "sun-soaked capital" as feeling both "ancient and fresh" at the same time. The publication also praised the Maltese capital for having "one of Europe's buzziest creative scenes bubbling above foundations built by knights." Valletta is a compact yet impressive city, with a population of just over 5,000 residents. In terms of things to do, there is plenty on offer here. The top-rated tourist attraction in Valletta is St. John's Co-Cathedral, which was built in the 1500s. Military and maritime history play a significant role in Valletta and Malta as a whole. Other top-rated tourist attractions where this side of the country's identity is explored include Lascaris War Rooms, Saluting Battery and the National War Museum. Tourists also enjoy exploring Upper Barrakka Gardens, Valletta Waterfront, Grandmaste Valletta, despite its compact size, is brimming with attractions such as the Grandmaster's Palace and Barrakka Lift. Beyond the city, Malta, a small island of just 122 square miles, offers an array of accessible delights. Malta's best beaches include the renowned Blue Lagoon, St Peter's Pool, Ramla Bay, Golden Bay, Golden Sands Beach and Armier Bay Beach. Mellieħa Bay, stretching 800m along Malta's northwest coast, is perfect for families and watersports enthusiasts, while Għajn Tuffieħa Bay is a tranquil cove ideal for a relaxing afternoon. In short, there's a beach to suit every type of holidaymaker. With Europe's warmest average temperatures, mild winter weather and over 3,000 hours of sunshine annually, a beach visit is always on the cards, regardless of when you choose to go. A more modern curiosity is the distinctive red telephone boxes scattered across the islands, one of the few remaining signs of British rule. The entire capital of Valletta, built by the Knights of St John in the 16th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Malta is acknowledged as one of Europe's top diving destinations. The island boasts over 120 underwater sites ripe for exploration, featuring shipwrecks, remnants of a WWII submarine, and stunning reefs. In December, the island transforms into a magical wonderland filled with festive events, including children's workshops, dance performances and enchanting Christmas lights illuminating the streets of Valletta. With an impressive seven Michelin-starred restaurants, Malta's culinary scene is also worth exploring. Malta has firmly established itself as a gastronomic hub. Traditional dishes include rustic pastizzi – a flaky filo-like pastry filled with ricotta or mushy peas – as well as robust stews and pies. Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com
