Visitors should not miss the magnificent capital city of Malta, Valletta. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting a magnificent natural harbour, it is one of the great architectural showpieces of the Mediterranean. Although the city is a busy commercial centre, it retains a charming atmosphere and among the tangle of narrow streets you'll find some of Europe's finest art works, churches and palaces. You'll come across intriguing architecture and historical sites around every corner: statues, niches, fountains and coats of arms carved on parapets. A helpful audio tour-guide of Valletta is available from the National Museum of Archaeology. Shopping is a delight in Valletta; side streets are full of little shops selling antiques, books, jewellery and much more. For top-quality fashion try Valletta's main street, Republic Street. When you need to stop for lunch or a rest, the city enjoys plenty of squares, courtyards, gardens and any number of cafes and restaurants, right on cue. If you prefer a cafe walk down to Piazza Regina in Republic Street to Cafe Cordina, a local institution with it's vaulted ceiling, cafe bar and tea rooms rolled into one.

The island's old capital is Mdina, considered to be one of the most beautiful examples of an inhabited medieval citadel in Europe. With no traffic, it is referred to locally as the silent city a truly timeless atmosphere which simply needs to be experienced. Narrow streets, filled with sunshine and sharp shadows, connect Baroque buildings, churches and palaces. The Cathedral, dedicated to St Peter and St Paul, is packed with religious treasures and has the most beautiful baroque facade. Take a break, enjoy a coffee and chocolate cake in the peace of the Fontanella Tea Gardens, famed for its beautiful views and tranquil setting.

For a perfect evening, we recommend you visit the Three Cities of Malta: Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua. Take a guided tour so you don't miss anything hidden away amongst the squares and tiny streets and admire the wonderful views of the Grand Harbour and the bastions of Valletta. After the tour, stop for dinner or stroll through the Vittoriosa marina with its mix of hip restaurants and wine bars.