Last Updated
There are many trendy destinations in Europe, but some stand out among the rest.
Beaches are in high demand right now across the globe, and picking one to splurge on vacation can be a tough decision.
Especially when it comes to Europe.
You don't want to spend your sunny vacation days on an overcrowded beach because let's just say swimwear isn't exactly fitting.
Despite the potential risk of unsightly Speedos, multiple publications have hyped up one Mediterranean island in particular as a top getaway this year.
We all know Greece, Croatia, and Italy, but even as this country has broken all-time tourism records, sometimes the stunning island of Malta still doesn't get the credit it deserves.
Here is why this Mediterranean island is being hyped as a top European destination for 2024:
Ranked The #1 Beach Destination In Europe
Forbes recently released their rankings of the 15 most beautiful beaches in Europe.
The destinations you expect, like Portugal, Spain, and Greece, made the list, but Malta came out on top.
Specifically, Ghajn Tuffieha Bay Beach was the winner, given its commitment to sustainable tourism, ultra-clean beaches, and one really unique aspect—the remains of Roman baths.
Beachgoers will find themselves in their own little paradise, with picture-perfect blue waters to enjoy whether swimming or sunbathing.
Nearby restaurants and bars are easy to access for scrumptious eats and amazing seaside views.
Located near the coastal town of Mellieha, it's not hard to reach for a sunny getaway amongst a gorgeous cliffside.
The Islands Of Gozo And Comino
More Maltese beach destinations gaining attention are the stunning islands of Gozo and Comino, which together make up 21 of Malta's islands.
Comino is home to a blue lagoon far from what Iceland offers. This lagoon is considered to be one of the most jaw-dropping sites in the Med.
This is the perfect spot for those unafraid of what lurks below and actually enjoy getting in the water as it's clean and clear and an absolute must when visiting Malta.
Gozo, on the other hand, is a lesser-known island both history buffs and thrill-seekers will love. Home to Neolithic Ġgantija Temple ruins, incredible beaches, and an array of water activities, like Comino, it is easy to reach by ferry and well worth the trip.
This Small Capital City Packs A Punch
Sure, Malta is undoubtedly a place to escape the hustle and bustle of major cities for some much needed beach time.
But Valletta should not be skipped much like Athens or Thessaloniki shouldn't be skipped when visiting the Greek Islands.
Some urban exploration in your travelers is always nice, even when intermixed with bucket-list beaches, especially when it's so easy to explore with only about 6,000 residents.
Both aesthetically pleasing and culturally rich, the eye-popping city of Valetta makes for a great base or a day trip at the very least.
Although the smallest capital city in the European Union, like other major historic cities, there are delightful cobbled streets, historic cathedrals, and your quintessential sidewalk cafes you know you have to stop by.
This is the Med, after all. Don't you want to be outside as much as possible?
At the end of the day, Valletta is a small town of historical significance, but you really can't go wrong hopping around the country and visiting any Maltese town or village as there's no large city like its neighbors.
Easy Flight Connections Across Europe
Malta's former award-winning flagship carrier, Air Malta, shuttered in recent months, but there's no need to stress over making travel plans.
There are no direct flights from the U.S., but a stopover in Europe is pretty typical if not going to an iconic city like Barcelona, Paris, or Rome.
Malta does have a new airline, KM Malta Airlines, connecting to popular destinations, but there are at least a dozen other European airlines that fly to Malta, such as Ryanair, Wizz, easyJet, and Lufthansa.
Malta has been featured as the Best LGBTQ+ destination, Best Destination to Dive, Best Destination for Families, as well as the third best destination to visit in Europe this year, making this island nation all the more enticing to book a flight no matter your vacation style.
↓ Elevate Your Travel↓
Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium! No ads, VIP Content, Personal Travel Concierge, Huge Savings, Daily Deals, Members Forum & More!
✈️Join Our Travel Off Path Community Forum: Where travelers unite, ask questions, share experiences and even find like-minded travel buddies!
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS
Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path's latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.
This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.