Malta

Rating: ★★★★★ (4.9 / 5)

Malta is a small archipelago in the middle of the Mediterranean that contains an astonishing density of history, from Neolithic temples that pre-date Stonehenge to the fortified baroque capital of Valletta, which the entire island seems to be built in and around. The Knights of St John left an indelible mark on the islands during their long rule, and their influence is visible in the limestone fortifications, cathedrals, and palaces that crowd the harbours of the Grand Harbour area. With its warm climate, crystalline waters, and a deeply traditional Maltese culture that is genuinely distinct from its Italian and North African neighbours, Malta offers a richly layered experience in one of Europe's most compact destinations.