Floating in the heart of the Mediterranean, just south of Sicily, Malta trumps it as far as geography is concerned. An archipelago of three islands, the charming and sunny Malta may sometimes be overlooked as far as gay destinations in Europe go. Well, we’re here to tell you it shouldn’t be. What Malta may lack in size, it certainly makes up for in terms of tolerance and openness, as the island is, in fact, incredibly LGBTQ+ friendly.
Valletta, the capital city of Malta, is a vibrant and lively destination that offers something for everyone. And while we’d like to tell you that the city was an undiscovered gem, it is already well on people’s radars. In fact, in 2018, Valletta was honored with the coveted title of European City of Culture. The city is home to many landmarks and attractions, including the St. John's Co-Cathedral, which is a beautiful and ornate religious building that is known for its elaborate interior decorations. The city's famous Barrakka Gardens are also a must-see, offering stunning views of the harbor and the city's historic fortifications. With over 7,000 years of intriguing history and idyllic architecture that’s bathed in the Mediterranean sun, it makes perfect sense that gay Valletta is becoming a travel destination hotspot.
Vallette is a popular destination for the gay community because it is a welcoming and inclusive city that celebrates diversity. The city has a long history of tolerance and acceptance, and this is reflected in its thriving gay scene. One of the main attractions for the gay community in Valletta is the city's vibrant nightlife scene. There are many gay-friendly bars and clubs in the city. The city's main gay district is located around the Strait Street area, where many of the city's best gay bars and clubs can be found.
Malta is also home to several gay events throughout the year that attract both visitors and locals alike. The city's Gay Pride parade is a popular event that attracts visitors from all over the world. Malta Pride takes place each year at the end of summer in mid-September and includes a parade featuring colorful floats and performances along with several key events in local clubs. The parade is a celebration of the city's vibrant and diverse gay community. Valletta also welcomed TropOut Festival for the first time in 2018. In 2023, Malta is hosting the 2023 Europride. If you're after some sun, history, and a decent dose of LGBTQ+ culture, put gay Valletta on your gaycation bucket list.