Nothing says true love like surprising your loved one with a spontaneous romantic getaway—just grabbing your passports and flying off for some quality one-on-one time in the sun. And if that loved one happens to be yourself—hey, that counts too. Self-love is still love!Paris, Rome, Venice, and Prague are the stereotypical destination choices for encounters of the amorous kind, but love doesn’t flourish in the predictable. There’s another underrated LGBTQ+ loving destination in Europe that ticks all the right boxes for a couple’s retreat…

Malta is the romantic gift that keeps on giving. With its blend of cultures—from Italian and Arabic to British and North African (everyone seems to have ruled Malta at some point)—the archipelago is the perfect backdrop for igniting a little passion in the heart (or loins). Its natural beauty is rivaled only by its man-made marvels: romantic cobblestone streets, golden beaches, hidden coves, and majestic fortresses overlooking crystal-clear seas. What’s more, it boasts 3,000 hours of sunshine a year—you do the math!

Having been named the world’s most LGBTQ+ friendly country by the Spartacus Gay Travel Index and set to host its next Pride from 5-14 September, 2025, its gay-friendly credentials are firmly in check. Plus, for the 10th consecutive year, Malta proudly holds the #1 ranking on the ILGA-Europe’s Rainbow Map, leading among 49 European countries ranked annually in creating a safe, inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community. So, whether you’re after a lover’s retreat or a solo escape with excellent lighting—here are just a few ideas for romantic activities in Malta to get those juices flowing…creative juices, that is. Get your mind out of the gutter!

A Tale of Valletta… Sightseeing Strolls, Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides, and Garden Picnics

Malta’s capital was once a knights’ fortress and is now affectionately referred to as “the open museum,” similar to Rome. And indeed—to use a cliché—exploring it really is like taking a walk back through time.

Valletta’s labyrinth of cobblestone streets winds around grand palaces and cathedrals. Quaint cafés—like the LGBTQ+-friendly Café Society—peddle Malta’s trademark pastry, pastizzi. Anachronistic oddities like Britain’s classic red phone boxes make for excellent talking points, and there are plenty of museums, such as the National Museum of Archaeology and MUZA Museum of Fine Arts, to make you look cultured in front of your significant other. Thanks to the city’s compact size, you can easily walk between the main sights—or go full-on old school and flag down a traditional karozzin (horse-drawn carriage).

The Upper Barrakka Gardens above Valletta are made for romantic picnics—or bold marriage proposals—with satisfying panoramic views of the harbor below. Just be sure not to time any proposals around the ceremonial firing of the garden’s cannons at midday. No one likes an explosive surprise!

Find Out How Deep Your Love is in the Blue Lagoon

Conversely, escape the city to the tranquil paradise of Malta’s Blue Lagoon. Accessible by ferry or boat, the Blue Lagoon lies on the island of Comino and is known for its vivid, crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sandy shores, idyllically framed by ivory cliffs. Hidden coves are perfect for intimate romantic swims, while gentle breezes carry the scent of wild thyme. Or engage in water sports—hehe, not that kind—like snorkeling among the lagoon’s thriving marine life.

Take Me to the (Gay) Beach at Golden Bay

Speaking of sandy shores, although many of Malta’s are pebbled, there are golden-sand beaches for those who know where to look. Golden Bay—on the opposite side of the island from Valletta and reachable by bus—is one of Malta’s most popular beaches, including with LGBTQ+ folks.

For a more intimate gay beach experience with your partner or holiday fling, walk south to the more secluded Riviera Beach. Here you’ll find the gays and—despite the fact it’s technically illegal—nudists discreetly baring all to the sun. For an even more secluded beach, keep walking south along the trail from Riviera to Ġnejna Beach. And yes, that’s where you’ll also find a discreet cruising area.

You Say It Best When You Say Nothing at All in the Silent City of Mdina

Valletta isn’t Malta’s only romance-inducing city. Mdina, Malta’s ancient walled city, is often called the “Silent City” for its serene atmosphere, narrow alleys, picturesque stone gates, expansive courtyards, medieval churches, and honey-colored buildings. Walk hand-in-hand through golden limestone streets at sunset, visit Mdina Cathedral, and enjoy a candlelit dinner at one of its charming rooftop restaurants, with views from the hilltop over the surrounding countryside.

Sunset Bliss on a Private Boat Tour

It would be a crime not to fully capitalize on Malta’s spectacular coastline with a boat tour. Book a sunset cruise from Valletta or Gozo and glide across tranquil waters, taking in the kaleidoscope of colors reflecting off the sea as the sun dips into the Mediterranean. That’s what romance is—wine included, of course! For added privacy, some charters offer secluded beach stops for a swim or a romantic picnic.

Wine and Dine with a View

Malta is a foodie’s paradise, with no shortage of romantic restaurants. In the city, try places like Republic 59 for an upscale affair beside the Grandmaster’s Palace, dining on a terrace overlooking the romantic St. George’s Square. Or book a table along the coast—such as the LGBTQ+-owned Aussie-Maltese restaurant Two Buoys (see what they did there?)—for alfresco dining and uninterrupted views of the bay below.

Vineyards are scattered across Malta’s countryside, making it easy to surprise your partner with a private wine tasting at one of the island’s local wineries. Malta’s winemaking tradition is growing, with award-winning reds and crisp whites to sample. Many wineries, such as Meridiana or Marsovin, offer guided tours and tastings, which can be arranged for small groups or private bookings.

All’s Fair in Love and War at Popeye Village

Love makes children of us all—so why not go all in and head to Popeye Village? Located in the northwest of the island, it was the set of the 1980 musical Popeye (yes, the sailor man) and is now a quirky wooden village—a cross between an open-air museum and an amusement park.

A Couple Who Parties Together, Slays Together

Malta might not be a party island per se, but the nightlife is very much alive and welcoming to couples, singles, and holiday romance-seekers alike. Michelangelo Club Lounge is Malta’s gay superclub, located in the St. Julian’s district, and is open on weekends for those who enjoy dancing between the topless hotties of the island.

The monthly queer party Lollipop is hands down the best club night on the island and worth planning your trip around. Expect a joyful mix of fashion, fun, and frolics as LGBTQ+ folks get down to international queer DJs at themed parties—sometimes poolside ones in the summer. After Pride—or after any major festival—you can count on Lollipop to throw the island’s best party.

Choosing Where the Magic Happens

Choosing where the magic happens—hopefully—is a key part of any romantic getaway. Malta offers accommodations for every style, from sea-facing boutique hotels like Two Pillows, to restored palazzos in historic towns, such as Hotel Phoenicia, to cute traditional Maltese townhouses, like the LGBTQ+ owned Indulgence Divine, with private courtyards or rooftop terraces. Whatever your ideal passion pad is, you can find it in Malta.

Wait… There’s More

The above ideas are just the tip of the rocky outcrop when it comes to romantic things to do in Malta. There are also quaint villages like Xlendi, the serene Ġgantija Temples, countless beaches, and more. For detailed information, Visit Malta is your definitive guide to all things Maltese.

If you choose Malta for a romantic getaway, you’d better be open to a third—because Malta is a country sure to steal your heart. Yes, that does sound like a cheesy chat-up line. And here’s another one for free: get your passport—you’ve pulled.