One of the three principal islands of the Maltese archipelago, the island of Malta is the largest of the chain. Its capital Valletta, a lively, bustling city with many buildings dating back to the 16th century, teems with cathedrals, palaces and forts. The impressive Grand Harbour offers a dramatic arrival. The top archaeological attraction is the UNESCO-designated Hypogeum temple ruins, a macabre, 5400-square-foot underground necropolis and the world's only underground prehistoric temple.

Saint Julian's is a popular vacation spot on the coast of Malta. The small town successfully blends its fishing village charm with its tourist center. Latin architecture, such as Spinola Palace, built in 1688, and the Old Parish Church are popular historical sites. Divers will enjoy exploring shipwrecks via the Divewise Center.  The renovated Paceville district, a former military haunt in the 1930s, is now the hub of Saint Julian's nightlife with an array of restaurants, bars, and clubs. 

Whether it’s day or night, the resort town of Sliema thrums with activity. Historic cathedrals, watchtowers, and forts spatter the area, while along the waterfront locals shop, dine, bar hop, or stroll along the promenade for views of the shimmering Mediterranean.

Founded in 1565 by the Order of St John as a refuge for soldiers returning from the Crusades, Valletta is now the capital of Malta and a piece of living history. With an unsurpassed collection of original Baroque architecture, fortified city walls overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, and the spectacular Co-Cathedral of St John, which features intricately carved stone vaults and a famed painting by Caravaggio, it is no wonder that this smallest of European capital cities is a world heritage site.

Comprising the provinces of Alicante, Valencia and Castellon, Valencian Country basks on the Mediterranean Coast in central southeastern Spain. The densely populated area is a prime tourist destination, with Valencia city having the reputation as the place the Spanish go to party. The area offers budget resorts, such as those on the Costa Blanca, to upscale villas in elegant Valencia. Small villages are scattered through the mountainous inland region, but it's the coast that remains the main draw.