Valletta, the capital city of Malta, has received the top honor in Condé Nast Traveller's 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards, being named the best city in Europe. This Mediterranean destination achieved a near-perfect score of 97.33, distinguishing itself among many other European cities. Known for its historic stone walls and Baroque architecture, Valletta is recognized as a significant cultural and historical site.
Key Takeaways
- Valletta, Malta, ranked as Europe's best city in Condé Nast Traveller's 2025 awards.
- The city earned a score of 97.33, highlighting its appeal.
- Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its Baroque architecture.
- It is Europe's smallest capital by both size and population.
- The city offers historical attractions and is a popular filming location.
Valletta's Unique Charm and History
Valletta stands out as Europe's smallest capital city, both in terms of land area and resident population. Despite its compact size, the city is rich in history and culture. Its impressive stone walls encircle a network of narrow, undulating lanes that define its urban landscape. The city's design and preservation contribute to its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The city was constructed in the 16th century by the Knights of St. John. This historical background is evident in its many landmarks. Visitors can explore sites such as the St. John's Co-Cathedral, known for its ornate interior, and the Grand Master's Palace, which once served as the residence of the Grand Master of the Knights of St. John.
Quick Facts on Valletta
- Award Score: 97.33 in Condé Nast Traveller's 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards.
- Historical Origin: Built by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century.
- Sunlight: Experiences approximately 300 days of sunshine each year.
- Filming Location: Featured in productions like Game of Thrones and Jurassic World: Dominion.
Travel Experience and Costs in Valletta
Traveling to Valletta is relatively accessible for many European visitors. For example, flights from the UK typically take around three hours. Once in the city, visitors can find a range of amenities and services.
According to data from Numbeo, a cost of living website, a beer within Valletta's fortress walls costs approximately €4.29, which is about £3.73. Accommodation prices can vary significantly. For instance, a weekend hotel stay in August 2026, as reported by TripAdvisor, might range from £150 to £200 per night. More budget-friendly options can be found for around £80 per night.
"Valletta is described as a 'tiny jewel in the Mediterranean', offering a unique blend of history, architecture, and scenic beauty that captivates visitors," stated a Condé Nast Traveller representative.
Historical Context of Valletta
The city of Valletta was strategically planned and built after the Great Siege of Malta in 1565. Its construction was a significant undertaking, designed to be a fortress city. The Baroque style, prevalent throughout the city, reflects the architectural trends of its founding era. This historical foundation is a major draw for tourists interested in European heritage.
Beyond the Walls: Views and Filming Locations
Valletta's location on a peninsula means it is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea. This provides visitors with expansive views of its harbors and the surrounding waters. The city's natural beauty and historical setting have also made it an attractive location for film and television productions.
The city has served as a backdrop for several notable productions. These include popular series like Game of Thrones and major films such as Jurassic World: Dominion and American Assassin. This cinematic history further adds to its appeal as a travel destination.
The consistent sunshine, with reports of 300 sunny days per year, enhances the visitor experience, making it an ideal location for outdoor exploration and sightseeing.
Other Top European Cities Recognized
The Condé Nast Traveller list featured several other notable European cities. Oslo, Norway, secured the second position with an impressive score of 94.36. Oslo was praised for its unique architecture and its proximity to forests and fjords.
Vienna, Austria, placed third for the second consecutive year, achieving a score of 93.75. Copenhagen, Denmark, and Madrid, Spain, shared the fourth spot, both scoring 93.33. Munich, Germany, followed in sixth place with a score of 92.89.
Condé Nast Traveller's Best Cities in Europe (Top 10)
- Valletta, Malta (97.33)
- Oslo, Norway (94.36)
- Vienna, Austria (93.75)
- Copenhagen, Denmark (93.33)
- Madrid, Spain (93.33)
- Munich, Germany (92.89)
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Stockholm, Sweden
- San Sebastian, Spain
- Palma, Spain
The list also included other popular destinations such as Florence, Italy; Athens, Greece; Rome, Italy; Paris, France; Marseille, France; Reykjavik, Iceland; Porto, Portugal; Venice, Italy; Budapest, Hungary; and Prague, Czech Republic. These rankings highlight the diverse appeal of European cities to global travelers.
Accommodation prices mentioned are correct for August 14-16, 2026, as of October 7, 2025, according to TripAdvisor data.
