Malta may be a small archipelago that consists of three islands, Malta, Comino and Gozo, and has a population of around 533,000 people. But, what it has to offer in culture, history and gastronomy is enormous. Because of its location, Malta is a melting pot where Mediterranean, European and Arabic cultures are all protagonists, and have left its mark in the country’s architecture and cuisine. On top of that, it has nice warm weather, with more than 300 days of sunshine per year, crystalline waters and beautiful beaches. Thus, Malta is a must-see travel destination, ready to share all of its secrets and wonders with those who visit.
However, in this blog we wanted to focus on the LGBTQIA+ community, which we just know will love Malta for its openness and tolerance. Even though Malta is a deeply Roman Catholic country, over the years it has taken huge steps to become an accepting and safe space for LGBTQIA+ locals and visitors. What’s more, it has been widely regarded as the most advanced place in Europe in terms of LGBTQIA+ rights. It is one of the few countries around the world that have made LGBTQIA+ rights equal on a constitutional level, and it was the first country in the European Union to ban conversion therapies in 2016. Because of this, Malta has become a very popular destination among LGBTQIA+ tourists. The local LGBTQIA+ community is very keen on helping and guiding the visitors, making recommendations of the best restaurants, bars and attractions of Malta, Gozo and Comino. They are also attentive to recommend the best gay-friendly hotels and accommodations, as well as particular activities for the community.
Let’s dive into how the LGBTQIA+ travelers can enjoy Valletta, Malta’s capital, from its amazing nightlife to the absolutely delicious local food. Regardless of what you decide to do, fortunately you’ll find a safe space to be your true self and become part of the local LGBTQIA+ community.
Malta is widely regarded as the staple of LGBTQIA+ rights in Europe.
Try Their Mouth Watering Cuisine
Maltese cuisine is very unique, because it is the result of combining ingredients, flavors and preparations from different parts of the world, such as Britain, Italy, France and Arab countries. Throughout the centuries, Malta saw different occupiers come and go, but what left a mark was their influence in the local gastronomy. Around Valletta, you’ll see how rabbit and honey are two local ingredients that stand out in different preparations, and that seafood is also very popular, as part of the Mediterranean identity of the archipelago.
Let us introduce you some of the best dining options in Malta, that of course, are also LGBTQIA+ friendly. 59 Republic is one of Valletta’s most popular restaurants for fine dining, and it is located pretty close to the historic Grandmasters Palace Square. Its menu is very international, but since it uses seasonal ingredients as well, there’s always a particular touch of Malta, regardless of the dish. For something less formal, we highly recommend Kantina Café, that you’ll find at St John’s Square. There you can enjoy a coffee or cocktail, or grab a quick lunch in between discovering Malta. At night, it is a great place to relax and witness Valletta’s tranquility while grabbing dinner with a fine glass of wine.
Also, for the complete local gastronomical experience, you should go to the Is-Suq tal-Belt Food Market, situated in a historical building of over 230 years, that was just renovated. On the outside, it is a Victorian-era beautiful building, while on the inside it has been transformed to represent the central place in the city to eat, shop and relax. Whatever it is that you want, you most certainly will find it there, because you have four floors of restaurants, delicatessen and fruits and vegetables stalls to search for what you're craving.
This 230 years old building is home to the Is-Suq tal-Belt Food Market.
Explore the Adventurous Nightlife
In reality, the LGBTQIA+ nightlife scene is not as strong, but for a good reason! Since, the community’s rights and its acceptance have become so embedded in Malta’s society, they are welcomed everywhere, and thus, dedicated places are not as necessary. However, there is one spot that is renowned for its LGBTQIA+ nature, which is Michelangelo Lounge, located around 15 minutes from the center of Valletta. This two-leveled place, with a state-of-the-art sound system, a dance floor, lounge bar and private areas is a wonderful and beloved place of the local LGBTQIA+ community, ready to welcome those visitors up for an unforgettable night.
Even if the LGBTQIA+ scene is small, there are some party and event organizers that make sure that all year round there are LGBTQIA+ experiences that strengthen the sense of community in Malta. Station2Station, Lollipop and BeatBears present are some of the most popular organizers, that you’ll constantly see renting clubs, boats and bars to bring the LGBTQIA+ party everywhere around Malta.
It may be surprising for some, but there aren’t many LGBTQIA+ dedicated clubs or bars. That doesn’t mean that there aren’t plenty of events and parties organized specially by members of the community.
Community Friendly Beaches
Clearly, a visit to Malta without exploring its beaches would be awfully incomplete. Even if there are no official LGBTQIA+ dedicated beaches, there are some where the community gravitates towards, and thanks to the openness of Maltese society, there’s no limit to where members of the community can safely go.
First of all, there is Għajn Tuffieħa Bay, a beach with amazing views, pristine clay slopes and golden sand to walk around. This is a very popular beach, and it is easily-accessible. If you take the bus route 44 from Valletta, soon you’ll be enjoying a sunny day at the Bay. If you’re looking for more privacy, once you get to the main beach in Għajn Tuffieħa Bay, walk towards the cove and on the left, you’ll find a second smaller and secluded beach. Precisely, this part of the Bay is very popular among the LGBTQIA+ community and nudists. Unofficially, the authorities tend to let people undisturbed in this part of the beach. Nonetheless, bear in mind that nudism is illegal in Malta, and being caught carries a pricey fine.
Ras il-Qarraba is another beach where members of the LGBTQIA+ community can be found. It is made up of two beaches that are separated on the west of the island, and that is the favorite place of the community in Ras il-Qarraba. Since there are fallen rocks scattered around the place, they create the perfect opportunities to have privacy. Also, this is not a very crowded beach, so you only have to worry about stumbling upon some lone trekker. If you find more people there, they are probably also part of the LGBTQIA+ community, since it is a place recognized in the community.
There’s no complete trip to Malta without enjoying its golden-sand beaches and crystal clear water.
Experience a Stunning Pride
We can’t talk about a LGBTQIA+ trip to Malta without discussing its wonderful Pride March! The Malta LGBTIQ+ Rights Movement organized the first Pride Demonstration of the country in 2004, although not more than 50 people marched through the streets of Valletta. Each year, the demonstrations kept growing, until in 2016, the Malta Pride broke its record with the participation of over 1,000 people. Afterwards, the power of these events in Malta just kept getting stronger, and by 2019, 8,000 people (which accounts for approximately 2% of the country’s population) participated in the Pride March and the rest of the events organized for Pride Week.
There has been such success in terms of the recognition of LGBTQIA+ rights in Malta, that the country is seen as an example for all of the European Union. To celebrate Malta as the best country in Europe for LGBTQIA+ people and to keep being oneself loudly and proudly, it has been decided that EuroPride 2023 will be held in Valletta. From 7 to 17 September, there will be marches, parties, concerts and all kinds of events dedicated to commemorate the struggles and celebrate the victories of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Valletta will host EuroPride 2023, one of the biggest European LGBTQIA+ events.
As you can see, Malta is a country with a very interesting history, breathtaking scenery and mouth watering food. It is the perfect example of a melting pot, where cultures from all around the world gathered, spread and mixed, to create the particularities that make Malta one-of-a-kind. Thankfully, it is also a country that has recognized the importance of LGBTQIA+ rights and that throughout the years, has become a staple of kindness, tolerance and welcoming. What better way to enjoy your vacations than by visiting a beautiful paradise where you can gladly be yourself. What are you waiting for?
Originally Written: Nadim Kassymov
Edited: Vinita Malik, María Carolina Giraldo
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