Scoring 95.76, Valletta follows Bangkok, Paris, Istanbul and Rome in the 2026 list. It was crowned the world’s best city last year, and its latest ranking keeps it firmly among travellers’ favourite destinations.

Condé Nast Traveller praises Valletta for its lively creative scene and its ability to feel both historic and contemporary. Founded by the Knights of St John in the 16th century, the capital is known for its honey-coloured limestone buildings, grand Baroque architecture and narrow streets, where historic palazzos sit alongside cafés, restaurants and independent shops.

There is plenty to see within its compact streets. Step inside St John’s Co-Cathedral to admire its ornate interior and two paintings by Caravaggio, take in the views across the Grand Harbour from the Upper Barrakka Gardens, or visit Fort St Elmo and the National War Museum to explore Malta’s military history. Republic Street and Merchant Street are worth a wander, too, with shops, cafés and restaurants to discover along the way.