Malta: The Ultimate Gay-Friendly Destination in Europe
Last Updated: Jan 04, 2024
Reading Time: 7 minutes
By: Shaun
Malta is a small island nation in the Mediterranean Sea that has a lot to offer to gay travellers. It is one of the most gay-friendly countries in Europe, with progressive laws and policies that protect and promote the rights and interests of the LGBTQ+ community. It is also a beautiful and diverse destination that boasts rich culture and history, stunning natural scenery and beaches, and vibrant nightlife and entertainment options.
If you are looking for a gay holiday destination that combines sun, sea, and fun with culture, history, and diversity, then Malta is the place for you. In this article, we will tell you why Malta is a gay-friendly destination, what to expect from a gay holiday in Malta, and the best places and times to visit Malta for gays.
Why is Malta a great gay-friendly destination?
Auberge de Castille illuminated for Pride Week | Image by Feniko.57 on Wikimedia Commons
Malta has been ranked as the most LGBTQ+-friendly country in Europe by ILGA-Europe since 2016. This is because Malta has enacted several laws and policies that protect and promote the rights and interests of the LGBTQ+ community. For example:
- Same-sex marriage was legalised in 2017.
- Same-sex adoption was legalised in 2014.
- Gender identity and expression have been legally recognised and protected since 2015.
- Conversion therapy was banned in 2016.
- Since 2014, hate crimes and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity have been criminalised.
- Transgender people can change their legal gender without surgery or medical intervention since 2015.
- Intersex people have been protected from non-consensual medical interventions since 2015.
In addition to these legal advances, Malta also has a supportive and tolerant society that embraces diversity and inclusion. According to a Eurobarometer survey conducted in 2019, 93% of Maltese people agree that gay, lesbian, and bisexual people should have the same rights as heterosexual people, and 74% of Maltese people agree that there is nothing wrong with a sexual relationship between two people of the same sex.
Malta also has a vibrant and visible LGBTQ+ community that organises various events and activities throughout the year. The most notable one is Malta Pride Week, which takes place every September and features a colourful parade, concerts, parties, workshops, exhibitions, and more. In 2023, Malta Pride Week was taken to a new level as Malta hosted the prestigious EuroPride festival. Other events include the Isle of MTV Malta, which is a huge music festival that attracts international artists and thousands of visitors every summer.
What to expect from a gay holiday in Malta
A gay holiday in Malta can be as relaxing or as adventurous as you want it to be. You can enjoy the sun and the sea at one of the many beaches and bays that dot the coastline, or explore the cultural and historical attractions that showcase the rich and diverse heritage of Malta. You can also indulge in the nightlife options that cater to different tastes and preferences, or join the events and festivals that celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and culture.
Malta has a variety of accommodation options that suit different budgets and needs. You can choose from hotels, resorts, apartments, guesthouses, hostels, or even farmhouses. There are no exclusively gay hotels or neighbourhoods in Malta, but there are some gay-friendly ones that welcome LGBTQ+ travellers and offer special services and amenities.
Malta also has a small but lively gay scene that is concentrated in three main areas: Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian’s. These areas have several gay-friendly bars, clubs, lounges, cafes, restaurants, and shops that cater to different tastes and preferences.
Best Places to Visit in Malta for Gays
Malta is a small country that can be easily explored by car or public transport. It has three main islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino. Each island has its own charm and attractions that appeal to different types of travellers. Here are some of the best places to visit in Malta for gays:
Valletta: The cultural and historical capital
Michelangelo Club Lounge
Valletta is the capital city of Malta and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a fortified city that was built by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century. It has a rich and diverse history that is reflected in its architecture, monuments, museums, and art. Some of the highlights of Valletta are St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the magnificent views of the harbour from the Upper Barrakka Gardens, the National Museum of Archaeology, and the Grand Master’s Palace.
Valletta also has a gay scene that is mostly concentrated on Strait Street. Some of the gay-friendly venues here are:
- Michelangelo Club Lounge, a cosy and elegant lounge that hosts drag shows, karaoke nights, and themed parties like the monthly Proud and Loud event. It is considered the best gay venue on the island.
- The Thirsty Barber, a vintage and classy bar that serves cocktails, wines, and beers; and Loop Bar, a hip and funky bar that plays indie, rock, and alternative music.
- Maori Bar is named after the HMS Maori wreck in the sea nearby. It has a chill atmosphere and offers drinks, snacks, and a view of the sea and the city. It is not an exclusive gay bar, but its gay owners definitely make it a gay-friendly venue.
Sliema and St. Julians
Pride Flag on Building in St. Julians, celebrating Pride Week
Sliema and St. Julian’s are the two main tourist hotspots on Malta. These two towns are also the residence of most expats in Malta, who choose these towns not only for their close proximity to the companies they work for but also because these towns are the nightlife and entertainment hub of Malta. Here are some highlights from these two towns:
The Sliema Promenade is a long and scenic promenade that stretches along the coast of Sliema and offers a stunning view of the sea and the city. Some of the gay-friendly venues here are MedAsia Playa, a chic and stylish beach club that offers sunbeds, umbrellas, pools, jacuzzis, and a sushi bar; Tiffany’s Bistro Bar, a casual and friendly bistro that serves pizzas, burgers, salads, and drinks; and The Black Gold Saloon, a popular and lively pub that offers live music, sports screenings, and quiz nights.
Paceville is the nightlife and entertainment hub of Malta. It has numerous bars, clubs, pubs, casinos, cinemas, and restaurants that cater to different crowds and moods. Some of the gay-friendly venues here are Tom Bar, a small and cosy bar that offers cheap drinks, friendly staff, and a mixed crowd; Monaliza Lounge, a sophisticated and elegant lounge that offers cocktails, wines, champagnes, and tapas; and AXM Club Malta, a large and modern club that hosts drag shows, live performances, DJs, and themed parties.
Events and festivals in Malta for gays
Malta has a rich and diverse culture that is celebrated through various events and festivals throughout the year. Some of these events and festivals are especially relevant and appealing for gays, as they showcase the LGBTQ+ community and culture. Some of these events and festivals include:
Isle of MTV Malta
Isle Of MTV
Isle of MTV Malta is a huge music festival that takes place every June or July in Floriana. It attracts international artists and thousands of visitors who enjoy live performances, DJs, and fireworks. It is a free event that is open to everyone who loves music and fun. It also has a gay-friendly vibe and atmosphere that welcomes all members of the LGBTQ community.
Conclusion
Malta is a gay-friendly destination that offers a lot for gay travellers. It has progressive laws and policies that protect and promote the rights and interests of the LGBTQ+ community. It has a supportive and tolerant society that embraces diversity and inclusion and a vibrant and visible LGBTQ+ community that organises various events and activities throughout the year.
Malta is also a beautiful and diverse destination that boasts rich culture and history, stunning natural scenery and beaches, and vibrant nightlife and entertainment options. Its three main islands, Malta, Gozo, and Comino, each have their own charm and attractions that appeal to different types of travellers.
Malta is a year-round destination for gays, as it has a Mediterranean climate that is characterised by hot and dry summers and mild and wet winters. If you are looking for a gay holiday destination that combines sun, sea, and fun with culture, history, and diversity, then Malta is the place for you. Book your trip now and discover why Malta is a holiday destination for gays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Malta safe for gays?
Yes, Malta is safe for gays. It has progressive laws and policies that protect and promote the rights and interests of the LGBT+ community. It also has a supportive and tolerant society that embraces diversity and inclusion. It also has a low crime rate and a high level of security.
How do I get to Malta?
The easiest way to get to Malta is by plane. Malta has an international airport that is located in Luqa, about 10 kilometres from Valletta. It has flights to and from various destinations in Europe, Africa, and Asia. You can also get to Malta by ferry from Italy or Sicily. There are regular ferries that operate between Malta and Pozzallo.
How do I get around Malta?
The best way to get around Malta is by car or public transport. Malta has a good road network that connects the main towns and attractions. You can rent a car from various agencies or use taxis or ride-hailing services. Malta also has a public transport system that consists of buses and ferries. You can use buses to travel within and between the islands. You can use ferries to travel between Malta and Gozo or Comino.
When is the best time for gays to visit Malta?
The best time for gays to visit Malta is in September, when the annual Malta Pride Week is organised with many activities around the islands. In 2023, this event will be catapulted to a new level as Malta will instead be the host for EuroPride.
