The Malta Tourism Authority announced that the beautiful city of Valletta has been voted one of the top cities in the world to visit next year by Lonely Planet, one of the world’s leading travel authorities.

Lonely Planet recently released its Top 10 cities in their annual publication, Best in Travel 2015, and Malta’s capital Valletta was ranked at 5th place, making it the top island city in the world.

“I am delighted that Valletta has been chosen as one of the top cities in the world in this highly influential publication,” said Mr Paul Bugeja, CEO of the Malta Tourism Authority.

“This is very positive for the country, as it reinforces the Malta Tourism Authority’s strategy of positioning Malta as an ideal cultural and weekend break destination, with travel typically taking place in the winter and shoulder season months.”

Valletta has also been awarded the accolade of European Capital City of Culture 2018 and will this year commemorate 450 years since the Great Siege, with remembrance particularly strong on 8 September, Victory Day.

Malta is easily accessible from numerous destinations around the world such as the UK, Europe, Middle East and Northern Africa, thus making Valletta an ideal destination for both short weekend breaks as well as extended holidays, particularly as is just 20 minutes from Malta’s International Airport.

Malta Tourism Authority, www.visitmalta.com