A year ago, the shimmering Mediterranean islands of Malta were the beating heart of European LGBTQ+ celebrations during its inaugural EuroPride. Streets were awash in rainbow progress flags, and the air buzzed with the energy of Pride festivities, human rights events, and the unifying hum of a community coming together in ways only Pride can evoke. So, you can imagine our excitement to return to the archipelago nation a full twelve months later for Malta Pride, eager to discover what’s new and what’s enduring for LGBTQ+ OutThere travellers, and to see how this inclusive destination continues to evolve for all.
Malta has firmly established itself as a leader in LGBTQ+ rights in the Mediterranean, with progressive policies and strong legal protections. Its reputation as a forward-thinking, inclusive destination has grown exponentially… particularly after hosting the landmark EuroPride celebrations last year. But how much of the EuroPride legacy still pulses through the streets of Valletta, St. Julian’s, Gozo, and beyond, a year later?
When we arrived in Malta for EuroPride 2023, we truly felt the love. Politicians, activists, drag queens, and everyday people – along with their families and allies – raised their voices in unison to showcase Malta’s unwavering commitment to human rights. And even after the event, during the quieter winter months, the island didn’t simply return to ‘normal’. Instead, it moved forward.
The buzz of last year’s celebrations still lingers but in a more grounded, community-focused way. Walking down Republic Street in Valletta, we spot rainbow murals and flags adorning cafes and storefronts. Some are from last year, freshly repainted; others are brand new for this year’s Malta Pride. It’s a visual and heartwarming reminder that Malta’s LGBTQ+ community is woven into the fabric of everyday life and that the true spirit of Pride isn’t confined to a weekend in September; it’s part of the island’s cultural identity, year-round.
Our memories serve us well as we take the same shortcuts as locals, winding through Valletta’s labyrinthine streets to return to our favourite night-spot: Café Society. This cocktail bar spills out onto the steps of Triq San Gwann in the heart of the old city, buzzing late into the summer night. It’s still as much fun as ever, the perfect place to mingle with queer Maltese locals and visitors alike. Originally conceived by the Electro Swing Malta trio – Mike Carbone, Tom Devenish and Alex Spiteri Gingell – as a space to enjoy music, Café Society sets the tone for what feels like an LGBTQ+ revolution in Malta post-EuroPride. The bar has undeniably evolved into Valletta’s de facto queer watering hole. Today, the rainbow flag that flew in celebration of EuroPride last year now flutters above its door year-round. Conversations with the staff reveal that business – and its sound system – are booming, and this ‘queer-friendly’ vibe has become an integral part of Malta’s tourism offering.
Malta’s scene has only become more exciting. While venues like Maori in Valletta, Michaelangelo in St. Julian’s, and the avant-garde Lollipop parties have long been part of the queer tourist trail, the growing queer-friendly sentiment has likely inspired other venues to become more open-minded, cosmopolitan and creative.
A new gem is Kuch Kuch, tucked away under the rainbow-lit Mercury Tower in St. Julian’s, Malta’s tallest and most contemporary building designed by Zaha Hadid Architects. This eclectic cocktail bar fuses Indian pop culture with Western aesthetics, offering experimental cocktails in custom-made vessels, all in an intimate and eccentric setting. The crowd is stylish, the drinks are Instagram-worthy and we even spotted a few local queer celebrities (#IYKYK).
In Valletta, Fiftynine Republic, located in historic St. George’s Square (where the Malta Pride concert takes place after the parade), has become one of the island’s most talked-about restaurants. With its innovative, seasonal menu – featuring crab pockets, lobster arancini, asiago ravioli, and crispy pork baos – it celebrates both traditional Maltese flavours and global influences. The atmosphere is chic yet intimate, with food served on vibrant pink plates in equally plush, blush chairs. We made the most of the alfresco seating in the square overlooking the Grandmaster’s Palace.
We also return to Gracy’s Arts and Supper Club, just across the street from Fiftynine Republic in a baroque palazzo. We celebrated EuroPride there last year at a VIP reception on its rooftop, though we were too distracted by the delicious cocktails to eat much. This time, we made up for it. Gracy’s is a culinary delight, offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. The plant-based options are top-notch (vegans, take note) and the staff create a warm, attentive atmosphere, making every guest feel welcome.
In the outdoor nightclub ‘village’ of Gianpula, we dance until the early hours at a post-Malta Pride party: Love Hearts, hosted by NERVE. Throughout the year, NERVE curates a series of queer parties influenced by pop culture, fashion and the Y2K era. The atmosphere at the party is electric, and it feels like everyone is free to be their true selves. Set in the expansive outdoor venue of Marrakech, the party pulses with vibrant energy as a diverse crowd of LGBTQ+ revellers dance under the stars to high-energy DJs and acrobatic, international drag queens. People from all backgrounds have come together, their love and pride palpable in every smile, kiss and dance move.
Beyond the parties and dining, the subtle changes stand out the most. In St. Julian’s, businesses – especially accommodation providers – are embracing a more integrated approach to queer tourism. The InterContinental Malta, an IHG Hotel, has long been known for its international, welcoming approach to hospitality but it’s refreshing to see so many LGBTQ+ travellers staying here during Pride. As one of Malta’s more versatile, upscale options – boasting its unique Skybeach concept and fantastic executive lounge – it’s easy to see why. But what sets it apart is the hotel’s commitment to inclusion, with ongoing staff training and queer programming for guests, making it a valued part of Malta’s LGBTQ+ tourism community and showing just how it values LGBTQ+ travellers.
For those seeking a more immersive cultural experience, Malta also boasts a year-round Valletta Queer History Tour. This walking tour, run by Q Travel Malta, guides visitors through the capital’s rich queer history, from the country’s early LGBTQ+ activism to its modern-day acceptance of gender and sexual diversity. The tour has quickly become one of the island’s top queer attractions, offering a fascinating lens on Malta’s evolution from conservative Catholicism to one of Europe’s most progressive nations. It also sheds light on the untold stories of queer individuals who lived in the city throughout that time. OutThere travellers can also combine this with a food tour, or book a similar tour in the Three Cities, Mdina, or Rabat. A new tour this year – From Stigma to Empowerment: A Women’s History Tour of Valletta – takes a deep dive into the remarkable role of women in shaping the city’s past and present.
Beyond Pride
While Malta Pride is a major draw for LGBTQ+ travellers, Malta has much to offer year-round. Its attraction lies in its ability to cater to every type of OutThere traveller, from those seeking secluded coves for a quiet swim or dive, to history buffs eager to explore ancient monuments, architecture and culture.
Visitors can explore the highlights of the island of Gozo (just a short ferry ride from Malta) by tuk-tuk with Yippee (ours this year was led by a gay Dutch driver who moved to Gozo with his partner years ago and never left). Foodies can feast on the freshest seafood at award-winning seaside restaurants like Il Kartell in Marsalforn (Gozo) or Tartarun in Marsaxlokk. A gorgeous afternoon can be spent in the vineyards at one of Malta’s fabulous wineries, like Ta’Betta. For a unique Maltese experience, spend a summer afternoon on a boat trip in the stunning Blue Lagoon off Comino, or the Blue Grotto, or take a traditional Maltese ‘dgħajsa’ ride through the Grand Harbour.
A trip to Malta is a journey into the heart of a place where nature, beauty, history and freedom converge. The island invites you to step into a world where ancient stones whisper stories of resilience and the Mediterranean sun reflects the warmth of a people whose spirit is as enduring as the land itself. In Malta, you’ll find not only the vibrant pulse of modern life but also the quiet echoes of a rich, diverse past. It’s a reminder that the most profound experiences come not just from the places we visit, but from the connections we make, the stories we share and the joy of truly being in a place that welcomes us wholeheartedly.
EuroPride may have been a moment in time, but its impact has been lasting. The momentum created has carried Malta into a new era of visibility, inclusivity and celebration for LGBTQ+ travellers. With each passing year, the island grows into a destination that is not just queer-friendly, but queer-forward.
We must also acknowledge the profound impact EuroPride had on the local community, as Malta continues to build on its inclusivity… not only in what it offers LGBTQ+ visitors but also through progressive legislation and the acceptance and celebration of its queer citizens and residents.
So for us, the allure of Malta continues to be its inclusion. The fusion of LGBTQ+ culture with the island’s historical narrative gives Malta authenticity, making it a place where everyone can belong. Whether you’re returning for the parties, the history, or the sheer joy of being on a holiday where you’re seen and accepted, it’s clear that Malta is a destination that welcomes you always, whoever you are.
We flew to Malta on British Airways, which has daily flights that take around 3 hours between Gatwick to Malta, year-round, with up to 10 flights per week in the summer (May to October). Club Europe (Business Class) fares include generous checked luggage, Fast Track security, lounge access and complimentary meals and drinks onboard. www.ba.com/malta
Photography by Martin Perry and Uwern Jong
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This article is in partnership with Visit Malta.
To help plan your next trip to Malta and Gozo, speak to your travel advisor or head to www.visitmalta.com
