Malta’s capital city, Valletta, has achieved a historic recognition by being named the Number One City in the World in Condé Nast Traveller’s prestigious Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, just one day after it was crowned Europe’s Best City. This remarkable back-to-back recognition places Valletta at the pinnacle of the world’s most admired destinations.
Each year, Condé Nast Traveller’s Readers’ Choice Awards honour the world’s most exceptional destinations and experiences as chosen by the publication’s discerning readers. In 2025, more than 182,500 travellers shared their insights, recognising Valletta as a city that perfectly captures the essence of cultural authenticity, historical depth, and contemporary vibrancy.
Immense Pride and Responsibility
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Hon. Ian Borg, stated:
“Valletta’s recognition as the best city in the world, coming immediately after being named Europe’s Best City, fills us with immense pride and gratitude, but also an immense responsibility - to continue doing our utmost to protect and enrich this Mediterranean gem. This global honour celebrates our capital’s beauty and heritage. It reflects Malta’s determination to improve its tourism offering, attracting visitors who value culture, authenticity, and meaningful experiences. Valletta embodies these values completely: a city that tells a story at every corner, with layers of history and contemporary expressions, welcoming visitors to unique experiences every day.”
Mr. Carlo Micallef, CEO of the Malta Tourism Authority, commented:
“This achievement positions Valletta, and by extension Malta, at the very heart of the world’s tourism map. To receive two consecutive global recognitions in just two days is a profound endorsement of our collective effort to deliver a tourism product distinguished by quality, depth, and genuine experience. Valletta’s success is the result of years of investment in culture, heritage, and hospitality, transforming the city into a living showcase of Maltese identity. As we celebrate this milestone, our focus remains on cultivating a sustainable tourism model that prioritises excellence, enriches our communities, and offers every traveller an unforgettable connection to Malta.”
A Destination of Quality
Valletta’s twin triumph, as both Europe’s and the World’s Best City, stands as a shining testament to Malta’s enduring appeal and the dedication of its people in shaping a destination that continues to inspire, captivate, and welcome the world.
Building on this remarkable global recognition, Valletta’s momentum on the world stage will continue to grow next year as the city prepares to host the 26th edition of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Global Summit, the largest tourism event ever held in the Maltese Islands. Taking place from September 30th to October 2nd, 2026, the summit will further strengthen Valletta’s reputation as a leading centre for international dialogue on the evolution of travel and tourism. It will convene global leaders from both the public and private sectors to exchange perspectives on the industry’s future, with particular emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and investment, underscoring Malta’s continued commitment to advancing a tourism sector that contributes meaningfully to global prosperity and cooperation.
The full list of Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 – Best Cities in the World winners can be found online here.
