Malta's character owes much to the diverse cultures that have left traces here at various points throughout its history. Highly coveted because of their central location amid trade routes, the islands have seen periods of Roman, Arab, French, and British rule, as well as a golden age under the Knights of St. John, who built many of Valletta's stunning baroque-style buildings and cathedrals. Malta is now an independent republic and a member of the European Union; you'll find that English (as well as Italian) is commonly spoken.

While the package doesn't include any activities, FIT offers a slew of optional tours. For example, you can take a harbor cruise to the natural ports of Marsamxett and the Grand Harbour, join an excursion to the Blue Grotto cave, or tour the three historical cities, Senglea, Cospicua, and Vittoriosa. (Half-day tours run from $59-$69 per person; full-day tours are from $105-$121 per person.)

Marsamxett Harbour, Valletta, Malta (Nicholas Pitt/Getty) [enlarge photo]

Not ready to leave? You can extend your stay at the Victoria Hotel Sliema for an additional $75 per person per night. Another option is to book an alternate FIT package, Malta Grand Tour, which covers airfare, six nights' accommodations and three half-day tours and one full-day excursion, from $1,499.

Before you go, visit the official tourism site for Malta.

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