Malta: The Gold Standard for Gay Friendliness

Malta has snagged the gold—or rather, rainbow—once again. For the 8th time running, this tiny country in the Mediterranean has clinched the #1 spot on ILGA-Europe's Rainbow Index, which rates 49 European countries on their LGBTQ+ equality laws and policies.

Outranking major destinations like Germany, Spain, and the UK, Malta proves that great things come in small packages. But how did this tiny country take big strides when it comes to gay rights?

Malta’s Rainbow Rights

Malta has demonstrated a long history of establishing strong legal protections for the LGBTQ+ community. Same-sex sexual activity has been legal in the country since January 1973. In 2002, Malta enabled gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender individuals to serve openly in the military.

In 2004, Malta banned discrimination nationwide based on sexual orientation and gender identity and expression. The country enhanced rights further in April 2014 by becoming the first European state to add gender identity to its Constitution as a protected category.

Building on this constitutional protection, Malta enacted the Gender Identity, Gender Expression, and Sex Characteristics Act. This Act is among the most progressive internationally, permitting transgender people to legally change gender without medical interventions. It also bans surgeries on intersex infants.

After first establishing same-sex civil unions in April 2014, Malta made news by legalising same-sex marriage in 2017. This confers full marital rights to same-sex couples, including adoption.

Additionally, in December 2016 Malta became the first European country to criminalise conversion therapy, recognising the severe harm the practice causes.

With such comprehensive legislative support for LGBTI people spanning nearly 50 years, it is not surprising Malta has ranked number one on the ILGA-Europe Rainbow Index for eight consecutive years.

A Premier Gaycation Destination

Malta’s broad legal protections and the locals’ welcoming attitude paved the way for one-of-a-kind venues to emerge across hotspots like the capital city Valletta and the neighbouring Sliema. Here, a glimmering array of hotels roll out the rainbow carpet for vacationers.

Visitors can opt to stay at gay-friendly hotels including a smattering of luxurious lodgings from AX Privilege Group across the island country, the harbourfront Grand Hotel Excelsior, or the state-of-the-art rooms at Iniala Harbour House.

Cugó Gran Macina Grand Harbour offers an exclusive experience, with only 21 spacious suites and onsite wellness treatments, while the Seaview Hotel in St. Paul’s Bay provides a different kind of exclusivity as an adult-only accommodation.

By day, beach bums bask in the dazzling azure waters of Malta’s famous Blue Lagoon on the island of Comino or explore the medieval fortified city of Mdina, a gorgeous Game of Thrones backdrop.

By night, the island’s vibrant gay nightlife switches on, with unique bars like The Thirsty Barber channeling prohibition-era New York speakeasy vibes. Other hotspots include NERVE nightclub spotlighting Malta's top drag and queer talent, the long-running gay dance club Michelangelo, the lively Lollipop parties, and the Maori's relaxed happy hours complete with sea views.

These meticulously crafted LGBTQ tourist experiences also made Malta the ideal host location for EuroPride 2023. Attended by over 38,000 pride pilgrims this past year, the nation has proven itself as a premier rainbow destination.

All these places and experiences prove that Malta has mastered the art of weaving together vibrant nightlife, idyllic relaxation, and heritage sightseeing, making the country the perfect gay getaway.

Malta and the Rest of Europe

Malta undoubtedly sets the gold standard for LGBTQ+ protections continentally.

Its comprehensive legal framework is a testament to the nation's commitment to equality and human rights. Unlike many others, Malta has robust constitutional safeguards and a firm stance against conversion therapy. This dedication to inclusivity and protection underlines Malta's unique position in championing the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. The country's approach serves as an inspiring model, demonstrating what can be achieved through progressive legislation and a strong commitment to equality for all.

Visit Malta

Malta has firmly established itself as the pinnacle destination in Europe for LGBTQ+ holidaymakers thanks to its gold-standard legislative protections, constitutional rights and nearly a decade topping ILGA’s Rainbow Index.

With such an unparalleled foundation upholding equality, Malta promises to shine perpetually as a premier queer vacation venue for decades onward. And you don’t want to experience FOMO, do you?

Plan your Malta trip with the help of Travel Gay! Book your hotel, check out which beaches to add to your itinerary, and prepare with the help of our cultural guide to Malta.