A look at gay life in Malta
Over the past few years, Malta has fast-tracked its way to become one of the most progressive countries in Europe in terms of rights for the LGBTIQ community. This sentiment is also shared by the majority of the population, which has embraced the progress experienced with open arms. So, as such, Malta is a safe, open and accepting country with laws that protect gay, lesbian and trans travellers to the islands.
While all venues in Malta are LGBTIQ-friendly, including clubs and restaurants, there are three clubs that cater predominantly to members of the LGBTIQ community.
AXM Club on St George’s Road in Paceville is by far the most popular, with a monthly Lollipop party being among its most anticipated night outs. (To find out when the next edition is, we suggest you follow them up on Facebook!)
Just a stone’s throw away, Michelangelo on St Rita Steps, St. Julian’s, is open Monday to Sunday, and sometimes host local singers, with Claudia Faniello – the 2016 winner of the Malta Eurovision Song Contest – being the latest addition to the list. Meanwhile, on the outskirts of Valletta, you’ll find Monaliza Lounge, a chilled bar-come-disco which is often less busy than the other two clubs.
In Malta, there are no designated ‘gay beaches’, however there are a number of beaches which the local LGBTIQ community tend to frequent, including Riviera Bay in the north west and Mgiebah in Selmun.
Meanwhile, dating apps in Malta are as popular as anywhere else, with Grindr, Tinder and Planet Romeo being the most popular. Due to the country’s size, your match may live on the other side of the island, but that’s rarely more than a 30-minute taxi-ride away!
So, to sum it all up: Malta is as safe and friendly as they come for the LGBTIQ community, and you’re in for a fantastic time, whether you’re here with your partner, friends, or alone and looking to meet new people!
