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Thanks to a route recently introduced by KM Malta Airlines, the national airline of Malta, two jewels of southern Europe are linked with a new option for nonstop flights between a fascinating island and a cosmopolitan metropolis. Having begun operations last year, KM Malta has gently expanded its route network in a slow but steady increase in service to and from cities across Europe. Major destinations served by KM Malta, such as London, Paris, and Rome, are complemented by flights to smaller cities such as Vienna, Catania, and Lyon, which are no less important, if not as significant, in population.

The new service between Istanbul and Malta provides the tantalising prospect of combining the exhilaration of one of the world’s greatest cities with the laid-back lifestyle of a Mediterranean island in full bloom as a destination for upscale travellers. Like Malta, Istanbul’s long and storied past has endowed the city with a plethora of beautiful sights to see and exciting experiences to enjoy. Of course, the most famous attractions such as Topkapı Palace, Ayasofya, and the Blue Mosque are worth a visit, especially for first-time visitors. Still, other places in Türkiye’s largest city are similarly beautiful yet remain off the radar for the average tourist. The lack of crowds in less famous places adds to the enjoyment of Sokollu Mehmet Paşa Mosque, where the genius of revered Imperial Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan and Türkiye’s splendid Iznik tiles are on full display. Located in the Fatih district’s Kadırga neighbourhood, adjacent to Sultanahmet, the area around the mosque is an earthier Istanbul than the more touristy areas in Sultanahmet and Taksim. As its name implies, a short stroll away is Küçük Ayasofya Mosque, a smaller version of the more famous building but no less worthy of a visitor’s attention. The stone, tile, carpets, and decorative objects were all well planned hundreds of years ago; as seen in this splendid building, their harmonious presence is quite impressive.

: The Blue Mosque

: Sultan Mehmed II the Conqueror monument.

: Yeni Mosque ceiling detail

While the sultans made Topkapı Palace into a showpiece of Turkish architecture and interior design, those same elements are found in the little-known Hünkâr Kasrı next to the stunning Yeni Mosque. Hünkâr Kasrı was the private lounge for the sultans before and after prayers at the mosque; thanks to its regal construction and decor, it can easily be mistaken for another wing of Topkapı Palace. Also part of the Yeni Mosque complex is Hatice Turhan Valide Sultan Türbesi, where royal bodies rest peacefully, elaborately cloaked under a beautiful ceiling. Another mosque complex popular with visitors is the Sülemaniye Camii complex, a set of buildings that includes the mausoleum of Suleiman the Magnificent. Sited on a hill, the extensive grounds of Süleymaniye Camii attract visitors for the views and its historical importance, here at one of Mimar Sinan’s most acclaimed works.

: Hünkâr Kasrı’s beautiful interior

: Iznik tilework inside Hünkâr Kasrı

Meanwhile, the islands of Malta also offer an array of grand buildings to admire. Malta’s entire capital, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its abundance and preservation of its graceful architecture. St John’s Co-Cathedral is one of the most astounding buildings in the world, every surface covered in art of some sort, from the marble inlay floors to the decorated walls and ceiling. Other attractions include the Manoel Theatre, the Grand Master’s Palace, and the many narrow streets evocative of centuries past. Excellent restaurants abound between the popular bars and cafés where locals and visitors enjoy the Mediterranean climate and lifestyle. KM Malta Airlines flights between MLA and IST are a mere two hours and thirty minutes; lucky are those who can now combine the exuberance of Istanbul with the relaxed vibe of Valletta. The Visit Malta website contains information about the country’s sights and activities.