The beautiful country just like a Greek island but much less crowded and 26C in October

As the UK settles into grey skies and drizzle, one sun-soaked Mediterranean gem is offering the perfect autumn escape, with sunshine, culture and crystal-clear seas, all without the crowds of its more famous neighbours.

Malta, sitting just over three hours from London by plane, is being hailed as an ideal October destination. While Greece, Italy and Croatia may be overrun with tourists in summer, Malta keeps its laid-back charm well into autumn, with daytime highs of 24-26C and sea temperatures hovering around 23-24C.

The island is compact, you can cross it in under an hour, but it packs in sandy beaches, medieval towns, fishing villages and even prehistoric temples older than the pyramids.

Its capital, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Europe's smallest capitals, perfect for wandering on foot among 17th-century fortifications, Baroque churches and stunning harbour views.

History lovers can explore the silent city of Mdina, once the island's medieval capital and a filming location for Game of Thrones, while foodies can tuck into stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), Malta's national dish, in family-run restaurants.

The sister islands of Gozo and Comino are just a short ferry ride away. Gozo offers rolling countryside, quaint villages and the famous Blue Hole diving site, while Comino is home to the Blue Lagoon - one of the most photogenic swimming spots in the Med.

Best of all, Malta remains excellent value for money. Its extensive bus network makes it easy to get around for just a couple of euros, while ferries to Gozo and Comino are cheap and frequent. Mid-range hotels, affordable eateries and local cafes mean visitors can enjoy an authentic slice of Maltese life without breaking the bank.

And unlike hotspots such as Santorini or Dubrovnik, Malta's towns are lived-in rather than staged for tourists, meaning travellers can enjoy a more genuine cultural experience.

For Brits looking for warmth, culture and stunning scenery without summer's crowds or prices, Malta is proving to be the perfect October getaway.